Arrive in Vienna, where you will be met by a representative from Vantage Travel and transferred to the port for embarkation. After completing mandatory safety procedures, settle into your cabin, your home for the next eight days, before meeting the crew and fellow travellers.Â
Embark on an excursion to discover the grandeur and elegance of Vienna. Explore the city's most iconic landmarks, from majestic palaces to famous museums, concert halls and cathedrals. Immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage that defines this imperial city.Â
Included excursion: Evening concert in Kursalon with Dinner
Tonight, we are immersed in one of Vienna’s famous cultural experiences. Be treated to a traditional Viennese feast featuring an array of local specialties. After dinner, enchanting melodies of classical music await. Experience the magic of Vienna, known as the "City of Music," as talented musicians bring iconic pieces to life.
Included excursion: Sissi's Godollo Palace
Join us on a journey of discovery to Godollo Palace, located only about 45 from Budapest. This castle was once the summer residence of Empress Elisabeth of Austria, affectionately called Sissi, and served as a camp and retirement home after World War II. After exploring the lavish interiors of the palace, enjoy a leisurely stroll in the sprawling manicured gardens.Â
"Pearl of the Danube" or "Paris of the East"? One thing is certain, Budapest has a lot to offer! From afar, the Parliament building on the banks of the river greets you and the Hungarian capital shines in its old splendor.Â
On our panoramic sightseeing excursion of this grand capital, we travel by bus and cross the old chain bridge, passing the imposing 19th century St. Stephens Church, through the wide boulevards to Heroes' Square built 1896 for Hungary’s Thousand Years Celebrations. On our way back to the ship, we pass the neo-gothic Parliament Building, one of the city's major landmarks. Â
The small capital of Slovakia is located on the border with Austria and Hungary and is home to about 450,000 people. Due to its location, Bratislava is a melting pot of peoples and cultures. The pedestrian only old town of Bratislava dates back to the 18th century and is a great place for a gentle stroll, thanks to it being a car-free zone. A walk around the old town is followed by a visit to Primate’s Palace, the Jesuit church, Town Hall and Michael's Gate. We might even get to sample some Slovakian treats.
Melk has acquired a beautiful name - ‘the gateway to the Wachau’. Anyone approaching the historic town on the Danube will gaze upon Melk Abbey perched high above the river. The abbey is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and worth a visit at any time of the year. The impressive Baroque ensemble has been cared for by the monks of the Benedictine order since the year 1089. Culture, faith and science are united in the magnificent rooms of the monastery.
On a guided tour of the abbey, you will visit the Prelate's Court, the museum rooms in the former imperial chambers, the Marble Hall, the Altane and the world-famous library with over 80,000 volumes and a stunning ceiling painting by Paul Troger. Out on the terrace, you can soak in the impressive view of the Danube valley.
From Linz, we embark on an excursion through the picturesque Austrian countryside to the iconic city of Salzburg, a city of rich history and cultural heritage. Renowned as the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for the ‘Sound of Music’, you can immerse yourself in the city’s musical heritage, explore the historic Old Town, take in the panoramic views from Hohensalzburg Fortress and savor the charming atmosphere of this Austrian gem.
Farewell the crew and your fellow passengers as you disembark in Vienna to continue your onward journey. Please note: the Ship arrives in Vienna at 7:00 AM. Therefore, flights should be booked approximately at 11:00 AM or later.
Note: While we make every effort to offer you the excursions mentioned in the itinerary, please note that changes may occur with little or without notice that are outside of our control, and we thank you in advance for your understanding.Â
