On arrival in Munich, you will be met by a representative of Vantage Explorations and transferred to the pier in Passau for embarkation. After completing mandatory safety procedures, we throw the lines and depart at approximate 5:00 pm. Please arrange your flight to arrive no later than 12:00 PM to allow 2-3 hours transfer from Munich to Passau. Settle into your cabin, your home for the next fortnight, before meeting the crew and your fellow travelers.
Spend the morning exploring Melk, known as the gateway to the Wachau Valley. Anyone sailing to Melk will see the town’s iconic abbey perched high above the river upon approach. The abbey is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and has been cared for by Benedictine monks since 1089. Culture, faith and science are united in the magnificent rooms of the monastery.
Included excursion: Melk Monastery Tour Â
The imposing baroque building of the early 18th century towers majestically over the town and attracts thousands of visitors every year. On the guided tour, you will visit the Prelate's Court, the museum rooms in the former imperial chambers, the Marble Hall, the Altane (roofed terrace) and the world-famous library with over 80,000 volumes and a stunning ceiling painting by Paul Troger. The collegiate church concludes the tour of the monastery (tour without a guide). From the terrace you can enjoy an impressive view of the Danube valley. Â
Esztergom, Hungary, is located on the Danube and has numerous sights, such as the Basilica, the Castle Museum or the Mária Valéria Bridge. Â
Included excursion: Esztergom Basilica by tramway Â
In Esztergom, you can take the slow train from the pier to the Basilica, where you can enjoy a guided tour of the Basilica. The Classicist church is the largest church in Hungary and its treasury still contains ancient vestments and liturgical objects from the Carolingian period. Afterwards you can take the slow train back to the ship or walk independently back to the city of Esztergom.Â
Enjoy lunch onboard as we sail to Budapest, ready to visit Godollo Palace this afternoon. Â
Upon arriving in Budapest, embark on a journey of discovery to Godollo Castle, 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.
Embark on a sightseeing excursion of Budapest, where you will discover the incredible sights of the city. Cross the old chain bridge over to Pest, past the imposing 19th century St. Stephen's Church, through the wonderful, wide boulevards to Heroes' Square. Marvel at the grandeur of the Hungarian Parliament Building, an architectural masterpiece and one of the city’s iconic buildings. Experience for yourself why Budapest is considered one of Europe’s most delightful capital cities. 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.Â
In the evening, when we arrive in Vienna, you will be treated to a special musical concert on board. Â
The capital of Austria is a city that every traveler should visit once in their life. Few cities in the world offer such an enchanting combination of glorious architecture, world-famous museums and theaters and gorgeous green spaces. It is no surprise that the entire city center of Vienna is recognised as an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Â
This excursion takes you to Vienna’s most well-known sights like the Ringstrasse, with its splendid buildings including the Opera House, Imperial Palace, Parliament building, Town Hall and National Theatre. The excursion also includes a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, arguably the most famous building in Vienna. The palace gained international fame through the filming of the story of the Austrian Queen-Empress Elisabeth, "Sissi". Enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent interior, and afterwards take a leisurely stroll through the magnificent gardens. You will also have the chance to stroll through the narrow hidden streets, alleyways and picturesque courtyards of Vienna’s historic Old Town. Â
From Linz, the capital of the province of Upper Austria, we head to Salzburg for a full day of exploration. As the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage site, Salzburg is a picturesque city that offers travelers rich cultural heritage, Baroque architecture and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy a stroll through the city’s historic Old Town, filled with narrow cobblestone alleyways, charming squares and imposing cathedrals. Visit Mozart’s home, now converted into a museum dedicated to the life and work of the genius composer, before driving back to Linz, admiring the picturesque landscapes of the Austrian countryside along the way. Â
Farewell the crew and fellow passengers and disembark the vessel before transferring to Munich's airport for your onward journey. Please note: the Ship arrives Passau at 7:30 AM. Therefore, flights should be booked approximately at 3:00 PM 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
