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Home » destinations » Europe » Hungary » Riviera Travel The Music of the Blue Danube
Embark on a musical journey along the Danube, retracing the steps of renowned composers like Strauss, Mozart, Beethoven, and Hayden. This European river cruise immerses you in the inspirational landscapes and legendary cities that gave birth to timeless melodies.
Explore Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, and Salzburg, each a haven for musical mastery. Expert guides will unveil the extraordinary lives of these maestros, while you revel in live music at atmospheric venues and visit the homes of the greatest composers. Immerse yourself in the beauty and grandeur of the Danube while connecting with the rich musical heritage that graced its shores.
Day 1 – Arrival in Budapest
Arrive in Budapest and transfer to the ship, with plenty of time to settle in before dinner
Day 2 – Esztergom
Awake to the sight of Esztergom, a former royal capital which is now the seat of Hungary’s archbishop. Take a tour of the famed basilica, seeing one of the world’s largest altarpieces and a variety of priceless artifacts. While in the town, it is worth exploring the castle, which was the seat of government until the 16th Century. At lunchtime, enjoy views of both Hungary and Slovakia as the ship leaves towards Bratislava
Day 3 – Bratislava
Follow in the footsteps of renowned composers such as Hummel, Bartók, Rubinstein, Liszt, Hayden, Beethoven, and the young Mozart, as you wander through the Bratislava’s Old Town, concluding with a visit to The Primate’s Palace, one of Slovakia’s most beautiful classicist buildings. Here, in the majestic Mirror Hall, you’ll enjoy an enchanting classical music performance.
Later, as you cruise into Lower Austria, a serene and bucolic region known for its excellent wines, you’ll witness
Please note that while the Primate’s Palace is an official building, if there’s an emergency meeting, our concert will be held in the equally impressive Art Nouveau Moyzes Hall.
Day 4 – Dürnstein & Melk
Dürnstein is famed for its iconic ice-blue abbey tower and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after a crusade mishap. A guided walking tour this morning will delve into the city’s history. After lunch, your journey takes you to the awe-inspiring Melk Abbey, a honey-coloured marvel gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th century. The reconstructed Baroque masterpiece features the renowned 214-yard Emperor’s Gallery, ornate library, and many fine rooms. Back on board, enjoy views of Nibelungengau and the Maria Taferl Basilica, a pilgrimage site in Lower Austria. The region’s beauty, a muse even for Wagner, inspired the epic operatic series “Der Ring des Nibelungen,” drawing from the 12th-century German poem, the Nibelungenlied.
Day 5 – Salzburg
Today, the ship docks in Linz and you’ll journey through the Austrian countryside to Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. Explore key sights with a local guide in the morning, and take time to discover more about Mozart, the city’s beloved figure, amid various tributes, from statues to quirky items like rubber ducks. Visit Mozart’s Birthplace, now a top museum, to delve into his extraordinary life and achievements. Head to the Mozart Residence to see his original pianoforte and authentic documents. Conclude the visit with a classical piano concert at the Fischbrunnensaal of the Alte Residenz, featuring Mozart’s iconic works from the Baroque era. You then return to the ship for a delightful dinner as we cruise overnight to Vienna
Day 6 – Vienna
Your day in Vienna begins with a city tour led by a local guide, exploring its status as one of Europe’s great capitals, home to Habsburg emperors and legendary composers like Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart, and the Strauss family. Highlights include the iconic Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg. Later, visit the renowned Vienna Boys Choir for behind-the-scenes access and a rehearsal glimpse.
In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to explore the Kunsthistorisches Museum, Prater, or Schönbrunn Palace, or simply stroll through Vienna’s atmospheric streets. The evening features a Captain’s dinner on board, followed by a classical recital by local professionals, providing the perfect finale to your day in the City of Music.
Day 7 – Budapest
Enjoy a relaxed morning cruising through Hungary’s pastoral landscape en route to Budapest. After lunch, delve into the captivating city on a sightseeing tour, exploring the historic twin cities of Buda and Pest. Visit the innovative House of Music, and explore its musical exhibits, installations, and Hungarian music history. Stroll around Városliget Lake and the park near Vajdahunyad Castle before returning to the ship.
The evening concludes with a lively Hungarian folklore show during dinner, featuring authentic folk dances and traditional instruments like the Hurdy-Gurdy and Cimbalom. As this marks the last night on board, bid farewell to travel companions and reflect on the inspiring places and experiences of this imperial cruise
Day 8 – Return Home
Transfer back to the airport for your return flight
MS William Wordsworth
MS Emily Brontë
Fact File
*All transfer times listed here are approximate and dependent on traffic.
Airport or train station | Ship location | Transfer time |
---|---|---|
Budapest Airport | Budapest | 45 mins |
Please call us free on 0800 707 6229 for pricing and availability
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