Classic Prague and Danube Delights

Your journey of discovery begins in the beautiful city of Prague – the historical pearl of Europe. A truly deserving UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site, the city’s center brings to life its rich history with a wealth of monuments, amazing architecture, musical masterpieces and nostalgic atmosphere. From Prague to Budapest, and at every stop between, you’re taken back in time to ‘Old Europe’, uncovering ancient abbeys, beautiful palaces, and historic landmarks left in the wake of WWII. For a truly authentic insight into Slovakian life, you’re welcomed to afternoon tea hosted by a local family, while the iconic sights and bustling city streets of Vienna and Budapest perfectly showcase Europe’s vibrant modern culture.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Prague

Welcome to Prague, one of Europe’s magical cities. Situated on the banks of the River Vltava in central Bohemia, this beautiful city is rich in history and is home to some of the world’s most pristine collections of architecture. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel. This evening meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink. Included is a three night stay in Prague.

Day 2:

Prague

Prague was built on nine hills along the Vltava River which flows through the city, reflecting its beautiful architecture – including towers, church spires and cupolas, palaces and town houses – in its water. This morning you’ll explore the sights of the Old Town Square on an included guided tour, taking you to see Mozart’s Theatre, Little Square and the Astronomical Clock. The tour then continues across the Charles Bridge over the River Vltava where you’ll board a coach taking you to the 1,000-year-old Prague Castle area. Here, you’ll watch the changing of the guard before a local guide takes you through Hradcany Square and past the magnificent Loreta Monastery before moving on to Hradcany Castle, the Old Kings Palace and St. George’s Monastery. This evening you’ll enjoy a night of dancing and entertainment at a local Czech tavern.

Day 3:

Prague

Today you’re free to explore the historical capital of Bohemia as you please. But to make sure you don’t miss out on the city’s best, your Tour Director is on hand to help plan your day.

You can also book a Discover More option to visit Blatna Castle, a curious Neo-Gothic landmark that was built in the early 19th century. This unique architectural achievement is situated in 57 acres of parkland, which also features some rich botanical gardens.

Day 4:

Prague - Nuremberg

Transfer by coach to Nuremberg to join your fellow passengers on board of the Emerald Waterways award winning ship. Tonight you will sail through the Main-Danube Canal.

Day 5:

Kelheim - Regensburg

This morning’s sailing takes you through the final stretch of the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Kelheim. As you cruise along the Danube River you’ll reach Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. On your guided walking tour you’ll have the chance to see one of the oldest bridges crossing the Danube and the city’s architectural highlights including the Old Town Hall.

In addition to your guided tour of Regensburg, you can book a Discover More boat cruise along the Danube Gorge and visit a local brewery for some beer tasting. This evening, you have a special invitation to an elegant Captain Welcome dinner to introduce you to other guests, the crew, the Captain and life on the river. Entertainment comes courtesy of a traditional Bavarian Band, playing a selection of rousing folk music into the night while you relax with a drink.

Day 6:

Passau

Situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz, today you’re visiting Passau – the “Three Rivers City”. On this morning’s walking tour, you’ll stroll through the cobblestone streets and narrow alleys before emerging to find the perfect view of the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress. Originally designed to serve the Bishop of Passau in 1219, today it’s home to a fascinating museum, restaurant and open-air theater. You’ll then have the chance to appreciate the wonderfully ornate architecture of St. Stephen’s Cathedral – home to the world’s largest cathedral organ, with over 17,000 pipes. However you choose to spend your day, you’ll return to your ship for lunch on board and an afternoon of leisurely sailing.

As an alternative you may book an optional Discover More full day tour (including lunch) to Salzburg in Austria – one of the best-preserved city centers north of the Alps and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or you may prefer to visit Ceský Krumlov – a small city in the South Bohemian Region of the Czech Republic.

Day 7:

Melk - Dürstein

Your tour of Austria’s wine-growing region begins in Melk. Here you’ll explore a 900-year old Benedictine abbey which is located above the town overlooking where the Danube joins the Wachau Valley – an Austrian valley with a picturesque landscape. Boasting the finest Italian architecture, elaborate gold leaf walls, a 640ft Imperial Corridor and fabulous fresco ceilings, Melk Abbey is a beautiful sight. Later, you’ll sail to Dürnstein through the great Wachau Valley – home to the 12th century castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the crusades or choose to borrow one of the bikes on board and peddle your way down river to meet the boat in Dürnstein.

Day 8:

Vienna

Austria’s vibrant city of Vienna is a fantastic fusion of old and new. Go on an icon-filled coach tour along the Ringstrasse where you’ll see Vienna’s world-famous Opera House, Burgtheatre, Town Hall and Hofburg Imperial Palace, before hopping off to explore on foot. You’ll then head into the center of Vienna where St. Stephen’s Cathedral stands proud and majestic in the main square. From its dizzy heights, you’ll be able to take in the city’s fabulous sights from a unique vantage point.

Alternatively, you can book a Discover More tour to Schönbrunn Palace – Empress Sisi’s former summer residence, complete with an enchanting park. As you explore the grounds of the palace your guide will divulge the secrets that surround you. In the evening, you can book an exclusive Discover More optional trip to enjoy a Viennese concert, or simply relax at the bar, in the lounge or in the privacy of your cabin.

Day 9:

Bratislava

Today you’ll experience the relaxed pedestrian plazas and stylish street cafés of Bratislava. And for a more profound insight, you’ll be taken on a sightseeing tour of the Old City. Sights we will pass by include the magnificent Mirbach Palace, the Town Hall, and the Gothic cathedral of St Martin. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a special hosted afternoon tea with a local Slovakian family, providing you with a truly authentic insight into Slovakian culture. Here you’ll sample traditional fare in the company of new friends, and discover what everyday life is like in a Slovakian village. This evening, you have an extra special invite to the Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Day 10:

Budapest

For an amazing end to a fantastic vacation, we welcome you to Budapest – Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Your private guided tour takes you past the Royal Palace of Buda – home to the Hungarian National Gallery, Budapest History Museum, the National Library, Lion Courtyard, Matthias Well, and the statue of the Turul Bird; the mythological bird of the Magyars. Continue to Fisherman’s Bastion situated on Castle Hill, where you will admire the most breath-taking panoramic views of the city. Next see Matthias Church and the Chain Bridge that links Buda and Pest. The day concludes with an evening cruise along the Danube, where you’ll enjoy a traditional Hungarian Farewell Dinner, complete with folk dancing and music.

Day 11:

Budapest

After a delicious buffet breakfast to prepare you for the day ahead, it’s time to say your goodbyes to your fellow guests, the crew and your Captain before you’re transferred to the airport and your journey home begins or extend your trip with two nights in Budapest.

Testimonials

I am SO incredibly fortunate to have started working with Quest Adventures! Erika has been truly amazing in every sense of the word. The knowledge that they share is priceless! I love working with them and will continue to do so for many years to come!

Jodie R, Germany and Austria - 2023

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