7-night Christmas Markets on the Danube Eastbound River Cruise

National Geographic - Lindblad Expeditions · Evolve · 7 nights · Passau–Budapest

Evolve
Passau/Budapest

What's Included

  • 7-nights accommodations
  • All meals aboard ship
  • And more

Available Add-Ons

Optional roundtrip airfare.
Optional pre or post cruise nights

Itinerary

Dec 16 Passau

In the third millennium, Passau was considerably enlarged by the prince bishops of Passau, who made it their royal residence and capital of the largest Danube diocese. The wonderful Baroque buildings dominating the city today were built after a fire of 1662. One of the most striking is cathedral of St. Stephan, with the world's biggest church organ. One of the best ways to enjoy the magic of Passau is with a sightseeing tour. Other sights to see include: Neue Residenz - an Episcopal palace; Veste Oberhaus - Citadel of the prince bishops with the best view of the Old Town and confluence of the three rivers; Town Hall, which is lavishly decorated halls with monumental paintings; Niedernburg Abbey - tomb of Gisela, first queen of Hungary; Maria Hilf - an abbey and place of pilgrimage overlooking the town center; Dreiflusse-Eck - the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz; and St. Nikolai - a University church with Romanesque crypt.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Passau Shore Excursion: Private Full Day Tour to Munich, 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This full day tour takes you to the Bavarian capital for a Private City Tour of Munich; among others you pass by impressive sights such as the Nymphenburg Palace, the Royal Residence, the Olympia Park and many more.

Highlights:

  • Private licensed Munich Guide for your City Tour
  • Main sights in Munich: e.g. Olympia Park, BMW building, Old and New Art Gallery (Alte Pinakothek and Neue Pinakothek), National Theatre, Royal Residence, Nymphenburg Palace, The Angel of Peace Monument in Schwabing, King’s Square, Victory Gate, English Garden and many more (only outside visits!).
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 7-8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Passau or Vilshofen
  • Transfer in a private minivan with English speaking driver
  • Private licensed English speaking guide for the Munich City Tour (other languages available, but on request)
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances

Passau Shore Excursion: Private Full Day Tour to Cesky Krumlov, 7 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This full day tour takes you just across the border to the Czech Republic,to visit Cesky Krumlov (UNESCO World Heritage Site). From April till October, an inside visit of the Cesky Krumlov Castle is included in this package.

Highlights:

  • Private licensed local Guide for your Cesky Krumlov visit
  • Cesky Krumlov - medieval city, impressing with its unique atmosphere, including the Minorite Monastery and the Church of St. Vitus.
  • From April-October (Tuesday-Sunday): inside visit of the enthroning Cesky Krumlov Castle.
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 7 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Passau or Vilshofen
  • Transfer in a private minivan with English speaking driver
  • Private licensed English speaking guide for the Cesky Krumlov City Tour (other languages available, but on request)
  • April-October (Tuesday-Sunday): Entrance fee for Cesky Krumlov Castle
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances, other than stated above

Private explorations in the quaint three river village — Optional Private Excursions
Highlights:
 
Meet our experienced local team member at your ship and tailor your city stroll according to your interests and expectations
 
The picturesque city of Passau, known as ‘The City of Three Rivers’, stands at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and the Ilz Rivers in Germany’s far southeast corner near the Austrian border
 
Passau was an ancient Roman colony and a former hub of the salt trade, then later the Holy Roman Empire, largest diocese and a sword-making centre
 
Enjoy a walking tour of the historic city centre with its enchanting, narrow lanes, beautiful riverbank promenades to see the ‘Rathaus’, with its , Baroque festival hall, the New Bishop's Residence before arriving at St. Stephen's Cathedral
 
St. Stephen's is a true masterpiece of Italian Baroque and is most famous for its spectacular organ. With 17,774 pipes and 233 registers it is not to be missed. Schedule permitted enjoy a recital by their master organist
 
End your walk with a stop at our favourite watering hole for a tasting of the famous local Granit gin or enjoy traditional baked goods at ‘Kerscher’ where recipes are handed from generation to generation for over 100 years
 
Tour Duration: 2 hours
Tour can operate: All day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Light walking tour

