Itinerary

Day 1:
(Thu.) Board your overnight transatlantic flight.

Day 2:
Budapest, Hungary. (Fri. & Sat.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN''S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. Your Cruise Director will have more suggestions for interesting outings and things to do. (BB)

Day 3:
Budapest, Hungary. (Fri. & Sat.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN''S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. Your Cruise Director will have more suggestions for interesting outings and things to do. (BB)

Day 4:
Budapest. (Embarkation) (Sun.) This afternoon, the crew of your vessel waits to welcome you aboard. (BB,D)

Day 5:
Budapest–Vienna, Austria. (Mon.) A day to relax on board and marvel at the beautiful scenery on both banks of the Danube. Hungary is on your left as you cruise upriver and Slovakia is on your right. The two countries share the Danube for a 58-mile stretch, with the border in the middle of the river. Vienna, Austria’s capital, is known as the “City of Music” and inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. (FB,L,D)

Day 6:
Vienna. (Tue.) Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Vienna has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights. You do not rush through Vienna, you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. An optional concert is available during your stay. (FB,L,D)

Day 7:
Dürnstein–Melk. (Wed.) Dürnstein, known for the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade, lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Above town are ruins of the castle where England’s King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! (FB,L,D)

Day 8:
Linz–Passau, Germany. (Thu.) Linz, Austria’s third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube, and is an important industrial town and busy river port. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. (FB,L,D)

Day 9:
Regensburg. (Fri.) Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall; the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL; and Porta Pretoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria’s cultural centers. It is here you will find Germany’s oldest restaurant, the 12th-century Alte Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen). (FB,L,D)

Day 10:
Nuremberg (Sat.) Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous Gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg’s traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (FB,L,D)

Day 11:
Nuremberg (Disembarkation)–Prague, Czech Republic. (Sun.) Cross the Czech border in the Bohemian Forest and head for Prague, the “Golden City.” (FB)

Day 12:
Prague. (Mon. & Tue.) Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. It straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires, and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. Best-known treasures are the Old Town’s Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all of Europe; HRADCANY CASTLE; St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books. Mix with the locals in Wenceslaus Square or stroll along the Vltava River. Your Cruise Director will have more suggestions for things to do. (BB daily)

Day 13:
Prague. (Mon. & Tue.) Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. It straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires, and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. Best-known treasures are the Old Town’s Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all of Europe; HRADCANY CASTLE; St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books. Mix with the locals in Wenceslaus Square or stroll along the Vltava River. Your Cruise Director will have more suggestions for things to do. (BB daily)

Day 14:
Prague. (Wed.) Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (BB)

Dates & Prices

BUDAPEST
Guided sightseeing; Visit Fishermen’s Bastion; Welcome reception

VIENNA
Guided sightseeing

DÜRNSTEIN
Guided city walk

MELK
Guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey; Wine tasting

PASSAU
Guided sightseeing

REGENSBURG
Guided sightseeing; Visit the Old Chapel

MAIN DANUBE CANAL
Cruise in the canal

NUREMBERG
Guided sightseeing

PRAGUE
Guided sightseeing; Visit Hradcany Castle

SPECIAL DEPARTURES

• November 7, 2008 departure is offered as an exclusive Wine Cruise, including special lectures and tastings, available at no additional cost

Itinerary

Day 1:
(Sat.) Board your overnight flight to Amsterdam.

Day 2:
Amsterdam, Holland. (Embarkation) (Sun.) Welcome to Amsterdam! Holland’s capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. This afternoon, the crew of your vessel waits to welcome you aboard. (D)

Day 3:
Amsterdam. (Mon.) There is no better way to see the city than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.” There is plenty of free time to explore on your own. Your Cruise Director will have suggestions of how to make the most of your stay. (FB,L,D)

Day 4:
Dordrecht–Rotterdam. Excursion to Delft. (Tue.) Sitting between two branches of the Rhine, charming Dordrecht inspired many painters in the 17th and 18th centuries. Nearby is KINDERDIJK with its picturesque row of windmills. Rotterdam is a bustling city that was leveled by German bombs in WWII but now boasts the world’s busiest port. Traditionally a city of weavers and brewers, Delft is now best known for its distinctive blue and white porcelain. (FB,L,D)

