Cruise the Danube to Vienna and Budapest

Embark on the journey of a lifetime as you set sail from the ‘three rivers’ city of Passau, cruising through the heart of Europe. As you glide along the majestic Danube, our carefully crafted itinerary takes you to stunning ports of call, offering the chance to explore some of Europe’s most captivating destinations. From Vienna’s impressive architecture to Budapest’s rich historical landmarks, this river cruise promises an unforgettable experience.

By Coach

Included Excursions

Day 1

Local departure by coach or Home Connect service, then to Belgium for an overnight stay.

Day 2

We continue to Germany for an overnight stay.

Day 3

Passau to Durnstein

 

Today, we travel to Passau, the ‘three rivers city,’ where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers converge. After boarding our ship, relax and enjoy a peaceful evening as we set sail towards Dürnstein.

Day 4

Durnstein to Vienna

 

We arrive in Dürnstein this morning, nestled among Austria’s renowned vineyards and dominated by the ruins of the castle that once held Richard the Lionheart. Take time at leisure to wander the charming cobbled streets, explore the picturesque courtyards, and admire the 16th-century houses.

 

After lunch on board, relax as we cruise towards Vienna, arriving in the early evening.

Day 5

Full Day

Vienna to Budapest

 

Today, discover the delights of Vienna, a World Heritage Site, with its grand palaces, Baroque castles, stunning squares, and iconic monuments. Our ship docks just a short distance from the city center, giving you plenty of free time to explore at your leisure.

 

Alternatively, join our optional city tour in the morning to see the highlights of the capital. In the afternoon, why not join our optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace and explore its rich history and opulent interiors, including 1,441 rooms?

 

In the early evening, we set sail for Budapest.

 

Optional Vienna City Tour (£20pp)

 

Optional Schönbrunn Palace excursion (£15pp)

Day 6

Half Day

Budapest

 

We arrive in Budapest this morning and dock just a short distance from the city center. After lunch on board, take the opportunity to join our optional guided tour of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city.

 

Explore both sides of the Hungarian capital, divided by the Danube River—historic Buda and cosmopolitan Pest—while discovering famous landmarks like the Royal Palace, Fishermen’s Bastion, Parliament Building, St. Stephen’s Basilica, Heroes’ Square, and the Chain Bridge.

 

Alternatively, enjoy free time to explore at your own pace before returning to the ship for a relaxing dinner.

 

In the evening, consider joining our optional excursion to experience Budapest by night, including a traditional folklore show.

 

Optional Budapest Guided Tour (£22pp)

 

Optional Budapest by Night excursion (£15pp)

Day 7

Half Day

Budapest to Bratislava

 

Spend the morning at your leisure in Budapest, with free time to explore the city at your own pace.

 

Alternatively, join our optional excursion to Lajosmizse, where we visit a traditional stud farm. Enjoy a guided tour of the grounds by horse-drawn carriage, followed by a thrilling Puszta horse show.

 

Afterward, we return to the ship for lunch and continue our journey towards Bratislava this afternoon.

 

Optional Lajosmizse excursion (£15pp)

Day 8

Half Day

Bratislava to Melk

 

We arrive in Bratislava this morning.

 

Join our optional walking tour with a local guide to discover the highlights of this historic capital, including the impressive castle and unique suspension bridge. We’ll also enjoy a taste of ‘Makovka’, a sweet white chocolate filled with poppy seeds.

 

After lunch on board, you’ll have free time to explore Bratislava at your own pace before we set sail towards Melk in the evening.

 

Optional Bratislava Guided Tour (£22pp)

Day 9

Half Day

Melk to Passau

 

This morning, we arrive in the charming town of Melk, located in the scenic Wachau Valley.

 

Join our optional excursion to visit the Benedictine Abbey, one of Austria’s most renowned monastic sites, which has been home to monks for over 900 years.

 

Relax on board for the rest of the day as we cruise towards Passau.

