15 Day Danube River Cruise with Romania
From
$3549
Land Only
$4599*
Air & Land
Hotels/Plans Available for Departure Dates
| Cabin E | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monarch Queen | ||
| Hotel Opera | Timisoara | |
| Hilton Sibiu | Sibiu | |
| Hotel Aro Palace | Brasov | |
| Sheraton Bucharest Hotel | Bucharest | |
| Cabin D | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monarch Queen | ||
| Hotel Opera | Timisoara | |
| Hilton Sibiu | Sibiu | |
| Hotel Aro Palace | Brasov | |
| Sheraton Bucharest Hotel | Bucharest | |
| Cabin C | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monarch Queen | ||
| Hotel Opera | Timisoara | |
| Hilton Sibiu | Sibiu | |
| Hotel Aro Palace | Brasov | |
| Sheraton Bucharest Hotel | Bucharest | |
| Cabin B | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monarch Queen | ||
| Hotel Opera | Timisoara | |
| Hilton Sibiu | Sibiu | |
| Hotel Aro Palace | Brasov | |
| Sheraton Bucharest Hotel | Bucharest | |
| Cabin A | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monarch Queen | ||
| Hotel Opera | Timisoara | |
| Hilton Sibiu | Sibiu | |
| Hotel Aro Palace | Brasov | |
| Sheraton Bucharest Hotel | Bucharest | |
| Suite | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monarch Queen | ||
| Hotel Opera | Timisoara | |
| Hilton Sibiu | Sibiu | |
| Hotel Aro Palace | Brasov | |
| Sheraton Bucharest Hotel | Bucharest | |
| Cabin ES Single Only | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monarch Queen | ||
| Hotel Opera | Timisoara | |
| Hilton Sibiu | Sibiu | |
| Hotel Aro Palace | Brasov | |
| Sheraton Bucharest Hotel | Bucharest | |
Select a Date to Book
Select a Date to Book
Book By Aug 20, 2026 & Save!
| 2027 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1650 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
|
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
|||||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4349 | $5149 | $6499* | $7299* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4249 | $5049 | $6399* | $7199* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3899 | $4699 | $5949* | $6749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3699 | $4499 | $5749* | $6549* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3549 | $4349 | $5449* | $6249* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3549 | $4349 | $5449* | $6249* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3549 | $4349 | $4949* | $5749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3799 | $4599 | $5199* | $5999* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4349 | $5149 | $5649* | $6449* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4249 | $5049 | $5549* | $6349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3899 | $4699 | $5249* | $6049* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3799 | $4599 | $5149* | $5949* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3549 | $4349 | $4899* | $5699* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3549 | $4349 | $4599* | $5399* | |||
| 2027 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1850 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
|
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
|||||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4749 | $5549 | $6899* | $7699* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4649 | $5449 | $6799* | $7599* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4299 | $5099 | $6349* | $7149* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4099 | $4899 | $6149* | $6949* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3949 | $4749 | $5849* | $6649* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3949 | $4749 | $5849* | $6649* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3949 | $4749 | $5349* | $6149* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4199 | $4999 | $5599* | $6399* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4749 | $5549 | $6049* | $6849* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4649 | $5449 | $5949* | $6749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4299 | $5099 | $5649* | $6449* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4199 | $4999 | $5549* | $6349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3949 | $4749 | $5299* | $6099* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3849 | $4649 | $4899* | $5699* | |||
| 2027 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $1950 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
|
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
|||||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4949 | $5749 | $7099* | $7899* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4849 | $5649 | $6999* | $7799* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4499 | $5299 | $6549* | $7349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4299 | $5099 | $6349* | $7149* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4149 | $4949 | $6049* | $6849* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4149 | $4949 | $6049* | $6849* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4149 | $4949 | $5549* | $6349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4399 | $5199 | $5799* | $6599* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4949 | $5749 | $6249* | $7049* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4849 | $5649 | $6149* | $6949* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4499 | $5299 | $5849* | $6649* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4399 | $5199 | $5749* | $6549* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4149 | $4949 | $5499* | $6299* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4049 | $4849 | $5099* | $5899* | |||
| 2027 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2150 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
|
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
|||||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5149 | $5949 | $7299* | $8099* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5049 | $5849 | $7199* | $7999* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4699 | $5499 | $6749* | $7549* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4499 | $5299 | $6549* | $7349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4349 | $5149 | $6249* | $7049* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4349 | $5149 | $6249* | $7049* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4349 | $5149 | $5749* | $6549* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4599 | $5399 | $5999* | $6799* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5149 | $5949 | $6449* | $7249* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5049 | $5849 | $6349* | $7149* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4699 | $5499 | $6049* | $6849* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4599 | $5399 | $5949* | $6749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4349 | $5149 | $5699* | $6499* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4249 | $5049 | $5299* | $6099* | |||
| 2027 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2250 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
|
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
|||||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5349 | $6149 | $7499* | $8299* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5249 | $6049 | $7399* | $8199* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4899 | $5699 | $6949* | $7749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4699 | $5499 | $6749* | $7549* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4549 | $5349 | $6449* | $7249* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4549 | $5349 | $6449* | $7249* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4549 | $5349 | $5949* | $6749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4799 | $5599 | $6199* | $6999* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5349 | $6149 | $6649* | $7449* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5249 | $6049 | $6549* | $7349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4899 | $5699 | $6249* | $7049* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4799 | $5599 | $6149* | $6949* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4549 | $5349 | $5899* | $6699* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4449 | $5249 | $5499* | $6299* | |||
| 2027 Dates & Prices Single Supplement: $2750 | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
|
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
|||||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $6349 | $7149 | $8499* | $9299* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $6249 | $7049 | $8399* | $9199* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5899 | $6699 | $7949* | $8749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5699 | $6499 | $7749* | $8549* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5549 | $6349 | $7449* | $8249* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5549 | $6349 | $7449* | $8249* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5549 | $6349 | $6949* | $7749* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5799 | $6599 | $7199* | $7999* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $6349 | $7149 | $7649* | $8449* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $6249 | $7049 | $7549* | $8349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5899 | $6699 | $7249* | $8049* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5799 | $6599 | $7149* | $7949* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5549 | $6349 | $6899* | $7699* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $5449 | $6249 | $6499* | $7299* | |||
| 2027 Dates & Prices | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hotel | Dates | Embark | Tour Starts | Ship | Land Only | Air & Land | ||
|
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
Book By Aug 20 |
Book After Aug 20 |
|||||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4699 | $5499 | $6849* | $7649* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4599 | $5399 | $6749* | $7549* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4249 | $5049 | $6299* | $7099* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4049 | $4849 | $6099* | $6899* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3899 | $4699 | $5799* | $6599* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3899 | $4699 | $5799* | $6599* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3899 | $4699 | $5299* | $6099* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4149 | $4949 | $5549* | $6349* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4699 | $5499 | $5999* | $6799* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4599 | $5399 | $5899* | $6699* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4249 | $5049 | $5599* | $6399* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $4149 | $4949 | $5499* | $6299* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3899 | $4699 | $5249* | $6049* | |||
| Regensburg | Monarch Queen | $3799 | $4599 | $4849* | $5649* | |||
Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities (unless otherwise specified).
Additional Information:
Land/Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Monarch Queen: Passengers arriving to Munich on day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 2 PM.
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.
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?