Day 5:
Arnhem. (Wed.) One of the major tragedies of World War II was the Battle of Arnhem, featured vividly in the AIRBORNE MUSEUM HARTENSTEIN and the inspiration for the movie A Bridge Too Far. (FB,L,D)

Day 6:
Cologne, Germany. (Thu.) Cologne is the capital of the Rhineland and one of Germany’s largest cities. The soaring twin steeples of the magnificent Gothic cathedral dominate the river skyline. The Germano-Roman Museum, located next to the cathedral, is a must for history buffs! The Old Town abounds with taverns, cafés, and shops. Try a Kölsch, the favorite local beer, and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original “eau de cologne.” (FB,L,D)

Day 7:
Coblenz. (Fri.) Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, 2,000-year-old Coblenz is the cultural and business center of the Middle Rhine region. The Deutsches Eck, located on a tongue of land where the two rivers converge, holds an impressive equestrian statue of Wilhelm I. The Moselle River is some 312 miles long, rising in the Vosges Mountains of northeastern France and entering Germany at Trier. The entire Moselle Valley is famous for its beautiful and tranquil scenery. (FB,L,D)

Day 8:
Bernkastel. (Sat.) In the middle of the Moselle region is the charming wine village of Bernkastel with its well preserved half-timbered houses surrounding the beautiful MARKET PLACE. Wine growers in this area look after Germany’s largest expanse of vineyards, the most celebrated of the vintages being the Bernkasteler Doktor. (FB,L,D)

Day 9:
Trier. (Sun.) The venerable Episcopal city of Trier is the oldest in Germany—and some claim even older than Rome! A house on the marketplace bears the inscription, “Trier was standing 1,300 years before Rome.” The famous PORTA NIGRA is the only surviving fortified gate from the original Roman settlement and still gives access to the town center. Trier’s most famous son was socialist revolutionary Karl Marx. (FB,L,D)

Day 10:
Cochem. (Mon.) REICHSBURG CASTLE, towering above the river at Cochem, can be seen from afar and sits atop a conical hill covered in vines. Views of the little town of Cochem nestled below and of the river valley are splendid. Cruising the wide, peaceful curves of the river, it quickly becomes obvious that the Moselle is an important wine-growing region. Most notably, Riesling grapes are cultivated, producing a dry to sweet, floral white wine. (FB,L,D)

Day 11:
Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim-Mainz. (Tue.) The dramatic Rhine Gorge is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs lured enchanted sailors to their doom. Rüdesheim is the perfect example of a Rhine Valley wine town and SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM is a real surprise! Explore the Drosselgasse and be sure to try one of the vintages in any of the wine taverns. Situated on the left bank of the Rhine, opposite the mouth of the Main River, Mainz is Germany’s largest and most important wine market. (FB,L,D)

Day 12:
Mainz. (Wed.) Charming Old Town in Mainz is waiting to be explored. A curiosity is the fountain on Schillerplatz decorated with scenes of the famous annual carnival. Gutenberg, the father of modern printing, was born here and the GUTENBERG MUSEUM is well worth a visit. (FB,L,D)

Day 13:
Excursion to Heidelberg. (Thu.) Heidelberg is Germany’s oldest university town. The ruins of the imposing red sandstone CASTLE tower above the city. Of particular interest is the GIANT VAT, an 18th-century wine cask holding 49,000 gallons! (FB,L,D)

Day 14:
Strasbourg, France. (Fri.) Situated on the border of France and Germany, Strasbourg is influenced by the culture of both countries and is the capital of the Alsace region. It is the seat of the Council of Europe and the European Parliament. Noteworthy sights are the GOTHIC CATHEDRAL, the lovely LA PETITE FRANCE district, Place Kleber, and Place Gutenberg with its statue of the inventor of the printing press. An optional excursion to the Alsace wine region is available today. (FB,L,D)

Day 15:
Breisach, Germany. Excursion to the Black Forest. (Sat.) Located at the foot of Kaiserstuhl Mountain on the French-German border, Breisach is a charming medieval town. Once surrounded by city walls, the gates to the city still stand today. Breisach is the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest region, an area of unrivaled natural beauty with its forests of thick pine trees. The most well-known products from this region are Black Forest ham and Black Forest cherry cake. (FB,L,D)

Day 16:
Basel, Switzerland. (Disembarkation) (Sun.) Homebound flights should not leave Zurich Airport before 10 a.m. (FB)

