Name: The Blue Danube - Westbound
Brand: Tauck

Tauck

Tauck is a super-premium river cruise line offering small, intimate sailings on the waterways of Europe.

The cruise line launched in 1992, offering luxurious and all-inclusive river cruises on the likes of the Danube, Rhine and Rhone.

With many awards under its belt, the cruise line owns it when it comes to European river cruising, heading away from crowded tourist hotspots and off the beaten track.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1

Constanta

Days 2-3

Bucharest

Day 4

Constanta

Day 5

Ruse

Day 6

Vidin

One of the main attractions in Vidin is Baba Vidin, a 10th-century medieval castle that played a key role in Ottoman rule. Today, you can visit to see the collection of weapons and artefacts on display. The city is also a great place to shop for products made with world-famous Bulgarian roses.

Day 7

Iron Gates

Day 8

Belgrade

From Belgrade Fortress, which is full of heritage to whet the appetite of history buffs, to museums like the Nikola Tesla Museum, there's plenty to explore in Serbia's capital. The neighbourhood of Skadarlija is the Balkan answer to Montmartre, known for its kafanas (picture something between an old-school tavern and a coffeehouse).

Day 9

Vukovar

Day 10

Pécs

Days 11-12

Budapest

Many Danube cruises start or end in Budapest, and the Hungarian capital remains a highlight for passengers. It’s a crowd-pleaser of a city, with something for everyone – muscle-melting thermal spas for those seeking relaxation, museums packed with artefacts for the culturally curious and ruin bars for travellers searching for an offbeat adventure.

Day 13

Bratislava

Known as 'the little big city', Bratislava is smaller than most other European capitals, but still has plenty to do. From castles and clock towers to cocktail bars and 'the UFO Bridge', it's full of mysteries you'll want to unravel.

Day 14

Vienna

The Austrian capital is full of old-world charm. Art lovers marvel at the works of the old masters while the musically inclined head to a gilded concert hall to listen to a world-class orchestra or a ballroom for a Viennese Waltz workshop. For foodies, there's plenty to surprise and delight, from the high-ceilinged coffeehouses to the traditional wine bars that embody gemütlichkeit (the Austrian answer to hygge).

Day 15

Melk

This city is full of historical treasures, but Melk Abbey, renowned for its Baroque architecture, makes it a must-visit destination on the Danube.

Day 16

Passau

Owing to its position at the confluence of the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz, this German city has enjoyed a long history as a religious and commercial centre. Today, you can peer into its storied past and learn about its prince bishops' courts and mysterious guilds. Also, St Stephen's Cathedral is home to the biggest organ outside of the USA.

Day 17

Regensburg

This pretty German city is remarkably well-preserved, with landmarks including a notable cathedral and a bridge that has inspired fascinating local lore. It’s also a beer lover’s paradise, with atmospheric spots to try the local varieties, complemented by traditional sausage and sauerkraut.

Day 18

Nuremberg

Bavaria's second biggest city is well worth visiting. Its Christmas Market offers a wealth of handcrafted ornaments, and many visitors are drawn by the city's beer cellars. For those interested in history, there is a considerable amount to explore, including the Palace of Justice, where the Nuremberg trials were held.

Day 19

Bamberg

Day 20

Würzburg

Day 21

Miltenberg

Day 22

Rüdesheim

Day 23

Cologne

Cologne has roots going back to Roman times. Dominating the skyline is the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Europe’s largest Gothic churches. Don’t miss a visit to see its soaring spires, intricate façades and stained-glass windows.Beyond the cathedral, Cologne’s Old Town features cobbled streets lined with colourful medieval houses, cosy beer halls and cafés where the local Kölsch beer is served. The city has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums dedicated to Roman history, modern art and chocolate.The Rhine promenade is a good option for a relaxed walk and a chance to check out the city’s bridges.

Days 24-25

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the Netherlands’ lively capital, famous for its historic canals and art museums. Cruising into the city reveals a network of waterways lined with tall, narrow houses with ornate gables, a hallmark of Dutch Golden Age architecture. The city’s past as a busy trading city can be seen in its harbour and historic buildings.Exploring on foot or by bike, visitors can check out world-class museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum, alongside the poignant Anne Frank House. The city’s compact centre makes it easy to wander through charming neighbourhoods like Jordaan with its boutique shops, cafés and galleries.Despite its popularity, Amsterdam maintains a relaxed vibe with leafy canals and parks offering a peaceful break from the busy centre.

Day 1

Constanta

Days 2-3

Bucharest

Day 4

Constanta

Day 5

Ruse

Day 6

Vidin

Day 7

Iron Gates

Day 8

Belgrade

Day 9

Vukovar

Day 10

Pécs

Days 11-12

Day 13

Day 14

Day 15

This city is full of historical treasures, but Melk Abbey, renowned for its Baroque architecture, makes it a must-visit destination on the Danube.

Day 16

Passau

Day 17

Regensburg

Day 18

Nuremberg

Day 19

Bamberg

Day 20

Würzburg

Day 21

Miltenberg

Day 22

Rüdesheim

Day 23

Cologne

Days 24-25

Amsterdam

Passengers

Crew

2010

Launched

2018

Last refit

110m

Length

12m

Width

13kts

Speed

Decks

EUR

Currency

MS Esprit

Newly redesigned for a more intimate cruising experience, ms Esprit offers a seamless combination of luxury and comfort as you glide along the Danube and Rhine Rivers... enjoy views of fairy-tale castles that line the riverbanks from the Sun Deck... gaze at picture-book villages while you dine at Compass Rose, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of fellow passengers in the lounge before heading out, ready for the adventures that lie ahead...