Grand Danube Passage – Prague to Sofia

Arrive at Prague airport where a representative will meet you. Transfer to the elegant Art Deco Imperial Hotel located in the heart of Prague. Take time to unpack and rejuvenate before meeting your fellow passengers at a Welcome Reception later this evening.

Prague greets visitors with an arresting hilltop castle and spires that pierce the skyline. Begin your discovery of this storybook city, viewing the iconic Old Town Horologe with its 15th-century astronomical clock. Continue along the imposing Charles Bridge. This remarkable Gothic stone bridge spans the Vltava River and is bordered by dozens of statues. On the left bank, the Castle District, or the historical center, consists of Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and a patchwork of winding cobbled streets.

Delve into Prague’s regal history today with (1) a visit to Lobkowicz Palace and Museum featuring stunning masterpieces, works of art and musical instruments from the 12th-20th centuries, (2) a tour of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter and the Prague National Jewish Museum, a showcase of religious treasures or (3) an art nouveau and cubist walking tour that delves into the unique angles, geometric patterns and textures of these architectural styles.

With its Italian-style architecture, gentle rolling hills and position at the confluence of the Danube, Ilz and Inn rivers, Passau is called “one of the most beautifully situated towns in the world.” Highlights of this romantic city include Niedernburg Abbey, the medieval Veste Oberhaus and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Embark your river ship and kick off the cruise with a Welcome Aboard Reception and Dinner.

From Melk’s extraordinary Benedictine abbey to Dürnstein’s traditional romance, you’ll be treated to mesmerizing history and heritage today. Choose from (1) a walking tour of Dürnstein, where King Richard the Lionheart of England was held captive during the Crusades, (2) a leisurely bike ride along a portion of the 745-mile Danube Bicycle Trail or (3) a visit to a winery to enjoy samples from its cellar.

The vibrancy of Vienna echoes in its grand facades and timeless sights. Discover this elegant city for yourself by choosing from (1) a tour of the Imperial Apartments of Hofburg Palace, plus the Houses of Parliament and the Opera House, (2) a visit to Klosterneuburg and its 12th-century monastery, home to the gilded copper Verdun Altar or (3) a tour of the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former residence of the imperial family. Tonight, stretch your legs during a waltz lesson on the ship.

After a talk about the Velvet Revolution, choose from (1) a walking tour of enchanting Bratislava, plus a visit to a local café, (2) a walking tour of Bratislava’s Old Town, exploring venues associated with Mozart, Beethoven and Hummel, and a performance by a young musician or (3) a leisurely bike tour along the Danube and Slovak-Austrian border, once part of the Iron Curtain.

The grandeur of this Austro-Hungarian Empire packs a serious punch! Choose from (1) a deep dive into the history of Budapest with visits to Heroes’ Square, the Opera House and the Gothic-style Parliament Building, (2) a guided tour of Budapest’s bustling Great Market Hall, built in the 19th century or (3) a tour of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter beginning at the Great Synagogue. As your ship departs this evening, delight in the sparkling, awe-inspiring panoramas of Budapest.

Pécs lies at the southern end of the Mecsek Mountains and is recognized for its Roman ruins and Ottoman mosques, including the green copper domed mosque which has been converted into a Catholic church. Cross into Croatia and visit Rural House for a sampling of locally made products; then continue to Osijek, a village with an impressive collection of baroque buildings, and visit neighboring Vukovar. Rejoin the ship and sail on to Belgrade.

From its strategic location at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, Belgrade boasts a rich legacy. Choose from (1) a visit to Kalemegdan Citadel, Belgrade’s cultural heart (2) an introduction into delicious Serbian gastronomy, including a hearty feast of minced meats, sweet treats and local wines or (3) a trip to the Nikola Tesla Museum to learn about the life and work of this great physicist and inventor. After dinner, enjoy an engaging folk show on the ship.

Sail through the Carpathian Mountains and the towering cliffs and deep canyons of the Iron Gate Gorge, one of Europe’s most magnificent natural wonders. On your way to Bulgaria, gather for Frühschoppen, a fun German mid-morning tradition! Dig into a spread of Brezeln (pretzels), Weißwurst (sausages), mustards and beer. This evening join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Aboard Reception and Dinner.

Say farewell to your crew as you disembark the ship; then, get to know one of Bulgaria’s oldest towns on a panoramic tour. This off-the-beaten-path destination offers several treats for the unassuming visitor. Visit the 17th-century St. Panteleimon Church and the well-preserved Baba Vida Fortress, complete with a draw bridge, a courtyard and a medieval prison. After lunch with a striking view of the Belogradchik Rocks, transfer to Sofia and check in to the Sofia Hotel Balkan.

A local expert presents a comprehensive overview of the Bulgarian Revival. After, set off to see how this capital city delights visitors with museums, green spaces, food venues and street art. Witness the unearthed remains of the Roman city of Serdica, and admire the architecture of St. George Rotunda, Alexander Battenberg Square and the Cathedral of St. Alexander of Neva. Later, join your fellow travelers for a Farewell Reception and Dinner.