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The Blue Danube River Cruise

The Blue Danube River Cruise

About This Cruise

Soak up all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand Baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart.

Follow the Blue Danube through the heart of imperial Europe, where grand capitals, vineyard-clad valleys and centuries of history line its banks. Discover the twin charms of Budapest, wander the elegant streets of Vienna, and explore the characterful Slovak capital, Bratislava. Along the way, sail through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, pass hilltop castles and storybook towns, and immerse yourself in the music, culture and traditions that have shaped this remarkable region. From classical recitals and folklore performances to ever-changing river views, this is the Danube at its most captivating.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    River cruising is relaxed, scenic and intimate

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

  • Solo travellers

    Riviera Travel offers dedicated solo cabins or solo fares

Type

River, Classic

Ship

MS Riviera Reflection

Departure Date

17 September 2028

Cruise Line

Riviera Travel

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Hungary

Budapest

Arrival in Budapest - Arrive in Budapest and board your ship in the late afternoon. If you're here before then, enjoy free time in Budapest.Once we arrive at the ship, our dedicated crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with this first-class floating hotel.There’s always a sense of expectancy and excitement on the eve of a cruise and, after an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation is sure to revolve around the delights ahead.

Hungary

Esztergom

Esztergom - Overnight we have cruised upstream to Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest towns, a royal capital during medieval times and today the seat of the country’s archbishop. We have a guided tour of the famous neoclassical basilica, standing sentinel over the Danube on the border with Slovakia, and boasting one of the world’s largest altarpieces and a wealth of priceless religious artefacts.The castle is also worth exploring; it was the seat of government until the Ottomans invaded in the 16th century. Nestling below are myriad atmospheric churches resonating with the enchanting sounds of choir; this is the best of provincial Hungary and is little changed since Habsburg times.As you enjoy your first lunch on board we gently leave Esztergom in our wake, affording a fascinating opportunity to compare the different landscapes, towns and villages of Hungary on one riverbank and of Slovakia on the other.

Slovakia

Bratislava

Bratislava - This morning we explore Slovakia’s fast-emerging capital city, Bratislava, on a guided tour. Until recently swathed in the drab uniformity of Communism, the city has rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its beautifully restored Old Town.Discover the only preserved gate of the city’s fortification system, the Neo-Renaissance-style Old Opera House, St. Martin’s Cathedral - a Gothic structure from the 15th century and former coronation site - along with the Classicist Primate’s Palace.In the Main Square, you will find the former old town hall now housing a museum dedicated to the history of the city and where you may climb the tower for some lovely views. Equally impressive is the great 17th-century fortress which dominates the city with its commanding expansive views across the Danube. Or head for the Primatial Palace with its fabulous Hall of Mirrors and rare collection of 17th-century English tapestries.Like its people, the streets are filled with humour. For a more leisurely visit, why not wander its streets? As you explore, you'll spot funny signs and interesting and imaginative statues - like the Čumil, a bronze statue peeking out of a manhole, and the jolly-looking Schöne Náci. Then perhaps, enjoy a freshly ground coffee or homemade lemonade in one of the many bars of cafés.This afternoon we cruise into Lower Austria, a peaceful, bucolic region and home to some of the country’s best wines. By now the stresses of everyday life seem distant as you absorb the ever-changing scenes, we pass children playing on the riverbanks, young couples strolling arm in arm like generations before them, vignerons carefully pruning their vines, and cobbled quaysides lined by half-timbered buildings.You’ll marvel as the captain skilfully navigates the ship along the serene river and through locks whose mechanisms never cease to fascinate, as we cruise towards Dürnstein.

