Join Us On the Blue Danube

Pre-Cruise: Two Nights in Munich – Bavarian Welcome

Your adventure begins with two nights at the elegant Platzl Hotel Munich, perfectly located in the heart of the city near Marienplatz and the famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall.
Spend your days discovering the sights, sounds, and flavors of Germany’s vibrant capital of Bavaria.
Highlights include:

• Visiting Marienplatz to see the famous Glockenspiel performance
• Exploring Nymphenburg Palace or the BMW Museum
• Sampling pretzels and Bavarian beer in a traditional beer garden
• Optional day trip to Neuschwanstein Castle, the real-life inspiration for Disney’s fairy tale castle
  

Vilshofen to Budapest on Avalon Tranquility II

Imagine sipping Bavarian beer in Munich one day, gliding past castles on the Danube the next, and watching Budapest sparkle by night from your luxury stateroom.
This September 2–9, 2026, CK Tours & Cruises invites you on an unforgettable journey aboard the Avalon Tranquility II, cruising the legendary Danube River from Vilshofen, Germany, to Budapest, Hungary — with two nights in Munich before the cruise and one night in Budapest after.
This immersive itinerary combines the best of Bavaria’s charm, Austria’s culture, Slovakia’s history, and Hungary’s beauty, all wrapped in the comfort and style of Avalon Waterways.

Cruise Itinerary

Day 1 – Vilshofen, Germany: Welcome Aboard
Your adventure begins in Vilshofen, a quaint Bavarian town where cobblestone streets meet the gentle flow of the Danube. After settling into your luxurious Panorama Suite aboard the Avalon Tranquility II, enjoy the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.
Vilshofen’s charm is irresistible — its small-town warmth and Bavarian beer traditions set the perfect tone for the week ahead.

Day 2 – Passau, Germany: The City of Three Rivers
Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau is where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz converge. Wander through winding alleys, colorful Baroque buildings, and the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to the world’s largest church organ.
For the active traveler, consider a bike ride along the scenic riverbanks or a climb to Veste Oberhaus Fortress for breathtaking panoramic views.
As the sun sets, the ship sets sail, and the twinkle of Passau fades behind — replaced by the serene rhythm of the river.

Day 3 – Linz, Austria: Culture and Cuisine
Wake up in Linz, Austria’s vibrant cultural capital. Stroll along the Danube promenade, explore modern art museums, or sample a slice of the city’s signature Linzer Torte.
For those seeking a deeper dive, an optional day excursion to Salzburg — Mozart’s birthplace — offers a journey into music, history, and the magic of The Sound of Music.
Whether you choose art or architecture, Linz delivers a delightful mix of the traditional and contemporary.

Day 4 – Dürnstein & the Wachau Valley: Beauty and Wine
As the Tranquility II glides through the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage treasure, you’ll be surrounded by terraced vineyards, ancient castles, and charming riverside villages.
Stop in Dürnstein, known for its blue baroque church tower and the ruins where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive. Wander the medieval lanes, sample apricot liqueur, and enjoy a wine tasting at a local vineyard.
It’s one of those days where time seems to stand still — a perfect blend of history, scenery, and savor.

Day 5 – Vienna, Austria: Imperial Grandeur
Few cities can match the grandeur of Vienna, the “City of Music.” Your morning guided tour showcases its iconic sights — St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and the State Opera House.
The afternoon is yours to design: stroll through the elegant Kärntner Strasse, relax at a traditional Viennese café, or explore world-class museums.
As evening falls, treat yourself to a classical concert featuring the timeless works of Mozart and Strauss — the perfect soundtrack to your Viennese experience.

Day 6 – Bratislava, Slovakia: Old-World Charm
A short sail downstream brings you to Bratislava, Slovakia’s enchanting capital. With its blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture, this compact city is best explored on foot.
Enjoy a guided walking tour through the Old Town, passing Michael’s Gate, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and the colorful main square. Don’t miss the playful bronze statues scattered throughout the city — including the beloved “Cumil” peeking from a manhole!
For a panoramic view, head up to Bratislava Castle, where the Danube sparkles below.

Day 7 – Budapest, Hungary: The Pearl of the Danube
Your grand finale awaits in Budapest, often called the “Pearl of the Danube.” As you sail into the city, marvel at the breathtaking Hungarian Parliament Building, a true masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture.
A guided tour introduces you to Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Heroes’ Square, before giving you time to explore the city’s famous thermal baths or bustling Central Market Hall.
In the evening, the Avalon Tranquility II offers a Farewell Dinner, followed by a spectacular night cruise — as Budapest’s bridges and monuments shimmer under golden lights, you’ll understand why this is one of Europe’s most beloved cities.

Post-Cruise Stay: One Night in Budapest – Grand Finale

After disembarking, continue your journey with a one-night stay at the luxurious InterContinental Budapest, ideally located along the Danube promenade.
Wake up to stunning views of Buda Castle and enjoy one more day to savor this incredible city — shop at the Central Market Hall, visit the Great Synagogue, or enjoy a final Hungarian meal overlooking the Chain Bridge.
Your European journey concludes with memories of castles, cathedrals, vineyards, and new friendships that will last a lifetime.

Life Aboard the Avalon Tranquility II

The Avalon Tranquility II offers an intimate river cruising experience with elegant décor, regional cuisine, and panoramic suites that transform into open-air balconies.
Enjoy fine dining, cultural enrichment programs, and the gentle rhythm of Europe’s most storied river.

Why Travel with CK Tours & Cruises

For over 25 years, CK Tours & Cruises has been turning travel dreams into reality.
When you join this Danube journey, you’ll enjoy:
Expertly curated experiences and personalized service
Exclusive group amenities and guided excursions
Seamless planning and on-site support
A community of fellow travelers who love discovery as much as you do

Join Us on the Danube!

From your pre-cruise stay in Munich to your farewell morning in Budapest, this journey captures the very best of Central Europe — its history, culture, cuisine, and beauty.
Join CK Tours & Cruises aboard the Avalon Tranquility II, September 2–9, 2026, and let the Danube carry you through the heart of Europe in unforgettable style.
✨ Reserve your place today — and celebrate travel, friendship, and discovery with us on the Blue Danube!