11 days from Prague to Budapest or 12 days incl. travel (WNB)
From the splendor of Prague to the Gypsy violins of Budapest, you'll treasure every moment of this memorable Danube River cruise. Enjoy guided sightseeing in Prague, Nuremberg, medieval Regensburg, Passau, Vienna, and Budapest. Sail through the fascinating Main Danube Canal, attend a beer tasting in Regensburg, tour Melk's splendid Benedictine Abbey, and experience the music, art, culture, and historical sites in romantic Vienna-a memorable vacation!
INCLUDED FEATURES
CRUISE:
Deluxe 7-night cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest in an outside stateroom with hotel-style beds
PRAGUE:
Guided sightseeing, see the Astronomical Clock, and visit Hradcany Castle grounds
NUREMBERG:
Welcome reception; guided sightseeing
MAIN DANUBE CANAL:
Cruise in the canal
REGENSBURG:
Guided sightseeing; beer tasting
PASSAU:
Guided sightseeing
MELK:
Guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey
VIENNA:
Guided sightseeing
BUDAPEST:
Guided sightseeing, visit Fishermen's Bastion
MEALS - (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner
Full buffet breakfast (B) in Prague; superb dining with all meals on board daily featuring full breakfast (B), lunch (L), and dinner (D), including a welcome reception, Captain's reception, and farewell dinner; one sitting with open seating arrangements; complimentary regional wine, beer, or soft drinks with all onboard dinners; complimentary coffee and tea available throughout the day
SUPERIOR HOTELS - (D) Deluxe (SF) Superior First-Class (F) First-Class
PRAGUE Hilton (SF) or InterContinental (SF)
NOTE
Theme Cruise
October 26 departure on the Avalon Tranquility is offered as an exclusive Wine Cruise, including special lectures and tastings, available at no additional cost.
Notes:
In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach.Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change is necessary, a substitute will be offered.
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
Itinerary
Day 1Arrive in Prague, Czech Republic
Welcome to Prague, capital of the Czech Republic. The city straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. The remainder of the day is free to start exploring.
Day 2Prague
Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. See its best-known treasures such as the Old Town's Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all of Europe; HRADCANY CASTLE GROUNDS, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books. Mix with the locals in Wenceslaus Square or stroll along the Vltava River. (B)
Day 3Prague
A free day for you to explore the city at your own pace. Your Cruise Director will have other suggestions for things to do. (B)
Day 4Prague-Nuremberg, Germany (Embarkation)
After lunch, drive to Nuremberg, where your river cruise vessel is docked. Before dinner meet your crew for a welcome reception. (B,D)
Day 5Nuremberg
Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg's traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (B,L,D)
Day 6Regensburg
Regensburg is one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights included on your tour are the Old Town Hall and the Porta Pretoria-gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria's cultural centers. Before dinner we'll introduce you to some of Germany's FAMOUS BEERS! (B,L,D)
Day 7Passau-Linz, Austria
Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. Linz, Austria's third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port. (B,L,D)
Day 8Melk-Vienna
Melk's magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe's largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening, arrive in Vienna, known as the "City of Music," which inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight. (B,L,D)
Day 9Vienna
Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's capital has much to offer: lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your city tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Krntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood cafe. (B,L,D)
Day 10Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is Eastern Europe's liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN'S BASTION and the Matthias Church is among the many sights your Local Guide will show you. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (B,L,D)
Day 11Budapest (Disembarkation)
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
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