Compare Heart of the Danube: Bavaria to Budapest - Eastbound 2021 by Tauck vs Christmas Markets of Central Europe - Small Group, Winter 2023 2024 by Insight Vacations
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Trip |
4 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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Duration | 8 days | 14 days |
Price From | $ 3,990 | $ 4,295 |
Price Per Day | $ 499 | $ 307 |
Highlights |
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Trip Style | River cruise | Group tour |
Lodging Level | Premium | Premium |
Physical Level |
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Travel Themes |
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Countries Visited | ||
Cities and Attractions |
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Flights & Transport | No | No |
Activities |
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Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
Description |
Experience the scenic, romantic soul of old-world Europe on this river cruise along the Danube. Wind through dramatic river landscapes to discoveries in Regensburg, Grein, Dürnstein, Bratislava, Passau or Cesky Krumlov, capped by a sumptuous gala evening at a Viennese Palace. |
Add some one-of-a-kind gems to your gift list at the Christmas markets in Vienna, Munich and Ljubljana. This 13-day Christmas shopping extravaganza takes in the 500-year-old Salzburg Christmas Market, Mozart’s family home and a mouthwatering array of Viennese desserts. Visit Neuschwanstein Castle in Bavaria, reputed to have been the inspiration for a certain spin off at Disneyworld, and dine out in Vienna with lashings of Austrian specialties filling the table at a Restaurant Dinner. In Ljubljana, follow your Travel Director on an eye-opening tour of the Slovenian capital before tasting some truly scrumptious, Slovenian Christmas delicacies. From Zagreb take a funicular to the idyllic town of Gornji Grad and board a cave train in Postojna to explore a stunning underground world. |
Day 1 Arrive Munich & embark ship
Tour begins: 5:30 PM. A transfer is included from Munich International Airport directly to your riverboat, where embarkation begins at 4:00 PM. Settle in aboard ship and then meet your fellow river cruisers this evening at a welcome cocktail reception followed by dinner. Your riverboat sets off for Regensburg this evening.
MEALS : D
LODGING : ms Joy
PORTOFCALL : Munich, Germany
Day 2 Historic insights in Regensburg
Greet your first full day on the beautiful Danube River with a choice of sightseeing excursions in colorful Regensburg; one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval towns, it boasts more than 1,400 historic structures. You may choose a walking tour of town that includes the Dom (cathedral), the market, the town hall, and 12th-century Steinerne Brücke (a medieval stone bridge over the Danube that’s the oldest surviving bridge of its kind in the country), and a guided visit to St. Emmeram Palace – royal residence of Thurn und Taxis, the family dynasty whose fortune began in the 16th century and is the largest in Germany today. The castle, formerly a Benedictine abbey, is lush with Baroque features and frescoes, from the throne room to the ballroom and magnificent library, with displays of splendid art treasures, weaponry and fine porcelain – you can’t see it all, of course, since the family still lives here! Your second choice is a guided bicycle excursion in and around Regensburg that includes a ride and visit to the nearby Walhalla memorial, a massive hilltop hall of fame (with many featuring busts and sculptures of distinguished figures from Germany history), commissioned by King Ludwig I and completed in the 1840s. Return to the ship this afternoon for time at leisure; tonight, sail for Passau.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Joy
PORTOFCALL : Regensburg, Germany
Day 3 Exploring Passau or Cesky Krumlov
Your riverboat arrives in Passau today for a choice of sightseeing in this riverside town in Germany, or an excursion to Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic. Once a Roman outpost at the confluence of three rivers, Passau is over 2,500 years old, a quintessential Bavarian town of pastel patrician houses, cafés, romantic cobblestone lanes and riverfront promenades, made for walking (many streets are closed to traffic). If you choose to stay in Passau, your walking tour immerses you in its storybook mix of Roman, Italian Baroque and German Gothic architecture. See St. Stephen’s Cathedral; view the hilltop fortress where Passau’s prince-bishops once resided; and peruse the 14th-century Rathaus (Town Hall). Later, if you wish, join your Tauck Director for a brisk walk to a hilltop fortress, or attend a public concert on the famous organ of St. Stephen's Cathedral, when available. Alternatively, travel to Cesky Krumlov, an incredibly well-preserved medieval town in a landscape of exceptional beauty. Your walking tour includes Krumlov Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in Central Europe, embracing 40 buildings and palaces of medieval, Renaissance and Rococo designs, plus numerous courtyards and gardens. Return to the riverboat and enjoy the chef's signature dinner tonight as you cruise to Grein.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Joy