River Cruise Package Includes
- Flights New York-Munich, Bucharest-New York
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices - 13 nights accommodations
- 7 nights outside cabin aboard the Deluxe Monarch Queen
- 1 night Timisoara
- 1 night Sibiu
- 2 nights Brasov
- 2 nights Bucharest
- River port charges of $190 per person
- Hotel & cruise porterage
- All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
- 31 meals: 13 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 12 dinners
- Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise (Days 2-8)
- Services of English-speaking tour manager (Days 9-15)
- Services of local guides
- Shore excursions per itinerary
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Tips for porters, wait staff & local guides on included services
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
Special Features
- Visit Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities
- Tour the historic Benedictine Melk Abbey, one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture
- Stop in Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube
- Take a city tour of Vienna and view the Hofburg Palace, Vienna Opera House and St. Stephen's Cathedral
- Explore the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center in Bratislava
- During the city tour of Budapest, view the impressive Parliament and Heroes Square
- Take a walking tour of Sibiu, with its historic Old Town
- Discover Sighisoara, one of Romania's most charming medieval towns
- Tour medieval Bran Castle, made famous by Bram Stoker's novel Dracula
- Visit the romantic Peles Castle, the former summer residence of Romania's first royal family
- Tour the gigantic Parliament Palace in Bucharest, the second-largest building in the world after the Pentagon
River Cruise Features & Amenities
- Wine and beer with lunches and dinners
- Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
- Complimentary basic Wi-Fi access in public areas
- Self-serve coffee and tea station
- Lounge serving premium spirits
- Fitness center and daily morning exercises
- Non-smoking ship interior
- Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English by licensed guides
†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates if pre/post accommodations are booked through Gate 1 Travel
Not Included:
Optional shore excursions gratuities. (unless otherwise specified).
Is This Trip Right for You?
| The number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary.
|
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.
This first class hotel is centrally located in Timisoara's historic Opera/Victory Square district, just steps from Victory Square.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is centrally located in Timisoara's historic Opera/Victory Square district, just steps from Victory Square.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is centrally located in Timisoara's historic Opera/Victory Square district, just steps from Victory Square.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is centrally located in Timisoara's historic Opera/Victory Square district, just steps from Victory Square.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is centrally located in Timisoara's historic Opera/Victory Square district, just steps from Victory Square.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is centrally located in Timisoara's historic Opera/Victory Square district, just steps from Victory Square.
Hotel Details
This first class hotel is centrally located in Timisoara's historic Opera/Victory Square district, just steps from Victory Square.
Hotel Details
- 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
Travel to Salzburg today, the birthplace of Mozart and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located at the northern foot of the Alps. Upon arrival, embark on a walking tour of Salzburg's most iconic sites, including Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. Enjoy free time to explore the Baroque Old Town, with the option to dine at one of the many traditional restaurants for lunch before returning to the ship.
Approximate tour duration is 9 hours. Expect 2 hours of walking as well as considerable time standing.
| Day #4 | 01 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2027 | $85.00 |
Enjoy an afternoon guided tour of the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. Visit the gorgeous apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured and aromatic gardens.
Approximate tour duration is 3 hours.
| Day #6 | 01 Jan 2027 - 31 Dec 2027 | $72.00 |
Experience a delightful evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music." Attend a recital 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 2027 - 31 Dec 2027 | $73.00 |
| Know Before You Go | |
| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. |
| Getting Ready to Go |
| Passports and Visas |
| It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.
|
| Traveling with Friends or Family? |
| If you are traveling with friends or family who are booked on another reservation, please make sure that we are aware. On occasion, we may operate more than one vehicle on your tour departure in which case we will ensure that guests will be assigned together. This is achieved by connecting your reservations before your departure. Once you arrive in your destination, it may not be possible to make assignment changes. To check that your reservations are linked, log into https://www.gate1travel.com/reservations with your email and password, select your reservation number, and check to see that your reservations are indicated as "Traveling With" at the top right side of the display. |
| Trip Preparation |
| A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over the counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks. |
| Travel Safety Advice: The safety of our guests is Gate 1’s #1 concern. Before making the decision to reserve your vacation, we want you to be aware of potential situations which may impact your holiday. While most of the time our programs run precisely according to plans, on rare occasion force majeure events including weather, transportation mechanical issues, or uninhabitable accommodation, civil unrest and even criminal or terrorist activities will present themselves unexpectedly and with little or no notice. Gate 1 will make the decision to cancel a tour only after receiving verifiable government issued information. We are otherwise obliged to comply with contractual airline and vendor agreements and carry out the tour until or unless we are advised otherwise. In the event of such an occurrence anytime after your date of departure, Gate 1 and the local destination ground staff, in coordination with government advisories, airlines, hotels, cruise ships and other vendors, will make decisions with regard to your safety first. We strongly recommend that tour participants review the destination country's specific information at https://travel.state.gov/content/passports/en/alertswarnings.html. |
| Travel Protection |
| Even the best-planned trips can be impacted by the unexpected. And that is why we recommend that you help protect yourself and your investment by purchasing Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. Travel Protection can help with medical coverage for illness or injury, trip cancellation and/or interruption, baggage loss, medical evacuation, and more. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection. The protection plan premium is non-refundable after a 10-day review period. In addition, you must be medically able to travel at the time the premium is paid. For a summary of the plan details on coverages, benefits, limitations and exclusions, please refer to the Description of Coverage by visiting www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) is a non-insurance feature that allows you to cancel up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan as well as within 21 days of the original booking date. Independent or escorted tour reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to the full cost of your trip, less the cost of initial deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. Sea or river cruise reservations will be eligible for a future travel credit equal to 50% of the cost of your trip, less the cost of initial trip deposit, airline-assessed fees, amendment fees, and insurance premium. All CFAR credits are valid for a period of two years from the original date of travel. CFAR Credits have no cash value and are not transferrable. Airline-assessed fees are generally $300 per person, but may be as much as fully non-refundable. Some non-refundable airline tickets may retain value, less airline-assessed fees. Your future air credit must be used to book with the same airline. Deadlines to rebook and complete travel vary by airline and may be as early as 12 months from when the tickets were originally issued (not the date of travel). For details, www.gate1travel.com/insurance/. This program does not apply to custom groups and Antarctica cruises. Residents of New York, Missouri & Minnesota may purchase this Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit separate from Travel Protection. Call to speak with a reservation agent for details. This Cancel for any Reason Wavier Benefit is not insurance and is provided by Gate 1 Travel. |
| Mobile Phones |
| Mobile networks differ from country to country. We recommend you check with your provider to see if your wireless plan will work in the destination(s) you are visiting. To avoid possible roaming charges, you may want to consider purchasing an international plan. With most major phone companies, for a modest fee, you will be able to use your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances just like you do at home. If you can access the internet while you travel, you can also take advantage of services such as WhatsApp or Skype. |
| Making Telephone Calls from One Country to Another |
| When dialing a number from one country to another, you should proceed as follows: dial your country's Exit Code (often indicated with a “+” sign), then the destination Country Code, then the Phone Number. For most countries, the exit code is 00. Exceptions include the USA and Canada (011), Hong Kong and Cambodia (001), Australia (0011), and Russia (8 Pause 10*). For Brazil, please consult with the local telephone company. If you are dialing from a mobile phone, you can enter a “+” instead of the international Exit Code (011, 001, 0011 or 00) by pressing and holding the 0 key. For most countries in Africa, Asia, Europe, South America and South Pacific, if you are calling from a local phone to a number within the same country, you should drop both the exit and country codes and then add a leading 0 (zero). Exceptions include Spain, Italy, Hungary and Malta (no additional zero needed to dial locally). Example: To dial the following number in Germany (as listed on your voucher): +(49) 0555-555 From USA or your US cell phone: 011-49-555-555 From another country in Europe: 00-49-555-555 From a German phone within Germany: 0555-555 |
| WiFi Access |
| WiFi is available in most airports, hotels, and cruise lines, as well as on some flights, trains, and buses. There may be a fee for access and service quality and speed may vary greatly especially while on moving vehicles. Availability on cruises is also dependent upon its location while sailing through multiple countries. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| River Cruises - Internet access is provided onboard Monarch ships, but quality may vary depending on the location and while sailing. Please note that WiFi can be extremely slow, unreliable, and sometimes nonexistent in developing countries. |
| Staying Healthy While Traveling |
| Please consult with your healthcare provider for up-to-date requirements. You may also check the Centers for Disease Control (www.cdc.gov) and/or the World Health Organization (http://www.who.int/en/) for their recommendations. Any required inoculations must be documented by clients' healthcare provider on a valid vaccination certificate, which must be carried as proof where necessary. Individuals with heart disease, chronic illness, physical handicap, advanced pregnancy, or mental illness should not participate in these rigorous travel programs. While traveling, illnesses can sometimes be unavoidable. If a traveler arrives feeling ill or becomes sick during the tour, they will be separated from the group and directed to either a local or virtual medical facility for diagnosis. This precaution is necessary to ensure the well-being of all travelers. The traveler may only rejoin the group after receiving written clearance from an accredited medical facility confirming they are fit to continue. All costs associated with medical treatment and related expenses such as additional hotel nights or transportation not included in the original itinerary will be the responsibility of the passenger. Travel protection plans will only consider coverage with service receipts provided by legally qualified health care facilities, and in accordance with policy terms. There are several easy steps you can take to stay healthy while traveling which may help prevent contracting an illness while away from home.
