Cruise Summary
Soak up all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart. Stepping aboard you will appreciate the superb surroundings of your floating luxury hotel for the next seven nights with spacious and well-appointed cabins or suites, private bathrooms and meticulously prepared fine cuisine.From Budapest, we slip our moorings and head on our journey north to Esztergom spending the morning exploring its historic centre, which once was Hungary’s capital, before continuing westwards to the beautiful old town of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Navigating through Lower Austria we then reach the romantic town of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned, having been shipwrecked on his return from the crusades. After we visit the remarkable monastery in Melk, with its 200m long Emperor’s Gallery, lined with portraits of Austrian emperors.Soon we arrive in Linz where you have the opportunity to discover its baroque old town on a guided tour. Alternatively, take the short drive to Salzburg and enjoy a guided tour of the old town, seeing the imposing Hohensalzburg fortress, towering over the city and the birthplace and residence of Mozart, Salzburg’s most famous citizen. On our way back eastwards we will reach classical Vienna, home of Strauss and many great composers. This city offers up so much wonderful architecture as well as a host of other things to see including the Spanish riding school.Finally, cruising into Hungary, we arrive back in imperial Budapest, straddling the picturesque Danube. After a guided tour of this palatial city we spend the evening on board, where the Captain hosts another spectacular dinner, an excellent finale to this most exceptional and relaxing cruise.
Cruise Inclusions
Allowing for stress-free travel, Riviera Travel river cruises include travel by air, rail or coach to the ship and transfers to the ship. All food is included in the ships' main dining rooms, and refillable water bottles are provided. Unlimited tea and coffee are available free of charge, on top of shore excursions, wi-fi, complimentary use of cycles in Europe (excluding the Douro). Alcholic and soft drinks are available for an extra fee.
