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Grand European Cruise - Westbound

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Grand European Cruise - Westbound

No Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Our Price From 20,280 Per Person
 Trip Length
25 Days
 Trip Starts
Bucharest
 Trip Finishes
Amsterdam
25 Day Grand European Cruise - Westbound Itinerary (Tauck)
Our Price From 20,280 Per Person
 Trip Length
25 Days
 Trip Starts
Bucharest
 Trip Finishes
Amsterdam
25 Day Grand European Cruise - Westbound Itinerary (Tauck)
Cruise Line
Tauck
Ship
MS Treasures +1
Departures
Passengers
98
Crew
36
Launched
2011
Refurbished
2018
Cruise Code
RXW
Cruise Line
Tauck
Ship
MS Treasures +1
Departures
Passengers
98
Crew
36
Launched
2011
Refurbished
2018
Cruise Code
RXW

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Tauck's 25 Day Grand European Cruise - Westbound. Explore stunning European landscapes like never before on this river cruise between Bucharest and Amsterdam! Journey nearly all the way from the Black Sea to the North Sea as you set off on a grand 3-week cruise through nine European countries, plus three nights at a city-center hotel in Bucharest.
Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Tauck's 25 Day Grand European Cruise - Westbound. Explore stunning European landscapes like never before on this river cruise between Bucharest and Amsterdam! Journey nearly all the way from the Black Sea to the North Sea as you set off on a grand 3-week cruise through nine European countries, plus three nights at a city-center hotel in Bucharest.

Itinerary

Tour begins: 6:00 PM, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. A transfer is included from Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport to the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel in the heart of the city, ideally located adjacent to Bucharest's monumental Palace of Parliament. Join us this evening for a Tauck Exclusive at the Bragadiru Palace (a.k.a the Palace of Culture).

Named after founder Dumitru Marinescu Bragadiru, one of Romania's most important industrialists, the palace was originally used as a brewery and a performance hall before being confiscated in the 1940's (later returning to the descendants of Bragadiru in the early 2000's). Attend a special welcome reception at the palace, complete with musical entertainment. Stay Three Nights: JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel (D)

A choice of sightseeing today echoes the legacy of 15th-century Romanian prince Vlad Tepes (a.k.a. "Vlad the Impaler"), thought to be the historical model for Bram Stoker's Dracula. You may choose to take a full-day excursion to Transylvania's 14th-century Bran Castle, which Tepes once used as a fortress during his military campaigns; the excursion includes a visit to the castle and free time in Bran.

Alternatively, you can travel on a full-day excursion into the Carpathian Mountains to the mountain resort town of Sinaia and visit a nearby castle. Or, drive to Targoviste to visit the formal royal court of Vlad the Tepes a.k.a. Dracula. Return to Bucharest for free time. If you wish, have dinner at the hotel tonight, or choose to enjoy a lunch or dinner at the hotel at another time during your stay. (B/L/D)

Explore more of Romania's capital on a morning sightseeing tour with our local guides, seeing such sights as Revolution Square and the Triumphal Arch, and ending in Bucharest's Old Town. The rest of the day and evening are yours to spend pursuing what interests you most in this fascinating city. (B)

Before embarking your riverboat today, drive to Romania's popular Black Sea coast – first to the popular resort of Mamaia for lunch and some "beach time," then on to the port city of Constanta. Here, in what was originally the ancient Greek colony of Tomis, you'll view numerous Greek and Roman antiquities, an Art-Nouveau casino, and a monument to the Roman poet Ovid, who spent years in exile here. Board your riverboat in Constanta to launch your unforgettable cruise across the ancient heart of Europe. Stay 21 Nights: aboard your luxurious Tauck river ship (B/L/D)

Your lower Danube cruise continues in Bulgaria; largely off limits during four centuries of Ottoman rule and decades behind the Iron Curtain, the country's rich natural beauty and history is yours to discover today.

Disembark in Ruse – often referred to as "Little Vienna" for its Art-Nouveau homes, Austro-Hungarian architecture and lively cafés – for a choice of sightseeing today. You may join us for a guided walking tour of the Basarabov rock church, and its easily-accessible chapel, or alternatively, embark on a vigorous hike to the celebrated rock churches in the village of Ivanovo, whose stony chambers carved into steep, cliffside caves reveal stunning medieval frescoes inside; a visit is richly rewarding.

