Get in the spirit of the holiday season while capturing the imperial history of Old-World Europe along the Danube River as it flourished beneath towering fortresses and inspired legendary composers such as Mozart and Strauss. Follow their famous melodies through the Danube Bend and the river's legendary capitals: Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, the “City of Waltzes,” encountering fascinating architecture, captivating legends and the storied sites where great composers lived, worked and performed. Along the way, deepen your passion for music while being treated to a variety of live performances, including in or around Melk’s golden-hued Benedictine abbey. Plus, delight in seasonal decor and traditions both on board and on shore, including a festive Christmas Market or two. As you glide along the Danube River on your way back towards Budapest, remember the figures of the past that left their mark along this fascinating European waterway.
Discover the imperial history and the royals who once ruled along the banks of the storied Danube River. Begin your journey with our pre-cruise land package in Budapest, during which you will discover the city’s rich Jewish heritage. After boarding your river cruise ship, spend more time in Budapest and perhaps hike to Buda Castle to revel in the breathtaking views overlooking the city. Explore Bratislava, the former “Coronation City of the Kings,” and the former summer residence of the Habsburg Dynasty at Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna. Gaze in wonder at the elaborate interiors of the golden-hued Melk Abbey, originally built as a palace but later gifted to the Benedictine Monks who now call the abbey home. And as you glide around the Danube Bend on your way back towards Budapest, remember the figures and legends of the past that left their mark along this fascinating European waterway.