1-877-929-7245
Tour Search



Germany & Eastern Europe
River CruiseRiver Cruise

 Munich, Bavaria & the Beautiful Danube

 
You are viewing the 2027 itinerary. Select your departure year
202620272028
Duration
11 days
From per person
$3,299 $2,999
Tour code
MPZ27
Mobility Rating 2
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Save $300pp

Save $300 per person on all 2027 River Cruise vacations, when you book by July 31 2026.

View terms and conditions

Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
Gallery
Map

Discover breathtaking wonders and incredible history in Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary on this vacation, that features a week-long luxury cruise on the Danube

A symphony of flavors, landscapes and architecture awaits along the Danube River on this enticing tour and cruise vacation.

Beginning in Bavaria, get acquainted with the region's romantic scenery at Neuschwanstein Castle, and tour the major landmarks of Munich before savoring a tasting of traditional beers.

From Passau, embark on a seven-night luxury cruise through picture-perfect expanses of central Europe, passing through capital cities and naturally beautiful regions. Drift through the Wachau Valley and Danube Bend, and soak up centuries of culture while touring Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava.

Unforgettable Experiences

Visiting fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle
Visiting fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle
Climb into the foothills of the Alps to Neuschwanstein Castle, a 19th-century castle so magnificent it inspired Disney, where stunning views and grand interiors set a fantastic backdrop for a guided tour.
Experiencing Budapest, Hungary’s grand capital
Experiencing Budapest, Hungary’s grand capital
Become immersed in sensational Budapest, known as the "Pearl of the Danube", with a guided tour of its striking castle district and an evening dinner cruise when iconic riverside buildings are illuminated.
Discovering the best of elegant Vienna
Discovering the best of elegant Vienna
As the center of the Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital is renowned for its imperial grandeur, which can be uncovered in its magnificent palaces on a sightseeing tour or while wandering its Baroque streets.
Admiring the Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey
Admiring the Wachau Valley and Melk Abbey
Sail through the verdant valleys and vineyards of Austria’s UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley before visiting the 11th-century Melk Abbey, whose beautiful views stretch across the Danube.
Tasting authentic Bavarian beer
Tasting authentic Bavarian beer
Learn about the history of brewing in Bavaria while touring Munich, then get a taste of it for yourself while sampling local brews and the foods that pair with these traditional German beers.
Uncovering the charm of Linz
Uncovering the charm of Linz
Explore the Austrian city of Linz, whose delightful blend of ancient and modern architecture is revealed on a guided tour.

Step Aboard the Luxurious MS Amadeus Cara

Fantastic Onboard Amenities
Fantastic Onboard Amenities
With nightly entertainment in the Panorama Bar, a fitness center, massage facilities, a putting green, shuffleboard, giant chess, a sprawling Sun Deck, and included chef-prepared meals, each moment is filled with options.
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Each meal is an event to remember during your cruise itinerary, with regionally inspired breakfast and lunch options, delicious four-course dinners with complimentary drinks, and a fantastic captain’s gala on the final night.
Impeccable Service
Impeccable Service
As you drift along the Blue Danube, enjoy high-end service from a well-trained staff, each member there to answer your questions, refresh your beverages and ensure your comfort as you cruise between destinations.
Comfortable Cabin Options
Comfortable Cabin Options
Whether a Deluxe Suite on the Upper Deck, a Deluxe Stateroom on the Upper or Middle Decks, or a Classic Stateroom on the Lower Deck, each cabin is designed with your comfort in mind.
Immersive Ports of Call
Immersive Ports of Call
Remarkable destinations line the Danube River and included shore excursions can open your eyes to the history of cities like Salzburg, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest and the beautiful scenery of the Wachau Valley.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1Arriving in Bavaria

Your European vacation begins in Munich, the capital of Bavaria. Located in southern Germany, the scenic region of Bavaria is surrounded by lush forests and the picturesque peaks of the Bavarian Alps. Tradition runs deep here, with well-preserved villages, medieval castles and beer-making heritage setting the stage for fascinating explorations.

As you arrive, make your own way to our centrally located hotel for check-in. Take some time to get settled in and acclimate to your new surroundings, perhaps strolling around the city to get your first look at the historic buildings.

Returning to the hotel early this evening, you can meet the Tour Manager and fellow travelers ahead of our first dinner together in the hotel's restaurant. Overnight Munich.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Soaking up the sights and flavors of Munich

After breakfast this morning, we get to know Munich on a sightseeing tour. Meeting our guide at the Fish fountain, we wander the historic streets, admiring the city's charming main square, Marienplatz, home to the neo-Gothic Town Hall and the famous glockenspiel. We also see the Church of St. Peter, with its exterior boasting eight clocks.