Afterwards, both groups will convene in Ruse before returning to the riverboat. (B/L/D)

There's something special about just "kicking back" during a leisurely morning cruising the Danube, enjoying picture-perfect views of the passing landscapes. Onboard activities throughout your cruise, such as special lectures and presentations, cooking demonstrations or music and dance performances, are an important part of the Tauck river cruising experience. Today, after the riverboat arrives in Vidin, Bulgaria, join us for a walking tour of Vidin's cobblestone streets, including a visit to Baba Vida fortress. (B/L/D)

On another relaxing day aboard your grand European river cruise, sail along the Bulgarian / Romanian border, enjoying great views of the Transylvanian Alps. As you cruise, keep an eye out for a kingly face carved into the Danube's rocky bank on the Romanian side; it's a monument to the 2nd-century Dacian King Decebalus, who defended his kingdom from the invading Romans – and it's the tallest rock sculpture in Europe. Glide through Romania's Kazan Narrows and the Iron Gate of the Danube, a spectacular two-mile-long series of gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains, en route to Serbia. (B/L/D)

Dock in Belgrade, Serbia's eclectic, cosmopolitan capital at the juncture of the Danube and Sava rivers. This morning you'll have a choice of exploring Belgrade on a tour of the city with visits to Tito's Memorial, the formidable Kalemegdan Fortress, views of busy Slavija Square (now one of the city's major squares, but once a large pool where residents hunted wild ducks!), Parliament, Republic Square and City Hall, or, tour New Belgrade by bicycle (guests who wish to participate in this choice must be comfortable on a bicycle in a city environment).

Afterwards, you'll have a choice of spending time on your own in Belgrade or returning to the riverboat, where you'll enjoy some entertainment by Serbian performers. Depart the ship early evening for a special reception and dinner at the White Palace on the grounds of the beautiful Royal Palace of Dedinje in Belgrade, built in the 1920s for the Yugoslavian royal family – HRH Crown Prince Alexander II of Serbia and his family reside there today. Sail on to Croatia overnight. (B/L/D)

Your Danube cruise crosses the border from Serbia to Croatia and arrives in historic Vukovar. Preceded by an onboard lecture on Croatia's turbulent history by a local expert, your tour of this venerable 10th-century city – once showcasing opulent 18th-century Baroque mansions, but now a mix of old and new – poignantly symbolizes the effects of the 1990s war. Visit with a local family who have recently returned to resume their lives in the city after the conflict, as they share homemade refreshments with you in their private home. You'll have some time at leisure in Vukovar before the riverboat continues on to Hungary tonight. (B/L/D)

Arrive in Mohacs this morning for an excursion to Pécs and a tour of its 11th-century cathedral. Here you'll also explore the fascinating Christian Necropolis, a complex dating back to the 4th century that includes underground burial chambers and chapels adorned with early Christian art and frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the 19th century, Pécs was famous worldwide for the exquisite Zsolnay porcelain manufactured here, and your visit includes a stop at the Zsolnay Museum for a look at its stunning examples of Art Nouveau stoneware, tiles and pottery. Visit a winery in Villány for lunch (this region is renowned for its red wines) then return to Mohacs.

Tonight, enjoy a cocktail reception and dinner aboard ship as your riverboat sails toward Budapest. (B/L/D)

Budapest was once two separate cities, Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube River. Sightseeing in Budapest's Buda section today includes the Hungarian Parliament building, a 19th-century neo-Gothic masterpiece on the Danube (when open); Fisherman's Bastion, standing watch like a sentinel over the river; and Matthias Church. Your riverboat spends the evening docked in Budapest. (B/L/D)

Explore the Pest section of the city on a morning sightseeing tour today. Sites include Heroes' Square, bounded by some of the finest architectural works in Hungary; City Park; and the bustling, 19th-century-vintage Central Market Hall, where you can buy practically anything! Enjoy an onboard cocktail reception and a gala dinner in the Compass Rose tonight as your riverboat departs Budapest and cruises on to Bratislava, Slovakia overnight. (B/L/D)

An ancient city with a modern pulse, Slovakia's dynamic capital is home to an Old Town brimming with life – and devoid of cars. Our local expert shares insider anecdotes about Bratislava before you join a walking tour of the cobblestoned city center, the perfect place for ambling. Seventeen centuries of Slovak history are eloquently chronicled in its 13th-century Old Town Hall, Baroque Habsburg-era palaces, the Opera House, Slovak Philharmonic Hall, and St. Martin's Cathedral, site of the coronation of many Hungarian royals. Cruise this afternoon to Vienna, enjoying the passing scenery and shipboard activities.

Tonight, nothing quite compares to the royal treatment you'll experience at a Tauck Exclusive – our private evening in the Palais Ferstel, a Baroque palace in the heart of the city. Welcome champagne and dinner precede a sumptuous dinner and a live musical performance. (B/L/D)

Wake up in Vienna, evoking quintessential images of Old World Europe. Sightseeing today includes your choice of guided visits to the Habsburgs' illustrious Schönbrunn Palace, an architectural masterpiece and Austrian cultural treasure, or the Sisi Museum in the Hofburg, once the Habsburgs' royal palace and now Austria's official presidential residence. Spend the remainder of the day as you please in Vienna, returning to the ship for dinner and onboard entertainment. (B/L/D)

Go ashore in Dürnstein this morning for a choice of activities. You can either go for a walk through the village with your Tauck Director followed, if you like, by a hike to the hilltop ruins of Kuenringerburg – the castle where England's King Richard the Lionhearted was held for ransom during the Crusades – or take a bicycle ride* in the vineyard-covered Wachau Valley.