Dates & Prices

AMSTERDAM
Welcome reception; canal cruise

DORDRECHT
Picture stop at Kinderdijk

ROTTERDAM
Excursion to Delft, harbor cruise

ARNHEM
Guided sightseeing; visit Airborne Museum Hartenstein & War cemetery

COLOGNE
Guided sightseeing

COBLENZ
Guided walking tour

BERNKASTEL
Guided walking tour

TRIER
Guided sightseeing

COCHEM
Visit Reichsburg Castle

RÜDESHEIM
“Winzerexpress” mini train; visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

MAINZ
Visit the Gutenberg museum

HEIDELBERG
Guided visit of the castle

STRASBOURG
Guided sightseeing, visit La Petite France district and the Gothic cathedral

BREISACH
Excursion to the Black Forest

Itinerary

Day 1:
(Sat.) Board your overnight flight to Amsterdam.

Day 2:
Amsterdam, Holland. (Embarkation) (Sun.) Holland’s delightful 700-year-old capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. This afternoon, the crew of your vessel waits to welcome you aboard. (D)

Day 3:
Amsterdam. (Mon.) There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes. Afterward, our river cruise vessel sets sail for Cologne. (FB,L,D)

Day 4:
Cologne, Germany. (Tue.) Cologne is one of Germany’s largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent Gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kölsch in one of the many taverns, and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original “eau de cologne.” (FB,L,D)

Day 5:
Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim. (Wed.) The dramatic Rhine Gorge is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs lured enchanted sailors to their doom. Pretty Rüdesheim is the perfect example of a Rhine Valley wine town. Explore the Drosselgasse, pick up some souvenirs, and be sure to try one of the vintages in any of the little wine taverns. (FB,L,D)

Day 6:
Miltenberg. (Thu.) Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and Renaissance houses and the Gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall. (FB,L,D)

Day 7:
Würzburg. (Fri.) Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP’S RESIDENZ is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (FB,L,D)

Day 8:
Bamberg. (Sat.) Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg, with its breathtaking cathedral, Old Town Hall straddling the river, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (FB,L,D)

Day 9:
Nuremberg. (Sun.) Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous Gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg’s traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (FB,L,D)

Day 10:
Regensburg. (Mon.) One of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, Regensburg’s architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall and the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL. (FB,L,D)

Day 11:
Passau–Linz, Austria. (Tue.) Ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, Passau is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. (FB,L,D)

Day 12:
Melk–Dürnstein. (Wed.) Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. Dürnstein, known for the baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade, lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Above town are the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Vienna, known as the “City of Music,” inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. (FB,L,D)

Day 13:
Vienna. (Thu.) Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. An optional concert is available tonight. (FB,L,D)

Day 14:
Bratislava, Slovakia. (Fri.) Situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava is the dynamic capital of Slovakia. The charming Old Town with its Town Hall and Mirbach Palace, as well as the Gothic cathedral of ST. MARTIN, should not be missed. (FB,L,D)

Day 15:
Budapest, Hungary. (Sat.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN’S BASTION and the Matthias Church are impressive sights. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (FB,L,D)

Day 16:
Budapest. (Disembarkation) (Sun.) Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (FB)

Dates & Prices

AMSTERDAM
Welcome reception; Canal cruise

COLOGNE
Guided sightseeing

RÜDESHEIM
“Winzerexpress” mini train
Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

MILTENBERG
Guided sightseeing

WÜRZBURG
Guided sightseeing, visit the Residenz

BAMBERG
Guided sightseeing

NUREMBERG
Guided sightseeing

REGENSBURG
Guided sightseeing
Visit the Old Chapel

PASSAU
Guided sightseeing

MELK
Guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey

DÜRNSTEIN
Guided sightseeing

VIENNA
Guided sightseeing

BRATISLAVA
Guided sightseeing
Visit St. Martin’s Cathedral

BUDAPEST
Guided sightseeing
Visit Fishermen''s Bastion

Itinerary

Day 1:
(Sat.) Board your overnight flight to Budapest.

Day 2:
Budapest, Hungary. (Embarkation) (Sun.) Welcome to Hungary’s exciting capital city! This afternoon, the crew of your vessel waits to welcome you aboard. (D)

Day 3:
Budapest. (Mon.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN''S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (FB,L,D)

Day 4:
Bratislava, Slovakia. (Tue.) Situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava is the dynamic capital of Slovakia. The charming Old Town with its Town Hall and Mirbach Palace, as well as the Gothic cathedral of ST. MARTIN, should not be missed. (FB,L,D)

Day 5:
Vienna, Austria. (Wed.) Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. An optional concert is available tonight. (FB,L,D).

