Danube Dreams (Eastbound) (Visionary)

Danube Dreams (Eastbound) (Visionary)

tourhub | Avalon Waterways | Danube Dreams (Eastbound) (Visionary) | WDB-2026-Visionary
tourhub | Avalon Waterways | Danube Dreams (Eastbound) (Visionary) | WDB-2026-Visionary | Map
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8 Days From

$5255

$3983

Danube Dreams (Eastbound) (Visionary)

8 Days Starting in Vilshofen, Germany and ending in Budapest, Hungary

Visiting: Vilshofen, Passau, Linz, Wachau Valley, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest

Tour operator:

Avalon Waterways

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Trip Styles:

Active, River Cruise

Activities:

Cycling, Hiking, Sightseeing, Walking

From: $5255 $3983 Operator discount: -$1272 -24%

NB: Prices correct on 04-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the enchanting "Danube Dreams (Eastbound) (Visionary)" river cruise, a captivating journey through the heart of Europe. Begin your adventure in Vilshofen, Germany, and sail through the picturesque landscapes of Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Experience the charm of Passau's cobblestone streets, the historic beauty of Linz, and the breathtaking Wachau Valley. Discover Vienna's imperial grandeur and Bratislava's quaint Old Town. In Budapest, marvel at iconic landmarks like Heroes' Square. With options for guided walks, hikes, and bike tours, this cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Enjoy onboard entertainment and savor the local flavors as you cruise along the majestic Danube River, creating unforgettable memories in some of Europe's most beautiful cities.

Highlights

  • Guided walk or hike in Passau, exploring the "City of Three Rivers" and Schlogen Oxbow scenic cruising.

  • Sightseeing in Linz, including Hauptplatz and the Trinity Column, with optional excursions to Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov.

  • Cruising through the Wachau Valley with options to visit Durnstein castle ruins or the Benedictine Abbey in Melk.

  • Exploring Vienna's Imperial Palace, Opera House, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with optional excursions to Schonbrunn Palace.

  • Guided sightseeing in Bratislava, including St. Martin’s Cathedral and a hike to Bratislava Castle.

  • Scenic cruising into Budapest with a guided tour of Heroes’ Square and optional excursions to explore the city further.

Places You'll See

Intercontinental Budapest

Budapest Marriott

Intercontinental Budapest

Budapest Marriott

Itinerary

tourhub | Avalon Waterways | Danube Dreams (Eastbound) (Visionary) | WDB-2026-Visionary | Route Map

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Day 1: Vilshofen,Germany (Embarkation)

Location: Vilshofen

Accommodation Name: Ship

Meals Included: Dinner


VILSHOFEN, GERMANY (EMBARKATION) Welcome to Germany. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.

Flights into Munich must arrive by 2 pm.

Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

Explore your ship and enjoy dinner on your first evening on board.

EVENING CRUISE TO PASSAU

(D)

Day 2: Passau,Schlögen Oxbow

Location: Passau

Accommodation Name: Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers".

PASSAU–SCHLÖGEN OXBOW Where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers Meet

ACTIVE Follow your Avalon Adventure Host for Hiking from Oberhaus along a trail down to the valley and along Ilz River, OR:

CLASSIC Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers".

Before sailing to Linz, take a little free time to explore Passau’s cobblestone streets and galleries of Artists’ Alley. Maybe stop at St. Stephen’s Cathedral to catch a concert rehearsal.

This afternoon, cruise to Linz through the Danube’s dramatic horseshoe bend called Schlögen Oxbow.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LINZ

(B,L,D)

Day 3: Linz,Austria

Location: Linz

Accommodation Name: Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


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.
LINZ, AUSTRIA Legendary and Lovely Linz

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

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.

Consider a full-day Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg—the city of Mozart, or to the picturesque Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov.

You may otherwise spend the afternoon on a biking picnic along the banks of the Danube or hike through Linz’s beautiful nature trails to Pöstlingberg for a bird’s-eye view of the city and river below.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO DÜRNSTEIN

(B,L,D)

Day 4: Wachau Valley,Dürnstein

Location: Wachau Valley

Accommodation Name: Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ.

WACHAU VALLEY–DÜRNSTEIN A King’s Ransom and Castle Ruins

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

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, OR:

CLASSIC Join a Guided Walk, and hear the legendary tale of King Richard the Lionheart—who was imprisoned in the castle here during the Crusades, OR:

CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ.

Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIENNA

(B,L,D)

Day 5: Vienna

Location: Vienna

Accommodation Name: Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Explore 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 grand Vienna Opera House, and stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

VIENNA Viennese Waltzes on the Blue Danube

ACTIVE Explore Vienna's Danube Island by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:

CLASSIC Explore 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 grand Vienna Opera House, and stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

You may decide to take a Guided Optional Excursion to Schönbrunn Palace—the former imperial summer home of the Habsburg monarchy.

Spend free time strolling in the pedestrian Kärntnerstrasse—the most famous shopping avenue in central Vienna. Take a bike ride through the city and stop in a local café to enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel.

This evening, enjoy an unforgettable musical performance with an Optional Excursion to attend a Royal Waltz Concert in an elegant hall.

OVERNIGHT SAILING TO BRATISLAVA

(B,L,D)

Day 6: Bratislava,Slovakia

Location: Bratislava

Accommodation Name: Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Take a Guided City Walk, including the quaint streets of Old Town, Town Hall, and the sight of royal coronations at St. Martin’s Cathedral.
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

Cathedral Coronations and a Crowning Castle

ACTIVE Follow your Avalon Adventure Host on a hike to lofty Bratislava Castle, OR:
CLASSIC Take a Guided City Walk, including the quaint streets of Old Town, Town Hall, and the sight of royal coronations at St. Martin’s Cathedral.

Enjoy free time to discover on your own Bratislava, the beautiful capital of Slovakia, rich in history and culture, but also a green city with its forests and parks just a hop away from the city center.

OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BUDAPEST

(B,L,D)

Day 7: Budapest,Hungary

Location: Budapest

Accommodation Name: Ship

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Enjoy a Guided City Sightseeing, including the iconic Heroes’ Square.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY Monuments and Markets

ACTIVE Hike up to a magnificent viewpoint in Budapest with your Adventure Host, OR:

CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided City Sightseeing, including the iconic Heroes’ Square.

This afternoon, choose from a wide range of Optional Guided Excursions. Spend free time exploring famous sights like the Chain Bridge or Fisherman’s Bastion. Linger in one of the city’s beautiful cafés, browse the Central Market Hall, or hike the hills above the Danube.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BUDAPEST

(B,L,D)

Day 8: Budapest (Disembarkation)

Location: Budapest

Meals Included: Breakfast


BUDAPEST (DISEMBARKATION) Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.

(B)

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in Budapest at InterContinental Budapest and Budapest Marriott.

  • Meals

    Daily meals are included: breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours and sightseeing in various cities including Passau, Linz, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest.

  • Onboard Entertainment

    Live entertainment is provided on board the ship.

  • Cruise

    Cruise through the Danube River, including scenic cruising through the Wachau Valley and into Budapest.

What's Not Included

  • Visa Requirements

    Responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions such as a full-day guided tour to Salzburg or a Royal Waltz Concert in Vienna are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is the responsibility of the traveler.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Alterations Due to Conditions

    In the event of technical or water level issues, the itinerary may be altered, and such changes are not covered.

Mode of Transport

The tour primarily involves scenic cruising along the Danube River, with options for guided walks, hikes, and biking excursions at various stops along the way.

Accommodation

In Budapest, enjoy luxurious stays at the InterContinental Budapest and the Budapest Marriott, offering comfort and elegance in the heart of the city.

Direction

Eastbound

Notes

  • 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.

Rivers

Danube

Check out our Q&As

  • What activities are available in Passau?

    In Passau, you can join a guided city walk to learn about the 'City of Three Rivers' or follow the Avalon Adventure Host for a hike from Oberhaus along a trail down to the valley and along the Ilz River. You also have free time to explore Passau's cobblestone streets and galleries, and you might catch a concert rehearsal at St. Stephen's Cathedral.

  • What can I expect to see during the cruise through the Wachau Valley?

    During the cruise through the Wachau Valley, you can relax on the Sky Deck and enjoy views of vineyards, castles, and charming villages as you sail towards Dürnstein.

  • What are the options for exploring Vienna?

    In Vienna, you can take a guided city tour to see the Imperial Palace complex, Vienna Opera House, and St. Stephen's Cathedral. Alternatively, you can explore Vienna's Danube Island by bike with your Adventure Host. There is also an optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace and the opportunity to attend a Royal Waltz Concert in the evening.