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| Notice on Aircraft Cabin Insecticide Treatment - Please note that some countries may require aircraft cabin insecticide treatment for in-bound foreign flights. A list of such countries is available at:
http://www.dot.gov/office-policy/aviation-policy/aircraft-disinsection-requirements. |
| Consideration for Tour Participants (Escorted Tours) |
For the benefit of all tour participants, we ask tour members to be considerate of their fellow travelers in the following ways:
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| Climate & Clothing |
| Austria - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Austria Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Germany - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Germany Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Slovakia - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Slovakia Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Romania - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). Romania Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| Hungary - Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). In summer, bring a hat and sunscreen. Hungary Average Temperatures: Fahrenheit | Celsius |
| River Cruises - Temperatures vary according to regional climate and season. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops). |
| About Drones |
| Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) or "drone" technology has quickly become affordable and is increasingly popular with recreational users. While some countries have clear, established drone laws, others do not, or existing regulations are undergoing review and change. Travelers who wish to bring a drone on their trip are responsible to research and abide by the laws and regulations of the countries they are visiting, as well as to check with their airline(s) regarding their rules for transporting drones. Please note that tours are unable to extend the length of scheduled visits and stops to accommodate use of drones. |
| Book & Film Recommendations |
| Many of our guests enjoy reading about their destination - either in advance of their trip or while traveling - as a way of adding context to their visit. Whether reading a traditional guide book, learning about the history and culture, or simply enjoying a fictional novel set in the destination, a good book can add greatly to your experience. Similarly, a good movie set in your destination helps set the mood before you travel. We asked our Tour Managers and staff to recommend books and films which past guests may have enjoyed. The following does not constitute an endorsement of any authors, books or films listed, it is merely a collection of guests' recommendations. |
| EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES: Books Danube by Claudio Magris Between the Woods and the Water by Patrick Leigh Fermor Ballad of the Whiskey Robber by Julian Rubinstein Invisible Bridge by Julie Orringer The Case Worker by Gyorgy Konrád Fatelessness by Imre Kertesz Blue River Black Sea by Andrew Eames EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISES: Films The Sound of Music (1965) Amadeus (1984) |
| Preparing for Your Trip |
| Seat Assignments |
| As a courtesy service, complimentary airline seat assignments are requested on your behalf and, when available, are displayed in order of Passenger #1, #2 and so on. Assignments reflect the best available seats at the time of booking. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only; in which case the display shows “N/A”. Seats are subject to change by your airline(s) including, for example, when there is a schedule change or equipment change after your initial booking; this may cause seat assignments to be changed or even cancelled. Some airlines offer preferred seating for an additional fee; these seats may only be purchased directly from the airline. You will need your family name and the 6-digit airline “Record Locator” which is displayed with the flight details on your reservation. In the event that you change seat assignments directly with your airline, changes will not be reflected on your invoice or documents. At the time that Gate 1 travel documents are issued, the currently assigned seats will be listed based on the assignments stored in your airline reservation at that time. Should you have questions regarding your assignments, please write to us at www.gate1travel.com/contactus. |
| Luggage & Packing |
| Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62"), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23kg). Smart Bags with a USB charging port, GPS tracking device and other high-tech features are prohibited as checked or carry-on baggage unless the bag is made with removable batteries and the batteries are removed and stored separately. Many airlines charge for checked bags including flights which begin and end within the USA. The most inexpensive airfare options commonly known as Basic Economy airfares do not include any checked bags nor seat assignments before the day of departure. However, for some airlines, other airfare categories also do not include checked baggage. This will be clearly displayed in our airfare selection and on your invoice. Where available, we highly recommend selecting airfares which include at least 1 piece of checked baggage. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for checked bag fees, excess luggage or weight charges levied by an airline. Checked baggage allowances displayed on reservation details and invoices reflect the applicable allowance at the time of booking but are subject to change by your airline(s). For your airline's requirements and fees, visit www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. For important baggage information, visit www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx. Avoid placing valuables in your checked luggage. Federal law forbids the carriage of hazardous materials aboard the aircraft in your luggage, your carry-on or on your person. A violation can result in five years' imprisonment and penalties of $250,000 or more (49 U.S.C. 5124). Hazardous materials include explosives, compressed gases, flammable liquids and solids, oxidizers, poisons, corrosives and radioactive materials. Examples: Paints, lighter fluid, fireworks, tear gases, oxygen bottles, and radio-pharmaceuticals. There are special exceptions for small quantities (up to 70 ounces total) of medicinal and toilet articles carried in your luggage and certain smoking materials carried on your person. Check the Transportation and Safety Administration (TSA) website www.tsa.gov to find out the current list of acceptable items you may bring on a plane before packing. We recommend that you use brightly colored luggage tags, straps or other identifiers to help you locate your luggage upon arrival or to describe it in the event that it is lost. |
| Intra-Flights |
| All intra-flights included in your package are booked in Economy Class. Checked bags are typically limited to a total dimension of 62 inches (157 cm) by adding length + width + height (example: 26"+26"+10" = 62" / 66cm+66cm+25cm = 157cm), and a maximum weight of 50 lbs (23 kg). Exceptions are listed below and may differ from international flight luggage limits. More detailed baggage restrictions for your airline can be found at www.gate1travel.com/baggagefees.aspx. |
| Day of Departure |
| Flight Services |
| What to do if You Need Assistance |
Whether you purchased your airfare from Gate 1 Travel or from the airline directly, please bear in mind that Gate 1 Travel does not own nor operate the airline(s), nor the airport facilities where they operate. At times, flying can be a frustrating experience, especially when things do not go exactly as planned, and airline explanations can be confusing or even misleading. Should you face a problem, remain calm and seek assistance either from the airline directly or from Gate 1. Please be aware that in most cases, on the day of your flight(s), airlines pass responsibility for your reservation to their staff at the airport and it is not always possible for Gate 1 Travel to intervene on your behalf, either through our reservations system or directly with your airline. |
| Arrival & Departure |
| Arrival Procedures |
| Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities if necessary and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after collecting your luggage or passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher. If you are delayed due to lost luggage, phone the number on the voucher or have a companion exit the Customs Area to advise the transfer representative. Be wary of airport scammers who offer unwanted assistance. If you are arriving without a pre-arranged transfer, we strongly recommend going to the Tourist Information Desk to ask for a licensed taxi or transfer service. You may be asked to pay for the transfer at the desk prior to the trip, this will ensure you are not charged extra during the trip. |
| River Cruise Docking Locations in Budapest - Please note that the final docking location is determined by the Budapest Port Authorities and is subject to change, in which case, we will make every attempt to contact you with the new details. The exact docking position is not known prior to arrival. The name of the ship will be clearly visible on the side of the vessel or in cases when the ship is double-berthed, look out for Gate 1's shoreside flags. In the event you can not locate the ship please call the number of your ship below. |
| River Cruise Docking Locations in Regensburg - Please note that the exact dock is not known prior to arrival as this is strictly controlled by the river authorities. The name of the ship should be clearly visible on the side of the vessel with a large Gate 1 flag on the mast of the vessel and on shore. |
| Monarch Queen - If you do not have a Gate 1 Transfer to the ship, we recommend you telephone the ship reception on your embarkation day to receive the most recent & precise docking information. * Ship reception/Hotel Manager: +49 172 2597194 * Local office emergency number: +421 907 707 947 |
Monarch Queen 2026 Docking Locations in Budapest
Please find detailed descriptions of the river cruise ship docking locations in Budapest below. |
Monarch Queen 2026 Docking Locations in Regensburg
Please find detailed descriptions of the river cruise ship docking locations in Regensburg below. |
