River & Music
8 Days from CA$ 5,016.00
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River & Music


BudapestPassau

8 Days

A Musical Journey in the Footsteps of Great Composers along the Danube

From September 28 to October 5, 2025, embark on an unforgettable journey where the beauty of classical music merges with the cultural richness of Central Europe. On board the elegant AMADEUS Riva, you will be accompanied by the melodies of Mozart, Liszt, Strauss, and Bruckner through the heart of music history. During the day, you will discover magnificent cities and historic sites such as Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, and Salzburg – cities deeply connected to the lives and works of these musical legends. Walk in their footsteps and experience the inspiration behind their timeless masterpieces. In the evenings, enjoy exclusive concerts, atmospheric performances, and thoughtfully curated experiences that bring the music to life in unique settings.

Please note: Excursion rates are based on a minimum of 20 participants.

Itinerary

Step into your luxurious floating hotel for the next 7 days and enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner on board. As Budapest lights up at dusk, the Panorama Lounge hosts a vibrant Hungarian folklore show with traditional dancers in colorful costumes—a lively journey through Hungary’s rich cultural heritage.

Later, take in the magic of an atmospheric light tour through illuminated Budapest from the sun deck, set to the enchanting sounds of the waltz—an unforgettable start to your musical voyage.

Stay Budapest

Over Night

Excursions

In the morning, discover Budapest on the trail of Franz Liszt with fascinating excursions. In the evening, you have the option to visit Esztergom. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube Bend and explore highlights such as the impressive Esztergom Basilica—the largest church in Hungary and an architectural model for St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

Begin your day with a private cultural journey tracing the life of Franz Liszt, exploring the legacy of Hungary’s most celebrated composer through key historic sites, a guided stroll along the elegant Andrássy Avenue, and an exclusive mini-recital that brings 19th-century Budapest to life. Alternatively, shift from musical heritage to royal grandeur as you explore Budapest’s iconic landmarks. The excursion culminates in pure relaxation with skip-the-line VIP access to the historic Széchenyi Thermal Baths or an upscale rooftop spa suite. Your ship departs Budapest at lunchtime, gliding toward Esztergom as you take in the breathtaking scenery of the Danube Bend—one of the most picturesque stretches of the river.

After dinner, the first musical highlight awaits you on board: soprano Rebeca Olvera enchants the audience with an atmospheric recital, accompanied on the piano.

Stay Budapest

Departure at 1:30pm

Excursions

Stay Esztergom

6:30pm - 8:00pm

Excursions

Bratislava, a city where history and music intertwine in a truly unique way, has long been considered a hidden gem of the European classical tradition. As a cultural crossroads between Austria, Hungary, and the Bohemian lands, Bratislava played a key role in the careers of Joseph Haydn, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and Ludwig van Beethoven—all of whom performed here and left their mark on the city.

In the morning, take the opportunity to join guided excursions through Bratislava—a city where culture and everyday life blend in perfect harmony. Stroll through the winding lanes of the Old Town with its cobbled streets, charming squares, elegant palaces, and vibrant cafés. Discover the city’s rich history in its museums and galleries, or enjoy the breathtaking view from the castle hill, where majestic Bratislava Castle rises above the Danube.

Stay Bratislava

8:00am - 11:00pm

Excursions

Vienna, one of the world’s great cultural capitals, carries the legacy of legendary composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The Vienna State Opera and the Musikverein continue to set global standards in classical music, while elegant palaces and traditional coffeehouses keep the city’s musical spirit alive.

In the morning, you’ll discover Vienna’s majestic beauty, with the afternoon free for additional excursions or time at your leisure. The highlight of the day is an optional visit to the Vienna State Opera, where you can experience Rossini’s Il barbiere di Siviglia in a unique production—an unforgettable evening in the heart of the City of Music.

Stay Vienna

Arrival at 7:00am

Excursions

Arrive in the storybook town of Dürnstein this morning, where a private guide await to lead you through the heart of Austria’s UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley. Begin with a guided walking tour through Dürnstein’s cobbled streets, including a visit to the stunning baroque Abbey. Then, savor the region’s celebrated white wines—Grüner Veltliner and Riesling—at an exclusive tasting, perfectly paired with gourmet local specialties. As you return to your ship for a midday departure, enjoy a panoramic cruise through the valley’s terraced vineyards and charming hamlets.

In the afternoon, your journey continues with an arrival in Emmersdorf, gateway to the famed Melk Abbey. There, in the historic Koloman Hall, you will experience an exclusive concert performed by an ensemble of the Vienna Philharmonic, featuring masterworks by Mozart, Brahms, and other iconic Viennese composers. After the concert, enjoy a special Meet & Greet with the musicians—a rare opportunity to engage with world-class artists and gain personal insights into their craft.

Stay Vienna

Departure at 12:30am

Stay Duernstein

8:00am - 12:00pm

Excursions

Stay Emmersdorf

3:00pm - 7:00pm

Excursions

Linz masterfully weaves together Austria’s rich historical heritage with cutting-edge art and innovation—and once served as a tranquil retreat for composer Anton Bruckner. Today, you have the choice of two exceptional ways to immerse yourself in the cultural soul of Upper Austria. Follow in Bruckner’s footsteps on an inspiring journey through his life and legacy, with visits to his birthplace in Ansfelden and the magnificent St. Florian Abbey, where a stirring organ concert on the legendary Bruckner organ awaits. Alternatively, join a guided city tour of Linz, exploring the medieval alleys of the Old Town, elegant baroque townhouses, and striking contemporary landmarks such as the Brucknerhaus and the Ars Electronica Center.

After your chosen experience, enjoy a leisurely afternoon to discover Linz at your own pace.

Stay Linz

Arrival at 6:00am

Excursions

Today, journey from Linz to the timeless city of Salzburg, where the spirit of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart lives on in every square and sonata. The excursion “A Day with Mozart in Salzburg” offers a curated, full-day cultural experience including guided visits to Mozart’s Birthplace and Residence, a walk through Mirabell Gardens, and a gourmet lunch at Austria’s oldest restaurant—once frequented by Mozart himself. Alternatively, enjoy the freedom of discovering Salzburg at your own pace with our private transfer service, allowing you to explore the city’s cultural treasures on your own terms—including optional visits to renowned institutions such as the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the Museum der Moderne Mönchsberg. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy scenic views of Salzburg’s baroque Old Town and the surrounding Salzkammergut lakes, making this a memorable day steeped in music and history. Return to your ship in the evening and enjoy a festive farewell on board with a concert by German and Austrian brass musicians—a perfect musical finale to this exceptional journey.

Stay Linz

Departure at 11:00pm

Excursions

After breakfast, we bid you farewell. We hope to welcome you again soon!

Stay Passau

Arrival at 8:00am

We reserve the right to make amendments to the timetable and program.

Highlights

  • Enjoy two concerts on board and one in the outstanding Kolomani Hall right in the World Unesco Heritage sight Melk Abbey.
  • Travel with members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra.
  • Feel enchanted by local stars with folkloristic music – in Budapest and Linz.
  • Optional: Enjoy the amazing Vienna State Opera

Dates & Prices

The magnificent suites offer private walk-out balconies and lounge areas—perfect for enjoying your morning coffee or gazing at the starry sky at night. 

Each suite includes our AMADEUS Signature Bed (available as a double or twin), a luxurious bathroom with a shower and high-quality Rituals® bathing products, walk-in wardrobe, Espresso machine with complimentary selection of coffee, flat-screen TV, cabin safe, bathrobe and slippers, hair dryer, direct dial telephone, individual climate control, and a minibar for your convenience.

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and tranquility in your personal retreat.

These staterooms feature the AMADEUS Signature Bed (available as a double or twin), a drop-down panoramic window for uninterrupted river views, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower and premium Rituals® bathing products, walk-in wardrobe, flat-screen TV, individual climate control, well-stocked minibar, in-room safe, hair dryer, and direct dial telephone — ensuring a comfortable and refined travel experience.

