Overview
The majesty of the Danube has inspired great works of literature, art and music, most notably Johann Strauss’ waltz ‘On The Beautiful Blue Danube’. Though its waters may not always be as vividly blue as its visitors expect, this enchanting river still presents the most romantic and scenic way to travel between central and eastern Europe. Our exclusive arrangements onboard the stylish 4? Filia Rheni II mean that you will be travelling with like-minded Titan guests in a convivial, relaxed environment with a selection of included excursions, onboard entertainment and attentive service offering exceptional value for money. Book now to take advantage of our special launch tariff.
Itinerary
Day 1 London Heathrow - Vienna
Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service® transports you from your front door to London Heathrow airport in time for a direct scheduled British Airways or another leading airline flight to Vienna. On arrival we transfer to the river and embark our vessel, Filia Rheni II. Our cruise begins late this afternoon, and this evening the Captain and crew formally greet you at the Captain’s Welcome Dinner.
Day 2 Durnstein - Wachau Valley cruising - Melk
This morning you may choose to take an optional guided walking tour of the attractive town of Durnstein, or alternatively explore independently. Later today relax onboard as we cruise through Austria’s scenic UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, a particularly pretty stretch of river and well worth some photographs as the view unfolds around each bend. We reach the sleepy town of Melk, dominated by its imposing Benedictine abbey, which we will visit as an included excursion.
Day 3 Passau
Spend the morning in Passau, known as the ‘City of Three Rivers’ being the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. An optional guided walking tour is available to discover the town, with its cobblestone streets and St Stephens Cathedral, home to the world’s largest cathedral organ. Return to the ship for a leisurely lunch and this afternoon is spent gently cruising towards Vienna.
Day 4 Vienna
After a morning on the river we arrive around midday in Vienna, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities with a rich culture of arts and music, and of course home to Mozart. Here we include a city tour by coach that will introduce you to the highlights of the city and we remain here until late tonight, allowing you to make further explorations or perhaps enjoy a memorable concert performance.
Please note for 2014 day 4 you will arrive into Bratislava in the afternoon giving you more time to explore the city.
Day 5 Bratislava - Esztergom
Across the border into Slovakia, and this morning you can join an optional coach and walking tour excursion of the city, including the lovingly-restored Old Town and the imposing Bratislava castle (Hrad), which towers over the city. We then continue our cruise to Hungary and the town of Esztergom.
Day 6 Eszertgom - Danube Bend - Budapest
This morning you can explore the town independently, and a visit to the immense neo-classical basilica that towers over the city skyline is recommended. It is the largest in Hungary and contains the world’s largest alter-piece. This afternoon presents yet another cruising highlight as we navigate the spectacular Danube Bend, where the river turns and twists sharply south towards Budapest below forested hills and pretty riverside towns.
Please note in 2014 you will also cruise through the glorious scenery of Kalocsa.
Day 7 Budapest
A full day in Budapest is a fitting finale to this splendid itinerary. Divided into two parts separated by the river, both ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’ are packed with interest. Of particular note is the Parliament Building on the pest side, much photographed as it reflects in the river, and the Castle District on the Buda side that provides wonderful historical interest and commanding views. Also Heroes’ Square with its vast statues and architecture is a must see. We have arranged for an included morning excursion of Budapest to provide an orientation of this fascinating city, and this afternoon is at leisure for your own exploration. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Gala Dinner onboard.
Day 8 Budapest - London Heathrow
This morning we bid farewell to Filia Rheni II and her crew, and transfer to Budapest Airport for our return British Airways or another leading airline flight to London Heathrow, where our staff will greet you and transfer you to Titan transport for your journey home to your front door.
Please note for 2014
Included
- 7 nights full board cruise on Filia Rheni II
- 20 Meals: 7 breakfast, 6 lunch and 7 dinner (breakfast on days 2-8, lunch on days 2-7 & dinner on days 1-7)
- Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
- Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Dinners
- Titan cocktail party
- Onboard entertainment
Included excursions and visits:
- Visit to Melk Abbey
- Vienna city tour
- Budapest city tour
Plus all these benefits:
- Titan’s VIP Home Departure Service®
- Check-in service by Titan staff
- Services of an experienced Titan tour manager
- Scheduled British Airways direct flights
- First class coaching with experienced drivers
- Porterage (one bag per person)
- All Airport Taxes, port taxes, security charges and applicable fuel surcharges
- UK Air Passenger Duty of £13 per person
- ATOL Protection fee
