Danube Delights & Classic Prague

Welcome to Budapest, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Eastern Europe. Here, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to the comfortable surrounds of your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you.

Your ship will remain docked in Budapest overnight so you can head out to discover some of the city’s legendary nightlife.

Traditional Hungarian folklore show
This evening, enjoy a lively Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.

Emerald Cruises transfers are only available for flights arriving into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.

Wake in Budapest this morning. The Hungarian capital is divided by the iconic Danube River, with Buda and Pest on either side. They can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city’s most symbolic structures.

Included Excursion
Included Excursion: Guided coach tour of Budapest
Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed centre, travelling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue, Heroes’ Square and the Buda Castle district, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. 

Bordering Austria and Hungary, the Slovakian capital is yours to discover today. Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, Bratislava is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. At the same time, the complex history of Communism can be found in its Brutalist landmarks and military monuments.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava
Enjoy a sightseeing tour, including the enchanting Old City. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.

Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
Be invited into the home of a local Slovakian family to learn about their culture over coffee and cake. Get an insight into their history, culture and traditions as they show you how they live every day. 

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Carpathian wine route (extra expense)
Explore the viticultural towns of the Small Carpathian Wine Route, including the vineyards of Vinosady and a family-run winery in Senkvice. You’ll learn about the proud heritage of winemaking and sample some local wines in a historic wine cellar.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration 4hr 40min

Austria’s breathtaking capital is recognised for its cultural legacy. As the home of Mozart and Beethoven, it has a proud musical tradition and the fascinating museum district houses the work of some of the world’s most prolific artists. A late departure tonight gives you more time to uncover Vienna’s many charms.

Included Excursion
Art tour of Vienna, including Kunsthistorisches Museum
Discover the creative heart of the city on an art tour that showcases its world-class galleries and museums, including the Kunsthistorisches Museum – Austria’s largest and one of the most celebrated art institutions in the world. 

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Viennese evening concert (extra expense)
With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna’s most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz’ and the ‘Radetzky March’. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion.
Activity level: Easy; Duration: 2.5 hours

Stop in enchanting Dürnstein this morning, from where you’ll get to visit one of Austria’s most important Benedictine abbeys.

Included Excursion
Göttweig Abbey
Explore this ancient abbey today on a special tour. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape since 2000, it’s one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys and attracts visitors from all over the world. Built in 1083, it continues to serve as a spiritual centre in the heart of Lower Austria and is run by a community of around 34 monks.Later, relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise through the World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Melk, nestled in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Tracing its origins to Roman times and early medieval rulers such as the Babenbergs, this vibrant town charms with its blend of stunning Baroque architecture, wonderful river views and rich cultural heritage.

Situated on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is a postcard-worthy destination that has been shaped by the surrounding waterways. Maze-like romantic lanes weave through the city, opening into large squares and magical promenades adorned with classical boutiques.  

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Passau
On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop’s Residence and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe. 

Cruise the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg today. One of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities it welcomes you with two millennia of history. Despite its ancient past, modern-day Regensburg has a relaxed atmosphere, its streets made lively by the high population of university students.

Later tonight, enjoy a Traditional Bavarian band on board. You’ll remain docked overnight in Regensberg if you would like to go ashore and experience its vibrant nightlife. 

EmeraldPLUS
Walking tour of Regensburg with Bavarian sausage tasting
Set out on foot to discover the highlights of Regensburg. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the World Heritage-listed Old Town and 13th-century Town Hall invite you to live through the city’s history. The highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Followed by a Bavarian sausage tasting experience at a local restaurant for a taste of the region’s flavours. 

EmeraldPLUS
Bavarian band performance on board
Make your way to the Horizon Bar & Lounge for a special performance from a Bavarian band, who will play traditional music and wear their authentic Lederhosen.

Today you'll disembark your luxury Emerald Star-Ship in Regensburg, ready to be transferred to the Czech Republic and its enchanting capital, Prague - home to some of the world’s most pristine collections of architecture from across the ages.

Upon arrival, settle into your centrally-located hotel, which is included in your exciting three-night Prague stay. Later, meet your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.

Soak in the sights of Prague on your included morning tour. Later, you may continue exploring the city at leisure.

Included Excursion
Guided city tour of Prague
This morning, join a guided walking tour of Prague, exploring its vivid history through its Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, with each style encapsulating a slice of the city’s past. After passing through castle courtyards, you'll visit St. Vitus Cathedral, walking down the Castle steps, where you can enjoy wonderful views across the city of Prague. Continue to Charles Bridge to reach the charming Old Town of Prague. You'll conclude your enthralling city tour in front of the famous Astronomical Clock at Old Town Square. Afterwards, enjoy time at leisure to explore more of Prague.

EmeraldPLUS
Coffee & Cake at Lobkowicz Palace
Enjoy a moment of sheer indulgence at Lobkowicz Palace, one of the most significant cultural sites in the Czech Republic. Here, freshly brewed coffee and delicate pastries are served against a backdrop of aristocratic charm and history.

You may choose to continue exploring independently today or join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion. Your tour director will be on hand to help you plan a day of discovery in Prague; a city often regarded as one of Europe’s most magical. Perhaps sample some delicious Czech treats or immerse yourself in the rich culture that surrounds you, from the elegant Baroque Quarter to Malá Strana, one of the capital’s most historic districts.

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Tastes of Czechia
During this fascinating tour, you’ll learn all about the wonderful variety of Czech wines. A short walk from your hotel will take you through some of the city's most interesting hidden corners, before arriving at a local restaurant. Meet your sommelier and enjoy a welcome drink of Czech sparkling wine, followed by a selection of red, white and Rosé wines; each one comes accompanied by traditional charcuterie and cheeses carefully selected to complement every glass.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

This morning, after breakfast, it's time to say farewell to beautiful Prague as you're transferred from your hotel to the airport. As you depart, you'll take with you cherished memories of ancient wonders, the flavours of Prague and panoramic views of World Heritage-listed sites.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.