Afterward, we stop for food and drink in typical Munich style by sampling local food and beers. Munich is renowned for its beer and, after learning about the history of brewing in Bavaria and the influence of the Reinheitsgebot purity law at the Oktoberfest Museum, we visit Munich's oldest beer house, the Höfbrauhaus, which opened in 1589.

The rest of the day is spent at leisure. You could stroll through the city's many green spaces. The 17th-century Hofgarten's Renaissance gardens stand behind Munich Residence, the former home of Bavarian dukes and kings, while the expansive English Garden is larger than New York's Central Park. Munich's culinary scene extends far beyond beer and includes many options for you to discover on your own this evening. Overnight Munich.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3Marveling at fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle

One of Bavaria's finest castles awaits us after breakfast today as we visit the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle in the foothills of the Alps near the Austrian border. Commissioned by the reclusive King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the castle is an architectural masterpiece. It was the inspiration for the castle in Disney's Sleeping Beauty, showing testament to the king's romantic vision.

Entrance to the castle is included, and we can enjoy spectacular views overlooking the Schwangau Valley. Built in a striking Romanesque Revival style, it features soaring towers, turrets and battlements, all of which are set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and verdant forests. Its interior is just as impressive, with ornate carvings, lavish murals and an opulent throne room. Interestingly, the castle's construction was plagued by setbacks and financial difficulties and was never fully completed during King Ludwig's lifetime. While exploring this picture-perfect castle, you can soak in all its grandeur and see why it inspires millions of people.

We return to Munich later this afternoon and have dinner together at our hotel this evening. Overnight Munich.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY4Boarding our luxurious ship in Passau

The morning is yours to savor a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and wrap up your sightseeing in Munich. You might like to revisit the Marienplatz, head to Odeonsplatz to see its Roman architecture or look for souvenirs in the local stores. You could also spend a morning relaxing at our hotel before we walk to Munich's railway station to join the train to Passau, Germany - an attractive city located on the shores of the Danube.

A motorcoach awaits our arrival in Passau this afternoon and takes us to the banks of the river, where our luxurious ship awaits. Stepping aboard, we are greeted by the wonderful crew with a refreshing cocktail in the lounge and shown to our onboard accommodations.

Take some time to settle in and familiarize yourself with our magnificent ship, before we indulge in our first delicious five-course dinner on board this evening. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY5Melk Abbey in the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley

This morning, we visit Melk Abbey, an 11th-century Benedictine Abbey that stands atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube. Here, we see the abbey's church, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches north of the Alps.

After lunch, we cruise through the scenery of the Wachau Valley, truly a highlight of the river. This scenic area of green valleys and vineyards is dotted with picturesque riverside towns and commanding fortresses. Austria's Wachau Valley is also a famous wine-making region, which makes it the perfect stop on our cruise to sample the local wine. There's free time in the quaint village of Dürnstein to do just that or simply wander the charming streets, soaking up the fairytale landscapes. This village is also home to the castle where Richard I of England was imprisoned, and we get a great view of it from the riverside.

After dinner back onboard, a treat awaits in the lounge tonight. As we sail into Vienna, four past members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra join us onboard to whisk us away with their performances of classical pieces. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6Discovering the magic of imperial Vienna

With its grandeur and elegance, Vienna beckons today, and we head into the city for a guided tour. This is a chance to relish Austria's imperial culture, which is full of tradition and rich in architectural, artistic and musical heritage.

With our expert guide, we make our way to the illustrious Ringstrasse. Here, we see many of Vienna's most ornate buildings, including the world-renowned Opera House and the imposing Parliament. After the tour, you have some time to explore the city at leisure. It is a delight to stroll amongst its scenic streets, marveling at the striking St. Stephen's Cathedral or entering one of the countless museums and galleries that bring the city's history to life. You may choose to visit Schönbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the ruling Habsburg family, or have a seat at a grand coffeehouse to indulge in a slice of Sachertorte, a famous and delicious Viennese cake.

During dinner this evening, we begin our overnight sail toward Budapest. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7Exploring Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube”

As we sail onward this morning, we navigate the scenic Danube Bend, passing the village of Visegrad and its striking hilltop castle.

Arriving in Budapest, we get an overview of the "Pearl of the Danube" during a visit to Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion on the Buda side of the city, enjoying incredible views. After lunch onboard, we continue our explorations in Pest, admiring impressive landmarks, including the State Opera House and St. Stephen's Basilica. A performance by a traditional Hungarian folklore troupe accompanies dinner onboard this evening.

