Danube Dreams (Westbound)

Pricing is based on departure date: 13 November 2026

Selected departure dates available in October and November 2026.

Cruise along the peaceful Danube River through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany—discovering some of Central Europe’s most splendid capitals and charming towns along the way. Begin this timeless European river cruise in Budapest, where guided sightseeing acquaints you with the highlights of the vibrant capital of Hungary. Set sail on the Danube, take pictures of the impressive Parliament Building as you leave Budapest, and head for Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Here, enjoy a guided walk through the delightful Old Town and visit the Gothic-style St. Martin’s Cathedral. Vienna, Austria, the “City of Music,” makes an immediate impression with its lavish Habsburg Imperial Palace and neo-renaissance Vienna Opera House.

Enjoy the magnificent views as your river cruise takes you through the picturesque wine region of the Wachau Valley, with stops for a guided walk in Dürnstein and a visit to the impressive Benedictine Abbey of Melk. In Linz, walk around the Hauptplatz— Austria’s largest medieval square, which forms the center of the city, and be sure to photograph the splendid Trinity Column. Passau, Germany, the “City of Three Rivers,” is uniquely located where the Inn, Ilz, and Danube rivers converge. See its maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful Patrician houses, and marvel at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. A memorable conclusion to this delightful Danube River cruise!

Itinerary Map

Itinerary Highlights

Budapest, Hungary
Discover the “Pearl of the Danube” with guided sightseeing including iconic Heroes’ Square. Enjoy time to explore the Chain Bridge, cafés and historic streets before sailing towards Bratislava.

Bratislava, Slovakia
Explore the charming Old Town on a guided walk, taking in the Town Hall and historic St. Martin’s Cathedral, or hike to lofty Bratislava Castle. Enjoy free time to discover Slovakia’s beautiful capital before continuing to Vienna.

Vienna, Austria
Experience Vienna’s imperial grandeur with a guided tour featuring the Imperial Palace complex, Vienna Opera House and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Alternatively, discover the city’s musical heritage at the House of Strauss, complete with coffee and homemade cake.

Dürnstein & Wachau Valley, Austria
Explore picturesque Dürnstein and hear the legendary story of Richard the Lionheart, or hike to the castle ruins for sweeping views. Then sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley, passing vineyards, castles and charming villages.

Ybbs & Melk, Austria
Discover Austrian heritage with a choice of experiences, from local tastings at a pastry workshop and bee farm to historic Artstetten Castle or magnificent Melk Abbey, renowned for its frescoed ceilings, impressive library and ornate pipe organ.

Linz, Austria
Explore Linz on a guided walk along the Danube and visit Hauptplatz, Austria’s largest medieval square, with its striking white-marble Trinity Column. Optional excursions offer the chance to discover Salzburg or picturesque Český Krumlov.

Passau, Germany
Cruise through the scenic horseshoe-shaped Schlögen Oxbow before arriving in Passau, the “City of Three Rivers.” Wander its cobblestone streets and Artists’ Alley, with time to visit beautiful St. Stephen’s Cathedral before sailing to Vilshofen.

Your Ship: Avalon Visionary

Part of Avalon’s award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, Avalon Visionary offers an intimate river cruising experience with spacious accommodation, panoramic views and thoughtfully designed spaces that bring you closer to the scenery.

Panorama Suites & Open-Air Balcony
Relax in spacious 200 sq. ft. Panorama Suites, more than 30% larger than the industry standard. Wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows open to create Avalon’s signature Open-Air Balcony®, while window-facing Comfort Collection® beds let you wake up to ever-changing river views.

Dining & Onboard Experience
Enjoy relaxed dining throughout your journey, including light dining in the Panorama Bistro and al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro. Panoramic windows throughout the ship make the passing scenery part of the experience as you dine and unwind.

Sky Deck & Relaxation
Take in sweeping river views from the spacious Sky Deck, featuring premium lounge chairs and a whirlpool. Stay active in the Fitness Center or simply settle in outdoors and watch Europe’s landscapes unfold around you. Complimentary Wi-Fi is also available onboard.

Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Dürnstein & Wachau Valley, Ybbs & Melk, Linz, Passau, Vilshofen.

All fares are displayed in AUD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.