Welcome to Budapest, the glittering capital of Hungary and the gateway to your unforgettable Danube journey. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, meet your Vantage Explorations Representative and transfer to the cruise pier. Step aboard the elegant Viva Enjoy, your home for the next 15 days, where comfort and style await. Unpack, explore the ship’s inviting amenities, and take in your first glimpses of this enchanting city. After dinner, the ship will reposition to a new pier within Budapest, remaining docked overnight so you can experience the charm of the Danube illuminated by the city’s twinkling lights.
You wake up in Budapest. After breakfast, set off on a panoramic tour that begins on the vibrant Pest side with a visit to St. Stephen’s Basilica. Then, drive along elegant Andrássy Avenue, passing the State Opera on your way to the stately Heroes’ Square. Continue through the city center, where grand architecture lines the lively Grand Boulevard.
Cross the iconic Chain Bridge to explore the Buda side, where Gellért Hill offers breathtaking views over the Danube. Enjoy a scenic drive through the historic Castle District, and from the riverside, take in the magnificent sight of Buda Castle and the Parliament building.
As the tour concludes, return to the ship with time to unwind or further discover the charms of Budapest on your own. This evening, as you prepare for dinner, the ship sets sail and your journey along the Danube River begins.
Enjoy a relaxed morning of scenic cruising before arriving mid-day in Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia. Nestled at the meeting point of Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria, this former coronation city blends rich history with modern vibrancy.
On a guided walking tour through the sunlit old town, admire the Gothic and Baroque architecture that gleams in the summer light. Stroll through narrow cobblestone lanes and lively squares framed by colorful facades and blooming flowers, soaking in the warm atmosphere of this picturesque city.
Along the way, you may want to try a traditional Slovak treat for a delightful taste of local flavor. After the tour, return to the ship and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your leisure. This evening, as you sit down to dinner, the ship resumes its journey along the Danube.
With an early morning arrival, you awaken in Vienna, Austria’s dazzling capital. Renowned for its imperial grandeur, musical heritage, and timeless elegance, Vienna’s historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your discovery with a scenic drive past architectural gems like the State Opera, Musikverein, and Karlsplatz. Then, set out on a guided walk from the stately Hofburg Palace to the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Take a moment to admire its stunning façade, visit a traditional Viennese café, or browse the elegant shops along Kärntner Strasse. Your tour continues along the grand Ringstrasse, where magnificent landmarks such as the Parliament and City Hall line the boulevard. Return to the ship and enjoy the remainder of your afternoon and evening at leisure. Later tonight, the ship sets sail for the next stop on your journey.
After breakfast, disembark in Dürnstein for a captivating tour of Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s most stunning baroque masterpieces. Perched high above the Danube, the abbey commands breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. Your guided visit begins in the elegant Prelate’s Court, a showcase of baroque artistry, before moving on to the former imperial apartments, now a museum that reveals the abbey’s rich history and noble connections.
Step into the resplendent Marble Hall, adorned with an elaborate ceiling fresco, and continue to the Altane, an open terrace offering sweeping views of the Danube. The Abbey Library is another highlight, housing over 80,000 volumes beneath a painted ceiling by Paul Troger. Conclude your tour with time to admire the baroque collegiate church, a radiant expression of sacred architecture. Rejoin your ship in Melk and enjoy a leisurely afternoon and evening of scenic cruising as your journey along the Danube continues.
As you enjoy breakfast onboard, the ship arrives Passau, gracefully set at the meeting point of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Known as the Bavarian Venice, Passau enchants with its riverside beauty and richly layered history. Towering above the town is the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century fortress that has watched over the city for centuries. The old town, a harmonious blend of pastel facades and baroque elegance, invites exploration at every turn.
Join a guided walking tour through this historic gem and discover the architectural splendor of the prince-bishops' residences and the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral. With its dramatic organ, one of the largest in the world, and richly adorned interior, the cathedral is a highlight of Passau’s spiritual and cultural life. Wander cobblestone streets and soak in the graceful atmosphere that defines this riverside treasure. Return to the ship in time for lunch, then enjoy a relaxing afternoon and evening of scenic cruising as the journey along the Danube continues.
As you enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard as your ship arrives in Regensburg, one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Framed by the Danube and echoing with over two millennia of history, Regensburg offers a blend of ancient charm and sophisticated vitality.
