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Munich & Danube Explorer

Munich & Danube Explorer

About This Cruise

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Emerald Luna

Departure Date

11 April 2028

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Germany

Nuremberg

Welcome to Germany and Munich. Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel in the Bavarian capital for your included two-night stay. Later, enjoy meeting your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.

Germany

Nuremberg

Discover Munich, the vibrant capital of Bavaria, where grand architecture, rich history and timeless Bavarian traditions come together. Perhaps visit one of Munich’s traditional beer halls, browse its elegant shopping streets or wander through the charming lanes of the historic Old Town. Your tour director will help you make the most of your time in the city. Included ExcursionGuided city tour of MunichAfter breakfast, join an included panoramic tour of Munich that showcases the former Olympic site, Nymphenburg Palace, Maximilianstrasse and the Parliament, the National Theatre and Munich’s Residenz. During today’s guided walking tour, stroll the Marienplatz Square and see the famous Glockenspiel.

Germany

Nuremberg

This morning, after breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests as you will be transferred from Munich to Passau, ready for your exciting river cruise ahead. As you embark on your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, you'll be warmly welcomed on board by your friendly captain and crew. This evening, meet your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board.

Germany

Passau

This morning, after breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests as you will be transferred from Munich to Passau, ready for your exciting river cruise ahead. As you embark on your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, you'll be warmly welcomed on board by your friendly captain and crew. This evening, meet your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board.

Germany

Passau

Narrow cobblestone streets, graceful arcades, and St Stephen's Cathedral welcome you to Passau. This picturesque city has been shaped by the surrounding rivers over the years, sitting at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz. Known as the ‘City of Three Rivers’, this memorable destination is dominated by large squares, magical promenades and romantic lanes.Included ExcursionBavarian Countryside ExperienceGain a fascinating insight into the life of local Bavarian farmers during a visit to a working farm. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of their fresh produce and gourmet specialties, such as cheese, cold meats, bread and beer. EmeraldACTIVEHike to Veste OberhausSet off on a guided hike around Passau, catching sights of the Mariahilf, a place of pilgrimage at St. Severin, an ancient church dating back to the Ottonian Dynasty. Follow the trail to the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century fortress that’s one of Europe’s largest preserved castle complexes and offers spectacular views. DiscoverMOREBavaria Live (extra expense)Eating, drinking and making music together is a huge part of everyday Bavarian life. Join a local guide and learn about the 800-year-old history of Passau beer and the Bavarian Tavern traditions in a fun and entertaining way. Listen to a local oompah band while you enjoy a beer and a pretzel.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Austria

Linz

Cross into Austria and dock in the town of Linz. Though the city has a history that dates back more than 1,000 years, it’s considered the country’s centre of innovation and technology. Striking public art installations, cutting-edge galleries and an ever-evolving cultural scene make Linz one of Europe’s most vibrant destinations. EmeraldPLUSGuided tour of Ceský KrumlovSet out on a full-day excursion to the World Heritage-listed town of Ceský Krumlov. This quaint Czech town has one of the best-preserved ancient centres in Europe, with more than 300 protected medieval buildings and an iconic castle complex. Enjoy a guided tour of the area, including the 15th-century St. Vitus’ Church and a series of delightful Gothic façades, each taking you back to the Middle Ages. DiscoverMOREExcursion to Mauthausen Concentration Camp (extra expense)Discover the history of one of Nazi Germany’s largest concentration camps on a guided tour. Learn about the events that took place at Mauthausen as well as its significance in World War II. You’ll see the camp’s remnants, including the barracks and the stone quarry, which played a central role during its operation.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours

Czech Republic

Cesky Krumlov

Cross into Austria and dock in the town of Linz. Though the city has a history that dates back more than 1,000 years, it’s considered the country’s centre of innovation and technology. Striking public art installations, cutting-edge galleries and an ever-evolving cultural scene make Linz one of Europe’s most vibrant destinations. EmeraldPLUSGuided tour of Ceský KrumlovSet out on a full-day excursion to the World Heritage-listed town of Ceský Krumlov. This quaint Czech town has one of the best-preserved ancient centres in Europe, with more than 300 protected medieval buildings and an iconic castle complex. Enjoy a guided tour of the area, including the 15th-century St. Vitus’ Church and a series of delightful Gothic façades, each taking you back to the Middle Ages. DiscoverMOREExcursion to Mauthausen Concentration Camp (extra expense)Discover the history of one of Nazi Germany’s largest concentration camps on a guided tour. Learn about the events that took place at Mauthausen as well as its significance in World War II. You’ll see the camp’s remnants, including the barracks and the stone quarry, which played a central role during its operation.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 3.5 hours

