Embark on an 8-day river cruise aboard the Avalon Passion, highlighting Europe's iconic cities and landscapes along the Danube. Begin in Budapest, where you can explore scenic viewpoints or enjoy a city tour featuring Heroes' Square. In Bratislava, hike up to the historic castle or wander the cobbled Old Town. Arrive in Vienna to immerse yourself in Habsburg grandeur, visit the Imperial Palace, and perhaps enjoy a Royal Waltz Concert. Continue to the Wachau Valley, where a guided tour of Melk Abbey awaits, offering breathtaking architecture and history. The cruise flows into Linz, with options to explore the town or embark on a full-day trip to Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov. Sail through the picturesque Schlogen Oxbow en route to Passau, where a city walk or hike offers views of this beautiful "City of Three Rivers." Conclude in Vilshofen, departing with memories of Europe's timeless beauty.
Highlights
Stroll Bratislava’s charming streets and visit its grand Gothic cathedral
Discover Vienna’s imperial splendor, including its famed Habsburg landmarks
Wander Durnstein’s quaint village and hear tales of Richard the Lionheart
Explore Melk’s impressive abbey with frescoed ceilings and vast library
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Welcome to Hungary! Your suite ship awaits you for boarding.
Arrivals in Budapest should be scheduled by 3:30 pm, with all guests on board by 5 pm.
Take advantage of the afternoon to unwind and explore the city—perfect for capturing photos, enjoying local cafés, and sampling delightful confections.
Stop by the Adventure Center for today's itinerary options with your Adventure Host. Choose between an invigorating hike to a scenic viewpoint above Budapest or a guided city tour featuring highlights like the iconic Heroes' Square.
In the afternoon, explore the city with optional excursions, or enjoy free time to take in famous landmarks like the Chain Bridge, discover cozy cafés, or wander the picturesque hills overlooking the Danube.
Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a hike up to the impressive Bratislava Castle for panoramic views, or opt for a guided walk through the city, exploring the charming streets of Old Town, the historic Town Hall, and St. Martin's Cathedral, known for royal coronations.
In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time to explore Bratislava's rich culture and history or relax in the city's green spaces and nearby forests.
Later, return to the ship for an evening of live entertainment on board.
Explore Vienna's scenic Danube Island by bike with your Adventure Host, or delve into the grandeur of the Habsburg Empire with a guided city tour through Vienna's iconic landmarks. Marvel at the Imperial Palace, once the winter residence of the royal family, the famous Vienna Opera House, and the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral.
Consider a guided visit to Schonbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs' summer residence. Later, take some free time to wander along Karntnerstrasse, Vienna's premier shopping street, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride through the city, stopping at a cozy café to savor a slice of Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel.
This evening, enrich your Viennese experience with an optional excursion to a Royal Waltz Concert in an elegant hall for an unforgettable night of music.
Take a guided tour of Melk’s splendid Benedictine Abbey to admire its frescoed ceilings, statues, impressive library, and grand pipe organ. Alternatively, join a guided walk and discover the story of King Richard the Lionheart, who was once imprisoned here during the Crusades.
In the afternoon, relax on the Sky Deck as you sail through the stunning Wachau Valley, drifting past vineyards, ancient castles, and charming villages on your way to Linz.
Stroll along the Danube with a guided walk through Linz’s historic sites, including the impressive Hauptplatz—Austria’s largest medieval square—and the towering white-marble Trinity Column. You can also explore the famous Danube cycle path with a bike ride led by your Adventure Host around the Linz area.
Alternatively, opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, or the charming, fairytale-like Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov.
This morning, cruise through the scenic Schlogen Oxbow, a striking horseshoe bend in the river. For an active start, join your Avalon Adventure Host on a hike from Oberhaus, winding down to the valley along the Ilz River. Alternatively, enjoy a Guided City Walkthrough of Passau, the stunning "City of Three Rivers."
Take some free time to wander Passau's charming cobblestone streets and browse the local art galleries on Artists' Alley. You might also pause at St. Stephen's Cathedral, where you may catch a concert rehearsal before continuing your cruise to Vilshofen.
Day 8: Vilshofen | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
Flights should not leave Munich airport before 8 am.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$3,8092-3 travelers
Cat. E
Avalon Deluxe Stateroom: 172 SQ. FT.
Comfort Collection Beds, Bedside tables with reading lamps, L'Occitane bath products, Under-bed luggage storage, Complimentary bottled water, Individual climate control, Mirror in the bathroom, Full shower with glass door, Vanity, Memory foam mattress, European-style duvets.
Cat. D
Avalon Deluxe Stateroom: 172 SQ. FT.
Comfort Collection Beds, Bedside tables with reading lamps, L'Occitane bath products, Under-bed luggage storage, Complimentary bottled water, Individual climate control, Mirror in the bathroom, Full shower with glass door, Vanity, Luxurious mattress, European-style duvets.
Cat. B
Panorama Suite: 200 SQ. FT.
Comfort Collection Beds, Bedside tables with reading lamps, L'Occitane bath products, Under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, In-room safe, Contemporary design, Marble countertops in the bathroom, 6-person sitting area, Writing desk, Sofa, Memory foam mattress, European-style duvets.
Cat. A
Panorama Suite: 200 SQ. FT.
Comfort Collection Beds, Bedside tables with reading lamps, L'Occitane bath products, Under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, In-room safe, contemporary design, Marble countertops in the bathroom, 6-person sitting area, Writing desk, Sofa, Luxurious mattress, European-style duvets.
Initial deposit is $250pp, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by check, money order, Visa, MasterCard, Discover/Novus, and American Express. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.
Included
7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Onboard Adventure Center with active gear, bikes, maps, canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
Wifi
Complimentary fresh fruit available daily
Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Panoramic windows
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
Excluded
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or on board your vessel
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Adventure Life seems to be an honest company and has been quite helpful in the planning process. Good about answering questions.
Chris Dralle
1 week ago
Wonderful personal attention to detail and very helpful suggestions by experienced travel experts
John K
1 week ago
Franny has been such an amazing help with all my trip planning. This is our 3rd trip to plan with her and she is always so willing to assist and find the best deals for my family and friends.
Suzanne Turbyfill
1 week ago
Our advisor at Adventure Life, Mary Curry, was knowledgable and quick to respond with answers to any questions we had. She made our booking efficiently and set up a time for us to make a secure payment through her directly. We’ve used Adventure Life repeatedly and would definitely recommend it.
