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Sail the historic Danube on an unforgettable year-end voyage combining the charms of Melk’s Benedictine Abbey, the ancient medieval center of Linz, and Passau’s historic Old Town. Greet the New Year in Budapest, a city that charms from both sides of the river.
Arrive in Vienna and be transferred to the ship.
Day 2 - Vienna
Once the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and forever known for its manicured gardens, ornate architecture – especially that of the famed Ringstrasse – and distinguished roster of composers who either were born or lived here, Vienna finds itself at the very center of European culture, even as it sits near the border of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary.
Day 3 - Melk
Best known for its fortified baroque Benedictine monastery, Melk Abbey, the town of Melk boasts an assortment of smaller gems.
Among them, the city’s riverside location, serene and regal with a ribbon of wooded groves giving way to the lovely village.
Cobbled lanes and a petite size make for a pleasant stroll with a chance to discover its 16th-century Town Hall, or Rathaus, in the center of town, and Haus am Stein, or House at the Rock.
Built in the 15th century, the vine-covered abode is Melk’s oldest building.
Day 4 - Linz
Named the European Capital of Culture in 2009 and added to the roster of UNESCO Creative Cities as a City of Media Arts in 2014, Linz embraces the present and future, with reverence to its past.
The city’s layout reflects its history, with an ancient medieval center encircled by neoclassical, neo-baroque and neo-Renaissance neighborhoods.
Day 5 - Vilshofen
A skyline graced by the spire of a historic church and the arch of a more modern bridge reveals the essence of Vilshofen’s appeal.
Here where three rivers meet – the Vils, Wolfach and Danube – you’ll enjoy cycling expeditions on pretty paths and hikes in the neighboring Bavarian forest.
Day 6 - Regensburg
Situated at the northernmost bend of the Danube and boasting a well-preserved medieval center, charming Regensburg finds itself not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a traveler’s favorite destination.
With its 1,400 or so ancient buildings standing as regal testament to days gone by, this riverside treasure, complete with elaborate cathedral, quintessential clock tower, multi-arched bridge and multi-faceted personality, is a flourishing city.
Day 7 - Passau
At the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is also situated at a meeting of cultures. The town began as a Roman settlement, enjoying the rising tide of influence as the largest bishopric in the Holy Roman Empire and enduringly vibrant as a hub for various trade pursuits, including salt, swords and ideas.
Wander the cobbled streets of Old Town, gaze upon arched bridges and Italianate manses and visit magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral and New Bishop’s Residence.
Day 8 - Bratislava
This buzzing capital city is the heartbeat of Slovakia; a historic gem that stirs the imagination.
A maze of cobblestone streets winds around 18th-century buildings and a pulsating modern art scene.
Explore the museums, cathedrals and palaces, and relax at a shade-covered sidewalk café. Photography buffs will want to snap images of the medieval castle looming high above the city.
Day 9 & 10 - Budapest
Commanding both sides of the Danube – with the Chain Bridge connecting hilly Buda with flat Pest – Hungary’s capital enchants with its magnificent architecture of domes and spires, 18th-century homes, bridges and lampposts.
The UNESCO-listed Castle Hill welcomes all to explore Buda Castle, Trinity Square, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.
Day 11 - Budapest (Disembark)
After breakfast this morning, begin your journey home.
Renowned as one of The World’s Most Luxurious River Cruise Line™, Crystal River Cruises has the largest and most spacious ship on Europe’s rivers, ushering in a new era of luxury in the river cruising industry.
With a focus on more overnight stays and longer days in port to maximize guests’ authentic experience in each destination, Crystal River Cruises showcases Europe’s most fascinating and fairytale locales. The Crystal fleet has four identical ships, Crystal Bach, Crystal Debussy, Crystal Mahler and Crystal Ravel, which offer voyages along the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. All-suite, All-Panoramic window balcony river ships in Europe, with every category of accommodations situated above the water line.
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