PAUL CARRACK DANUBE RIVER CRUISE

23 - 30 JULY 2022

Are you ‘Good and Ready’ for this incredible voyage? Casting off in enchanting Passau and taking in Regensburg, Linz, Vienna, Bratislava, and the delightful UNESCO World Heritage city of Budapest, this is a one-off opportunity to combine superb scenery, fascinating city sights and memorable cultural experiences with luxurious accommodation, gourmet food, free-flowing quality wines and fabulous after dinner entertainment from “the man with the golden voice” – Paul Carrack. One of the most revered voices in music and a figurehead of soulful pop for decades, Paul will join us for 3 after-dinner concerts during this once in a lifetime holiday, aboard the stunning river cruise ship, MS Cara, the newest addition to the Amadeus fleet.
With only 160 guests on board, this is certain to be the highlight of 2022 for many. An incredible opportunity for fans to enjoy, up close and personal, the legendary music of Paul Carrack, whilst exploring one of the most attractive rivers in Europe, the beautiful blue Danube. Paul will perform 3 concerts on board during this 7 night sailing.

If you're not ready to book but have further questions then please feel free to email us at info@harmonyvoyages.co.uk and we'll be happy to help

What's included
  • Large, outside river-view staterooms, most with French balconies or walk-out balconies
  • Free-flowing red & white wines from Europe’s famous wine regions, beer & soft drinks with every lunch and dinner onboard
  • Gourmet dining onboard
  • Entertainment every night including 3 concerts from Paul Carrack on board
  • Services of an experienced English-speaking onboard Cruise Director
  • 24-hour coffee station
  • Bottled water in every stateroom
  • In-stateroom infotainment centre
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
  • Complimentary use of onboard bicycles
  • Complimentary state-of-the-art audio headsets for optional excursions
  • All local taxes & port charges
  • Airport transfer to / from ship on 23.07.22 and 30.07.22 (additional transfer cost for extended stays if required)
  • Choice of bed configuration – King or Twin bed
  • Cabins on Haydn deck feature a connecting door – on request
  • Mini bar in all cabins (except C1 & C4)
  • Dress Code throughout will be smart casual / no formal nights. Flights to Munich and back from Budapest are not included. This gives you the flexibility to extend your stay pre / post cruise if you wish and travel to / from the airport of your choice. We are happy to assist with flight bookings as well as pre / post cruise stays, please contact us to discuss your personal requirements.
Itinerary

DAY 1 JULY 23 – EMBARKATION PASSAU
Depart Passau 18:00. Please note: The last transfer time from Munich Airport will be 15:00

    • This afternoon, embark your floating Hotel, Amadeus Cara and get settled into your cabin. During the evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail, followed by a specially-prepared welcome dinner.
    • Enjoy your first concert with Paul Carrack this evening, in the lounge after dinner.

DAY 2 JULY 24 – REGENSBURG

Arrive 09:30 depart 20:00

Optional Excursions: Regensburg walking tour / Weltenburg Abbey

    • This UNESCO site boasts architecture from many centuries, reflective of its varied history throughout the centuries. The stone bridge, built in 1135-1146, the Church of St James, and the Schloss of Thurn and Taxis are a few of the highlights of this beautiful city.
    • Back onboard this evening, enjoy your first concert with Nina Zella.

DAY 3 JULY 25 – PASSAU – LINZ

Arrive Passau 08:00 depart 10:00 / Arrive Linz 16:30 depart 22:00

Optional Excursions: Passau walking tour / Full day excursion to Salzburg / Linz walking tour Today, those interested in excursions have all of three options.

    • A morning walking tour through the Baroque centre of Passau will provide insight into the history of the town.
    • Alternatively, you can take part in a full day excursion in a comfortable tour bus, which will visit the Mozart town of Salzburg and the lake district of the Salzkammergut. Both excursions end in Linz, where you will return to your ship.
    • The guests who do not take the bus to Salzburg can spend the afternoon on their own or take a guided tour through this Upper Austrian town before the ship weighs anchor in the evening.
    • Enjoy another delicious dinner on board followed by music with Paul Carrack in the lounge.

