AFFORDABLE LUXURY
Grand European River Cruise
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What's included
- Accommodation based on twin share room
- Cruise as per itinerary
- Entrance tickets to sites on tour
- Escorted tour
- Hotel taxes and service charges
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Porterage (up to two bags per person)
- Professionally guided local tours
- Airport transfers
- Any items or services not specified in the itinerary
- Cruise gratuities
- Cruise transfers
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- International flights
- Medical and emergency insurance
- Optional tours and activities
- Personal expenses
- Visa arrangements
Tour overview
Book early to save on a bucket list European river cruise in 2023 and we have special rates to upgrade to a French Balcony cabin!
River cruising offers the unique opportunity to visit Europe’s historic cities and charming villages as you sail the world’s most beautiful waterways. Cruise aboard a sleek, modern floating hotel, equipped with features and amenities to make your voyage comfortable and carefree.
Cruise the winding canals of Amsterdam. Sail the legendary Rhine to Cologne. Marvel at the visible history of Nuremberg, the medieval city of Regensburg and explore 2500-year-old Passau. Choose to join the optional tour to picturesque Salzburg. Tour the historic Benedictine Abbey in Melk, take in the stunning palaces of Vienna, experience the young and colourful city of Bratislava and view the medieval architecture of Budapest. Explore all that these great cities have to offer.
SEE THE BROCHURE
Early Bird Sale
Book our special river cruise sale before it’s sold out!
Outside cabin with window – Normally $6099pp – Now $5099 per person for a limited time!
French Balcony cabin with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors – Normally $7299pp –Â Now from $6299 per person
The lowest price departure in 2023: 20 May*
*Prices are per person, based on twin share. This special is subject to availability and can be withdrawn at any time. Prices will be confirmed at the time of booking. Departure on 20 May 2023 starts in Budapest. Please contact us for cruise options at other times of the year.
Inclusions at a glance
- 14 nights outside cabin in Category E – ask about upgrading to a French Balcony
- First Class cruise aboard Monarch Princess, Monarch Duchess or Monarch Countess
- River port charges of US$380 per person
- Cruise porterage
- 41 meals: 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 14 dinners
- Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise
- Services of local guides in all major cities
- Shore excursions per itinerary
- Entrance fees per itinerary
- Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
Special features
- See magnificent panoramic views of Budapest from atop Fisherman’s Bastion
- Tour romantic Vienna with its legendary opulence and elegance
- In Melk, join a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey
- Marvel at the beautiful churches and ancient stone bridges in Regensburg
- Cruise the Main-Danube Canal, considered a marvel of modern engineering
- Walk in Bamberg’s medieval centre with its 11th century Romanesque cathedral
- View the mighty Lorelei Rock named for the siren “Lorelei” rising vertically from the waters
- Sail on the legendary Rhine to Cologne, capital of the Rhineland
- In Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals
River Cruise features & amenities
- Gala Welcome Dinner and Farewell Dinner
- Wine and beer with dinners
- Locally inspired recipes
- Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
- Late night snack
- Complimentary Wi-Fi access in public areas
- Self-serve coffee and tea station
- Lounge serving premium spirits
- Fitness centre
- Non-smoking ship interior
- Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English by licensed guides
- DAY 1
- DAY 2
- DAY 3
- DAY 4
- DAY 5
- DAY 6
- DAY 7
- DAY 8
- DAY 9
- DAY 10
- DAY 11
- DAY 12
- DAY 13
- DAY 14
- DAY 15
Arrive in Amsterdam
Welcome to Amsterdam, Holland's sophisticated and modern capital. Make your way to the port. After arrival formalities, rest and relax on board, or begin your discovery of the many cultural sites this city has to offer. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy a gala Welcome Dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Dinner
Amsterdam City Tour
Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. View the Royal Palace on Amsterdam's Dam Square, the Queen's official home-away-from-home.