Arrive in Melk early this morning. Situated within Austria’s famed Wachau Valley, the county’s premier wine-growing region, Melk is home to a 900-year-old World Heritage-listed Benedictine abbey. A charming and compact port, it is filled with flower-lined laneways, colourful buildings and sprawling green spaces.Later, continue to Weissenkirchen, another picturesque village in the Wachau Valley. Included ExcursionTour of Melk AbbeyExplore this ancient abbey today on an included tour. Your guide will take you through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour along the DanubeEnjoy an active guided e-bike ride along the Danube from Melk to Weissenkirchen, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns before settling down for a picnic on the riverbanks. E-bikes will take you smoothly along the 30 kilometres (19 miles) route through picturesque surroundings, including a relaxing break for a refreshing drink along the way. EmeraldACTIVEGuided hike in WeissenkirchenEffortlessly suspended in time, Weissenkirchen is one of the most frequented parts of the Wachau wine region, where the delightful warm weather creates the ideal setting for viticulture. Today, join this active hike to explore the town and its surrounds. DiscoverMOREWachau Valley Experience (extra expense)Hike through the vineyards of the picturesque village of Weissenkirchen and learn about its long wine-growing heritage, as well as the region’s climate and soil. Next, taste the local wine, jam, chutney, and chocolate, before trying a delicious Austrian sweet delicacy called Mohnzelten.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Austria

Weissenkirchen

Arrive in Melk early this morning. Situated within Austria’s famed Wachau Valley, the county’s premier wine-growing region, Melk is home to a 900-year-old World Heritage-listed Benedictine abbey. A charming and compact port, it is filled with flower-lined laneways, colourful buildings and sprawling green spaces.Later, continue to Weissenkirchen, another picturesque village in the Wachau Valley. Included ExcursionTour of Melk AbbeyExplore this ancient abbey today on an included tour. Your guide will take you through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour along the DanubeEnjoy an active guided e-bike ride along the Danube from Melk to Weissenkirchen, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns before settling down for a picnic on the riverbanks. E-bikes will take you smoothly along the 30 kilometres (19 miles) route through picturesque surroundings, including a relaxing break for a refreshing drink along the way. EmeraldACTIVEGuided hike in WeissenkirchenEffortlessly suspended in time, Weissenkirchen is one of the most frequented parts of the Wachau wine region, where the delightful warm weather creates the ideal setting for viticulture. Today, join this active hike to explore the town and its surrounds. DiscoverMOREWachau Valley Experience (extra expense)Hike through the vineyards of the picturesque village of Weissenkirchen and learn about its long wine-growing heritage, as well as the region’s climate and soil. Next, taste the local wine, jam, chutney, and chocolate, before trying a delicious Austrian sweet delicacy called Mohnzelten.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 3 hours

Austria

Vienna

Austria’s breathtaking capital is recognised for its cultural legacy. As the former residence of Mozart and Beethoven, a multitude of imperial palaces represent a rich history, and the museum district boasts contemporary buildings, housing the work of some of the world’s most prolific artists.Included ExcursionGuided tour of ViennaExplore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot, or join a guided e-bike tour. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to explore Vienna at leisure.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour of ViennaEmbark on a guided e-bike tour of Vienna to Danube Island. Your guide will talk about why Vienna is the most liveable city in the world and share personal stories, introducing you to a different side of the city. This is an opportunity to visit places other travellers won’t see and experience the authentic Vienna.DiscoverMOREKlosterneuburg Abbey Wine Tour (extra expense)Step into the heart of Habsburg history at one of Austria’s oldest and most historically significant monasteries, the 12th-century Klosterneuburg Abbey. Visit the historic Press House, beautifully illuminated by a stunning light installation, then descend into the Baroque wine cellar to learn about Austria’s renowned DAC wines. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of four wines or cloudy apple juices.Activity level: Medium, Duration: 3.5 hoursDiscoverMOREExclusive Viennese evening concert (extra expense)With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna’s most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz’ and the ‘Radetzky March’. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Austria

