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Vienna Danube River Cruises

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Johann Strauss statue, Vienna
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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.
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10 Best Danube River Cruises Visiting Vienna for 2025-2026

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Budapest Cityscape

Best of the Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $4,239
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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Hungarian parliament, Budapest

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 $3,939
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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Detailed ornament at a Christmas Market

Danube Christmas Markets

8 Days from $10,790
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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Bratislava

Romantic Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,749
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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Stop in historic Regensburg on your Danube river cruise

Christmastime on the Danube (Westbound)

7 Days from $3,579
Enjoy centuries-old Christmas markets and historical landmarks on a 7-day river cruise on the Avalon Impression from Vienna to Nuremberg. At the Christmas markets, you can 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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Budapest

The Romantic Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,449
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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Frauenkirche church in Nuremberg

Legendary Danube - Cruise Only

8 Days from $4,049
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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Panoramic view of Budapest cityscape

Blue Danube Discovery - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,949
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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Budapest

Melodies of the Danube

13 Days from $5,624
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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All Vienna Luxury Tours and Cruises

10 Best Luxury Danube River Cruises to Vienna for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Christmas Markets on the Danube $5,114 11 Nov 28, 2025 Board the MS Amabella for this unique 11-day adventure visiting some of Europe's most enchanting Christmas Markets on the scenic Danube River route from Nuremberg to Budapest. Spend 2 nights in Prague, Czech Republic before departing toward historic German towns like Regensburg and Passau, and Austrian towns of Melk and Vienna.
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Blue Danube Discovery - Cruise Only $3,839 8 Nov 22, 2025 Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg aboard the MS Amalea, exploring Europe’s artistic and cultural treasures. Visit Vienna, Passau, and UNESCO-listed Regensburg, savor Sacher-Torte, and admire the Wachau Valley’s vineyards.
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Danube Christmas Markets $10,790 8 Dec 07, 2026 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 Mar 25, 2026 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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Legendary Danube $5,024 11 May 18, 2025 Fall in love with the Danube on this 14-day Danube River cruise aboard the MS Amasonata. Discover some of the most important cities such as Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Linz, Vienna, and Budapest, and select from a large variety of daily activities and excursions. As you cruise through Eastern Germany, don't miss the excellent Bavarian cuisine!
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Grand Christmas & New Year's $7,899 13 Dec 22, 2025 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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Christmastime on the Danube (Eastbound) $3,579 7 Dec 04, 2025 Enjoy this magical time of year with a Christmastime river cruise vacation starting in the Nuremberg, on through the heart of Germany, and ending in Austria aboard the magnificent Avalon Envision.
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Danube Christmas Markets with Prague $11,750 11 Dec 04, 2026 Experience an 11-day cruise on the Scenic Amber, journeying from Prague to Budapest. Discover the stunning Gothic architecture, historic sites, and festive markets while savoring local delicacies.
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Danube Explorer & Highlights of Budapest $9,490 10 Jul 09, 2025 Join this 10-day Danube Explorer & Budapest Highlights Cruise on Emerald Luna. Discover five countries and UNESCO sites, experiencing central Europe's essence. Immerse in local encounters, traditions, and cuisine. Uncover history, landmarks, and culture along the Danube's banks.
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Danube Dreams (Westbound) $3,909 8 Aug 08, 2025 Set sail on an 8-day river cruise aboard the Avalon Passion. Journey the picturesque Danube through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany, exploring Central Europe’s breathtaking capitals and delightful towns.
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All Vienna Cruises

10 Top-Rated Danube River Cruise Ships to Vienna for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
MS Amastella $3,449 May 17, 2025 With occupancy for up to 158 passengers, the MS Amastella is one of Europe's newest and most innovative riverboats, featuring a variety of staterooms to choose from (including many with Twin or French Balconies), a lounge, multiple outdoor areas and panoramic sun decks, and even a heated pool with a swim-up bar.
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MS Amabella $3,649 May 16, 2025 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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MS Amasonata $3,749 May 14, 2025 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 $3,639 May 15, 2025 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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MS Amamagna $3,749 May 16, 2025 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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MS Amalea $3,449 May 17, 2025 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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Scenic Amber $8,790 Jun 10, 2025 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 Amareina $3,549 May 14, 2025 The AmaReina features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Our exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues.
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Viking River Cruises $1,999 May 14, 2025 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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Emerald Destiny $7,990 Sep 13, 2025 Navigate the European rivers, Danube, Rhine, and Main aboard the Emerald Destiny. The vessel, with a capacity for 180 guests, offers a selection of wonderful amenities and features. Combining elegance and comfort, in both the public areas and suites, you will be sure to enjoy your European river cruise aboard Emerald Destiny.
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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 2025-2026

  • 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 France, MS Beethoven, and MS Amacerto. 
  • 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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