Experience the 10-day Danube in Depth river cruise aboard Scenic Ruby, immersing yourself in history and culture. Explore Nuremberg, where the 12th-century Imperial Castle reflects tales of the Holy Roman Empire. Venture into Regensburg, boasting Germany's best-preserved medieval town center, and Passau, a medieval trading hub with distinct river hues. Awaken in Linz, Austria, blending tradition with a vibrant arts scene. Traverse Melk's Wachau Valley, is home to the stunning UNESCO-listed Benedictine Abbey. Experience Vienna's imperial charm, music, and art. Cruise to Bratislava, where medieval and socialist architecture coexist. Finally, Budapest unveils its diverse treasures. Delight in architectural wonders, thermal baths, and lively nightlife.

Highlights

Uncover Nuremberg's turbulent past, echoes of WWII and Nuremberg Laws
Journey through Passau, where three distinct river colors meet harmoniously
Marvel at Melk's stunning UNESCO-listed Benedictine Abbey in Wachau Valley

Activities

Places Visited

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.

Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Nuremberg | Embark

Ship
1 Dinner

Welcome to Germany and the historic city of Nuremberg, where your cruise begins. Toast to the occasion during an evening reception on board your state-of-the-art Scenic space ship.

Bavaria’s second-largest city, Nuremberg is dominated by one of the most significant imperial forts of the Holy Roman Empire, the 12th-century Imperial Castle, which was the preferred residence of German kings. Its Old Town is protected by an ancient city wall, which hosts the most enchanting Christmas Markets every year.

Day 2: Nuremberg

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Behind its enchanting façade, Nuremberg also has a turbulent history. During WWII the city was favored by the Nazis for party rallies, the boycotts of Jewish businesses began here, as did the laws that denied Jewish people German citizenship – known as the ‘Nuremberg Laws’. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. Allied powers – the US, Great Britain, France, and the Soviet Union – held the Nuremberg Trials here between 1945 and 1946, where Nazi German leaders were tried for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

This morning’s choose one of the following Scenic Freechoice activities:

Walking tour of the Old Town: Explore this wonderful medieval city on foot with your local guide. Walk through the grounds of the Imperial Castle before making your way to the Old Town, where you will see St. Lawrence Church and the lively market square.
The Trials and Tribulations of WWII: Learn about the Trials and Tribulations of WWII with a visit to the Rally Grounds and Courtroom 600 (available on selected dates only), where members of the Nazi Party were tried for war crimes, a poignant reminder of the terror caused by the National Socialist regime.
Rock-cut cellars and beer tasting: Head underground to Nuremberg’s rock-cut cellars for a unique beer tasting. Walk the labyrinth of corridors and cellars that are located under the city and learn about Nuremberg's beer production that dates back centuries, all while tasting some of the delicious brews.

Your Scenic ship will set sail this afternoon towards the city of Regensburg. Relax in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the waterway. Learn about the true engineering wonders of water locks and the skills of our Captain taking you through them.

Day 3: Regensburg

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

This morning will be spent on board your 5-star Scenic ship. Wake up to a pre-ordered coffee delivered by your personal butler and enjoy a leisurely breakfast in Crystal Dining. Download the Scenic Tailormade App to listen to river commentary and gain insight into the places you’re passing as we sail on the Main-Danube Canal or opt for relaxing on the Sun Deck.

Boasting a staggering 2000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval town centers, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings UNESCO World Heritage-listed. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country. Regensburg is also fringed by the Bavarian Forest, home to hundreds of kilometers of hiking trails and deer, wild boar, fox, and otter.

This afternoon Regensburg offers up a selection of Scenic Freechoice touring activities to choose from:

Walking tour of Regensburg: Join your local guide for an afternoon walking tour of the Old Town of Regensburg. You’ll be in awe of the many perfectly preserved medieval buildings that have been standing sentinel over the Danube for centuries.
Traditional Sausage-Making Workshop: Learn how to make traditional regional sausage during a cooking class. The history of the famous Regensburger Wurst can be dated back to the 12th century when it was used to feed the hungry workers who were building the impressive cathedral in the city center.
Regensburg's Jewish heritage: Discover Regensburg’s Jewish heritage – the city was the first documented Jewish community in Germany. Learn about the rich culture that has evolved throughout the centuries and the devastation caused by the Nazi regime.

Day 4: Passau

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as ‘white gold’. Each river is distinct in color and some days you can clearly see the green, blue, and black hues where the waters meet. At the center of the Baroque city, the 13th-century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways tunnels, and archways, including an ‘Artist’s mile’ where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops, and galleries.

