Central Europe: Danube All-Inclusive Riverside Luxury Cruise with Butler, Excursions & Free FULL-SERVICE International Flights
Setting the standard for river cruising, this Luxury Escapes exclusive, never-before-seen seven-night Riverside Luxury Cruises voyage allows you to unlock the awe-inspiring beauty of central Europe in opulence above and beyond your wildest dreams. Plus, travel in sophisticated style with return international flights from Australia included in your package. Be spoilt for choice with carefully curated excursions, tours and tastings – from Vienna’s musical offerings to Linz’s storied squares, the fairytale charm of Bratislava and the enchanting hot spring spas of Budapest. Experience it all in unparalleled comfort with Riverside Luxury Cruises’ signature brand of personalised hospitality.
Sailing onboard the magnificent Riverside Mozart from either Vienna or Budapest, you’ll experience the majesty of Austria, Slovakia and Hungary in truly all-inclusive luxury. Onboard, be immersed in the opulence with a private butler, all-inclusive gourmet dining, premium spirits, champagne and a selection of fine wines, a personal minibar stocked with your favourite drinks, plus the services of a dedicated crew. With a maximum capacity of just 162 passengers, a one-to-one crew-to-passenger ratio and the largest staterooms on the Danube, this exquisite ship is the essence of sophistication.
Discover Europe’s finest in all-inclusive decadence like never before. Whether savouring haute Rhine-style mussels and freshly made Alsatian Kougelhof, cocooned in Waterside’s pristine leather armchairs, or noshing on freshly grilled scampi paired with local Riesling at the open-air Vista Grill & Bar, rest assured the only finger you’ll ever raise is for the next round.
Uncover legendary composers, fairytale architecture and culinary inventions well beyond schnitzel on a guided walk through Vienna, or visit its Spanish Riding School – home to the stately Lipizzaner horses – where you can spend a day watching these graceful creatures train and perform. Budapest offers the chance to take a dip in its legendary thermal bathhouses – though touring famous landmarks such as the Szechenyi Chain Bridge and Buda Castle with a guide, or being shown the city’s beloved ruin bars, may be more your speed. With your choice of curated excursions offered in every port – and personal butler service to prepare you for each day ahead – Riverside Luxury Cruises ensures you’ll treasure your time on the Danube.
Free FULL-SERVICE International Flights: Roundtrip economy-class airfares are included in your package, departing from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth to Europe with Emirates, Qatar, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Qantas or similar. Our expert team will contact you post-booking to organise flights and any additions to your perfect itinerary.
Your cruise includes:
- Passage on a seven-night all-inclusive cruise aboard Riverside Mozart
- Free FULL-SERVICE return international flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or Perth with Emirates, Qatar, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Qantas or similar
- 20 meals included – Seven breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners
- All-inclusive dine-around access to five white-glove service restaurants, with menus inspired by regional produce
- Daily afternoon tea, plus unlimited cakes, waffles and ice cream
- All-inclusive premium drinks package including premium wines, spirits and Taittinger champagne
- 24-hour butler service with complimentary in-suite dining and minibar (replenished twice daily) to ensure your cruising experience is a breeze
- Your choice of handpicked off-shore excursions in each port
- All port taxes, service charges and onboard entertainment
- Roundtrip airport transfers to and from the cruise ship
- Gratuities for onboard personnel
Dining & bars
- Marketplace
- Blue Bar Grill
- Bistro
- Vista Grill & Bar
- Barbecue on the Upper Deck
- The Charming Blue
- Waterside
- Cove Piano Bar
- Vintage Room
- Connoisseur’s Club
- Coffee and tea station
Entertainment
- Fitness centre
- Counter-current pool
- Jacuzzi
- Spa
- Bicycles
- Jogging track
- Finnish sauna
- Steam bath
- Salon
- Library
Other services
- Butler service
- Laundry service
- Elevator
- Wi-Fi
Surcharges may apply to select facilities and services
Eastbound and westbound cruise packages are available. Please choose your packages carefully.
Eastbound: Your cruise begins in Vienna, Austria and ends in Budapest, Hungary, with roundtrip airport transfers.
Westbound: Your cruise begins in Budapest, Hungary and ends in Vienna, Austria, with roundtrip airport transfers.
Your cruise boards at 1pm on Day 1, departs on Day 2 and docks at 11am on Day 8. Please ensure you arrive to your departure port in time for boarding.
Return international economy-class flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are included in your package. Surcharges to depart from other cities will apply. Please see the Fine Print for more details.
