Enrich your Danube Cruise Experience with Pre- Post-Cruise Extension.
If you want to make the most of a Danube cruise, you don’t want to miss one of Europe’s most beautiful and intact medieval cities – Prague. Adding Prague as a pre-cruise option means you’ll be immersed in Czech history and culture, visiting iconic sites like Prague Castle, the Charles Bridge, the Old Town Square and the centuries old astronomical clock with its fantastical animated figures. Prague’s lively cafe culture, bustling markets and hearty comfort food like chimney cake, goulash, and dumplings, (washed down with strong beer) make it a favorite with European travelers.
Another popular city that demands some extra time is Budapest. The imposing neo-Gothic Parliament building, Buda Castle, and the Fisherman’s Bastion are all worthy of a visit, and you don’t want to miss an evening stroll along the river’s banks to come across its hidden “mini statues” and appreciate its dramatic nighttime scenery. Enjoy nightlife at the “ruin bars” in the Jewish Quarter, featuring chaotic, artistic decor, or relax in the Széchenyi or Gellért thermal baths. Try the local chicken paprikash and the tasty street food langos – a pizza of sorts, made with sourdough crust and every topping imaginable!
Vienna is a world-class center of culture and imperial elegance – a true gem, especially for art and music lovers. As it’s included in most Danube itineraries, it’s a natural choice for a cruise extension. Visit the Hofburg Palace where the Hapsburg dynasty resided and ruled for 600 years, cementing Vienna’s reputation as a cultural mecca. Schonbrunn Palace’s grand halls and stunning gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Treat yourself to superb pastries and coffee at a Viennese coffee house and enjoy traditional apple strudel, sacher torte, or rich marble cake. Attending a classical concert of Mozart, Strauss or the Vienna Boys’ Choir is an unforgettable experience not to be missed.
A gateway city for cruises beginning or ending in Passau is Munich. This fun-loving Bavarian city is home to the Glockenspiel mechanical clock located in the town center, Marienplatz. Enjoy city views from the top of St. Peter’s Church and stroll through one of the world’s largest urban parks, the Englischer Garten. Take in the beauty of the stunning stained glass windows in the 15th century Frauenkirche Cathedral, but steer clear of the “Devil’s Footprint!” And for fun, don’t miss the beer, bratwurst and Bavarian music scene at the original Hofbrauhaus.
Give yourself a chance to explore some of the beautiful cities along the Danube in greater depth by adding a cruise extension, allowing more time to really explore and appreciate each culture in a way not possible during short port visits. The beauty of these extensions is that they can be arranged through the cruise line itself, creating itineraries that include transfers, hotels and tours all in one cruise add-on package. Easy! Contact your Travel Leaders advisor for more information on making your Danube cruise truly special.
