Blue Danube

The Blue Danube River 5* River Cruise

Cruise line

Cruise ship
MS Riviera Radiance
Duration
7 Nights
Departure
24th October 2027
Cruise Code

RIV-DAN1

Inside

Original price was: £2221.Current price is: £1999.pp

Outside

£1999pp

Balcony

£2599pp

Suite

2999pp

Holiday Overview

Embark this 7-night Blue Danube river cruise, where history, culture and scenic beauty unfold at a relaxed pace. Your journey begins in Budapest, with its grand architecture and vibrant atmosphere, before cruising to Esztergom, once Hungary’s royal capital, dominated by its impressive basilica.

Continue to Bratislava to explore its charming old town, then sail on to Dürnstein and Melk, where a visit to the magnificent abbey is a highlight. In Linz, enjoy a guided tour or an optional visit to Salzburg.

In Vienna, discover imperial landmarks and enjoy a classical recital. Returning to Budapest, your journey concludes with a guided tour and traditional folklore show. On board, enjoy elegant surroundings, attentive service and included excursions throughout.

What’s Included

  • ✔7-Night full board cruise
  • ✔Drinks included
  • ✔9 included experiences
  • ✔Gratuities included
  • ✔Flights, and luggage included
  • ✔Transfers throughout
  • ✔Wi-Fi included
  • ✔Expert cruise director and cruise host throughout
  • ✔All port fees & taxes covered
  • ✔ATOL Protected
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Your Itinerary

Day 1 – Budapest

Day 1 – Budapest

Board the ship in Budapest. Once aboard spend sometime exploring both sides of the Danube, beginning in Buda’s Castle District. Wander past the fairy-tale Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and enjoy panoramic views. For the active, hike up Castle Hill. In the afternoon, discover Pest’s highlights, including the grand Hungarian Parliament, Heroes’ Square, and the poignant “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial.

Day 2 – Esztergom

Day 2 – Esztergom

You arrive in historic Esztergom, once Hungary’s royal capital, for a guided tour of its grand neoclassical basilica overlooking the Danube. After exploring the town’s castle and atmospheric old churches, you enjoy a peaceful afternoon sailing toward Bratislava, taking in the scenery as the river carries you onward.

Day 3 – Bratislava

Day 3 – Bratislava

Explore Bratislava on a guided tour of its beautifully restored Old Town, from St. Martin’s Cathedral to the Primate’s Palace and lively Main Square. Wander past quirky statues and charming cafés before enjoying a relaxing afternoon sailing through Lower Austria towards Dürnstein.

Day 4 – Dürnstein & Melk

Day 4 – Dürnstein & Melk

Explore Dürnstein, with its iconic ice-blue tower, charming streets, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. In Melk, visit the stunning Baroque abbey, admire its ornate interiors, grand library, and frescoes, and stroll the gardens while enjoying panoramic views of the Danube and surrounding Wachau Valley.

Day 5 – Salzburg or Linz

Day 5 – Salzburg or Linz

Choose a guided tour of Linz’s baroque Old Town, its grand main square and riverside museums, with free time to explore or ride the scenic Pöstlingbergbahn. Or head to Salzburg for a guided tour of its elegant Old Town, fortress skyline and Mozart heritage, with time to wander its palaces and gardens at leisure.

Day 6 – Vienna

Day 6 – Vienna

Discover Vienna on a panoramic tour along the Ringstrasse, with the option to explore the elegant Old Town on foot. See imperial landmarks from St. Stephen’s Cathedral to the Hofburg, then enjoy a free afternoon to wander palaces, parks or classic coffee houses. This evening, savour the Chef’s Dinner followed by a live classical recital.

Day 7 – Budapest

Day 7 – Budapest

Cruise through Hungary’s scenic Danube Bend, past Visegrád and Szentendre, enjoying castle ruins, churches, and riverside forests. In Budapest, explore Castle Hill, the neo-Gothic Parliament, and historic streets on a panoramic coach or active walking tour. Finish the day with a traditional Hungarian folklore show onboard, relaxing after a day of culture, history, and stunning river views.