Inclusions:

  • Touring with one of our excellent local insiders
  • All taxes
Not Included:
  • Meals
  • Optional admissions and museum licensing fees
  • Tipping at your discretion

Dec 17 Salzburg

Mozart's birthplace and "festival city" of breathtaking scenic beauty, "The Sound of Music" resonates in every alleyway and picture perfect street of Salzburg. One of the most famous cities in the world, Salzburg used to be called "Rome of the North" - because of Italian influence on its architecture and because it was for centuries the major center of religious power in the German world. Today, it is perhaps the best existing example of a Baroque city, a riotously decorative style of architecture. Salzburg's most important attraction is still music and the two festivals, Festpielhause and Easter Festival, which annually transform the city into a music-lovers paradise.

Destination Guide

Dec 17 Cesky Krumlov

Cesky Krumlov is not only a charming medieval town, but also a UNESCO World Heritage site. Dominated by a Castle in the center of town, Ceský Krumlov's cobblestone streets wind along romantic nooks between old patrician houses where you'll find attractive exhibits of world- renown artists, music festivals and concerts, and theatre performances. The cosy restaurants, coffee shops, and ancient taverns entertain a diverse crowd.

Destination Guide

Dec 18 Grein

With its 2,800 inhabitants Grein is one of the smallest towns in Austria. All Gothic buildings were destroyed in a fire in the 15th century. The houses around the city square mostly date back to a time between 1550 and 1600. The city hall houses a magnificent rococo theater. It has largely remained unchanged. It now features summer plays and concerts. On the west side of the town, you will find the Castle Greinburg on the Hohenstein Peak. In 1597, a Renaissance courtyard was added to the building, which is now used for annual concerts and operas in the months of August and September. Grein’s history is closely tied to the Danube River. The city became very wealthy over the centuries, which is evident in its elaborate and beautiful architecture.

Dec 18 Melk

Gateway to the Wachau valley, Melk is world renowned for its magnificent Abbey. One of the most splendid examples of Baroque architecture in Europe, the Abbey dominates the town from high above the Danube river. Admire the splendour of the famous Melk Cross, the Abbey library and the Collegiate Church.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Melk Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Melk and Duernstein, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This tour includes a private tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe's most impressive monasteries, followed by an excursion to the picturesque village of Duernstein, where King Richard the Lionheart of England was formerly held prisoner.

Highlights:

  • Private Tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk
  • City Walk in Duernstein, with its impressive blue church and views up to the castle ruins towering Duernstein
  • Lovely tour through Wachau valley, with its romantic scenery, vineyards, apricot orchards and ruined castles
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Half Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Melk or Duernstein
  • Transfer in a private minivan
  • Private licensed English speaking guide  (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee and private tour at Melk Abbey
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances, other than stated above

 

Melk Shore Excursion: Private Full Day Tour Wachau & Wines, 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This tour includes a private tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, followed by an excursion to the picturesque village of Duernstein, and a visit to the former merchants' town of Krems, crowned by a winery tour and wine tastings.

Highlights:

  • Private Tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk
  • City Walk in Duernstein, with its impressive blue church and views up to the castle ruins towering Duernstein
  • Lovely tour through Wachau valley, with its romantic scenery, vineyards, apricot orchards and ruined castles
  • Visit of former merchants' town Krems
  • Winery Tour and wine tasting at Sandgrube 13 in Krems
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Melk or Duernstein
  • Transfer in a private minivan
  • Private licensed English speaking guide  (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee and private tour at Melk Abbey
  • Sandgrube 13 wine cellar tour and tasting
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances, other than stated above


 

Dec 19 Melk

Gateway to the Wachau valley, Melk is world renowned for its magnificent Abbey. One of the most splendid examples of Baroque architecture in Europe, the Abbey dominates the town from high above the Danube river. Admire the splendour of the famous Melk Cross, the Abbey library and the Collegiate Church.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Melk Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Melk and Duernstein, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This tour includes a private tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe's most impressive monasteries, followed by an excursion to the picturesque village of Duernstein, where King Richard the Lionheart of England was formerly held prisoner.

