Tauck
Danube Kingdoms: Bavaria, Austria & Hungary
Danube Kingdoms: Bavaria, Austria & Hungary
Explore Habsburg castles, medieval wine-towns, alpine peaks and lakes, Baroque monasteries, and enchanting cities on a 12-day journey through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary, discovering hidden treasures on and off the beaten paths, including a 7-night cruise on the Danube, the river of kings.
Spend 12 unforgettable days in the heart of Europe, exploring Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary on a Danube odyssey of cosmopolitan cities, medieval villages, castles, cathedrals, wineries, ruins, and abbeys. Immerse in the opulence of the royal Residenz at Munich, or make a pilgrimage to BMW’s ultramodern car museum. Take a train-ride to the clouds and the Top of Germany for breathtaking views of alpine peaks and glaciers. Discover the soul of Bavarian beer at Weltenberg Abbey, marvel at Oberammergau’s parade of medieval painted houses, and lose yourself in the Romanticism of Mad King Ludwig’s fairytale castles. Sail through the Wachau Valley, the heart of Austrian wine country, with tastings along the way. Enjoy a gala evening of dinner, music, and pageantry at a palace in Vienna, for Tauck guests only. Drink in the eccentric spirit of Bratislava, its colorful history, and eclectic architecture on a walking tour with local guides, and enjoy an evening of Slovakian cuisine, music, and dance. In Budapest, find a feast for the senses around every corner, bursting with medieval castles and monuments, romantic Parisian-style architecture and elegance, and a vibrant, cosmopolitan spirit. Best of all, a river runs through it.
| Day 1 |
This popular river cruise stop sits at the German-Austrian border and is the last major German city on the Danube before entering Austria. Passau sits on the confluence of the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz, so it is fitting that it is known as "the Dreiflüssestadt", which means the “City of Three Rivers.” The historical center offers a cathedral, churches and museums to explore, and the embankment is perfect for a romantic stroll. For those looking to get the blood pumping, there is a cycling path from Passau all the way to Vienna. |
| Day 2 |
Munich is known for its architecture, fine culture, the annual Oktoberfest beer celebration, its vibrant cultural scene and its museums. But there is much more to Munich than Oktoberfest! Olympics enthusiasts can marvel over Munich Olympic Stadium, the site of the 1972 Summer Olympics and now a park. Visitors may tour important areas such as the swim hall, stadium and view a poignent memorial to the Israeli athletes who perished during the Games. There is also a "Walk of Stars" around the Olympic Lake with handprints from various musicians who have played the stadium, and a Rock museum at the top of Olympic Tower. If you have an urge to go surfing, Munich has you covered. The manmade Eisbach (German for "ice brook") is a small river that flows through the park known as the Englischer Garten, and contains a wave that surfing enthusiasts may practice their skills on. For traditional Bavarian beauty, don't miss out on Neuschwanstein Castle, one of the most visited castles in Germany. The castle is located in Bavaria, near the town of Fussen. It was built by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as the “Fairytale King”. Christmastime in Munich is nothing short of magical, and each market in the city has something unique to offer whether it is the traditional Neuhauser Strasse market at Marienplatz, the rackus party atmosphere at Tollwood to the charmingly quirky vibe at Schwabing. Nothing will get you in the spirit of the season like sipping a warming cup of Glühwein as you browse the multiple stalls of artisan crafts and traditional German food. |
| Day 3 |
Germany's famed site of the Winter Olympics and World Alpine Ski Championships. |
| Day 4 |
Nestled in the Bavarian Alps, Oberammergau is a charming village in Germany that exudes a timeless allure. Renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, traditional Bavarian architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage, this small town offers an unforgettable experience for visitors. Oberammergau is perhaps best known for its world-famous Passion Play, a tradition that dates back to 1634. Every ten years, the village comes alive with this monumental event, where residents reenact the life and crucifixion of Jesus Christ in a performance that draws audiences from around the globe. The next Passion Play is set to take place in 2030, making it a once-in-a-decade opportunity for travelers to witness this historic spectacle. Beyond its cultural significance, Oberammergau is also a haven for art and craftsmanship. The village is famous for its "Lüftlmalerei," a traditional form of fresco painting that adorns many of the buildings with colorful depictions of religious scenes, folklore, and intricate patterns. Strolling through the streets feels like walking through an open-air museum, with every corner revealing another beautifully painted façade. The town is also home to numerous woodcarving workshops, where you can watch skilled artisans create intricate carvings, a craft that has been passed down through generations. |
| Day 5 |
This popular river cruise stop sits at the German-Austrian border and is the last major German city on the Danube before entering Austria. Passau sits on the confluence of the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz, so it is fitting that it is known as "the Dreiflüssestadt", which means the “City of Three Rivers.” The historical center offers a cathedral, churches and museums to explore, and the embankment is perfect for a romantic stroll. For those looking to get the blood pumping, there is a cycling path from Passau all the way to Vienna. |
| Day 6 |
Midway between Salzburg and Vienna, Linz boasts beautiful Baroque buildings, including Old Town Hall and the Old Cathedral, Alter Dom. Lentos Kunstmuseum Linz has a major modern art collection and across the river, the striking Ars Electronica Center focuses on society, technology, and the future. Some of Austria's most iconic figures, including Adalbert Stifter, composers Wolfgang Mozart and Anton Bruckner, and the famous scientist Johannes Kepler, once called Linz home. |
| Day 7 |
Midway between Salzburg and Vienna, Linz boasts beautiful Baroque buildings, including Old Town Hall and the Old Cathedral, Alter Dom. Lentos Kunstmuseum Linz has a major modern art collection and across the river, the striking Ars Electronica Center focuses on society, technology, and the future. Some of Austria's most iconic figures, including Adalbert Stifter, composers Wolfgang Mozart and Anton Bruckner, and the famous scientist Johannes Kepler, once called Linz home. |
| Day 8 |
West of Vienna, the quaint town of Dürnstein lies on the banks of the iconic Danube and is the perfect destination for river cruising, sightseeing, and enjoying the best of Austrian culture. Though small, this picturesque village offers plenty to see and do. Trace the steps of Richard the Lionheart at the castle ruins of Burgruine Dürnstein, where the twelfth-century English king was once a prisoner. Marvel at the lovely blue tower of Stift Dürnstein monastery. Sample delicious Wachau region wines at Domäne Wachau winery, or feast on authentic Viennese delicacies at one of the town’s many riverside restaurants. Let Dürnstein enchant you on your next trip to Austria! |
| Day 9 |
Classical music, palaces, exhilarating art... and did we mention the coffee? Vienna, Austria is a city of elevated tastes and a must-see experience for any European traveler.