DAY 4 JULY 26 – MELK – EMMERSDORF – VIENNA

Arrive Melk 08:00 depart 09:00 / Arrive Weissenkirchen 10:30 depart 16:00 / Arrive Vienna 21:30

Optional Excursions: Excursion to the Wachau including Melk Abbey and wine tasting

    • This morning presents an opportunity to visit the famous Benedictine Abbey of Melk which stands impressively over the Danube.
    • Alternatively, stay on board and sail to the town of Weissenkirchen. Here, sample some of the region’s famous Riesling wines or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the cobbled streets.
    • Everyone will re-join the ship in the early afternoon to continue on to Vienna.
    • Join Nina Zella in the lounge after dinner for your concert this evening.

DAY 5 JULY 27 – VIENNA

Stay in Vienna overnight

Optional Excursions: City tour of Vienna / Guided tour of Schonbrunn Palace / Concert ‘Sound of Vienna’

    • There is much to see in Vienna: its Imperial palaces, Museums Quarter with historic and contemporary buildings displaying works by Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt and other artists. The impressive buildings along the Ringstrasse, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the famous Vienna State Opera among many others.
    • This afternoon perhaps venture to Schönbrunn Palace, the sumptuous summer palace and gardens of Empress Maria Theresia and the Habsburg empire.
    • In the evening opt for the “Sound of Vienna” and listen to the “Alt Wien” orchestra play popular pieces from Vienna’s classical era. The vessel departs Vienna in the early hours.
    • Enjoy an evening at leisure or the optional "Sound of Vienna" concert.

DAY 6 JULY 28 – VIENNA – BRATISLAVA

Depart Vienna 03:00 arrive Bratislava 08:00 depart 22:00

      Optional Excursions: City tour of Bratislava / Excursion to Schloss Hof Palace and Estate
    • During the night, we will travel downriver towards Bratislava, arriving in the Slovakian capital at breakfast time.
    • In the morning, you can go exploring on your own or as part of a guided city tour.
    • It is worth visiting the Imperial Festschloss Hof in the afternoon, which was once the country residence of Empress Maria Theresia. Situated in Austria, not far from the Slovakian border.
    • After the Captain’s Gala Dinner, the ship will set sail for Hungary while you relax in the lounge for the final concert with Paul Carrack.

DAY 7 JULY 29 – ESZTERGOM – BUDAPEST

Arrive Esztergom 07:00 depart 08:30 / Arrive Budapest 13:00

Optional Excursions: Esztergom and Szentendre / City tour of Budpest

    • Relax onboard as we make our way to Budapest, Hungary.
    • For those interested in exploring the Hungarian countryside, spend the morning visiting Esztergom and its Basilica dedicated to Saint Mary, and Szentendre, known for its art galleries and museums.
    • After lunch, explore the beautiful Hungarian capital of Budapest. Uniquely straddling the Danube river, the Buda side with its Fisherman’s Bastion and the Pest Side with its famous Hungarian Parliament building, are connected by the beautiful Chain Bridge.
    • An evening cruise onboard along the illuminated skyline, accompanied by a traditional folklore show of music and dance, is a perfect ending to your visit.

DAY 8 JULY 30 – BUDAPEST

  • After breakfast we bid you farewell and a safe onward journey
  • Transfers to the airport will commence after breakfast. For those, leaving later in the day you will be permitted to leave your luggage onboard whilst you explore the city. Or if you are planning a day or two in Budapest, taxis can be arranged by the crew for you to your chosen hotel.
Price

Prices are per person and do not include flights. Please contact us if you require assistance with your travel arrangements.

Please note: a deposit of £200 per person is required to secure your booking. 

Contact us for latest availability T: 01254 476075 E: info@harmonyvoyages.co.uk

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Accommodation

MS Cara, the newest new ship to join the Amadeus fleet, offers a total of 73 spacious deluxe cabins and 12 AMADEUS Suites. The cabins on the Mozart and Strauss Deck also feature electronically lowerable panoramic windows, which extend across the entire cabin front and have been specially designed for the AMADEUS ships.

All the deluxe cabins and suites on board offer comfortable, spacious bathrooms, infotainment systems, flat screen television, telephone, cabin safe, minibar and air conditioning which can be individually regulated. Furthermore, the suites feature a comfortable corner sofa, luxurious bathroom and walk-out external balcony.








FAQ

Q: Are flights included?
A:
No, you are responsible for your own travel arrangements to and from the ship.  However, we are happy to assist with booking flights on your behalf.  Please contact us for details if you require assistance.

