Aug 3 -   ESZTERGOM ESCAPADE

s we sailed upstream overnight, we arrived at Esztergom, a charming gem among Hungary's ancient towns. This medieval royal capital is now home to the nation's archbishop. Together, let's explore the renowned neoclassical basilica perched over the Danube, standing tall at the border of Slovakia. Marvel at one of the world's largest altarpieces and a trove of invaluable religious treasures within. Don't miss the intriguing castle that once governed this land before the Ottomans arrived in the 16th century.

Beneath it all, you'll find many quaint churches echoing enchanting choir melodies, transporting you back to provincial Hungary during the Habsburg era. Later enjoy your first delectable lunch onboard as we bid farewell to Esztergom and drift along the river. Take in the captivating contrast between Hungary's picturesque landscape on one side and Slovakia's stunning towns and villages on the other - a truly unforgettable journey.

Aug 4 -  BEAUTIFUL BRATISLAVA

Today, we set off on an adventure in Slovakia's rapidly rising capital, Bratislava, with a guided tour in store. Once cocooned in the bleak sameness of Communism, the city now proudly radiates the grandeur of its imperial history through its exquisitely rejuvenated Old Town. The majestic 17th-century castle overlooking the Danube is another awe-inspiring sight to behold.

As afternoon rolls in, we sail into the tranquil heartland of Lower Austria, renowned for its top-notch wines and idyllic landscape. By now, you'll find daily stresses fading away as you fully immerse yourself in the constantly evolving riverside tableau: playful children dotting the banks, love-struck couples wandering hand-in-hand just like their ancestors once did, meticulous winemakers tending to their vines, and charming half-timbered buildings lining cobbled quaysides.

Step outside to watch our Captain expertly steering the vessel along the placid river and deftly navigating through intriguing locks during our dinner cruise towards Dürnstein. Gaze upon the captivating towns and villages of Hungary on one bank, while Slovakia unfolds on the other.

DÜRNSTEIN & MELK: A JOURNEY THROUGH TIME AND TALENTS

Durnstein is a picturesque town that will capture your heart with the ice-blue tower of its iconic abbey and the imposing castle where Richard the Lionheart found himself captive in 1192 following a shipwreck upon his return from the crusades.

Begin your day with a delightful guided walk through this captivating town, retracing the footsteps of historical legends. The once-majestic castle now lies in ruin atop a rocky ridge, yet it's not difficult to envision England's legendary king fuming with impatience, stuck miles away from home as his loved ones scrambled to gather funds for his release.

After lunch, prepare to be wow'd by the grandeur of Melk Abbey. The magnificent honey-hued structure perched atop the rolling countryside will take your breath away at first glance. This former castle was bequeathed to the Benedictine Order in the 11th-century and has since been transformed to a Baroque masterpiece in the 18th century while remaining a thriving monastic school and monastery. Explore its star attractions including the impressive 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery adorned with exquisite portraits, stunning chambers, and an intricately designed library. After our tour, return to your ship for a sumptuous dinner as you continue cruising through the enchanting Nibelungengau region, forever immortalized through Wagner's harmonious melodies.

EXPLORATION OF FAIRYTALE SALZBURG or LINZ

Upon arriving in Linz, you can choose to remain in the city and join a fascinating guided walking tour, uncovering the beauty of its baroque old town. Strolling through its heart, you'll encounter one of Austria's most exquisite squares, adorned with grand pastel-hued facades and a striking white marble Trinity Column topped with a golden sunburst. Additionally, don't miss the imposing castle, constructed high above Linz by Emperor Friedrich III, now home to a museum displaying an array of remarkable nineteenth and twentieth-century art.

Or, venture with us to Salzburg, a former independent state transformed by its archbishops into one of the Alps' most cultured cities. The majestic Hohensalzburg fortress graces the skyline - one of Europe's largest stone strongholds - while beneath it lies the enchanting Altstadt or Old Town, dotted with church domes and spires. Be sure to explore the magnificent Hellbrunn Palace and admire the Mirabell Palace's exquisite formal gardens - a paradise for horticulture enthusiasts. AFS groups love Salzberg so much, they don't want to leave.

