Follow Us:
The Danube River featuring Vienna & Budapest
October 19 - 28, 2026
Prague Pre Tour Package leaves on Oct. 16
Set sail along the legendary Danube—where music, history, and riverlight weave through Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. Wander the storybook lanes of Bratislava, feel the timeless heartbeat of Hungary’s Puszta (horseriders), and discover the Old World elegance of Vienna and the vibrant charm of Budapest. Step inside the Sisi Museum, linger in grand cafés, and savor river views that feel lifted from a painting.
Best of all, we’ve made it effortless: every shore excursion is already included, with guided experiences that bring each destination to life. And on board, all meals and drinks are included, so you can simply relax and enjoy—from breakfast as the river wakes to evening toasts beneath illuminated skylines. This isn’t just a cruise; it’s Europe at its most intimate and unforgettable—the kind of journey Defined Destinations designs for travelers who want romance, depth, and ease in every moment.
We also have an optional three night pre-tour package to Prague, departing MSP on October 16 and arriving in Prague on October 17, then meeting the group in Vienna on the 20th.
YOUR CRUISE EXPERIENCE: Indulge in an extraordinary journey where all your MEALS, DRINKS & SHORE EXCURSIONS ARE INCLUDED, from delightful beverages at the bar to exquisite drinks paired with refined French cuisine. Upon arrival, experience a welcome cocktail that awaits you, as well as a personal greeting from our captain and crew, ensuring you feel right at home. Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi onboard, and enjoy the convenience of headsets provided for all included excursions. Our itinerary includes a range of onboard activities designed to entertain and delight. This exclusive offer is crafted to provide you with an exceptional and seamless journey, ensuring every moment is as spectacular as the destinations we visit.
.jpg)
Highlights & Inclusions:
-
All meals and drinks are included on the ship
-
Welcome & Farewell Dinners
-
7 Nights on board the MS Vivaldi (Croisi Europe)
-
1 Night Pre cruise Hotel in Vienna
-
Professional Tour Director
-
All Tour Excursions on ship included
-
22 Meals Included
-
Unlimited Alcoholic and Non Alcoholic drinks on the ship are included in the trip price (except for the special list)
-
Scenic Cruise along the celebrated Danube River
-
All excursions included
-
Vienna – Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg, evening concert
-
Bratislava – guided city tour, Little Carpathians
-
Hungarian Puszta – traditional horse show
-
Budapest – guided city tour of Buda & Pest
-
Gellért Baths or Budapest Market Halls
-
Melk Abbey
-
Wachau Valley cruise
-
Dürnstein – guided walking tour
-
Esztergom – historic city and basilica
-
Gala Dinner on board
-
Free Wifi on the ship
-
Onboard entertainment
-
Leisure time throughout the trip
-
And so much more!
Option Pre Tour Package in Prague:
-
Welcome Dinner in Prague
-
Old Town Tour
-
Prague Castle Tour
-
Cesky Krumlov Village
-
Daily Breakfast in Prague
-
Transfer from Prague to Vienna
-
And so much more!
Day 1: October 19
Fly To Vienna, Austria
Pre tour package starts on October 16 and arrives in Prague on October 17
Depart the USA for an overnight flight to Vienna, Austria. All flights from the USA are overnight flights to Europe (arriving on the 20th October). For guests booking our optional Prague Package (details to come) - you will be leaving the USA on October 16 (3 nights in Prague before arriving in Vienna via private motorcoach).
Day 2: October 20
Arrive In Vienna, Austria
Upon arrival in Vienna, we will be welcomed by a local guide who will lead us on an orientation tour of this enchanting city. Wander along elegant boulevards and take in Vienna’s timeless beauty—its grand palaces, graceful architecture, and the spires of St. Stephen’s Cathedral rising above the old town. Feel the romance of a city once home to Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss, where music and history still echo through the streets. After the tour, enjoy some free time to stroll, sip coffee in a traditional café, or simply soak up the Viennese atmosphere before checking into our centrally located hotel. Tonight, join your Tour Director and fellow travelers for an included Welcome Dinner in the heart of the city. Guests on the pre tour to Prague will be joining the group arriving in Vienna today (Prague Pre-tour group will arrive before the Welcome Dinner).
Included Meals: Welcome Dinner
Day 3: October 21
Vienna & Cruise to Melk
After checking out of our hotel, we will enjoy free time in Vienna with our local guide. This is a great opportunity to explore some of the city’s highlights, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the elegant pedestrian streets around the Graben, the Hofburg Palace area, or even one of Vienna’s classic coffeehouses.