Q: Which airport do I need to fly into / home from?
A:
The ship departs from Passau at 18:00 on 23 July, so your arrival airport will be Munich Airport (MUC) and the cruise ends in Budapest.  The closest international airport is Budapest (BUD)  .

Q: Are airport transfers included?
A:
Transfers are included from Munich Airport to the ship on 23 July and from the ship to Budapest Airport on 30 July.

The last transfer time from the airport to the ship in Passau will be 15:00 on 23 July. Guests arriving into Munich a day or two prior to the ships departure are advised to make their way back to the airport for a transfer on 23 July.

Should you opt to extend your stay at the end of your cruise, you will be responsible for your own transfer to the airport.

Q: What time can I board the ship on Embarkation day?
A:
Embarkation is usually from 3pm.  You will be advised of the exact time in your final documents.

Q: What time is disembarkation from?
A:
As the ship has a quick turnaround, you will be required to vacate your cabin after breakfast on the day of departure.  If you have a late flight or transfer you may be able to store your luggage on board until later in the day, depending on the ship’s itinerary.  The crew on board will be happy to assist.

Q: Is there WiFi on board?
A: Yes, WiFi is provided in all public areas of the ship.  However, during the trip the signal may be weaker in certain sections of the route.

Q: Is there an elevator on board?
A:
All AMADEUS ships have a guest elevator, which operates between the Mozart and Haydn decks.
The sun deck is not accessible by elevator.

Q: What is the dress code on board?
A: We want to you feel comfortable on board, the dress code is casual during the day and in the evening smart casual.  Think what would I wear for a meal out in a restaurant at home?

Q: What is the electrical current on board?
A: The voltage in hotels and onboard ship is 230V, European standard.  To use any electrical product that is not dual voltage (e.g. from the US, Canada, Australia or the UK), you will need a plug adaptor and some devices will require an electrical converter.  Many electronic devices have built-in electrical converters, however, please check the manufacturer’s specifications for details.  A two-pole adaptor is also available at reception.

Q: Mooring and Docking
A: Local river authorities allocate docking space around ship arrivals and departures in port. Occasionally port conditions require ships to tie up alongside each other, in which case guests may be required to walk through another ship to access their own ship.  This is part of the river cruise experience and is perfectly normal and beyond our control.  Guests may experience obstructed views from staterooms when the ship is docked.

Q: What is the currency on board the ship?
A: The currency on board all AMADEUS ships is EURO However, you may also settle your account in (GBP) Sterling or (USD) American Dollars.

Q: What is the difference between the Category C4 & C1 cabins on Haydn Deck and the B4 & B1 cabins on Strauss deck?
A: The last four cabins on both Haydn Deck & Strauss Deck can occasionally be subject to propeller noise in low water conditions. Therefore, these cabins are sold at a lower price than the other cabins on those decks. Otherwise, cabin layout and size are identical.

Q: What about gratuities?
A: Gratuities for the ship’s staff and crew are not included in your cruise price. Whilst gratuities are a matter of personal choice, we are often asked what the suggested amount would be - 11 EUR per person per day.
Alternately you may wish to tip onboard in cash or add a gratuity to your onboard account.
Gratuities for drivers and guides for optional excursions are not included in the excursion price. A suggested amount is 1-2 EUR per person for half day excursion & 2-3 EUR per person for the full day excursion given directly to the guide and driver.

Q: Is this cruise suitable for someone with a mobility disability?
A:
As the lift on board does not operate to the sun deck level, all passengers would need to be mobile enough to access the sun-deck via the steps.

Occasionally the ship may have to moor up alongside another ship and guests may be required to disembark via the sun deck. Effectively, walking across the sundeck on MS Cara and across the sun deck of the neighbouring ship to the gang plank on the opposite side by the mooring.  Ability to climb the steps on both sides will be necessary.

What to pack:
The following items are essential for any destination: sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, and maybe an umbrella.  It is recommended that you bring duplicates of prescription eye wear, copies of prescriptions for any medications (generic equivalents are usually easier to obtain), copies of credit card information, and copies of your passport information pages.

An adaptor/transformer may be necessary (the on-board power supply is 230V AC/50 Hz) if you bring any electronic devices with you.