Highlights:

  • Private Tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk
  • City Walk in Duernstein, with its impressive blue church and views up to the castle ruins towering Duernstein
  • Lovely tour through Wachau valley, with its romantic scenery, vineyards, apricot orchards and ruined castles
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Half Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Melk or Duernstein
  • Transfer in a private minivan
  • Private licensed English speaking guide  (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee and private tour at Melk Abbey
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances, other than stated above

 

Melk Shore Excursion: Private Full Day Tour Wachau & Wines, 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This tour includes a private tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, followed by an excursion to the picturesque village of Duernstein, and a visit to the former merchants' town of Krems, crowned by a winery tour and wine tastings.

Highlights:

  • Private Tour through the Benedictine Abbey of Melk
  • City Walk in Duernstein, with its impressive blue church and views up to the castle ruins towering Duernstein
  • Lovely tour through Wachau valley, with its romantic scenery, vineyards, apricot orchards and ruined castles
  • Visit of former merchants' town Krems
  • Winery Tour and wine tasting at Sandgrube 13 in Krems
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Melk or Duernstein
  • Transfer in a private minivan
  • Private licensed English speaking guide  (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee and private tour at Melk Abbey
  • Sandgrube 13 wine cellar tour and tasting
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances, other than stated above


 

Dec 19 Duernstein

Here in the heart of the beautiful Wachau wine region where vineyards lace softly rolling hills lies Duernstein (Durnstein). See the ruins of Kuenringer Castle where Richard the Lionheart was reputedly held prisoner. Visit the former Collegiate Church. A stroll through medieval cobblestone streets reveals old burgher houses, wine taverns and quaint 16th and 18th century townhouses. Enjoy a wine tasting in one of the many charming taverns.

Destination Guide

Dec 20 Vienna

Vienna is dominated by imperial castles and places: Schonbrunn, the magnificent summer residence, the Imperial Coach Collection, the Palm House, the Butterfly House, Belvedere Palace, magnificent state rooms in Hofburg, and the imperial crown in the Treasury. Stop by Ringstraße - the showplace of the monarchy built where Emperor Franz Joseph ordered the demolition of city walls. Important buildings include the State Opera, the Museums of Fine Arts and Natural History, Parliament, City Hall and Vienna University. The world capital of music. A long line of great composers Johann Strauss, Haydn and Mozart, Beethoven and Schubert, Mahler and Schonberg all worked here. A city with splendid concert halls, such as the Golden Hall, from which the Philharmonic's New Year's Day concert is broadcast annually. International stars love to appear here in the State Opera, Volksoper, Konzerthaus, and at festivals like the Vienna Festival, the Klangbogen concerts during the Musical Summer, the Jazz Festval and the Haydn, Mozart and Schubert festivals.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Vienna Shore Excursion: Private City Walk Vienna's Old Town, 2,5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This interesting city walk offers you an initial overview of the history, culture and achitecture of Vienna, taking you through the most beautiful and elegant streets and passing by some of the most famous sights of the city.
At the end of this tour, you can continue exploring the city centre on your own.

Highlights:

  • The Imperial Palace, residence of the Habsburgs for nearly 650 years (outside)
  • St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Vienna's landmark (outside)
  • State Opera House (outside)
  • the Ringstrasse ('ring road')
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 2,5-3 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Wheelchair Accessible: No

Physical Activity Level: Light to Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up at the landing stage of the cruise ship in Vienna
  • One way transfer in private car from the pier to the city centre
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances
  • Return transfer to the ship (optional service upon extra charge)

Vienna Shore Excursion: Private City Walk Mozart in Vienna, 2,5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
During this city walk "On the Traces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart", you discover Vienna's historic old town, passing by some of the most important locations of Mozart's life. This tour also includes a visit of the Mozart House. At the end of this tour, you can continue exploring the city centre on your own.

