
Danube Charms Vienna to Bratislava Journey
Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Vienna to Vienna, packed with captivating experiences. You’ll start your journey with a warm welcome aboard the MS Splendor, followed by exploring Vienna's iconic landmarks. Sail through the scenic Wachau Valley and visit Melk’s impressive Abbey. Delight in the sights of Esztergom's grand basilica and experience the dual charms of Budapest's Buda and Pest. Enjoy a walking tour of Bratislava’s historic centre and finish back in Vienna. Expect cultural explorations, stunning river landscapes, and ample leisure time to embrace each city’s unique atmosphere. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Tour Overview
Duration
8 daysHotel Rating
star hotelsStarts
ViennaEnds
ViennaMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Austria that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
NoTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Countries
Austria, Hungary, SlovakiaTour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65
Trip Type
Large Coach Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guides (guiding may be in additional languages to English)Group Size
Min 2 / Max 65Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Large Coach ToursPlaces You'll See

Vienna

Melk

Wachau Valley

Dürnstein

Esztergom

Budapest

Bratislava
Included
Tips during the cruise are not included (€50 per person/cruise is recommended).
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Vienna
We welcome you to an unforgettable journey on the MS Splendor as you embark in Vienna, a city rich in history and culture. From 4:00 p.m., you're invited to check in, where our team will be on hand to assist you. Should you arrive before the check-in time, feel free to leave your luggage at the reception and seize the opportunity to explore this beautiful city. To kick off your adventure, we will host a welcome reception followed by a delightful dinner on board. Enjoy a comfortable evening as the ship remains docked in the heart of Vienna, where the night is yours to savour. Please note: This tour may have travellers joining or departing at various points along the route, meaning group composition can change during the tour. Please also be aware that depending on group composition, guiding may be in additional languages as well as English.
Day 2 - Vienna
After breakfast on board, we will embark on a panoramic tour of Vienna, showcasing its renowned landmarks. Highlights include the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard encircling the city centre, and the esteemed Vienna State Opera. We’ll also see the Museum of Fine Arts and its neighbouring Museum of Natural History, as well as the Hofburg Palace, once the imperial winter residence. The tour continues with views of the Austrian Parliament, Vienna City Hall, the Museum of Applied Arts, the Votive Church, and the National Theatre. Following the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore at your own pace before returning to the ship for lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy more free time or consider an optional visit to the historic Hofburg Palace or the iconic Opera House, or perhaps attend a classical concert. As the day closes, we’ll depart Vienna at midnight, sailing overnight to the next destination.
Day 3 - Vienna - Melk - Wachau Valley - Dürnstein
Today, we embark on a delightful journey through the enchanting Wachau Valley along the Danube River. Our morning begins with a visit to the historic town of Melk. Here, you'll have the opportunity to wander its charming streets and explore the magnificent Abbey, renowned for its stunning baroque architecture. In the afternoon, we will make our way to the quaint village of Dürnstein, known for its picturesque setting and rich history. Sailing between these two towns provides the perfect vantage point to appreciate the scenic beauty of the valley. As evening falls, we continue our cruise, setting off for our next destination overnight.
Day 4 - Dürnstein - Esztergom
As we embark on a full-day cruise with all meals included, our journey will take us through one of the Danube River's most captivating sections – the Danube Bend. In the morning, relax on board and enjoy the breathtaking scenery as we navigate this uniquely beautiful stretch. After a leisurely lunch, we'll arrive in Esztergom, the historical heart of Hungary. This town is known as the birthplace of Hungary's first king, Stephen I. Our visit will include a tour of its imposing basilica, an architectural marvel and significant historical site. Following our exploration, you will have some free time to wander at your own pace and absorb the local atmosphere. As the day winds down, we'll return to the ship for dinner and continue our cruise towards Budapest, where we will dock at midnight for an overnight stay.
Day 5 - Esztergom - Budapest
We will wake up in Budapest, the stunning capital of Hungary, regarded as one of Europe's most beautiful cities. After breakfast, we will embark on a panoramic tour that takes us across both banks of the city—Buda and Pest. Our exploration will include visits to iconic sites such as the Fisherman's Bastion, the Synagogue, and the magnificent St. Stephen’s Basilica. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, with options for optional activities should you wish. We will remain in Budapest overnight, allowing you ample opportunity to soak in the charm of this captivating city.
Day 6 - Budapest
You'll have the morning to further explore Budapest at your leisure, or perhaps opt for one of our optional activities to delve deeper into this captivating city. As midday approaches, we'll leave Budapest behind and embark on the next segment of our journey to Slovakia. We'll cruise through the night, providing a comfortable and serene experience as we set sail for new adventures.
Day 7 - Budapest - Bratislava
Today's journey leads us to the captivating city of Bratislava, where we will arrive bright and early. After a hearty breakfast, we will set off on an included walking tour to explore the heart of the Slovak capital. Our stroll through the historic centre will take in key sites such as the Old Town Hall, the bustling Main Square, the charming Ganymede Fountain, the Slovak National Theater, and the majestic St. Martin’s Cathedral. In the afternoon, you are free to wander and uncover more of this intriguing city at your own pace. We'll resume our voyage in the evening, sailing through the night to our next destination.
Day 8 - Bratislava - Vienna
After enjoying breakfast, we will disembark in Vienna. You will need to vacate your cabin by 9:00 a.m., but you're welcome to leave your luggage on board if you'd like to spend more time in the common areas or head into the city for some final exploration. As our services conclude, we trust that you'll depart with wonderful and lasting memories of your journey.
Tour Reviews
Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Pre and Post Tour Accommodation
Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.
Post-Tour Accommodation - Vienna

Pre-Tour Accommodation - Vienna

Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Confirmation of the hotels used may not be available until 48 hours before the tour departs.
If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Shared' prices are for solo travellers who are happy to share with another solo traveller of the same sex in a twin room - a single room will be provided at no additional cost if there are no suitable travellers to share with.
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