The Blue Danube River Cruise for Solo Travelers ITINERARY
Day 1 – Budapest
Fly to Budapest, reach your five-star vessel and settle in for your first night aboard.
Although divided by the Danube River, the twin cities of Buda and Pest have been unified since 1873. Buda, sitting on the western side, offers fairytale architecture, pretty promenades and wooded hills whilst Pest, to the east, is known for its lively and more modern atmosphere with plenty of trendy bars, cafés and restaurants.
Through the centuries, this land has been shaped by struggle and resilience. The Ottomans ruled for 150 years before their departure in the late 17th century. Their enduring legacy continues to thrive in the form of thermal baths nourished by healing hot springs, earning Budapest its inspiring title – the ‘City of Spas’.
Day 2 – Esztergom
Explore Esztergom and its famous basilica on a guided tour, before a relaxing afternoon sailing.
Day 3 – Bratislava
Bratislava is a city where history meets modernity, where intimate charm replaces the bustle of larger capitals, and where every street corner whispers stories of the past. The city boasts a rich history, neoclassical and gothic architecture and a welcoming atmosphere that captivates every visitor. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, we’ll explore the old town, a picturesque maze of cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and lively squares as we wind our way up to Bratislava Castle perched high on a hill overlooking the city. After time to admire the panoramic views of the city and the Danube, we’ll carry on to Michael’s Gate, the only surviving medieval gate of the city’s original fortifications and into the heart of the modern city.
Day 4 – Dürnstein & Melk
Take a guided tour of Dürnstein and its small pedestrian streets, before visiting the impressive Benedictine Melk Abbey in the afternoon.
Dürnstein is known principally for the ice-blue tower of its abbey, which dominates the view, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his return from the crusades.
Day 5 – Salzburg or Linz
Today you will have the option of visiting Linz or Salzburg for a guided walking tour and have plenty of time to explore at your leisure.
Day 6 – Vienna
Vienna’s streets are like an open-air museum, from the grandeur of the Ringstrasse boulevard to the iconic spires of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You can lose yourself in the charm of the historic Innere Stadt with its narrow alleys, chic boutiques, and traditional coffee houses. At the centre of the city lies the majestic Hofburg Palace, a sprawling complex that once served as the winter residence of the Habsburg dynasty. It’s home to the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself.
Day 7 – Budapest
Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise towards Budapest, where we’ll have a guided tour this afternoon.
This evening’s dinner closes with a Hungarian folklore show, giving you time to bid farewell to your travelling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights and sounds you have experienced on a truly ‘imperial’ cruise.
Day 8 – Travel back
It’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home.
