Illuminations on the Danube (Eastbound) 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through the heart of Europe, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge along the majestic Danube River. From the bustling streets of Munich to the enchanting cityscapes of Budapest, this journey offers a perfect blend of guided excursions, leisure activities, and culinary delights. Each day unveils a new destination, inviting you to explore iconic landmarks, indulge in local flavors, and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of European heritage. With luxurious accommodations and a thoughtfully curated itinerary, this tour promises an unforgettable experience, leaving you with cherished memories of the Danube's timeless allure.
Included
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Cruise ship
Open–Air Balconies® and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama SuitesSM
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane® bath products & hairdryer
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
Individual climate control and in-room safe
Full-size closet and mirror
Additional under-bed storage
Well-stocked mini-bar
Avalon Impression: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite, Avalon Illumination: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite, Avalon Expression: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
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
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Map
Attractions
Prandegg Castle
Heroes' Square
Coal terminal in Esztergom
Veste Oberhaus
St. Martin's Cathedral, Bratislava
Belvedere Palace
Melk Abbey
Bratislava Castle
MAK - Museum of Applied Arts
Stadtplatz Steyr
St. Stephan's Cathedral, PassauDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to Germany: Embark on Your Journey
- Munich - Arrival day
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Arrive in the vibrant city of Munich, where your luxurious Suite Ship® awaits. Settle in and explore the ship's amenities before enjoying a delightful dinner onboard. As the evening unfolds, embark on a serene cruise to Vilshofen, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey.
Day 2 – Passau: The City of Three Rivers
- Passau
- Linz
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- Veste Oberhaus
- St. Stephan's Cathedral, Passau
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Discover the enchanting city of Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers converge. Choose between a scenic hike from Oberhaus or a guided city walk to explore the cobblestone streets and artistic alleys. Visit the majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral before cruising through the picturesque Schlögen Oxbow to Linz.
Day 3 – Linz: A Symphony of History and Culture
- Linz
- Melk
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- Prandegg Castle
- Stadtplatz Steyr
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Immerse yourself in Linz's rich history with a guided walk through its medieval square, Hauptplatz, and admire the Trinity Column. Opt for an excursion to Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Danube. As the day concludes, relish live entertainment onboard as you cruise to Melk.
Day 4 – Melk: A Tapestry of Art and Nature
- Melk
- Krems an der Donau
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- Melk Abbey
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Explore the awe-inspiring Melk Abbey, renowned for its frescoed ceilings and grand library. As you sail through the Wachau Valley, soak in the views of vineyards and castles. Arrive in Krems, a charming village seemingly untouched by time, and enjoy a guided walk through its quaint streets.
Day 5 – Vienna: A Symphony of Elegance and Culture
- Vienna
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- Belvedere Palace
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Experience Vienna's grandeur with a guided bike tour along the Ringstrasse or an insider's tour of the city's hidden gems. Visit the iconic Belvedere Palace to admire Klimt's masterpiece, 'The Kiss.' Spend your afternoon exploring the city's vibrant streets, indulging in local delicacies like Sachertorte.
Day 6 – Vienna: Art and History Unveiled
- Vienna
- Bratislava
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- MAK - Museum of Applied Arts
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Delve into Vienna's artistic heritage with a guided tour of the Museum of Fine Arts, showcasing the Habsburg family's private collection. Alternatively, explore the Military Museum to uncover the empire's storied past. Conclude your day with an optional Royal Waltz Concert before cruising to Bratislava.
Day 7 – Bratislava: A Blend of History and Nature
- Bratislava
- Esztergom District
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- St. Martin's Cathedral, Bratislava
- Bratislava Castle
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Explore Bratislava's rich history with a guided city walk through Old Town, visiting the Town Hall and St. Martin's Cathedral. Alternatively, hike to the majestic Bratislava Castle for panoramic views. Enjoy free time to discover the city's green spaces before cruising to Esztergom.
Day 8 – Esztergom and Visegrád: A Journey Through Time
- Esztergom District
- Visegrád
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- Coal terminal in Esztergom
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Embark on a guided tour of the Esztergom Basilica, including a taste of traditional Pálinka. Cruise to Visegrád for an afternoon of exploration, with options to hike through the Danube-Ipoly National Park or participate in a medieval knights tournament. Conclude your day with a scenic sail to Budapest.
Day 9 – Budapest: A City of Splendor and Heritage
- Budapest
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- Heroes' Square
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Discover Budapest's iconic landmarks with a guided city tour, including Heroes' Square. Spend your afternoon exploring the city's vibrant cafes and historic sites, or opt for a hike through the scenic hills above the Danube. As the day ends, enjoy the city's illuminated beauty from the comfort of your ship.
Day 10 – Farewell to Budapest
- Budapest - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey with a delicious breakfast onboard, reflecting on the memories made during this extraordinary tour. Depart from Budapest, carrying with you the essence of the Danube's timeless beauty.
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