Wachau Valley to Vienna

After a short coach transfer you will reach the city centre of Krems, whose history spans over 1000 years. Explore the highlights of the old town on a guided walking tour. There are numerous churches, historic buildings, monuments and statues to be discovered.

Enjoy some free time before continuing by coach to Göttweig Abbey situated in a scenic location overlooking the southern entrance to the Wachau Valley. Göttweig Abbey was founded in 1083 by the Bishop of Passau as a double monastery, and it became a Benedictine 1094. It was newly built in its current baroque form in the early 18th century and today is home to around 40 monks, who live and work there.

Inside, you can climb the monumental imperial staircase, one of the largest and most beautiful baroque staircases in Europe. The ceiling fresco was painted in 1739 by Paul Troger. See the monastery´s art collection, which is exhibited in the adjoining former imperial apartments, and enjoy the views of the Wachau Valley from high above before taking rejoining your coach for the transfer back to the ship

Walking Grade 4

Please note: You should expect to walk approximately one-and-a-half miles over flat terrain which will include some gentle inclines. Inside the Abbey there are a significant number of steps and uneven flooring and as a result this tour is not suitable for those with limited mobility. There is a total walking and/or standing time of approximately two-and-a-half hours.

4 hours

After a short coach ride you will arrive at the city centre of Krems, whose history spans over 1000 years. Your walking tour begins here, in the historic Main Square, surrounded by historic buildings and a lively atmosphere. As you stroll, your guide will give an introduction to the town’s varied history, including its significance as an important medieval trading hub and its current role in Austria’s wine-producing region.

Other highlights you can discover include St Michael’s Church, an impressive Gothic structure dating back to the 15th century. As you stroll through the medieval streets, you will pass the remnants of the town’s city wall that once fortified the town against invaders and visit the Steiner Tor, one of the most iconic gateways into Krems, and hear about its strategic importance in Krems' medieval defense system.

At the end of your guided walk you will have approximately one hour of free time to explore further at your own pace. Perhaps find a cafe to sample the local food and wine, shop for souvenirs, or just wander by the Danube River. After your free time, you will return to the ship by coach.

Walking Grade 3

Please note: Expect to walk approximately one mile in total over flat ground which will be cobbled in places with the possibility of some steps. There will be total compulsory standing and/or walking time of approximately 60 minutes. Walking and/or standing during your free time is at your discretion.

2½ hours

This excursion begins with a panoramic coach tour past some of Vienna’s most famous sights, such as the 212-feet tall Riesenrad Ferris wheel and the Ringstrasse where you can see the State Opera House and Parliament building.

You will then travel into the oldest part of Vienna, where you will have the opportunity to join a short, guided walk to the St Stephen's Cathedral, one of Vienna's most renowned landmarks.

After, enjoy approximately 30 minutes of free time to relax with a Viennese coffee, indulge in a local treat, or browse the nearby shops before returning to the coach for your drive back to the ship.

Walking Grade 3

Please note: Expect to walk approximately one mile over terrain which will be cobbled and include a gentle incline. There is a total compulsory walking/standing time of approximately one hour. Walking and/or standing during free time is at your discretion.

3½ hours

On this leisurely tour you will be able to explore the highlights of Vienna from the comfort of your coach, in the company of an expert local guide who will provide commentary on the history, culture, and landmarks. Shortly after the departure from your ship you will pass by the famous Reisenrad Ferris Wheel located in the Prater Park. Learn the history of this iconic landmark, which was built in 1897 and remains a symbol of Vienna.

Your coach will then continue along the grand Ringstrasse, a beautiful boulevard that encircles the city centre. You will see historic buildings such as the Vienna State Opera, one of the most prestigious opera houses in the world, and the Parliament building.

The tour also includes a pass by Maria-Theresien-Platz, a grand square with statues of Empress Maria Theresa, and other landmarks such as the Natural History Museum and Art History Museum. At the end of your tour the coach will return you to your waiting ship.

Walking Grade 1

Please note: The only walking on this tour is between the ship and coach. There are no opportunities to leave the coach during the tour.

2 hours

Once an ancient Roman colony, Passau is one of the oldest cities in Germany, sitting at the confluence of the Inn and Ilz rivers. In 739AC, Passau became governed by bishops and priests which brought fame and prosperity to the city and surrounding region. 

