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Sunset over Passau

Danube Delights

Munich - Budapest - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Emerald Star
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Embark on an 8-day cruise from Munich to Budapest aboard the Emerald Star. Explore Germany through guided walks on cobblestone streets and gain valuable context during Vienna and Budapest city tours. Witness how Austria and Hungary balance heritage and progress, where historic landmarks and modern infrastructure stand side by side. From UNESCO-listed town centers to engaging cultural experiences, this journey offers practical insight into why the Danube remains central to European life, past and present.
Take a quiet moment in PassauColumn on Hauptplatz in LinzMelk Abbey, Lower AustriaMorning view on Bratislava citySunset over Passau
Highlights
  • Experience Regensburg’s medieval UNESCO-listed Old Town charm
  • Explore Passau’s rebuilt Baroque old town and cathedral
  • Visit Gottweig Abbey above Austria’s UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley
  • Discover Vienna’s imperial art legacy at the Kunsthistorisches
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Munich | Regensburg | Embark

An Emerald Cruises representative will greet you upon arrival at the airport and escort you to your ship, where the welcoming captain and crew await. This evening, enjoy a lively onboard performance by a traditional Bavarian band.

EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Bavarian band on board

Please book your flight to arrive into Munich prior to 02:00 PM.

Day 2: Regensburg

Join a guided walking tour through Regensburg’s medieval center, strolling its cobblestone streets and passing the grand patrician houses of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Pause to sample traditional Bavarian sausage, a regional favorite. Alternatively, opt for a guided bike ride to the hilltop Walhalla monument, where sweeping views of the Danube and the surrounding countryside await.

EmeraldPLUS
Walking tour of Regensburg with Bavarian sausage tasting

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to the Walhalla monument

Day 3: Passau

Today, cruise into the heart of Passau, where three of Europe’s main rivers converge in the shadows of the castle. Your guided tour of this illustrious city will unveil how it was rebuilt following fires in the 17th century. Italian architects left their mark with an array of Baroque architecture that still stands today, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Alternatively, if you’re feeling active, you can join a bike tour along the River Inn, one of the three rivers converging in Passau. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing along the Danube River.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Passau

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour along the River Inn

Day 4: Melk | Durnstein

Today, sail through the fascinating UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley.

This morning, you can embark on a guided bike tour from Melk to Dürnstein, cycling past terraced vineyards, castles, and charming villages along the way. Once in Dürnstein, you can have the opportunity to hike to the ruins of Dürnstein Castle, where delightful panoramic views of the surrounding medieval landscape await.

This afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of Göttweig Abbey, a true treasure overlooking the Wachau Valley from its hilltop perch surrounded by vineyards and forests. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape since 2001, it is one of Austria's most significant Benedictine abbeys. Built in 1083, it continues to serve as a spiritual center and is home to a community of about 45 monks. Visible from a great distance, the abbey offers epic panoramic views of the Wachau Valley during your visit.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Göttweig Abbey

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour along the Danube River 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle

Day 5: Vienna

Sweeping boulevards and world-famous art exhibitions welcome you to Vienna, a city which perfectly encapsulates the opulence of the Habsburg Monarchy and their ornate Baroque palaces. For art-lovers, there’s no other place like the Austrian capital, not just because the city is packed with museums and artwork but also because of its variety. Your tour will include a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the largest art museum in the country and one of the most important museums worldwide.  

Alternatively, embark on a guided cycling tour from where your ship is docked to the idyllic Danube Island. 

Included Excursion
Vienna art tour with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Vienna

Day 6: Bratislava

A delightful scattering of Baroque palaces and Gothic architecture that tell tales of a communist past are yours to uncover as you sail towards Bratislava. Enjoy a guided tour of the city’s enchanting history, taking in the neo-Renaissance glory of the Slovak National Theater and the Episcopal Summer Palace. 

Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle and its idyllic Baroque gardens, offering the perfect backdrop to the Shakespeare festival that takes place during the summer months. 

This afternoon, enjoy one of the cruise highlights:coffee and cake in the home of a Slovakian family before being welcomed to your farewell dinner. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava

EmeraldPLUS
Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Bratislava Castle

Day 7: Budapest

Welcome to Budapest, a city generously steeped in history and culture, where ancient architecture exists alongside contemporary buildings. Enjoy a guided city tour, covering some of the highlights of Budapest and learn more about its stunning landscape and architecture. The history of the Hungarian capital shows a unique blend of cultures, cuisine and vibrant lifestyle. There is so much to take in while you pass through the bustling city, which is an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world.  

Alternatively, enjoy a hike to Gellert Hill and gaze over the Danube. 

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest

EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Gellert Hill

Day 8: Budapest | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your ship for your transfer to the airport, taking wonderful memories of the Viennese skyline and architectural masterpieces with you.  

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to the terms and conditions for further information.

Ship/Hotel

Emerald Star

Outdoor Terrace
Sundeck
Horizon bar and lounge

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Special Deals 27521
Book your Emerald River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between April 1- July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1000 per suite ($500 per person) on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $300 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to S, RA, or SA cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2026 Emerald River Cruises

Special Deals 27523
Book your Emerald Yacht cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between April 1- July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1000 per suite ($500 per person) on select departures. Savings vary by departure. Not applicable on Oceanview Staterooms (D category).

Free air offers are also available based on suite category when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 120 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $300 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to  Y, T or SA cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 120 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $200 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2027 Emerald Yacht Cruises

Per person starting at
$7,990 2-3 travelers
Emerald Single Stateroom
Single Stateroom (ES)
Single Occupancy Only. 117 sq ft. 2 single cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a deluxe single bed, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Stateroom
Stateroom (E)
162 sq ft. 9 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Stateroom
Stateroom (D)
162 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Panorama Balcony Suite (C)
180 sq ft. 19 cabins located on the Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite - 18 cabins located at Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
180 sq ft. 23 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Grand Balcony Suite
Grand Balcony Suite (S)
210 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, in-suite mini-bar available at own expense, a complimentary Nespresso machine and bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes, and slippers
Owners One-Bedroom Suite
Owner's Suite (SA)
315 sq ft. 4 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin beds, an outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, a separate bathroom and lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe, an in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer, and soft drinks

Notes

Single accommodations are available on some tours for an additional single supplement rate. Contact us for details of pricing and availability.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Choice between Emerald Plus and Emerald Active Excursions
  • Wifi
  • Complimentary Wine, Beer and Soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises Tour Manager
  • Airport transfers to and from the ship
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Guided tour of Passau
  • Guided tour of Göttweig Abbey
  • Vienna art tour with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum
  • Walking tour of Bratislava
  • Guided coach tour of Budapest
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Travelers are urged to arrange comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may occur during the tour

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This was my first experience with Adventure Life - and I couldn't have been more pleased with the trip. The guides and local staff in both Buenos Aires and Uruguay were terrific - extremely helpful and accommodating. I really enjoyed meeting the friendly staff in Buenos Aires in person (I left my bags with them for the afternoon).
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