Gastronomy of the Danube - MS Geoffrey Chaucer

Arrival in Budapest - On arrival, a coach will take you to your cruise ship. Our dedicated crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with this first-class floating hotel.There’s always a sense of expectancy and excitement on the eve of a cruise and, after an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation is sure to revolve around the delights ahead.

Esztergom - Overnight, we'll have cruised upstream to Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest towns, a royal capital during medieval times and today the seat of the country’s archbishop. The castle was the seat of government until the Ottomans invaded in the 16th century. Nestling below are myriad atmospheric churches resonating with the enchanting sounds of choirs; this is the best of provincial Hungary and is little changed since Habsburg times.In Esztergom, we'll enjoy a guided tour of the famous neoclassical basilica, standing sentinel over the Danube on the border with Slovakia, and boasting one of the world’s largest altarpieces and a wealth of priceless religious artefacts.Beneath the beautiful building is a 3,000 square meters large cellar system, as old as the basilica itself. It's here we end our guided tour, with a tasting of Hungarian wines which will introduce you to an array of rustic, fuller-bodied wines from the Carpathian basin. As you enjoy your first lunch on board, we'll gently leave Esztergom in our wake, affording a fascinating opportunity to compare the different landscapes, towns and villages of Hungary on one riverbank and of Slovakia on the other.

Bratislava - This morning we'll explore Slovakia's fast-emerging capital city, Bratislava, on a sightseeing guided tour aboard a land train.  We’ll see the imposing 17th-century castle commanding expansive views across the Danube, along with the Presidential Palace. Then, we'll take a walking tour through the old town. Until recently swathed in the drab uniformity of Communism, the city has rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its beautifully restored old town. We'll see Messerschmidt Café, named after the famous baroque sculptor Franz Xaver Messerschmidt. Part cafe, part museum, guests can enjoy the works of F.X. Messerschmidt, along with a great cup of coffee and a delicious bratislavské rožky (a traditional sweet pastry).When talking about the gastronomic scene in Bratislava, it is impossible not to mention the Flagship Restaurant. So, to end our tour, we'll visit Europe's largest restaurant, nestled in the Monastery of the Brothers of Mercy on SNP Square - the square where the Gentle Revolution took place in 1989. The restaurant has a capacity of 450 seats on three floors in what was once the cinema. If you're seeking authentic Slovakian cuisine, this is a great place to start with a menu that celebrates these traditional dishes. In the baroque cellars below is Kláštorný Pivovar, the restaurant's very own brewery, and we'll taste two of their most popular brews alongside local specialities like pirohy (potato dumplings) and bryndzové halušky (Slovakia's national dish).  Returning to our ship, we'll spend the afternoon cruising into Lower Austria - a peaceful region and home to some of the country's best wines. By now, the stresses of everyday life seem distant as you absorb the ever-changing scenes: you might spot children playing on the riverbanks, young couples strolling arm in arm like generations before them, vignerons carefully pruning their vines, and cobbled quaysides lined by half-timbered buildings.You'll marvel as the captain skilfully navigates the ship along the serene river and through locks whose mechanisms never cease to fascinate as we cruise towards Dürnstein.

Dürnstein & Melk Abbey - Wachau stands out as one of the most captivating river valleys in Europe, earning UNESCO World Heritage status back in 2000. This well-known wine-growing region is also famed for its sweet and plump apricots - the Wachauer Marille is one of the few Austrian products protected as its own brand within the EU. Along the riverbanks orchards and lush vineyards climb up the hills, while charming towns and villages punctuate the landscape. One of these towns is Dürnstein, known for the ice-blue tower of its abbey, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his return from the Crusades.This morning, we'll take a guided walking tour to explore this memorable town further. We'll stop en route to taste three delicious wines, grown and produced locally.Back on board, whilst sailing through the Wachau Valley, we'll enjoy a delicious lunch celebrating Austrian specialities as we travel on to Melk Abbey. Nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of this enormous honey-coloured building, standing resplendent above the surrounding countryside. Originally a castle, it was gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th century and, although reconstructed in Baroque style during the 18th century, it has remained a monastic school and monastery ever since.The abbey is renowned for its 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery lined with portraits, many fine rooms and an ornate library. After we re-join the ship, dinner is served during the final part of our cruise upstream through the pretty Nibelungengau region, immortalised in the music of Wagner.

