Discover the endless wonders and incredible history of Germany,
Austria, Slovakia and Hungary on this vacation, which features a
week-long luxury cruise on the Danube
A symphony of flavors, landscapes and architecture awaits along
the Danube River on this enticing rail and cruise vacation. Begin
in Munich, getting acquainted with the region's romantic scenery at
Neuschwanstein Castle, touring the highlights of Munich and tasting
Bavaria's traditional flavors. We then travel to Passau, where our
cruise begins.
Sail through picture-perfect expanses of Central Europe, passing
through capital cities and naturally beautiful regions. Enjoy our
ship's luxurious offerings while drifting through the Wachau Valley
and Danube Bend, and soak up centuries of culture while touring
fascinating cities.
Unforgettable Experiences
Visit 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 our guided tour.
Experience Hungary’s capital, Budapest
Immerse yourself in the sensational "Pearl of the Danube" - Budapest - with a guided tour of its striking castle, stunning buildings and impressive monuments.
Discover the best of Vienna
Discover Vienna’s imperial grandeur as we wander the city’s Baroque streets and set our sights on its magnificent palaces on a sightseeing tour.
Admire the Wachau Valley
Visit the 11th-century Melk Abbey, with remarkable views across the Danube River, before sailing through the verdant valleys and vineyards of Austria's beautiful Wachau Valley.
Taste authentic Bavarian beer
Learn about the history of beer brewing in Bavaria while touring Munich, and then get a taste of it for yourself while sampling local brews and the foods that pair with them.
Be charmed by Linz
Explore the Austrian city of Linz, whose delightful blend of ancient and modern architecture is presented on a guided tour.
Step Aboard the Luxurious MS Amadeus Cara
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
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
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
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
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 to Expect on a Vacations By Rail River Cruise
What’s included on the tour?
Tour Manager
Escorted throughout your tour by our experienced Tour/Cruise Manager team
Transportation
Standard Class rail travel on local rail networks
All rail and coach travel throughout your tour
Accommodation
3 nights’ 4-Star hotel accommodation
Cruise
7-night cruise onboard Amadeus Cara
Five-Star service onboard from our English-speaking crew
Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
Excursions & Entertainment
A superb choice of excursions
Food & Drink
Breakfast, lunch and dinner each day of your cruise including a spectacular gala dinner
Drinks package with dinner every night of your cruise
Not Included
Cancellation & Travel Insurance is not included in the price of the tour but can be arranged
Flights and Airport transfers
Itinerary
Arriving in Bavaria
Your European adventure begins today in Munich, the capital of
Bavaria. Located in southeastern 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 today, 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 looks at the historic buildings. Return to the hotel
early this evening to meet with the Tour Manager and your group of
fellow travelers. We have our first dinner in the hotel's
restaurant following a quick introductory meeting. Overnight
Munich.
Includes
Dinner
The sights and flavors of Munich
Today, we get to know Munich on a guided sightseeing tour. After
meeting 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.
The rest of the day is spent at leisure, enjoying the city. One
option is to 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
The fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle
One of Bavaria's finest castles awaits us after breakfast
today. Entrance to the castle is included, and during our time
here, we can enjoy spectacular views overlooking the Schwangau
Valley. 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.
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.
During our free time here this afternoon, 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
To Passau, where we board our magnificent ship
The morning is yours to have 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 shops. 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 - a city located on
the shores of the Blue Danube.
A motorcoach awaits our arrival in Passau this afternoon and
takes us to the banks of the Danube, where our luxurious ship
awaits. Stepping aboard, we are greeted 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, and this evening, we indulge in our first delicious
five-course dinner on board. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
The Melk Abbey, Wachau Valley and charming Dürnstein
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
Discovering the magic of 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 visit the illustrious Ringstrasse Boulevard. We see many
of Vienna's most ornate buildings here, including the
world-renowned Opera House and the imposing Parliament
Building.
After our tour, there is time to explore the city at leisure.
