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The Classic Blue Danube Cruise

 
4.6 stars(16 reviews)
You are viewing the 2026 itinerary. Select your departure year
202520262027
Duration
8 days
From per person
$1,995
Tour code
DDZ26
Mobility Rating 1
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Relax and explore on a breathtaking cruise along one of Europe's most diverse rivers on a Danube river cruise, sailing through natural beauty, and embarking on cultural explorations to historic cities.

Fly to Munich and take the train independently to Passau to join our luxurious Classic Blue Danube river cruise, taking in the majestic beauty along its banks. We delve into the rich history of the Ottoman and Habsburg empires and wander among inspiring architecture in Budapest. Stepping onshore along the way, we explore enchanting cities from Bratislava to Vienna, embracing the diverse cultures that the Danube has to offer.

Sailing the beautiful Wachau Valley, we visit charming Dürnstein and are captivated by Melk Abbey. Arriving in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, we discover the city's hidden treasures before cruising towards Budapest's historic charm. Our journey ends with an unforgettable evening cruise along the Danube, taking in the illuminated sights of Budapest, known as the 'Pearl of the Danube'. Relax onboard, explore fascinating cities, and let the natural beauty of the Danube take your breath away.

Unforgettable Experiences

Experience the beauty of Budapest on an evening Danube cruise
Experience the beauty of Budapest on an evening Danube cruise
See the sparkling Danube from a new perspective during an evening cruise, marveling at the sight of Budapest’s illuminated buildings casting a magical glow on the river.
Enjoy a tour of elegant Vienna
Enjoy a tour of elegant Vienna
Uncover the home of the influential Habsburg empire on a tour of the Ringstrasse’s majestic architecture, viewing the Opera House and Hofburg palace.
Sail the verdant Wachau Valley to Melk Abbey
Sail the verdant Wachau Valley to Melk Abbey
Cruise amid the vineyards of the Wachau Valley before visiting the 11th-century Melk Abbey to bask in beautiful views across the Danube.
Discover cultural Salzburg on a guided tour
Discover cultural Salzburg on a guided tour
Get to know the hometown of world-famous composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the setting for The Sound of Music during a sightseeing tour.
Uncover the charm of beautiful Bratislava
Uncover the charm of beautiful Bratislava
With idyllic streets lined by ornate Baroque buildings and dotted with quirky statues, an exploration of Slovakia’s compact capital is an enchanting experience.

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.

Discover more amazing experiences

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

 Munich, Bavaria & the Classic Danube

11-day vacation

Explore the history and culture of Bavaria, spending 3-nights in Munich with a visit the fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle. Then embark on a 7-night luxury Danube River cruise visiting renowned cities of Vienna, Budapest, and more.

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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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What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1Day 1 – To Passau where we board our luxurious ship

Your vacation begins as you land at Munich airport. From the Bavarian capital, transfer to the pretty border town of Passau, where our luxurious cruise ship awaits.

We're greeted onboard by our friendly crew and sip on a welcome cocktail while taking in the waterside views from the lounge. After settling into your cabin and familiarizing yourself with our ship's facilities, we indulge in our first five-course dinner on board.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Day 2 – Sailing through enchanting landscapes to Linz

After breakfast this morning, we set out on a guided tour of Passau. Known as the 'Three Rivers City', it sits at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers. The delightful Old Town is filled with Baroque architecture, including St Stephen's Cathedral, and lies in the shadow of the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fortress.

This afternoon, we begin our relaxing cruise along the Danube. Drifting through beautiful scenery into Austria, we get our first sight of rising hills covered with vineyards and orchards. The ever-changing landscapes create a picturesque backdrop, occasionally revealing charming villages, medieval castles and centuries-old monasteries that cling to the hilltops.

Our destination today is the Austrian city of Linz, where we arrive this evening and moor for the night.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3Day 3 – Salzburg and the Austrian Lake District or Český Krumlov

Waking in beautiful Linz, there are two excursions to choose from after breakfast.

The first option is a day trip to Salzburg, a striking city overlooked by Hohensalzburg Fortress set high on a hill. Enroute, we stop in the Austrian Lake District for a beautiful photo opportunity before arriving in Salzburg. During a guided sightseeing tour, we explore Getreidegasse, the street on which Mozart was born. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning Baroque architecture, beautiful churches, quaint squares and charming alleyways that we can admire on our explorations.

Alternatively, join an excursion into Czechia to visit Český Krumlov, a small Bohemian town that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. On a tour, we explore the palatial castle, occupying an imposing position high above a bend on the Vltava River. A guided walk around the UNESCO-listed Old Town - followed by time at leisure - reveals idyllic streets and picture-perfect squares surrounded by ornately gabled Baroque houses.

