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The Beautiful Blue Danube: Passau Round Trip

 
4.6 stars(76 reviews)
You are viewing the 2026 itinerary. Select your departure year
20262027
Duration
10 days
From per person
£2,299
Tour code
DPR26
Mobility Rating 2
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Half-price upgrades

Half-price top deck cabin upgrades worth up to £500 per cabin on selected 2026 sailings, when you book by 15th December.

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Experience a stunning 10-day river cruise, offering the perfect introduction to the must-see sights of the Danube from Bavaria to Budapest and back

Enjoy a leisurely cruise through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way.

Sail from the German town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and Melk Abbey enroute. After exploring imperial Vienna, the captivating Hungarian capital of Budapest and the Baroque Old Town of Bratislava, you visit Linz before returning to Passau.

This delightful cruise uncovers the highlights of this iconic river, where every bend reveals a new chapter in the story of Europe's cultural tapestry.

Unforgettable Experiences

Setting sail on five-star Amadeus ships
See Europe from a new perspective onboard our exquisite chartered ships. With first-class service, inclusive meals and drinks packages, and all excursions included, you’re free to relax and marvel at breathtaking scenery as we sail.
Experiencing the beauty of Budapest on a guided tour
Experiencing the beauty of Budapest on a guided tour
Marvel at the incredible riverside Parliament building, hilltop castle, striking churches and majestic monuments of Hungary’s capital, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’.
Enjoying a tour of elegant Vienna
Enjoying a tour of elegant Vienna
Uncover the home of the influential Habsburg empire on a tour of the Ringstrasse’s majestic architecture, viewing the Opera House and Hofburg palace.
Sailing the verdant Wachau Valley to Melk Abbey
Sailing the verdant Wachau Valley to Melk Abbey
Cruise amid the vineyards of Austria’s Wachau Valley before visiting the 11th-century Melk Abbey to bask in beautiful views across the Danube.
Uncovering the charm of picture-perfect Bratislava
Uncovering the charm of picture-perfect Bratislava
With idyllic streets lined by ornate Baroque buildings and dotted with quirky statues, an exploration of Slovakia’s compact capital is an enchanting experience.
Exploring the cultural Austrian city of Linz
Exploring the cultural Austrian city of Linz
Discover a charming blend of historic and modern architecture on a guided sightseeing tour of Linz, the cultural and artistic centre of Upper Austria.

Your Floating Hotel, MS Amadeus Cara

Fantastic Onboard Amenities
Fantastic Onboard Amenities
With nightly entertainment in the Panorama Bar, a fitness centre, massage facilities, a putting green, shuffleboard, giant chess, a sprawling Sun Deck, and chef-prepared meals included, each moment is filled with options.
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Mouthwatering Cuisine
Each meal is an event to remember during your cruise itinerary, with regionally inspired breakfast and lunch options, delicious four-course dinners accompanied by complimentary drinks, and a spectacular captain’s gala on the final evening.
Impeccable Service
Impeccable Service
As you drift along the Blue Danube, enjoy first-class service from a highly trained crew, each member on hand to answer your questions, top up your drinks, and ensure your comfort as you sail between destinations.
Comfortable Cabin Options
Comfortable Cabin Options
Whether it’s a Deluxe Suite on the Upper Deck, a Deluxe Stateroom on the Upper or Middle Decks, or a Classic Stateroom on the Lower Deck, every cabin is designed with your comfort in mind
Immersive Ports of Call
Immersive Ports of Call
Extraordinary destinations line the Danube River, and included shore excursions offer insight into the rich histories of Salzburg, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest, along with the stunning scenery of the Wachau Valley.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1From London to Frankfurt

Your holiday begins as we meet at London St Pancras this morning*. Boarding the Eurostar service, we travel to Brussels then continue by rail to Frankfurt, via Cologne, for an overnight stop.

This bustling city on the Main River is one of the most important in Germany. Perhaps surprisingly for a global financial and business hub, its medieval Old Town retains a quaint atmosphere. The centrepiece is the historic Römer, a triple-fronted building with distinctive crow-stepped gables that has acted as the city hall for more than 600 years.

On arrival, we check in to our hotel for the night and enjoy our first dinner together as a group this evening.

*If you would like to travel by air, view our Fly & Cruise option here.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Day 2 – Discovering Frankfurt and boarding our luxurious ship in Passau

A guided walking tour of Frankfurt after breakfast introduces us to its attractive Old Town that sits surrounded by gleaming towers. The heart of the medieval centre is Römerberg square, lined by a huddle of colourful half-timbered buildings and the small, medieval Old Nicholas Church.

This afternoon, we journey by rail to Passau where our luxurious ship awaits. We're greeted onboard by our friendly crew and sip on a welcome cocktail while taking in the waterside views from the lounge. After settling into your cabin and familiarising yourself with our ship's facilities, we indulge in our first delicious five-course dinner on board and set sail downstream on our first cruise of the holiday.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3Melk Abbey and the scenic Wachau Valley

Docking in Emmersdorf this morning, we set out for a visit to Melk Abbey after breakfast. This 11th-century Benedictine Abbey stands atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube. On our guided tour, we see the abbey's church, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches north of the Alps.

Back on the ship, we enjoy lunch as we sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley - truly a highlight of the Danube. This scenic area of valleys and pretty towns is one of Austria's most famous wine-making regions, specialising in Grüner Veltliner.

Arriving in riverside Dürnstein, there's free time to sample the local produce or simply 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.