We will board the ship at 6:00 in the evening. Once everyone is settled into their cabins, we will gather for a welcome cocktail and meet the crew. The ship will depart at 8:00 in the evening for Melk and sail overnight.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: October 22
Melk & Durnstein
This morning we visit the magnificent Melk Abbey, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture perched high above the Danube. From there, relax on deck as our ship glides through the breathtaking Wachau Valley—an enchanting stretch of the river lined with vineyards, castle ruins, and storybook villages. As we approach Dürnstein, standing on the ship’s deck offers unforgettable views of this medieval jewel and the shimmering Danube. Once ashore, we’ll explore the town’s cobblestone streets, charming squares, and its famous blue-towered abbey before returning on board to continue our voyage toward Bratislava.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: October 23
Slovakia & Bratislava
This morning we arrive in Bratislava, the fairytale capital of Slovakia. Nestled along the Danube and framed by the Little Carpathian hills, the city blends Old World charm with vibrant café culture. On our guided tour, discover the cobblestone streets of the historic old town, the Gothic spires of St. Martin’s Cathedral, and elegant squares lined with pastel façades. In the afternoon, return to the ship and enjoy a leisurely cruise as the landscapes of Slovakia drift by on our way to Kalocsa.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: October 24
Hungarian Horsemen
Today we journey into the heart of Hungary’s legendary Puszta, a vast plain where wide-open skies stretch endlessly and time seems to slow. Experience the beauty of this unique landscape and its remarkable wildlife, brought to life with a dazzling traditional horse show performed by skilled Hungarian horsemen—a tradition passed down through generations. After this unforgettable morning, return to the comfort of our ship and enjoy a relaxing afternoon of cruising. As evening falls, the Danube carries us gracefully toward Budapest, where the glittering lights of Hungary’s capital will welcome us by night. An arrival in Budapest is nothing short of magical—setting the stage for one of Europe’s most breathtaking cities.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: October 25
Budapest
Few cities in Europe are as enchanting as Budapest, where the Danube divides the rolling hills of Buda from the grand boulevards of Pest. Once separate towns, united in 1873, the city today is a dazzling blend of Gothic spires, baroque palaces, and sweeping river views. This morning, enjoy an included guided tour of Budapest, from the storybook streets of Buda Castle Hill to the stately Parliament and vibrant squares of Pest. In the afternoon, you may choose to explore further with optional experiences, such as relaxing in the world-famous Gellért Baths and Spa or browsing the colorful Budapest Market Halls, where stalls overflow with paprika, Tokaji wines, hand-embroidered linens, and Hungarian specialties like lángos. Tonight, we’ll come together for an included evening of traditional Hungarian entertainment, a festive celebration of music, dance, and culture in this most romantic of cities.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: October 26
Esztergom & Danube
Upon arrival, enjoy time at leisure in Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest and most historic cities. Often called the “Gateway to the Danube Bend,” Esztergom was once the nation’s capital and remains the spiritual heart of Hungary. Stroll its charming streets or marvel at the city’s crown jewel—the majestic Esztergom Basilica, the largest church in Hungary, perched high above the river with breathtaking views. In the afternoon, relax as we continue our journey, cruising along the Danube toward Vienna. This evening, join your fellow travelers for a festive Gala Dinner on board, a night of fine dining and celebration as our ship sails onward under the stars.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: October 27
Schonbrunn Castle & Concert!
Few cities capture the romance of Old Europe like Vienna, a place where imperial grandeur meets the soul of music and café culture. This morning, step into the city’s golden past with an included guided visit to Vienna’s most treasured sights, a tour of Schönbrunn Palace, the opulent summer residence of the Habsburgs.
In the afternoon, you may join an excursion to the Hofburg Palace, the seat of emperors for over six centuries and home to treasures of the Habsburg dynasty. As night falls, immerse yourself in the city’s musical spirit with an evening concert of Viennese classics (subject to availability)—a perfect finale in the very city where Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss once performed.
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner
Day 10: October 28
Fly Home from Vienna
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the enchanting Danube, carrying with us the memories of fairytale villages, grand cities, and the ever-changing beauty of the river’s landscapes. Our journey has been filled with history, music, and unforgettable moments that will linger long after we return home. Today, depart for your flight back, or choose to extend your European adventure. Group flight details will be available in late November.
Included Meals: Breakfast
Pre Tour Prague Package:
October 16 - 20th
Interested in seeing one of Europe’s most beautiful cities? Join our pre-tour package to Prague. Depart from MSP or the airport of your choice and arrive in Prague on October 17. Enjoy three nights in central Prague with daily breakfast and a welcome dinner cruise on the Vltava River.
Experience a guided walking tour of Prague’s Old Town and the historic Jewish Quarter. Visit Prague Castle, which offers some of the most impressive views of the city. As we travel to Vienna to meet the main group, we will stop for lunch in the charming Czech village of Český Krumlov, often considered one of Europe’s most picturesque towns.
The pre-tour concludes at our hotel in Vienna on October 20, where you will join the full group. This optional Prague experience will be a true highlight.