A transfer from either Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) or Budapest International Airport (BUD) to the ship is included on the first day only. A transfer from the ship to either Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) or Budapest International Airport (BUD) is included on the last day only. Please ensure your flights arrive in time for embarkation.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist.
EASTBOUND
Day 1: Vienna, Austria
Touch down in Vienna, a cultural and artistic powerhouse renowned for its famous composers, museums and palaces. Upon arrival at Vienna International Airport (VIE), you will be greeted by a Riverside Cruises representative and transferred to the ship, where you will embark and settle into your cabin. Once you’ve freshened up, head out onto the deck to admire the remarkable Danube. Enjoy the remainder of the day familiarising yourself with the opulent Riverside Mozart, before enjoying a gourmet meal and settling in for your first restful night on board.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 2: Vienna, Austria
Following a sumptuous breakfast, venture ashore to tour romantic Vienna’s legendary opulence and elegance. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and experience the city’s enchanting beauty as you follow in the footsteps of musical legends like Mozart and Strauss. With over 100 museums to choose from, you’ll be captivated by the endless possibilities for cultural exploration. Marvel at the grandeur of the magnificent palaces, including the iconic Schonbrunn Palace, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the Habsburg Empire. For a unique experience, visit the Spanish Riding School – home to the stately Lipizzaner horses – and watch these graceful creatures train and perform.
Choose to join an included shore excursion and take the rest of the time to explore at leisure before returning to the ship and settling in for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 3: Durnstein, Austria – Melk, Austria
This morning, glide into the village of Durnstein – one of the most scenic towns on the Danube. Choose an included shore excursion to explore this charming village in the eastern portion of the Wachau wine region or take a stroll through the streets on your own time. Walk along medieval cobblestones and admire the stunning baroque architecture, colourful houses and cosy wine taverns. Then, venture to the ruins of Durnstein Castle perched above the city and uncover the legend of Richard the Lionheart as you take in the crumbling halls of his former prison.
Back on board, relax as the boat passes through the scenic Wachau Valley, with lovely storybook views of vineyards, castles, hilltop ruins and monasteries. Later, disembark in Melk, where you can visit the historic Melk Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Europe. This UNESCO-recognised monastery, home to Benedictine monks who dedicate their lives to culture and education, sits atop a rocky formation overlooking the Danube.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 4: Linz, Austria
Today, you will arrive in Linz, Austria – a city of unparalleled beauty and charm. As you step into the heart of this magical destination, you’ll be transported back in time to the golden age of the Habsburg dynasty. Stroll through the baroque-styled Main Square and be captivated by the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through the winding streets of the Old Town and discover hidden treasures around every corner, from cosy cafes to stylish boutiques. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history at the Schlossmuseum, where you’ll be awed by the stories of the royal family and their legacy before visiting the magnificent Mariendom (New Cathedral), a breathtaking masterpiece of architecture that can hold up to 20,000 worshippers.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 5: Bratislava, Slovakia
Relax on board today as you take in the tranquil scenery of the Danube before arriving in Bratislava, the pedestrian-friendly capital of Slovakia. This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2,000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town centre, visit the Gothic St. Martin’s Cathedral – the coronation site of Hungarian kings from 1563 to 1830 – and stroll past the Old Town Hall, dating back to the 13th-century medieval beginnings of the town. After your included shore excursion, you will have time to explore this colourful city independently before returning to the ship for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 6: Esztergom, Hungary – Budapest, Hungary
Savour a sumptuous breakfast onboard before arriving in Esztergom, a hidden gem of Central Europe and the spiritual heart of Hungary. As you step ashore, you’ll be captivated by the spellbinding beauty of this picturesque city, with its towering basilica, stunning river views and charming cobblestone streets. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage and local culture at the Esztergom Castle Museum, where you can explore the legacy of the royal family and their impact on Hungarian history. Be sure to visit the magnificent Esztergom Basilica, one of Europe’s largest churches that keeps watch over the city from Esztergom’s highest point
Rejoin your tour group onboard your luxurious vessel as you sail towards Budapest, Hungary’s culture-rich capital.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 7: Budapest, Hungary
Welcome to Budapest, a city that needs no introduction and the final port of your magnificent European river cruise. As you step ashore, you’ll be entranced by the inimitable beauty of this vibrant city – stroll along the Danube promenade and take in the iconic landmarks, including the Szechenyi Chain Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle. Wander through steep streets lined with charming houses to the fairytale spires of Fisherman’s Bastion, where breathtaking views of the city await.