Highlights:

  • Vienna's historic old town and former addresses of Mozart (outdoor)
  • Visit of the Mozart House Vienna (indoor visit)
  • St. Stephen's Cathedral (outdoor)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 2,5-3 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light to Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up at the landing stage of the cruise ship in Vienna
  • One way transfer in private car from the pier to the city centre
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee Mozart House (visit with audio-guide)
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
  • Return transfer to the cruise ship (optional service upon extra charge)

 

Vienna Shore Excursion: Private City Walk Imperial Palace, 2,5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This privately guided walking tour through Vienna's historic old town takes you to the Imperial Palace ('Hofburg'), to visit the Imperial Apartments and the fascinating Sisi Museum.

Highlights:

  • Visit of the Imperial Palace and the Imperial Apartments (indoor visit)
  • Visit of the Sisi Museum (indoor visit)
  • Augustinian Church
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 2,5-3 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light to Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up the landing stage of the cruise ship in Vienna
  • One way transfer in private car from the pier to the city centre
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee for the Imperial Palace (Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum)
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
  • Return transfer to the ship (optional service upon extra charge)

Vienna Shore Excursion: Private City Tour of Vienna & Visit of Schoenbrunn Palace, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This privately guided tour shows you the major historical sights along the Ringstrasse, before taking you to the magnificent Schoenbrunn Palace, former summer residence of the Habsburg family.

Highlights:

  • Main sights along the Ringstrasse: e.g. Imperial Palace, National Museums, State Opera, Burgtheater, City Hall, Parliament etc. (outside)
  • Visit of the Schoenbrunn Palace, privately guided tour (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruise ship in Vienna
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee for Schoenbrunn Palace (Highlight Tour)
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Vienna Shore Excursion: Private City Tour Art Nouveau and Viennese Architecture, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
In addition to the familiar Gothic and Baroque buildings, Art Nouveau has a fixed place in Viennese architecture. Naturally, this tour also covers further architecural epoques, such as modernity.

Highlights:

  • Architecturally interesting sights along the Ringstrasse: e.g. Imperial Palace, National Museums, State Opera, City Hall, Parliament etc. (outside)
  • Visit of the Vienna Secession (inside visit)
  • Visit of the Kunst Haus Wien (insde visit)
  • St. Charles's Church (outside)
  • Hundertwasserhaus (outside)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Tuesday to Sunday; Morning or Afternoon
(Vienna Secession is closed on Monday!)

Physical Activity Level: Light to Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruise ship in Vienna
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee for Vienna Secession
  • Entrance fee for Kunst Haus Wien
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Vienna Shore Excursion: Private City Walk & the Lipizzaner Horses, 5 hours — Optional Private Excursions
From Tuesday to Friday (9am-1pm, excl. July), this package covers many interesting aspects of Vienna: Starting with a short Vienna Old Town City Walk, you follow your guide through the old town towards the Spanish Riding School, where you attend the Lippizaner's Morning Exercise, allowing an insight into the training of the Lipizzaner Horses and their riders. At the end of this tour, you can continue exploring the city centre on your own.

Highlights:

  • Overview of the history, culture and architecture of Vienna
  • Vienna's historic old town (outside)
  • Attendance of the Morning Exercise at the Spanish Riding School (inside visit)
  • Coffee break at the famous Café Central
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Tuesday to Friday, 9am - 1pm (excluding July)

Physical Activity Level: Light to Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up at the landing stage of the cruise ship in Vienna
  • One way transfer in private car from the pier to the city centre
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee for the Morning Exercise at the Spanish Riding School
  • Coffee break at Café Demel (1 hot drink, 1 piece of cake)
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities
  • Personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above
  • Return transfer to the ship (optional service upon extra charge)

Dec 21 Bratislava

Bratislava is Slovakia's capital and largest city. The Carpathian Mountains, which begin at the Iron Gate of Romania, finally come to an end here. Vineyards on the slopes of the Little Carpathian Mountains meet the Danube River. The Austrian border is almost within sight of the city and Hungary is less than 15 miles away. Many beautiful monuments survive in the old town to tell of its past under Hungarian rule, and Bratislava's numerous museums are surprisingly rich. Franz Lizst visited Bratislava 15 times, and the opera productions of Slovak National Theatre rival anything in Europe. The old city, which is packed with museums and palaces, and the castle are the best parts of Bratislava - the rest of the city is pretty drab. Climb up the castle for great views and to check out the very interesting Museum of Folk Music within. The Slovak National Museum and the Slovak National Gallery on the river are also worth a visit. Hviezdoslavovo námestie (square) is a convenient orientation point, with the old town to the north, the Danube to the south, and Bratislava Castle to the west.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Bratislava Shore Excursion: Private Half Day City Tour of Bratislava, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Enjoy a lovely guided city walk within the historic centre of Bratislava, followed by an interesting city tour and ride up the city hill to the Bratislava Castle, built in the 9th century - still today one of Bratislava's landmarks.

