Danube Dreams with Habsburg & Royalty (Westbound) 2021

8 Day River Cruise Budapest to Deggendorf

2021 Information

This peaceful Danube River cruise through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany—explores some of Central Europe’s most splendid capitals and charming towns. You’ll also discover treasures of Austro-Hungarian royalty. Begin this timeless European river cruise in Budapest, where guided sightseeing acquaints you with the highlights of the vibrant capital of Hungary, including a visit to Gödöllö Royal Palace.

Set sail on the Danube, take pictures of the impressive Parliament Building as you leave Budapest, and head for Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Here, enjoy a guided walk through the delightful Old Town and visit the Gothic St. Martin’s Cathedral. Vienna, Austria, the “City of Music,” was also the home of the Habsburg monarchy, with the stunning Schönbrunn Palace and summer home of the family dynasty. Hear a fascinating lecture on royal dynasties in Europe with a historian on board your ship, and take a Viennese waltz lesson.

Enjoy the magnificent views through the picturesque wine region of the Wachau Valley, with stops for a guided walk in Dürnstein, a visit of the impressive Benedictine Abbey of Melk, and a tasting of renowned local wines. In Linz, walk around the Hauptplatz, Austria’s largest medieval square, which forms the center of the city, and be sure to photograph the splendid Trinity Column. Passau, Germany, the “City of Three Rivers,” is uniquely located where the Inn, Ilz, and Danube rivers converge. See its maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful Patrician houses, and marvel at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. A memorable last stop on this delightful Danube River cruise vacation!


Dates & Prices Get a Quote Book Online

Cruise at-a-Glance

Day 1 Budapest (Embarkation):Onboard welcome receptionDay 2 Budapest:Guided tour, see Heroes' Square; visit Gödöllö Royal PalaceDay 3 Bratislava:Onboard lecture about royal dynasties in Europe; guided sightseeing, visit St. Martin's Cathedral; onboard Waltz lessonDay 4 Vienna:Guided sightseeing; visit Schönbrunn PalaceDay 5 Dürnstein-Wachau Valley-Melk:Choice of guided walk or hike up to the castle ruins in Dürnstein; scenic cruise through the Wachau Valley; choice of guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey in Melk or visit Arstetten Castle; wine tastingDay 6 Linz:Choice of guided tour in Linz or full day excursion Romantic AustriaDay 7 Passau:Guided tour; guided hike with your Adventure Host Day 8 Deggendorf (Disembarkation):Your cruise ends this morning

Cruise YourWay

Avalon makes it easy to experience vacation your way with seamless extension options before and after your cruise. Your Way offers added nights in a selection of locales. From Budapest to Barcelona, you can spend a little or a lot more time getting to know more on shore with Your Way custom itineraries.

View 7 Your Way Cruise Options »

Always Included

You've always forged your own path...with your own distinct perspective of looking at the world. Avalon Waterways presents a river cruise experience with your unique style in mind—offering expansive views and wider perspectives. That's why we've designed a cruise experience that's just a bit different.

Here are just some of the features and amenities you'll experience on board our Avalon ships. See the Ship Amenities Section below for more information about the amenities in our fleet’s unique ships.

Throughout the Ship
Suites & Staterooms
Health & Fitness
Dining

Throughout the Ship:

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Panoramic windows
  • Elegant, contemporary design & decor
  • Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
  • Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
  • Covered Observation Lounge
  • Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day

Suites & Staterooms:

  • Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Premium L'Occitane bath products
  • Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
  • Individual climate control and in-room safe
  • USB Ports
  • Complimentary bottled water daily
  • And, much more.

Health & Fitness:

  • Bikes
  • Canoe, kayak and jogging excursions
  • Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes
  • Fitness and wellness activities
  • Fitbits®
  • All through your Avalon Adventure HostSM

Dining

  • FlexDining® for more venue and seating options, including flexible seating times in our Panorama Dining Room
  • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
  • Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
  • Early and Late Riser breakfast options
  • Daily a la carte breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily specials*
  • Daily a la carte lunch including regional specialties, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and classic dishes*
  • Alternative light lunch at Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather permitting)
  • Daily Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, sweet treats & sandwiches
  • Daily four-course a la carte dinner in the Panorama Dining Room with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts. Includes selections of regional recipes, Western dishes and vegetarian options.
  • Enjoy a tasting menu with a view in the Panorama Bistro - a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere while lingering over several satisfying selections
  • Captain’s welcome & farewell receptions and dinners with sparkling wine and canapés
  • Panorama Lounge featuring premium spirits and Avalon specialty cocktails, along with local entertainment special guests
  • Cocktails available on the Sky Deck
  • Fresh fruit available throughout the day

*Due to heightened health & safety measures, Avalon has replaced self-serve buffets with crew-served buffets and/or full a la carte menu options until further notice

Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. There are 3 types of included shore excursion on every Europe cruise:

Classic
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You’ll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
Discovery
We’ve found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests - from cooking classes, to painting workshops - to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
Active
Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go - from a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam, to biking, paddling, and hiking your way through scenic locales.
  • Plus independent exploration options and use of our exclusive AvalonGO APP.