Following your included shore tour, indulge in the city’s delicious cuisine with a hearty goulash or delicate pastry. As evening falls, stroll the streets in search of the unique ruin bars that make up Budapest’s unparalleled nightlife scene before reboarding the mighty Riverside Mozart for one final night aboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 8: Budapest, Hungary
It’s time to say farewell to this storied city. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Budapest International Airport (BUD) for your onwards journey.
Meals: Breakfast
WESTBOUND
Day 1: Budapest, Hungary
Touch down in Budapest, a vibrant city that needs no introduction. Upon arrival at Budapest International Airport (BUD), you will be greeted by a Riverside Cruises representative and transferred to the ship, where you will embark and settle into your cabin before heading out onto the deck to admire the remarkable Danube. Enjoy the remainder of the day familiarising yourself with the opulent Riverside Mozart, before enjoying a gourmet meal and settling in for your first restful night on board.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 2: Budapest, Hungary
Following a sumptuous breakfast, venture ashore and be entranced by the inimitable beauty of this vibrant city – stroll along the Danube promenade and take in the iconic landmarks, including the Szechenyi Chain Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle. Wander through steep streets lined with charming houses to the fairytale spires of Fisherman’s Bastion, where breathtaking views of the city await.
Following your included shore tour, indulge in the city’s delicious cuisine with a hearty goulash or delicate pastry. As evening falls, stroll the streets in search of the unique ruin bars that make up Budapest’s unparalleled nightlife scene before reboarding the mighty Riverside Mozart.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 3: Bratislava, Slovakia
Relax on board today as you take in the tranquil scenery of the Danube before arriving in Bratislava, the pedestrian-friendly capital of Slovakia. This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2,000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town centre, visit the Gothic St. Martin’s Cathedral – the coronation site of Hungarian kings from 1563 to 1830 – and stroll past the Old Town Hall, dating back to the 13th-century medieval beginnings of the town. After your included shore excursion, you will have time to explore this colourful city independently before returning to the ship for dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 4: Krems, Austria
Welcome to Krems, Austria, where your adventure is up to you. Start your day in the heart of the Danube’s Wachau Valley, strolling through the idyllic village and sampling tantalising treats. This scenic town is covered in vineyard-lined hills, historic houses and beautiful courtyards. Choose to join an included shore tour or spend the day exploring at leisure. Garden lovers will relish a visit to Kittenberger Erlebnisgarten, where over 50 themed gardens stretched across more than 60,000 square metres wait to be explored. Alternatively, spend your day in comfortable indulgence sampling some of Austria’s best wines.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 5: Linz, Austria
Today, you will arrive in Linz, Austria – a city of unparalleled beauty and charm. As you step into the heart of this magical destination, you’ll be transported back in time to the golden age of the Habsburg dynasty. Stroll through the baroque-styled Main Square and be captivated by the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through the winding streets of the Old Town and discover hidden treasures around every corner, from cosy cafes to stylish boutiques. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich history at the Schlossmuseum, where you’ll be awed by the stories of the royal family and their legacy before visiting the magnificent Mariendom (New Cathedral), a breathtaking masterpiece of architecture that can hold up to 20,000 worshippers.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 6: Linz, Austria – Mauthausen, Austria – Grein, Austria
Bid farewell to the scenic beauty of Linz as you set sail to Mauthausen. Upon arrival, choose to visit the Mauthausen Memorial, where you can pay your respects to the victims of the World War II concentration camp. After an active conversation focused on remembrance and learning, opt to visit the St. Florian Monastery, an impressive example of stunning baroque architecture. Return to your elegant ship for lunch as you continue to Grein. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming town, known for its castle perched above the waters of the Danube and historic theatre built in 1971.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 7: Vienna, Austria
Following a sumptuous breakfast, venture ashore to tour romantic Vienna’s legendary opulence and elegance. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and experience the city’s enchanting beauty, as you follow in the footsteps of musical legends like Mozart and Strauss. With over one hundred museums to choose from, you’ll be captivated by the endless possibilities for cultural exploration. Marvel at the grandeur of the magnificent palaces, including the iconic Schonbrunn Palace, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the Habsburg Empire. For a unique experience, visit the Spanish Riding School – home to the stately Lipizzaner horses – and watch these graceful creatures train and perform.
Choose to join an included shore excursion and take the rest of the time to explore at leisure before returning to the ship and settling in for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Mozart
Day 8: Vienna, Austria
It’s time to say farewell to this storied city. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Vienna International Airport (VIE) for your onwards journey.
Meals: Breakfast