Day 6:
Dürnstein–Melk. (Thu.) Dürnstein, known for the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade, lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Above town are ruins of the castle where England’s King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! (FB,L,D)

Day 7:
Linz–Passau, Germany. (Fri.) Linz, Austria’s third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube, and is an important industrial town and busy river port. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. (FB,L,D)

Day 8:
Regensburg. (Sat.) Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall; the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL; and Porta Pretoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria’s cultural centers. It is here you will find Germany’s oldest restaurant, the 12th-century Alte Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen). (FB,L,D)

Day 9:
Nuremberg. (Sun.) Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous Gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg’s traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (FB,L,D)

Day 10:
Bamberg. (Mon.) Medieval Bamberg with its breathtaking cathedral, Old Town Hall straddling the river, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (FB,L,D)

Day 11:
Würzburg. (Tue.) Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP’S RESIDENZ is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. (FB,L,D)

Day 12:
Miltenberg. (Wed.) Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and Renaissance houses and the Gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall. (FB,L,D)

Day 13:
Rüdesheim–Rhine Gorge. (Thu.) Pretty Rüdesheim is the perfect example of a Rhine Valley wine town. Explore the Drosselgasse, pick up some souvenirs, and be sure to try one of the vintages in any of the little wine taverns. The dramatic Rhine Gorge is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs lured enchanted sailors to their doom. (FB,L,D)

Day 14:
Cologne, Germany. (Fri.) Cologne is one of Germany’s largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent Gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum located next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kölsch in one of the many taverns, and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original “eau de cologne.” (FB,L,D)

Day 15:
Amsterdam, Holland. (Sat.) Holland’s delightful 700-year-old capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes. (FB,L,D)

Day 16:
Amsterdam. (Disembarkation) (Sun) Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (FB)

Dates & Prices

BUDAPEST
Guided sightseeing
Visit Fishermen''s Bastion
Welcome reception

BRATISLAVA
Guided sightseeing
Visit St. Martin’s Cathedral

VIENNA
Guided sightseeing

DÜRNSTEIN
Guided sightseeing

MELK
Guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey

PASSAU
Guided sightseeing

REGENSBURG
Guided sightseeing
Visit the Old Chapel

NUREMBERG
Guided sightseeing

BAMBERG
Guided sightseeing

WÜRZBURG
Guided sightseeing; visit the Residenz

MILTENBERG
Guided sightseeing

RÜDESHEIM
“Winzerexpress” mini train
Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

COLOGNE
Guided sightseeing

AMSTERDAM
Canal cruise

Itinerary

Day 1:
(Thu.) Board your overnight transatlantic flight.

Day 2:
Paris, France. (Fri.) Welcome to Paris! France’s capital on the River Seine, the “City of Light,” where romance fills the air.

Day 3:
Paris. (Sat.) Paris’ famous sights are living history: magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral, the unique Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid contrasting its ancient architecture, the commemorative Arc de Triomphe, Opéra, Madeleine, Champs Elysées, and the Eiffel Tower, a structural miracle of its age. The city is well known for its colorful nightlife, including some of the world’s most famous cabaret shows. (BB)

Day 4:
Paris–Trier, Germany. (Embarkation) (Sun.) After breakfast, drive to Trier in Germany, where the crew of your vessel waits to welcome you aboard. The Moselle River is some 312 miles long, rising in the Vosges Mountains of northeastern France and entering Germany at Trier. The entire Moselle Valley is famous for its beautiful and tranquil scenery. (BB,D)

Day 5:
Bernkastel. (Mon.) In the middle of the Moselle region is the charming wine village of Bernkastel, with its well preserved half-timbered houses surrounding the beautiful MARKET PLACE. Wine growers in this area look after Germany’s largest expanse of vineyards, the most celebrated of the vintages being the Bernkasteler Doktor. (FB,L,D)

