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Imperial Cities & Danube Cruise
Tour Description:
EMBRACE THE MAGIC OF THE BLUE DANUBE AND DISCOVER THE IMPERIAL CITIES OF CENTRAL EUROPE
Begin your Imperial adventure early and explore the multi-faceted histories of two European giants, Berlin and Prague. From Gothic, Baroque and Renaissance architecture, to landmarks that have had much significance within our lifetimes, experience centuries in just a few days.
Itinerary is also available from Berlin to Budapest based on your travel preference
Highlights:
* Rail travel on local rail networks
* 7 night cruise on board the Amadeus Queen or Imperial II
* Hotel accommodations for 3 nights
* 26 meals including a Gala Dinner
* Guided city tours of Berlin & Prague
* Entrance to Prague Castle and St Vitus' Cathedral
* Tour Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Melk Abbey and Regensburg
* Cruise the Danube Bend and through the Wachau Valley
* Enjoy an on board recital from members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra & a Hungarian folklore show
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Destination & Sightseeing
ITINERARY
ITINERARYDay 1 - To Berlin
Upon arrival in Berlin, transfer independently to the Maritim Berlin Hotel where you will meet your group and tour manager. A welcome dinner is included this evening. Overnight Berlin. (D)
Day 2 – Berlin and on to Prague
This morning we embark on a guided tour of Berlin, soaking up the sights of this once divided city including the incredible Brandenburg Gate, a monument important to Berliners because of what it represents; the gate was part of a city that was heavily bombed and fiercely fought over prior to the surrender of Germany in 1945 but the arch survived with only a few bullet holes. We'll also see a section of the Berlin Wall as well as the Reichstag, meeting place of the current German parliament. Later we continue our journey to Prague by rail. Overnight Prague. (B, D)
Day 3 – Prague
Enjoy a guided tour of Prague, starting at Hradcany Castle, the largest medieval complex in Europe. We also walk across the 14th- century Charles Bridge and pass the Gothic spires of St Vitus' Cathedral, where entrance is included. The rest of your day is at leisure before dinner at the hotel. We recommend a visit to one of the city's 'hospodys' or beer houses, taverns that serve some of the world's finest beers. Overnight Prague. (B, D)
Day 4 – Depart for Budapest
Following a buffet breakfast, we join the rail service to Budapest. Arriving in Budapest, we meet the Amadeus Queen or Silver II and are welcomed with a cocktail in the lounge before dinner. Later, take in the illuminated sights as we sail around the city. We are also treated to a performance from a local Hungarian folk band in the lounge. Overnight ship. (B, D)
Day 5 – Discovering Budapest
This morning we enjoy a guided coach tour, introducing us to Budapest's main sights. We pass impressive buildings and monuments on both sides of the Danube, including the neo-Gothic Parliament building, the magnificent State Opera House and St Stephen's Basilica, Budapest Castle, Matthias Church, and Fishermen's Bastion. We return to the ship for lunch, after which you have some free time before we begin cruising to Bratislava. Our departure time means we arrive at the scenic Danube Bend just as the sunsets. This section of the river has a long and fascinating history and from the sun deck or panoramic windows in the bar, you'll be able to see castle ruins, churches, pretty houses hidden in the hills and dense forests, all soaked in the golden glow of twilight. Overnight ship. (B, L, D)
Day 6 – Arrival in Bratislava
Your morning is at leisure aboard before we moor up early this afternoon. After lunch, we set out on a guided coach and walking tour of the Slovakian capital. Located in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava straddles the Danube which neatly divides the city into two parts; the Baroque Old Town (Stare Mesto) and the new city. This picture-postcard destination boasts historic Gothic buildings, several universities, a wealth of museums and galleries, and a refreshing cosmopolitan atmosphere. The historic center features delightful cobblestoned roads, pedestrianized plazas, 18th-century rococo buildings and street cafés galore. Following our excursion, you have plenty of free time to explore. Overnight ship. (B, L, D)
Day 7 – The history and music of Vienna
After a calm night of cruising, we arrive into glorious Vienna for a sightseeing tour. This is a chance to relish in Austria's Imperial heritage, one full of tradition and rich in architectural, artistic and musical heritage. You'll see many of Vienna's most ornate buildings, including the impressive Opera House - one of the leading opera venues in the world, as well as the grand Parliament Building. Tonight a real treat awaits us. After dinner we are joined by musicians from the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra for a private recital. Be whisked away by the music and immerse yourself in this singularly exceptional experience. Overnight ship. (B, L, D)
Day 8 – Melk Abbey
Today we reach Austria's Wachau Valley, a famous wine-making region. We arrive in the idyllic village of Dürnstein where you have time at leisure. As we sit down to lunch on board we begin cruising along the picturesque Wachau Valley, an extremely scenic area with green valleys and vineyards rising up from the river, picturesque riverside towns, and commanding fortresses with sweeping views. We then journey by coach to Melk Abbey, enjoying entrance to this 11th century Benedictine Abbey which stands on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube and is home to the Abbey Church, considered one of the most beautiful Baroque churches north of the Alps. Overnight ship. (B, L, D)
Day 9 – Salzburg or the Austrian Lake District
We disembark in Linz, where you have a choice of excursions. You could head further into the countryside for a day spent amidst the spectacular scenery of the Austrian lakes. Make stops in UNESCO listed Hallstatt, one of Austria's most photographed villages thanks to its traditional pastel-colored houses perched on the tiny plain between the mountains and Hallstättersee Lake, as well as Mondsee. This pretty town is set on the lake of the same name, and its most famous sight is the 15th-century parish church, which featured in the wedding scenes of 'The Sound of Music'.
Otherwise, travel by coach to Salzburg, via Mondsee, one of Austria's most famous cities and known as the birthplace of Mozart. A guided sightseeing tour reveals the city's internationally renowned Baroque architecture, a UNESCO World Heritage site. We rejoin the ship in Passau. Overnight ship. (B, L, D)
Days 10 – Regensburg
Regensberg is our port of call this morning, which we explore on foot. This medieval town contains many buildings that testify to its history as a trading center and to its influence on the whole region from the 9th century onwards. Back on board tonight, we attend the Captain's gala dinner, a chance to don our evening-wear and celebrate our cruise experience. (B, L, D)
Day 11 – Departure
After breakfast, we disembark in Passau where you will be transferred to Munich Airport for your flight back home. (B)
