Overview
Itinerary
Tour begins: 5:00 PM, Budapest. A transfer is included from Budapest's Ferenc Liszt Airport or Keleti train station to your riverboat. Meet your fellow travelers and Tauck Directors, and learn about the upcoming days, ahead at a welcome toast this evening prior to your first dinner aboard ship. Stay Nine Nights: Tauck River Ship (D)
Budapest is split into "Buda" and "Pest" by the Danube River. This morning, explore the Pest side of the city on a tour including City Park and Heroes' Square – bounded by some of the finest architectural works in Hungary – and a special visit to the opulent State Opera House, opened in 1884, with its royal boxes, gilded vaulted ceiling, exquisite murals and three-ton chandelier.
Later, you have a choice of walking tours that focuses in Budapest. The afternoon is free for you to pursue what interests you most. Budapest has acquired quite an excellent reputation for cuisine; tonight's special welcome cocktail reception and dinner is at the grand Akadémia Club in the Hungarian Academy of Sciences. (B/L/D)
Head up to Castle Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site overlooking the Danube on the Buda side of the city, for a choice of sightseeing. Enjoy a guided visit to the Hungarian Parliament, the third largest parliament building in the world.
Afterward, embark on a themed walking tour with your local guide that focuses on sites and events involved in the 1956 Hungarian Revolution during the Cold War "Iron Curtain" era, including stops at Parliament Square, the Embassy and St. Stephen's Basilica (Bazilika). Alternatively, visit the famed Szechenyi Bath Spa. Reboard your riverboat this afternoon, and begin to cruise the Danube River, bound for Bratislava, Slovakia. (B/L/D)
Our resident expert takes you inside contemporary Slovakia and Bratislava for a look at the region's politics, economy, religion, social order, preservation and emergence of the arts.
After lunch aboard the riverboat, you'll have a choice of exploring Bratislava's cobblestoned, vehicle-free historic city center on a walking tour – seeing 17 centuries of history eloquently chronicled in its 13th-century Old Town Hall, Baroque Habsburg-era palaces, the Opera House, Slovak Philharmonic Hall, and Hviezdosalv Square – or setting off on a bicycling excursion through the city's "Iron Curtain Area." Back on board the riverboat, dinner tonight introduces you to a glimpse of daily life in Slovakia with a taste of regional cuisine and an a performance by a talented troupe of Slovak dancers. (B/L/D)
Your riverboat arrives this morning in Vienna, Austria, where our local guides join you for a choice city sightseeing. A drive along the Ringstrasse is followed by a choice of walking tours in Vienna complimented with samplings of the local cuisine. An afternoon at leisure lets you explore the city as you please, including outstanding museums, the historic Vienna Prater amusement park, and more.
Please Note: To preserve your sightseeing experience in Vienna and maximize our time there, we may rotate our activities on Days 5 and 6 on some departures. Your Tauck Director will advise accordingly. (B/L/D)
A choice of sightseeing this morning features a tour of the Habsburgs' Schönbrunn Palace, an architectural masterpiece and Austrian cultural treasure, or Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien, one of the world's most acclaimed art museums located in a palatial building on the historic Ringstrasse.
After an afternoon at leisure to explore Vienna as you wish, join us this evening, we invite you to attend our private Imperial Evening in the opulent Palais Pallavicini, a private Baroque palace in Vienna that film buffs may have spotted in the 1940s film noir classic The Third Man. Welcome cocktails and dinner precede an unforgettable evening of musical performance celebrating the legacy of the composers who made Vienna Europe's center of music during the Habsburg era.
Tonight, your ship charts a course toward Durnstein. (B/L/D)
Wake up in Dürnstein for a closer look at its 16th-century Baroque houses and 13th-century Romanesque church on a walking tour along cobblestone streets; you may also choose to tour a local monastery followed by a wine tasting at an authentic Austrian tavern, or take a bicycle ride.
Enjoy some free time in this charming riverside town, perhaps taking an invigorating climb up the steps to the ruins of Kuenringerburg, a hilltop castle above the town where Richard the Lionhearted was held for ransom during the Crusades. Back aboard, you'll continue to cruise the Danube River through the Wachau Valley, Austria's lush wine-growing region that was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved medieval landscapes, to Linz; after the Chef's Signature dinner onboard, enjoy a show put on by members of the riverboat crew. (B/L/D)
Your boat stays docked in Linz today, with a choice of how you spend your day – full-day excursions to Salzburg (Austria), or Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or remaining in Linz. A setting for The Sound of Music, a Salzburg walking tour explores Old Town, Mirabell Gardens, and Mozart's birthplace.; enjoy time on your own to have lunch and experience the sights as you wish.
Alternatively, travel to Cesky Krumlov; graced with an incredibly well-preserved medieval heritage and charming ambiance, the town has earned its coveted designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historic importance and physical beauty. A walking tour takes you to part of Krumlov Castle; it's worth climbing the many steps to see firsthand the medieval, Renaissance and Rococo design found inside, along with the stunning views of the town below. Return to the riverboat for dinner followed by an evening performance by the classical trio, Donau 3Klang. (B/L/D)
Wake up this morning in Engelhartszell, a pretty town on the Danube in Upper Austria.