Add the Pre Tour Package to Prague for $1199 additional per person
MSP TO VIENNA ROUND TRIP (ON DELTA/KLM)
Travel dates: October 19–28, 2026
OUTBOUND – Monday, October 19, 2026
KLM Flight 656
-
Depart: Minneapolis (MSP) – 3:05 PM on Mon, Oct 19
-
Arrive: Amsterdam (AMS) – 6:00 AM on Tue, Oct 20
KLM Flight 1901
-
Depart: Amsterdam (AMS) – 6:55 AM on Tue, Oct 20
-
Arrive: Vienna (VIE) – 8:40 AM on Tue, Oct 20
RETURN – Wednesday, October 28, 2026
KLM Flight 1900
-
Depart: Vienna (VIE) – 6:50 AM on Wed, Oct 28
-
Arrive: Amsterdam (AMS) – 8:50 AM on Wed, Oct 28
Delta Flight 163
-
Depart: Amsterdam (AMS) – 12:10 PM on Wed, Oct 28
-
Arrive: Minneapolis (MSP) – 3:25 PM on Wed, Oct 28
PRAGUE PRE TOUR PACKAGE - (MSP to Prague and return from Vienna)
Travel dates: October 16–28, 2026) -
OUTBOUND – Friday, October 16, 2026
-
Delta Flight 2661
-
Depart: Minneapolis (MSP) – 1:00 PM on Fri, Oct 16
-
Arrive: New York (JFK) – 4:56 PM on Fri, Oct 16
-
Delta Flight 78
-
Depart: New York (JFK) – 6:40 PM on Fri, Oct 16
-
Arrive: Prague (PRG) – 9:00 AM on Sat, Oct 17
-
RETURN – Wednesday, October 28, 2026
-
(Return flights are the same AS cruise only guests
-
KLM Flight 1900
-
Depart: Vienna (VIE) – 6:50 AM on Wed, Oct 28
-
Arrive: Amsterdam (AMS) – 8:50 AM on Wed, Oct 28
-
Delta Flight 163
-
Depart: Amsterdam (AMS) – 12:10 PM on Wed, Oct 28
-
Arrive: Minneapolis (MSP) – 3:25 PM on Wed, Oct 28
Choosing Your Package Made Easy
We know there are a few options listed, so here’s the simplest way to decide which package is right for you.
Step 1: Would you like to join our 3-night Pre-Tour to Prague?
If yes: Select one of the Prague Pre-Tour packages — either Land Only or Airfare Included.
If no: Skip Prague and choose the Main Danube River Cruise package — again, either Land Only or Airfare Included.
Step 2: Do you want your airfare included?
For both the Prague Pre-Tour and the Danube Cruise, you’ll see two choices:
-
Land Only – You book your own flights.
-
Airfare Included – We bundle your round-trip airfare into your package.
Step 3: Are you booking as a Single or a Double?
Select whichever applies to your room or cabin.
Quick Breakdown
-
Danube Cruise Only (no Prague):
Choose Land Only or Airfare Included, then select Single or Double. -
Prague Pre-Tour + Danube Cruise:
Choose Land Only or Airfare Included, then select Single or Double.
Cruise Package Tour Price:
UPPER DECK CABIN
Double Rate
$4999 per person
(Based on 2 people in a Cabin
LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED
AIRFARE PACKAGE - UPPER DECK WITH COACH AIRFARE
$6248 per person
INCLUDES AIRFARE AND CRUISE PACKAGE - BASED ON 2 PEOPLE IN A ROOM
UPPER DECK CABIN
Single Rate
$6199 per person
(Based on 1 person in a room)
LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED
AIRFARE INCLUDED - SINGLE RATE WITH UPPER DECK
$7448 per person
SINGLE RATE INCLUDES COACH AIRFARE AND UPPER DECK CABIN
Trip Deposit
A $500 non-refundable per person deposit is due at the time of registration. After final payment all monies are non-refundable. Travel Insurance is available and HIGHLY ENCOURAGED
Final Payment
June 19, 2026
PRAGUE - PRE TOUR PACKAGE (ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE THE DANUBE CRUISE)
OCTOBER 16 - 28TH
DOUBLE RATE - LAND ONLY - UPPER DECK CABIN
& PRAGUE PRE TOUR PACKAGE
$6198 PER PERSON
(Based on 2 people in a Cabin WITH Prague Package
LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED
DOUBLE RATE - AIRFARE PACKAGE - UPPER DECK CABIN & PRAGUE PRE TOUR PACKAGE
$7447 PER PERSON
(Based on 2 People in a room)
Coach Airfare included, Upper Deck Cabin and Prague Pre Tour Package
SINGLE RATE - LAND ONLY - UPPER DECK CABIN
WITH PRAGUE PRE TOUR PACKAGE
$7798 PER PERSON
(Based on 1 person in a room)
LAND ONLY - AIRFARE IS NOT INCLUDED. Includes the Prague Pre Tour Package
SINGLE RATE - AIRFARE PACKAGE - UPPER DECK CABIN & PRAGUE PRE TOUR PACKAGE
$9047 PER PERSON
(Based on 1 person in a room)
Coach Airfare included, Upper Deck Cabin and Prague Pre tour
Trip Photos