Later, cruise to Melk for a guided visit to its 900-year-old Benedictine abbey; both its Baroque architecture and river views impress. Return to your riverboat late afternoon; onboard ship tonight, you'll be entertained by a talented musical group. (B/L/D)

After crossing the border from Austria to Germany, dock in the Bavarian town of Passau on the Danube and Inn rivers, whose history dates back to the days of the Roman empire. Today, you have the choice of a walking tour revealing the Baroque treasures of this lovely riverside town, known for its stained glass and its many churches – including St. Stephan's Cathedral, home to the largest pipe organ outside of the U.S., and the biggest cathedral organ in the world (inside cathedral visit may not be available on all departures); a cycling excursion around Passau, suitable for more experienced riders; or a full-day excursion to the lovely Austrian city of Salzburg, birthplace of W.A. Mozart (and setting of The Sound of Music).

This evening, your riverboat departs Passau and continues on to Regensburg. (B/L/D)

With its roots as a Roman encampment on the Danube, the quintessential Bavarian town of Regensburg is home to more than 1,400 original historic buildings. Walking here is a delight and is the only way to view the sights up-close. A local guide will lead the way as you see the town's 12th-century Steinerne Brücke (Germany's oldest surviving stone bridge), the 15th-century Altes Rathaus (Town Hall, once the seat of the Imperial Diet), towering Dom St. Peter, and the remains of the Roman wall. Visit the palatial house of Thurn and Taxis on a private visit, where 1,000 years of history in the complex of buildings include a palace, a Benedictine monastery and a well-preserved gothic cloister.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. (B/L/D)

Today, your riverboat negotiates the Main-Danube Canal, which ultimately links the North Sea with the Black Sea; learn about the canal's history from a local expert during your transit. The idea goes back as far as Charlemagne, but wasn't realized until the canal's completion in the 1990s; pass through 16 locks as the waterway traverses the mountains.

After lunch on the riverboat, arrive in historic Nürnberg. From the center of the German Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries to the site of National Socialist Germans Workers' Party conventions leading into World War II, Nuremberg has had a storied history since it was first documented in 1050. Today, Nuremberg is a hub for tourism and continues to be important industrial center.

Your exploration of this historic city today offers two options; one brings you on a visit Nuremberg's Old Town, including an introductory walking tour through the Medieval fortification walls via Castle terrace to Old Town, passing by Albrecht Dürer House (guests may visit independently after the walking tour), continuing to St. Sebald Church (inside visit if available) and passing by the old City Hall before finishing at the Hauptmarkt; the other, offers a look into Nuremberg, both past and present, viewing sites such as the train terminal, the City Wall, the Opera House, The German National Museum, Courtroom 600, St. Johns Cemetary and the Imperial Castle, each option will finish with a walk through the main market square.

Have dinner aboard the riverboat this evening. (B/L/D)

Perched atop seven hills, Bamberg is home to a magnificent, four-towered Romanesque cathedral from the 13th century; see it, along with more of this charming medieval city's unique architecture and colorful gardens, during a walking tour of Old Town... and take some time to explore as you please. Alternatively, you have the option to partake in a cycling excursion around Bamberg (this option is only for fit and capable cyclists). (B/L/D)

Following brunch, dock late morning in charming Würzburg. Upon arrival, you'll have two choices of sightseeing: visit the town's 18th-century Residenz – a lavish Baroque palace where the town's prince bishops once lived, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – followed by a short guided walk into the Old Town and free time.

Alternatively, depart on an excursion to the nearby town of Rothenburg; nestled on Germany's "Romantic Road," it lives up to its reputation as Europe's "most perfect fairy-tale town." View its Gothic cathedral, towered walls and gabled houses on a walking tour, followed by time at leisure. Spend the evening aboard the riverboat following an early evening departure. (B/L/D)

It is no wonder that river cruising was the favored pastime of royalty throughout the centuries... and you'll revel in the experience on a full day cruise along the picturesque Main. Fortified towns with towering cathedrals dot the lush landscapes along the riverbank... and you'll take pleasure in all that you'll see, learn and savor today. Perhaps you'll visit the spa... or the fitness center... practice your putting on the putting green... or savor a little quiet time... (B/L/D)

Relax and enjoy your riverboat's amenities as you cruise along the Main River, as it transforms into the Rhine River, to the wine-making town of Rüdesheim, part of the Rhine Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site. You have the option to ride a mini train or walk to today's sightseeing excursion, Siegfried's Mechanisches Musikkabinett, an eclectic museum displaying one of the world's largest collections of mechanical musical instruments in a centuries-old castle.