| Budapest River Cruise Docking Mahart Pest Port The dock is located on the Pest side of the city between the Elizabeth Bridge and the Lagymanyosi Bridge (also known as the Rakoczi Bridge). The distance between the bridges is approximately 2.5 miles. Mahart Buda Port, Angelo Rotta rkp, Budapest, 1027 The dock is located on the Buda side of the city between the Margaret and the Chain Bridge at Bem Square. Google Map: https://www.google.com/maps?q=47.512588,19.040172 Infopark, Magyar Tudosok Korutja - Henryk Slawik rakpart, Budapest 1117 The dock is located on the Buda side of the city between the Rakoczi and the Petofi Bridge at Infopark - Henryk Slawik rakpart. Google Map: https://www.google.com/maps?q=47.471898,19.064734 |
| Regensburg River Cruise Docking Passau, Altstadt Nr. 13 Altstadt Nr. 13 is located at Lower Danube Bank, 94032 Passau, Germany. Passau, Altstadt Nr. 13 Vilshofen an der Donau Vilshofen 1 - Regensburger Straße, 94474 Vilshofen an der Donau, Germany The dock is located approximately 1 mile from Vilshofen an der Donau train station, Vilshofen an der Donau The exact dock is not known prior to arrival as this is strictly controlled by the river authorities. The name of the ship should be clearly visible on the side of the vessel with a large Gate 1 flag on the mast of the vessel and on shore. Passau Racklau 2 Port Passau Racklau 2 - Racklau 3A, 94036 Passau, Germany The dock is located approximately 2 miles from Passau center and train station, Passau Racklau 2 Port Donaulände Port The dock is located near the city center on Marc Aurel Ufer starting from the Eiserne Bridge and past the Nibelungen Bridge. The distance between the bridges is approximately 1 mile. The exact dock is not known prior to arrival as this is strictly controlled by the river authorities. The name of the ship should be clearly visible on the side of the vessel with a large Gate 1 flag on the mast of the vessel and on shore. Walhalla KDE Port Sulzbach a.d. Donau 93093 Donaustauf, Germany Walhalla KDE Port The exact dock is not known prior to arrival as this is strictly controlled by the river authorities. The name of the ship should be clearly visible on the side of the vessel with a large Gate 1 flag on the mast of the vessel and on shore. Bayernhafen Port Donaulände 20, 93055 Regensburg Bayernhafen Port The exact dock is not known prior to arrival as this is strictly controlled by the river authorities. The name of the ship should be clearly visible on the side of the vessel with a large Gate 1 flag on the mast of the vessel and on shore. Straubing RSR Uferstraße, 94315 Straubing, Germany Straubing Port The dock is located approximately 1 mile from Straubing train station. Deggendorf Dieter - Görlitz - Platz, 94469 Deggendorf, Germany Deggendorf Port The dock is located approximately 4 miles from Deggendorf train station. |
| What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed |
| Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, the better we can respond. Please refer to the Emergency Assistance instructions on this same document. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon you return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services. |
| Departure Procedures |
| If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally. |
| Transfers |
| Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date. The cost of a transfer is more expensive than hiring a taxi, as a Gate 1 transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or 'dead-leg'. Often the places of call (airports, seaports, hotels) demand entrance and parking fees, where drivers may have to wait for up to an hour. Passengers comfortable hiring a taxi on their own and do not require assistance will save money. |
| About Your Munich to Regensburg Transfer - During the booking process, direction was provided to select flights that arrive no later than 2:00 pm into Munich airport in order to provide adequate time for the transfer to Regensburg which is scheduled to depart at approximately 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. As a result, depending upon the flights reserved and/or if you arrive earlier in the day, you may experience a wait at Munich airport before your transfer departs. The choice of Munich for the flight arrival city for this program was made taking into consideration a number of factors. Most importantly, there are a much greater number of flight services to Munich than to airports closer to Regensburg. As a result, prices are typically much lower and seats are normally available in the lowest price categories. Therefore, while a longer arrival transfer and potential wait at the airport may not be ideal, the cost savings of hundreds of dollars per person are weighed against the potential inconvenience. Our goal is to provide quality services at an affordable price and our itinerary selection in this instance seeks to balance those two factors in the most appropriate manner. How to find the Gate 1 Meeting Point at Munich Airport There are two terminals at Munich Airport. Terminal 1 (Delta, British, KLM, Air France, Air Berlin) and Terminal 2 (Lufthansa, United, American, Air Canada, Singapore). Located between the two terminals is the Central Area (Zentral Bereich) featuring shops, restaurants, banks and an Information desk. In this area also are the car rental desks and entrance to the local subway system. Gate 1's representative holding a Gate 1 sign will be located at McDonalds which is in the Central Area close to the airport's Meeting Point. Terminal 1 is directly connected to this area. From Terminal 2, walk from the Arrival Hall across an outdoor atrium to enter the Central Area building, then continue straight past the car rental counters, until you see McDonalds directly in front of you. The transfer will depart from this location at approximately 9:00 am, 11:00 am, 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm. Regensburg port is approximately a 2 hour drive from the Munich airport. Embarkation will begin at 2:00 pm until 6:00 pm. |
| About Your Accommodations |
| Hotels |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard twin-bedded (two single beds) rooms with private facilities. Special requests such as bed types, smoking preference and connecting rooms are subject to availability. Room selection in all cases, unless otherwise reserved, is strictly at the discretion of the hotel's management on a run-of-house basis. Triple rooms consist of standard twin beds or one double bed plus a sofa/folding bed or cot for third person except in the U.S. and Canada, where triple rooms often consist of two double/queen beds for three persons; where available, a fee may be charged by the hotel for the addition of a cot/rollaway. The number of persons accommodated does not dictate the room size. While air conditioning is available in most hotels, we recommend checking the room amenities listed under the "Featured Hotels" tab of your package to confirm. Please note that many international hotels were built before central air conditioning was introduced. In those that do offer air conditioning, usage may be restricted, often due to government regulations aimed at promoting energy conservation. It's typical for air conditioning to be used only during the summer months, to follow a set schedule (sometimes turned off at night), and to operate at lower settings than what many Americans are accustomed to. Some lodges and accommodations in remote regions may not have all of the amenities, such as hairdryer, alarm clock and room service, that you might find in a larger hotel located in a city center. |
| Hotel Check-in/ Check-out |
| Hotel check-in time is generally not before 4:00 p.m. and check-out time is prior to noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later. |
| River Cruises |
| Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each cruise ship based on overall quality, itinerary, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All Monarch Queen cabins are standard rooms with private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. All cabins have two twin beds that can be pushed together or separated. While at port, the vessel may be docked adjacent to another ship which may obstruct window views. We recommend you close the cabin curtains before turning in at night for privacy. We reserve the right to make ship substitutions with those of equal standard. |
| At Your Destination |
| Eco & Sustainable Tourism |
| We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs. |
| Staggered Arrival & Departure |
| Many tours are offered with multiple duration options, allowing travelers to choose one or more destinations in a single trip. As a result, the number of participants on your tour may vary, as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary. |
| About Your Sightseeing |
| To ensure a pleasant and fair experience for passengers on our escorted tours, there is a mandatory seat rotation policy on our motor coaches which will be organized by your Tour Manager. On river cruises, color-coded group splits may be used for shoreside included and Optional tours. Some buses are equipped with toilet facility, however they are strictly intended for emergency use only and often require the vehicle to stop for safety reasons before use. When travel dates coincide with religious holidays and national celebrations, some monuments and sites may be closed, sometimes without prior notice. On these occasions, escorted touring itineraries may be amended to reflect these closures. Occasionally, during holidays and certain periods, and/or due to other unforeseen circumstances including weather conditions, there may be last-minute changes, sometimes after arrival, which may affect the sequence of the tour and locations visited. National monuments and tourist sites regularly undergo renovations, which can obscure the monument's view. No tour will be canceled due to renovations, however Gate 1 will decide based on the conditions whether to amend an itinerary. To respect the privacy of all tour participants, your tour manager will not organize a group photo or collect passenger email addresses for a group list. |
| Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) |
| Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for check-in. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents. |
| Purchasing Tours Locally |
| On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional |
| Independent Activities - Gate 1 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 and with due consideration. Gate 1 is not responsible for any activities not expressly included in its programs. Caution should be exercised when selecting certain activities that may require physical strength, coordination or exertion. Particular care should be taken when considering animal rides, such as on camels, mules or horses |
| Water Level |