Highlights:

  • City Walk within the historic centre of Bratislava
  • Main sights and spots, e.g. Old Town Hall, Main Square, St. Martin Cathedral etc.
  • Visit of the Bratislava Castle premises and the Slovak National Museum
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Half Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Bratislava
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide  (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee for Slovak National Museum in Bratislava Castle
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances, other than stated above

Bratislava Shore Excursion: Private Full Day Tour Bratislava & Devin Castle, 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions
Enjoy a lovely guided Bratislava City Walk and City Tour, including a visit of it's landmark, the Bratislava Castle - and rounded up by an excursion to one of the oldest castles in Slovakia, the Devin Castle (located at the confluence of the Danube and Moravia rivers, close to the Austrian border).

Highlights:

  • City Walk within the historic centre of Bratislava
  • Main sights and spots, e.g. Old Town Hall, Main Square, St. Martin Cathedral etc.
  • Visit of the Bratislava Castle premises and the Slovak National Museum
  • Excursion to Devin Castle, located 10km from Bratislava
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Bratislava
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide  (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fee for Slovak National Museum in Bratislava Castle
  • Entrance fee for Devin Castle
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances, other than stated above

Dec 22 Budapest

Caught between eastern and western Europe, Budapest has a character uniquely its own. It's also the last cheap, civilised city in Europe. Budapest can seem like one big sight, with each phase in its history, from the Ottoman period until the Communist days and from renaissance to revolution, leaving its mark on the city. For the tourist, a trip to Hungary's capital is dominated by the majestic sights of Buda. In the summer, there are open-air festivals at Szeged, Diosgyor Castle in Miskolc, Gyor and Pecs. Visit the former Royal Palace complex, the Matyas templom and the Belvaros. Margaret Island is a giant recreational park and feels pleasantly separated from the city bustle. Hungarian National Gallery houses Hungarian art since the birth of the nation. Although Esztergom is Hungary's most sacred city, home of the Archbishop and the nation's biggest church, it has a real-life edge. The first-time visitor to Szeged is invariably struck by its space and grandeur. One's immediate impressions of Hungary's third largest provincial city are of greenery and plazas, of broad.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day City Tour of Budapest, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This privately guided tour shows you the major sights within on the Pest Side (e.g.the Opera House, St. Stephen's Basilica), as well the Buda Side (Castle Hill). One highlight of this tour is an inside visit of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:

  • Heroe's Square, Vajdahunyad Castle (outside)
  • State Opera (outside)
  • St. Stephen's Basilica (outside)
  • Parliament Buidling (outside)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Full Day City Tour of Budapest, 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This extended privately guided full day basically covers all major sights and interesting locations within Budapest, also including inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church and the Parliament Building.

Highlights:

  • Main sights, e.g. National Museum, State Opera, Heroe's Square, Great Synagogue, Central Market Hall, Gellért Hill, Citatel, Vajdahunyad Castle etc. (outside visits)
  • Various Bridges above the Danube, e.g. Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge etc.
  • Matthias Church (inside visit)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (inside visit)
  • Parliament Building (inside visit)
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church, Parliament
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Budapest Castle District, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
During this privately guided tour, you visit the Castle Hill of Budapest, with the Royal and Presidential Palaces, fascinating squares and medieval cobblestone streets. Highlights are inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:

  • Budapest's Castle Hill
  • Royal and Presidential Palaces (outside)
  • Holy Trinity Square
  • Hess András Square
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church of Our Lady (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Dec 23 Budapest

