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Fairytale Bavaria & Delights of the Danube

 
4.2 stars(39 reviews)
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202620272028
Duration
13 days
From per person
£3,799 £3,499
Tour code
BYR27
Mobility Rating 2
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Explore the majestic mountains and castles of Bavaria and cruise leisurely along the Danube River, one of Europe's most iconic and diverse waterways 

Bavaria's enchanting landscapes of castles, forests and mountains create a stunning backdrop to this captivating holiday.

While in Füssen, experience the romantic beauty of the region with visits to the famous Neuschwanstein Castle, Linderhof Palace and Church of Wies, and a journey on the Zugspitze Railway.   

Uncover the wonders of central Europe on a Danube river cruise, beginning in Budapest. Explore the city's rich history before drifting by the Danube Bend. Admire the magnificent architecture of Vienna and Bratislava and cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley.  

Unforgettable Experiences

Journeying on the scenic Zugspitze Railway
Journeying on the scenic Zugspitze Railway
Enjoy a remarkable journey aboard this unique railway passing forests, tunnels and mountains as we ascend the Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak, for panoramic views of the Alps. 
Visiting the renowned Neuschwanstein Castle
Visiting the renowned Neuschwanstein Castle
Embrace the enchantment of this fairytale fortress that captures the romantic essence of the medieval period, blending architectural styles and serving as the inspiration for the iconic castle in Disney's Sleeping Beauty. 
Experiencing the beauty of Budapest
Experiencing the beauty of Budapest
Admire the Danube from a new perspective on an evening cruise past Budapest’s illuminated buildings and wander among the array of grand architecture on both sides of the Danube in the city. 
Touring elegant Vienna
Touring elegant Vienna
Uncover the grandeur of this noble imperial city on a tour of the majestic Ringstrasse’s architecture and enjoy time at leisure where you can discover Viennese coffeehouse culture. 
Cruising the sensational Wachau Valley
Cruising the sensational Wachau Valley
Sail through the verdant valleys and vineyards of this beautiful stretch of the Danube River, before a guided tour of the 11th-century Melk Abbey with breathtaking views across the Danube. 
Exploring Salzburg or Český Krumlov
Exploring Salzburg or Český Krumlov
Walk in the footsteps of Mozart and discover the enchanting city of Salzburg on a guided tour or spend your day in the fairytale Bohemian town of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic.  

Itinerary

DAY1To Stuttgart 

Meeting at London St Pancras, your holiday begins as we board the Eurostar to Paris. We continue by regional train into Germany, arriving in Stuttgart to spend our first night in this popular city.

Famous as the birthplace of Mercedes-Benz and Porsche, the city is a blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty. After settling into our accommodation, we gather for our first dinner together this evening at the hotel.  

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Alpine beauty in Füssen 

After breakfast at the hotel this morning, we journey by rail to Füssen, where we will spend the next three nights. Green fields and picturesque villages pass the windows, turning to more dramatic mountain scenery as we enter the Allgäu region in the foothills of the Alps.

Arriving in Füssen, on the banks of the glistening Lech River, your afternoon is free to explore. Füssen began as a Roman fort but expanded after the founding of the Benedictine St Mang's Abbey in the early 9th century. This baroque complex perches on the bank of the river and today houses a museum detailing the history of the town. Füssen's medieval Old Town offers quaint, cobbled streets lined with colourful buildings, housing traditional shops and cosy cafés. The town also boasts a Gothic castle perched on the hilltop, Hohes Schloss, that provides great views out over the historic town centre.

After taking in the sights of this captivating town, we gather at our hotel to enjoy dinner together.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3Fairytale Neuschwanstein Castle & Zugspitze Railway

One of Bavaria's finest castles awaits us today - the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle. Entrance is included, where we can enjoy spectacular views overlooking the Schwangau Valley. Commissioned by the reclusive King Ludwig II of Bavaria, the castle is an architectural masterpiece and served as the inspiration for the castle in Disney's Sleeping Beauty.

Built in a striking Romanesque Revival style, it features soaring towers, turrets, and battlements, set against a backdrop of rugged mountains and verdant forests. Its interior is just as impressive, with ornate carvings, murals, and an opulent throne room that showcases the king's fascination with medieval lore.   