| A rise or fall in the river water level, or other factors which may impact safe navigation, can prevent the ship from passing under bridges and/or moving further along the river. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach. If this becomes necessary, Gate 1 Travel will endeavor to provide equal or similar services, however no cruise will be canceled and no monetary compensation will be made for those changes. A fluctuation in water level can change in a matter of hours and may occur at any time of the year. In this case, the situation will be closely monitored by captain and crew to ensure services are delivered with as few substitutions as possible. If you have planned independent travel prior to the cruise it is advisable to leave local contact information with Gate 1 Travel before departing. Should an embarkation point be changed, Gate 1 Travel will attempt to contact passengers by phone or email. |
| Austria - The Euro is the currency of Austria. |
| Germany - The Euro is the currency of Germany. |
| Slovakia - The Euro is the currency of Slovakia. |
| Romania - The Romanian Leu is the currency of Romania. |
| Hungary - The Hungarian Forint is the currency of Hungary. |
| European River Cruises - The Euro is the currency used for purchases on board the ship, except for optional excursions which may be paid for in USD. Please note that while calling at port, other currencies may be used depending on the country being visited. Money-changing services (to Euro) will be available on board. Ship Account and Payment: There is a cashless system on board. All on board expenditures (in the bar, restaurant, shop, and spa) are added to the ship's account. Closing invoices will be presented to the passengers for settlement. Payment can be made by cash in Euro or by credit card (VISA, MasterCard, American Express). Payment made by credit card may be subject to an international credit card transaction fee. Please note we cannot accept USD as a form of cash payment. Passenger's are not eligible for a Value Added Tax (VAT) refund for purchases made on board the ship. |
| European River Cruises - On board expenditures are processed through a banking center in Cyprus. Passengers wishing to settle their on board account by credit card should advise their credit card provider of potential charges from Cyprus in addition to the countries that will be visited on your itinerary. |
| Shopping |
| Most people enjoy bringing home at least one souvenir from the countries they visit. However, some find any amount of shopping to be too much while others never find enough opportunities. We have built into our Escorted itineraries a few shopping stops at recommended spots. These stops are designed to enhance your experience by providing an opportunity to see first-hand quality locally crafted merchandise which you may not be able to find on your own. Shops are checked to ensure the quality and authenticity of the products they offer, and we limit guides from visiting other locations. In some cases, we plan these stops to provide an opportunity to use clean bathrooms and to stretch your legs. All shops want your satisfaction, and therefore in case of any misunderstanding they ask that you kindly submit your claim to us within one week of the item's receipt. Claims submitted later will be subject to each store's policies. While shopping independently, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is! About Tax-Free Shopping Tax-Free Shopping allows shoppers to reclaim the VAT (Value-Added Tax) or GST (Goods and Services Tax) they have paid on their purchases in some foreign countries in accordance with restrictions and procedures as dictated by each country. Refund eligibility varies by country, but may require presenting a scanned copy of your passport at the time of purchase, a minimum amount spent, or providing original store receipts. For more details, check the respective country's online website, with the shop salesperson, with your tour manager or at www.globalblue.com for specific country regulations and airport operation hours. Please keep in mind that you must apply for VAT refund in the airport of the country the items were purchased and allow enough time prior to your flight for the application. U.S. Customs & Shipping Charges You may carry items with a fair retail value totaling $800 into the U.S. Taxes may be applied to the next $1,000 worth of merchandise. U.S. Customs determines the value of your items, often honoring a genuine sales receipt. Items which are shipped home are always subject to duty when received in the U.S. (in addition to shipping charges). Some shops may offer to include shipping and duties in the price but this typically means shipping only to the customs facility closest to you and payment only of the export duties; you would still need to collect the item and pay U.S. import duties. Please be aware that it is illegal to import products made from endangered animal species. U.S. Customs & Border Protection will seize these items, as well as most furs, coral, tortoise shell, reptile skins, feathers, plants, and items made from animal skins. |
| Austria - Austria is renowned for its high quality winter sports equipment, wine, as well as an assortment of top-of-the-line, handcrafted items, including crystal, wood carvings, textiles, and fine leather. If you are traveling during the Christmas season, the Christmas markets are a must-see, not only for the goods but also for the hot mulled wine and unforgettable atmosphere. |
| Germany - In addition to large department stores featuring a wide range of goods, Germany has many specialized shops that feature high quality items such as optical instruments, knives, glassware, china, handcrafted toys, and antique books and maps, among many others. |
| Slovakia - Items of particular interest include Bohemian crystal, fine wines and liquors, dolls in folk costume, embroidery, hand-cast metal works, ceramic figurines, and carved wooden toys. High quality clothing and antiques are also very popular. Shops are usually open weekdays from 9:00 a.m. until 6:00 p.m. with shorter hours on Saturdays. Malls in larger cities are open all week. |
| Romania - Items of interest include intricately woven carpets, regional wines, ornately painted eggs and tiles, Italian clothes and shoes at discount prices, glass pieces, and porcelain wares. Of course there is also plenty of Dracula kitsch along with more unusual souvenirs like wild boar skins. |
| Hungary - Hungary is renowned for its food and beverage products, especially fine red paprika, brandies, and Unicum liqueur. Additionally, traditional items such as ceramics, embroidery work, painted eggs, crystal ware, and costumed dolls are highly popular. |
| Your Safety is Very Important |
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Prior to your trip, if you are traveling overseas, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov, specifically the section which addresses International Travel. You should read the tips for foreign travel and travel warnings for the country or countries that you plan to visit. It is also important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while on your trip. Here are several tips which, if followed, will save much potential hardship:
If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities. |
| European River Cruises - You are on a ship with a high safety standard and reliable crew. In case of emergency, we ask you to follow the instructions of your crew. Please take further information concerning safety from the notice on your cabin door. Life jackets will be stored in your stateroom or in containers on the sun deck, marked clearly. When leaving the ship, kindly pick up your boarding pass from the reception desk and promptly return it upon arrival back to the ship. This procedure helps ensure your security by allowing the crew to immediately determine if all passengers are on board before continuing the cruise. While in port, please keep your cabin door locked. |
| Tourist Street Scams |
Pickpockets and thieves can destroy an otherwise wonderful holiday. Be mindful of these precautions to help avoid being scammed or robbed:
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| Local Emergency Phone Numbers |
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Hungary
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| Languages |
| Austria - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Germany - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Slovakia - Slovak is the local language. German and limited English are generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Romania - Romanian is the local language. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Hungary - Hungarian is the local language. Limited English is generally spoken in tourist areas. |
| Electricity |
| Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances. |
| Austria - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Germany - The voltage used is 230 volts. |
| Slovakia - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Romania - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Hungary - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Monarch Queen - The voltage used is 220 volts. |
| Code of Conduct |
| Austria - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants. |
| Germany - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants. |
| Slovakia - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. Conservative casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. |
| Romania - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. When meeting someone for the first time, formal address should be used. Conservative casual dress is appropriate and normal courtesies should be observed. Please be aware that most restaurants do not have non-smoking sections. |
| Hungary - Shaking hands is a standard form of greeting. Normal courtesies should be observed and when addressing a newly met acquaintance, both first and last name should be used. Conservative casual dress is appropriate. Smoking is prohibited on public transport and in public buildings. |
| Meals & Dietary Requests |
| Included meals are based on the restaurant's set menu or buffet and usually represent local cuisine. Vegetarian meals are available in most locations, while vegan, protein-rich or gluten-free menus are rare. Special dietary requests, which must be selected in the passenger details section of your reservation, cannot be guaranteed. We are unable to provide meals in accordance with strict religious requirements, such as Kosher or Halal, nor can we accommodate specifically salt-free, high-protein or low-carb meals.
