Overview
In Melk, you will visit Austria’s majestic Benedictine read more Abbey, one of Europe’s largest monasteries, sitting high above the breathtaking views of the Danube River and surrounding countryside. Cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley and spend free time in Dürnstein, , known for the striking blue façade of its baroque Stiftskirche below the castle ruins where England’s King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192.
After your cruise, spend two nights in Vienna, with guided sightseeing selections and free time to explore the capital of Austria at your own pace Perhaps visit the famous Sacher Hotel for a taste of Sachertorte (a special chocolate cake), and stroll along the famous pedestrian street of Kärntnerstrasse.
Itinerary
Welcome to Hungary. Your Suite Ship is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Budapest must arrive by 2 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. Spend free time strolling along the cobblestone streets, browsing art galleries, sipping coffee, and sampling sweets before boarding your Danube cruise for a welcome dinner this evening.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BRATISLAVA (D)
Cathedral Coronations and a Crowning Castle
Visit the Adventure centre for today's activities with your Adventure Host.
- Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a scenic walk to Bratislava Castle, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Old Town's cobblestone streets to Town Hall. Visit the Gothic halls of St. Martin's Cathedral - Hungary's centuries-old coronation church.
Alternatively, take a bicycle and a picnic from the ship to explore the local sights along the Danube on your own.
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MELK (B/L/D)
Frescoes Above and Vineyards Below
- Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a Morning Hike through Melk's beautiful countryside, OR:
- Classic: Join a morning Guided Sightseeing Tour of Melk's 11th-century Benedictine Abbey. Explore its frescoes, statues, library, and spectacular pipe organ in the monastery's lofty perch above the Danube.
Take a relaxing break on the Sky Deck as you sail through awe-inspiring views of the Wachau Valley and the wine region surrounding Durnstein.
DURNSTEIN: A King's Ransom and Castle Ruins
Spend free time at your leisure, perhaps biking through the vineyards in the Wachau Valley. Later, enjoy onboard entertainment by local musicians.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIENNA (B/L/D)
Viennese Waltzes on the Blue Danube
- Discovery: Take an Early Riser Walking Tour that includes breakfast at a Viennese cafe followed by an exclusive viewing of the Habsburg family's private art collection at the Museum of Fine Arts - the perfect start to your stay in Vienna, OR:
- Classic: Explore the Habsburg empire with a morning Guided City Tour of Vienna's gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex - the winter residence of the Imperial Family, the iconic Vienna Opera House and stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral. (B)
Vienna Favourites - Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel
Enjoy a free day to explore the city at your own pace. Take a tram ride to discover the adventure, tradition, and Viennese charm of The Prater amusement park. You may also consider to visiting one of Vienna's marvelous museums. Or indulge your sweet tooth with authentic Austrian pastries in a local bakery. (B)
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Life On Board
Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.
Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships. Read more
With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more
Avalon features all the right inclusions which compliment your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more
Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more
Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travelers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more
Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more
Prices & Dates
There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and is not operating this season. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view general release dates for all destinations.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
