The Blue Danube River Cruise with Vienna Extension - MS Riviera Radiance

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.   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 Emperor’s Gallery, lined with portraits of Austrian emperors. Soon we arrive in Linz where you’ll 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. We will reach classical Vienna, and see the Spanish riding school. Finally, cruising into Hungary, we arrive back in imperial Budapest, straddling the picturesque Danube. This holiday is ideal for travellers who love culture, music and architecture.  End this spectacular adventure with a three-night stay in central. During our time on shore, we'll ride through the stunning natural beauty of Neusiedlersee on a horse and carriage. And explore Schönbrunn Palace on a guided tour, following in the footsteps of Emperors through the imperial apartments before saying goodbye to one of Europe's most opulent cities.