We return to our ship for dinner and set sail for an overnight cruise further into Austria.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Day 4 – Melk Abbey and the scenic Wachau Valley

Docking in Emmersdorf this morning, we set out for a visit to Melk Abbey after breakfast. This 11th-century Benedictine Abbey stands atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube. On our guided tour, we see the abbey's church, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches north of the Alps.

Back on the ship, we enjoy lunch as we sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley - truly a highlight of the Danube. This scenic area of green valleys and vineyards is dotted with attractive riverside towns and commanding fortresses. It is also one of Austria's most famous wine-making regions, specializing in Grüner Veltliner.

Arriving in the riverside village of Dürnstein, there's free time to sample the local produce or simply wander the charming streets and admire its powder blue Baroque church tower. Dürnstein is also home to the hilltop castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned during the 12th century, and we get a great view of it from the riverside. After dinner, we continue sailing overnight.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5Day 5 – Embracing the imperial majesty of Vienna

After a peaceful overnight cruise, the noble city of Vienna beckons. On arrival, we embark a guided tour to uncover Austria's imperial heritage. With our expert guide, we make our way to the illustrious Ringstrasse boulevard. Here, we see many of Vienna's most ornate buildings including the world-renowned Opera House and the imposing Parliament.

Following the tour, there's time to explore the city at leisure. It's 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 indulge in a slice of famous Sachertorte, a delicious Viennese cake, at one of the grand coffeehouses.

Tonight, a real treat awaits us in the lounge as we're joined by four previous members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra who whisk us away with their performances of well-known classical pieces.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6Day 6 – Uncovering the old-world charm of Bratislava

The atmospheric ruins of Devín Castle at the confluence of the Morava and Danube rivers signal that we have entered Slovakia. Making our way to the country's capital, we are welcomed by views of Bratislava Castle's gleaming white walls. Arriving this morning, we set out on a guided tour of the Baroque Old Town and castle district.

Despite being a national capital, beautiful Bratislava is nicknamed the 'Little Big City' due to its compact size. Wandering the utterly 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 in views across the terracotta roofs of the Old Town and the SNP Bridge - also known as the UFO bridge because of its futuristic design.

Later this afternoon, we continue downstream to Esztergom, the former capital of Hungary, where we berth for the night.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7Day 7 – To Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’

As we sail onwards 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, enjoying incredible views of the river and Pest. After lunch onboard, we continue our explorations, admiring impressive landmarks including the State Opera House and St Stephen's Basilica. A performance by a traditional Hungarian folklore troupe accompanies dinner.

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

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

After breakfast this morning, it's time to disembark and say goodbye to our wonderful crew.

This cruise vacation has showcased the beauty of the Danube from Passau to Budapest. From natural wonders such as the Wachau Valley and Danube Bend to the elegant cities and pretty villages lining its banks, this spectacular river has revealed the treasures of central Europe.

Transferring by coach to Budapest airport, you catch your flight back home where your Danube vacation comes to an end.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Ships

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

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Enhance your holiday

Extend your stay

Many of our guests choose to spend additional nights before or after their trip. Vacations By Rail would be happy to make hotel arrangements for you.

Reviews

4.6 stars4.6 / 5 · 16 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (12)
  2. 4 stars
    (2)
  3. 3 stars
    (2)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (0)

Mr Derek Pottenger

5 stars

Submitted 13 Sep 2024

The Amadeus Imperial is clearly a 5 star ship and the cruise was a very relaxing and thoroughly enjoyable experience. The trip was exceptionally well curated and managed by the two cruise directors/managers Kate and Linda.

Collected by Trustpilot

Steele Stewart

5 stars

Submitted 04 Sep 2024

Everything was wonderful. Great value for the money.

Collected by Trustpilot

Katheryn Carlin

5 stars

Submitted 28 Aug 2024

Very good service and wonderful people handling everything.

Collected by Trustpilot

Margaret Deans

5 stars

Submitted 28 Aug 2024

Clean, modern ship with spacious mid-level cabins. Friendly, bilingual staff. Excellent menus and service. Comprehensive tours.

Collected by Trustpilot

Margaret Deans
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Maureen O'Tallaghan Shcoll

5 stars

Submitted 27 Aug 2024

Pleasantly surprised on the quality of the ship, crew and food

Collected by Trustpilot

pb

5 stars

Submitted 27 Aug 2024

Absolutely delightful from the very beginning! Our Tour Directors Kate and Linda made it the most delightful holiday! Always available! To answer questions and provide assistance ... Do they ever sleep? And Captain Tom and his Staff simply could not be better hosts! This was a most wonderful holiday! Much more than expected, actually. Of course, the Danube offered exquisite views!

Collected by Trustpilot

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