On your walking tour through this city, you will be able to explore some key highlights such as the late Gothic town hall and the city’s landmark, St Stephen’s Cathedral. Local church services permitting you can head inside for a short tour and hear about its importance to the residents of Passau and how it was built on the ruins of two earlier churches. With 17,974 pipes and 208 registers, this holy monument also houses the largest church organ in the world which you’ll be able to see for yourself. 

Afterwards, a stroll through the narrow alleys and cobbled streets of the Old Town will lead you back to the ship.

Walking Grade 4

Please note:You should expect to walk approximately one-and-a-quarter miles terrain which will often be cobbled and include some gentle slopes. Approximately 50 steps are required. There is a total walking/standing time of approximately one-and-a-half hours.

2 hours

After a short leisurely walk from your ship, you will arrive at the cosy riverside tavern, which plays host to your Bavarian-style celebration! Sit back and relax as you soak up the warm atmosphere and enjoy a taste of the local cuisine with pretzels and wheat beer. To accompany your refreshments, local performers will also treat you to a lively and entertaining soundtrack of traditional Bavarian music.

After the performance your on-board team will accompany you on a gentle stroll back to the ship or, depending on your cruise itinerary, you may choose to stay a little longer in the town and walk back independently.

Walking Grade 3

Please note: Expect to walk approximately half-a-mile in total over terrain which will be cobbled in places. There is also the possibility of some steps. There will be a total standing and/or walking time of approximately 40 minutes.

2 hours

Travel from your ship by coach for the journey of approximately 45 minutes to the Mauthausen Concentration Camp Memorial Site. From 1938 to 1945, the Mauthausen Concentration Camp was centre of a system of over 40 subcamps and the first site for the forced labour of political, social and racially persecuted prisoners set up by the National Socialist regime on Austrian territory. Of a total of around 190,000 people imprisoned there, at least 90,000 perished.

Your tour will begin with an overview of the outdoor areas of the camp with a local expert guide before viewing the exhibitions inside, including ‘The Mauthausen Concentration Camp 1938–1945’ which offers an overview of the history of Mauthausen and its subcamps. It is located in a historic camp building, the former ‘Krankenrevier’ or ‘infirmary’, where sick functionaries were treated from summer 1944 onwards.

You will also visit sites such as a former barracks that housed prisoners and the Quarantine Yard, which today is a cemetery, where new arrivals to the camp were indoctrinated as well as view the infamous “Stairs of Death,” where prisoners were forced to carry heavy granite blocks up 186 steps to the top of the quarry.

You will also have the opportunity to visit the 'Room of Names'. This permanent exhibition displays the names of all those known by name who died in the Mauthausen and Gusen concentration camp complex and in the subcamps. The names of over 84,000 people who died between 1938 and 1945 can be seen there. The Mauthausen Memorial Camp Site is a former crime scene, a place of memory, a cemetery and increasingly, a site of political and historical education. This is a tour which is sure to be both poignant and thought provoking.

Walking Grade 4

Please note: Expect to walk approximately one-and-a-half miles in total over paved terrain with the possibility of steps. There is standing and/or walking time of approximately two hours. The Memorial Site is considered a historic monument and therefore not all pathways are level and not all buildings are accessible for people with mobility limitations. A large portion of this tour takes place outside so please dress appropriately for the expected weather conditions.

3½ hours

During this tour, you will firstly head into Salzburg’s conserved historic centre for a guided walk where you can see the fortification of Hohensalzburg, one of the largest medieval fortresses in Europe and dating back to the 11th century as the seat of the Archbishopric of Salzburg. With the surrounding Alpine scenery in the distance you will also pass by Mozart’s birthplace on Getreidegasse and his residence, baroque towers and churches, the grounds of Mirabell Palace and Gardens, and many other sights in this well-preserved city. As the Trapp Family lived in Salzburg, the city also became famous for the filming of ‘The Sound of Music’ during the 1960s, which you will hear more about from your expert local guide.