Day-By-Day Itinerary

(B) = Breakfast   (L) = Lunch   (D) = Dinner

Day 1

(D)

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY (EMBARKATION)

Welcome to Hungary. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.

Flights into Budapest must arrive by 3:30 pm.

Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

The day is yours to relax and enjoy the city with time for photographs, cafés, and confections.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BUDAPEST
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Day 2

(B, L, D)

BUDAPEST

The Pearl of the Danube in the Heart of Europe

Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.

Classic
Enjoy a Guided City Sightseeing, including the iconic Heroes’ Square.
Discovery
Visit the Royal Palace of Gödöllö, one of the favorite retreat of Sissi.

Take in the beauty of Budapest while enjoying some free time exploring such famous sights as the Chain Bridge. Get to know the city’s cafés and pubs, or take a hike through the hills above the Danube.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BRATISLAVA
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Day 3

(B, L, D)

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

Classic and Contemporary—from Cathedrals to Castles

Discovery
Enjoy a lecture about European Royal dynasties
Classic
Take a Guided City Walk, including the quaint streets of Old Town, Town Hall, and fantastic St. Martin’s Cathedral.

Enjoy some free time to take Nordic walking sticks from the ship and hike to Bratislava Castle.

Discovery
Later, enjoy an onboard Royal Waltz lesson, a living cultural heritage from the Habsburg monarchy.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIENNA
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Day 4

(B, L, D)

VIENNA

Strauss, Schnitzel, Strudel, and Sachertorte

Classic
Venture into the Habsburg empire with a morning Guided City Tour of Vienna’s gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex— Winter residence of the Imperial Family, the historic Vienna Opera House and stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Discovery
Take a guided tour to Schönbrunn Palace—the former imperial summer home and vast gardens with a history spanning 300 years of the Habsburg monarchy.

In your free time why not stroll through pedestrian Kärntnerstrasse—the most famous shopping avenue in central Vienna, or take a bike ride through the city and stop in a local café to enjoy authentic Austrian confections of Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel.

Later this evening, you may choose to attend an Optional Excursion to a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO DÜRNSTEIN
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Day 5

(B, L, D)

DÜRNSTEIN–WACHAU VALLEY

Fairytale Castles, Kings, and Cobblestones

Classic
Join a Guided Walk, and hear the legendary tale of King Richard the Lionheart—who was imprisoned in the castle during the Crusades, OR:
Active
Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins to take in the spectacular view of the village, Danube, and the Wachau Valley below.

Later, stretch out on the Sky Deck as you sail through the Wachau Valley past vineyards, castles, and charming villages on your way to Melk.

MELK

Striking Frescoes and Breathtaking Views of the Wachau Valley

Classic
Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ, OR:
Discovery
Visit the Arstetten Castle, once owned by the Habsburg family and nowadays it is a property of the Hohenbergs,the family of Archduke Franz Ferdinand’s wife Sophie, Duchess of Hohenberg, assassinated in 1914.
Discovery
Enjoy the flavors of the Wachau Valley at a Wine Tasting on board.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO LINZ
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Day 6

(B, L, D)

LINZ

Fall in Love with Linz–Legendary Art, Music, and the Linzer Torte

Ask about today’s energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities.

Classic
Take a Guided Walk through the city’s historic and beautiful sites along the shore of the Danube and see Hauptplatz—Austria’s largest medieval square—and the towering white-marble Trinity Column, OR:
Discovery
Take a full day excursion among the picturesque mountain lakes and romantic villages beloved by the Habsburgs.

Alternatively, feel free to enjoy the afternoon on your own to bike along the banks of the Danube with a picnic from the ship, or hike through Linz’s beautiful nature trails to Pöstlingberg for a bird’s-eye view of the city and river below.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LINZ
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Day 7

(B, L, D)

SCHLÖGEN OXBOW–PASSAU

Go for Baroque in Passau–Where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers Meet

This morning, cruise through the Schlögen Oxbow, a particularly beautiful horseshoe-shaped bend of the river.

Classic
Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.”
Active
Follow your Avalon Adventure Host for Hiking from Oberhaus along a trail down to the valley and along Ilz River.

Spend a little free time before sailing to Deggendorf to walk the cobblestone streets and galleries of Artists’ Alley or peek into St. Stephen’s Cathedral to possibly catch a concert rehearsal.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO DEGGENDORF
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Day 8

(B)

DEGGENDORF (DISEMBARKATION)

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

Flights should not leave Munich airport before Noon.

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  • In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
  • Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
  • Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.

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Danube Dreams (Westbound)

Start Sooner, Stay Longer

Start your vacation earlier or stay longer with destination options before or after your Avalon cruise.

Ship Details

Impression

Impression

Part of Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Impression features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform the living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet. Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. You're sure to be impressed with the relaxed luxury and unequaled amenities of the Avalon Impression!