Have lunch in an old-world restaurant, a perfect opportunity to enjoy a taste of regional cuisine, then return to your riverboat for an evening spent crusing. Your Rhine River cruise meanders through the scenic Lorelei Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, en route to Köln (Cologne). (B/L/D)

First up today – a morning visit to Köln (Cologne). Originally founded by the Romans, it is one of the oldest settlements in Germany. Visit the great Gothic cathedral, Kölner Dom, with a local guide (may be unavailable some holidays) then spend some time exploring as you please; Köln is a blend of sophistication and tradition. Return to the riverboat to sail to Amsterdam; your day concludes with a Chef's Signature Dinner in the Compass Rose. (B/L/D)

Amsterdam... the name itself conjures up images of the Dutch capital's myriad cultural treasures, from gabled houses, markets and cafés to awe-inspiring museums housing a treasure trove of world-famous art – and it's all yours to enjoy today. Your guided tour of the famed Rijksmuseum is really inspiring – a firsthand look at Rembrandt's masterpiece The Night Watch is like meeting the artist himself, and you'll love seeing acclaimed works by other well-known "Old Dutch Masters" including Vermeer and Hals.

See the city's network of concentric, tree-lined 17th-century canals and view of Amsterdam's blend of architectural styles – they date all the way back to medieval times – on a private sightseeing cruise by canal boat; you'll get a unique taste of daily life in this easygoing city today. A farewell reception followed by dinner makes your last night on the riverboat memorable. (B/L/D)

Tour ends: Amsterdam, Netherlands. Disembark in Amsterdam; a transfer is included from the riverboat to Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport or Central Station. Allow 3 hours for departure flight check-in. A transfer will also be provided to the airport for guests enjoying a stay at Tauck's selected Amsterdam hotel following their cruise. (B)

Tour begins: 6:00 PM, JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel. A transfer is included from Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport to the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel in the heart of the city, ideally located adjacent to Bucharest's monumental Palace of Parliament. Join us this evening for a Tauck Exclusive at the Bragadiru Palace (a.k.a the Palace of Culture).

Named after founder Dumitru Marinescu Bragadiru, one of Romania's most important industrialists, the palace was originally used as a brewery and a performance hall before being confiscated in the 1940's (later returning to the descendants of Bragadiru in the early 2000's). Attend a special welcome reception at the palace, complete with musical entertainment. Stay Three Nights: JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel (D)

A choice of sightseeing today echoes the legacy of 15th-century Romanian prince Vlad Tepes (a.k.a. "Vlad the Impaler"), thought to be the historical model for Bram Stoker's Dracula. You may choose to take a full-day excursion to Transylvania's 14th-century Bran Castle, which Tepes once used as a fortress during his military campaigns; the excursion includes a visit to the castle and free time in Bran.

Alternatively, you can travel on a full-day excursion into the Carpathian Mountains to the mountain resort town of Sinaia and visit a nearby castle. Or, drive to Targoviste to visit the formal royal court of Vlad the Tepes a.k.a. Dracula. Return to Bucharest for free time. If you wish, have dinner at the hotel tonight, or choose to enjoy a lunch or dinner at the hotel at another time during your stay. (B/L/D)

Explore more of Romania's capital on a morning sightseeing tour with our local guides, seeing such sights as Revolution Square and the Triumphal Arch, and ending in Bucharest's Old Town. The rest of the day and evening are yours to spend pursuing what interests you most in this fascinating city. (B)

Before embarking your riverboat today, drive to Romania's popular Black Sea coast – first to the popular resort of Mamaia for lunch and some "beach time," then on to the port city of Constanta. Here, in what was originally the ancient Greek colony of Tomis, you'll view numerous Greek and Roman antiquities, an Art-Nouveau casino, and a monument to the Roman poet Ovid, who spent years in exile here. Board your riverboat in Constanta to launch your unforgettable cruise across the ancient heart of Europe. Stay 21 Nights: aboard your luxurious Tauck river ship (B/L/D)

Your lower Danube cruise continues in Bulgaria; largely off limits during four centuries of Ottoman rule and decades behind the Iron Curtain, the country's rich natural beauty and history is yours to discover today.

Disembark in Ruse – often referred to as "Little Vienna" for its Art-Nouveau homes, Austro-Hungarian architecture and lively cafés – for a choice of sightseeing today. You may join us for a guided walking tour of the Basarabov rock church, and its easily-accessible chapel, or alternatively, embark on a vigorous hike to the celebrated rock churches in the village of Ivanovo, whose stony chambers carved into steep, cliffside caves reveal stunning medieval frescoes inside; a visit is richly rewarding.