At the end of your guided walk you will have the opportunity for some free time, during which you can explore further independently. Perhaps find a cafe to enjoy a traditional Austrian lunch or seek out the famous “Mozart balls” – made of pistachio, marzipan and nougat covered in chocolate as a treat. At the end of your tour, board the coach for your journey back to your ship.

Walking Grade 5

Please note: You should expect to walk approximately three miles over mostly level terrain with some cobbles and steps. There is a total walking/standing time of approximately two hours and 15 minutes. Lunch is not included. Walking is at your discretion during your free time. The journey to/from your ship to Salzburg is approximately 90 minutes to two hours depending on traffic. There will be comfort stops on arrival and before you depart Salzburg, there is no stop during the journey. Due to the significant walking distance this tour is not suitable for those with mobility limitations.

8 hours

Known as the Culture and Art Capital of Upper Austria, Linz is a diverse city where the modern architecture and vibrant creative arts scene blend seamlessly with the quaint and historic architecture. This tour begins with a short walk from your ship towards the city centre. With your expert local guide you will firstly visit the Old Town Hall, which features an enormous aerial floor map of the city helping you to orientate yourself and follow the winding path of the Danube.

Next, head back outside and join your yellow land train for a trip through the pretty streets of Linz with commentary en route. After a short pause in your journey to visit the striking Linz Cathedral, you will continue to the central plaza where you will disembark. Your guide will then accompany you on the short stroll back to your ship or alternatively, depending on your cruise itinerary, you may choose to stay longer in the centre to explore further independently and make your own way back to the ship.

Walking Grade 3

Please note: You should expect to walk approximately one mile in total over level terrain with the possibility of cobblestones and a number of steps. There is a total compulsory walking and/or standing time of approximately 60 minutes. This tour includes travel by land train which can occasionally be bumpy and therefore may be unsuitable for those with back and/or neck problems.

2½ hours

This guided tour takes you to Melk Abbey, a famous Baroque building set on a rocky outcrop near the Danube. The abbey was founded in 1089 when Leopold II, Margrave of Austria, gave one of his castles to Benedictine monks. Following this, a monastic school, the Stiftsgymnasium Melk, was founded in the 12th century – boasting the monastic library which soon became known for its extensive manuscript collection.

After a short bus journey from your ship, you will reach the Benedictine monastery. Accompanied by your guide, learn more about why this site was rebuilt in the 18th century and what remains in the tombs of the abbey below. See the church frescoes by Johann Michael Rottmayr, the marble hall and of course, the world-famous library. Housing more than 80,000 books and adorned with a detailed ceiling mural by Paul Troger, you will find out more about the members of the House of Babenberg and their tribute to this library. After your tour, enjoy some free time to explore independently. Perhaps walk through the abbey gardens or enjoy a refreshment in the restaurant nearby before re-joining your coach back to the ship.

Walking Grade 4

Please note: Expect to walk approximately one-and-a-half miles over flat terrain inside the abbey with some uneven terrain in the gardens, should you choose to explore them during your free time. Walking is at your discretion during free time, although we suggest you should expect to walk an additional half a mile. There are steps inside the abbey for the Imperial Staircase but a lift is also available if required. There is a total walking/standing time of approximately one-and-a-half to two hours.

3 hours

Begin your tour with a short transfer from the ship to a cosy bistro located in the heart of Melk. Enjoy a warm and welcoming atmosphere for your private guided tasting experience of five local wines. These represent the best of the Wachau Valley and vary by season, ensuring you always experience something fresh.

Some wines you might sample include Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Chardonnay, typical varietals from the region known for their crisp, fresh profiles. Alongside the wines, enjoy local snacks to complement the flavours. This is a small-group experience, ensuring that you get a chance to learn about the wines and the history of wine-growing in the Wachau Valley directly from the knowledgeable guide in an intimate environment.

Gain an insight into the long history of wine-growing in the area, which dates back to Roman times and why the Wachau Valley’s unique terroir plays a significant role in creating wines with distinct flavours. After your tasting, a return transfer will take you back to your ship.

Walking Grade 2

Please note: On this tour you should expect to walk approximately 550 yards over cobbled terrain with the possibility of some steps. There is a total standing and/or walking time of approximately thirty minutes.

