Danube Explorer & Prague

Welcome to Hungary and the ‘Pearl of the Danube,’ Budapest. You’ll be met at the airport and then transferred to the stylish surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board. This evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, join your fellow guests to enjoy a traditional Hungarian folklore show performed on board your Star-Ship. EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board Please book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.

Today, explore the atmospheric cobblestone streets and medieval quarter of Budapest, as you embark on a coach tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Your insightful guide will explain all about the Hungarian capital’s culinary scene as you tour the neo-Gothic Grand Market, Budapests largest and most expansive indoor market. Afterwards, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this vibrant market at your own pace. Alternatively, if you’re feeling more active, you can choose to hike to Gellert Hill. The surrounding area has been rebuilt several times, most recently following the air raids of World War II. Several 18th century Baroque  houses still remain standing and are best explored along the medieval-era paths and alleyways that encircle Buda Castle. Included Excursion Budapest tour with Grand Market visit EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Gellert Hill DiscoverMORE Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

This morning, relax on board your Star-Ship as you sail into the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava. This graceful nation became an independent country in 1993, and since then, Bratislava has flourished as a new capital and made a name for itself as a cultural centre. The romantic cobblestone lanes that weave through the city are yours to explore with your insightful local guide. Enjoy a walking tour of the 18th century Old Town, taking in the Slovak National Theatre and a wealth of Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings. Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle, a city landmark steeped in legend that looks as though it has been plucked from the pages of a fairytale. Standing on an isolated rocky hill directly above the Danube, this impressive building has been rebuilt several times, most recently in Renaissance-style. Tonight, enjoy some typically local Slovakian entertainment on board your Star-Ship. Included Excursion Walking tour of Bratislava EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Bratislava Castle EmeraldPLUS Local Slovakian entertainment on board DiscoverMORE Skoda tour of Post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense) DiscoverMORE Carpathian Wine route (extra expense)

Historic boulevards and imperial grandeur welcome you to Vienna, the magnificent Austrian capital.  Vienna perfectly encapsulates the opulence of the Habsburg Monarchy and their ornate Baroque palaces, some of which you’ll be able to see during your guided coach tour of the famous Ringstrasse, one of the world’s most beautiful boulevards.  Afterwards, embark on a guided walking tour of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre, where you can admire classical architectural styles, legacies of the melting pot of artistic influences that have existed here since the turn of the 20th century. Some of Austria’s most important – and exquisite - buildings line the Ringstrasse, including the Neo-Renaissance Vienna State Opera, City Hall and Parliament, as well as splendid palaces. Alternatively, If you’re feeling more active, choose to explore Vienna on two wheels, as part of a guided bike tour, cycling along the riverbanks to scenic Danube Island. Included Excursion Guided tour of Vienna EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour of Vienna DiscoverMORE Exclusive Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

Effortlessly suspended in time, Weissenkirchen is one of the most frequented parts of the Wachau wine region, where the delightful warm climate creates the perfect setting for viticulture. Later, sail through the scenic, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and arrive in Melk, a delightful Austrian town, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Melk Abbey. Originally a lavish castle that was gifted to Benedictine monks during the 11th century, this opulent Baroque building houses some of the most important collections of medieval manuscripts in the world. Included Excursion Tour of Melk Abbey EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour along the Danube River EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike in Weissenkirchen DiscoverMORE  Visit to Schallaburg Castle (extra expense)

This morning, your Star-Ship will arrive in Linz. You’ll then be transferred by coach to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre of Ceský Krumlov, a delightful Czech town. Join your insightful local guide on a walking tour along the labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets lined with colourful façades of buildings and learn how they survived the test of time. The town surrounds the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ceský Krumlov Castle, and your guided tour will take in the 15th century St. Vitus Church and a number of charming  Gothic façades. EmeraldPLUS Guided tour of Ceský Krumlov DiscoverMORE Walking tour of Linz with a Linzer Torte tasting (extra expense)

Narrow cobblestone streets and the aroma of freshly-baked gingerbread, a local delicacy, welcome you upon your arrival in Passau. Nestled on the confluence of three of Europe’s main waterways – the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers – this  charming German town is an important historic trading centre and bordering Austria, displaying a distinctive blend of cultures. You’ll later experience a typical Bavarian farm for some interesting insights into the daily life of local farmers and livestock farming, then have a chance to sample some homemade specialities. Alternatively, you can embark on a guided hike, taking in sights such as the Mariahilf and St. Severin, an ancient church dating back to the Ottonian dynasty. EmeraldPLUS Bavarian Countryside Experience EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Veste Oberhaus DiscoverMORE Bavaria Live (extra expense)

After breakfast, disembark your Star-Ship to be transferred to Prague, home to some of the world’s most pristine collections of architecture from across the ages. Included is a comfortable three-night stay in the city. 

The heart of Prague is an enchanting treasure trove, showcasing some of Europe’s finest and most well-preserved architectural marvels from various eras. Begin your journey by exploring three magnificent castle courtyards before stepping into the awe-inspiring St. Vitus Cathedral. From there, descend the Castle Steps, where breathtaking views of Prague unfold before your eyes. Next, we stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, leading us to the charming Old Town. Our unforgettable city tour concludes at the legendary Astronomical Clock in the vibrant Old Town Square, leaving you captivated by Prague’s timeless beauty. Included Excursion A guided tour of Prague EmeraldPLUS Coffee & Cake at Lobkowicz Palace

Prague is yours to explore independently today, perhaps enjoying some delicious Czech treats or immersing yourself in the culture that surrounds you. Your tour director will be available to help plan your day’s exploring and to answer any questions that you may have. DiscoverMORE Tastes of Czechia (extra expense)

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and leave Prague’s idyllic centre for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of ancient wonders and idyllic panoramic views of UNESCO World Heritage-listed areas with you. Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.