Your exploration begins with a privately guided walking tour through the city’s enchanting Old Town. Meander along cobbled streets lined with stately patrician houses, pass beneath centuries-old archways, and admire the soaring Gothic spires of St. Peter’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. With each step, your expert guide reveals the stories, secrets, and cultural layers that shaped this remarkable city.
A signature moment of your journey is a visit to the historic Wurstkuchl, a riverside culinary icon in continuous operation for over 500 years. Originally serving stonemasons and boatmen, this atmospheric tavern now welcomes travelers with the same beloved fare: handcrafted sausages grilled over open flame and served with its legendary house-made mustard, still prepared to a 19th-century recipe.
Here, heritage meets indulgence. Enjoy this authentic bite of Bavarian tradition as the Danube sparkles beside you, an experience as rich in flavor as it is in history.
Return to your ship for lunch as your vessel slips away from Regensburg, resuming its elegant course along the Danube, carrying you toward the next chapter of your river adventure.
Enjoy a leisurely morning of scenic cruising as the ship arrives mid-day in Nuremberg, a vibrant city in the Free State of Bavaria known for its rich medieval heritage. Ancient city walls, cobbled streets, and the imposing imperial castle tell the story of a city steeped in history. Nuremberg is also famous for its festive charm, especially during the world-renowned Christmas market.
Step ashore and board a comfortable coach for a journey through the city’s fascinating past. Pass landmarks such as the expansive Zeppelin Field and the charming outskirts where tradition meets daily life. Your guided tour begins at the majestic Kaiserburg Castle, perched above the city. From here, stroll downhill through the enchanting old town, admiring sights like the scenic Burgterrasse, the historic Albrecht Dürer House, the striking St. Sebald Church, and the grand old City Hall.
The tour ends at the bustling market square, where the tempting aromas of spiced gingerbread and sizzling Nuremberg bratwurst invite you to pause and enjoy a taste of local flavor. Take in the impressive architecture and lively atmosphere before returning to the ship. As you enjoy dinner on board, the ship quietly sets sail, continuing its journey along the river to the next captivating destination.
Begin your morning with breakfast on board as the ship gently arrives in the historic town of Bamberg, nestled along the Main-Danube Canal. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bamberg is known for its beautifully preserved medieval architecture and charming Old Town.
Upon disembarkation, we travel by coach to the city’s concert hall, a contemporary venue that serves as the home of the Bamberg Symphony and marks the starting point of our guided walking tour. From this point, the remainder of the excursion takes place entirely on foot, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and timeless atmosphere.
The first stop is the imposing Bamberg Cathedral, dedicated to Saints Peter and George. With its four soaring spires and Romanesque design, the cathedral stands as a monumental symbol of Bamberg’s spiritual and architectural heritage. When possible, the tour includes a visit inside to view its ornate interior and centuries-old artistry.
Continuing through Domplatz, you’ll encounter a delightful blend of architectural styles and significant historic buildings. Notable highlights include the Alte Hofhaltung, once the bishop’s residence, and the grand Neue Residenz, a 17th-century palace known for its elegant Rose Garden with panoramic views over the city.
The tour proceeds down into the heart of the Old Town, where your guide will introduce you to one of Bamberg’s most iconic sights. The Old Town Hall, perched dramatically in the middle of the Regnitz River and accessible only by footbridges, is a unique symbol of the city’s creative spirit and civic pride.
The guided tour concludes in Bamberg’s lively city center, leaving you perfectly situated to continue exploring at your own pace. Whether you choose to stroll through cobbled streets, relax at a local café, or browse artisan boutiques, you’ll have time to soak in the town’s unique charm.
Return to the ship in time for a relaxing lunch on board. As you enjoy your midday meal, the ship departs Bamberg and resumes its journey. The afternoon and evening are yours to unwind and take in the beauty of scenic cruising as we sail toward our next exciting destination.
After a tranquil morning of scenic cruising, the ship arrives mid-day in Würzburg, the heart of the Franconian wine region. This enchanting city is renowned for its elegant baroque and Rococo architecture, its deep-rooted wine culture, and its vibrant student population. Step ashore for a guided tour that showcases the soul of this historic city and its celebrated viticulture.
Würzburg’s skyline is graced by some sixty churches, with highlights including the grand St. Kilian’s Cathedral, the Gothic charm of St. Mary’s Church, and the Romanesque splendor of the Neumünster. Learn about the city’s influential role as a medieval ecclesiastical center while taking in the exquisite architecture that defines its character. A visit to the gardens of the Residenz, the former palace of the prince-bishops and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into one of Europe's most magnificent baroque masterpieces, complete with an ornate court church and beautifully landscaped grounds.