After a visit to a local private home (and a taste of local cake, sweets and coffee), you'll have a choice of a walking tour of town including 18th-century Engelhartszell Abbey and Danube World, through which ships navigate through the Wachau Valley (please note, there may be ongoing renovations in progress).
Following lunch aboard the riverboat, you may, if you wish, join us for an optional bicycle excursion along the Danube (a fairly rigorous bike ride, for experienced cyclists only). Take in the views from the sun deck, lounge, or the windows of your outside cabin as your riverboat glides into Germany, bound tonight for your final destination, Vilshofen; enjoy a farewell toast followed by dinner onboard this evening. (B/L/D)
Disembark your ship in Vilshofen for a choice of excursions. One brings you to the Bavarian town of Regensburg for a walking tour led by a local guide that visits the Steinerne Brücke (a medieval stone bridge over the Danube), towering Dom St. Peter, and the remains of the town's Roman wall before venturing to Prague. Alternatively, journey to Prague for a visit to one of its hidden gems - the Strahov Monastery! Your time here also includes a short walk through Hradcany Castle, the largest ancient castle in the world.
Following your excursion, enjoy a light lunch and check into your hotel in Prague, capital of the Czech Republic and the "City of 100 Spires." The remainder of the day is free; the city's many fine restaurants and cafés feature a wide range of cuisines... and some of the best schnitzels, goulashes, strudels, dumplings and beer the region has to offer. Stay Two Nights: Andaz Prague (B/L)
Your explorations of Prague start this morning with a choice of walking tours through Prague's ethereal Old Town. You'll have the option to choose between either a longer tour featuring the Charles Bridge and longer stops at the Old Town's numerous historical sites; an abbreviated version of that same tour, ending in the the Old Town Square for time to explore the city on your own or, you may choose to embark on a walking tour of the city's poignant Jewish sites in Josefov, the historic Jewish Quarter (ask at booking about dates that cannot visit inside the Jewish Heritage sites as they are closed Saturdays and on Jewish holidays; in those cases, alternate sightseeing will be offered).
Tonight, cap a memorable trip with a truly royal evening that's another Tauck Exclusive; join us for a farewell reception, tour and dinner at 16th-century Lobkowicz Palace at Prague Castle. Immerse in an evening of classical cultural treasures – and see for yourself how music and art played an important role in the aristocratic world of the Lobkowicz family. (B/D)
Tour ends: Prague, Czech Republic. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Andaz Prague to Praha Hlavni Nadrazi train station or Václav Havel Airport Prague. Please allow a minimum of 3 hours for check-in. (B)
Trip Inclusions
- Private Imperial Evening at a palace in Vienna featuring a gala dinner and Viennese performers
- Private aperitif and dinner in Prague at Lobkowicz Palace, Prague Castle
- A private tour of Prague's Baroque libraries, Strahov Monastery
- Two nights each in Prague and Budapest at centrally located hotels in the heart of the cities
- Choice in Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace or the Imperial Apartments at the Hofburg
- Included/escorted bicycle rides
- Choice of a full day in Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov
- All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director
- All private Tauck shore excursions
- Evenings of local performing artists and classical music aboard the riverboat
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
- 30 included meals (11 breakfasts, 9 lunches, 10 dinners)
- Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks.
- Select meals in local restaurants; service charges, taxes, porterage, and applicable fuel surcharges
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Life Onboard MS Esprit
Set sail on the Rhine, Moselle or Danube aboard aboard MS Esprit, andenjoy Tauck's all-inclusive luxury as you glide past castles, vineyards and timeless riverside towns. Read more
Carefree river cruising with everything included in one upfront price. If it means a better travel experience for our guests, Tauck include it! Read more
From the moment you arrive to the moment you return home, Tauck's team of Tauck Directors, Cruise Directors & local guides are there to ensure everything runs smoothly. Read more
Deck Plans
Cabins
Measuring 150 sq. ft., these staterooms offer a cosy, well-designed space without a balcony. Two European twin beds (200 cm x 156 cm combined) can be separated and allow under-bed storage for four suitcases. Furnishings include read more two chairs, a built-in desk, a closet with drawers, and bedding with 400 thread count cotton linens and mako cotton pillows filled with 90% down.
Each cabin features two fixed windows (2' x 3') for natural light. The bathroom includes a walk-in shower and is equipped with Molton Brown toiletries exclusive to Tauck, plush terry-cloth bathrobes, and slippers. Modern conveniences include a 32" LED TV, minibar replenished daily with complimentary water and soft drinks, telephone, safe, dual 220v and 110v outlets, individual climate control, and onboard Wi-Fi.