Day 6:
Cochem–Coblenz. (Tue.) REICHSBURG CASTLE, towering above the river at Cochem, can be seen from afar and sits atop a conical hill covered in vines. Views of the little town of Cochem nestled below and of the river valley are splendid. Cruising the wide, peaceful curves of the river, it quickly becomes obvious that the Moselle is an important wine-growing region. Most notably, Riesling grapes are cultivated, producing a dry to sweet, floral white wine. Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, 2,000-year-old Coblenz is the cultural and business center of the Middle Rhine region. The Deutsches Eck, located on a tongue of land where the two rivers converge, holds an impressive equestrian statue of Wilhelm I. (FB,L,D)

Day 7:
Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim. (Wed.) The dramatic Rhine Gorge is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs lured enchanted sailors to their doom. Rüdesheim is the perfect example of a Rhine Valley wine town and SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM is a real surprise! Explore the Drosselgasse and be sure to try one of the vintages in any of the wine taverns. (FB,L,D)

Day 8:
Miltenberg. (Thu.) Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and Renaissance houses and the Gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall. (FB,L,D)

Day 9:
Würzburg. (Fri.) Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP’S RESIDENZ is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (FB,L,D)

Day 10:
Bamberg. (Sat.) Another UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg, with its breathtaking cathedral, Old Town Hall straddling the river, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (FB,L,D)

Day 11:
Nuremberg. Excursion to Rothenburg. (Sun.) Medieval Rothenburg is a classical walled city. Its half-timbered houses, wooden church altar carved by Tilman Riemenschneider, and town square with its Glockenspiel, a tribute to the city’s one-time heroic mayor, all make this a favorite town along the Romantic Road. (FB,L,D)

Day 12:
Nuremberg. (Mon.) Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous Gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg’s traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (FB,L,D)

Day 13:
Regensburg. (Tue.) Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall; the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL; and the Porta Pretoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria’s cultural centers. (FB,L,D)

Day 14:
Passau–Linz, Austria. (Wed.) Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. Linz, Austria’s third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube, and is an important industrial town and busy river port. (FB,L,D)

Day 15:
Melk–Vienna. (Thu.) Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! Vienna, known as the “City of Music,” inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight. (FB,L,D)

Day 16:
Vienna. (Fri.) Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights. You do not rush through Vienna, you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. (FB,L,D)

Day 17:
Budapest, Hungary. (Sat.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elizabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hill top castle complex with FISHERMEN’S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (FB,L,D)

Day 18:
Budapest. (Disembarkation) (Sun.) Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (FB)

Dates & Prices

PARIS
Guided sightseeing

TRIER
Welcome reception

BERNKASTEL
Guided sightseeing

COCHEM
Visit Reichsburg Castle

RÜDESHEIM
“Winzerexpress” mini train; visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

MILTENBERG
Guided sightseeing

WÜRZBURG
Guided sightseeing, visit the Residenz

BAMBERG
Guided sightseeing

NUREMBERG
Excursion to Rothenburg; guided sightseeing

MAIN DANUBE CANAL
Cruise in the canal

REGENSBURG
Guided sightseeing; visit the Old Chapel

PASSAU
Guided sightseeing

MELK
Guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey

VIENNA
Guided sightseeing

BUDAPEST
Guided sightseeing; visit Fishermen''s Bastion

Itinerary

Day 1:
(Thu.) Board your overnight transatlantic flight.

Day 2:
Budapest, Hungary. (Fri. & Sat.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN''S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. Your Cruise Director will have more suggestions for interesting outings and things to do. (BB)

Day 3:
Budapest, Hungary. (Fri. & Sat.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN''S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. Your Cruise Director will have more suggestions for interesting outings and things to do. (BB)

Day 4:
Budapest. (Embarkation) (Sun.) This afternoon, the crew of your vessel waits to welcome you aboard. (BB,D)

Day 5:
Budapest–Vienna, Austria. (Mon.) A day to relax on board and marvel at the beautiful scenery on both banks of the Danube. Hungary is on your left as you cruise upriver and Slovakia is on your right. The two countries share the Danube for a 58-mile stretch, with the border in the middle of the river. Vienna, Austria’s capital, is known as the “City of Music,” and inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. (FB,L,D)

Day 6:
Vienna. (Tue.) Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Vienna has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights. You do not rush through Vienna, you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. An optional concert is available during your stay. (FB,L,D)

Day 7:
Dürnstein–Melk. (Wed.) Dürnstein, known for the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade, lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Above town are ruins of the castle where England’s King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! (FB,L,D)

Day 8:
Linz–Passau, Germany. (Thu.) Linz, Austria’s thirdlargest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz