Delightful Danube

Budapest Panoramic Highlights with Castle Hill

This panoramic tour is a wonderful way to get an overview of the city if you have never been here before. It will carry you from Heroes’ Square, created in 1896 to honor the thousand-year anniversary of Hungary’s founding and its greatest historical figures, past some of the city’s most striking architectural sights—Dohány Street Synagogue, the Hungarian National Museum, the state opera house, St. Stephen’s Basilica and the truly stunning Parliament Building—to Castle Hill, which has been called the heart of the nation. The city of Buda began here, when King Béla built a strong keep in 1243 as a defense against Mongol invaders; a castle replaced the simple fortress, and over the centuries other castles replaced that one. The current castle is primarily 18th century; a museum dedicated to Budapest’s archaeological finds is housed there, and the Castle Hill district has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll go inside the magnificent 700-year-old Matthias Church, named for one of Hungary’s greatest kings, and then wend your way on foot to the picturesque Fisherman’s Bastion, whose seven fairytale-like towers represent the seven tribes that originally settled the region. It offers a glorious view of the city and the Danube below.

Note: Visits to the interior of Matthias Church may not be possible on some weekends and Catholic holidays.

Jewish Budapest (Jewish Heritage Departures only)

On your way into the Jewish Quarter, take a panoramic drive along the UNESCO-designated Andrassy Avenue. Among its beautiful neo-Renaissance architecture are such sites as Heroes’ Square, the Franz Liszt Memorial House, the House of Terror, and the Castle District.

You will get off the coach near the Dohány Synagogue. The Great Synagogue of Budapest (also known as the Central Synagogue) on Dohány Street is a good starting point to learn about Jewish Budapest. The Dohány Synagogue is the largest in Europe and the 2nd largest Synagogue in the world.

Our Jewish Heritage Program allows you to dive into Central Europe’s enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues, and more. Capacity restrictions apply. If you are interested in participating any of our Jewish Heritage excursions, we strongly suggest that you reach out to [email protected] at least 10 days prior to your departure to reserve your spot. Please note: some sites may be closed for inside viewing during the High Holidays, Passover, and other significant events.

“Morning with the Masters:” Klimt at the Belvedere

The Belvedere is a Baroque palatial complex commissioned during an immensely productive Habsburg building spree. Originally the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, the complex was acquired by Empress Maria Theresa after his death and turned into an exhibition venue for imperial art collections. In this way, The Belvedere become one of the first public museums in the world. Today it is one of the finest art collections anywhere, making it an incredibly popular destination for Vienna tourism. Take a tour of the Upper Belvedere exhibits, including the world’s largest collection of works by Austrian artist Gustav Klimt. His most famous work, “The Kiss,” is on display here.

Jewish Vienna

Explore the “City of Waltzes” from a Jewish heritage perspective on today’s outing. Beginning at the Judenplatz, you’ll learn about the community’s history and follow in the footsteps of some of the most internationally well-known figures. Your guide will take you by the Shoah Monument and Jewish museum, then stop at the Stadttempel, Vienna’s main temple and the only synagogue to have survived the “Night of Broken Glass”—a pogrom against Jews throughout Nazi Germany, Austria and other areas in the region. This temple dates back to 1826 and is the only synagogue in Vienna built in the simple, yet elegant, “Biedermeier Style.”

Note: The synagogue will not be available for visits on Jewish holidays; if unavailable, we will visit the Vienna Jewish Museum instead.

Our Jewish Heritage Program allows you to dive into Central Europe’s enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues, and more. Capacity restrictions apply. If you are interested in participating any of our Jewish Heritage excursions, we strongly suggest that you reach out to [email protected] at least 10 days prior to your departure to reserve your spot. Please note: some sites may be closed for inside viewing during the High Holidays, Passover, and other significant events.

Melk Abbey with Library Visit

The Babenbergs, a great medieval ducal family that controlled a wide swath of Austria before yielding to the Habsburgs, were the first to erect a castle on the hill above Melk, which they subsequently gave to Benedictine monks. These monks, some 900 years ago, turned it into a fortified abbey and the greatest center of learning in Central Europe. Their library was celebrated far and wide (and still is—Umberto Eco paid tribute to it in his best-selling novel The Name of the Rose). Monks there created more than 1,200 manuscripts, sometimes spending an entire lifetime hand-lettering a single volume. Today the library contains some 100,000 volumes, among them more than 80,000 works printed before 1800. This beautiful complex, completely redone in the early 18th century, is a wonderful example of baroque art and architecture, and the views from its terrace are spectacular. As you walk through the abbey’s Marble Hall with your guide, look up at the ceiling fresco painted by Paul Troger: Those classical gods and goddesses represent Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI, allegorically bringing his people from darkness to light and demonstrating the link he claimed to the original Roman Empire.

