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Vienna Danube River Cruises

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Vienna
Johann Strauss statue, Vienna
Salzburg
Salzburg
Krems
Cruise down the charming Wachau valley
Melk
Visit the ornately decorated Melk Abbey
Durnstein
Durnstein
Weissenkirchen
Explore the winemaking regions of Austria
Grein
Charming small towns in Austria
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Vienna is perhaps the most popular port on Danube River cruises, and for good reason. Wander through the tranquil Viennese streets full of music, art, and cafes, which have made it a cradle of European culture, claiming such great minds as Beethoven, Mozart, and Sigmund Freud. Explore the city's museums and architectural masterpieces like Schönbrunn and Hofburg Palaces, and climb to the top of Saint Stephen's Church for a breathtaking view of the city. From Vienna, your Danube River cruise will take you down the river towards nearby Bratislava, Slovakia, and onward to Budapest, Hungary. Voyaging up the river will take you to Krems, Durnstein, Melk (and its impressive Abbey), and Linz, Austria. Myriad Danube River cruises start and/or end in Vienna, so contact us for help selecting the perfect cruise on the Danube to Vienna.
All Vienna Cruises

10 Best Danube River Cruises Visiting Vienna for 2026-2027

All Vienna Cruises
Hungarian parliament, Budapest

New Year on The Danube: Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava

6 Days from $2,362
Cruise along Danube River on this 6-day cruise aboard MS Vivaldi and explore the enchanting markets in Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and see the Puzsta Plains in Hungary.
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Explore Budapest from the serene Danube

Capital Cities along Danube

5 Days from $1,444
Board the MS Vivaldi for this 5-day cruise visiting the historic capitals and major cities of Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia along the Danube River. Gothic & Baroque architecture and history are at the center of this tour of the former Austro-Hungarian empire, highlighting monuments, museums, castles, and the art & music that define the region.
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Vienna Opera House, Austria

Taking in 3 countries: The Danube and its traditions

5 Days from $1,389
Cruise along Danube River on this 5-day cruise aboard MS Vivaldi and explore the enchanting Christmas Markets in Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest!
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Visit the ornately decorated Melk Abbey

The Beautiful Blue Danube

8 Days from $2,481
Embark on an 8-day The Beautiful Blue Danube cruise, aboard MS Vivaldi, and explore Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Visit Melk Abbey, hike in Bratislava, watch a horse show in Kalocsa, and tour iconic sites in Budapest. Choose from guided tours or active experiences throughout the journey.
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Hungary's Parliament building in Budapest

Christmas on the Danube

8 Days from $2,799
Discover the wonders of Hungary, Austria, and Germany on an 8-day Christmas on the Danube cruise. Explore grand cities, medieval towns, & quaint villages, & enjoy the lively festivities of three countries. Experience the holiday atmosphere of Budapest's Christmas markets, Vienna's delightful handmade decorations, and Regensburg's fairy-tale beauty.
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Stop in historic Regensburg on your Danube river cruise

Christmastime on the Danube (Westbound)

7 Days from $3,697
Enjoy centuries-old Christmas markets and historical landmarks on a 7-day river cruise on the Avalon Impression from Vienna to Nuremberg. Taste Austria's tastiest holiday delicacies. Tour the beautiful 11th-century Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe's largest monasteries. Discover Nuremberg's medieval castles and gothic churches.
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Explore the charming Austrian town of Linz

Legendary Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $4,039
Embark on an 8-day cruise on the MS Amareina, starting in historic Nuremberg and ending in vibrant Budapest. Enjoy scenic biking and hiking while exploring medieval towns, elegant Vienna, and the stunning Wachau Valley.
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Wander a cozy Christmas Market

Iconic Christmas Markets - Cruise Only

8 Days from $4,249
Experience an 8-day cruise on the MS Amareina, visiting charming towns and stunning cities adorned with Christmas decorations. Enjoy festive markets in Nuremberg, Regensburg, Vienna, and Budapest, filled with handmade crafts, mulled wine, and holiday delights.
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Budapest Cityscape

Best of the Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $4,449
Sail the Danube on this 8-day cruise aboard MS Amareina, exploring imperial capitals, UNESCO treasures, and architectural gems. Discover Vienna, Bratislava, and Salzburg, where history, music, and Old-World charm come to life.
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Golden sunset lights the famous Fisherman's Bastion in Budapest

Active & Discovery on the Danube (Westbound)

8 Days from $4,330
Explore the Danube on an 8-day cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen aboard Avalon Impression. Hike to Dracula’s Tower, bike Vienna’s Ringstrasse, and see Belvedere Palace. Experience Wachau Valley vineyards, Grein’s historic theater, Mauthausen Memorial, and Engelhartszell Abbey.
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All Vienna Luxury Tours and Cruises

