European Gems River Cruise Itinerary
DAY 1 – Arrive Budapest, Embark Ship
Arrive in the enthralling city of Budapest, where your river ship awaits on the Danube River. Enjoy a Welcome Reception and meet your fellow travellers and Cruise Director.
DAY 2 – Budapest
Awake to views of one of the Danube’s most enchanting cities this morning. Disembark and learn the vibrant history of Budapest as your local guide takes you to a host of impressive sights. Back on board this evening, enjoy a delightful Gala Welcome Dinner while you cruise.
DAY 3 – Vienna
On arrival in the city centre, join a walking tour to uncover sights like St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Graben and Hofburg Palace. Later, explore the vibrant Naschmarkt at your leisure. This evening, perhaps attend an optional concert for a memorable experience.
DAY 4 – Vienna
With the day at leisure, perhaps explore the Hofburg area or wander along Kärntnerstrasse, the city’s famous shopping strip. Otherwise, embark on an optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, or head to Bratislava, Slovakia’s capital.
DAY 5- Dürnstein, Melk
Cruise to Dürnstein, a charming town watched over by the hilltop ruins of the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned in the 12th century. Spend your morning wandering its cobbled streets, historic townhouses, and inviting taverns. You might also choose to join an optional tour and sample the region’s renowned wines. Later, sail through the scenic Wachau Valley before docking in Melk to tour its magnificent abbey, a Benedictine monastery in continuous operation since 1089.
DAY 6 – Aschach, Passau
Today, you can choose to join an optional tour to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or visit Salzburg. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing sailing day to Passau.
- Insider Experience – Bavarian Evening on Board
Tonight, enjoy a traditional Bavarian experience on board. Sample delicious local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.
- Enhance Your Journey – Český Krumlov
Enjoy a fascinating day excursion to the city of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, home to more than 300 historical buildings.
- Enhance Your Journey – Salzburg Sights
Take a trip through the stunning scenery of Austria. Visit Mondsee, where you may recognise the famous Wedding Church from ‘The Sound of Music’. Continue to Salzburg and be guided through the town Mozart called home. Enjoy some free time to explore explore at your leisure before returning to your ship.
- Enhance Your Journey – Passau Culinary Tour
In the beautiful city of Passau, enjoy a guided walking tour, taking in the historic sites as you roam the cobblestone lanes of the Altstadt. You’ll also get to sample a variety of sweet and savoury local specialties.
DAY 7 – Regensburg
Continue along the Danube River to Regensburg, located in the Bavarian region of southern Germany. Here, join a guided tour of the city’s historic streets, medieval buildings, and cultural sites.
DAY 8 – Nuremberg
Arrive in Nuremberg, the site of Hitler’s infamous rallies during World War II. Take a city tour this afternoon, which includes sights such as the Zeppelin Field and Palace of Justice.
DAY 9- Bamberg
Bamberg, one of the few German cities spared destruction during World War II, beckons your attention today. You’ll gain great insight during a locally guided tour of the historic city. Gaze upon sights such as the Old Town Hall and the Bamberg Cathedral, followed by some free time to explore.
DAY 10 – Würzburg
Surrounded by lush hills and vineyards, Würzburg is home to the stunning baroque Würzburg Residence. Explore the palace and its Court Garden before perhaps opting for a visit to medieval Rothenburg, a fairytale town nestled along the Romantic Road.
DAY 11- Miltenberg
Discover Miltenberg today, exploring this well-preserved town’s half-timbered buildings dating from the 15th to 18th centuries. Return to your ship and enjoy time at leisure. As the sun sets, watch the lights of medieval towns slip past as you cruise through the night.
DAY 12- Rüdesheim, Rhine Gorge
In Rüdesheim, the Winzerexpress mini road train will take you to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Later, back on board, enjoy spectacular scenery as you sail along the Rhine Gorge.
DAY 13- Cologne, Brühl
Learn how the twin spires of Cologne’s famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience.
DAY 14 – Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s network of canals is a sight to behold. Dock in the city’s heart and board a glass-top boat to discover its views. Back on land, enjoy free time before a Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board.
DAY 15- Disembark Ship, Depart Amsterdam
After breakfast, disembark your river ship and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