Afterwards, both groups will convene in Ruse before returning to the riverboat. (B/L/D)

There's something special about just "kicking back" during a leisurely morning cruising the Danube, enjoying picture-perfect views of the passing landscapes. Onboard activities throughout your cruise, such as special lectures and presentations, cooking demonstrations or music and dance performances, are an important part of the Tauck river cruising experience. Today, after the riverboat arrives in Vidin, Bulgaria, join us for a walking tour of Vidin's cobblestone streets, including a visit to Baba Vida fortress. (B/L/D)

On another relaxing day aboard your grand European river cruise, sail along the Bulgarian / Romanian border, enjoying great views of the Transylvanian Alps. As you cruise, keep an eye out for a kingly face carved into the Danube's rocky bank on the Romanian side; it's a monument to the 2nd-century Dacian King Decebalus, who defended his kingdom from the invading Romans – and it's the tallest rock sculpture in Europe. Glide through Romania's Kazan Narrows and the Iron Gate of the Danube, a spectacular two-mile-long series of gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains, en route to Serbia. (B/L/D)

Dock in Belgrade, Serbia's eclectic, cosmopolitan capital at the juncture of the Danube and Sava rivers. This morning you'll have a choice of exploring Belgrade on a tour of the city with visits to Tito's Memorial, the formidable Kalemegdan Fortress, views of busy Slavija Square (now one of the city's major squares, but once a large pool where residents hunted wild ducks!), Parliament, Republic Square and City Hall, or, tour New Belgrade by bicycle (guests who wish to participate in this choice must be comfortable on a bicycle in a city environment).

Afterwards, you'll have a choice of spending time on your own in Belgrade or returning to the riverboat, where you'll enjoy some entertainment by Serbian performers. Depart the ship early evening for a special reception and dinner at the White Palace on the grounds of the beautiful Royal Palace of Dedinje in Belgrade, built in the 1920s for the Yugoslavian royal family – HRH Crown Prince Alexander II of Serbia and his family reside there today. Sail on to Croatia overnight. (B/L/D)

Your Danube cruise crosses the border from Serbia to Croatia and arrives in historic Vukovar. Preceded by an onboard lecture on Croatia's turbulent history by a local expert, your tour of this venerable 10th-century city – once showcasing opulent 18th-century Baroque mansions, but now a mix of old and new – poignantly symbolizes the effects of the 1990s war. Visit with a local family who have recently returned to resume their lives in the city after the conflict, as they share homemade refreshments with you in their private home. You'll have some time at leisure in Vukovar before the riverboat continues on to Hungary tonight. (B/L/D)

Arrive in Mohacs this morning for an excursion to Pécs and a tour of its 11th-century cathedral. Here you'll also explore the fascinating Christian Necropolis, a complex dating back to the 4th century that includes underground burial chambers and chapels adorned with early Christian art and frescoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the 19th century, Pécs was famous worldwide for the exquisite Zsolnay porcelain manufactured here, and your visit includes a stop at the Zsolnay Museum for a look at its stunning examples of Art Nouveau stoneware, tiles and pottery. Visit a winery in Villány for lunch (this region is renowned for its red wines) then return to Mohacs.

Tonight, enjoy a cocktail reception and dinner aboard ship as your riverboat sails toward Budapest. (B/L/D)

Budapest was once two separate cities, Buda and Pest, divided by the Danube River. Sightseeing in Budapest's Buda section today includes the Hungarian Parliament building, a 19th-century neo-Gothic masterpiece on the Danube (when open); Fisherman's Bastion, standing watch like a sentinel over the river; and Matthias Church. Your riverboat spends the evening docked in Budapest. (B/L/D)

Explore the Pest section of the city on a morning sightseeing tour today. Sites include Heroes' Square, bounded by some of the finest architectural works in Hungary; City Park; and the bustling, 19th-century-vintage Central Market Hall, where you can buy practically anything! Enjoy an onboard cocktail reception and a gala dinner in the Compass Rose tonight as your riverboat departs Budapest and cruises on to Bratislava, Slovakia overnight. (B/L/D)

An ancient city with a modern pulse, Slovakia's dynamic capital is home to an Old Town brimming with life – and devoid of cars. Our local expert shares insider anecdotes about Bratislava before you join a walking tour of the cobblestoned city center, the perfect place for ambling. Seventeen centuries of Slovak history are eloquently chronicled in its 13th-century Old Town Hall, Baroque Habsburg-era palaces, the Opera House, Slovak Philharmonic Hall, and St. Martin's Cathedral, site of the coronation of many Hungarian royals. Cruise this afternoon to Vienna, enjoying the passing scenery and shipboard activities.