Austria

Melk

Dürnstein & Melk - Dürnstein is known principally for the ice-blue tower of its abbey, which dominates the view, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his return from the crusades. This morning, we embark on a guided walking tour to delve deeper into this unforgettable city.Wander the town's small, pedestrian streets to the heart of Dürnstein to see the Town Hall. Established in 1547, it boasts an impressive late Gothic structure that was tastefully renovated in the Renaissance style in 1563. The courtyard, graced by a charming stairway, invites passersby to pause and capture the perfect photograph amidst its historical ambiance.The Krems Gate, formerly known as the Steiner Gate, serves as the eastern city entrance. This magnificent gate features a striking four-story square tower dating back to the 15th century, a testament to the city's rich architectural heritage. The strong city wall stretches southward toward the banks of the Danube and northward to the evocative ruins, today, the impressive tower is a private residence.If you're feeling active this morning, you could join our optional walk up to see Dürnstein castle, set on a rocky outcrop high above the river. Although the walk up this steep hill is not for the faint-hearted, those who do take on this challenge have the opportunity to admire lovely views of the river valley and town below. At the top, you can explore the ruins of the castle where England’s legendary monarch was held captive. It's easy to imagine Richard the Lionheart seething with frustration far from home while waiting for his family to raise funds to pay his ransom. (Please note, this requires a good level of mobility and appropriate footwear.) After lunch you visit the remarkable Melk Abbey. Nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of this enormous honey-coloured building, standing resplendent above the surrounding countryside. Originally a castle, it was gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th-century and, although reconstructed in Baroque style during the 18th century, it has remained a monastic school and monastery ever since.The Abbey is renowned for its 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery lined with portraits, many fine rooms and an ornate library.After the tour, explore the grounds or take a stroll back to the ship through the picturesque old town, with buildings dating back to the 15th century.After we re-join the ship, dinner is served during the final part of our cruise upstream through the pretty Nibelungengau, immortalised in the music of Wagner.

Austria

Salzburg

Salzburg or Linz - Reaching Linz, you will have the choice to stay in the city and take a guided walking tour, exploring its charming Baroque old town. At its heart you’ll see one of the finest squares in Austria, lined by grand pastel-coloured facades with an impressive central Trinity Column of white marble, crowned by a gilded sunburst. There’s also the fortress-like castle, built above the city by Emperor Friedrich III, now a museum housing a fine collection of nineteenth and twentieth-century artworks.The afternoon is free for you to explore. Consider taking a ride on the Pöstlingbergbahn, a unique narrow-gauge electric railway known as the "mountain tramway." This train connects the main square in Linz with the district of Pöstlingberg. It is the steepest adhesion railway in Europe, and its route offers stunning views as it passes the Danube and the Ars Electronica Center, leading directly to a natural oasis on the outskirts of the city. Once you arrive, you can visit the pilgrimage basilica, enjoy the views of Linz from the viewing platform, explore a local zoo, and much more.Alternatively, you could explore one of the fascinating museums in Linz. The Ars Electronica Center (AEC) serves as the city’s museum of the future, showcasing innovative technology alongside visionary media arts. Additionally, the Lentos Kunstmuseum features exhibits of modern and contemporary art from the 19th century, including works from the classical modernity period (such as Klimt, Schiele, and Kokoschka) as well as pieces from the Expressionism movement. Alternatively, we drive to Salzburg, once an independent state whose archbishops turned it into one of the most sophisticated cities north of the Alps. Dominating the skyline is one of Europe’s largest stone fortresses, the Hohensalzburg, while beneath its walls church domes and spires rise from the delightful Altstadt, or Old Town. Then there’s the wonderful Hellbrunn Palace and the splendid formal gardens of the Mirabell Palace – a must for horticulture fans.This morning, discover some of the city’s main sights in the company of an expert local guide, then you’re free for lunch at leisure and to explore as you wish. Everywhere there are sights associated with the city’s most famous resident, Mozart, who played the harpsichord aged three, composed rudimentary music at five and wrote his first opera when he was 11!We return to the ship for another splendid dinner.