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| Holidays |
| On public holidays, there may be reduced public transportation, as well as limited hours or closures of attractions, shops and restaurants. |
| Holidays - Austria |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 14: Ascension Day May 24: Whit Sunday May 25: Whit Monday Jun 4: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 26: National Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 6: Ascension Day May 16: Whit Sunday May 27: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Feast of the Assumption Oct 10: Plebiscite Day Oct 26: National Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 15: St. Leopold's Day Dec 8: Immaculate Conception Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Germany |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 14: Ascension Day May 24: Whit Sunday May 25: Whit Monday Jun 4: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 18: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: May Day May 6: Ascension Day May 16: Whit Sunday May 17: Whit Monday May 27: Corpus Christi Aug 15: Assumption Day Oct 3: Day of German Unity Oct 31: Reformation Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 17: Repentence Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Slovakia |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 1: Day of the Establishment of the Republic Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 8: Day of Victory over Fascism Jul 5: Saints Cyril & Methodius Day Aug 29: Slovak National Uprising Anniversary Sep 1: Day of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic Sep 15: Day of Our Lady of Sorrows Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 17: Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 1: Day of the Establishment of the Republic Jan 6: Feast of the Epiphany Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 8: Day of Victory over Fascism Jul 5: Saints Cyril & Methodius Day Aug 29: Slovak National Uprising Anniversary Sep 1: Day of the Constitution of the Slovak Republic Sep 15: Day of Our Lady of Sorrows Nov 1: All Saints' Day Nov 17: Struggle for Freedom and Democracy Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: St. Stephen's Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Holidays - Romania |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Jan 2: New Year's Holiday Jan 24: Unification Day Apr 10: Orthodox Good Friday Apr 12: Orthodox Easter Sunday Apr 13: Orthodox Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day May 31: Orthodox Pentecost Jun 1: Orthodox Pentecost Monday Jun 1: Children's Day Aug 15: St. Mary's Day Nov 30: St. Andrew's Day Dec 1: National Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Second Day of Christmas Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day (2 day celebration) Jan 24: Unification Day Apr 30: Orthodox Good Friday May 2: Orthodox Easter Sunday May 3: Orthodox Easter Monday May 1: Labor Day Jun 1: Children's Day Jun 20: Orthodox Pentecost Jun 21 Orthodox Pentecost Monday Aug 15: St. Mary's Day Nov 30: St. Andrew's Day Dec 1: National Day Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Second Day of Christmas |
| Holidays - Hungary |
Holidays 2026 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 15: National Day (1848 Revolution Memorial Day) Apr 3: Good Friday Apr 5: Easter Apr 6: Easter Monday May 1: Labour Day May 24: Whit Sunday May 25: Whit Monday Aug 20: Hungary National Day Oct 23: 1956 Revolution Memorial Day Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve Holidays 2027 Jan 1: New Year's Day Mar 15: National Day (1848 Revolution Memorial Day) Mar 26: Good Friday Mar 28: Easter Mar 29: Easter Monday May 1: Labour Day May 16: Whit Sunday May 17: Whit Monday Aug 20: State Foundation Day Oct 23: National Day (1956 Revolution Memorial Day) Nov 1: All Saints' Day Dec 24: Christmas Eve Dec 25: Christmas Day Dec 26: Boxing Day Dec 31: New Year's Eve |
| Disabled Facilities - European River Cruises |
| Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. The Monarch Queen is equipped with elevator access between decks, however passengers will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes while touring. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information. |
| Embarkation |
| Embarkation will begin at 2 pm unless otherwise noted in your itinerary. Check your itinerary carefully for the port of embarkation and disembarkation. In the event that you arrive independently to the port of embarkation, note the location carefully. Please ensure that you are always on board before the ship's scheduled time of departure. For same day directions, please contact the Cruise Director at the number provided on your cruise voucher. Early arrivals may drop their luggage. Upon embarkation all passengers will be required to hand over their passport to the Reception Desk for the duration of the cruise. The staff are required to provide these to the appropriate authorities as the ship sails through each country. These will be stored in a secure area and returned at the end of the cruise. |
| Disembarkation |
| You will receive all relevant information concerning disembarkation in detail by your cruise director on the afternoon of your last day onboard. Passengers who have purchased a transfer will be required to place their luggage outside of their cabin a few hours prior to their scheduled time of departure. Details will be advised locally. All passengers and luggage must be off board the ship at the final disembarkation time noted in your itinerary. |
| On Your Cruise - European River Cruises |
| Attire: River cruise dress code is always casual. Modest attire (no bathing suits) is requested in the dining room at all meals. Remember to pack comfortable walking shoes and an umbrella. Language: The official language on board is English, although other languages may be spoken. All announcements and tours will be performed in English. Meals and Dietary Restrictions: The dining room offers open seating for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you have any special dietary needs, please see your Maître d'hôtel, who will be at your disposal for special needs. Passengers with specific dietary requirements must notify Gate 1 Travel at least 20 days prior to departure. Please note that while we strive to accommodate dietary requirements, fulfilling requests for specific cuisines or regional dishes may not be possible. However, we are pleased to assist within the limits of the products available on board. Our menu reflects the region visited during the tour, with inspiration drawn from both U.S. and international cuisine. A vegetarian option is always available on the menu. Smoking: Smoking is only allowed in designated areas on the sundeck. Please do not throw cigarettes overboard. Amenities: A hairdryer is supplied to all cabins. Laundry service is available on board for an additional charge, however the ship is not equipped to care for dry cleaning. Charges are displayed on board. Valuables can be deposited in the cabin safe. Fitness Center: The fitness center is equipped with one treadmill, one stationary bicycle and yoga mats. Medical Services: Ship's crew may be able to provide basic first-aid, however ships do not carry a doctor or nurse onboard. Should professional medical attention be required, local services will be contacted upon the passenger's request. Excursions: During your journey you will have the opportunity to take part in a variety of shore excursions. If you have not pre-booked the excursions, there will be an opportunity to do so on board with your Cruise Director. These excursions can be paid for in cash (USD), or charged to your credit card. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. https://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional Walking: River Cruise tours dock at inland towns and excursions may include a fair amount of walking on uneven or cobblestone streets. The Monarch Queen is equipped with elevator access between decks. Many ports have limited ramps. You may also experience "double-docking." In some ports, where there are limited docks available for the number of visiting ships, you may find your ship docked adjacent to another and may have to walk across one or more other river cruise ships before reaching the dock area. Children: The vessels do not maintain facilities or services for children aboard the cruise. We regret that we cannot accommodate children under 16 years of age. Telephone: All cabins are equipped with direct dialing for an additional fee. If you need to be contacted while on board the ship, please provide the emergency numbers outlined in your documents to family and/or friends. It is possible that the emergency numbers are out of the telephone network at the time of dialing. If this is the case, a message will be provided by the telephone company in German. It is advisable to hang-up and dial a short time later. Internet Onboard: The Monarch ships offer complimentary internet access onboard which is accessible in both public areas and cabins. This is basic internet and is based on regional satellite for river cruise ships. Connection quality varies and, at times, may be slow. Normally, you should be able to browse the internet, check your email, access international publications, and view social media accounts on your personal device(s) during your sailing. However, you will be unable to download movies or video, send videos or access streaming services. At the beginning of your sailing, you will be provided with an access code which you may use on any of your devices. Please note the possibility of potential interruptions in satellite signals based on terrain and weather. In addition, populated ports where many ships are utilizing the same satellite signal may cause slower online connections than you are accustomed to at home. Prior to departure, we recommend you purchase an international plan with your phone provider which will typically provide similar coverage to your domestic plan's talk, text, and data allowances. Mail: Any mail with postage can be handed in at the reception. It will be posted at the next port of call. |
| Suggested Tipping |
| Gratuities |
| Tipping is always at your personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or in the U.S. dollar equivalent where accepted, and we recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping. Please note that in many destinations, tipping is considered a customary part of local compensation. While you may occasionally be approached for additional tips, you should never feel pressured to do so. If at any time you feel uncomfortable or uncertain about a situation, please speak with your Tour Manager or contact our office using the phone numbers provided in your travel documents. |
| Suggested Tipping: European River Cruises |
River Cruise Crew: US $16 per person per day Cruise Director: US $4 per person per day Activity Host: US $4 per person per day Driver: US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Crew gratuities will be shared by all crew members and may be paid via the on board ship account or dropped in the designated box at reception. Gratuities for the Gate 1 Cruise Director and Activity Host should be paid in cash and given to the person directly. Pre- or Post-Cruise Land Tour Tour Manager: US $10 per person per day Driver: US $5 per person per day, US $3 per half day Local City Host (Acts as Tour Manager): US $4 per person per day Note: Tips for local guides, hotel porters, wait staff, and any other services listed in your itinerary are included, unless otherwise specified above. Drivers provide chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage, and on some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers. |
| Austria - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Germany - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Slovakia - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Romania - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge. |
| Hungary - For activities on your own, gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. |
What a great trip! Janine was one of the best tour managers I have ever had with Gate 1--knowledgeable, sincere, humorous, enthusiastic, organized--and the list goes on. Every day she would share a special drink or goodie that brought the region to life in a more personal way, making the trip truly special, as well as treating us to wine with our meals. She and our driver, Roman, were a great team, taking wonderful care of all of us. Clone that tour manager! :)
Annette R.
