Danube River Adventure Vienna to Budapest
Set sail on a delightful 8-day river cruise starting and ending in Vienna, brimming with cultural treasures and scenic beauty. Discover the imperial grandeur of Vienna's iconic landmarks like the Hofburg Palace and the Vienna State Opera. Cruise through the unforgettable Wachau Valley, stopping in charming towns like Melk and Dürnstein. Marvel at the spectacular Danube Bend before exploring Esztergom with its impressive basilica. Experience the bustling heart of Budapest where the historic Fisherman’s Bastion awaits. Conclude with Bratislava's historic centre and its striking architecture. This journey offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.
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
Not Included
Itinerary
Day 1 - Vienna
Upon your arrival in Vienna, we'll ensure a seamless start to your journey with a transfer to the port, where you'll be warmly welcomed aboard the MS Splendor. Check-in opens at 4 pm, but feel free to drop your luggage at reception if you arrive earlier and want to acquaint yourself with the city's charms. As the evening unfolds, a welcome reception and dinner await on board, setting the tone for a delightful adventure. We'll be spending the night in Vienna, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere of this captivating city. 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
Following breakfast, we will embark on a panoramic tour of Vienna, showcasing its renowned attractions. Our journey will encompass the grand Ringstrasse, the iconic Vienna State Opera, the Museum of Fine Arts, and the Museum of Natural History. We will admire the majestic Hofburg Palace—once the imperial winter residence—and continue on to view the Austrian Parliament, Vienna City Hall, and the Museum of Applied Arts (MAK). We'll also pass by the striking Votive Church and the distinguished National Theatre. After this comprehensive tour, you'll have some free time to delve deeper into the city before returning to the ship for lunch. In the afternoon, you may choose to enjoy additional leisure time or opt for excursions such as a visit to the Hofburg Palace, a tour of the Opera House, or indulge in a classical concert. We will set sail from Vienna at midnight, journeying overnight to our next captivating destination.
Day 3 - Vienna - Melk - Wachau Valley - Dürnstein
Today, we embark on a delightful journey through the enchanting Wachau Valley, nestled along the Danube River. Our morning will be dedicated to exploring Melk, where you are free to wander through its charming streets and visit the impressive Melk Abbey, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. In the afternoon, we set off to the historic village of Dürnstein, known for its quaint beauty and picturesque backdrop. These two towns beautifully bookend the scenic Wachau Valley, which we will experience fully as we sail between them. As evening descends, we continue our voyage, cruising overnight to our next destination.
Day 4 - Dürnstein - Esztergom
In the morning, we navigate through the magnificent Danube Bend, a breathtaking segment of the river. After a leisurely lunch on board, we visit Esztergom, notable as the birthplace of Hungary’s first king, Stephen I. Here, we explore the grand basilica, a place steeped in history and architectural beauty. After our guided visit, you have free time to wander around Esztergom at your own pace. In the evening, as dinner is served, we set sail again, reaching the vibrant city of Budapest by midnight, where we will dock for the night.
Day 5 - Esztergom - Budapest
We will wake up in Budapest, the stunning capital of Hungary, known as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. After breakfast, we will embark on a panoramic tour that will showcase the best of both sides of the city—Buda and Pest. You can look forward to visiting notable landmarks such as the Fisherman's Bastion, the Jewish Synagogue, and the grand St. Stephen's Basilica. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, with a variety of optional activities available for you to explore. We'll spend the night in Budapest, allowing you plenty of time to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this remarkable city.
Day 6 - Budapest
Spend a relaxing morning in Budapest, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this spectacular city. Perhaps you'll choose to wander through its charming streets or partake in one of the optional activities available. At midday, we set sail once more, gliding from Hungary towards our next destination in Slovakia, as the ship cruises overnight.
Day 7 - Budapest - Bratislava
We'll arrive in Bratislava early in the day, and after breakfast, an included walking tour awaits us in Slovakia's charming capital. Together, we’ll explore the historic centre, marvelling at sights such as the Old Town Hall, Hlavné Námestie (the main square), the Ganymede Fountain, the Slovak National Theatre, and the impressive St. Martin’s Cathedral. The afternoon is yours to continue exploring the city at your own pace. As the day winds down, we'll set sail once more, continuing our journey overnight.
Day 8 - Bratislava - Vienna
After enjoying your final breakfast on board, we will disembark in Vienna. You'll need to vacate your cabin by 9:00 a.m., but you're welcome to leave your luggage on the ship and either relax in the common areas or set off to explore the city. Our services conclude here, with hopes that your journey has been truly memorable.
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
Triple
Double
Twin
Single

Pre-Tour Accommodation - Vienna
Triple
Double
Twin
Single
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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