Afterward, we embark on a nighttime cruise along the Danube, taking in the illuminated sights of Budapest. From the piercing spires of the neo-Gothic Parliament building to Buda's Baroque castle, the state buildings lining both banks are lit up, as well as the Chain Bridge. Whether you choose to relax in the lounge or take in the panoramic views from the sun deck, this is the best way to see this beautiful city as the lights cast a magical glow across the Danube. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Sailing through the beautiful Danube Bend

After a night moored in Budapest, the morning is yours to continue exploring the Hungarian capital at leisure. You may wish to revisit sights from yesterday's tour for deeper exploration or unwind while soaking in one of the city's many thermal baths.

Lunch is served back on our ship, during which we begin cruising to Bratislava. Relax onboard as we navigate the scenic Danube Bend, one of the most picturesque portions of the Danube. Passing the village of Visegrad, famous for its dramatic hilltop castle, and the town of Esztergom, the former capital of Hungary, there is much to see from either the sundeck or the cozy lounge.

Our cruise continues as we sail through the delightful landscapes lining the Danube bound for Slovakia's capital, Bratislava. End this relaxing day with a fantastic five-course meal onboard this evening. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY9Uncovering the old-world charm of Bratislava

The gleaming white walls of Bratislava Castle, overlooking the waters of the Danube, welcome us this morning as we set out on a guided tour of the Baroque old town and castle district.

Despite being a national capital, Bratislava is nicknamed the "Little Big City" due to its compact size. Wandering the charming streets, where each corner reveals delightful new views, we admire attractive squares, idyllic streets, grand palaces and historic churches. Keep an eye out for some of Bratislava's quirky statues, including a sculpture commemorating Schöne Náci, an eccentric local character, and Čumil, a subterranean worker peeking out of a manhole. From the hilltop castle, soak up views across the terracotta roofs of the Old Town and the SNP Bridge - also known as the UFO bridge because of its futuristic design.

Returning to the ship in time for lunch, we continue downstream toward Linz in Austria. Enjoy the changing scenery as we float along the river and take the opportunity to enjoy the ship's amenities, including the sundeck or the panoramic lounge. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY10Guided tour of cultural Linz

After a relaxed morning of cruising, we arrive in Linz this afternoon for a guided tour. This thriving city blends historic and modern architectural styles. The focal point of life in Linz is the Hauptmarkt, one of the largest main squares in Austria. Wandering the charming lanes of the Old Town reveals timeless scenes and impressive churches, while its 14th-century castle now houses a museum.

The rest of our day is at leisure, and you can experience the welcoming atmosphere of this vibrant and forward-thinking city at your own pace. With a mix of traditional Austrian elegance and a booming cultural scene, you could spot public art installations or venture into renowned modern galleries.

Back on our ship this evening, we enjoy our farewell gala dinner as we begin the final part of the cruise toward Passau. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY11Traveling home

From Munich to Budapest and back to Bavaria, this memorable vacation has unveiled enchanting cities and diverse culture that flows along the Danube between Germany and Hungary. Having tasted authentic beer and visited Neuschwanstein Castle from Munich, your five-star river cruise showcased the natural beauty of Austria in the Wachau Valley, while imperial grandeur was uncovered in Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest.

As the ship docks in Passau this morning, it is time to disembark for the final time and say goodbye to our wonderful crew. A flexible train ticket to Munich airport is included to begin your journey home.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours, they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. Please reference our Mobility Ratings Information, and if you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-929-7245.

Train & Ship Information

See more details about this tour's trains and ships.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin DS | Vacations by Rail
Deluxe Suites - Upper Deck

Travel the rivers in the utmost comfort and style when you choose to stay in one of our incredible Deluxe Suites. These cabins are larger than the others on board, at 26.4 square metres, and come with additional touches that adds just that extra touch of opulence.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin A1 | Vacations by Rail
Deluxe Stateroom - Upper Deck

With your first steps into your Deluxe Stateroom, the impressive amount space is immediately apparent, with plenty of room for luggage, clothes and souvenirs included in your 17.5 square metres.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin B1 | Vacations by Rail
Deluxe Stateroom - Middle Deck

With your first steps into your Deluxe Stateroom, the impressive amount space is immediately apparent, with plenty of room for luggage, clothes and souvenirs included in your 17.5 square metres.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin C1 | Vacations by Rail
Classic Stateroom - Lower Deck

We take great pride in the quality, comfort and elegance that makes up the 16 square metres of our Classic Staterooms, which make up the majority of our on board accommodation. And we recognise the importance of having somewhere inviting to retire to after an engaging day of cruising or excursions.

Find out more
Related inspiration from our journey blog