Tonight, nothing quite compares to the royal treatment you'll experience at a Tauck Exclusive – our private evening in the Palais Ferstel, a Baroque palace in the heart of the city. Welcome champagne and dinner precede a sumptuous dinner and a live musical performance. (B/L/D)

Wake up in Vienna, evoking quintessential images of Old World Europe. Sightseeing today includes your choice of guided visits to the Habsburgs' illustrious Schönbrunn Palace, an architectural masterpiece and Austrian cultural treasure, or the Sisi Museum in the Hofburg, once the Habsburgs' royal palace and now Austria's official presidential residence. Spend the remainder of the day as you please in Vienna, returning to the ship for dinner and onboard entertainment. (B/L/D)

Go ashore in Dürnstein this morning for a choice of activities. You can either go for a walk through the village with your Tauck Director followed, if you like, by a hike to the hilltop ruins of Kuenringerburg – the castle where England's King Richard the Lionhearted was held for ransom during the Crusades – or take a bicycle ride* in the vineyard-covered Wachau Valley.

Later, cruise to Melk for a guided visit to its 900-year-old Benedictine abbey; both its Baroque architecture and river views impress. Return to your riverboat late afternoon; onboard ship tonight, you'll be entertained by a talented musical group. (B/L/D)

After crossing the border from Austria to Germany, dock in the Bavarian town of Passau on the Danube and Inn rivers, whose history dates back to the days of the Roman empire. Today, you have the choice of a walking tour revealing the Baroque treasures of this lovely riverside town, known for its stained glass and its many churches – including St. Stephan's Cathedral, home to the largest pipe organ outside of the U.S., and the biggest cathedral organ in the world (inside cathedral visit may not be available on all departures); a cycling excursion around Passau, suitable for more experienced riders; or a full-day excursion to the lovely Austrian city of Salzburg, birthplace of W.A. Mozart (and setting of The Sound of Music).

This evening, your riverboat departs Passau and continues on to Regensburg. (B/L/D)

With its roots as a Roman encampment on the Danube, the quintessential Bavarian town of Regensburg is home to more than 1,400 original historic buildings. Walking here is a delight and is the only way to view the sights up-close. A local guide will lead the way as you see the town's 12th-century Steinerne Brücke (Germany's oldest surviving stone bridge), the 15th-century Altes Rathaus (Town Hall, once the seat of the Imperial Diet), towering Dom St. Peter, and the remains of the Roman wall. Visit the palatial house of Thurn and Taxis on a private visit, where 1,000 years of history in the complex of buildings include a palace, a Benedictine monastery and a well-preserved gothic cloister.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. (B/L/D)

Today, your riverboat negotiates the Main-Danube Canal, which ultimately links the North Sea with the Black Sea; learn about the canal's history from a local expert during your transit. The idea goes back as far as Charlemagne, but wasn't realized until the canal's completion in the 1990s; pass through 16 locks as the waterway traverses the mountains.

After lunch on the riverboat, arrive in historic Nürnberg. From the center of the German Renaissance in the 15th and 16th centuries to the site of National Socialist Germans Workers' Party conventions leading into World War II, Nuremberg has had a storied history since it was first documented in 1050. Today, Nuremberg is a hub for tourism and continues to be important industrial center.

Your exploration of this historic city today offers two options; one brings you on a visit Nuremberg's Old Town, including an introductory walking tour through the Medieval fortification walls via Castle terrace to Old Town, passing by Albrecht Dürer House (guests may visit independently after the walking tour), continuing to St. Sebald Church (inside visit if available) and passing by the old City Hall before finishing at the Hauptmarkt; the other, offers a look into Nuremberg, both past and present, viewing sites such as the train terminal, the City Wall, the Opera House, The German National Museum, Courtroom 600, St. Johns Cemetary and the Imperial Castle, each option will finish with a walk through the main market square.

Have dinner aboard the riverboat this evening. (B/L/D)

Perched atop seven hills, Bamberg is home to a magnificent, four-towered Romanesque cathedral from the 13th century; see it, along with more of this charming medieval city's unique architecture and colorful gardens, during a walking tour of Old Town... and take some time to explore as you please. Alternatively, you have the option to partake in a cycling excursion around Bamberg (this option is only for fit and capable cyclists). (B/L/D)

Following brunch, dock late morning in charming Würzburg. Upon arrival, you'll have two choices of sightseeing: visit the town's 18th-century Residenz – a lavish Baroque palace where the town's prince bishops once lived, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – followed by a short guided walk into the Old Town and free time.