2 hours

Embark on a delightful culinary adventure through Vienna, starting with a short coach transfer from your ship into the historic city centre. On arrival you will be accompanied by your knowledgeable local guide to take a brief stroll to your first stop, Leberkas-Pepi. Here, you can savour the classic Austrian specialty, Leberkäse—a savoury meat loaf typically made from finely ground pork, beef and seasonings, baked until golden and served warm. A vegetarian alternative is also available on request. Accompanying this treat is a traditional Pfiff, a small draft beer, perfect for a quick refreshment and a nod to local customs, usually drunk in one gulp!

Next, enjoy a scenic 15-minute walk past historic sites, such as the Vienna State Opera House and the Albertina Museum, as you head to Conditorei Sluka, a pastry shop dating back to 1891, renowned for its elegant interior and mastery of traditional Viennese confectionery. Here you will indulge in a slice of the legendary Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and topped with a smooth chocolate glaze, paired with a cup of Viennese coffee.

After a short transfer out of the city your tour concludes with a visit to Schlumberger Kellerwelten. This historic wine cellar offers a tour through its vaulted chambers, revealing the artistry behind Schlumberger's sparkling wines. Toast your journey with a glass of their exquisite Brut before rejoining your coach for the return journey to your ship, filled with the flavours and stories of Vienna.

Walking Grade 3

Please note: You should expect to walk approximately one-and-a-quarter miles over paved terrain. There is a total walking and/or standing time of approximately one-and-a-half to two hours, split into smaller segments with stops at your tasting venues. There are a number of stairs to climb during your wine cellar tour.

3½ hours

Depart your ship by coach for the short transfer to Schönbrunn, the sumptuous Imperial Summer palace of the Hapsburgs and the centre of Austrian royal life in the 18th century. It was commissioned in 1695 by Leopold I after being inspired by the glories of Versailles. It sits within beautiful formal gardens and parkland; the lavish interiors are adorned with priceless treasures.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with fine examples of the decorative arts. With an expert local guide you will start by touring the opulent interior of the palace uncovering riches such as the Millions Room – panelled in rosewood with Persian miniature watercolours – and the Hall of Mirrors where Mozart played a recital for Maria Theresa. After your tour inside you will have free time to explore further independently. Perhaps take the opportunity to stroll through the grounds with their vast flowerbeds or visit the Coach and Carriage Museum, where you can see a beautiful collection of both replica and restored horse-drawn vehicles spanning several centuries as well as an exhibition showcasing the elaborate dresses of the empresses. At the end of the visit you will return to your ship by coach.

Walking Grade 4

Please Note: Whilst exploring inside the palace and grounds is at your own pace, you should expect standing time of two hours and to walk approximately one-and-a-half miles over level terrain, which will include gravel paths. Inside the palace entrance there is a significant number of steps to access the tour route. If you wish to visit the Gloriette building during your visit, please be aware that it is located at the top of the hill overlooking the main palace building and is a steep and strenuous walk. This tour may operate in reverse with free time before the internal palace visit.

3½ hours

Vienna is renowned for its concert halls where regular musical performances take place. Therefore, a trip to Vienna would not be complete without a concert of Viennese music.

After an early dinner on board you will travel by coach to Börse Palace, or one of Vienna’s other impressive palaces near the famous Ringstrasse and parliament where you can relax and enjoy the music of the Strauss family. Together, the composers in the family were largely responsible for the popularisation of the waltz, so you will be transported back through music to 18th-century Vienna. The Chamber Orchestra are also accompanied in parts by dancers in traditional costumes and opera singers performing pieces such as “A Little Night Music”, “Papageno – Papagena” from “The Magic Flute” or “Ball Sirens” from “The Merry Widow”.

At the end of the performance you will rejoin your coach for the return transfer to the ship, where a light supper such as 'goulash' will be available for you in the lounge.

Walking Grade 2

Please note: Dependent on the concert venue, there may be a walk of up to approximately 500 yards from the coach drop-off point. There are some steps inside most venues but lifts are available if required. There is a total walking/standing time of approximately 25 minutes. In many venues the seating is on one level rather than tiered. Many guests do take the opportunity to dress more formally for this experience, however this is not compulsory. Unfortunately, ticket upgrades are not possible.

3 hours