The Blue Danube River Cruise with Budapest Extension

Overview
Explore this magnificent imperial city, its iconic Gothic Parliament Building and the superb National Gallery with its impressive collection of Hungarian masterpieces. Visit medieval Visegrad and the delightful Royal Palace at Godollo, before venturing out into the desolate beauty of Hungary’s Great Plain. Step aboard and enjoy the superb surroundings of your floating luxury hotel for seven nights with spacious cabins, private bathrooms, and fine cuisine.

From Budapest, head north to Esztergom, the former Hungarian capital. Continue west to Bratislava, then navigate Lower Austria to the romantic town of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. Visit the remarkable Melk Abbey, known for its Emperor’s Gallery. Then reach Linz, followed by a short drive to Salzburg to explore the fortress Hohensalzburg and Mozart’s birthplace. Visit classical Vienna, with its stunning architecture, before cruising back to Budapest, straddling the Danube, for a final tour and spectacular dinner.

Itinerary Details

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN BUDAPEST

You fly to Budapest, where a coach takes you to your cruise ship. The dedicated crew welcomes you aboard, ensuring you settle into your well-equipped cabin. After an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation will revolve around the delights ahead.

DAY 2: ESZTERGOM

Awake in Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest towns, formerly a royal capital. Visit the enormous neoclassical basilica, Hungary’s largest church, and the historic castle. After lunch, enjoy a scenic departure, with a fascinating view of Hungary and Slovakia along the riverbanks.

DAY 3: BRATISLAVA

Explore Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, on a guided tour of its beautifully restored Old Town. Visit the 17th-century castle with expansive views across the Danube. Afterward, cruise through Lower Austria, absorbing the peaceful landscape as you enjoy another superb dinner.

DAY 4: DÜRNSTEIN & MELK

Visit Dürnstein, known for its abbey and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. Later, visit Melk Abbey, an imposing Baroque structure with a vast library and 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery. Afterward, cruise through the picturesque Nibelungengau region.

DAY 5: SALZBURG

Drive to Salzburg, famous for its impressive fortress Hohensalzburg and the birthplace of Mozart. Enjoy a guided tour of the Old Town and free time to explore at your leisure. Visit Hellbrunn Palace and the Mirabell Gardens. Return to the ship for a splendid dinner.

DAY 6: VIENNA

Today’s visit to Vienna, the cultural heart of Europe, includes a guided tour of the city’s grand monuments, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace. In the afternoon, explore the Prater or visit Schönbrunn Palace. The evening culminates in a live classical recital on board.

DAY 7: BUDAPEST

Cruise back to Budapest and enjoy a sightseeing tour. Visit Castle Hill, the Parliament Building, and the National Gallery, before a gala dinner and Hungarian folklore show to close your Danube cruise.

DAY 8: VISEGRAD & SZENTENDRE

Visit the medieval town of Visegrad and its Royal Palace, followed by a tour of the Szentendre artists’ colony. Stroll through the charming Baroque square and explore the maze of cobblestone streets. Return to Budapest for the next three nights at the Hilton Budapest City.

DAY 9: BUDAPEST

Explore Budapest’s eclectic architecture, from Roman ruins to Ottoman-era thermal baths. Visit the Parliament Building and the National Gallery, then enjoy free time to explore more of this magnificent city.

DAY 10: GODOLLO & PUSZTA

Visit the Royal Palace in Godollo, also known as Hungary’s Versailles, before traveling to the Puszta, Hungary’s Great Plain. Enjoy a traditional lunch at the Equestrian Park, followed by a performance of skilled horsemen and a scenic carriage ride through this unique landscape.

DAY 11: RETURN HOME

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.