Alternatively, depart on an excursion to the nearby town of Rothenburg; nestled on Germany's "Romantic Road," it lives up to its reputation as Europe's "most perfect fairy-tale town." View its Gothic cathedral, towered walls and gabled houses on a walking tour, followed by time at leisure. Spend the evening aboard the riverboat following an early evening departure. (B/L/D)

It is no wonder that river cruising was the favored pastime of royalty throughout the centuries... and you'll revel in the experience on a full day cruise along the picturesque Main. Fortified towns with towering cathedrals dot the lush landscapes along the riverbank... and you'll take pleasure in all that you'll see, learn and savor today. Perhaps you'll visit the spa... or the fitness center... practice your putting on the putting green... or savor a little quiet time... (B/L/D)

Relax and enjoy your riverboat's amenities as you cruise along the Main River, as it transforms into the Rhine River, to the wine-making town of Rüdesheim, part of the Rhine Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site. You have the option to ride a mini train or walk to today's sightseeing excursion, Siegfried's Mechanisches Musikkabinett, an eclectic museum displaying one of the world's largest collections of mechanical musical instruments in a centuries-old castle.

Have lunch in an old-world restaurant, a perfect opportunity to enjoy a taste of regional cuisine, then return to your riverboat for an evening spent crusing. Your Rhine River cruise meanders through the scenic Lorelei Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, en route to Köln (Cologne). (B/L/D)

First up today – a morning visit to Köln (Cologne). Originally founded by the Romans, it is one of the oldest settlements in Germany. Visit the great Gothic cathedral, Kölner Dom, with a local guide (may be unavailable some holidays) then spend some time exploring as you please; Köln is a blend of sophistication and tradition. Return to the riverboat to sail to Amsterdam; your day concludes with a Chef's Signature Dinner in the Compass Rose. (B/L/D)

Amsterdam... the name itself conjures up images of the Dutch capital's myriad cultural treasures, from gabled houses, markets and cafés to awe-inspiring museums housing a treasure trove of world-famous art – and it's all yours to enjoy today. Your guided tour of the famed Rijksmuseum is really inspiring – a firsthand look at Rembrandt's masterpiece The Night Watch is like meeting the artist himself, and you'll love seeing acclaimed works by other well-known "Old Dutch Masters" including Vermeer and Hals.

See the city's network of concentric, tree-lined 17th-century canals and view of Amsterdam's blend of architectural styles – they date all the way back to medieval times – on a private sightseeing cruise by canal boat; you'll get a unique taste of daily life in this easygoing city today. A farewell reception followed by dinner makes your last night on the riverboat memorable. (B/L/D)

Tour ends: Amsterdam, Netherlands. Disembark in Amsterdam; a transfer is included from the riverboat to Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport or Central Station. Allow 3 hours for departure flight check-in. A transfer will also be provided to the airport for guests enjoying a stay at Tauck's selected Amsterdam hotel following their cruise. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • A private Imperial Evening at a traditional palace in Vienna featuring dinner and Viennese performers
  • Reception and dinner at Bragadiru Palace in Bucharest
  • Visit with a Croatian family in their private home in Vukovar
  • Private piano performance on a visit to the Béla Bartók Memorial House in Budapest
  • A visit to the city of Pécs in Hungary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Passage through the Iron Gate on the Danube River
  • Choice of Romanian excursions exploring the story of Vlad Tepes, 15th-century inspiration for Bram Stoker's "Dracula"
  • In Amsterdam, a guided tour of the famed Rijksmuseum, home to many masterpieces
  • Day exploring Nürnberg, the walled medieval town whose history is forever intertwined with World War II
  • Choice of sightseeing in Vienna – a visit to the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments in the Hofburg or to Schönbrunn Palace
  • Memorable visits to Melk Abbey, Kölner Dom, and Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett in Rüdesheim

  • All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director
  • Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at AUD $8,340
  • Guided sightseeing in the historic European capitals of Bratislava, Slovakia, and Budapest
  • Three nights in Bucharest at a hotel with an ideal location next to the Parliament
  • Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
  • Some meals in local restaurants; porterage, and applicable fuel surcharge

  • 69 included meals (24 breakfasts, 22 lunches, 23 dinners)
  • Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks

  • Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.

  • A private Imperial Evening at a traditional palace in Vienna featuring dinner and Viennese performers
  • Reception and dinner at Bragadiru Palace in Bucharest
  • Visit with a Croatian family in their private home in Vukovar
  • Private piano performance on a visit to the Béla Bartók Memorial House in Budapest
  • A visit to the city of Pécs in Hungary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Passage through the Iron Gate on the Danube River
  • Choice of Romanian excursions exploring the story of Vlad Tepes, 15th-century inspiration for Bram Stoker's "Dracula"
  • In Amsterdam, a guided tour of the famed Rijksmuseum, home to many masterpieces
  • Day exploring Nürnberg, the walled medieval town whose history is forever intertwined with World War II
  • Choice of sightseeing in Vienna – a visit to the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments in the Hofburg or to Schönbrunn Palace
  • Memorable visits to Melk Abbey, Kölner Dom, and Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett in Rüdesheim