Set on the Danube River, Vienna's attractions include Schönbrunn Palace, The Hofburg, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the public park Prater, which boasts a giant ferris wheel. This modern capital of Austria can be navigated on foot and via public transportation. Though it endured heavy damage during World War II, the character of Vienna lures visitors in, and stays with them long after they depart. |
| Day 10 |
This charming little capital town of Slovakia is the perfect destination for those who want a European experience with a quieter and less crowded feel. You could spend hours strolling the cobblestone streets of the Gothic old town, or the beautiful Bratislava Castle, a restored Baroque castle. |
| Day 11 |
The capital and largest city in Hungary, Budapest is a favorite European destination for millions of tourists each year. Once the center of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, this cosmopolitan city and UNESCO World Heritage site has plenty of historical and cultural landmarks to explore.
The prominent Chain Bridge, built in 1849, connected the former villages of Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, separated by the glistening Danube, and led to the establishment of today’s Budapest. Despite extensive destruction to the city during World War II, major efforts to restore historic castles and build new hotels led to an influx of tourists in the decades that followed. Visitors will marvel at the stunning architectural beauty of Budapest’s many cathedrals, basilicas, and synagogues. Climb to the top of famed St. Stephen’s Basilica in Pest to find a spectacular panoramic view of the city, or visit Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue on the continent and a paradigm of Moorish Revival architecture. A cruise down the mighty Danube will provide ample sightseeing opportunities for many of the city’s most famous attractions. Find the striking Buda Castle, crafted in a Baroque style and once home to Hungarian royalty, in the “Castle District” of Castle Hill and old-town Budapest, not to mention a host of galleries, museums, and the Hungarian National Library. The Hungarian Parliament building, resembling the Neo-Gothic architectural style of London’s Parliament building, lies across the Danube from Buda Castle. Here, guests can visit the crown jewels and regalia of Hungary’s royalty and take guided tours of the building’s many halls. Even the ruins of Budapest have become exciting tourist attractions, including one of many “ruin bars,” Szimpla Kert, which doubles as a flea market and nighttime music bar. Lovers of theater and the arts will appreciate tours of the opulent Hungarian Opera House or authentic folk dancing shows at Danube Palace Theater. |
| Day 12 |
The capital and largest city in Hungary, Budapest is a favorite European destination for millions of tourists each year. Once the center of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, this cosmopolitan city and UNESCO World Heritage site has plenty of historical and cultural landmarks to explore.
The prominent Chain Bridge, built in 1849, connected the former villages of Buda, Óbuda, and Pest, separated by the glistening Danube, and led to the establishment of today’s Budapest. Despite extensive destruction to the city during World War II, major efforts to restore historic castles and build new hotels led to an influx of tourists in the decades that followed. Visitors will marvel at the stunning architectural beauty of Budapest’s many cathedrals, basilicas, and synagogues. Climb to the top of famed St. Stephen’s Basilica in Pest to find a spectacular panoramic view of the city, or visit Dohány Street Synagogue, the largest synagogue on the continent and a paradigm of Moorish Revival architecture. A cruise down the mighty Danube will provide ample sightseeing opportunities for many of the city’s most famous attractions. Find the striking Buda Castle, crafted in a Baroque style and once home to Hungarian royalty, in the “Castle District” of Castle Hill and old-town Budapest, not to mention a host of galleries, museums, and the Hungarian National Library. The Hungarian Parliament building, resembling the Neo-Gothic architectural style of London’s Parliament building, lies across the Danube from Buda Castle. Here, guests can visit the crown jewels and regalia of Hungary’s royalty and take guided tours of the building’s many halls. Even the ruins of Budapest have become exciting tourist attractions, including one of many “ruin bars,” Szimpla Kert, which doubles as a flea market and nighttime music bar. Lovers of theater and the arts will appreciate tours of the opulent Hungarian Opera House or authentic folk dancing shows at Danube Palace Theater. |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
10/08/25 - 10/19/25 |
Starting At $7,990 |
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