Mauthausen Concentration Camp

Among the largest Nazi concentration camps in Europe during the second world war, Mauthausen is now a place of somber reflection, dedicated to honoring its victims and preserving evidence as a reminder of one the darkest chapters in our collective history. A local guide will share insights into the lives of the people imprisoned here during a tour of the grounds that will bring you through the prisoner barracks, the granite quarry where inmates were forced to work, and the infamous “stairs of death.”

Lunch at a local restaurant will be included as part of this experience.

Our Jewish Heritage Program allows you to dive into Central Europe’s enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues, and more. Capacity restrictions apply. If you are interested in participating any of our Jewish Heritage excursions, we strongly suggest that you reach out to [email protected] at least 10 days prior to your departure to reserve your spot. Please note: some sites may be closed for inside viewing during the High Holidays, Passover, and other significant events.

Let’s Go: Scenic Bavarian River Biking

Set off on an invigorating bike ride from Engelhartszell to Passau, led by an experienced professional bike guide. Wind your way through the lovely countryside, along the Danube’s right side, into the picturesque Danube Valley. These particular landscapes are some of the most beautiful in all of Europe—characterized by expansive vineyards, tree-lined slopes, and castle-dotted hillsides—and seamlessly blend the region’s cultural, historical and natural components together. Pedal onwards toward Passau, past more charming villages, meadows and orchards, rounding out your trip in Passau’s Old Town.

Home Hosted Visit

A local family welcomes you into their home today for a deeply personal and rare travel experience. You and your small cohort will get a sneak peek into real Bavarian life as you chat with your hosts over a snack of your hosts’ choice—typically coffee and cake or a traditional brotzeit spread comprised of bread, various toppings, and beer. They’ll share stories of a life lived in Passau, and you are encouraged to ask questions to better engage with local culture!

Fairytale Forest Adventure

In the woods outside Passau lies the Saußbachklamm, a tiny creek running through a picturesque rocky landscape. Continue hiking deeper into the woods with your local guide, and you’ll arrive at a charming cabin, where the owner will be waiting to serve you their favorite local treats, such as smoked fish, craft beer, and specialty schnapps.

Meet the Locals

This city tour leaves no stone unturned. As you walk around Passau with an expert guide, you’ll learn the history of the city, admire the must-see sites, and uncover hidden gems. What truly sets this experience apart are the local vendors you’ll meet along the way. Pop-in to meet craftsmen at work and listen to their tales of living in the city as they show off their artistry. Who you’ll meet depends on what businesses are open that day. Perhaps a pottery maker? A goldsmith? A baker? Or an artist? Whatever your visits may be, you’ll leave with a little gift by which to remember your day in Passau.

Ilz River Hike

One unique way to experience life like a local—look to mimic their favorite escapes. Your hiking path along the Ilz today is one that is much loved by the people of Passau when they seek to get active and find peace in nature. We’ll begin at our dock and head to the Veste Oberhaus, a striking fortress overlooking the city. During the hike, you’ll have the opportunity to take a break for refreshments on your own or simply stop and appreciate the view.

Nights Out: Regensburg Cathedral Choir

This evening, Regensburger Domspatzen will treat you to a private concert in their famous Gothic cathedral. Literally translated to “The Regensburg Cathedral Sparrows,” the Domspatzen is the oldest boys’ choir in the world, dating back to the 10th century.

Regensburg on Stage: The Living City Tour

People have been describing Regensburg as “old and new” for a thousand years. A single structure perfectly illustrates this: Porta Praetoria, the gate built by the Romans during Marcus Aurelius’ reign. The gate and adjacent watchtower have been incorporated into a much newer building, but the plaster has been removed to reveal the ancient stones laid so long ago.

As you walk through the cobbled lanes of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, the city’s 2,000-year history is similarly revealed: the Stone Bridge that made Regensburg a 12th-century trading powerhouse, the Gothic town hall where the Imperial Diet met for three centuries, the 13th-century fortified patrician houses, and the spectacular Cathedral of St. Peter, whose magnificent 14th-century stained-glass windows alone are worth your walk.

You’ll have free time to explore on your own. It’s very hard to get lost in Regensburg because the spires of the cathedral are visible all over town, so don’t hesitate to roam. The historic quarter not only boasts almost a thousand beautiful old buildings, but also many cozy pubs and some great shopping. The ship is docked conveniently close, so it’s easy to drop your treasures off and go back for more.