Austria

Vienna

Vienna - For many, today’s visit to Vienna will be one of the highlights of the cruise. The city’s very name provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of peoples who were drawn here from all corners of Europe.For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline.There’s also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world’s fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road.This morning we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses. After the panoramic tour on coach along the Ringstrasse, the famous boulevard, built where the city walls once stood and lined with many of the most important sights, you can choose to continue your tour on foot through the old town or explore independently.During the afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Take a stroll in the Prater, notable for the huge Ferris wheel that features in several Cold War spy thrillers. Or, for something quite different, visit the Schönbrunn Palace, a former royal residence now housing a range of world-class museums and galleries. Perhaps, though, just take a stroll through Vienna’s atmospheric side streets, or enjoy a coffee and a slice of delicious Sachertorte in one of the lovely coffee houses.This evening we have something special in store. Not only do we have our indulgent Chef's Dinner, but we've also organised for a live musical experience on board. So after this special dinner, sit back and enjoy an intimate classical recital. To hear this exquisite music in Vienna - where it was created - is truly the icing on the cake.Personalise your holiday -Visit the Spanish Riding School in ViennaDuration: 1hrPrice: £33pp (2026) and £35pp (2027)Enjoy a visit to the Spanish Riding School, the only institution in the world that has practiced classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the haute école for over 440 years and continues to do so. On this guided tour you will get a glimpse behind the scenes, see the stables of the Lippizaner horses, the training grounds and learn about the history, equestrian traditions and horses. Please note for 6 weeks in summer, the horses are on their holiday, therefore you won’t see any during the tour.This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna.This guided tour doesn’t include a performance of horses. Other available events like the morning training sessions and performances vary depending on the day of the week of your visit and season. Details can be found on www.srs.at/en/tickets-events/ where we recommend you book your tickets directly prior to travel.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.Please note: Private transport is not included. City shuttles are available or a private transfers can be arranged via the Cruise Director.Personalise your holiday -Guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace & gardens in ViennaDuration: 4hrsPrice: £65pp (2026) and £74pp (2027)Join us for a tour of Schönbrunn Palace with a local guide. Once a summer residence in the countryside, Schönbrunn now serves as an oasis of architectural beauty and tranquillity in the heart of 21st-century Vienna, thanks to the city's expansion. On our guided tour we’ll see the palace’s highlights, including the state rooms and private apartments of the Habsburg emperors.Besides the tour of the palace, you will also see the impressive grounds, walking along the main avenue to the aptly named "beautiful" fountain. You will have some free time to explore at leisure, before returning to the ship.This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Hungary

Budapest

Budapest - Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise majestically through Hungary’s peaceful pastoral landscape towards Budapest. After breakfast head up onto the magnificent sun deck to enjoy some fabulous river views as we cruise along the 'Danube Bend', surrounded by historic and picturesque cities like Visegrad and Szentendre. Castle ruins, churches, pretty houses perching on the hills, and thick forests are reflected in the waters of the river. Squeeze in a spot of reading on the sun deck or simply recline, letting the gentle breezes lull you into a relaxing doze.After lunch we enjoy a sightseeing tour of this captivating city, which truly lives up to its reputation as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’.The twin cities of Buda, built around the hilltop fortress, and Pest, with its wide boulevards, were fought over through the centuries. The Ottomans ruled here for 150 years before being ousted in the late 17th century, but their legacy lives on in the many thermal baths fed by hot springs, giving rise to Budapest’s other sobriquet – the ‘City of Spas’.After the end of Ottoman rule, Budapest became an imperial city of the Habsburg Empire, attracting great cultural and commercial wealth. Castle Hill is Budapest in microcosm: two churches, seven museums and a theatre among streets and squares with their own special atmosphere and a dramatic view across the river to the awe-inspiring neo-Gothic Parliament Building.This afternoon you have a couple of choices:If you choose the panoramic coach tour, you’ll drive past some of Budapest’s famous sites, including the Opera House, Gellert Baths, chain bridge, Parliament building, and more, and stop for photos and some time to explore at Hero’s Square and Buda castle.Alternatively, you can choose our active tour, where you’ll take a coach to the castle district. From here, you’ll take lifts up to the castle terraces to begin a guided walking tour around the castle area and Fisherman’s bastion. You’ll then have free time to explore before heading back to the coach for the transfer to the ship. This tour involves uneven grounds and a lot of walking so we only recommend it for customers who are comfortable with a moderate activity level.This evening’s dinner closes with a Hungarian folklore show, giving you time to bid farewell to your travelling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights and sounds you have experienced on a truly ‘imperial’ cruise.

Hungary

Budapest

Return home - Flight time permitting, enjoy free time in Budapest before your journey home.

Overview

Soak up all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand Baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart.

Follow the Blue Danube through the heart of imperial Europe, where grand capitals, vineyard-clad valleys and centuries of history line its banks. Discover the twin charms of Budapest, wander the elegant streets of Vienna, and explore the characterful Slovak capital, Bratislava. Along the way, sail through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, pass hilltop castles and storybook towns, and immerse yourself in the music, culture and traditions that have shaped this remarkable region. From classical recitals and folklore performances to ever-changing river views, this is the Danube at its most captivating.