Begin your day by immersing yourself in the city's primary attractions alongside an experienced local guide. Afterward, you'll be free to roam at your leisure. Excellent retail therapy here.  You'll find Mozart's influence throughout the city – from his prodigious harpsichord playing at age three to his first opera composition at just 11 years old!

Keep in mind that lunch isn't provided during this full-day Salzburg adventure; however, the ship is happy to supply a tasty packed lunch if you like. Afterwards return to the ship to delight in yet another delectable dinner.

ELIGANT VIENNA

Get ready for an unforgettable day in Vienna, a city that exudes charm, grace, and harmonious tunes at every turn. Picture yourself strolling along grand boulevards, marveling at Baroque architecture, and soaking in the diverse culture that drew people from all over Europe. For two centuries leading up to World War I, Vienna reigned as Europe's cultural heart, filling its streets with stunning galleries, aristocratic mansions, and divine churches that still display its imperial past.

Prepare to be captivated by Saint Stephen's Cathedral, a striking masterpiece with a vibrant roof and an imposing Gothic South Tower that define the city's skyline. Explore the enormous Hofburg — once a royal court, now home to splendid museums, the Crown Jewels, the Spanish Riding School, and the Vienna Boys' Choir. Don't forget to visit the resplendent Imperial Apartments and a marvelous collection of Holy Roman Empire relics— you might even catch a glimpse of Charlemagne's purported saber! Just across the street lies the Kunsthistorisches Museum, proudly housing the world's fourth-largest painting collection. Join a local expert this morning to uncover why Vienna holds its rightful place among Europe's legendary capitals — as both the Habsburg emperors' seat and birthplace of renowned classical composers like Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart, and of course, the Strauss dynasty.

Then the afternoon is yours to explore Vienna's hidden gems at your leisure. Walk around the Prater Park with its iconic Ferris wheel—featured in famous Cold War spy flicks—or delve into history at Schönbrunn Palace, a former royal abode now brimming with top-notch museums and exhibitions. Alternatively, lose yourself in picturesque side streets or savor traditional Viennese coffee along with delectable Sachertorte at one of Vienna's quaint cafés.

Lastly, prepare for an extraordinary climax to your day: we've arranged a live classical recital on board to enjoy a transcendent evening as you savor sublime music in the very heart of the city where it was born. A perfect finale to a memorable day in Vienna!

DISCOVER BUDAPEST

Savor a relaxed morning onboard as we gracefully sail through Hungary's serene, picturesque countryside heading toward Budapest.

Following lunch, we'll embark on an exciting sightseeing adventure around this enchanting city, which truly justifies its nickname as the 'Pearl of the Danube'. The two neighboring cities of Buda, encircling a hilltop fortress, and Pest, lined with expansive boulevards, have witnessed countless battles over time. The Ottomans held dominion here for 150 years before being expelled in the late 17th century, but their influence endures in the numerous thermal baths and hot springs scattered around Budapest – aptly coined the 'City of Spas'. After ending the Ottoman era, Budapest flourished into an imperial metropolis under Habsburg rule, amassing extensive cultural and commercial riches. Castle Hill is a mini-replica of Budapest itself: nestled among its streets and squares lie two churches, seven museums, a theater, and breathtaking views across the river to the awe-inspiring neo-Gothic Parliament Building. Budapest's infinite galleries, museums, exceptional Art Nouveau architecture, and superb shopping opportunities provide an eloquent conclusion to your Danube cruise experience.

The evening comes alive with a Gala Dinner and a traditional Hungarian folklore show.  This evening comes alive with a Gala Dinner and a traditional Hungarian folklore show.

Aug 9 - DISEMBARK

After breakfast this morning, the crew bids you farewell before you disembark the ship.