Vienna

Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. At the same time, the complex history of Communism can be found in its Brutalist landmarks and military monuments.Included ExcursionWalking tour of BratislavaEnjoy a sightseeing tour, including the enchanting Old City or hike to Bratislava Castle. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.EmeraldPLUSLocal Slovakian entertainment on boardRelax on board in the Horizon Lounge as you listen to local saloon orchestra Afrodite, comprised of five women playing classical arrangements of pop music, evergreens, musical and movie melodies in traditional Slovakian dress. EmeraldACTIVEGuided hike to Bratislava CastleThis active excursion begins at the port of Bratislava, passing the monumental Slovak National Theatre building and continuing to the extensive riverside promenade. Admire the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral, the most famous sacral building in Bratislava, climb the hill to Bratislava Castle for panoramic views, see St Michael’s Gate and walk through the main square.DiscoverMORESkoda tour of Post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)On this truly insightful tour of Bratislava in a Skoda car, you’ll learn about life during the Communist era through real personal stories from your guide and enjoy some local authentic refreshments from this time. This off-the-beaten-track tour brings alive the story of Bratislava in the turbulent 20th century.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hoursDiscoverMORECarpathian Wine route (extra expense)Explore the viticultural towns of the Small Carpathian Wine Route, including the vineyards of Vinosady and a family-run winery in Senkvice. You’ll learn about the proud heritage of winemaking and sample some local wines in a historic wine cellar.Activity level: Moderate, Duration 4hr 40min

Slovakia

Bratislava

Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. At the same time, the complex history of Communism can be found in its Brutalist landmarks and military monuments.Included ExcursionWalking tour of BratislavaEnjoy a sightseeing tour, including the enchanting Old City or hike to Bratislava Castle. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.EmeraldPLUSLocal Slovakian entertainment on boardRelax on board in the Horizon Lounge as you listen to local saloon orchestra Afrodite, comprised of five women playing classical arrangements of pop music, evergreens, musical and movie melodies in traditional Slovakian dress. EmeraldACTIVEGuided hike to Bratislava CastleThis active excursion begins at the port of Bratislava, passing the monumental Slovak National Theatre building and continuing to the extensive riverside promenade. Admire the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral, the most famous sacral building in Bratislava, climb the hill to Bratislava Castle for panoramic views, see St Michael’s Gate and walk through the main square.DiscoverMORESkoda tour of Post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)On this truly insightful tour of Bratislava in a Skoda car, you’ll learn about life during the Communist era through real personal stories from your guide and enjoy some local authentic refreshments from this time. This off-the-beaten-track tour brings alive the story of Bratislava in the turbulent 20th century.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hoursDiscoverMORECarpathian Wine route (extra expense)Explore the viticultural towns of the Small Carpathian Wine Route, including the vineyards of Vinosady and a family-run winery in Senkvice. You’ll learn about the proud heritage of winemaking and sample some local wines in a historic wine cellar.Activity level: Moderate, Duration 4hr 40min

Hungary

Budapest

Welcome to Budapest, where a fitting end to a fantastic trip awaits. Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. The Hungarian capital is divided by the iconic Danube River, with Buda and Pest on either side. They can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city’s most symbolic structures.This evening, you’ll enjoy a Hungarian folklore show before your farewell dinner.Included ExcursionBudapest tour with Grand Market visitExplore Budapest’s cobbled medieval quarter today on a coach tour through the World Heritage-listed city centre. Your guide will teach you about the Hungarian capital's culinary scene, and the tour will finish at the neo-Gothic Grand Market, Budapest's largest and most expansive indoor market, where you'll have time to explore on your own. EmeraldPLUSTraditional Hungarian folklore show on boardEnjoy a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board. EmeraldACTIVEHike to Gellert HillStrap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike up to the World Heritage-listed site of Gellert Hill. On your walk, take in the stunning views of the Danube River and the city’s architecture. You’ll pass landmarks like Várkert Bazaar and beautifully landscaped gardens, making this an unforgettable experience in Budapest.DiscoverMOREExcursion to Szentendre (extra expense)Visit the picturesque village of Szentendre, where cobblestone streets evoke a Mediterranean atmosphere that has inspired many artists. Take a walking tour through the pedestrian city centre to admire the Baroque architecture, churches, colourful houses and narrow, cobbled streets. The main square, Fo Tér, and the alleyways around it are lined with art galleries, museums and shops.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

Hungary

Budapest

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of Europe’s iconic sights and cultural treasures with you. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.
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Suite

Owners One-Bedroom Suite

A limited number of Owner’s One-Bedroom Suites are available on each Star-Ship, making them our most exclusive suites. A separate living room and bedroom area offers a greater amount of space and a walk-in wardrobe provides ample storage room.