PORTOFCALL : Passau, Germany
Day 4 Grein or the Mauthausen Memorial
Arrive in the typically picturesque riverside village of Grein, Austria, for a choice of sightseeing in Grein or a visit to the Mauthausen Memorial. Your visit begins with a guided walking tour of the village, which includes views of the Grein Theatre – since 1791 the oldest operating theatre in Austria – and the historic town square with the adjacent Gothic St. Giles Church, known for its fine altar and stained glass. If you wish, visit Schloss Greinburg, the privately owned castle of the Ducal House of Saxe-Coburg and Gotha, showcasing the history and lifestyle of one of the most significant ruling families in Europe (including Queen Victoria of England). Alternatively, pay a poignant guided visit to the museum and memorial on the site of the infamous World War II-era Mauthausen–Gusen concentration camp, approximately 20 kilometers east of Grien. You’ll tour the camp’s main complex, preserved as a museum and memorial to the victims of the last major concentration camp liberated by the Allies. Back aboard the riverboat, enjoy dinner and local entertainment tonight.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Joy
Day 5 Dürnstein, cycling & on to Vienna
This morning, your riverboat docks in Dürnstein, in Austria's Wachau Valley, which offers you a choice of unforgettable sightseeing excursions. You may choose to explore the picture-perfect Austrian village of Dürnstein on a guided walking tour, with free time on your own – maybe a climb up to the brooding ruins of Kuenringerburg Castle high above the town. Another possibility is a challenging bicycling excursion (not suitable for beginners) through the Wachau Valley, starting and ending in Dürnstein or a walking tour of Krems. Rejoin the boat for lunch, and set off on a leisurely, breathtakingly scenic river cruise to Austria's capital, Vienna; enjoy entertainment in the lounge after dinner tonight.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Joy
PORTOFCALL : Dürnstein, Austria
Day 6 Imperial Vienna & a night at the Palace
You have three morning sightseeing choices today, all preceded by a tour of Vienna's landmark sights: a visit to the remarkable Belvedere Palace, visits to the Imperial Treasury (the Schatzkammer) in the Hofburg, displaying priceless treasures from the House of Habsburg, including the Austrian Crown Jewels and the Imperial Crown of the Holy Roman Empire; or a visit to the House of Music (Haus der Musik), featuring imaginative interactive exhibits on famous composers (where you can actually “conduct” the Vienna Philharmonic). After lunch aboard the riverboat or in town, your afternoon is free to explore more of this amazing city – once the capital of the Habsburgs' Austro-Hungarian Empire – on your own. Later, join us this evening at Palais Pallavicini for a Tauck Exclusive – a gala evening of dining and musical performances in elegant Viennese style. The sumptuous surroundings of Palais Pallavicini (built in 1784), with its ornate decor and magnificent state rooms, will transport you to another time – in fact, the palace facade is famous in another cultural reference... as the location of Harry Lime’s (Orson Welles) apartment in the classic film The Third Man.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Joy
PORTOFCALL : Vienna, Austria
Day 7 A day of choice in and around Bratislava, Slovakia
A choice of activities await this morning in or near Bratislava, Slovakia's visually intriguing capital city. One is a walking tour of the cobblestoned, vehicle-free historic center of Bratislava; medieval, Baroque and modern architecture mix as you visit sites that include the 13th-century Old Town Hall, Baroque Habsburg-era palaces, the Opera House, Slovak Philharmonic Hall, St. Michael’s Gate, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and the Primate’s Palace, where you’ll view rare 17th-century British tapestries. Another is an excursion to the countryside, lush with vineyards, for a wine-tasting and a visit to Cerveny Kamen Castle. Dating back to the 13th century, "The Red Stone Castle" is one of the best-preserved castles in Slovakia, boasting historical furnishings and artwork; during your visit, enjoy a falconry demonstration. Prior to departure this afternoon, our local expert offers inside information and anecdotes on Bratislava. Back aboard ship, have lunch and settle in for an afternoon at leisure. Join us this evening for dinner as your riverboat heads to Budapest.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Joy
PORTOFCALL : Bratislava, Slovakia
Day 8 Journey home
Tour ends: Budapest, Hungary. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from the riverboat to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport; you should allow a minimum of three hours for flight check-in at the airport.