Suite

Grand Balcony Suite - Diamond Deck

Designed for the ultimate in space and comfort, the Grand Suites are our biggest-ever cabins at an impressive 32 square metres. Relax in a separate living space, which features a sofa, chair and table, or enjoy a siesta on your king-sized bed.

Our Grand Suites are finished to an exceptional standard with superior quality fittings. Each features a private exterior balcony with outdoor seating — superb for dining al fresco, a sundown cocktail, or watching riverside life drift by.

Every suite is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, a desk, double wardrobe, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows with outside balcony and seating
  • Twin or king beds
  • Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
  • Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Desk & chair
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

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Suite

Superior Suite - Diamond Deck

Measuring 24 square metres, our spacious Superior Suites feature a floor-to-ceiling French balcony. Relax in a separate living space, which features a sofa, chair and table, and watch the world go by.

Our Superior Suites are finished to a superb standard with superior quality fittings. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower.

Every suite is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, a desk, double wardrobe, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin or double beds
  • Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Desk & chair
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

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Suite

Superior Suite - Ruby Deck

Measuring 24 square metres, our spacious Superior Suites are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony. Relax in a separate living space, which features a sofa, chair and table, and watch the world go by.

Our Superior Suites are finished to a superb standard with superior quality fittings. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower.

Every suite is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, a desk, double wardrobe, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Desk & chair
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge

Outside

Double Cabin - Diamond Deck

At 16 square metres, our well-appointed Double Cabins are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony, bringing riverside life just that little closer. A full-sized double bed or twin beds ensure a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen.

Careful consideration has been given to ensure a familiar home-from-home experience. Every cabin is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance. 

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin or double beds
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

Outside

Double Cabin - Ruby Deck

At 16 square metres, our well-appointed Double Cabins are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony, bringing riverside life just that little closer. A full-sized double bed or twin beds ensure a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen.

Careful consideration has been given to ensure a familiar home-from-home experience. Every cabin is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin or double beds
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

Outside

Double Cabin - Emerald Deck

At 16 square metres, our well-appointed Double Cabins are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony, so you can admire uninterrupted riverside views from the comfort of your cabin. Beds can be arranged as a double or twin, depending on your needs.

Careful consideration has been given to ensure a familiar home-from-home experience. Every cabin is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Double Cabins on the Emerald Deck have a small fixed window.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Twin or double beds
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

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wine

Main Restaurant

The Ruby Deck is where you’ll find the ship’s main restaurant, an elegant setting where seasonal menus are thoughtfully paired with wines from our carefully curated list, including a fine selection of regional favourites. Our friendly crew are always on hand to offer recommendations or accommodate different dietary requirements. Simply relax and savour the experience, surrounded by tables set for just 4 or 6 guests and rich wood panelling, creating a sophisticated dining atmosphere.

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casual

Riverview Kitchen

Located at the stern is the Riverview Kitchen, available at no extra charge for lunch and dinner. With its open kitchen, panoramic windows and al fresco seating, it offers a more intimate dining experience. In the evenings, it takes inspiration from a traditional grill restaurant, perfect for an informal and delicious meal.  

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Bar, Lounge

Panorama Lounge and Bar

At the heart of the ship, the Diamond Deck is home to the welcoming Panorama Lounge and Bar. From here, you can take in ever-changing views, watching charming villages and riverside life as they drift past. As the day draws to a close, guests naturally gather here to share stories from the day’s discovery. Return after dinner to enjoy a digestif and the evening’s entertainment.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

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Reception

Cruise Director and Reception

Located on the Ruby Deck is the lobby area, where your Cruise Director is usually on hand, while the reception desk is staffed 24 hours a day should you need assistance. Nearby, our boutique shop is lovely for a browse.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Up on the Sun Deck, life glides by to a sun-drenched rhythm. Settle into a comfortable lounger and admire the scenery, sip a cocktail, or cool off with a refreshing dip in the plunge pool when the day warms up. It’s the perfect place to relax.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

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Spa, Wellness

Wellness Area

On the Emerald Deck you’ll find the fitness centre, ideal for working off those indulgent meals. For something relaxing, why not treat yourself to a soothing massage in the spa?

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.