The Danube, Vienna and Budapest river cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest, 18 November 2027 (7 nights)

Vilshofen is a charming German town on the edge of the breathtaking Bavarian Forest and the banks of the Danube, boasting sensational scenery worth taking the time to admire, a captivating old town you’ll want to explore, and a laid-back atmosphere worth enjoying between visits to bigger (and often busier) towns and cities. Known for being the birthplace of Josef Groll, a famous German brewer commonly believed to have created the first Pilsner lager, you can certainly expect to find somewhere to sample the local brews in Vilshofen. You’ll also find several places to sample the local cuisine, and some charming boutique shopping experiences you won’t want to miss out on. Beyond this, though, Vilshofen is all about embracing the great outdoors and soaking in the relaxing ambiance of such a quaint riverside town. Whether you’re looking to spend some time strolling Vilshofen old town, a hike up to a hilltop viewpoint, or a scenic stroll along the Danube, there are plenty of places to enjoy the great outdoors in and around Vilshofen. The definition of a hidden gem, your time here will be memorable, however you choose to spend it.

Austria’s third-largest city and one of the most interesting places to visit when cruising the Danube, Linz is a fascinating destination where you’ll find exciting architecture – both modern and historic – alongside experimental artwork, cutting-edge technology, and unique historic sites. An UNESCO City of Media Arts, it prides itself on innovation, and this affords the city a lively atmosphere; couple this with the culinary scene and it’s safe to say Linz is unlike anywhere else in the world. If you want to soak up the city’s culture, you’ll find a charming old town with boutique shopping opportunities and authentic culinary experiences in the heart of Linz. However, you’ll also find incredible destinations like the Ars Electronica Center here – a museum of the future which touches on topics from self-driving cars and robotics to 3D printing and so much more. That doesn’t mean that you can’t spend some time soaking up the sunshine and appreciating the great outdoors here, though; Linz is right on the river, meaning there are some incredible riverside routes to take advantage of here. Or, if you drive just over an hour south of the city, you’ll come across the stunning Kalkalpen National Park, one of the best places in the region for hiking. So, ultimately, however you want to spend your time in Linz, there’s something to look forward to.

A hidden gem on the banks of the Danube, Grein is a charming Austrian town where you can indulge in authentic regional cuisine, admire vibrant landscapes, and explore intriguing historical sites. Overlooked by the 15th-century fortification Schloss Greinburg, it is a stunning destination any time of year – whether blanketed with white snow in the winter or surrounded by luscious green woodland in the summertime. You’ll also find Austria’s oldest theatre here, which opened in 1791, highlighting just how well-preserved the historic buildings are. With easy access to numerous popular hiking routes, Grein is also an excellent destination for exploring the Austrian countryside, though you’ll also have just as much fun strolling more casually along the riverfront. Among the more quaint destinations on cruises along the Danube River, Grein is the perfect place to immerse yourself in small-town life and take a moment to appreciate everything you’ve experienced on your travels so far.

A charming Austrian town on the Danube River, Dürnstein is a quaint cruise destination known for its dramatic mountainous backdrop, vineyard-blanketed valleys, and unique red-tiled roofing – which makes the yellow-walled buildings of this town stand-out against the greenery of the surrounding area. Named for Dürnstein Castle, just one of the interesting landmarks you can visit when you arrive, this destination is one of the most picturesque places on the banks of this winding river; here, you’ll find charming cafes serving traditional pastries and fresh coffee, wineries where you can sample locally produced wines (the Riesling being a particular highlight of the Wachau wine region), and more. It’s also a fantastic place to put on your walking shoes, with calm riverside strolls and hikes into the hills equally rewarding. Although, if you’re looking forward to a laid-back visit to Dürnstein, you’ll find everything you need mere moments from each other – so, this destination really is ideal for every type of traveller.

Vienna, the City of Music, is one cruise destination you’re not going to want to miss out on the chance to visit. The capital city of Austria and the most populous urban centre on the Danube River, this is one of the world’s most livable cities – meaning you won’t have any trouble finding modern comforts among the historic landmarks littering the landscape. In fact, you’ll find an abundance of modern attractions and activities among the historic sites, interesting museums, and impressive monuments here. The Museum of Applied Arts, Vienna State Opera, and Otto-Wagner Pavilion are just a handful of examples of this. Vienna, though, is also known for its coffee culture and several culinary delights, from Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel to Knödel dumplings and Frankfurters. Fear not, though, for it’s also one of Europe’s most vegan-friendly cities, so everyone will find something delicious to enjoy while visiting – be that coffees and cakes, beers and sausages, or something else tasty. For those of you who want to take advantage of the welcoming weather this Central European capital enjoys, Vienna is home to several vibrant parks worth taking a stroll through. And, the Danube-Auen National Park borders the city, so you won’t have to travel very far to immerse yourself even more in this region’s charming nature. A destination with something for everyone to enjoy, Vienna is always a highlight on any cruise adventure in Central Europe.

Cruise along the Danube River, explore stunning architecture, and immerse yourself in the history and culture of Hungary’s vibrant capital.