My trip was amazing! I really enjoyed the Christmas markets and the local tours. The time on the ship was also wonderful. The crews on your ships are really the best! So friendly, professional, helpful...we miss them when we get home! The food is also amazing. Thank you for another wonderful Gate1 trip!!
Christine S.
Thank you for checking in and for putting together such a memorable experience. Our trip was truly wonderful from start to finish. The planning, coordination, and attention to detail made the journey feel seamless, allowing us to fully enjoy each destination without stress. The Christmas markets, river cruise experience, and overall itinerary exceeded our expectations, and it was clear how thoughtfully everything was arranged. We're very grateful for the experience and wouldn't hesitate to travel with Gate1 again or recommend your services to others. Thank you for helping make this trip so special.
Michelle S.
Absolutely wonderful! Gate 1 will be my go-to travel company from now on! The staff, service, food, activities, were all exceptional. Thank you so much for exceeding my expectations. See you again soon!
Martha L.
Tour manager Siobhan was amazing. She personalized everyone's trip by connecting with each individual and making comments/recommendations relevant to their situations. Her knowledge and local insight were so appreciated by everyone in the group. Her special added touches each day were such treats each day! Her preparation and up-front communication left no guessing for the group. She was able to pivot seamlessly if required and always made sure everyone was comfortable and satisfied. We would recommend Siobhan to anyone who has an opportunity to cross her path in the future.
Lauren L.
My husband and I recently returned from one of your tours, and we wanted to express our sincere gratitude for the wonderful experience. Our guide, Dennis, distinguished himself as one of the finest we have ever encountered during our many years of international travel. Dennis was warm, welcoming, and consistently professional. His deep knowledge, punctuality, and attentive accommodations elevated the trip to a truly memorable level. We appreciated his friendly manner, his ability to share rich cultural and historical context, and his flexibility with the group's needs. As business owners ourselves, we recognize and value what it takes to maintain a high standard of service. Dennis is clearly a standout asset to your team - someone who reflects the very best of Gate 1. Thanks to Dennis's exemplary guidance, we will absolutely be choosing Gate 1 for our future travels. Please pass along our sincere thanks and commendation to him.
Jenicha W.
Amy at Front Desk was amazing! So helpful, friendly and just joyful. Great 1st impression for all guests boarding ship. Activity Director and Cruise Director were great! Fun onboard activities and additional entertainment from servers was a bonus Everyone was on point! Can't wait to cruise again on Gate 1
Cheryl K.
We had a fabulous time on our trip through Gate1 Travel to Germany & Austria for the Christmas Markets. It is hard to say what part of the trip was our favorite as each destination was great and had such unique and special things! Our tour Manager Michael was phenomenal - so knowledgeable and kind and funny as well. He made us feel so comfortable and was always willing to help in any way. He was natural at making us feel like our group of 41 people was family and friends! He is such an asset to your organization! All our hotels were nice and clean and comfortable! I would not change a thing about our trip. We will be repeat customers
Janis L.
Our trip was fantastic! George was a really good leader for the group. He is very organized, knowledgeable of all the cities we visited, willing to do more than was expected. The hotel in Vienna was very nice, centrally located and food was delicious. Thank you for the upgrade on the river cruise. We were surprised and very appreciative. We love traveling with Gate 1. The Ship was so nice, clean, staff were so nice and helpful. Food was delicious I cannot wait to travel with Gate 1 again.
Nancy K.
We have traveled with Gate1 many times, but this was our first river cruise experience with Gate1. We have sailed with Viking and AMA previously. I have to say I really enjoyed the Gate1 experience. The boat was nice, Martin our cruise director was very good and quite pleasant and always organized and fun to be around. The activity host, Danny was SO much fun - just a joy to be around and kept everyone involved. The food was great for all meals - everything was delicious. I liked the way the excursions were run - you just pick a color and get on that designated bus. No fuss or thought! The crew was outstanding! EVERYONE was fun and pleasant to be around and no "stuffiness". Great trip and will definitely do another river cruise with Gate1!
Janice D.
We had a wonderful trip. Our travel escort, Patrick, was wonderful. He was always professional, friendly, knowledgeable, helpful and made the trip extra special. Our driver, Pavel, was courteous, professional and did a great job keeping us safe traveling
Linda G.
We appreciate your Customer Service booking of our flights. We gave Courtney the days we wanted to fly and our wanting to have a minimum 2-hour layover at each airport. She quickly found flights for us and booked them within our cruise package. That was very helpful. The dining room and lounge wait staff were exceptionally helpful. The Activity Director Nick brought us passengers together with activities from early morning to late at night. He is very knowledgeable about music. Nick was a good catalyst. The Cruise Director Dijan worked well in each of the five countries we visited from Romania to Hungary. He explained each step and seemed to be popping up everywhere during our tours. Dijan's explaining the history and nature of the countries in his talks during the day were very interesting. He filled in between what we learned when we walked and rode around with the tour guides outside during the days. Overall, we enjoyed learning about Eastern Europe on this Eastern Danube Cruise. Your 27-page Travel Documents packet was well prepared. I liked the details given for each country in terms of currency, being courteous, and watching what we ate and drank. We appreciated the casual nature of the cruise, no smoking, no jewelry and art sale, no casino, and interesting daily tours.
Bruce D.
This was our first Gate 1 trip and my wife, and I had a fantastic experience! I would like to make specific mention of the individuals (besides cruise director Adrien), who helped greatly make our vacation so special: Zsuzsanna - she was in complete control of every minute detail and did an amazing job managing the entire crew and operations. Wait staff in the restaurant - Amr, Yee & Milos, all of whom were very attentive and took care of our every need, often without being asked. Other outstanding staff who enhanced our overall service experience and deserve special recognition - Amelia at Reception and Kellen in Housekeeping Finally, I'd like to reiterate that this was one of the best vacations we have been on, and we have every intention of making Gate 1 our primary go to in the future.
Glen D.
