Danube in Depth

A turbulent history connected to the Nazis and being renowned for the Nuremberg Trials ensures this historic city is well known, but it also boasts stunning medieval architecture and hosts an impressive Christmas market. Choose from a selection of shore excursions to discover the city. Returning to the ship, you’ll set sail towards Regensburg this afternoon.

Spend the morning relaxing on board as you travel along the river. Arriving at the charming Bavarian city of Regensburg, there’s time to explore. Opt for a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town, with its pristinely preserved medieval architecture; learn about the city’s Jewish heritage; or take part in a traditional sausage-making workshop in an interactive cooking class.

Arrive in Passau, a picturesque city often referred to as the ‘City of Three Rivers’ due to its location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and IIz rivers. Discover its beautiful baroque buildings, magnificent cathedral, and charming cobblestone streets on a walking tour or see the city from another perspective on a photography tour. More active visitors might want to go kayaking or cycling through the enchanting landscape.

Wake up in Austria this morning and dock in the heart of the city of Linz. Get to know the city on a guided walking tour or join a cooking class to make your own Linzer Torte. Alternatively, venture out of the city on an excursion to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Cesky Krumlov or discover the Mauthausen WWII Concentration Camp, hearing the sobering tales of prisoners that were housed there. The afternoon and evening are at leisure.

An early morning arrival in the small and picturesque town of Melk in Austria’s beautiful Wachau Valley ensures there is time to explore the city and its beguiling surroundings. Continuing on through the Wachau Valley, you’ll pass by sloping vineyards and charming villages before arriving in the quaint town of Dürnstein, where there is free time to explore. Later, savour some delicious food and drink, as a local producer is invited on board to share some regional delicacies with you.

Today, it’s an early morning arrival into Vienna, Austria’s impressive capital city. Spend the day exploring, perhaps joining a tour around the centre’s highlights and visiting Schönbrunn Palace, with its ornate rooms and landscaped gardens. A visit to the Belvedere Museum is a must for art lovers, whilst wine connoisseurs will enjoy spending time in the highly acclaimed wine region nearby. An evening concert at Palais Liechtenstein, exclusively for Scenic Cruise guests, is sure to be a memorable experience.

Continuing down the beautiful Danube, enjoy the scenery as you cruise towards Bratislava. Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, this captivating city has a mix of influences from its Austrian, Hungarian, and Slovak heritage. Discover the highlights on a walking tour, sit down for coffee and cake with the locals at one of the city’s most famous and historic coffee shops, or take part in a cooking class to master the art of preparing traditional Slovak dumplings.

The last stop on your journey down the Danube is Budapest. Straddling the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. Renowned for its grand architecture and thermal baths, you’ll have the day here to discover its many wonders.

After a hearty breakfast, it’s time to disembark the ship and check into your hotel, Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest. Spend the next few days exploring or simply relaxing at the hotel, where views of the Danube and the Buda skyline are the perfect backdrop to a luxurious stay.