Clothing:
Comfortable, casual clothing is appropriate both onshore and onboard and we suggest lightweight clothing that can be layered.  Shorts are appropriate for most tours; however long pants may be required for inside visits on some excursions.  Your cruise manager will advise when and if this is required.  You may find a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore.
We recommend comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support.  Sturdy sandals are another good option.

Don’t forget to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) or even a heavier-weight wind-breaker for cooler temperatures.  Also, keep in mind that the ship, coaches, and other venues visited on our itinerary are air conditioned and may be quite cool.  We recommend that you pack a lightweight sweater or long sleeve shirts and carry them with you on excursions.

Excursions

On all our excursions you’ll be provided with a wireless AMADEUS listening device. The receiver can be worn quite comfortably around the neck or carried in a bag. The comfortable headphones allow you to hear your experienced tour guide’s explanations with the very best acoustic quality. Enjoy complete freedom of movement, without missing any of the interesting commentary. 

Important Information:

  • All excursions can be booked in advance or aboard. (For organisational reasons, some excursions can only be booked aboard).
  • Minimum participation for excursions by bus: 20 people.
  • Minimum participation for excursions on foot: 12 people.
  • The schedule of individual excursions can vary; this is partly due to the volume of traffic in the cities and the opening hours of facilities.
  • Please remember to wear sturdy shoes as well as comfortable, waterproof clothing when attending the excursions.
  • When exploring on your own, please remember to return to the vessel in time for its departure. If you miss the departure, you have to travel to the next port at your own expense. You will find the all aboard time in the daily programme.
  • Itineraries and prices are subject to alterations.

Walking Grade:

Some excursions involve a fair amount of walking, sometimes over uneven surfaces. The following coding system has been used to assist with identifying which excursions are appropriate for you. Please ask your cruise director for additional information as required.

  • LEVEL 1: Minimum walking; excursion by bus with short photo stops.
  • LEVEL 2: The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
  • LEVEL 3: The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.
  • LEVEL 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
  • LEVEL 5: Considerable walk with longer distances. This may include uneven surfaces and some stairs.

 

REGENSBURG WALKING TOUR

Regensburg is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Germany with its impressive historic buildings. Among these architectural treasures are churches, monasteries, the town hall and one of Europe’s oldest bridges that has spanned the Danube since the 12th century. During this walk you will feel the former power and wealth of this city, which once controlled the trade route to the Orient. During a short visit to the Regensburg Cathedral, dedicated to St. Peter, you can admire this masterpiece of Gothic architecture in southern Germany. (Visits depend on the opening hours and the celebration of mass).

Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Walking Grade: 4 - Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.


EXCURSION TO WELTENBURG ABBEY

A coach brings you to Weltenburg, with a brief detour to the “Hall of Liberation”, a historical, classical monument on Mount Michels­berg, above the city of Kelheim. This impressive marble building is fashioned after the Parthenon in Athens. It towers high above the Danube and can be seen from afar. Afterwards, board an excursion boat which will take you past the former city of the Wittelsbacher Dynasty and through the nature reserve “Weltenburger Enge” to the Benedictine abbey of Weltenburg. The monastery, founded by Irish or Scottish monks in about 620 AD, is the oldest monastery in Bavaria. After a short tour of the abbey church taste the famous dark beer of Weltenburg, which is brewed here in the oldest monastery brewery in the world. 

Duration: approx. 5 hrs
Walking Grade: 3 - The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.


EXCURSION TO THURN& TAXIS CASTLE WITH BREWERY & TASTING

Enjoy beautiful and unforgettable hours in the historic Palais Thurn and Taxis. The guided tour shows you the beautiful marble staircase in the south wing of the castle, which leads to the magnificent rooms of the Monarchs residence. Guests are traditionally welcomed at the foot of the impressive staircase. The entire neo-renaissance interior is inspired by Roman antiquity. Afterwards you walk to the traditional brewery at the castle, where you can expect a short tour and have the opportunity afterwards to taste a glass of beer and a typical Bavarian pretzel.

Duration: approx. 3.5hrs

Walking Grade: 3 - The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.


PASSAU WALKING TOUR

Join us on a gorgeous walk through the old city of Passau. The baroque city on three rivers has long been a magnet for traders and travellers. It will astonish you from your first moments in its winding streets. In the heart of the Old Town lies our most known site — St. Stephen’s Cathedral, often known as a Baroque cathedral with a Gothic soul. The impressive pipe organ helps make St. Stephen’s a true highlight of our three river city. High above the Old Town sits one of the largest fortress complexes in all Europe — the Veste Oberhaus which can be discovered on your own at the end of the walking tour. Accessible via the exterior walls, never conquered, never completely destroyed; it is a prime example of long term historical construction.

Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Walking Grade: 5 - Considerable walk with longer distances. This may include uneven surfaces and some stairs.


FULL-DAY EXCURSION TO SALZBURG WITH SALZKAMMERGUT AND LUNCH

A two-hour coach ride will bring you to Salzburg — the city of music. The old town with its world-famous Baroque architecture is one of the best-preserved city centres north of the Alps. It was adopted by UNESCO in 1997 and is included on its list of World Cultural Heritage Sites. During the guided tour through the old town you will see the birth house of Mozart (exterior only), as well as other well-known attractions, such as the ‘Getreidegasse‘ and the gorgeous cathedral of the town and the area of the Salzburg festival.

After enjoying an included lunch, head to the picturesque village of Mondsee, best known as a film location for the famous movie “The Sound of Music”. Enjoy the beautiful scenery as you return to the ship.

Duration: approx. 9.5 hrs
Walking Grade: 3 - The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs


LINZ WALKING TOUR

Discover the upper Austrian state capital Linz on a walking tour. It was a provincial and local government city of the Holy Roman Empire, and an important trade centre, connecting several trade routes. As the city where the Habsburg Emperor Friedrich III spent his last years, it was, for a short period of time, the most important city in the Empire. It lost its status to Vienna and Prague after the death of the Emperor in 1493. There are many things worth seeing in Linz. Take a stroll down the main street, which leads to the main square. In addition to the medieval town square in the historic old town and the Mozarthaus, you can see Baroque bourgeois family houses, the old cathedral with the Bruckner organ or the new cathedral. Visits depend on Cathedral and Mass openings/times. Visible from afar is the pilgrimage basilica on the mountain Poestling, the landmark of the town. A modern counterpart are the Lentos art museum and the Ars Electronica Center, with its striking glass facade. If time allows, explore the local bakeries for a taste of the famous Linzer Torte (Linzer Cake). Afterwards, your coach takes you to rejoin the ship in Aschach.

Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Walking Grade: 4 - Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.


EXCURSION TO MELK ABBEY

Melk Abbey is an Austrian Benedictine abbey and one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. The impressive Baroque abbey was built between 1702 and 1736 and is the biggest monastery complex of the Austrian Baroque period. The abbey’s church, with frescos by Johann Michael Rottmayr, and the impressive library with countless medieval manuscripts and frescos by Paul Troger are particularly noteworthy.

A guided tour takes you through the abbot’s chambers, along the imperator’s walk, through the marble hall, the balconies and the library.

Duration: approx. 2 hrs
Walking Grade: 3 - The excursion by bus is followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb some stairs


DURNSTEIN WALKING TOUR WITH VISIT TO DURNSTEIN ABBEY

Dürnstein is one of the most beautifully situated towns in the Wachau River Valley, nestled along the side of the Danube River amongst the many terraced vineyards. Your walking tour offers views of breath-taking scenery, traditional architecture and historic sights. Explore the picturesque old town, the city walls, the Prager Platz with a beautiful view of the castle ruins high above, where King Richard I was held captive by Leopold V, Duke of Austria after a dispute during the Third Crusade. Walk along the Clarissan Monastery to the Baroque Canons' Abbey, which was founded in 1410 and rebuilt in the baroque style in 1710. Enter through the monastery portal and discover the beautiful baroque courtyard as you explore the abbey. A highlight is the stunning view from the Danube terrace underneath the iconic blue tower visible from the Danube.

Duration: approx. 2hrs
Walking Grade: 4 – Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.


WINZER KREMS VINYARD & WINERY

The Wachau Valley is the heart of the Austrian wine region. During this excursion, visit a Krems wine estate and learn more about its origin, its history, its culture and its unique wine. The Krems winery unites 980 vineyards from Krems and the surrounding wine-growing villages. Embark on a journey through the variations of the noble grape and peak behind the scenes of the wine growing industry. Taste different wines of the region before returning to the ship.

Duration: approx. 3hrs
Walking Grade: 5 – Considerable walk that may include uneven surfaces and some stairs.