Transferring to the stunning Eibsee, enjoy some free time to find lunch and marvel at the crystal-clear, turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks. We then board the scenic Zugspitze Railway, journeying through lush green meadows, rocky terrain, and snow-covered mountains. We arrive at Zugspitzplatt, a plateau on Germany's highest mountain, Zugspitze, where we can take in panoramic views across the German and Austrian Alps. We enjoy another ride on the Zugspitze Railway, before returning to Füssen for dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY4Rococo opulence at Linderhof Palace & the Church of Wies

This morning, we visit the romantic Linderhof Palace. The smallest of King Ludwig II's palaces, it is the only one that was completed in his lifetime and was a frequent residence of the king. Designed in Rococo style and inspired by the Palace of Versailles, the façade is adorned with intricate reliefs and statues, looking out across the beautifully landscaped terrace gardens. The interior of the palace is the epitome of opulence, with lavish furnishings framed by ornate gold carvings covering the walls and ceilings.

Leaving Linderhof Palace, we transfer to the UNESCO-listed Church of Wies. This outstanding Rococo church began as a pilgrimage site to visit a wooden figure of Christ on which tears allegedly appeared, leading to a church being built for the miraculous statue and the many pilgrims visiting it. Designed in the 1740s, the Rococo interior features exuberant, colourful sculptures and stuccowork and a remarkable trompe-l'œil ceiling.

This afternoon, we return to our hotel where there is some time to unwind before dinner together.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY5To Budapest, where we board our luxurious ship 

Today we travel by rail to the mesmerising city of Budapest, where our seven-night Danube cruise begins. Our luxurious ship awaits us here and we're greeted with a welcome cocktail in the lounge.

After settling into our cabins and familiarising ourselves with the ship, we sit down to our first dinner on board. This evening, we also enjoy the enchanting ambience of a traditional Hungarian Folklore troupe, celebrating Hungary's culture and heritage with their performance.  

Once the sun sets, we begin a night-time cruise along the Danube River, taking in the illuminated sights of Budapest. From the Gothic-style Parliament building to the grand Buda castle, the state buildings that line the banks on both sides are all lit up - as well as the iconic Chain Bridge. Whether you choose to relax in the cosy lounge or take in the panoramic views from the sun deck, Budapest's elegant scenery is a spectacular start to our cruise. 

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY6Exploring Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’ 

This morning, we delve deeper into the beauty and history of Budapest we saw illuminated last night. On a sightseeing tour of the Hungarian capital, known as the 'Pearl of the Danube', we explore its impressive buildings and monuments. From Heroes' Square, the State Opera House and St Stephen's Basilica on the flatter Pest side, to Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion on the Buda hills, each site reveals the grandeur and charm of this appealing city.    

After lunch on board, there's time at leisure - you could explore the castle district further, pick up some souvenirs or Hungarian paprika at the Central Market Hall, or relax in one of the city's extensive parks.     

Sailing upstream through the evening, we navigate the scenic Danube Bend. This section of the river has a long and fascinating history and, from the sun deck or panoramic windows in the bar, you'll have the best views as we pass the village of Visegrad, famous for its hilltop castle, and Esztergom, the former capital of Hungary. 

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7Uncovering the old-world charm of Bratislava  

Making our way to Slovakia's capital, we are welcomed by brilliant views of Bratislava Castle's gleaming white walls atop its hilltop perch.     

Despite being a national capital, beautiful Bratislava is nicknamed the 'Little Big City' due to its compact size. On our tour, we admire attractive squares, idyllic streets, grand palaces and historic churches. Keep an eye out for some of Bratislava's quirky statues, including a sculpture commemorating Schöne Náci, an eccentric local character, and Čumil, a subterranean worker peeking out of a manhole. From the hilltop castle, gaze out across the terracotta roofs of the Old Town and the SNP Bridge - also known as the UFO bridge because of its futuristic design.   

With free time after lunch on board, you can wander the Old Town's charming streets, where each corner reveals delightful views. Alternatively, head out of the centre to uncover iconic Soviet-era architecture, such as the inverted pyramid of the Slovak Radio building or the 12-tonne stainless steel linden flower in the Union Fountain. This evening, we set sail again after dinner. 