On to the Dutch National Monument dedicated by Queen Juliana as a memorial to the victims of WWII and to the unusual Skinny Bridge, once so narrow that pedestrians could not pass each other. Then, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th-century warehouses and charming churches with striking bell towers
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cologne City Tour
Today join a walking tour of Cologne, highlighted by the soaring twin-steeple Gothic cathedral that is the geographical and spiritual heart of the city. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops and taverns. After dinner on board, time to explore Cologne's vibrant nightlife before setting sail
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning in Koblenz & Afternoon Cruising
The ship docks this morning in Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Join an orientation walk this morning and free time to explore the Romanesque architecture and imposing defensive towers of this 2000-year old city. Or, join the optional tour to the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that's never been destroyed and has been continuously occupied for over 700 years. During lunch, set sail and enjoy a relaxing afternoon on board, taking in the spectacular vistas as the ship sails past castles perched on lofty cliffs, terraced vineyards and tiny villages. Pass the mighty Lorelei Rock on the eastern bank of the Rhine rising vertically from the waters, named for the siren "Lorelei" who bewitched sailors passing by
Optional:Â Marksburg Castle Tour
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Miltenberg Walking Tour
After a leisurely morning on board, arrive in the picturesque Bavarian village of Miltenberg, a jewel on the banks of the Main River. Discover the Market Square with its Renaissance-era fountain, the Merchant Hall with its stunning Gothic architecture and the unique 14th and 15th century half-timbered houses. Rejoin the ship just before dinner and set sail for Wurzburg
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wurzburg City Tour
Discover Wurzburg, named the "Pearl of the Romantic Road," with its dramatic Marienberg fortress, 15th century bridge and lush vineyards. Your tour takes you to the ornate Bishops' Residenz Palace, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This afternoon, explore the town on your own or relax on board
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bamberg City Tour
Today, dock in historic Bamberg, former residence of one of Germany's most powerful imperial dynasties and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your walk in the medieval city center with its impressive 11th century Romanesque cathedral and gorgeous Rose Garden. After, view the very unusual City Hall built on a tiny island in the middle of the Regnitz River and Little Venice, an area of colorful fishermen's houses. This afternoon is free to explore Bamberg independently, before setting sail this evening while you dine on board
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Nuremberg City Tour
Today explore Nuremberg, an energetic city with a visible history of almost one thousand years. The guided excursion visits the historic Palace of Justice where the War Crimes Tribunal met in 1946 and continues to the vibrant Market Square. After lunch on board the ship, the afternoon is free to further discover this wonderful city on your own. Stroll through the shops that fill the Old Town or walk along the fortified walls of Nuremberg Castle. In the late afternoon set sail for Regensburg
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Regensburg City Tour
This morning relax on board as the ship cruises the Danube River. Arrive to Regensburg in the early afternoon, one of Germany's largest and best preserved medieval cities, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour highlights the city's stunning architecture as you view the Old Town Hall, Dom St. Peter and the Porta Praetoria, gateway to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Marvel at beautiful churches and one of the oldest stone bridges crossing the Danube. Return to the ship or spend the afternoon at leisure discovering the delights of Regensburg on your own. Tonight, after dinner, set sail for Passau
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Morning in Passau
Dock this morning in 2500-year-old Passau, known for its pastel patrician houses, cafes, cobblestone lanes and riverfront promenade. Passau is a Bavarian town with a mix of Roman, Italian Baroque and Gothic architecture.
Explore Passau on a guided walking tour in the morning, or join the optional full day tour to picturesque Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg's most historic sites including the Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. After lunch at a local restaurant, there will be time to discover Salzburg on your own before returning to the ship. If you choose to remain onboard the ship, continue sailing during lunch and relax this afternoon. In the early evening, all passengers will rejoin the ship and continue sailing for Melk
Optional:Â Full Day Tour of Salzburg
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Melk Abbey
Disembark in Melk this morning for a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. View the Abbot's chambers, the Kaiser's walk and the lavish library. Then, return to the ship and continue cruising through the scenic Wachau Valley. This Afternoon, arrive in the village of Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube. Free time to stroll this quintessential village in the heart of the Wachau wine district. Walk along medieval cobblestone streets revealing 16th-century town houses and wine taverns
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Vienna City Tour
Your morning tour of romantic Vienna introduces you to this Imperial city with its legendary opulence and elegance. Drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard lined with magnificent Baroque palaces, parks and monuments. View the lavish Hofburg Palace, and the impressive Vienna Opera House. Continue to majestic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Parliament building. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure, or, join the optional tour to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once summer residence of the Habsburgs. Visit the gorgeous baroque apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured gardens. Tonight, perhaps take the opportunity to attend an evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music" at an optional concert performance of the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss, two of Vienna's most famous citizens
Optional:Â Schonbrunn Palace Tour (PM)
Optional:Â Classical Viennese Concert (PM)
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bratislava City Tour
This morning, enjoy the tranquil scenery as you sail along the scenic Danube. At noon, arrive in Bratislava, capital of Slovakia, a mix of modern and Baroque architecture.