Day 8 – Return Home

Day 8 – Return Home

Your journey concludes in Budapest with Riviera Travel. After a final breakfast on board, it’s time to say goodbye to your fellow guests and crew. Disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight home, taking with you wonderful memories of your river cruise.

Holiday Information

Sail along the scenic Danube, exploring historic cities, charming towns, and stunning landmarks from Budapest to Vienna. Enjoy guided tours, cultural highlights, and onboard entertainment, including classical music and traditional folklore performances.

  • ✔Budapest: Guided tour of Castle Hill with views of the Parliament Building; traditional Hungarian folklore show onboard.
  • ✔Esztergom: Visit the extraordinary basilica.
  • ✔Bratislava: Explore the 17th-century castle and charming old town.
  • ✔Dürnstein: See the ice-blue tower and historic castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned.
  • ✔Melk: Tour the magnificent Melk Abbey.
  • ✔Linz & Salzburg: Discover Linz’s baroque charm or explore Salzburg’s Hohensalzburg Fortress, Hellbrunn Palace, and Mirabell Gardens.
  • ✔Vienna: Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg; enjoy a live classical quartet recital with city views.
  • ✔Onboard Experience: Elegant surroundings, attentive service, and included excursions throughout the cruise.

Riviera Travel

Enjoy a refined river cruise experience with Riviera Travel, a trusted name in European touring for over 40 years. Their thoughtfully crafted journeys blend comfort, culture and a relaxed pace, offering an effortless way to explore iconic rivers and historic cities. Step aboard a contemporary ship and settle into your stylish cabin, many with French balconies for uninterrupted views. Savour regionally inspired dining, attentive service and a friendly onboard ambience. With expert-led guided tours included in every destination, you’ll gain deeper insight into the places you visit. Riviera Travel brings together quality, value and enriching experiences, creating a well-balanced and enjoyable way to discover Europe’s most beautiful waterways.

Riviera Radiance

Riviera Radiance is designed for comfort and style, offering an intimate and relaxed atmosphere for a personalised river cruising experience. Public spaces include a welcoming lounge, an elegant restaurant, and an open-air sun deck perfect for soaking up the ever-changing riverside scenery. Cabins are thoughtfully appointed with plush bedding, modern bathrooms, and ample storage, while many feature French balconies, allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted views from your room. With its contemporary design, tasteful décor, and well-planned layout, Riviera Radiance provides a calm and inviting base as you explore Europe’s historic waterways.

MS Geoffrey Chaucer

MS Geoffrey Chaucer combines classic elegance with contemporary comfort, creating a welcoming setting for a relaxing river cruise. On board, you’ll find a stylish lounge and bar, a spacious restaurant serving regional cuisine, and a sun deck ideal for admiring Europe’s scenic waterways. Well-appointed cabins feature comfortable furnishings, modern bathrooms and generous storage, while many include French balconies or outside views. Its refined décor and thoughtfully designed spaces ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey throughout your cruise.

MS William Wordsworth

MS William Wordsworth offers a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere, designed to make every river cruise as comfortable as it is memorable. Guests can unwind in the panoramic lounge, dine in the elegant restaurant, or take in the passing scenery from the spacious sun deck. Bright, well-equipped cabins provide modern amenities, comfortable bedding and ample storage, with many featuring French balconies for uninterrupted river views. Blending contemporary style with attentive design, MS William Wordsworth is an inviting base for discovering Europe’s iconic rivers.

Entertainment on the three ships

Evenings on board are wonderfully relaxed, offering gentle entertainment that complements your day of exploring. Unwind with live music in the lounge, enjoy destination-themed talks, or take part in light, sociable activities that never feel intrusive. As the sun sets, the top deck becomes a serene retreat, perfect for a quiet drink, stargazing or simply watching the river drift by. The atmosphere throughout the ship remains warm and easy-going, giving you space to meet fellow travellers or simply reflect on the day’s discoveries. Entertainment is understated and refined, perfectly matching the calm, unhurried rhythm of river cruising.