10 Best Luxury Danube River Cruises to Vienna for 2026-2027

Trip Name From Days Summary
Danube Christmas Markets $10,790 8 Join an 8-day cruise from Budapest to Munich on the Scenic Amber, where you can experience enchanting Christmas markets along the Danube River. Enjoy exclusive events, such as a private concert at the historic Palais Liechtenstein, while soaking in Central Europe's rich history and festive spirit.
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Romantic Danube - Cruise Only $3,749 8 Cruise eastern Europe on this 8-day itinerary along the romantic Danube from Vilshofen to Budapest aboard the MS Amasonata, stopping in cities like Passau, Linz, and Vienna en route. You will see breathtaking architecture, beautiful natural landscapes, and taste some of the most savory flavors and wines that Europe has to offer.
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Grand Christmas & New Year's $7,899 13 Celebrate the holiday season on a 13-day river cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest aboard the S.S. Beatrice. Immerse yourself in festive Christmas markets, charming medieval towns, and iconic cities along the Danube River. Savor mulled wine, traditional gingerbread, and local delicacies as you journey through Germany, Austria, and Hungary.
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The Romantic Danube - Cruise Only $3,449 8 Sail from Vilshofen to Budapest on an 8-day Danube River cruise aboard MS Amalea. Choose guided walking tours, scenic hikes, and bike rides through the Wachau Valley. Visit Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov and discover historic landmarks across Central Europe.
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Legendary Danube - Cruise Only $4,049 8 Board the luxurious MS Amasonata on this exclusive 8-day cruise of the Danube River. From Nuremberg, you will sail through Germany and Austria before arriving in the vibrant city of Budapest, Hungary. Ride bicycles along the Danube on daily guided tours and taste fine wines from the Wachau wine region in Austria.
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Blue Danube Discovery - Cruise Only $3,949 8 On this unforgettable 8-day cruise, embark in Budapest, Hungary, and make your way to the charming city of Nuremberg on the MS Amasonata. Visit some of the most important sites of the region (including Gothic & Baroque cathedrals, the Oberhaus Fortress, and others) and bike through the spectacular scenery of the Danube Valley.
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Melodies of the Danube $5,624 13 Join the MS Amasonata on a fascinating 13-day cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen. Conclude your Danube River adventure with a 3-night stay in Prague.
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Danube Christmas Markets $10,790 8 Experience an 8-day Danube River cruise from Munich to Budapest aboard the Scenic Amber, exploring enchanting Christmas markets and local traditions. Enjoy exclusive events and guided tours that showcase Central Europe's cultural heritage during the festive season.
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Danube Explorer $8,190 8 Experience an 8-day cruise from Budapest to Munich on the Emerald Destiny, exploring iconic cities along the Danube River. Discover Budapest's history, Vienna's architecture, and Melk Abbey, with guided tours and time for exploration.
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Capital Cities of the Danube $3,999 8 During this 8-Day Capital Cities of the Danube aboard S.S. Emilie, Cruise along the Danube River from Belgrade to Vienna, discovering some of Europe’s most captivating cities. This journey offers a blend of history, modern life, and unforgettable landscapes, all experienced from the comfort of a boutique river cruise.
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All Vienna Cruises

10 Top-Rated Danube River Cruise Ships to Vienna for 2026-2027

Ship Name Max Passengers From Summary
MS Amabella 162 $3,649 The MS Amabella offers the ultimate in custom-designed luxury. This 162-passenger vessel features a combination of amenities and design details never before seen on the great waterways of Europe.
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Viking River Cruises 190 $1,999 Viking ships showcase innovative engineering, streamlined Scandinavian design, and understated elegance. Thoughtfully engineered to get you closer to your destination, they provide unprecedented levels of comfort, including spacious staterooms with full-size verandas, the largest suites, and al fresco dining.
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MS Amalea 158 $3,449 The AmaLea debuts in 2018 and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. With a guest capacity of up to 158 passengers, guests can enjoy the luxury of space while passing by centuries-old castles, charming villages, and breathtaking scenery.
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MS Amamagna 196 $3,749 The MS Amamagna represents a new concept specifically designed to elevate luxury river cruising. Debuting in May 2019, MS Amamagna will embark on a truly memorable Danube River journey, sailing some of the most popular itineraries in Europe.
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Emerald Sky 180 $7,990 The Emerald Sky offers comfortable accommodations and an unforgettable sailing experience while navigating the Rhine, Main, Danube, and the Moselle Rivers. Sail through some of Europe?s most magical stretches of water and explore many of the continent?s most enchanting cities. The vessel's capacity is an intimate 180 guests and the ship offers a selection of wonderful amenities and features. 
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MS Amasonata 164 $3,749 The MS Amasonata is among the most luxurious and advanced river vessels in Europe, with occupancy for up to 164 passengers in comfortable cabins, gourmet dining, a pool, and even an exercise room.
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MS Amaverde 162 $3,649 The MS Amaverde offers the ultimate in custom-designed luxury. This 162-passenger vessel features a combination of amenities and design details never before seen on the great waterways of Europe.
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Scenic Amber 163 $8,790 Measuring 443 feet in length and carrying just 163 passengers, the luxury vessel, Scenic Amber marries space and intimacy with a sense of exclusivity not regularly found on Europe’s waters. Couple this with a 1:3 crew to passenger ratio and guests can expect attentive service from the minute they step aboard these illustrious river cruise liners.
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MS Vivaldi 176 $1,389 The MS Vivaldi sails on the Danube and Rhine rivers, and was built in 2009. She features three floors, an upper sun deck, and 88 guest cabins. The ship's dedicated staff is friendly, helpful, and eager to make your trip exceptional in every way. Her cabins are modern and all are equipped with shower and toilet, hairdryer, satellite TV, and safe.
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Avalon Impression 164 $3,697 The Avalon Impression, cruises along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers. Onboard amenities include an alternative dining option, an expanded fitness center, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the open-air bistro.
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Vienna Cruising Tips & Travel Guide