  • What is included in the guided tour of Bratislava?

    The guided tour of Bratislava includes a walk through the quaint streets of Old Town, a visit to Town Hall, and the sight of royal coronations at St. Martin's Cathedral. You can also choose to hike to Bratislava Castle with your Adventure Host.

  • What can I do in Budapest on the last day of the cruise?

    On the last day in Budapest, you can enjoy a guided city sightseeing tour that includes Heroes' Square. There are also optional guided excursions available, and you have free time to explore famous sights like the Chain Bridge or Fisherman's Bastion, visit the Central Market Hall, or hike the hills above the Danube.

  • Cuisine

    All meals on board are prepared by accomplished chefs who prepare regional specialties as well as familiar favorites with only the freshest, local ingredients. Our Suite Ships® feature daily buffet-style breakfast and lunch with your choice of soups, main courses with starter, salad, or sandwich, and, of course, dessert. Complimentary room service is also available with Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On the Mekong and Ganges, a mix of Western and local dishes is offered; in the Galápagos, you'll be able to taste some Ecuadorian specialties; and in the Amazon, you will be able to sample Peruvian specialties along with Western dishes.

  • Cruise Director

    A professional, experienced, English-speaking Cruise Director accompanies every departure. Naturalists are on board in the Amazon and Galápagos. Special Interest cruises typically include an expert specific to the cruise theme—from Wine Masters to History Experts.

  • What about young travellers and children?

    In our many years of cruising experience, we have found that children under the age of eight typically are too young to fully enjoy a cruise vacation. Because of this and for the safety and enjoyment of all passengers, we do not accept children under eight years of age. In addition, please note that there are no special arrangements or activities for children on our ships.

  • What are single room supplements?

    For single travellers who prefer the privacy of their own room and stateroom, single accommodation can, of course, be requested.

  • Clothing & Dress Code

    Your comfort is our first concern. Onboard and onshore dress codes are casual. Please bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing. Dinner attire is casual—open-neck shirts and slacks for men; slacks, skirts, or dresses for ladies. Coats and ties may be worn if preferred. The Welcome and Farewell Dinners in Europe are dressy, but not formal. On the Mekong, Ganges, Amazon, and Galápagos, dress attire, including coats and ties, is not recommended due to the warm, humid climate.

  • When will I receive my digital travel documents?

    Avalon will email you a set of travel documents, which includes a copy of your itinerary and, where applicable, information on your hotels and optional excursions. Electronic Travel documents, including applicable eTicket receipts, itineraries, and other information are sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure, provided full payment has been received.

  • Where can I find the docking location for my cruise ship?

    Avalon Waterways strives to bring you the best docking locations along Europe’s rivers. In many cities, this includes multiple docking sites. Docking positions at each port are assigned by local authorities, and may vary depending upon the number of ships in port on any given day. This can sometimes result in double-docking with more than one ship assigned to the same dock and the ships “rafted” together, temporarily obstructing some views from on board the ships. Exact docking locations will be available 24-72 hours prior to embarkation. Before your cruise’s docking location is available, you can download a map of all possible docking sites for your embarkation city at www.AvalonWaterwaysPorts.com. Once your ship’s docking assignment is available, you can download a map that shows only that specific location, including address.

  • Are Avalon River Cruises Handicap Accessible?

    Avalon Waterways makes reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled and mobility impaired travellers but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so. Because we cannot provide individual assistance to travellers in many situations, and most of our transportation services are not equipped with wheelchair ramps, we recommend that you view our terms and conditions for details or contact us to learn more.

  • Internet Access

    All Avalon ships in Europe have complimentary Wi-Fi available. On the Mekong and Ganges, complimentary Wi-Fi access is available in the Panorama Lounge. The signal is not always reliable, as you will be cruising through remote areas. To access the ship's Wi-Fi Internet network, you will be given a PIN number at reception to use on your laptop, tablet, or mobile device. Wi-Fi is not available in the Amazon or Galápagos.

  • Onboard Language

    The language on board is English. All staff, crew, and tour guides speak English. All announcements and commentary will be in English.