The Eastern Danube River Cruise with Romania was wonderful. We feel that we learned so much from the beautiful countries that we visited along the Danube. We were very surprised by the beauty of each country. The scenery on the river was fantastic also. The crew of the Monarch Baroness were top notch and very helpful and friendly. Gate 1 did not disappoint.
Penny Halabi.
My wife & I had a wonderful time. Our group got along pretty well. Justus, the tour manager was very concerned for our safety and enjoyment of the whole group. Tomas, our bus operator is an excellent driver, very smooth when braking and accelerating. This trip was a fun trip, interesting people we got to meet and made new friends.
Danilo K.
This was the first river cruise my husband and I had ever taken, and we had a wonderful time. It was better than we had expected. Our cruise director, Mick, was outstanding. He kept us well informed and was patient, kind, fun, and genuinely concerned about the welfare of the passengers. Daniele, the activity host, also made the cruise fun. And we were blown away by the crew. They were extremely hard-working and always greeted us with a smile. Our room was kept spotless (thank you, Yoga) and the service in the restaurant and bar was over the top. Special thanks to Milos, Andreas, Mon, and Kris for the exceptional service. We will be recommending Gate One river cruises to our friends and hope to take another one in the future.
Cheri S.
My Prague/Danube Cruise was so much fun. It was my first cruise of any kind and I'm so glad that I went with Gate 1. What a beautiful, comfortable, and delicious way to travel. Every staff member on the Monarch Queen was kind, efficient, and happy. I felt like I was traveling with family.
Ruth S.
I would like to comment on our tour manager, Somo. He was absolutely fantastic. He interacted well with the travelers and he was very engaging and knowledgeable. He is an excellent tour manager. Our bus driver, Slavic, was also excellent. He is an very skillful driver and we enjoyed having him as our driver.
Thomas L.
Our tour manager for the Swiss Alpine Jewels trip, Dennis, was outstanding and went above and beyond in all respects. His knowledge, passion, enthusiasm and organization are top notch. He made the trip fun and rewarding for the whole group. Also, our driver, Pieter, was fantastic and super competent handling very difficult roads.
Stephen H.
We're lucky to have the leadership of our Tour manager, Katarina. Not only did she provide clear expectations from our group of 35, gave us enough free time to explore on our own, not afraid to make adjustments when needed, while always making sure we had the best time! She truly cared for our safety and comfort throughout the tour.
Teresita B.
Our tour Manager Kevin was very knowledgeable and exuded confidence at each location making it easy to follow recommendations. Enjoyed everything about this trip!
Kim H.
The beauty of Switzerland can only be really seen by visiting there. Our Crown Jewels of Switzerland tour of 12 days was amazing. Andrea, our tour leader, was so knowledgeable and took such good care of us that I can only give her a 10+. She was kind, caring and went overboard to make everyone comfortable. We saw more in 12 days than I ever imagined. I especially enjoyed staying in Zermatt and taking the cog train up to the Matterhorn. Our hotel's balcony looked up at the magnificent mountain one morning. The sky was perfectly clear, and the sun was shining on the north face. It was a memory I'll never forget. Our bus driver was amazing. He maneuvered the twists and turns of our route in an unbelievable way. I would recommend this 12-day Crown Jewels of Switzerland to anyone who really wants to see Switzerland in an up-close way.
Linda N.
The Monarch Princess is a beautiful riverboat, very comfortable and convenient for social exchanges. The food was outstanding. Each meal was delicious with a variety of options. The buffets were carefully attended to keep them attractive and well supplied. The officers and crew exceeded every expectation in terms of professionalism, friendliness, and genuinely great customer service. Jutta and Ellie are an outstanding cruise and activity team. We especially enjoyed the zither performance. Thanks for continuing to provide outstanding travel experiences.
Diane H.
This was my first tour with Gate1 Travel, and I was so impressed by the entire experience. I was most impressed with our Tour Guide, Julia, what a GEM you have in her. She made the experience so special, well versed in all areas we visited and the most personable individual. She cared about her entire group and went above and beyond if any of us needed anything. Her wit was extraordinary, and I can say that our entire group was comfortable with her. I look forward to another trip with Gate1 in the future.
Belinda M.
The Rhine cruise from Basel to Amsterdam had a well-planned itinerary, excellent food, and warm crew. Highlights included Breisach, Strasbourg, Heidelberg Castle, Koblenz and Cologne with its impressive cathedral. The Hotel in Baveno was fantastic and the town of Brugge was memorable, and we could have stayed there longer. Our guides were well informed, providing cultural immersion in those historic towns. Overall, we had a memorable trip.
Sohrab M.
This was my first river cruise. It exceeded my expectations in every way. I thought the dining room staff did a superb job at every meal. I can't think of anything they could improve upon. Our room steward Tugeh was excellent. Again, everything was perfect. Now to Ellie the activity director extraordinaire. I had assumed there was nothing to do onboard a river cruise but how wrong I was. Ellie had such fun activities and because of her game where you have to find your match, I met a new lifelong friend. The bartenders in the lounge were also very fun and there was such a feeling of camaraderie in our group. We will definitely be taking another river cruise going forward. We already have 2 land trips scheduled and are leaving next Saturday for Greece. We are Gate 1 Travelers for life now.
Helaine R.
We want to express our deepest appreciation & gratitude for ALL the staff involved in our trip...onboard as well as the tours. We all just fell in love with Daniel, he was like traveling along with a beloved son, as well as Matt & Altone, our guide in The Salt Mines & Auschwitz. Their knowledge, compassion & love for sharing their country's history by far exceeded anything we could have asked for. Also, the housekeeping, waitstaff, bartenders, etc. aboard the Monarch Queen were exceptional & delightful. Thank you.
Mary K.
I just came back home, from a trip to Switzerland. Those were 11 days of awesome and unforgettable travel. Not only that me and my husband enjoy it because we are with our friends but also, we made lovely friends there. Our accommodations were excellent, from the hotels and transportation. I would just like to make special mention to our tour guide and coach driver, namely Mihaela and Marco. They are very pleasant, accommodating, always one step ahead with our needs. Mihaela keeps us well informed about our schedule what is expected and is very particular with every minute details but at the same time friendly and very attentive. Marco is a very careful and excellent driver. They carry the company's name with professionalism and dignity. I, especially, have been to and met some tour guides but I can say Mihaela is different. If ever we buy another trip in Europe we wish to meet them again and I am not only speaking for myself but for the entire group.
Lorna R.
We loved, loved, loved our first Gate 1 experience! From the beauty of the Baroness with its ever attentive staff, to its Michelin quality food offering, scenic excursions with professorial tour guides, & our super tour director Kristina, we were blown away! Details & suggestions available by phone. BTW The new Bunker Tour in Budapest was spectacular!
Lauren S.
The trip was great!!! I am always so impressed with how Gate 1 handles all the interruptions that can happen on a trip. The planning is wonderful. On our trip we had to be bused to one location because of low water. It was handled with the upmost care for all of us ! Thank you Gate 1! This was my fourth trip you!
Kathryn B.
It was absolutely wonderful! Much to my surprise, I was fortunate to have the same tour guide I had last year on the Tulip River Cruise! Martin is definitely one of the best tour guides I've ever had (& that is many as this was my 38th trip with Gate1) if not the BEST!! Once again, the best trip ever thanks to all the superb staff at Gate1!!
Brenda K.
I cannot say enough good things about our wonderful Danube River Cruise with Budapest extension. It truly was a perfect vacation. Adrien and Nico are warm, kind people who made this trip so enjoyable. In fact, EVERY employee on the Monarch Queen made us feel at home. I miss them!!! Adrien is an outstanding tour manager. She is organized and detail oriented. She was full of helpful information and cared about our safety. Just one small example of her excellence, on our morning of departure from The Budapest Hilton, (excellent hotel and location!), she whisked us out at the back door of the hotel to meet our driver at the airport. Why? because the President of Albania was arriving to the hotel and the streets were closed off. We never would have known that and left to our own devices; we surely would have missed our flight!
Lynne M.