Danube Explorer & Munich

Welcome to Budapest, the 'Pearl of the Danube'. Upon your arrival at the airport, you'll be transferred to your luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a traditional Hungarian folklore show on board. Please ensure your flight arrives in Budapest before 5:00 PM.

Today, you'll explore Budapest's medieval quarter on a coach tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center. Your guide will introduce you to the city's culinary scene while touring the neo-Gothic Grand Market. If you prefer a more active day, you can choose to hike to Gellert Hill. You'll also have the opportunity to explore the area around Buda Castle.

Today, we sail into Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. With your local guide, explore the city's romantic cobblestone lanes, the Slovak National Theatre, and a range of Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings. Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to the legendary Bratislava Castle. In the evening, enjoy local Slovakian entertainment on board.

Today, we arrive in Vienna, the city of art and psychology. A guided coach tour will take you around the Ringstrasse, showcasing the city's opulent Baroque palaces. Following this, embark on a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center. If you're up for some physical activity, you can choose to explore the city on a bike tour along the river to the Danube Island.

Today, we visit Weissenkirchen, a charming part of the Wachau wine region. Later, we sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley to Melk, where you'll enjoy a guided tour of the opulent Baroque Melk Abbey, home to some of the most important collections of medieval manuscripts in the world.

This morning, we dock in Linz and transfer you to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed center of Ceský Krumlov. Join your local guide on a walk through the town's winding cobblestone streets, passing colorful buildings and learning about their history. The tour includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ceský Krumlov Castle, the 15th-century St. Vitus Church, and several delightful Gothic facades.

Today, we arrive in Passau, a historic trading center nestled at the confluence of three of Europe's main waterways. Experience life on a typical Bavarian farm and try their homemade specialties. Alternatively, set off on a hike to Veste Oberhaus, catching sights such as the Mariahilf and St. Severin, an ancient church dating back to the Ottonian dynasty.

After breakfast, you will be transferred from your Star-Ship to your centrally located hotel in Munich. The rest of the day and evening are at your leisure to start exploring Munich.

After breakfast, embark on a panoramic tour of Munich, visiting the former Olympic site, Nymphenburg Palace, Maximilianstrasse, the Parliament, the National Theater, and Munich's Residenz. During a walking tour, stroll around the Marienplatz Square and see the famous Glockenspiel. After the tour, you will head to the Oktoberfest grounds where you will enter the tent to celebrate as a local.

Your memorable 10-day tour comes to an end today. After breakfast, prepare for your onward journey. We hope you've enjoyed your time exploring the heart of Europe and look forward to welcoming you back on another adventure soon.