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Embracing the imperial majesty of Vienna 

After a peaceful overnight cruise, the noble city of Vienna beckons. On arrival, we embark on a guided tour to uncover Austria's imperial heritage. With our expert guide, we make our way to the illustrious Ringstrasse - a circular boulevard that surrounds the city's historic centre. Here, we see many of Vienna's most ornate buildings, including the world-renowned Opera House and striking Parliament building. 

  After our tour, you're free to take in Vienna's sights independently. Stroll amongst its scenic streets, marvelling at the striking St Stephen's Cathedral or enter one of the countless museums and galleries that bring the city's history to life. You may choose to visit Schönbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the ruling Habsburg family, or indulge in a slice of famous Sachertorte, a delicious Viennese cake, at one of the grand coffeehouses.  

  Tonight, a real treat awaits us in the lounge as we're joined by four previous members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra who captivate us with their performances of well-known classical pieces. 

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY9Melk Abbey and the scenic Wachau Valley 

Arriving in the riverside village of Dürnstein this morning, there's free time to wander the charming streets and admire its powder-blue Baroque church tower. Dürnstein is also home to the hilltop castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned during the 12th century, and we get a great view of it from the riverside. 

  Back on the ship, we enjoy lunch as we set sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley - truly a highlight of the Danube. This scenic area of green valleys and vineyards is dotted with attractive riverside towns and commanding fortresses. It is also one of Austria's most famous wine-making regions, specialising in Grüner Veltliner.    

Docking in Emmersdorf this afternoon, we set out for a visit to Melk Abbey. This 11th-century Benedictine abbey sits on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views overlooking the Danube. On our guided tour, we see the abbey's church, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches north of the Alps, with a majestic interior decorated with luxurious marble and gold leaf. 

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY10Salzburg and the Austrian Lake District or Český Krumlov 

Waking in beautiful Linz, there are two excursions to choose from after breakfast. The first option is a day trip to Salzburg, a striking city overlooked by Hohensalzburg Fortress set high on a hill. Enroute, we stop in the Austrian Lake District for a beautiful photo opportunity, before arriving in Salzburg. During a guided sightseeing tour, we explore Getreidegasse, the street on which Mozart was born. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning Baroque architecture, beautiful churches, quaint squares and charming alleyways that we can admire on our explorations.    

Alternatively, join an excursion into Czechia to visit Český Krumlov, a fairytale Bohemian town. On a tour, we explore the palatial 13th-century castle, occupying an imposing position high above a bend on the Vltava River. A guided walk around the UNESCO-listed Old Town - followed by time at leisure - reveals idyllic streets and picture-perfect squares showcasing Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture.     

We return to our ship for dinner on board and set sail for an overnight cruise into Germany. 

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY11Crossing the German border to Passau 

Today, we conclude our relaxing cruise along the Danube. Drifting through beautiful scenery into Germany, we admire rising hills covered with vineyards and orchards. The ever-changing landscapes create a picturesque backdrop, occasionally revealing charming villages, medieval castles and centuries-old monasteries that cling to the hilltops. 

  After lunch, we arrive in our final port of call, the Bavarian town of Passau. We get to know the town as we embark on a guided tour of Passau, which is known as the 'Three Rivers City' because it sits at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers. The delightful Old Town is filled with Baroque architecture, including St Stephen's Cathedral, and lies in the shadow of the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fortress.     

Tonight, we enjoy a farewell gala dinner on our ship to celebrate our last night on this magical waterway.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY12From the Danube to the Rhine-side city of Cologne 

It's time to leave our ship this morning as we say goodbye to our wonderful crew after breakfast. Making our way to the rail station, we board a train for a journey through Germany to the city of Cologne. 

Standing on the Rhine River, this grand city is dominated by its Gothic cathedral with two piercing spires. Just outside Cologne's main train station, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a symbol of the city, and the largest church in northern Europe. Originally founded by the Romans as Colonia 2,000 years ago, this historic city was damaged heavily in World War Two, leading to a fascinating mixture of historic, reconstructed and modern architecture.  

After checking in to our hotel for an overnight stop, there's free time to explore before our final dinner together this evening. Perhaps visit one of Cologne's traditional pubs to sample a Kölsch, a type of beer that is only brewed in the Cologne area.