The tour concludes at the Old Main Bridge, where a local wine expert awaits to guide you through a tasting of two premium Franconian wines. Savor each sip as you take in sweeping views of Marienberg Fortress, the Käppele pilgrimage church, and the timeless beauty of the Main River. Return to the ship just in time for dinner as the vessel gently departs Würzburg and continues its journey toward the next captivating destination.
Enjoy a relaxing morning of scenic cruising as the ship glides along the tranquil waters of the Main River. After lunch, we arrive in the charming town of Miltenberg, nestled between the forested hills of the Spessart and Odenwald. This picture-perfect town is famed for its red sandstone architecture, beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, and a hilltop castle restored in its historic colors.
Join your guide for a walking tour that begins at the ship and leads to the iconic Schnatterloch, one of the most picturesque market squares in Germany. Here, rows of timber-framed houses from the 14th to 17th centuries create a storybook backdrop. As you stroll through Miltenberg’s narrow lanes, discover landmarks like the old town hall and the Riesen, believed to be the oldest inn in Germany. Along the way, you may want to try a small regional specialty offering a taste of local flavor.
After the tour, take some free time to explore the quaint city center at your own pace. Later this afternoon, return to the ship as we set sail once more toward the next enchanting stop on your river journey.
Enjoy another breathtaking morning of scenic cruising as the ship glides through the heart of Germany. By mid-afternoon, we arrive in Mainz where your walking tour begins just steps from the ship. Steeped in over two thousand years of history, Mainz is a city where Roman heritage meets lively modern culture.
Your exploration begins at the impressive Mainz Cathedral, whose towering spires have watched over the city for centuries. Wander through the old town’s cobbled lanes, framed by colorful facades and timbered houses, and take in the lively atmosphere of the main marketplace. As you stroll, discover the enduring legacy of Johannes Gutenberg, the city’s most famous son, whose invention of the printing press transformed the world.
Feel the welcoming spirit of the Rhineland as you explore its capital, where history and innovation go hand in hand. After your tour, return to the ship for an evening of peaceful cruising along the river, soaking in the timeless beauty of the landscape.
Upon arrival in Strasbourg, immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Alsace on a captivating sightseeing tour. Begin with a guided drive through the heart of this historic city, where grand boulevards, medieval towers, and half-timbered houses offer a glimpse into its rich and diverse past. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide brings Strasbourg’s architectural treasures and cultural legacy to life with fascinating insights.
Continue your journey on foot through the storybook lanes of the Petite France district, celebrated for its cobbled streets and scenic canals. Pause to admire the Barrage Vauban and other notable landmarks that reflect the city's unique blend of charm and history. Your walk concludes at the awe-inspiring Strasbourg Cathedral, where you are welcome to explore this Gothic masterpiece at your own pace. Afterwards, return to the ship and relax as the day draws to a close. Later, the ship resumes its voyage along the river.
Enjoy breakfast onboard as your ship arrives in the riverside town of Breisach. Prepare for a delightful cross-border journey through the serene landscapes of the Upper Rhine. Rolling vineyards, gentle hills, and storybook villages unfold as you travel toward the French region of Alsace and the enchanting town of Colmar.
Upon arrival, set out on a guided tour through this beautifully preserved gem, a town that seems lifted from the pages of a fairytale. Colmar blends history and charm with its maze of cobbled alleyways, flower-filled balconies, and elegant half-timbered houses painted in cheerful hues. Quiet canals wind their way through the heart of the Old Town, earning Colmar its nickname, La Petite Venise.
As you explore, you’ll discover the cultural richness and visual harmony that define the Alsace region. From medieval churches and centuries-old wine cellars to lively squares and local artisan boutiques, with every turn, Colmar reveals another facet of its unique Franco-German heritage.
After your time in this charming town, relax on your scenic return to Breisach. Later, the ship continues its voyage along the river. This evening, gather with fellow travelers to celebrate your journey with a festive farewell dinner on board.
After a final breakfast onboard, bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the crew of the Viva Enjoy as you disembark and transfer to the Basel airport for your journey home with wonderful memories of your time along the Danube.
Please Note: Disembarkation begins at 930AM. We recommend you schedule your flight to depart on or after 1:30PM
Please Note: While every effort is made to provide the excursions outlined in your itinerary, unforeseen changes may occasionally occur without prior notice. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility.