  • All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director
  • Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at AUD $8,340
  • Guided sightseeing in the historic European capitals of Bratislava, Slovakia, and Budapest
  • Three nights in Bucharest at a hotel with an ideal location next to the Parliament
  • Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted
  • Some meals in local restaurants; porterage, and applicable fuel surcharge

  • 69 included meals (24 breakfasts, 22 lunches, 23 dinners)
  • Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks

  • Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
  • Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Play Youtube Video

Deck Plans

 
Category 1
 
Category 2
Emerald Deck (Level 1)
 
Category 4
 
Category 6
Ruby Deck (Level 2)
 
Category 3
 
Category 5
 
Category 7
Diamond Deck (Level 3)
Sun Deck

Cabins

Category 1

  • 150 sq. ft
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • Two windows, refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom
  • Telephone, safe and individual climate control, onboard wi-fi available

Category 2

  • 183 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 3

  • 150 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 4

  • 183 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closets with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 5

  • 183 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 6

  • 225 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 7

  • 300 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Pull-out sleeping sofa, two club chairs & coffee table, a desk and a TV credenza, Walk-in closet and dresser, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private Bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • Two floor-to-ceiling French Balconies with one sliding door that opens, Quad cabin made possible by pullout couch, Coffee maker plus mini-bar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, Breakfast room service, Iron plus ironing board, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control

Deck Plans

 
Category 1
 
Category 2
Emerald Deck (Level 1)
 
Category 4
 
Category 6
Ruby Deck (Level 2)
 
Category 3
 
Category 5
 
Category 7
Diamond Deck (Level 3)
Sun Deck

Cabins

Category 1

  • 150 sq. ft
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • Two windows, refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom
  • Telephone, safe and individual climate control, onboard wi-fi available

Category 2

  • 183 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 3

  • 150 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 4

  • 183 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closets with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 5

  • 183 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 6

  • 225 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Two chairs plus a desk, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony with one sliding door that opens, Refrigerator stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily
  • 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom

Category 7

  • 300 sq. ft.
  • 2 European twin beds that can slide together
  • Pull-out sleeping sofa, two club chairs & coffee table, a desk and a TV credenza, Walk-in closet and dresser, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows
  • Private Bathroom with shower
  • Molton Brown toiletries, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
  • Two floor-to-ceiling French Balconies with one sliding door that opens, Quad cabin made possible by pullout couch, Coffee maker plus mini-bar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily,
  • 32" LED TV, Breakfast room service, Iron plus ironing board, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control

Brochure

European River Cruising

Tauck European River Cruising (2024)

We’re in the business of fulfilling travel dreams, and your river cruise experience begins from the moment you come aboard. Tauck’s custom-built riverboats are designed for fewer passengers and more personal space than comparative, same-sized riverboats. With a thoughtful use of space throughout, our goal was to provide larger, more spacious cabins,...more fewer crowds, and more personalized service.

Availability

Exclusive Savings
Thursday 04 Jul 2024
Sunday 28 Jul 2024
Ship Name MS Treasures
From: $20,280
  Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Thursday 15 Aug 2024
Sunday 08 Sep 2024
Ship Name MS Esprit
From: $21,720
  Enquire
Exclusive Solo Offer
Thursday 04 Jul 2024
Sunday 28 Jul 2024
Ship Name MS Treasures
From: $20,280
  Enquire
Exclusive Solo Offer
Thursday 15 Aug 2024
Sunday 08 Sep 2024
Ship Name MS Esprit
From: $21,720
  Enquire
Exclusive Savings
Thursday 14 Aug 2025
Sunday 07 Sep 2025
Ship Name MS Treasures
From: $23,170
  Enquire
Exclusive Solo Offer
Thursday 14 Aug 2025
Sunday 07 Sep 2025
Ship Name MS Treasures
From: $23,170
  Enquire
Note
Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.

Cabin Upgrades Optional cabin upgrades. Upgrades priced per person

Cat 1  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Cat 2 $ 940
Cat 3 $ 1,520
Cat 4 $ 4,210
Cat 5 $ 6,230
Cat 6 $ 6,810
Cat 7 $ 9,270

Cat 1  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Cat 2 $ 940
Cat 3 $ 1,520
Cat 4 $ 4,210
Cat 5 $ 6,230
Cat 6 $ 6,810
Cat 7 $ 9,270
Note
Upgrade prices shown are per person. Upgrade prices can vary depending on the departure date & the month of travel. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will confirm and include the upgrade price in your quote.

Cabin Upgrades Optional cabin upgrades. Upgrades priced per person

Cat 1  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Cat 2 $ 980
Cat 3 $ 1,590
Cat 4 $ 4,410
Cat 5 $ 6,510
Cat 6 $ 7,120
Cat 7 $ 9,690
Note
Upgrade prices shown are per person. Upgrade prices can vary depending on the departure date & the month of travel. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will confirm and include the upgrade price in your quote.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Tauck. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Tauck. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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