This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center; view St. Martin's Cathedral, coronation site of the kings of Hungary, the 13th century Old Town Hall and the Franciscan church. Time to explore this colorful city on your own before returning to the ship for dinner as you sail for stunning Budapest
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Budapest City Tour
During your morning tour of the city you will visit the Buda side with its castle district, as well as the Pest side with the Parliament, the City Park and the Heroes Square. Explore the city's wonderful shops and cafes this afternoon on your own. Tonight, enjoy a lavish Farewell Dinner on board
Overnight:Â River Cruise
Meals:Â Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart Hungary
This morning, disembark and make your way to the airport for your departure flight. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 AM
Meals:Â Breakfast
More about Europe
More about Hungary
More about Netherlands
My Travel Experience Review
River cruising really is the most relaxing and comfortable way to explore Europe. This trip ticks all the boxes for great destinations and inclusions. Let us know if you'd like to stay longer or include airfares from Australia.
More about this tour
See the brochure
Click here to view, download or print a copy of this tour brochure.
The brochure includes details of the inclusions, itinerary (where applicable) and other relevant travel information. Information contained in the brochure is subject to change and at the time of booking you will be provided with an updated copy that includes the current details for your reservation.
Tour departures
This special river cruise deal is based on the following tour departures:
2023 – 13 April, 04 May, 20 May, 14 October, 19 October
Other dates are available in 2023, please contact us for the latest deals.
Price may vary or change without notice, depending on your travel date. Please ask us for your preferred departure date and we will advise availability and cost.
Tour start time
The start time listed for this tour is 3:00pm but this is just a guide and details will be confirmed upon confirmation.
If you book international flights, you will be advised of the flight details and check-in times when your reservation is confirmed.
Is this tour right for you?
This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect from three to four hours walking every touring day. The pace is moderate, however you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. There is a potential for sailings to be impacted by river water levels, or other factors which may impact safe navigation. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach and may also involve hotel accommodations.
Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board.
Important to remember...
The day-by-day tour descriptions are intended as an indicative guide only. Travel by nature is unpredictable. Weather patterns, sea or river conditions, road accessibility, public holidays, travel restrictions and a multitude of other factors may necessitate itinerary changes that are ultimately for the client's benefit. It is essential that travellers are flexible and open minded in this regard.
Speak to a travel specialist
The My Travel Experience team are travel experts and we're here to help you enjoy the best holiday - from the time you start to plan your trip until the day you return home. We are only a phone call or email away whenever you need us, so please contact us today with any questions.
Email reservations@mytravelxp.com. Phone 1300 168 910 (in Australia) or +61 400 226 454 (from overseas or via mobile).
New safety measures, more flexibility and greater peace of mind.
The wellbeing and safety of our passengers and staff is always a priority, especially as we adjust to a new world for travellers. My Travel Experience is committed to ensuring your peace of mind with customer-friendly booking practices and enhanced health and safety standards on our trips.
We work closely with tour operators that have received the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which enables travellers to recognise companies around the world that have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols.
To help you book with confidence, we will assist you if any unexpected situations arise and My Travel Experience also offers clients as much flexibility as possible when making bookings.
How to make a booking:
This travel deal is valid until 25 October 2022 and can be withdrawn any time. Please contact us for current rates.
Advertised price is based on lead-price departure(s) and rates will be advised for your preferred travel date prior to any payment being required.
All prices are per person, based on twin share, and listed in Australian dollars (AUD). The package is subject to confirmation at the time of booking and prices may change without notice. Booking conditions and cancellation fees apply.
Please read My Travel Experience Booking Terms & Conditions prior to making a reservation. By booking any travel service with us, you have agreed to be bound by these terms and conditions.
To make a booking please call My Travel Experience on 1300 168 910 or email reservations@mytravelxp.com.
You can also select a trip and request it via this website - please enter your preferred departure date (if known) and the number of people travelling. If you wish to submit an enquiry, please let us know your travel dates plus any other information that will help us provide a quote, such as departure city and travel preferences.
No payment is required to submit an online booking request - your booking is pending confirmation and no place is being held. Your reservation status will be advised when you hear from our travel consultants. Bookings are normally actioned within 24 hours - Monday to Friday.
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