Jewish Regensburg

Join your local guide for a walking tour through the delightfully medieval town of Regensburg. Stroll over the Iron Bridge and on to the magnificent Stone Bridge, and pass by the architectural Gothic masterpiece of St. Peter’s Cathedral. Regensburg is the oldest documented settlement of Jewish people in Germany and your walk through the former Jewish Quarter (Neupfarrplatz) will introduce you to their enduring legacy here. See the Dani Karavan Monument memorializing the original Regensburg Synagogue and visit Oskar Schindler’s house.

Make your way to the New Synagogue for a presentation about Jewish culture and history in Regensburg.

Our Jewish Heritage Program allows you to dive into Central Europe’s enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues, and more. Capacity restrictions apply. If you are interested in participating any of our Jewish Heritage excursions, we strongly suggest that you reach out to [email protected] at least 10 days prior to your departure to reserve your spot. Please note: some sites may be closed for inside viewing during the High Holidays, Passover, and other significant events.

Nights Out: Regensburg Cathedral Choir

This evening, Regensburger Domspatzen will treat you to a private concert in their famous Gothic cathedral. Literally translated to “The Regensburg Cathedral Sparrows,” the Domspatzen is the oldest boys’ choir in the world, dating back to the 10th century.

Regensburg on Stage: The Living City Tour

People have been describing Regensburg as “old and new” for a thousand years. A single structure perfectly illustrates this: Porta Praetoria, the gate built by the Romans during Marcus Aurelius’ reign. The gate and adjacent watchtower have been incorporated into a much newer building, but the plaster has been removed to reveal the ancient stones laid so long ago.

As you walk through the cobbled lanes of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, the city’s 2,000-year history is similarly revealed: the Stone Bridge that made Regensburg a 12th-century trading powerhouse, the Gothic town hall where the Imperial Diet met for three centuries, the 13th-century fortified patrician houses, and the spectacular Cathedral of St. Peter, whose magnificent 14th-century stained-glass windows alone are worth your walk.

You’ll have free time to explore on your own. It’s very hard to get lost in Regensburg because the spires of the cathedral are visible all over town, so don’t hesitate to roam. The historic quarter not only boasts almost a thousand beautiful old buildings, but also many cozy pubs and some great shopping. The ship is docked conveniently close, so it’s easy to drop your treasures off and go back for more.

“From Hops Field to Beer Stein” Farm Visit

Hops vines grow up their strings in a field tower almost twice a person’s height. They’re grown for their flowers, which add a distinctive flavor to beer—but the fields they grow in add a distinctive flavor to the hops. You could call it terroir for beer, and you can delve into hops cultivation and hops brewing today. Travel through Bavaria’s Holledau region, the largest hops growing district in the world, and meet an enthusiastic ambassador of hops growing and beer making. She will give you a quick and lively history of hops in Germany—including Bavaria’s law governing the making of beer, which has specified since 1560 that the only ingredients permitted in beer are water, barley and hops—and lead you on a tour through the growing fields her family owns, followed by a craft beer tasting in the cozy barn turned beer hall. It’s a delicious way to get to know a fascinating aspect of the international farm-to-table movement.

Home Hosted Visit

A local family welcomes you into their home today for a deeply personal and rare travel experience. You and your small cohort will get a sneak peek into real Bavarian life as you chat with your hosts over a snack of your hosts’ choice—typically coffee and cake or a traditional brotzeit spread comprised of bread, various toppings, and beer. They’ll share stories of a life lived in Passau, and you are encouraged to ask questions to better engage with local culture!

Fairytale Forest Adventure

In the woods outside Passau lies the Saußbachklamm, a tiny creek running through a picturesque rocky landscape. Continue hiking deeper into the woods with your local guide, and you’ll arrive at a charming cabin, where the owner will be waiting to serve you their favorite local treats, such as smoked fish, craft beer, and specialty schnapps.

Meet the Locals

This city tour leaves no stone unturned. As you walk around Passau with an expert guide, you’ll learn the history of the city, admire the must-see sites, and uncover hidden gems. What truly sets this experience apart are the local vendors you’ll meet along the way. Pop-in to meet craftsmen at work and listen to their tales of living in the city as they show off their artistry. Who you’ll meet depends on what businesses are open that day. Perhaps a pottery maker? A goldsmith? A baker? Or an artist? Whatever your visits may be, you’ll leave with a little gift by which to remember your day in Passau.

