Danube Dreams
This 7-night River Cruise through Central Europe offers a fantastic way to see the historic heart of the continent without the hassle of moving between hotels. Your Danube Dreams tour begins with a flight from Dublin, taking you to the vibrant city of Munich before you join your ship in Germany. From here, you will glide along the waters of one of the world’s most famous rivers, visiting Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary in one organised trip.
The Avalon Illumination, or one of its sister ships, provides a comfortable and modern base for your holiday. These ships are famous for their Panorama Suites, which feature floor-to-ceiling windows that open wide to create an open-air balcony. This allows you to enjoy the fresh river air and the passing scenery right from your bed. Onboard, everything is organised for your convenience. You will enjoy gourmet breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks served during your midday and evening meals. There is even a daily Happy Hour where you can socialise with fellow travellers over a complimentary drink or cocktail.
The itinerary is packed with interest but remains relaxed. In Passau, you can see where three rivers meet or hike with your Adventure Host. In Linz, stroll through Austria’s largest medieval square. One of the highlights is sailing through the Wachau Valley, a stunning stretch of river lined with vineyards and castles. You will visit the impressive Melk Abbey and have the chance to explore Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive during the Crusades.
As the cruise continues, you will arrive in Vienna, the city of music. Here, you can choose to see the imperial sights like the Opera House or visit the Museum of Fine Arts. The journey then takes you to Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, before reaching the final destination: Budapest. Known for its iconic Parliament building and thermal baths, Budapest is a city of two halves, and you will have ample time to discover both Buda and Pest. With return flights, airport transfers, 20kg of checked luggage, and onboard gratuities all included in the price, this holiday offers excellent value for money for Irish travellers looking for a stress-free escape.
What is included in the price of the cruise?
Can I upgrade my cabin to a suite?
Are the excursions included in the cost?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights from Dublin to Munich / Budapest to Dublin or vice versa
- Return airport transfers
- 7 nights onboard 5-star Avalon Illumination, Impression, Tranquility II or Passion
- Gourmet cuisine with breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner onboard
- Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Happy Hour every evening serving complimentary drinks and cocktails
- Your preference of Classic or Active included excursions and sightseeing
- Onboard gratuities included
- Club Lounge with 24-hour complimentary hot beverages & snacks
- Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi
- 20kg checked-in bag per person
Itinerary
1Arrival in Munich and Boarding+
Fly from Dublin to Munich, where you will be met and transferred to your ship. After settling into your cabin, spend the evening exploring the ship's facilities and enjoying your first dinner onboard as you set sail towards Passau.
2Passau and the Three Rivers+
In Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet, choose between a guided city walk through cobblestone streets or a more active hike from Oberhaus along the Ilz River. After some free time to visit the local galleries, enjoy a scenic afternoon cruise through the dramatic Schlögen Oxbow.
3Discovering Linz on your Danube Dreams tour+
Arrive in Linz for a guided walk through the historic centre, featuring Austria's largest medieval square. You might opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov, or enjoy a peaceful bike ride along the riverbanks before the ship departs for Ybbs.
4Melk Abbey and the Wachau Valley+
Visit the magnificent Benedictine Abbey in Melk to admire its ornate library and frescoes. Later, sail through the vineyard-rich Wachau Valley to Dürnstein. Here, you can hike to the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was once held or join a guided walk through the village.
5Imperial Sights of Vienna+
Spend the day in the Austrian capital. Choose a city tour taking in the Opera House and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or visit the Museum of Fine Arts. In the evening, there is an optional Royal Waltz Concert, offering an authentic taste of Viennese musical culture in an elegant local hall.
6Bratislava's Old Town+
Arrive in Slovakia's capital for a guided walk through the quaint streets of the Old Town. You can also choose to hike up to Bratislava Castle with your Adventure Host for panoramic views of the city. Enjoy free time to explore the city's green spaces before sailing for Hungary.
7The Beauty of Budapest+
Experience the highlights of Budapest with a guided tour of Heroes’ Square and the iconic Parliament building. In the afternoon, explore the famous Chain Bridge on foot, visit a local café for a slice of cake, or hike through the hills overlooking the Danube.
8Final Breakfast and Departure+
Enjoy a final breakfast onboard before disembarking the ship. You will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, concluding your memorable journey through the heart of Central Europe.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20 Oct 2026 | Westbound | €2,349 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Oct 2026 | Single | €2,349 | Enquire Now |
| 27 Oct 2026 | Westbound | €2,399 | Enquire Now |
| 30 Oct 2026 | Westbound | €2,399 | Enquire Now |
| 10 Nov 2026 | Westbound | €2,249 | Enquire Now |
| 10 Nov 2026 | Single | €2,249 | Enquire Now |
| 13 Nov 2026 | Westbound | €2,249 | Enquire Now |
| 17 Nov 2026 | Eastbound | €2,249 | Enquire Now |
| 17 Nov 2026 | Single | €3,256 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Nov 2026 | Eastbound | €2,399 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: AV