Reviews of this operator

Kristina McGuire  

Rhône river from Carmargue to Lyon

07-Jul-2023

I am in my 70’s And travelled with my son who is in his mid 30’s. We both had different experiences and many shared ones. We both agree that the Avalon cruise on the Rhone was a great experience. The crew,without exception, was friendly and helpful, the accommodation comfortable and food and wine, delicious. We both gained a lot from our daily shore based experiences,learning about many facets of France, history, culture, economy, farming, industry and the great and varied beauty. I definitely felt my experience extended me in many ways and my son did too. Highly recommend a cruise. Thank you

Trustpilot
MaryEllen Ferderber  

8 day active and discovery on the Moselle from Luxembourg to Frankfurt

07-Jul-2023

8 day active and discovery on the Moselle. Fabulous itinerary and well selected guides. The scenery and weather June 4th, were perfect. Katy, our cruise director was outstanding and well organized. Bitak, the activity host was wonderful, very personable, and helpful. Really all the staff were very professional, kind, and ready to make our vacation a trip of a life time. The chef, Michael I believe was 5 star! Can’t wait to book another river cruise.

Trustpilot
Fernand Baillargeon  

Memorable cruise on the Mekong

17-Mar-2023

The Vietnam/Cambodia Mekong cruise on the Avalon Saigon was our First river cruise and overall it was fantastic. Excellent service on board and outstanding guides for the shore excursions. The Crew/staff were friendly and professional. All of it conducted like a symphony by our excellent Cruise director, Khan. The only thing we would like to see improved is a two nights stay at the Vinpearl, Halong bay (one night is not adequate). Thank you Avalon and the Crew of the Saigon for making our trip memorable.

Trustpilot
Larry Preston Omo   Portugal

Festive Season in the Heart of Germany (Tranquility II)

14-Dec-2023

This tour with Avalon was our first river boat cruise. Overall we enjoyed the experience. The ship was very nice, the crew was terrific and the food was good and presented very well. Our room was fine and the cleaning staff did a remarkable job. We enjoyed all of the excursions and the beautiful German towns we visited, particularly Rothenburg - what a delightful place. We appreciate all of the assistance Tourhub provided prior to our trip. We will continue to use your services. Thanks for everything.

Bob K  

1st River Cruise Exceeded Expectations

07-Aug-2023

My wife and I were looking to do something special for our 50th anniversary so we booked a weeklong cruise on the Rhone. We had done many ocean cruises but this was our first river cruise and it was wonderful. The food, the entire staff, and the excursions were all first rate. We made many new friends during the cruise and I suspect we'll be back on a 2nd river cruise with Avalon in the not too distant future.

Trustpilot

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Monday - Monday

Apr 06, 2026 - Apr 13, 2026
$5255 $3983

Operator discount: -$1272

Monday - Monday

Apr 20, 2026 - Apr 27, 2026
$5100 $4082

Operator discount: -$1017

Monday - Monday

May 04, 2026 - May 11, 2026
$5496 $4479

Operator discount: -$1017

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 03, 2026 - Jun 10, 2026
$5496 $4479

Operator discount: -$1017

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jun 17, 2026 - Jun 24, 2026
$5652 $4380

Operator discount: -$1272

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 01, 2026 - Jul 08, 2026
$5906 $4380

Operator discount: -$1526

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 15, 2026 - Jul 22, 2026
$5906 $4380

Operator discount: -$1526

Wednesday - Wednesday

Jul 29, 2026 - Aug 05, 2026
$5906 $4380

Operator discount: -$1526

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 12, 2026 - Aug 19, 2026
$5906 $4380

Operator discount: -$1526

Wednesday - Wednesday

Aug 26, 2026 - Sep 02, 2026
$6048 $4777

Operator discount: -$1272

Wednesday - Wednesday

Sep 09, 2026 - Sep 16, 2026
$5639 $4876

Operator discount: -$763

Wednesday - Wednesday

Sep 23, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
$5893 $4876

Operator discount: -$1017

Friday - Friday

Oct 23, 2026 - Oct 30, 2026
$5850 $4578

Operator discount: -$1272

Friday - Friday

Nov 06, 2026 - Nov 13, 2026
$5807 $4281

Operator discount: -$1526

Friday - Friday

Nov 20, 2026 - Nov 27, 2026
$5608 $4082

Operator discount: -$1526

Prices last published on 04-Dec-2024

Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Avalon Waterways requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of avalon waterways charges.

    Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.

    At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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