A Romantic Danube River Cruise
We departed Manchester on the morning of 21st November for a direct flight to Budapest, on arrival it was a quick transfer down to the Viking Longship Rinda. She was moored right in the centre of Budapest, next to the famous Chain Bridge, linking Buda and Pest.
On check in we were allocated our French balcony cabin just along from reception, ideal location. The cabin was a twin with plenty of storage space and a small bathroom complete with heated floor! In the cabin was a fact sheet about Budapest and what to expect the following day, this fact sheet turned up every evening so you always knew what time your day was about to start.
We spent the first night in Budapest, getting off the ship for a short stroll around before going back for a wonderful dinner. The entertainment in the evening was locally based, as we were moored overnight local entertainers were brought in with music and dancing for all to enjoy.
After an early wake up, breakfast was served from 7.30 and we were then all allocated onto tour buses for the included city excursion, make sure you take your camera. The majority of the tour was by bus and there was a little walking, so dont be worried that you will be on the go all the time. We visited some beautiful sights and then had free time to sit and have a lovely hot chocolate.
Back on board the ship for lunch, where every day you have two options, either eat in the main restaurant where you are served a small 3 course lunch, or in the Aquavit terrace, where sandwiches or pasta are served.
Later that afternoon we gently set sail for Vienna. There is a small library on board and board games to keep you entertained, if you have a little more energy, then, on the top deck is a shuffle board or a small mini golf.
Dinner again in the main restaurant, where there is something for everyone, wine is served to compliment the meal. Then off to relax again in the bar with the live music, or piano player!
On arrival the next morning into Vienna, again, an early breakfast, then the included city tour. A little more walking on this one, at a nice leisurely pleasant pace. Visit the Spanish riding school and the stunning St Stephens Cathedral.. You then have time on your own for a little mooch about. You can then either spend the rest of the day in Vienna, at your own leisure, or head back to the ship for lunch by the city tour bus. There is an easy metro system to get you back if you choose to do your own thing.
Later that afternoon, we took the shuttle bus back into the centre for a browse around the Christmas markets, a great thing to do at this time of year. There is an optional excursion in the afternoon to Schonbrunn Palace, well worth a visit.
Again back on board for an early dinner, as there is an optional excursion again to the Mozart & Strauss concert in one of Viennas palaces. A lovely way to spend the evening. Then back for a night cap before your evening sail to Melk.
Sunday morning starts the beginning of one the most scenic parts of the Danube, and there is no better place than to sit and watch it than the sun deck, although November is a little chilly, wrap up well. There are lots of little Austrian villages and castles along the way and lots of history. There is a talk letting you know what is what as you sail along.
After lunch we docked at Melk then took the included excursion to the beautiful Benedictine abbey, after a guided tour we then had a short walk back to the boat., or again you can take the bus. Melk is a lovely little Austrian town, again take your camera!
A prompt departure again as there are lots of locks to get through on the next stretch to Passau, even for those without the engineering knowledge, its an amazing sight to see.
This evenings entertainment was Austrian based with singers and musicians on board and the whole bar area and ships galley are overflowing with food and drink, dont forget to try the schnapps!
After a long and fun filled night it was off to bed before our disembarkation the next morning.
Although we didnt do the full itinerary due to time, I wouldnt hesitate to go with Viking again, the staff on board made sure everything was smooth an deficient, and we were so well looked after.
So what river shall we visit next?
Yvonne, November 2014
If you would like more information on the Viking River cruises Romantic Danube itinerary or other cruises available with Viking then speak to one of our river cruise experts on 0845 259 4181 or visit http//:www.LowCostDeals.co.uk/VikingRiverCruises.