Dining on the three ships

Onboard dining combines regional inspiration with freshly prepared dishes to create a memorable culinary experience. Breakfasts are generous and varied, while lunches offer both lighter options and heartier choices to suit every appetite. Dinner features a selection of multi-course meals showcasing local flavours, complemented by attentive service in a relaxed, elegant setting. Drinks are included with lunch and dinner, allowing you to enjoy your meal without concern. Each dining experience is designed to be as leisurely or sociable as you wish, ensuring every meal is a highlight of your day.

Recreation on the three ships

Life on board each ship offers the perfect balance of relaxation and discovery as you sail Europe’s most scenic waterways. Take in the ever-changing views from the spacious sun deck or unwind in the stylish lounges with a book, a drink or good company. Between immersive shore excursions, there’s plenty of time to relax and enjoy the peaceful rhythm of river cruising. Whether you’re watching the scenery drift by or socialising with fellow travellers, every day is designed to be as leisurely or active as you choose.

Date Departing from Accommodation Price WAS (£) Price NOW (£)
04-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,749
05-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,599
06-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,599
11-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,899
12-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,649
13-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,249
19-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,554 2,299
20-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,554 2,299
27-Apr-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,549
10-May-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,849
17-May-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,899
18-May-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,749
24-May-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,943 2,649
25-May-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,943 2,649
30-May-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,949
01-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,943 2,649
06-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 3,166 2,849
08-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,949
13-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 3,049
14-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,943 2,943
20-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 3,221 3,221
21-Jun-27 London Heathrow  MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,943 2,943
27-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 3,166 3,166
28-Jun-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,943 2,649
29-Jun-27 London Heathrow  MS William Wordsworth 2,888 2,599
04-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 3,110 2,799
05-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,832 2,549
06-Jul-27 London Heathrow  MS William Wordsworth 2,777 2,499
11-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,943 2,649
12-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,721 2,449
13-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,721 2,599
18-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,888 2,399
19-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,666 2,549
20-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,666 2,249
25-Jul-27 London Heathrow  MS Riviera Radiance 2,832 2,249
26-Jul-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,499 2,349
27-Jul-27 London Heathrow  MS William Wordsworth 2,499 2,349
01-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,610 2,349
02-Aug-27 London Heathrow  MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,349
03-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,443 2,199
08-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,610 2,349
09-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,443 2,199
10-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,443 2,199
15-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,549
16-Aug-27 London Heathrow  MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,249
17-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,443 2,199
22-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,549
23-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,610 2,349
24-Aug-27 London Heathrow  MS William Wordsworth 2,874 2,299
29-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,777 2,499
30-Aug-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,999 2,399
31-Aug-27 London Heathrow  MS William Wordsworth 2,777 2,499
03-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Reflection 2,749
06-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,888 2,599
07-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,749
10-Sep-27 London Heathrow  MS Riviera Reflection 2,941 2,649
13-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,943 2,649
14-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,943 2,649
19-Sep-27 London Heathrow  MS Riviera Radiance 3,054 2,749
20-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,999 2,699
21-Sep-27 London Heathrow  MS William Wordsworth 2,999 2,699
23-Sep-27 London Heathrow  MS Riviera Resplendence 3,166 2,849
26-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 3,166 2,849
27-Sep-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,888 2,500
28-Sep-27 London Heathrow  MS William Wordsworth 2,888 2,599
01-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Reflection 3,110 2,799
04-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,666 2,399
05-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,666 2,399
08-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Reflection 2,943 2,649
11-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,554 2,299
12-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,443 2,199
17-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Radiance 2,874 2,299
18-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS Geoffrey Chaucer 2,388 2,149
19-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS William Wordsworth 2,332 2,099
24-Oct-27 London Heathrow  MS Riviera Radiance 2,221 1,999
29-Oct-27 London Heathrow MS Riviera Reflection 2,277 2,049

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