Caught between eastern and western Europe, Budapest has a character uniquely its own. It's also the last cheap, civilised city in Europe. Budapest can seem like one big sight, with each phase in its history, from the Ottoman period until the Communist days and from renaissance to revolution, leaving its mark on the city. For the tourist, a trip to Hungary's capital is dominated by the majestic sights of Buda. In the summer, there are open-air festivals at Szeged, Diosgyor Castle in Miskolc, Gyor and Pecs. Visit the former Royal Palace complex, the Matyas templom and the Belvaros. Margaret Island is a giant recreational park and feels pleasantly separated from the city bustle. Hungarian National Gallery houses Hungarian art since the birth of the nation. Although Esztergom is Hungary's most sacred city, home of the Archbishop and the nation's biggest church, it has a real-life edge. The first-time visitor to Szeged is invariably struck by its space and grandeur. One's immediate impressions of Hungary's third largest provincial city are of greenery and plazas, of broad.

Destination Guide

Excursions

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day City Tour of Budapest, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This privately guided tour shows you the major sights within on the Pest Side (e.g.the Opera House, St. Stephen's Basilica), as well the Buda Side (Castle Hill). One highlight of this tour is an inside visit of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:

  • Heroe's Square, Vajdahunyad Castle (outside)
  • State Opera (outside)
  • St. Stephen's Basilica (outside)
  • Parliament Buidling (outside)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Full Day City Tour of Budapest, 8 hours — Optional Private Excursions
This extended privately guided full day basically covers all major sights and interesting locations within Budapest, also including inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church and the Parliament Building.

Highlights:

  • Main sights, e.g. National Museum, State Opera, Heroe's Square, Great Synagogue, Central Market Hall, Gellért Hill, Citatel, Vajdahunyad Castle etc. (outside visits)
  • Various Bridges above the Danube, e.g. Chain Bridge, Liberty Bridge, Elisabeth Bridge etc.
  • Matthias Church (inside visit)
  • Fishermen's Bastion (inside visit)
  • Parliament Building (inside visit)
Your guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 8 hours

Tour can operate: Full Day

Physical Activity Level: Moderate

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion, Matthias Church, Parliament
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Budapest Shore Excursion: Private Half Day Tour Budapest Castle District, 4 hours — Optional Private Excursions
During this privately guided tour, you visit the Castle Hill of Budapest, with the Royal and Presidential Palaces, fascinating squares and medieval cobblestone streets. Highlights are inside visits of the Fishermen's Bastion and the impressive Matthias Church.

Highlights:

  • Budapest's Castle Hill
  • Royal and Presidential Palaces (outside)
  • Holy Trinity Square
  • Hess András Square
  • Fishermen's Bastion (entry to upper terrace)
  • Matthias Church of Our Lady (indoor visit)
Your private guide is always flexible and adapts the tour according to your special interests.

Tour Duration: 4 hours

Tour can operate: Morning or Afternoon

Physical Activity Level: Light

Inclusions:
  • Pick up and drop off at the landing stage of the cruising ship in Budapest
  • Transfer in a private car
  • Private licensed English speaking guide (other languages available, but on request)
  • Entrance fees for Fishermen's Bastion and Matthias Church
Not included:
  • Meals
  • Gratuities and personal expenses
  • Entrances other than stated above

Cabin Categories

Balcony Stateroom
Balcony Stateroom

Balcony

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These 210-square-foot cabins located at the back of the Main Deck feature floor-to-ceiling windows, sash window balcony and quiet sleep sound cancellation system. The cabins each have a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library and ample storage including two wardrobes. Amenities include Wi-Fi, unlimited tea/coffee, bathrobe and slippers, hair dryer and sustainable bath products in the ensuite bathroom.

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Balcony Stateroom
Balcony Stateroom

Balcony

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These 210-square-foot cabins located at the front of the Main Deck feature floor-to-ceiling windows, sash window balcony and quiet sleep sound cancellation system. The cabins each have a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library and ample storage including two wardrobes. Amenities include Wi-Fi, unlimited tea/coffee, bathrobe and slippers, hair dryer and sustainable bath products in the ensuite bathroom. Two category C2 cabins can be combined into a category S2 Suite.