Let’s Go: Bicycle Ride along the Inn River

The Inn River rises in the Alps, near Innsbruck (hence the name of the famous Swiss ski resort) and flows through three nations (Switzerland, Austria, and Germany) on its way to Passau, where it joins the Danube. While the Danube bike path may be Europe’s best-known route for bicyclists, the Inn River bike path, which follows the river from Innsbruck to Passau, has plenty of fans. The route through the Inn River valley outside Passau is an especially attractive stretch, with great views of the lovely countryside, picturesque villages, and the sparkling clear river itself. Your guide will make sure you know the local traffic and safety rules before you and your group set out along the partly flat and paved path. You’ll be traveling on both sides of the river, crossing between Germany and Austria as you cross the Inn, and your journey will include a comfort stop before returning to the ship. All in all, it’s an idyllic way to enjoy the scenery and get some exercise at the same time.

Melk Abbey with Library Visit

The Babenbergs, a great medieval ducal family that controlled a wide swath of Austria before yielding to the Habsburgs, were the first to erect a castle on the hill above Melk, which they subsequently gave to Benedictine monks. These monks, some 900 years ago, turned it into a fortified abbey and the greatest center of learning in Central Europe. Their library was celebrated far and wide (and still is—Umberto Eco paid tribute to it in his best-selling novel The Name of the Rose). Monks there created more than 1,200 manuscripts, sometimes spending an entire lifetime hand-lettering a single volume. Today the library contains some 100,000 volumes, among them more than 80,000 works printed before 1800. This beautiful complex, completely redone in the early 18th century, is a wonderful example of baroque art and architecture, and the views from its terrace are spectacular. As you walk through the abbey’s Marble Hall with your guide, look up at the ceiling fresco painted by Paul Troger: Those classical gods and goddesses represent Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI, allegorically bringing his people from darkness to light and demonstrating the link he claimed to the original Roman Empire.

“Morning with the Masters:” Klimt at the Belvedere

The Belvedere is a Baroque palatial complex commissioned during an immensely productive Habsburg building spree. Originally the summer residence of Prince Eugene of Savoy, the complex was acquired by Empress Maria Theresa after his death and turned into an exhibition venue for imperial art collections. In this way, The Belvedere become one of the first public museums in the world. Today it is one of the finest art collections anywhere, making it an incredibly popular destination for Vienna tourism. Take a tour of the Upper Belvedere exhibits, including the world’s largest collection of works by Austrian artist Gustav Klimt. His most famous work, “The Kiss,” is on display here.

Vienna’s Historic Trails and Local Treats

In many ways a must-visit destination for both the art lover and the gourmand, Vienna is full of artistic and culinary treasures. Today’s walking tour is all about immersing ourselves in that side of this beautiful city.

Our menu for the day includes a stop for coffee and strudel at a local coffee house—a hallmark of Viennese culture—and a glass of Viennese wine from one of the city’s oldest cellars. These treats will fuel our walks to see the Kinsky Palace, the statues of the Heldenplatz, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and more.

Budapest Panoramic Highlights with Castle Hill

This panoramic tour is a wonderful way to get an overview of the city if you have never been here before. It will carry you from Heroes’ Square, created in 1896 to honor the thousand-year anniversary of Hungary’s founding and its greatest historical figures, past some of the city’s most striking architectural sights—Dohány Street Synagogue, the Hungarian National Museum, the state opera house, St. Stephen’s Basilica and the truly stunning Parliament Building—to Castle Hill, which has been called the heart of the nation. The city of Buda began here, when King Béla built a strong keep in 1243 as a defense against Mongol invaders; a castle replaced the simple fortress, and over the centuries other castles replaced that one. The current castle is primarily 18th century; a museum dedicated to Budapest’s archaeological finds is housed there, and the Castle Hill district has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll go inside the magnificent 700-year-old Matthias Church, named for one of Hungary’s greatest kings, and then wend your way on foot to the picturesque Fisherman’s Bastion, whose seven fairytale-like towers represent the seven tribes that originally settled the region. It offers a glorious view of the city and the Danube below.

Note: Visits to the interior of Matthias Church may not be possible on some weekends and Catholic holidays.

Budapest Walk with Local Treats

Today your guide will show you how to snack around Budapest like a local, starting with a tram ride to the House of Parliament. Hop off the tram and take a short walk to your first treat: a coffee break at the First Strudel House of Pest. Energized by your cup of coffee, you’ll continue your walk down to St. Stephen’s Basilica—a handsome Neo-Classical building that is one of Budapest’s most significant cultural sites.

From there, we’ll head to the Great Market Hall to sample some traditional Hungarian fare, such as salami, sausages and cheese, while your local expert explains the intricacies of Hungarian cuisine.