MEALS : B
PORTOFCALL : Budapest, Hungary
Day 1: Welcome to Zagreb
Transfers to your hotel depart from Zagreb airport at 11:30 and 14:00. Relax and settle in or perhaps head for the nearby King Tomislav Square and try ice skating. At 17:30, join your Travel Director for a Welcome Dinner with the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers over a pleasant evening with wine.
Sheraton Zagreb Hotel.
Dinner with Wine
Day 2: Zagreb Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Join your Local Expert to explore the two-tiered capital of Croatia. Drive through the squares of the Lower Town, Donji Grad, designed to give a sense of grandeur. See the Mimara Art Museum in Roosevelt Square and continue to Ban Josip Jelacic Square en route to the cathedral. Board the city's funicular to the medieval Upper Town, Gornji Grad. It's a network of little streets, stretching between the Kaptol and Gradec hills. View the former Presidential Palace, Stone Gate, St. Mark's Church and the Lotrščak Tower. The afternoon is at leisure. Discover the city’s Christmas markets or perhaps take an Optional Experience to the Zagorje region to learn about the local traditions and visit the house of Marshall Tito?
Sheraton Zagreb Hotel.
Breakfast
Day 3: The Postojna Caves and Ljubljana
Leave the Croatian capital and head to neighbouring Slovenia and visit the world-famous Postojna Caves. Step aboard the cave train and descend into a subterranean world of stunning stalactites, stalagmites, columns and curtains. Marvel at the five-metre tall Brilliant, the cave's most beautiful stalagmite. Later, arrive to charming Ljubljana and tonight enjoy a dinner of Slovenian specialities with wine.
Hotel Lev Ljubljana.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 4: Ljubljana Sightseeing Relaxed Start
Your Local Expert will reveal the Baroque elegance of the Slovenian capital. The medieval castle stands as an ancient guardian, the City Hall and Cathedral of St. Nicholas testify to its historical importance, while the Triple Bridge spans the river adorned with cafes and restaurants. Spend time at the Christmas markets, rich with the heady aromas of sweet treats and drinks.Meet Urban Modic, the local artist who designs Ljubljana's Christmas lights, for an insight into the city's famous decorations. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure.
Hotel Lev Ljubljana.
Breakfast
Day 5: The Slovakian Capital of Bratislava
Today’s journey takes you through Austria. In Graz see the Castle Hill and Town Hall in the well-preserved, UNESCO World Heritage listed historic city centre on your orientation. Walk among colourful buildings, take a stroll along River Mur and explore the festive market stalls. Travel past the Foot of the Alps as you make your way towards Bratislava. Spend your night in the charming Slovakian capital and take a walk in the Old Town to sample the delicious offerings of the Christmas markets.
Crowne Plaza Bratislava.