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and tranquility in your personal retreat.

These staterooms feature the AMADEUS Signature Bed (available as a double or twin), a drop-down panoramic window for uninterrupted river views, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower and premium Rituals® bathing products, walk-in wardrobe, flat-screen TV, individual climate control, well-stocked minibar, in-room safe, hair dryer, and direct dial telephone — ensuring a comfortable and refined travel experience.

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and tranquility in your personal retreat.

These staterooms feature the AMADEUS Signature Bed (available as a double or twin), a drop-down panoramic window for uninterrupted river views, a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower and premium Rituals® bathing products, walk-in wardrobe, flat-screen TV, individual climate control, well-stocked minibar, in-room safe, hair dryer, and direct dial telephone — ensuring a comfortable and refined travel experience.

Designed with both style and practicality in mind, our Haydn Deck cabins offer a peaceful and well-equipped space for your journey.

Each cabin features a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, luxurious Rituals bath products, and a hair dryer, along with a fixed panoramic window that fills the space with natural light. Thoughtful touches like a comfortable double or twin bed, generously-sized wardrobe, secure in-room safe, flat-screen TV, individual climate control, well-stocked minibar and direct dial telephone ensure a restful and well-equipped stay.

Designed with both style and practicality in mind, our Haydn Deck cabins offer a peaceful and well-equipped space for your journey.

Each cabin features a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, luxurious Rituals bath products, and a hair dryer, along with a fixed panoramic window that fills the space with natural light. Thoughtful touches like a comfortable double or twin bed, generously-sized wardrobe, secure in-room safe, flat-screen TV, individual climate control, well-stocked minibar and direct dial telephone ensure a restful and well-equipped stay.

Inclusions

Musical Program Onboard & Ashore

  • Concert with members of the Vienna Philharmonic orchestra at Melk abbey’s Kolomani Hall
  • Recital by soprano Rebeca Olvera accompanied by pianist Anna Hauner
  • Exclusive concert of the Altenberg Trio on Board
  • Evening cruise with folklore performance in Budapest
  • Typical Brass band evening concert on board in Linz
  • Meet & Greets, autograph sessions with the artists

Suites & Staterooms

  • Luxury accommodation in an outside river-view stateroom of your choice: Spacious Mozart Suites with a walk-out balcony, stateroom cabins on Mozart and Strauss Decks with drop-down Panorama Retractable Windows offering a wide-open view
  • Individual climate control and in-room safe 
  • Choice of bed configuration in all categories (double or twin bedding)

Gourmet Dining

  • Gourmet dining featuring breakfast, multi-course lunches and dinners with menu choices (including vegetarian options), afternoon tea and late-night snack
  • Water, coffee, tea, and wine during lunch and dinner
  • An Array of Amenities 

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard

  • Onboard fitness center open 24 hours a day
  • All gratuities on board are included in your cruise fare

Voyage of Discovery

  • Personalized service of an experienced, multilingual AMADEUS Cruise Director 
  • AMADEUS digital audio system for all guided excursions 
  • Complimentary use of onboard bicycles for independent exploration 
  • Onboard fitness center open 24 hours a day
  • All port taxes, embarkation, disembarkation and lock fees included in your cruise fare 

Additional Services

Transfer

You're in good hands with us from the start: Let us book you a transfer from the airport or train station to the ship port and back. The following rates apply per transfer for 1-2 people:

Budapest (Hungary)

Train Station - Port CA$ 106

Airport - Port CA$ 182

Budapest City Centre - Port CA$ 99

Passau (Germany)

Port - Train Station CA$ 99

Port - Airport Munich CA$ 464

Drinks Package

Including all alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages (Champagne, Wine, Spirits, Cocktails, Water, Softrinks, Tea, Coee, etc.) from €400 per person

Vienna State Opera

Performance on Oct 1st 2025 “Il barbiere di Siviglia” including transfers, price depending on ticket category from 300€ per person
 

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