 

Optional Melk Abbey excursion (£15pp)

Day 10

Passau to Austria

 

This morning we arrive in Passau, where we will disembark our cruise ship. We will continue by coach into the Austrian Tyrol for a three-night stay.

Day 11

Half Day

Krimml Falls and Kitzbuhel

 

Join our optional excursion to the stunning Krimml Falls, followed by a visit to the world-famous resort town of Kitzbühel.

 

Optional Krimml Falls and Kitzbuhel excursion (£15pp)

Day 12

Full Day

Innsbruck

 

Join us for an optional excursion to explore the stunning Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol and Austria’s fifth-largest city.

 

Alternatively, opt for a combined excursion that includes a ride on the Nordkettenbahnen, taking you from the city centre to the mountain terrain. Travel to the Hungerburg mountain station for panoramic views of the city, then continue by cable car to the Seegrube restaurant for an unforgettable experience.

 

Optional Innsbruck excursion (£15pp)

 

Optional Innsbruck and Nordkettenbahnen Station excursion (£22pp)

Day 13

Travel to Belgium for an overnight stay.

Day 14

Return home.

Accommodation Options

MS Serenade 1

post-image
The MS Serenade 1 seamlessly blends luxury and intimacy, offering an unforgettable river cruising experience. With modern furnishings, elegant décor, and beautiful artwork, this stunning vessel features four cabin types, each with outside views, climate control, and an en-suite bathroom with a separate shower and bathtub. The contemporary restaurant serves delicious cuisine in a sociable atmosphere, while the expansive sun deck is ideal for enjoying the scenic views. With a dedicated and friendly crew, a remarkable experience is guaranteed aboard the MS Serenade 1.
post-image

Departures

Duration Departure Date Hotel Price per Person Single Supplement

13 nights

01/09/2025 MS Serenade 1 £2149 £559

13 nights

08/09/2025 MS Serenade 1 £2149 £559

13 nights

24/08/2026 MS Serenade 1 £2079 £559

13 nights

31/08/2026 MS Serenade 1 £2129 £559

13 nights

07/09/2026 MS Serenade 1 £2149 £559

13 nights

14/09/2026 MS Serenade 1 £2149 £559

13 nights

21/09/2026 MS Serenade 1 £2149 £559
Duration: 13 nights
Departure Date: 01/09/2025
Hotel: MS Serenade 1
Price per Person: £2149
Single Supplement: £559
Duration: 13 nights
Departure Date: 08/09/2025
Hotel: MS Serenade 1
Price per Person: £2149
Single Supplement: £559
Duration: 13 nights
Departure Date: 24/08/2026
Hotel: MS Serenade 1
Price per Person: £2079
Single Supplement: £559
Duration: 13 nights
Departure Date: 31/08/2026
Hotel: MS Serenade 1
Price per Person: £2129
Single Supplement: £559
Duration: 13 nights
Departure Date: 07/09/2026
Hotel: MS Serenade 1
Price per Person: £2149
Single Supplement: £559
Duration: 13 nights
Departure Date: 14/09/2026
Hotel: MS Serenade 1
Price per Person: £2149
Single Supplement: £559
Duration: 13 nights
Departure Date: 21/09/2026
Hotel: MS Serenade 1
Price per Person: £2149
Single Supplement: £559

Important note: For operational reasons, we may occasionally need to use feeder vehicles to fulfil our tours. Similarly for operational reasons, it may be necessary to change your pickup point from your selected pickup point, but we will always notify you of these changes before you depart. Terms & Conditions apply.

Why Book with Us

Coach Holiday Experts

Your money is 100% secure and protected

Low deposit
holidays available

Friendly booking and travel experience

Fantastic range of amazing holidays available to suit every budget

Over 450 convenient local coach pick up locations for you to choose from

Modern, luxury coaches with professional and knowledgeable drivers

Amazing excursions included with most breaks

Contact us today and book your perfect holiday