9 Day Danube River Cruise

From

$2299

Land Only

$3249*

Air & Land


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Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates

Cabin E
Monarch Empress
Cabin D
Monarch Empress
Cabin C
Monarch Empress
Cabin B
Monarch Empress
Cabin A
Monarch Empress

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Book By Nov 27, 2021 & Save!

2022 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1300
Dates Embark Ship
2022 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1400
Dates Embark Ship
2022 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1500
Dates Embark Ship
2022 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1600
Dates Embark Ship
2022 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1700
Dates Embark Ship
2022 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1900
Dates Embark Ship
Previous Season Dates

Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.


Additional Information:
Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

Embarkation will begin at 2 pm however early arrivals may rest in the lounge if their assigned cabin is not ready upon check-in.

Regensburg to Budapest: Passengers arriving to Munich on Day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 2 PM. Transfers to Regensburg will depart at approximately 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM and 3 PM. The port is approximately a 2 hour drive from the Munich airport.

Passau to Budapest: Passengers arriving to Munich on Day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 2 PM. Transfers to Passau will depart at approximately 9 AM, 11 AM, 1 PM and 3 PM. The port is approximately a 2 hour drive from the Munich airport.

Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: Monarch Cruises Terms & Conditions.

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

Entry Requirements:
Passengers traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond their travel dates. All travelers are responsible to check if a visa is required for all countries on their itinerary. For visa information, check our Visas page.


Is This Trip Right for You?

This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect from three to four hours walking every touring day. The pace is moderate, however you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. There is a potential for a small number of sailings to be impacted by river water levels, or other factors which may impact safe navigation. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach and may also involve hotel accommodations.

Accommodation Details




Room 1


  • Requests are not guaranteed and are subject to each hotel's discretion and availability

Flight Details



River Cruise Package Includes

  • Flights New York-Munich, Budapest-New York or vice versa
    Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
  • Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
  • 7 nights outside cabin aboard the Deluxe Monarch Empress
  • River port charges of $190 per person
  • Cruise porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • 20 meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise
  • Services of local guides in all major cities
  • Shore excursions per itinerary
  • Entrance fees per itinerary
  • Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
 

Special Features

  • See magnificent panoramic views of Budapest from atop Fisherman's Bastion
  • Explore the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center in Bratislava
  • Enjoy a city tour of Vienna and view Hofburg Palace, Vienna Opera House and St. Stephen’s Cathedral
  • Stop in Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube
  • Tour the historic Benedictine Melk Abbey, one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture
 

River Cruise Features & Amenities

  • Gala Welcome Dinner and Farewell Dinner
  • Wine and beer with dinners
  • Locally inspired recipes
  • Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
  • Late night snack
  • Complimentary basic Wi-Fi access in public areas
  • Self-serve coffee and tea station
  • Lounge serving premium spirits
  • Fitness center
  • Non-smoking ship interior
  • Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English by licensed guides

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

Is This Trip Right for You?

This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect from three to four hours walking every touring day. The pace is moderate, however you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. There is a potential for a small number of sailings to be impacted by river water levels, or other factors which may impact safe navigation. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach and may also involve hotel accommodations.

Select departures may operate in the reverse direction.

Watch our Video!
Note: your itinerary will change depending upon the day of the week you depart. Click a day above to see what is included.

DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Hungary
Depart for Hungary

DAY 2, Wednesday - Cruise Embarkation in Budapest
Arrive in Budapest, Hungary and transfer to the port. Embarkation will begin at 2 pm. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. Tonight, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy a gala welcome dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Thursday - Budapest City Tour
Your morning tour begins on the Pest side of the city; view the Parliament, City Park and Heroes Square. Cross to Buda to see the Royal Palace, Matthias Church and the graceful medieval architecture along the cobbled streets. Explore the city's wonderful shops and cafes this afternoon on your own before you set sail for Bratislava
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Friday - Bratislava City Tour
This morning, enjoy the tranquil scenery as you sail along the scenic Danube. In the late afternoon, arrive in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, a mix of modern and Baroque architecture. This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center; view St. Martin's Cathedral, coronation site of the kings of Hungary, the 13th century Old Town Hall and the Franciscan church. Time to explore this colorful city on your own before returning to the ship for dinner. This evening, the ship will set sail to Vienna
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Saturday - Vienna City Tour
Your morning tour of romantic Vienna introduces you to this Imperial city with its legendary opulence and elegance. Drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard lined with magnificent Baroque palaces, parks and monuments. View the lavish Hofburg Palace, and the impressive Vienna Opera House. Continue to majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Parliament building. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or, join the optional tour to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once summer residence of the Hapsburgs. Visit the gorgeous baroque apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured gardens. Tonight, perhaps take the opportunity to attend an evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music" at an optional concert performance of the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens
Optional: Schonbrunn Palace Tour (PM)
Optional: Classical Viennese Concert (PM)
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6, Sunday - Melk Abbey
This morning, arrive in the village of Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube. Free time to stroll this quintessential village in the heart of the Wachau wine district. Walk along medieval cobblestone streets revealing 16th-century town houses and wine taverns. Continue cruising late this morning and relax on board as the boat cruises through the scenic Wachau Valley, with lovely storybook views of vineyards, castles, hilltop ruins and monasteries. Later, disembark in Melk for a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. View the Abbot's chambers, the Kaiser's walk, and the lavish library. The ship will set sail as you dine on board this evening
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Monday - Full Day in Passau
Today presents a wonderful opportunity to join the optional full day tour to beautiful Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg's most historic sites including the Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. After lunch at a local restaurant, there will be time to discover Salzburg on your own before returning to the ship. If you choose to remain on board, the day is free to explore the 2500-year-old Passau. Well known for its pastel patrician houses, cafes, cobblestone lanes and riverfront promenade, Passau is a town with a mix of Roman, Italian Baroque and Gothic architecture. In the early evening, all passengers will rejoin the ship and set sail for Regensburg
Optional: Full Day Tour of Salzburg
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Tuesday - Regensburg City Tour
Arrive in Regensburg this morning, one of Germany's largest and best preserved medieval cities designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour highlights the city's stunning architecture as you view the Old Town Hall, the Dom St. Peter, and the Porta Praetoria, gateway to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Marvel at beautiful churches and one of the oldest stone bridges crossing the Danube. Return to the boat or spend the afternoon at leisure discovering the delights of Regensburg on your own. The ship will remain docked in port this evening as you enjoy your final night on board
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Wednesday - Depart Germany
This morning transfer to the airport in Munich for your departure flight. The Munich airport is approximately a 1.5 hour drive from the port. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 am
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Germany
Depart for Germany

DAY 2, Wednesday - Embark in Regensburg
Arrive in Munich and transfer to the port in Regensburg. The group transfer will operate at approximately 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. The port is a 1.5 hour drive from the Munich airport. Embarkation begins at 2 pm. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. Tonight, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy a gala welcome dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Dinner

DAY 3, Thursday - Regensburg City Tour
This morning, explore Regensburg, one of Germany's largest and best preserved medieval cities, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour highlights the city's stunning architecture as you view the Old Town Hall, Dom St. Peter and the Porta Praetoria, gateway to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Marvel at beautiful churches and one of the oldest stone bridges crossing the Danube. Return to the ship for lunch or spend the afternoon at leisure discovering the delights of Regensburg on your own. In the afternoon the ship will set sail for Passau
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Friday - Morning in Passau
Dock this morning in 2500-year-old Passau, known for its pastel patrician houses, cafes, cobblestone lanes and riverfront promenade. Passau is a Bavarian town with a mix of Roman, Italian Baroque and Gothic architecture. Explore Passau independently in the morning, or, join the optional full day tour to picturesque Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg's most historic sites including the Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. After lunch at a local restaurant, there will be time to discover Salzburg on your own before returning to the ship. If you choose to remain onboard the ship, continue sailing during lunch and relax this afternoon. In the early evening, all passengers will rejoin the ship and continue sailing for Melk
Optional: Full Day Tour of Salzburg
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Saturday - Melk Abbey
Disembark in Melk this morning for a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. View the Abbot's chambers, the Kaiser's walk and the lavish library. Then, return to the ship and continue cruising through the scenic Wachau Valley. This Afternoon, arrive in the village of Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube. Free time to stroll this quintessential village in the heart of the Wachau wine district. Walk along medieval cobblestone streets revealing 16th-century town houses and wine taverns
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6, Sunday - Vienna City Tour
Your morning tour of romantic Vienna introduces you to this Imperial city with its legendary opulence and elegance. Drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard lined with magnificent Baroque palaces, parks and monuments. View the lavish Hofburg Palace, and the impressive Vienna Opera House. Continue to majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Parliament building. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or, join the optional tour to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once summer residence of the Hapsburgs. Visit the gorgeous baroque apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured gardens. Tonight, perhaps take the opportunity to attend an evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music" at an optional concert performance of the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens
Optional: Schonbrunn Palace Tour (PM)
Optional: Classical Viennese Concert (PM)
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Monday - Bratislava City Tour
This morning, enjoy the tranquil scenery as you sail along the scenic Danube. At noon, arrive in Bratislava, capital of Slovakia, a mix of modern and Baroque architecture. This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center; view St. Martin's Cathedral, coronation site of the kings of Hungary, the 13th century Old Town Hall and the Franciscan church. Time to explore this colorful city on your own before returning to the ship for dinner as you sail for stunning Budapest
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Tuesday - Budapest City Tour
Your morning tour begins on the Pest side of the city; view the Parliament, City Park and Heroes Square. Cross to Buda to see the Royal Palace, Matthias Church and the graceful medieval architecture along the cobbled streets. Explore the city's wonderful shops and cafes this afternoon on your own. Tonight, enjoy a lavish Captain's Dinner on board
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Wednesday - Depart Hungary
This morning, disembark and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 am
Meals: Breakfast

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Gate 1 Travel itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel. See more, save time, save money.
  • Tours purchased while travelling may cost an extra 10% or more
  • Tours often sell out. Avoid disappointment
  • Save your cash. Credit card processing may not be possible locally
  • Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure
  • Book Online or call to book these tours up to 1 week before your departure
  • The day the optionals operate varies by the day of the week
Schonbrunn Palace Tour

Enjoy an afternoon guided tour of the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the Hapsburg emperors. Visit the gorgeous baroque apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured and aromatic gardens.

Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.

Day #5 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Dec 2022 $52.00
Schonbrunn Palace Tour Thumbnail
Classical Viennese Concert

Experience a delightful evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music." Attend a concert featuring the classical masterpieces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens. The musicians will bring to life the passionate strains of Mozart, a child prodigy who blossomed into one of history's greatest composers and Strauss, the Waltz King, who composed the Blue Danube, the world's most famous waltz. The chamber orchestra is accompanied by a professional dance performance, recalling the golden age of the 19th-century Viennese ballrooms.

Approximate tour duration is 2.5 hours.

Day #5 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Dec 2022 $66.00
Classical Viennese Concert Thumbnail
Tour of Salzburg

Enjoy a full-day excursion to beautiful Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and inspiration for the Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg’s most historic sites including Mirabell Gardens and a stop outside the house where Mozart lived. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, and then there will be time to explore the streets of Salzburg on your own before returning to the boat.

Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.

Day #7 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Dec 2022 $105.00
Tour of Salzburg Thumbnail
Tour of Salzburg

Enjoy a full-day excursion to beautiful Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and inspiration for the Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg’s most historic sites including Mirabell Gardens and a stop outside the house where Mozart lived. Lunch is included at a local restaurant, and then there will be time to explore the streets of Salzburg on your own before returning to the boat.

Approximate tour duration is 9 hours.

Day #4 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Dec 2022 $105.00
Tour of Salzburg Thumbnail
Schonbrunn Palace Tour

Enjoy an afternoon guided tour of the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the Hapsburg emperors. Visit the gorgeous baroque apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured and aromatic gardens.

Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.

Day #6 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Dec 2022 $52.00
Schonbrunn Palace Tour Thumbnail
Classical Viennese Concert

Experience a delightful evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music." Attend a concert featuring the classical masterpieces of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens. The musicians will bring to life the passionate strains of Mozart, a child prodigy who blossomed into one of history's greatest composers and Strauss, the Waltz King, who composed the Blue Danube, the world's most famous waltz. The chamber orchestra is accompanied by a professional dance performance, recalling the golden age of the 19th-century Viennese ballrooms.

Approximate tour duration is 2.5 hours.

Day #6 01 Jan 2022 - 31 Dec 2022 $66.00
Classical Viennese Concert Thumbnail
9 Day Christmas Markets River Cruise, December 2019
Dummy Image

Dan and I really enjoyed the trip. The cruise boat was clean and inviting. Loren was always informative and helpful to all of the group on the tours in each city stop. The crew on the boat was wonderful made sure all passengers were comfortable. The chef and kitchen staff were great serving the perfect portion of tasty food. We had a great and relaxing time. Would recommend this to friends and family.

Regina M. Lillian, AL
9 Day Christmas Markets River Cruise, December 2019
Dummy Image

It was great. Fantastic crew on the Monarch ship and Lorin, the trip director, was phenomenal! I liked that we had ample time in each city to explore on our own.

Patrick C. Washington, D.C.
12 Day Danube River Cruise with Prague, July 2019
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Our trip with Gate 1 river cruises was amazing. The boat, captain, staff, chef, and cruise director were professional, well-informed, and friendly. Lorin, the cruise director, really made our trip. All excursions, guided tours, and transportation were flawless. It was an incredible trip and we will be back. Way to go Monarch Princess!!

Gerald & Krista C. Beavercreek. OH
14 Day Danube River Cruise with Budapest & Prague, July 2019
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The trip was fantastic- one of the best trips we ever took. The river cruise was terrific- the cabin, dining room and lounges were beautiful. The ship crew was so friendly. The food on the ship was excellent. Our cruise director, Katerina, worked so hard to make every one happy and she succeeded. The evening entertainment with Amir was so much fun. We are telling our friends to take a river cruise with Gate 1.

Amy Y. Scarborough, ME
16 Day Classic European River Cruise, June 2019
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Excellent, enjoyed it very much. Appreciated all the effort staff made right across the ship. Also the booking process, payment process - absolutely everything was easy. Thank you Gate 1. We loved how organized everything was and big credit and thanks to absolutely everyone on that ship ... Love you Gate 1. You will be seeing us again.

Lyn Q. Parrearra, Australia