The Legendary Danube (12 Days) 

     Board your overnight transatlantic flight.

     Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. It straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires, and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. Best-known treasures are the Old Town’s Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all of Europe; HRADCANY CASTLE; St. Vitus Cathedral; and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books. Mix with the locals in Wenceslaus Square or stroll along the Vltava River. Your Cruise Director will have other suggestions for things to do. (BB daily)

     After lunch, drive to Nuremberg where the crew of your vessel waits to welcome you on aboard. (BB,D)

     Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous Gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg’s traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (FB,L,D)

     Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall; the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL; and the Porta Pretoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town and one of Bavaria’s cultural centers. (FB,L,D)

     Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. Linz, Austria’s third-largest town, is situated on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port. (FB,L,D)

     Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! Vienna, known as the “City of Music,” inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight. (FB,L,D)

     Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights. You do not rush through Vienna, you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. (FB,L,D)

     Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN'S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (FB,L,D)

     Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (FB)