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The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip

 
4.5 stars(28 reviews)
You are viewing the 2025 itinerary. Select your departure year
202520262027
Duration
8 days
From per person
$2,195 $1,995
Tour code
DPZ25
Mobility Rating 1
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Offer Ends April 30th: Save up to $500 on 2025 River Cruises.

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FREE Cabin Upgrade

In addition to headline price savings, upgrade from the middle deck to upper deck deluxe stateroom for FREE on select sailings. Free upgrade is already reflected in live online pricing, no promotional code needed. Offer valid while supplies last and subject to change.

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Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Discover the beautiful Blue Danube on this 8-day relaxing river cruise, with an effortless itinerary offering the perfect introduction to the must-see highlights of the Danube, including overnight stays in both Vienna and Budapest.

This effortless itinerary offers the perfect introduction to the must-see highlights of the Danube. Enjoy leisurely cruising through four countries and three capital cities, with plenty of time to admire the delightful river scenery.

Discover the beautiful Wachau Valley and the enchanting town of Dürnstein, where time seems to stand still with its cobbled streets and charming architecture. Admire the dramatically located Abbey of Melk, perched majestically on the riverbanks before exploring the imperial grandeur of Vienna, a city steeped in history and opulence.

Next, the spirit of Budapest awaits our discovery with its seamless blend of old and new before we explore the Slovakian capital - Bratislava and the baroque buildings of Linz. Delve into the mix of cultures, history, and landscapes along this iconic river's banks. Join us on a captivating cruise where every bend reveals a new chapter in the story of Europe's cultural tapestry.

Unforgettable Experiences

Budapest
Budapest
Immerse yourself in the sensational ‘Pearl of the Danube’ - Budapest - with a guided tour of its striking castle, stunning buildings, and impressive monuments.
Vienna
Vienna
Discover the Baroque streets and imperial palaces of Vienna on a sightseeing tour.
Wachau Valley
Wachau Valley
Visit the 11th-century Melk Abbey with beautiful views across the Danube before sailing through the verdant valleys and vineyards of the beautiful Wachau Valley.
Bratislava
Bratislava
Admire ornate buildings, fascinating museums, and interesting galleries on a guided tour of Bratislava, the Slovakian capital.
Linz
Linz
Explore a charming blend of ancient and modern architecture on a guided tour of lovely Linz.

Discover more amazing experiences

Explore a world of incredible destinations and travel moments, from hidden gems to iconic sights.

Munich, Bavaria & the Beautiful Danube

11-day vacation

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.

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Imperial Cities & Delights of the Danube

11-day vacation

Explore the historic sites of Berlin and Prague by rail before embarking on a luxury Danube river cruise through Vienna and the Wachau Valley.

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Itinerary

DAY1Day 1 – To Passau where we board our luxurious ship

Your vacation begins as you fly to Munich and then travel independently to Passau with your included open rail ticket.

Our luxurious ship awaits us here, where we're greeted with a refreshing cocktail in the lounge. After settling into your wonderful cabin and familiarizing yourself with our magnificent ship, we indulge in our first delicious five-course dinner on board.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Picturesque Melk Abbey, beautiful 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. It's 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 a famous wine-making region, which makes it the perfect stop on our cruise to sample the renowned 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 renowned castle where Richard I of England was imprisoned for a time, and we get a great view of it from the riverside.

After dinner back onboard, a real treat awaits us in the lounge tonight. As we sail into the magnificent city of Vienna, we're joined by four past members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra who whisk us away with their performances of well-known classical pieces.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY3Discovering the magic of Vienna

Vienna beckons today with its grandeur and elegance, and we head into the city for a guided tour. This is a chance to relish in Austria's Imperial culture, one full of tradition and rich in architectural, artistic, and musical heritage. With our expert guide, we visit the illustrious Ringstrasse boulevard. Here, we see many of Vienna's most ornate buildings, including the world-renowned Opera House, where the greatest singers of our time have graced the stage, and the imposing Parliament Building.

After our inspiring tour, there's time to explore the city at leisure. The city's vibrant energy is infectious, and it's easy to lose yourself in the magnificent atmosphere. Wander through the city center and marvel at the striking St. Stephen's Cathedral, or delve into one of the countless museums that bring the city's history to life. 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.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Day 4 – Striking Budapest

We arrive in glorious Budapest after breakfast, and this afternoon, we're introduced to the beauty and history on a sightseeing tour of this captivating city. 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. After dinner back on board this evening, we enjoy the enchanting ambiance of a traditional Hungarian Folklore troupe.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5Day 5 – The beautiful Danube Bend

After a morning at leisure in Budapest with time to wander and explore, we begin cruising to Bratislava after lunch. Relax onboard as we navigate the scenic Danube bend, passing the village of Visegrad famous for its dramatic hilltop castle and the town of Esztergom, the former capital of Hungary. We continue cruising by the delightful landscapes of the Danube for the rest of the day.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6Glorious Bratislava

This morning we arrive in the enchanting and historic Slovakian capital of Bratislava, welcomed by its castle overlooking the river. We set out on a fascinating guided tour after lunch. Bratislava is divided neatly into two parts by the waters of the Danube, and we have time to get to know both the Baroque Old Town and the castle district.

As we explore the enchanting streets, we're immersed in the vibrancy of the city, which has dramatic historic buildings, Baroque palaces, and a wealth of fantastic museums and galleries. Following lunch, we set sail back to Austria, enjoying spectacular new riverside views extending all the way to the Vienna Woods and beyond.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7Day 7 – Lovely Linz

After a relaxed morning of cruising, we arrive in Linz this afternoon for a guided tour of the town, 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 enjoy a Gala dinner on board as we begin our final cruise towards Passau.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Day 8 – Homeward bound

After breakfast this morning, it's time to disembark and say goodbye to our wonderful crew, new friends, and fellow travelers. Make your way from Passau to Munich with a couple of options. You can join our group transfer to the Munich Airport for flights departing after 4pm or make your own to Munich airport for earlier flights using the included regional railway ticket provided to you.

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.

What’s included on the tour?

Ships

More information on the different ships that are used on this tour.

Cabin DS

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.

Reviews

4.5 stars4.5 / 5 · 28 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (19)
  2. 4 stars
    (5)
  3. 3 stars
    (3)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (1)

Robert Myczek

5 stars

Submitted 27 Aug 2024

This river cruise was excellent!! Getting from Munich to Passau required additional planning to ensure we reached the departure on time. Staying in Munich for one night on both ends of the trip is highly recommended to ensure flight connections are not an issue. Our tour directors and ship crew were excellent. We would highly recommend this river cruise.

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Elena Stame

5 stars

Submitted 23 Aug 2024

This River cruise was the perfect balance of adventures and relaxation. The tour guides were knowledgeable and provided a delightful overview of their cities history ( both good and bad). The ship was perfect in every way, but the food served on board made the experience extra special. All meals were outstanding!

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Ethel Mitchell

5 stars

Submitted 20 Aug 2024

We enjoyed this adventure very much. We couldn't have asked for anything better as far as the cruise, and the attention given to us on the ship.

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Michael Mulroy

5 stars

Submitted 20 Aug 2024

Well run. Great food. Friendly and helpful staff. No downside.

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TODD JONES

5 stars

Submitted 18 Aug 2024

Trip of a lifetime. So many things to do and plenty of time to do them. This trip is so well organized and the staff is amazing.

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Barbara

5 stars

Submitted 17 Aug 2024

The staff was wonderful and the food was amazing!

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