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Balcony Stateroom
Balcony Stateroom

Balcony

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These 210-square-foot cabins located at the back of the Upper Deck feature floor-to-ceiling windows, sash window balcony and quiet sleep sound cancellation system. The cabins each have a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library and ample storage including two wardrobes. Amenities include Wi-Fi, unlimited tea/coffee, bathrobe and slippers, hair dryer and sustainable bath products in the ensuite bathroom. Two category C3 cabins can be combined into a category S3 Suite.

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Balcony Stateroom
Balcony Stateroom

Balcony

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These 210-square-foot cabins located at the front of the Upper Deck feature floor-to-ceiling windows, sash window balcony and quiet sleep sound cancellation system. The cabins each have a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library and ample storage including two wardrobes. Amenities include Wi-Fi, unlimited tea/coffee, bathrobe and slippers, hair dryer and sustainable bath products in the ensuite bathroom. Two category C4 cabins can be combined into a category S4 Suite.

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Suite
Suite

Suite

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These one-bedroom suites are located at the front of the Main Deck and offer 420 square feet of thoughtfully designed space, including a separate sitting room with comfortable lounge seating. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sash window balconies provide panoramic views. The bedroom features a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), plus a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library, and ample storage with four wardrobes. The ensuite bathroom includes sustainable bath products, a hair dryer, bathrobe and slippers. Additional amenities include Wi-Fi and unlimited tea/coffee.
Please note: This suite includes one bedroom only. Twin bed configuration will place both beds in the same room.

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Suite
Suite

Suite

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These one-bedroom suites are located at the back of the Upper Deck and offer 420 square feet of space, featuring a separate sitting room ideal for relaxing after a day of exploration. Floor-to-ceiling windows and sash window balconies connect you with the scenery. The bedroom includes a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), along with a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library, and four wardrobes. The ensuite bathroom is stocked with sustainable bath products and includes a hair dryer, bathrobe and slippers. Wi-Fi and unlimited tea/coffee are included.
Please note: This suite includes one bedroom only. Twin bed configuration will place both beds in the same room.

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Suite
Suite

Suite

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These one-bedroom suites are located at the front of the Upper Deck and provide 420 square feet of well-appointed space, including a separate sitting room with lounge seating. Large floor-to-ceiling windows and sash window balconies create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection. The bedroom includes a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), plus a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library, and four wardrobes. The ensuite bathroom features sustainable bath products, bathrobe and slippers, and a hair dryer. Wi-Fi and unlimited tea/coffee are included.
Please note: This suite includes one bedroom only. Twin bed configuration will place both beds in the same room.

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Family Suite
Family Suite

Suite

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These spacious two-bedroom family suites are located at the back of the Main Deck and offer 420 square feet of well-appointed living space. Each bedroom features floor-to-ceiling windows, sash window balconies, and a quiet sleep sound cancellation system for maximum comfort. Bedrooms include a European king bed or two twin beds (configured upon request), a 55-inch smart TV, desk and chair, minibar, individual climate control, mini library, and ample storage with four wardrobes. The ensuite bathroom is equipped with sustainable bath products, a hair dryer, bathrobe and slippers. Wi-Fi and unlimited tea/coffee are included.
Please note: This suite can accommodate up to four guests.

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Terms & Additional Information

Prices are per person and include cabin fare, taxes, fees, excursions and all meals while onboard.  Airfare is available at an additional charge unless otherwise stated.

Price is per person, double occupancy.

Cost Includes: All accommodations aboard ships or in hotels per itinerary or similar, all meals and nonalcoholic beverages aboard ship, meals on land as indicated, air transportation where indicated as included, shore excursions, sightseeing and entrance fees, special access permits, transfers to and from group flights, use of snorkeling equipment and wet suits, use of kayaks (where available), tips (except to ship’s crew), taxes and service charges, services of a ship physician on most voyages, and services of our expedition staff.

Not Included: Air transportation (except where shown as included), extensions, passport, visa, immigration fees, scuba diving (where available), meals not indicated, baggage/accident/travel protection plan, items of a personal nature, such as alcoholic beverages, e-mail, laundry. Gratuities to ship’s crew at your discretion.

All fares are quoted in US Dollars.

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