After dinner onboard, we sail into magnificent Vienna. On arrival, a real treat awaits us in the lounge as we're joined by four previous members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra who perform well-known classical pieces.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Embracing the imperial majesty of Vienna

The noble city of Vienna beckons today as we embark on a guided tour to uncover Austria's imperial heritage. With our expert guide, we make our way to the illustrious Ringstrasse boulevard. Here, we see many of Vienna's most ornate buildings including the world-renowned Opera House and the imposing Parliament.

Following the tour, there's time to explore the city at leisure. It's a delight to stroll amongst its scenic streets, marvelling at the striking St Stephen's Cathedral or entering 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.

During dinner this evening, we begin our overnight cruise towards Budapest.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5Exploring Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’

Arriving in Budapest after breakfast, we're introduced to the city's beauty and history on a sightseeing tour of the Hungarian capital - dubbed 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 dinner back on board this evening, we enjoy the enchanting ambience of a traditional Hungarian Folklore troupe before a highlight of our cruise. A magical night-time cruise along the Danube reveals the incredible illuminated sights of Budapest. From the piercing spires of the iconic neo-Gothic Parliament building to Buda's huge Baroque castle, the state buildings lining both banks are lit up, as well as the Chain Bridge. Whether you choose to relax in the cosy lounge or take in the panoramic views from the sun deck, this is the best way to see this beautiful city as the flickering lights cast a magical glow across the Danube.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6Sailing the beautiful Danube Bend

A morning at leisure in Budapest provides wonderful opportunities to uncover the city further. You could explore the castle district, pick up some souvenirs or paprika at the Central Market Hall, or relax in one of the city's extensive parks. Alternatively, unwind with a morning visit to one of Budapest's famed spas, including the Gellért thermal baths in an Art Deco building beside the river.

Sailing upstream after lunch, 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. Continuing overnight, our route follows the border between Hungary and Slovakia.

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

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

Despite being a national capital, beautiful Bratislava is nicknamed the 'Little Big City' due to its compact size. Wandering the utterly charming streets, where each corner reveals delightful new views, 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, soak up views across the terracotta roofs of the Old Town and the SNP Bridge - also known as the UFO bridge because of its futuristic design.

After lunch, we set sail back to Austria, enjoying delightful views of forested hills occasionally topped with romantic castle ruins.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Arrival in the cultural Austrian city of Linz

After a relaxed morning of cruising, we arrive in Linz this afternoon for a guided tour. This thriving city blends historic and modern architectural styles. The focal point of life in Linz is the Hauptmarkt, one of the largest main squares in Austria. Wandering the charming lanes of the Old Town reveals timeless scenes and impressive churches, while its 14th-century castle now houses a museum.

The rest of our day is at leisure, and you can experience the welcoming atmosphere of this vibrant and forward-thinking city at your own pace. With a mix of traditional Austrian elegance and a booming cultural scene, you could spot public art installations or venture into renowned modern galleries.

Back on our ship this evening, we enjoy a farewell gala dinner as we begin our final cruise towards Passau.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY9From Passau to Cologne

As our ship docks in the Bavarian town of Passau, it's time to bid farewell to our wonderful crew after breakfast as we disembark.

Leaving Passau by rail, we travel by train to Cologne via Frankfurt. 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.

On arrival, we check in to our hotel and enjoy our final dinner together this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY10Homeward bound

This rail-and-cruise holiday has showcased the beauty of the Danube from Passau to Budapest and back. From natural wonders such as the Wachau Valley and Danube Bend to the elegant cities and pretty villages lining its banks, this spectacular river has revealed the treasures of central Europe.

Leaving Cologne by rail, we travel by train to Brussels via Frankfurt. In the Belgian capital, we board the Eurostar for the final leg of our journey back to London St Pancras, where your holiday comes to an end.

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.

Trains & Ships

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

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara 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 Cara 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 Cara 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 Cara 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.

Read more

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

4.6 stars4.6 / 5 · 76 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (51)
  2. 4 stars
    (18)
  3. 3 stars
    (6)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (1)

Philip Adams

5 stars

Submitted 30/Sep

Wonderful experience! Worth flying in from Singapore to enjoy our time on the cruise with exceptional staff, facilities and fellow passengers.

Collected by Trustpilot

Brenda Conway

5 stars

Submitted 16/Sep

I have already written a review & have given the holiday 5 stars. I made a few comments which you may find useful.

Collected by Trustpilot

David

5 stars

Submitted 11/Sep

Excellent on board facilities and tour management. First class restaurants with superb menus

Collected by Trustpilot

John Mortimer

5 stars

Submitted 11/Sep

A great fun, well balanced ,and very informative cruise while giving plenty time for relaxation.

Collected by Trustpilot

Mr. L. Robinson

5 stars

Submitted 11/Sep

Fabulous holiday.

Collected by Trustpilot

Maggie Brown

5 stars

Submitted 11/Sep

An elegant way to travel on the river. Visited several beautiful cities. So many wonderful sights to see. Ship/cabins well appointed. Superb food on board. We were looked after extremely well. Thoroughly recommend this trip.

Collected by Trustpilot

Maggie Brown
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River Cruise Holidays 2026

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Experience the magic of cruising along some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways. Glide serenely along the romantic Rhine, explore the blue Danube or meander through the enchanting Douro Valley. With our river cruises, you’ll drift through beautiful landscapes and historic towns.

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