Iconic Danube - Scenic River Cruise

a storybook landscape...

an unforgettable river cruise

Take in the highlights of the iconic Danube River on this compact eight-day cruise that combines culture, history and spectacular landscapes.

This fantastic itinerary, will take you wandering through castles (some crumbling, some that stand the test of time), step inside a 900-year-old abbey in Melk, learn about Europe’s tumultuous history and WWII atrocities, cycle and hike through bucolic landscapes, breathe in panoramic views in Linz, Durnstein and Budapest, and sample local delicacies such as Slovak coffee and cake.

Boasting a storybook landscape of charming villages, ancient castles and rolling countryside, set alongside cities and towns that have been shaped by staggering histories, the Danube makes for an unforgettable river cruise. 

All the things you need to know

Welcome to Passau, where your cruise begins. Toast to the occasion during an evening reception on board your state-of-the-art Scenic Space-Ship. 

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, which was commonly known as ‘white gold’. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue and black hues where the waters meet.

Today you will explore the Baroque city of Passau, a 13th century Italianate Old Town packed with tight laneways tunnels and archways. The city is also home to an ‘Artist’s Mile’ where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops and galleries.

Wake in the city of Linz, known for its vibrant music and arts scene, beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture, and relaxed lifestyle. The city’s quaint old town and Main Square are resplendent in Baroque architecture, while its harbour doubles as an outdoor street art gallery and the cutting-edge Ars Electronica Centre is known as the ‘museum of the future’.

This morning your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in Melk, a small and picturesque town located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. The city’s breath-taking UNESCO-listed Benedictine Abbey built high over the city is the most spectacular building in the region.

We arrive in Vienna early this morning, Austria’s imperial capital. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. This city oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.

Spend the morning on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship as you cruise towards the Slovakian capital, Bratislava. Sit on the Sun Deck with a coffee in hand and enjoy the scenery of riverside villages or take the opportunity to visit the wellness centre for a soothing massage.

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious, with medieval and Gothic architecture, and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.

This morning you will arrive in Budapest, one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant capitals. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths, and has a vibrant nightlife scene.

Your journey ends in beautiful Budapest. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your onward journey. 

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.

  • Over a glass of Austrian ‘sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, enjoy a private classical Viennese concert
  • Spend a full day in the Austrian city of Linz where you have a range of sightseeing activities to choose from
  • Cycle past small villages and vineyards from Melk to Dürnstein by e-bike
  • Taste the regional specialties of the Wachau Valley with a local producer on board your Scenic Space-Ship
  • See the iconic sites of Budapest including Buda Hill, the Parliament Building and Heroes Square
  • Dock in the heart of Bratislava and explore this hidden gem on the Danube
  • Tailor your journey with a variety of Scenic Freechoice including Active, Your way excursions, Moments, Masters & Music activities and Interactive Encounters
  • 5-Star Scenic Space-Ships with up to 163 guests
  • Your choice of spacious Standard Suite, or a Balcony Suite with an innovative Scenic Sun Lounge
  • 1 Scenic Enrich experience with an enchanting private classical evening concert at Palais Liechtenstein – Exclusive to Scenic
  • Personalise your trip with 17 included Scenic Freechoice activities
  • Enjoy a choice of up to five on board dining experiences, from casual to fine dining
  • 20 meals – 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L) and 7 dinners (D)
  • Complimentary premium beverages all day, every day* – not just at meal times
  • Butler service for every suite
  • Complimentary full mini-bar restocked daily
  • Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge and fitness area
  • Scenic Tailormade App for river commentary and independent exploration
  • The freedom of our e-bikes – electrically assisted bicycles
  • Scenic Cruise Director to guide and assist & expert local guides
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your cruise
  • Return airport transfers^
  • All tipping and gratuities on board and on shore

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We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.

Let's Chat

We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.