Suite inclusions

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Separate bedroom and lounge area
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Walk-in wardrobe
  • Complimentary in-suite mini- bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  • Complimentary Nespresso machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Four items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Use of an iPad
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
Suite

Grand Balcony Suite

Grand Balcony Suites come with an outdoor private balcony area, complete with open-air system. A pillow menu ensures you have the best night’s sleep possible, and a continental breakfast can be delivered to your room on request.

Suite Inclusions

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary Nespresso machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Two items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Suite

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

These chic suites are perfect for viewing the scenery pass by. Our innovative all-weather balcony system allows the floor-to-ceiling window to drop down electronically and an indoor decked area allows you to enjoy the sights in all their glory. 

Suite Inclusions

  • Indoor balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
Outside

Emerald Stateroom

Staterooms boast a spacious layout when it comes to European small ship river cruising. A picture window provides plenty of natural light, and your en-suite bathroom will be fully stocked with luxurious ESPA toiletries.

Inclusions

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
Outside

Emerald Single Stateroom

Select Star-Ships on the Danube, Moselle, Rhine and Rhône rivers come with tastefully-appointed cabins specially built for solo travellers, with excellent levels of comfort to guarantee the perfect accommodation for one. 

Inclusions

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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casual

Reflections Restaurant

Our premiere on board dining spot

With open seating and elegant design, our Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our fleet of boutique Star-Ships throughout Europe and Southeast Asia. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

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casual

The Terrace

Dine alfresco

A beautifully decked area in the forward of our European Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a drink as the wonders of the landscape pass by.

healthy

Healthy Dining

The freshest ingredients
Dine on delectable meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce.

Lunch with a view
Enjoy healthy meals while soaking in the stunning views and fresh air.

A range of dietary options
Sample amazing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options^. ^Please inform your crew of any dietary requirements.

bbq

Sky Barbecue

The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.

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Bar, Lounge

Horizon Bar and Lounge

Peruse our extensive drinks menu from the comfort of the Horizon Bar, the principal lounge area on board our boutique Star-Ships. Fitted with comfortable seating, a well-stocked bar and dancefloor and entertainment space, this is the premier spot to relax, unwind or dance the night away at the end of another exceptional day on the river. During the day, you'll also find unlimited coffee and speciality teas here

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

From the stunning rooftop deck of our Star-Ships, enjoy panoramic views of the passing landscapes and a selection of activities to keep you entertained.

Cinema

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Pool by day, cinema by night

Exclusive to Emerald Cruises Star-Ships cruising Central Europe and France, the innovative heated indoor pool with is a tranquil haven to swim and take in the passing river views by day. As dusk falls, the floor gently rises to cover the pool, and the space transforms into an intimate cinema or Riverside Lounge – a blissful setting to enjoy magical vistas, read, or socialise to gentle music and soft lighting. Morning stretch sessions will also invigorate you, before seamlessly transforming back into a luxurious pool for the day. Enjoy a touch of innovation on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Central Europe and France with the heated indoor pool. With expansive river views, it is a tranquil setting to relax by day and on select evenings, the space transforms into a cosy indoor cinema.

Activity, Exclusive

The Wheelhouse

The wheelhouse is open for all guests to visit during a river cruise itinerary. If you have a particular interest in river navigation, the wheelhouse can provide a wonderful insight into the role of the captain and the intricacies of working through locks.

Reception

Reception

Whether you want to buy a drinks package, learn about our optional excursions or simply talk with our friendly and attentive crew, the reception is the place to go for questions and enquiries during your time on-board.

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Pool

Pool

Getting your laps in
Spacious on board pools provide plenty of room for swimming.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

A relaxing massage

Unwind with a massage courtesy of our expertly trained masseuses.

A dedicated space

Settle into a professional massage therapy room designed around serenity.

Every thoughtful detail

From soft gowns to luxurious ESPA toiletries, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort.

Gym, Wellness

Fitness Area

Your well-equipped gym

Keep up your workout regime in our well-equipped, modern gym.

Salon

Hairdressers

In need of a quick trim during your travels? On-board the Emerald Sun, Emerald Luna and Emerald Dawn, you can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.

Jogging or Walking Track

Walking Track

Take a stroll, stretch those legs and drink in the views on our dedicated walking track. Spanning the perimeter of the ship, it’s there to help you stay active on-board.