Summary
Short description
Discover the delights of the Danube in style on an all-inclusive Uniworld river cruise
Highlights
- Savour panoramic views of the Danube and Hungarian Parliament from Budapest’s Castle Hill
- Tour Vienna’s grand palaces and enjoy a private concert of Mozart and Strauss in a historic setting
- Explore the magical Wachau Valley magic including the storybook town of Dürnstein and the famed Melk Abbey
- Venture ashore to Linz, or continue to Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, set in a breathtaking alpine landscape
- Wander through Passau, where three rivers converge, and behold one of Europe’s largest pipe organs
In pictures
About
Recommended for:
History & culture | River cruise
Sail through the heart of Central Europe on this elegant Uniworld river cruise from Budapest to Passau, aboard the beautifully appointed S.S. Maria Theresa. Over eight unforgettable days, you’ll meander along the Danube and explore the region’s most iconic cities, from the grandeur of Budapest and Vienna to charming riverside towns such as Dürnstein and Melk. Discover baroque abbeys, imperial palaces, verdant vineyards, and Alpine landscapes, all while enjoying Uniworld’s signature service, with fine dining, drinks and cultural immersion included.
Day by day itinerary
Day
1
Fly to Budapest
Relax with included UK airport lounge access before flying to Budapest, Hungary’s “Queen of the Danube". On arrival, transfer to the S.S. Maria Theresa and settle into your elegant riverside floating hotel. Later, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner as the ship gently glides away, offering your first impressions of this charismatic city.
Stay: SS Maria Theresa
Meals: D
Day
2
Budapest
Spend a full day discovering Budapest. Choose between a panoramic city highlights tour – including the majestic Hungarian Parliament, Castle Hill, and Fisherman’s Bastion – or a more intimate walk infused with local treats. In the evening, dive deeper into Budapest’s rich cultural heritage on a “Masterpiece Collection” experience exploring the city’s Jewish Quarter.
Stay: SS Maria Theresa
Meals: B L D
Day
3
Bratislava to Vienna
After breakfast, arrive in Bratislava, Slovakia’s compact and charming capital. Options include a guided walking tour, a hike to the castle overlooking the Danube, or a thought-provoking “Life beyond the Iron Curtain” experience. Later, reboard the ship for a scenic sail to Vienna. In the evening, enjoy an exclusive private Mozart and Strauss concert in a Viennese palace.
Stay: SS Maria Theresa
Meals: B L D
Day
4
Vienna
Discover the imperial grandeur of Vienna with a guided tour — including the Art History Museum and other iconic landmarks. Choose to explore the city’s culinary side with a walking tour, or enjoy an after-hours visit to Schönbrunn Palace.
Stay: SS Maria Theresa
Meals: B L D
Day
5
Dürnstein & Melk
Cruise into the enchanting Wachau Valley. In Dürnstein, you might hike up to the ruined castle or stroll through the picturesque village, and even delve into the world of saffron at a local workshop. Then, visit Melk Abbey – a Benedictine masterpiece – to admire its baroque library and dramatic architecture.
Stay: SS Maria Theresa
Meals: B L D
Day
6
Linz (Salzburg)
Arrive in Linz, a city that blends tradition and creativity. You can choose a walking tour through the historic old town or venture into the countryside to visit a family-run farm. For those who wish to explore further, there is an option to continue to Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, for a full Alpine immersion.
Stay: SS Maria Theresa
Meals: B L D
Day
7
Passau
Dock in Passau, the “City of Three Rivers.” Here, take a guided walking tour through the old town, marvel at the stunning cathedral (home to one of Europe’s largest pipe organs), or opt for a more active riverside hike.
Stay: SS Maria Theresa
Meals: B L D
Day
8
Depart for UK
After breakfast, bid farewell to your floating hotel. Disembark in Passau and, transfer to Munich Airport for your flight home.
Map
Pricing
Any element of this cruise can be adjusted to suit your needs. Just contact us to find out more.
Prices
Accommodation rating:
8-day luxury river cruise
from £1,995 pp incl. flights
Save up to £750 pp on selected dates
Book by: 26 November 2025
Special offers:
- Save up to £750 pp on selected dates in 2026 - e.g.:
- 21 & 28 June 2026 from £1,995 pp
- Save up to 20% on selected dates in 2027 - price from £2,595 pp
Includes:
- Return scheduled flights from the UK
- Transfers on arrival and departure days
- 7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom aboard S.S. Maria Theresa
- All meals onboard, including welcome dinner and gala dinner
- Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water
- 6 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
- Internet and wi-fi access
- State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
- Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
- Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
- Butler service in suites
Departures most Sundays from late March to November. The itinerary operates in reverse on alternate weeks.
Terms & Conditions: Prices are per person based on two people sharing a twin/double room; prices are subject to availability and possible change; normal booking conditions apply.
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