Measuring 183 sq. ft., these well-appointed staterooms on the Emerald Deck feature two European twin beds (200 cm x 160 cm combined), which can be separated on request, and accommodate storage for up to four suitcases underneath. read more Furnishings include two chairs, a desk, a built-in closet with drawers, and premium bedding with 400 thread count cotton linens and pillows filled with 90% mako cotton down.
The private bathroom includes a shower, enhanced lighting, and is stocked with Molton Brown toiletries exclusive to Tauck, as well as plush terry-cloth bathrobes and slippers. Additional amenities include a minibar refreshed daily with complimentary water and soft drinks, a 32" LED TV, telephone, safe, dual 220v and 110v outlets, individual climate control, and onboard Wi-Fi.
At 150 sq. ft., these staterooms on the Diamond Deck feature a floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98" x 75") with one sliding door that opens to let in fresh air and views. Two European twin beds (200 cm x 156 cm combined) read more can be separated and allow storage for up to four suitcases underneath.
Stateroom furnishings include two chairs, a desk, and a built-in closet with drawers. Bedding features 400 thread count cotton linens and pillows filled with 90% mako cotton down. The private bathroom is equipped with a shower, Molton Brown toiletries exclusive to Tauck, and plush terry-cloth bathrobes and slippers. Additional amenities include a refrigerator stocked daily with complimentary water and soft drinks, a 32" LED TV, telephone, safe, 220v and 110v outlets, individual climate control, and onboard Wi-Fi.
Spanning 183 sq. ft., these French balcony staterooms on the Ruby Deck offer both comfort and Tauck's signature styling. Two European twin beds (200 cm x 160 cm combined) can be separated and provide under-bed storage for read more four suitcases. Floor-to-ceiling French balcony windows (98" x 75") open to let in light and fresh air. Furnishings include two chairs, a desk, and built-in closets with drawers. Bedding features 400 thread count cotton linens and mako cotton pillows with 90% down filling.
The private bathroom is equipped with a rainfall shower, Molton Brown toiletries exclusive to Tauck, enhanced lighting, and terry-cloth bathrobes and slippers. Additional in-room features include a 32" LED TV, minibar replenished daily with complimentary water and soft drinks, telephone, safe, 220v and 110v outlets, individual climate control, and onboard Wi-Fi.
Measuring 183 sq. ft., these staterooms on the Diamond Deck feature a floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98" x 75") with a sliding glass door that opens for fresh air and light. Two European twin beds (200 cm x 160 cm combined) read more can be separated and offer under-bed storage for four suitcases. The room is thoughtfully furnished with two chairs, a desk, and a built-in closet with drawers. Bedding includes 400 thread count cotton linens and mako cotton pillows with 90% down filling.
The private bathroom includes a spacious rainfall shower, enhanced lighting, Molton Brown toiletries exclusive to Tauck, and terry-cloth bathrobes and slippers. Additional amenities include a 32" LED TV, minibar replenished daily with complimentary water and soft drinks, telephone, safe, dual 220v and 110v outlets, individual climate control, and onboard Wi-Fi.
At 225 sq. ft., these generously sized staterooms on the Ruby Deck feature a floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98" x 75") with a sliding glass door that opens, bringing in natural light and fresh air. Two European twin beds read more (200 cm x 160 cm combined) can be separated, with under-bed storage for up to four suitcases. Furnishings include two chairs, a desk, and a built-in closet with drawers. Guests enjoy 400 thread count cotton linens, white duvets, and mako cotton pillows filled with 90% down.
The private bathroom features a spacious rainfall shower, Molton Brown toiletries exclusive to Tauck, enhanced lighting, additional storage, and plush terry-cloth bathrobes and slippers. Additional in-room amenities include a 32" LED TV, minibar stocked daily with complimentary water and soft drinks, telephone, safe, dual 220v and 110v outlets, individual climate control, and onboard Wi-Fi.
This expansive 300 sq. ft. stateroom is the largest non-suite category on board, featuring two European twin beds (200 cm x 180 cm combined) that can slide apart and store four suitcases beneath. The layout includes a pull-out read more sleeping sofa (190 cm x 110 cm) suitable for children in quad occupancy, two club chairs with a coffee table, a TV credenza, and a walk-in closet with dresser. Premium bedding includes 400 thread count cotton linens, white duvets, and mako cotton pillows with 90% down filling.
Guests enjoy two floor-to-ceiling French Balconies (each 98" wide x 75" high), both with sliding doors to enhance the open-air experience. The spacious bathroom features a rainfall shower (no bathtub), enhanced lighting, additional storage, a hair dryer, exclusive Molton Brown toiletries, and plush terry-cloth bathrobes and slippers. In-room amenities include a 32" LED TV, coffee maker, iron and ironing board, and a minibar restocked daily with complimentary soft drinks and water. Added comforts include breakfast room service, dual 220v and 110v outlets, under-bed luggage storage, a safe, individual climate control, onboard Wi-Fi, and a shipboard credit (one per stateroom) for spa services, gift shop purchases, and more.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
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 Tauck. 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.
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