Decide how you will spend your day from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Highlights of the Passau walking tour: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly colored buildings that line the waterways. Visit St. Stephens Cathedral: originally built in the year 450, the church proudly stood in Passau's Old Town until a devastating fire ripped through it in 1662. It was rebuilt in its current form with an Italian-style exterior complete with a Baroque stucco interior and nowadays houses the world’s largest Catholic church organ, which boasts 17,974 pipes and 233 registers.
Paddling on the River Inn: Take in this region from a different perspective as you paddle down the Inn River past charming villages, ancient castles, and historic bridges, crossing between Germany and Austria.
Cross-border cycling: Travel further afield on a guided e-bike ride along the Inn River, during which you will cross the border from Germany to Austria. Cycle through charming towns and admire the spectacular views of the region.
Passau Photography Safari: The city of Passau has many picture-perfect locations and during this photography tour you will capture all its beauty. Visit some of the most beautiful places in Passau such as the picturesque streets, the old Town Hall, and the point where the three rivers meet.

Your Scenic Space-Ship departs late this evening, an excellent opportunity to explore the city at your own pace this afternoon and see it by night. Perhaps, join the locals heading to Neue Mitte where you’ll find high-end shops and a plethora of drinking and dining options. As the city starts winding down, we will be sailing to our next destination.

Day 5: Linz

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Wake up in Austria this morning, where your ship docks in the heart of Linz. This city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and lifestyle. The city’s quaint old town and Main Square are resplendent in Baroque architecture; while its harbor doubles as an outdoor street art gallery.

This morning choose to explore your way with Scenic Freechoice:

Explore Linz by foot: Join a local guide on a walking tour to discover the balance between the city’s vibrant history and contemporary living.
Full-day excursion to Cesky Krumlov: Journey via coach to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov. This delightful UNESCO World Heritage town is brimming with charm. Sitting on the banks of the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe with its vast array of well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. Wander this fairy-tale location with your local guide and explore the historic center before delighting in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant and some time at leisure.
Mauthausen WWII Concentration Camp: Venture out of the city to Mauthausen’s former concentration camp that housed more than 190,000 people between 1938 and 1945, during the reign of the National Socialist Party. Learn about the conditions and treatment that the prisoners lived under during this somber tour.
Linzer Torte Baking Class: For something light-hearted, join a cooking class to make your very own Linzer Torte. Learn about the 400-year history of this iconic tart, baked using handmade short-crust pastry, red currant jam, and almonds.

This afternoon and evening are at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, strap on your walking shoes to hike to Postlingberg Church, perched high above the city. Then re-board your Scenic Space-Ship where you may wish to relax in the exclusive Salt Therapy Lounge, which provides natural anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial properties.

Day 6: Melk | Dürnstein

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Your Scenic ship docks early this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. The city’s breathtaking UNESCO-listed Benedictine Abbey built high over the city is the most spectacular building in the region.

This morning offers a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions to choose from:

Glorious Melk Abbey: No visit to Melk would be complete without a guided tour of its magnificent 18th-century Benedictine Abbey. Wander its 900-year-old hallowed halls, visit the decorated Marble Hall and the library, which is filled with more than 80,000 books, and be awed by the Abbey Church, which is adorned with frescoes and intricate statues.
E-biking from Melk to Dürnstein: Embark on a guided e-bike ride to soak up the scenery along the Danube as you cycle from Melk to the quaint village of Dürnstein. You’ll pass by small villages and through rolling vineyards, stopping along the way to enjoy the river views.
Artstetten Castle: Meet the current owners of Artstetten Castle, which dates to the 13th century. It was once home to Archduke Franz Ferdinand, whose assassination sparked the beginning of WWI in 1914. See the family crypt and visit the on-site museum.

Sailing the Wachau Valley, you will be mesmerized by the sloping vineyards and charming villages. This afternoon we are docked in the quaint town of Dürnstein, where you have ample free time to wander at your leisure. Surrounded by vineyards, the town has historical buildings that date back to the 12th century, including the hilltop ruins of Dürnstein Castle where Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned between 1192 and 1193.

While you indulge in the spectacular views, it's also the perfect opportunity to indulge in some delicious local produce from the Wachau Valley. Your Cruise Director will organize a special treat for you and invite a local producer on board to share some regional delicacies that are famous in this region. Sample some Apricot dumplings and local schnapps among other delights in this breathtaking location.

This evening, relax in the Panorama Lounge and Bar where you can sip on regional beer and wine while enjoying the views of Dürnstein.

Day 7: Vienna

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Arrive early in Vienna this morning, Austria’s imperial capital. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses, Mozart and Beethoven, among others. This city oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.

Spend the day exploring the city, and take your pick from a selection of Scenic Freechoice activities:

Guided city tour & Schönbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history, as you wander its countless ornately designed rooms, hear family tales, and see the impressive gardens before taking a coach to the city center for a guided walking tour. You’ll see the Opera House, St Stephen’s Cathedral and Belvedere Palace.
Viennese Wine Stories: Journey outside of Vienna’s city center to its acclaimed wine region, which has been cultivating vines since the 12th century. Hear about Vienna’s long tradition of wine production and sample some of the famous drops.
Cycle to Danube Island: Explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, a recreational playground where locals come to enjoy bathing, boating, cycling, and relaxing on its beaches and open spaces.
Belvedere Museum: Visit one of Europe’s most stunning Baroque landmarks and explore the greatest collection of Austrian art dating from the Middle Ages to the present day, complemented by the work of international artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Max Beckmann.

