Serene waltz on a cultured waterway
See the Danube’s many gems from a stunning five-star ship
ROMANCE flows with the Danube, as it wends its glittering way past gilded abbeys, cliff-top castles and ornate palaces — and through the heart of some of Europe’s most timeless cities and towns.
A serene waltz along this cultured waterway unlocks a tapestry of tradition, with lasting memories to be made in destinations such as Vienna, old Regensburg and Melk.
Today’s best five-star river ships make it simple to soak up the Danube’s many sights and wonders, on an exciting journey that’s as enlightening as it is delightfully indulgent and relaxing.
Spend days making cultural discoveries ashore, then kick back on deck with a cocktail in hand, as on craggy rocks, high above, the remnants of a castle gently drift by, while fishermen’s huts sit on the banks and birds splash in the current. What’s more, when you travel on a Scenic Space-Ship, you’ll enjoy a whole range of exclusive treats included in the price to make the journey even better.
There’s an enchanting Strauss and Mozart concert within the grand walls of the Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna, for example. And among the many Freechoice excursions also included, is a chance to sample beer at Weltenberg Abbey, or visit Salzburg, home of The Sound Of Music.
Start or end the Gems Of The Danube itinerary in Budapest, a city filled with beautiful buildings, thermal baths and sumptuous cuisine.
Budapest looks incredible as night falls. Lights illuminate the neo-gothic Parliament building and bathe landmarks such as Fisherman’s Bastion and St Stephen’s Cathedral in a golden glow, dramatically reflected in the waters of the Danube.
In Vienna, witness the sheer opulence of the Habsburg Empire at the Schonbrunn Palace. Or opt to view the baroque Belvedere art museum, home to Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss.
Yet another luminescent wonder awaits at Melk, where the magnificent 18th-century Benedictine abbey is a confection of gold-leaf walls and fabulous fresco ceilings. And the Unesco-listed Wachau Valley is an alpine wonderland of lush vineyards and sleepy villages loomed over by imposing castles.
After a fabulous day ashore, celebrate with sundowner drinks and awesome views on deck. There’s yet more splendour to see in Regensburg’s old town, with its wealthy merchant houses, Old Bridge and the Roman Porta Praetoria fortress.
Facilities on board the opulent Scenic Space-Ships are certain to impress.
They encompass a bubbly vitality pool, five dining venues, spacious suites, a wellness area, all-weather balconies and a sun deck — all yours to enjoy as you float through the Danube’s majestic countryside.
Guests are lavished with everything from insightful guided excursions to suit their favoured pace, to exciting fine dining, with complimentary drinks throughout the day.
As the perks, privileges and countless thoughtful details are rolled up in the price, you can leave your wallet untouched.
Butler service, gratuities, entertainment, flights from a choice of UK airports, wi-fi and even your mini-bar are all included, too.
And you’ll have the services of an experienced cruise director and local experts to guide and assist, both on and off your luxurious ship.