The city's vibrant energy is infectious, and it's easy to lose
yourself in the atmosphere. Wander through the city center and
marvel at the striking St. Stephen's Cathedral, or delve into one
of the countless museums. You may decide to visit Schonbrunn
Palace, once the former summer residence of the ruling Habsburg
family, or alternatively indulge in the famous Sacher Torte, a
Viennese delight, at one of the cozy coffee shops. During dinner
this evening, we begin our overnight sail toward Budapest.
Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The fascinating city of Budapest
Enjoy breakfast onboard and a chance to relax amidst the
changing scenery as we sail toward Budapest this morning. Arriving
after lunch, we are introduced to this captivating city's beauty
and history on a sightseeing tour. Known as the "Pearl of the
Danube," Budapest has plenty of impressive buildings and monuments
on both sides of the river. From the State Opera House and St.
Stephen's Basilica to Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion, each
sight is more remarkable than the last.
We return to our luxurious ship in time for dinner this evening,
and after eating, we enjoy the ambiance of a traditional Hungarian
Folklore troupe and a nighttime cruise along the Danube River,
taking in the illuminated sights of Budapest. From the Gothic-style
Parliament building to Buda Castle, the state buildings that line
the banks are all sensationally lit up, as well as the stunning
Chain Bridge. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sailing through the beautiful Danube Bend
After a calm night moored in Budapest, the morning is yours to
continue exploring Budapest 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. We begin cruising
to Bratislava after lunch.
Relax onboard as we navigate the scenic Danube Bend, one of the
most picturesque portions of the Danube River. 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 sun deck or the cozy lounge. We continue cruising
past the delightful landscapes of the Danube for the rest of the
day, bound for Slovokia's capital, Bratislava. End this relaxing
day with a fantastic five-course meal onboard. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Docking in Bratislava
Bratislava's castle, which overlooks the waters of the Danube
River, welcomes us to the capital this morning. Following
breakfast, we set out on a fascinating guided tour. Bratislava is
divided neatly into two parts by the river, and we have time to get
to know both the Baroque Old Town and the castle district during
our time here.
As we explore the enchanting streets, we are surrounded by
Bratislava's historic buildings, Baroque palaces and wealth of
fantastic museums and galleries. Returning to the ship in time for
lunch, we continue downstream toward Linz in Austria. Enjoy the
changing scenery as we float down the river and a chance to enjoy
the ship's amenities or socialize with your fellow travelers.
Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A day in lovely Linz
The final full day of our cruise begins with a calm morning on
the Danube. Maybe start your day with a leisurely breakfast and
then head up to the sun deck for another chance to see Austria's
incredible scenery. We arrive in Linz after lunch this afternoon
and disembark for a guided tour of the town.
Linz is known for its gorgeous old town, as well as its mix of
Baroque and modern architecture. We discover the charming Main
Square, explore the quaint old town with its historic architecture
and stroll through the serene City Park. The rest of our day is at
leisure, and you can experience Linz's welcoming atmosphere at your
own pace.
This evening, we return to the ship to enjoy a gala dinner as we
begin our final cruise towards Passau. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour Conclusion
An itinerary of intrigue and a journey of discovery, this river
cruise vacation has shown us some of the best destinations in
Western and Central Europe. From Germany's enchanting Bavaria,
where beer culture mingles with romantic scenery, to imperial
cities, grand castles and dramatic sections of the river that you
must see to believe, there has been much to uncover.
As the ship docks in Passau this morning, it is time to
disembark for the final time and say goodbye to the wonderful crew
of our Amadeus ship. You are free to make your way to the airport
or train station at your leisure for your journey home.
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.
Train & Ship Information
See more details about this tour's trains and ships.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Deutsche Bahn, headquartered in Berlin, operates trains to all
parts of Germany and neighboring countries. The rail company offers
a range of services in different train fleets. For long-distance
journeys, Deutsche Bahn operates the Intercity Express (ICE) trains
that boast comfortable seats with adequate legroom. There's Wi-Fi
accessibility and a charging socket at every seat. The onboard
catering service makes meals, drinks and snacks available during
the journey. There are various generations of ICE trains - ICE 1,
2, 3, and 4. ICE 3 can reach a top speed of almost 190 mph. ICE 4
trains come with a family area, children's area, quiet zone and
newly modeled ergonomic seats.