CITY TOUR OF VIENNA 

In previous centuries, Vienna was the imperial capital and residence of the Habsburg family and developed into a cultural and political centre of Europe, during this period. 

While it may take days or weeks to fully discover Vienna, this tour will introduce you to the most important sights Vienna has to offer. Begin with a panoramic drive along the famous Ringstrasse, passing several magnificent buildings like the stunning opera house, the parliament, the Court Theatre and Vienna’s imposing city hall. Continue with a guided walk through the city centre. Begin at the well-known Hofburg Imperial Palace, walk along the Kohl market and finish at Vienna’s iconic St. Stephen’s cathedral. Before returning to the ship, enjoy free time to explore the pedestrian area. 

Duration: approx. 3.5 hrs
Walking Grade: 2 - The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour.


GUIDED TOUR OF THE SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE

Travel by coach to one of the most beautiful sights of Vienna - Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens - declared a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. The reign of Maria Theresia signified the most splendid era for Schönbrunn. The castle and park were the centre of court and political life. Under the personal guidance of the Empress, it was remodelled and expanded to become a royal residence; a complex with a total of 1,441 rooms and halls was created. Visit many of the ceremonial rooms and walk around the beautifully designed gardens.

Duration: approx. 3.5 hrs
Walking Grade: 2 - The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour.


“SOUND OF VIENNA” CLASSICAL CONCERT

In the very place where Johann Strauss himself once directed his orchestra from his position as first violin, the true essence of Vienna’s classical music can once again be heard daily. The “Salonorchester Alt Wien”, one of the best-known interpreters of classical Viennese music, presents an evening full of Viennese charm with the lilting sound of waltzes, polkas, arias and duets, as well as operetta and piano concerto melodies. Accompanied by excellent opera vocalists and our enchanting ballet soloists, Vienna‘s classical music reveals itself as a living firework display for all the senses.

Duration: approx. 3 hrs
Minimum walking


CITY TOUR OF BRATISLAVA 

Get to know the capital of the young Slovakian Republic. The gorgeous old town has maintained its Gothic-Baroque style. The tour passes St. Martin’s Cathedral and the Grassalkovich Palace and continues up to the hill above the old town, where you will have a stunning, panoramic view of the city and surrounding areas. Afterwards, a guided walking tour leads you through the restored old town. From Michael’s Gate you will take a leisurely stroll through the historic city centre, where you can admire sights such as the Primatial Palace and St. Martin’s Cathedral, a former coronation cathedral for Hungarian kings, as well as the Academia Istropolitana, the oldest university of the city, which dates back to the 15th century. In addition to numerous palaces, you will also see the main square with the old City Hall, the Opera House and Maximilian Fountain.

Duration: approx. 3 hrs
Walking Grade: 2 - The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.


GUIDED TOUR OF THE IMPERIAL PALACE HOF

From Bratislava the coach takes you to the Palace Hof in Austria. The magnificent complex was built in the early 18th century through the efforts of two of the most important personalities of the Austrian Baroque period. Field Marshall Prince Eugene of Savoy was already a legend in his lifetime. An art enthusiast, he provided almost unlimited funding for the construction of the castle. The brilliant architect Lucas von Hildebrandt created a virtuoso masterpiece comprising a magnificent palace, beautifully designed, terraced gardens and an idyllic country estate. Under its subsequent owner, Empress Maria Theresia, an additional storey was added to the palatial building, which was remodelled in the style of French Classicism in accordance with the tastes of the time. It is unique in Europe and has become a top destination for those who seek to delight in culture, nature and the fascinating world of the Baroque.

After visiting the inside of the castle, you will have enough free time to explore the beautiful and flowery garden and the Maierhof with its numerous animals.

Duration: approx. 5 hrs
Walking Grade: 2 - The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.


THE SMALL CARPATHIAN WINE ROUTE

Enjoy a beautiful drive through the Little Carpathian mountain range, a section of the Carpathian mountains. This protected forested mountain range stretches from Bratislava to the northeast for 62 miles. Dotted along the Little Carpathians are many wineries with a long winemaking tradition, dating back to the time of Celtic and Roman settlement. These villages, such as Sv. Jur (St. George), Pezinok or Modra supplied the royal court with good Little Carpathian wines since the Middle Ages. Along the Little Carpathians are also artisan towns with long traditions such as pottery and other handicrafts. On your return drive, enjoy a wine tasting of the local vintage in a wine cellar, where you will also learn about the history of wine growing in the Little Carpathians.