*Please note: on the 13th June and 5th September departures, we will stay overnight in Cologne instead of Frankfurt.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY13Homeward bound

This tour and cruise holiday has showcased Bavaria's natural beauty, history and culture. Neuschwanstein Castle and the Zugspitze Railway enchanted us, before our cruise showcased the treasures of the Danube. From natural wonders such as Danube Bend and the Wachau Valley to the famed cities and pretty villages lining its banks, the Danube has revealed the magical landscapes of central Europe.    

Leaving Cologne by rail after breakfast, we travel to Brussels where we then board the Eurostar to London. On arrival at London St Pancras, your Danube holiday concludes and you can continue home independently.  

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Travel timings in your Holiday Confirmation are provisional and are subject to change. We will confirm your travel times in your final itinerary around 10-14 days before your departure. Eurostar or Flight times will be confirmed to you approximately 30-50 days before departure.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

What’s included on the tour?

Combine your river cruise with an iconic tour

Explore a world of incredible destinations and travel moments, from hidden gems to iconic sights.

Prague

Imperial Cities & Delights of the Danube

13-day holiday

Explore the historic sites of Berlin and Prague by rail before embarking on a luxury Danube river cruise through Vienna and the Wachau Valley.

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Bratislava

Glacier Express, Austrian Alps & Danube Cruise

14-day holiday

Experience the legendary Glacier Express before embarking on a cruise, discovering the cultures and beauty along the Danube river.

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Budapest

Delights of the Danube: Budapest to Passau

11-day holiday

Sail from Hungary to Germany on one of Europe's most diverse rivers, exploring imperial culture, grand architecture and picturesque towns.

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Trains & Ships

More information on the different trains and ships that are used on this tour.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Riva Cabin DS | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Suites - Upper Deck

Travel in luxury and style when you choose one of our Deluxe Suites. Our largest en-suite cabins, at 26.4 square metres, a walk-out balcony, walk-in wardrobe an river-view lounge area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Riva Cabin A1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Upper Deck

These en-suite cabins are stylish and impressively spacious at 17.5 squre metres, with a panoramic window balcony, walk-in wardrobe and seating area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Riva Cabin B1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Middle Deck

These en-suite cabins are stylish and impressively spacious at 17.5 squre metres, with a panoramic window balcony, walk-in wardrobe and seating area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Riva Cabin C1 | Great Rail Journeys
Classic Stateroom - Lower Deck

Our Classic Staterooms offer quality, and elegance with space to relax in comfort at the end of the day. And we recognise the importance of having somewhere inviting to retire to after an engaging day of cruising or excursions. These 16 square metre en-suite cabins offer a wide picture window and large walk-in wardrobe.

Find out more

Enhance your holiday

London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

Read more

We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels
UK rail connections

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

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We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.

UK train tickets

Reviews

4.2 stars4.2 / 5 · 39 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (20)
  2. 4 stars
    (9)
  3. 3 stars
    (5)
  4. 2 stars
    (1)
  5. 1 star
    (2)

Alan Creasey

5 stars

Submitted 1/Aug

This has been my second river cruise with GRJ. I found it brilliant, and considering the “low water problem”, affecting the cruise programme, it was dealt with expertly to ensure that our pleasure was maintained. The crew were great, and the way Andrew, Cruise Director, and Debbie Cruise Manager, organised things, keeping us fully informed was so helpful. Food was also very good, I would certainly consider doing another cruise with GRG.

Collected by Trustpilot

Colin bushell

5 stars

Submitted 8/Jul

An excellent, happy, well planned and managed tour.

Collected by Trustpilot

Maureen Costamagna

5 stars

Submitted 1/Jul

Incredible holiday definitely 5 star. Guides, tours food and accomodation were all spot on ??

Collected by Trustpilot

David

5 stars

Submitted 26/Jun

Great holiday we'll organised.

Collected by Trustpilot

Heather McQuiston

5 stars

Submitted 01 Aug 2025

Absolutely loved everything we saw… the trains were hard to manage so take minimal luggage. A truly unforgettable trip!!!

Collected by Trustpilot

Heather McQuiston
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M Beckingsale

5 stars

Submitted 25 Jul 2025

Amazing trip, covered so much. Tour manager dealt with the German train issues admirably. Will definitely do another river cruise.

from Great Rail Journeys
Hi Ms Beckingsale, Thank you for your review. I'm very happy to hear that you managed to pack so much in to your holiday with us. We certainly look forward to welcoming you on tour again in the future. Best wishes, Richard
1 comment

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