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Passau at sunset, Germany

Enchanting Danube

Budapest to Passau - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard S.S. Maria Theresa
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Experience the shimmering waters of the fabled Danube River flowing thousands of miles through the very heart of Europe, silent witness to centuries of artistic achievement and historical events. This 8-day journey aboard S.S Maria Theresa from Budapest to Passau provides an immersive cultural tasting menu of four equally beguiling countries—ideal for first-time river cruisers as well as seasoned travelers seeking to experience yet another dimension of these much-loved destinations. Witness beyond the “must-sees” of each region, offering fresh takes on classic sites, insider knowledge of delightful under-the-radar locales, and VIP access to places only a privileged few will ever experience.

Select departures run in reverse (Passau to Budapest)
Budapest CityscapeExplore Budapest from the serene DanubeMorning view on Bratislava cityMozart Statue in ViennaEnjoy the tranquility of DurnsteinCruise down the charming Wachau valleyExplore the charming Austrian town of LinzPassau at sunset, Germany
Highlights
  • Private Viewing of the Kunstkammer Vienna
  • Behold 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Enjoy a Private Mozart and Strauss concert
  • Visit the Melk Abbey and its extraordinary baroque-style library
  • Explore Dürnstein wine estate village with tasting
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Budapest | Embark

Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, be greeted by a representative and transferred to the ship.

Day 2: Budapest

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Budapest is an enchanting city that presents a vibrant mix of medieval and modern.

In the evening, enjoy a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.

Day 3: Bratislava | Vienna

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Your ship sets sail from Bratislava later this morning and heads for Vienna today. You may relax onboard all day, perhaps enjoying a drink on the Sun Deck and taking in the scenery as the ship wends its way along the Danube Bend. When you arrive in Vienna, you’ll cap off your day with a private concert of Mozart and Strauss at a stunning Viennese palace.

Day 4: Vienna

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Vienna is a cultural treasure trove revered for its art and music (and sinfully rich pastries). Experience the “City of Waltzes” with your choice of tours, as well as an expertly led tour of an extraordinary collection of art at the renowned Vienna Art History Museum.

You have leisure time after your tour to explore Vienna on your own. You might wish to visit the Albertina Museum, which houses one million old-master prints and an impressive collection of works by 19th- and 20th-century painters, ranging from Renoir to Rothko.If you’d like to get a little exercise and see a completely different side of Vienna, borrow a bike from the ship and explore Danube Island and Prater Park. (For a wonderful view of the region, ride the Ferris wheel in Prater Park.)

Day 5: Dürnstein | Melk

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Dürnstein is one of the favorite towns along the Danube, a lovely place to wander cobblestone lanes, browse quaint shops and maybe hike up to a ruined castle (with an intriguing tale all its own). You can also opt for a tasting or learn all about the world’s costliest spice from the Wachau Valley’s only saffron grower. Later, visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey and its extraordinary baroque-style library. You have two ports of call in the incredibly scenic valley, Dürnstein and Melk, and an assortment of delightful ways to explore this lovely region.

Day 6: Linz (Salzburg)

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Mozart’s birthplace of Salzburg is nestled in a glorious alpine setting that sparkles like a winter wonderland. Linz may be best known for its famous Linzer torte, but it’s also a hotbed for the arts. See the sights with a local expert and visit a family at their farm in the countryside. Austria’s third-largest city, Linz boasts a long history of trading and textile manufacturing, but these days it is perhaps best known for its electronic arts and annual festival.

Day 7: Passau

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Passau is a crossroads in more ways than one, as three rivers meet here and three nations nearly do, making for a fascinating cultural mosaic. Get to know the town and its main claim to fame—Europe’s largest pipe organ—or “Let’s Go” with an invigorating riverside hike or bike ride.

In the evening, take delight in a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner.

Day 8: Passau | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
After disembarking the ship, be transferred to Munich Airport for your flight home.

Ship/Hotel

S.S. Maria Theresa

Fine Dining aboard S.S. Maria Theresa
S.S. Maria Theresa Lobby
S.S. Maria Theresa Lounge

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Early Booking Savings
Book by March 31, 2024, and save 10% on select 2025 cruises when you pay in full at the time of booking. This promotion is valid for new individual bookings on select 2025 itineraries and departure dates only. It can be combined with other promotions and is capacity-controlled. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
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Waived Single Supplement
Book by March 31, 2024, and enjoy a waived single supplement for solo travelers. This promotion is valid for new bookings on select 2024 departure dates. It is applicable to select stateroom categories only and is not applicable to suites. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
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Per person starting at
$3,299
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.

Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.
S.S. Maria Theresa Classic Cabin
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Classic
Magnificent appointed riverview stateroom (162 sq ft - 15 sq m) located on the Bavarian Deck. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers.
S.S. Maria Theresa French Balcony
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French Balcony
Sumptuous appointed riverview stateroom (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) located on the Schönbrunn Deck with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers.
S.S. Maria Theresa Deluxe Balcony
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Deluxe Balcony
Luxuriant appointed riverview stateroom(194 sq ft - 18 sq m) located on the Hofburg Deck with an open-air balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers.
S.S. Maria Theresa Suite
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Suite
Lavishly appointed riverview suite (305 sq ft - 28.3 sq m) located on the Hofburg Deck with an open-air balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water.
S.S. Maria Theresa Grand Suite
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Grand Suite
Luxurious appointed riverview grand suite (410 sq ft - 38 sq m) with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hair dryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen and bottled water.The Grand Suite offers extra benefits, including a separate spacious living room, bathroom with a separate rain shower and tub, and secluded toilet and bidet area.

Notes

Please Note: Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.

- All fares are per guest in US Dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
- Single Supplement applies for single accommodation. Solo occupancy pricing is dependent on cabin type, contact us for details.
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
  • Bilingual English-speaking guide
  • Unlimited Wifi
  • All gratuities, shipboard and shoreside 
  • Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
  • Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
  • Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
  • Guided “Do as the Locals Do” and “Let's Go” programs
  • State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
  • Cultural enrichment, including a Signature Lecture
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Port Fees
  • Passport or Visa fees

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