Duration: approx. 4.5hrs
Duration: Level 3 – The excursion is by bus, followed by a longer walk. You may need to climb several stairs.


EXCURSION TO ESZTERGOM AND SZENTENDRE

Esztergom, the former residence of the Hungarian kings and seat of the archbishop, is one of the highlights of this excursion. Your tour starts with a visit to the impressive, vast domed basilica, the largest cathedral in Hungary. Built in the early 19th century, it incorporates an ornate red marble chapel from an earlier church. After visiting the cathedral, the excursion continues along the Danube to the imposing ruined fortress of Visegrad where you have a glorious view of the “knee” of the Danube. Drive along the riverbank to the artists’ village of Szentendre. The town has been the home of many generations of Hungarian artists since the early 20th century. There are many museums and contemporary galleries representing the rich traditions of the visual arts. One of the most visited museums of the whole country, the Margit Kovács Museum, is also located here. Foetér, the main square, is particularly well worth seeing, as it is surrounded by impressive buildings from the time of the Rococo and the Baroque.

From Szentendre you continue south to Budapest along the scenic west bank of the Danube. The towns and villages along this stretch of the river are a popular retreat for the inhabitants of Budapest.

Duration: approx. 5 hrs


CITY TOUR OF BUDAPEST

Budapest, the “Queen of the Danube”, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and has managed to retain a charm of its own with the help of renovations in recent years. The Danube flows through the heart of the city, dividing it into two parts: Buda and Pest. The tour first takes you through Pest, past the Great Market Hall with its outstanding gourmet shops and stalls. You will see splendid Baroque buildings such as the Hungarian State Opera in Neo-Renaissance style and the incomparable parliament building, which was finished in 1904 and has been an emblem of the city ever since then. There’s an opportunity for a photo stop at the Heroes’ Square, famous for its monuments to many Hungarian kings. Continue across one of the seven bridges into Buda and go up to Castle Hill, where you will visit St. Matthew’s Church and the famous Fisherman’s Bastion (provided that it is open to the public). Enjoy the unforgettable view over the city before returning to the vessel.

Duration: approx. 3.5 hrs
Walking Grade: 2 - The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.

CLASSIC DANUBE - PASSAU TO BUDAPEST EXCURSIONS 2022 PRICES

Choose from a carefully curated selection of immersive and inspiring excursions. Select a package offered at a discounted rate when purchased in advance, or book individual shore excursions at regular rates on board your cruise.

UNLIMITED EXCURSION PACKAGE - £429pp

Enjoy the flexibility to choose any shore excursion from the ones listed below, at a discounted rate when purchased in advance. Create your personalised shore excursion program by choosing your favourite tours from the available options in each port. Save up to £113pp

INTRODUCTORY EXCURSION PACKAGE - £138pp

Introductory package of the following 5 pre-selected tours offered at a discounted rate when booked in advance and save £24 per person.

  • Regensburg walking tour
  • Visit to Melk Abbey
  • Highlights of Vienna
  • Bratislava – Beauty on the Danube
  • Budapest – Capital of Hungary

Additional excursions can be purchased on board at the following prices:

Regensburg walking tour

£ 17.00

Danube gorge and Weltenburg abbey with beer tasting

£ 57.00

OR Excursion Thurn & Taxis Castle with brewery and tasting

£ 56.00

Passau walking tour

£ 17.00

OR Full-day excursion to Salzburg including Salzkammergut and lunch

£ 92.00

Linz walking tour with Linzer Torte tasting

£ 20.00

Visit to Melk Abbey

£ 45.00

Dürnstein walking tour with visit to the Dürnstein abbey

£ 21.00

  OR Winzer Krems vineyard and winery

£ 39.00

Hightlights of Vienna

£ 34.00

Visit to Schönbrunn Palace

£ 47.00

"Sound of Vienna" classical concert

£ 55.00

Bratislava - Beauty on the Danube

£ 33.00

Visit to Schloss Hof Palace and Estate

£ 50.00

  OR The Small Carpathian Wine Route

£ 45.00

Esztergom with basilica, Visegrad Castle and Szentendre

£ 41.00

Budapest - Capital of Hungary

£ 33.00

Gallery

River Danube Itinerary and route

Click on the markers to show to the location of the cruise on each day.