Linz or Salzburg - If you choose to stay in Linz, we'll take a guided walking tour, exploring its charming baroque old town. At its heart, you’ll see one of the finest squares in Austria, lined by grand pastel-coloured facades with an impressive central Trinity Column of white marble, crowned by a gilded sunburst. There’s also the fortress-like castle, built high above the city by Emperor Friedrich III, now a museum housing a fine collection of nineteenth and twentieth-century artworks.As we explore, we'll make delightful pit stops to indulge in some of the local delicacies. Among them is the Leberkassemmel, comprised of quality Austrian beef and pork, expertly blended and baked to perfection until a delectable brown crust forms, all nestled within a crisp and soft Semmel bun. Our guided tour also takes us to the Imperial and Royal Court Bakery - the oldest bakery in Linz - where we'll savour a coffee paired with the renowned Linzer Torte. This baked buttery torte is crafted with chopped almonds, sugar, and spices and filled with jam or preserves, and is thought to be the oldest known cake in the world. (Its oldest recipe is listed in a 300-year-old cookbook!) Then we'll relish the flavours of local beer at an authentic Austrian beer garden. This afternoon, you'll have ample free time to explore more of Linz independently.Alternatively, you could choose to travel to Salzburg for a guided walking tour. Salzburg, once an autonomous state, was transformed by its archbishops into a remarkably elegant city. The city's skyline is dominated by the imposing Hohensalzburg fortress, one of the largest stone fortresses in Europe. Below the fortress, the old town, or Altstadt, charms visitors with its church domes and spires peeking out from the picturesque cobblestone streets.As we meander through the paved streets and quaint alleyways, we'll encounter the birthplace of the renowned Salzburger Mozartkugel, a delectable confection featuring a delightful blend of marzipan and pistachio encased in nougat and coated in rich dark chocolate. We'll also see Café Tomaselli, Austria's oldest coffee house, established in 1700. It is said to have been frequented by Salzburg's favourite resident, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.After our tour, there'll be free time for lunch and independent exploration. If you'd like a treat to keep you going until dinner, we recommend a Salzburger Nockerl - a culinary speciality of Salzburg. This light and fluffy, three-peaked desert consists of a soufflé baked over a tangly layer of fruit jam dessert - it's a real treat for people with a sweet tooth! (Please note lunch is not included on this full day excursion.)We'll return to the ship for another splendid dinner.

Vienna - For many, today’s visit to Vienna will be one of the highlights of the cruise. The city’s very name provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of people who were drawn here from all corners of Europe.For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline.There’s also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world’s fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road.This morning, we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses.After our tour, why not enjoy a coffee in a typical Vienna café accompanied by a Sacher cake, a chocolate sponge with a thin coating of apricot jam, covered in chocolate icing and served with whipped cream.  It is so loved by locals that Austrians celebrate National Sacher Torte Day on the 5th December each year.This afternoon, we head to Gerstner confectioner in the grounds of Schönbrunn Palace. Founded in 1847, they have a long history of supplying the royal court with sweet treats and, today, we will witness the awe-inspiring expertise of master bakers for ourselves. Watch as they artfully prepare the original Viennese apple strudel. The delightful aroma of baked apples and cinnamon is sure to get your stomach rumbling and following their captivating presentation, we will have the opportunity to try these delectable creations for ourselves.Afterwards, there's time to explore Schönbrunn Palace - one of the most popular sights in Vienna. Experience the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty and maybe choose to tour the palace with its stunning architecture and richly furnished rooms, or simply stroll the expansive garden of this UNESCO World Heritage site.This evening, we have something special in store. Not only do we have our indulgent Chef's Dinner, but we've also organised a live musical experience on board. So, after this special dinner, sit back and enjoy an intimate classical recital. To hear this exquisite music in Vienna - where it was created - is truly the icing on the cake. 

Budapest - Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise majestically through Hungary’s peaceful pastoral landscape towards Budapest. After breakfast head up onto the sun deck to enjoy some fabulous river views as we cruise along the 'Danube Bend', surrounded by historic and picturesque cities like Visegrad and Szentendre. Castle ruins, churches, pretty houses perching on the hills, and thick forests are reflected in the waters of the river. Squeeze in a spot of reading on the sun deck or simply recline, letting the gentle breezes lull you into a relaxing doze.We'll arrive in Budapest after lunch for a guided tour of the Great Market Hall, a timeless gem nestled in the heart of the city. Established in 1897, it stands as the largest and most beautiful market in Budapest, offering a haven for fresh produce, souvenirs, and so much more. Accompanying our guide around the busy market, they’ll introduce you to the best stalls and teach you more about Hungarian “market etiquette”. Along the way, we'll sample traditional Hungarian foods.After our market tour, we'll discover the unique and renowned Hungarian speciality called Unicum, which is a distinctive herbal liqueur. This iconic drink, considered the national drink of Hungary, is created from a blend of over 40 herbs sourced from around the globe. Its closely guarded recipe has been a secret of its creators, the Zwack family, since its inception in 1790. At the museum, we’ll delve into the intriguing story of its creation and see a captivating collection of personal family memorabilia.Alternatively, you can explore Budapest at leisure. Castle Hill has two churches, seven museums and a theatre. Wander among streets and squares with their own special atmosphere and a dramatic view across the river to the awe-inspiring neo-Gothic Parliament Building. Budapest’s endless galleries, museums, and outstanding Art Nouveau architecture are also worth exploring and the city offers excellent shopping - a fittingly elegant end to your Danube cruise.This evening's dinner closes with a Hungarian folklore show, giving you time to bid farewell to your travelling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights, sounds and flavours you have experienced.

Return home

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If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special. 

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Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite available on the Ruby (middle) and Diamond (upper) decks. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.

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Suites on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement and are subject to availability.

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A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level!

The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.

The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly.

You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Suites on the Diamond (upper) and Ruby (middle) Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer!

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.