This afternoon is free to wander around Vienna, so perhaps join one of the provided shuttles to the city center or simply relax on board your Scenic ship.

This evening, join an unforgettable Scenic Enrich experience.

Scenic Enrich Classical concert at Palais Liechtenstein: Breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein this evening as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned orchestra. An experience only shared with your fellow Scenic guests, you’ll be seated in Vienna’s largest secular baroque hall, an ornate space where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Day 8: Bratislava

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

As you progress down the beautiful Danube, spend the morning on board your luxurious Scenic ship as we cruise towards the Slovakian capital, Bratislava. Sit on the Sun Deck with a coffee in hand and enjoy the scenery of riverside villages or take the opportunity to visit the wellness centre for a soothing massage.

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has a history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.

As we dock in the city center, this morning’s Scenic Freechoice excursions are just steps away:

Walking tour of Bratislava: Explore Bratislava with a knowledgeable local guide to see all the highlights of the city such as the Hlavné Námestie, the main square, and the Old Town Hall while learning about the history of the city including what everyday life was like under the Iron Curtain era, the political boundary that divided Europe after WWII.
Coffee & Cake at Kormuth Bakeri: Immerse yourself in modern Slovak life with a visit to one of the city’s most famous and historic coffee houses, where you’ll enjoy coffee and cake with friendly locals. Delight in the history of the building, which is decorated in Renaissance-style paintings and frescoes.
Ancestry of the Kitchen – Bryndzové Halušky – pillowy potato dumplings cooking class: Learn about the local customs and culture through taste with this cooking class, where you will make traditional Slovak dumplings using grated potato.

Day 9: Budapest

Ship
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

This morning we arrive in Budapest, one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene.

A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from this morning:

Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts that are separated by the Danube that make up the city. Starting on the Buda side see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi Square and Elizabeth Square. End your tour with a mesmerizing piano recital at the Institute for the Blind.
Budapest’s Past & Present: This walking and coach tour will give insight into Budapest’s communist past and life today as part of the European Union, including the 1956 Hungarian revolution and the significant Jewish events that have shaped modern culture.
Ancestry of the Kitchen – Goulash cooking class: Traditional recipes have long been passed down through generations. Today you’ll be let in on the secrets of a family recipe as you learn how to make traditional Hungarian Goulash.

This afternoon is at leisure. Pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest’s thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters. Or perhaps set out to explore the Central Market Hall – the largest market in the city, built in neo-gothic style for a combination of shopping and sightseeing.

Day 10: Budapest | Disembark

1 Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast, transfer to Budapest Airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful memories with you.

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Ruby

Name: Danube River Tours & Travel
Brand: Adventure Life
Rating: 4.8 (176 reviews)

Scenic Ruby

The newly renovated Scenic Ruby features four decks including a Sun Deck, Diamond Deck, Sapphire Deck, and Jewel Deck, each of which is home to a number of suites and cabins and a handful of luxury public spaces and dining venues ? including Crystal Dining, Riverview Terrace, Portobellos and the Panorama Lounge Bar.

Dates & Prices

Per person starting at

$11,590 2-3 travelers

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.

Select a Date

Standard Stateroom E

160ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

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Standard Stateroom D

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Single Balcony Suite BS

160ft2. Single Balcony Suites are located on the Sapphire Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

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Balcony Suite C

205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

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Balcony Suite BA

205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

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Balcony Suite BB

205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

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Balcony Suite B

205ft2. Located on the Sapphire Deck these cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

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Junior Balcony Suite BJ

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire Deck, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

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Balcony Suite A

Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

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Balcony Suite P

Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

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Balcony Suite PA

Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Select a Date

Balcony Suite PP

Located on the Diamond Deck these 205ft2 cabins feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

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Junior Balcony Suite RJ

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Diamond Deck, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

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Royal Balcony Suite RA

315ft2. These suites are located on the Diamond Deck and are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.

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Royal Balcony Suite R

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Royal Panorama Suite RS

At 325ft², this suite is the largest on the ship. At the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.

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Royal Owner's Suite RO

520ft2 including the outdoor balcony. These Suites are located on the Diamond Deck and are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy. Please contact us for the Single Supplement Rate.

Payment Details

Terms & Conditions

Operated by Scenic Cruises

Included

9 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches, 9 Dinners
9 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wifi
Porterage
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Complimentary beverages
Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge and fitness area on board your Scenic Space-Ship
The freedom of our e-bikes – electrically assisted bicycles

Excluded

Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
Passport or Visa fees
All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

Map

When to Go

Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Good to ideal period to travel, and many people choose to visit at this time.

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Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.

Lisa Bridge

Danube in Depth

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Nuremberg | Embark

Day 2: Nuremberg

Day 3: Regensburg

Day 4: Passau

Day 5: Linz

Day 6: Melk | Dürnstein

Day 7: Vienna

Day 8: Bratislava

Day 9: Budapest

Day 10: Budapest | Disembark

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Ruby

Scenic Ruby

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Notes

Map

When to Go

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We Love to Talk Travel

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