Included Amenities


Staterooms & Suites

Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E) - 172 sq. ft.
Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. D, E)
Features
  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Two windows
  • Writing desk and chair
Panorama Suite (Cat. A, B, P) - 200 sq. ft.
Panorama Suite (Cat. A, B, P)
Features
  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Marble countertops in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • 6-person sitting area
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Sofa
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Make-up mirror
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Coffee table
Royal Suite - 300 sq. ft.
Royal Suite
Features
  • Comfort Collection Beds
  • Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Choice of bed configuration
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • L'Occitane bath products
  • Easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Alarm clock
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Elegant, contemporary design
  • Marble countertops in bathroom
  • USB Ports
  • 6-person sitting area
  • Writing desk and chair
  • Sofa
  • Double sinks
  • Luxurious mattress toppers
  • European-style duvets
  • Extra blankets
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Hairdryer
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
  • Make-up mirror
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Complimentary water
  • Individual climate control
  • Large mirror in bathroom
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
  • Full shower with glass door
  • Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
  • Coffee table
DECK PLANS

Hotels

 Optional Excursions

No matter what you’re into: food, wine, history, art, music or anything else, we give you the freedom to personalize your vacation with optional excursions that speak to your interests.

When you book your excursions with us, you can be assured that every optional excursion that we offer coordinates with the free time that you'll have in your destination, so you'll never have conflicts between included and optional activities. Our team of travel experts carefully selects each optional excursion that we offer to ensure that you receive the highest quality at a great value. Our tried-and-true partners have a finger on the pulse of the city in which they operate so they deliver the very best experiences. We offer experiences you cannot create on your own and because you’re booking with us, we coordinate all your transportation and timing needs.

The following optional excursions are examples only for this vacation. These may or may not be offered, and availability is subject to days of operation and seasonality. Please select a departure date to view optional excursions and pricing for a specific date (due to currency fluctuation, pricing shown is subject to change until purchased). Optional excursions are available for purchase on our MyAvalon site 90 days prior to the tour start date.

Price Ranges

$ ($50 USD and under)
$$ ($51 - $100 USD)
$$$ ($101 - $150 USD)
$$$$ (Over $150)


Budapest
Bratislava
Vienna
Linz

Budapest

Belle Époque Art & Architecture of Budapest

Belle Époque Art & Architecture of Budapest

Travel back to the Golden Age of Budapest's Belle Époque on this captivating guided excursion featuring Andrássy Avenue, glass-painter Miksa Róth's Memorial House, and the crown jewel of Budapest: the incomparable Hungarian State Opera House!

Price Range: $$

Wine Tasting in the Hungarian Countryside

Wine Tasting in the Hungarian Countryside

Travel into the beautiful Hungarian countryside for an enriching half-day discovery of the Etyek wine region, including two wine cellar visits with wine tasting.

Price Range: $$

Bites & Highlights of Budapest

Bites & Highlights of Budapest

Experience some of Budapest's most famous sights and most delectable foods on this unique guided foodie tour!

Price Range: $$

Hungary on Two Wheels: Highlights of Budapest

Hungary on Two Wheels: Highlights of Budapest

From monumental cathedrals and castles to elegant shopping streets and bustling historic squares, this exciting guided bike tour shows you the best of Budapest's people, places, and culture!

Price Range: $$

Bratislava

Eckartsau Castle & Last Days of the Habsburg Empire

Eckartsau Castle & Last Days of the Habsburg Empire

Learn all about the final days of the Habsburgs on this mesmerizing visit to Eckartsau Castle, where the last Habsburg monarch was forced to abdicate, ending the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Price Range: $$

Danube Wetlands with Orth Castle & Wildlife Cruise

Danube Wetlands with Orth Castle & Wildlife Cruise

Enjoy Austria's fantastic natural beauty on this exceptional day trip to the Danube Wetlands, featuring the national park, Orth Castle, and a zodiac boat cruise to search for resident wildlife!

Price Range: $$

Ancient Carnuntum, Border of the Roman Empire

Ancient Carnuntum, Border of the Roman Empire

Experience what life was like for Roman Empire soldiers and citizens living along the Danube on this exciting visit to the Carnuntum archaeological site.

Price Range: $$

Vienna

Schönbrunn Palace, Cultural Gem of Austria

Schönbrunn Palace, Cultural Gem of Austria

Visit magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former summer residence of the Habsburg imperial family.

Price Range: $$

Classical Concert

Classical Concert

Enjoy a spellbinding evening of classical works by Mozart and Johann Strauss, performed brilliantly by professional Salon Orchestra Alt-Wien musicians in one of Europe's prettiest venues.

Price Range: $$

Bites & Highlights of Vienna

Bites & Highlights of Vienna

Experience some of Vienna's most delectable foods and traditions on this unique guided foodie tour!

Price Range: $$

Linz

Southern Bohemia

Southern Bohemia

You'll feel like you've stepped right into the Middle Ages on this full-day excursion to Ceský Krumlov, the "Pearl of the Bohemian Forest".

Price Range: $$$

Sound of Music Salzburg

Sound of Music Salzburg

From Mozart to "The Sound of Music", this delightful excursion provides an in-depth look at both the city of Salzburg and its majestic surroundings.

Price Range: $$$

Mauthausen Concentration Camp

Mauthausen Concentration Camp

Tour the notorious Mauthausen Concentration Camp, one of WWII's largest and most brutal Nazi work camp complexes.

Price Range: $$

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