Breakfast
Day 6: Bratislava Sightseeing and Vienna
Bratislava might be one of the smaller capitals in Europe but it has a long and rich history influenced by various cultures and nations. Explore Bratislava with Insight Choice. Choose to join a Local Expert to see the main sights of the city. Enjoy the vistas form the Bratislava Castle then take a walk in the charming Old Town among 19th century palaces and see the Slovak National Theatre, Michael’s Gate and the Old Town Hall. Alternatively, an avid foodie takes you around the market on a Christmas food tour. Enjoy time at leisure and maybe try some of the Slovakian dishes for lunch before travelling to nearby imperial Vienna.
Hilton Vienna Park.
Breakfast
Day 7: Vienna Sightseeing
Explore Vienna with Insight Choice. Tour Schönbrunn Palace and marvel at its frescoed ceilings, crystal chandeliers and gilded ornaments. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience during an inclusive workshop and take to the floor in a Viennese Waltz dance workshop designed to support the visually impaired community. Then ready your camera for a dazzling drive around the famous Ring Road. This grand boulevard, built along the lines of the old city walls, showcases many of the capital’s architectural masterpieces, including the Opera House, magnificent Hofburg Imperial Residence, Austrian Parliament Building and the Neo Gothic Town Hall. The afternoon is at yours to explore the historic core of the city and the offerings of the many Christmas markets. Tonight, savour a meal of Austrian specialities at a local restaurant.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 8: To Enchanting Salzburg Relaxed Start
Journey through the rich farmlands of eastern Austria towards the lakes and mountains of the Salzkammergut and the enchanting city of Salzburg.
ARCOTEL Castellani, Salzburg.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 9: The City of Mozart Relaxed Start
Come December, the spires and domes of Salzburg’s old town are often draped in snow. Walk with your Local Expert to see Mozart’s family home on the Getreidegasse, beautifully decorated at this time of year. Visit Mozart's birthplace to learn more about his life, and sit down to a musical demonstration on his original pianoforte. Then head on to the rosy hues of the 500-year-old Christmas Market in front of the cathedral. Culinary delicacies, candied fruits, hot mulled wine and the lovingly decorated stalls invite visitors to stop and browse. Here your Travel Director will introduce you to a market stallholder to enjoy sampling a Viennese winter dessert, complemented perfectly with a traditional fragrant glass of Glühwein.
ARCOTEL Castellani, Salzburg.
Breakfast
Day 10: A Scenic Drive to Innsbruck Relaxed Start
A lovely drive brings you to the Inn Valley and the mountain-ringed Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. Explore Innsbruck with Insight Choice, perhaps join a horse & carriage ride or visit the magical world of Swarovski Crystal. In the evening, enjoy a traditional meal accompanied by local Tyrolean entertainment and music.
AC Hotel Innsbruck.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 11: Neuschwanstein and Oberammergau
Travel to the fairy-tale castle of Neuschwanstein, perched on a spectacular Alpine mountainside. With a Local Expert, visit the exuberantly decorated apartments, including the Throne Room, before continuing into the beautiful scenery of the German Alps to visit Oberammergau, home of the Passion Play since 1634. See the immense theatre and admire the colourful painted chalets before driving on to the Bavarian capital of Munich. Please note: Neuschwanstein Castle visits require a good level of mobility due to the number of stairs in the building and uphill, on-foot access to the castle during winter. Those who do not wish to ascend to the castle can enjoy a coffee and cake, while admiring the beautiful castle vista.
Munich Marriott Hotel.
Breakfast
Day 12: Munich Relaxed Start
Enjoy an orientation of the city which concludes in Marienplatz beside the soaring Town Hall, famous for its Glockenspiel. Beneath the gigantic Christmas tree, Munich’s traditional Christmas Market is an entrancing festival of light and music. In the evening, join your travelling companions at a local restaurant for a festive Celebration Dinner with wine and good cheer!
Munich Marriott Hotel.
Breakfast, Dinner with Wine
Day 13: Auf Wiedersehen Munich!
Your departure transfer arrives at Munich Airport at 07:00 and 09:00.
Breakfast