Johann Strauss statue, Vienna

Top 15 Things to Do and See in Vienna - Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Discover the top 15 things to do and see in Wien, Austria, for an unforgettable experience.
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Vienna

Some of Vienna's Favorite Activities

An urban adventure in Vienna puts travelers in one of the cultural meccas of Europe where Schonbrunn Palace saw Mozart give his first performance; St. Stephen’s Cathedral welcomed monarchs, and the Konzerthaus concert hall is ushering in a new era of classical music.
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Vienna Highlights
The capital city of Austria, Vienna is home to thousands of years of culture and has also served as an important part of the former Austro-Hungarian Empire. Throughout the centuries, it has expaned into a modern city, but the relics of its storied past are well preserved visitor sites like:
  • Schönbrunn Palace – an expansive palace that served as the summer home for the royal family; although it was the summer residence, its relevance as a Baroque landmark in Austria's architectural and cultural history sets it above most other buildings in Vienna.
  • Hofburg Palaces – built in the 13th century, it has been the imperial seat for more than 800 years
  • Grinzing – this neighborhood is most famous for its taverns, where you will experience a true flavor of the region as you sample its delicious locally grown and crafted wines and beers.
Before or after your trip to Vienna, your Danube River cruise will likely take you to the Wachau Valley, and on to Switzerland, Hungary, Romania, or other destinations on this long and winding river.
 
Night in Vienna.

Top Things to See and Do in Austria

Vienna, Salzburg, and Linz in Austria are teeming with cultural sites that bring the history of Europe to life. Each stop on an Austria trip shows a different side to the country, making a journey here an experience that sheds new light on life in modern-day Europe.
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Sunset view of Yonne River in Burgundy

European Rivers

The multiple rivers flowing through Europe provide the perfect mode of transit for intimate travel experiences throughout various countries! River cruises also eliminate the stress of finding public transportation or driving. This brief overview of the Rhine, Rhone, Danube and Main rivers can help guide you in selecting your best river cruise option.
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Immerse yourself in the romance of Italy

When to Visit Europe: Seasons & Temperatures

Europe is a wonderful year-round destination depending on where you want to explore. The summer is the most popular season across the continent, but the fall and spring shoulder months can offer some great deals and less tourist traffic. Read more about each region of Europe and when to go.
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Take a ride on the ferris wheel or take a stroll through the Christmas Market

Cruising Europe Christmas Markets

Explore the enchanting Christmas Markets throughout Germany, Austria and Hungary on your Europe river cruise. Drink hot mulled wine as you meander through these traditional street markets. This is sure to be a charming, festive way to spend the holiday.
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Visit charming Passau

European Cruise: When to Go?

Europe is an incredible destination all year long. However, there may be better months to visit based on your personal interests & preferences. Weather, activity options, & festivals are just a few of the factors that could determine when you travel. Here is some insight into best times for a Europe river cruise.
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Cruise the beautiful blue Danube

Best Time to Visit Austria

Learn about the best time to visit Austria, the best time to cruise the Danube River, and about some of the activities that are preferred during the respective seasons.
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Best Vienna Danube River Cruise Lines for 2026-2027

  • AMA Waterways - an all-inclusive river cruise provider that offers gorgeous itineraries to European destinations like the legendary Danube River, passing via Vienna, Austria. Sail in maximum luxury aboard the MS Amamagna, double the width of classic European river ships, with more than 50% ultra-spacious suite accommodations with full balconies.
  • CroisiEurope - Europe's market leader in river cruising, explores the mythical capitals of Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest in a single voyage, the great classic for discovering the splendors of the Blue Danube aboard the river ships MS Beethoven and MS Vivaldi.
  • Emerald Waterways - explore the delights of the Danube with carefully crafted EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE excursions, world-class dining experiences, and staffs' in-depth knowledge. Journey onboard the Emerald Sky and Emerald Sun, two of its six Star-Ships cruise the Danube rivers.

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