Serenity on the Danube

4.3/5 Based on 3 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
River View
$3,863
Balcony
$4,882
Suite
$6,021
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
8 Days
 Cruise Starts
Munich
 Cruise Finishes
Budapest
8 Day Serenity on the Danube Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary
Ship
Departures
Passengers
180
Crew
51
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
EWPA-3

Overview

A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns. Embrace the evocative magic of a European winter as the legendary Danube River takes you through some of the continent’s most captivating and historical cities. Set sail on your award-winning Star-Ship for an unforgettable voyage. Experience a traditional Bavarian band on board. Leisurely cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and experience the genuine warmth of Austrian hospitality. ...read more />
Explore Ceský Krumlov, a delightful Czech town that is home to one of the best-preserved ancient centres in Europe. Experience for yourself why the magnificent Austrian capital, Vienna, is renowned as the ‘Capital of Art,’ home to world-class museums, historic architecture, and centuries-long tradition of culture and music. While in the Slovakian capital, Bratislava, soak up the romance of the 18th century Old Town as you stroll atmospheric cobblestone streets, and in fascinating Budapest, immerse yourself in Hungary’s rich history and vibrant culture, with time to enjoy at your own pace.

Itinerary

Welcome to Germany and Munich, where you'll be transferred to your stylish Emerald Cruises Star-Ship awaiting in Passau. Upon your arrival on board, you'll then be warmly greeted by your friendly captain and crew and later this evening, you'll join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner.

Please book your flight to arrive into Munich prior to 02:00 PM. (D)

Embark on a guided tour of Passau, exploring this German city's beautiful Old Town, which features charming Baroque buildings, stunning riverside views and narrow cobblestone streets. At this time of year, you'll find this area infused with the aroma of freshly-baked gingerbread, a local delicacy. Known as the ‘City of Three Rivers,' this important historic trading centre is beautifully situated where three of Europe's main waterways converge – the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers – and bordering Austria, displays a distinctive blend of cultures (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided Tour of Passau
  • DiscoverMORE Bavaria Live (extra expense)

Today, you'll visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Ceský Krumlov. This quaint Czech town is home to one of the best-preserved ancient centres in Europe, boasting more than three hundred protected medieval buildings and an iconic castle complex. Enjoy an insightful guided tour of this enchanting historic enclave, including the 15th century St. Vitus' Church and a series of delightful Gothic façades, each transporting you back to the Middle Ages. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Guided tour of Ceský Krumlov
  • DiscoverMORE Walking tour of Linz with a Linzer Torte making (extra expense)

Today, sit back and relax as you cruise down the mighty Danube River in the early hours of the morning, passing by some of the world's most esteemed wine-producing vineyards and gaze over the peaceful Wachau Valley, before arriving in Melk. During your included tour of this delightful Austrian town, stroll through the gold-leaf halls of Melk Abbey. Originally a lavish castle that was gifted to Benedictine monks during the 11th century, this opulent Baroque building houses some of the most important collections of medieval manuscripts in the world (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Tour of Melk Abbey
  • DiscoverMORE Vineyard hike & wine tasting in Weissenkirchen (extra expense)

Today, explore the classical charms of Vienna and discover why this magnificent Austrian city is regarded as the ‘Capital of Art.' Your tour includes a visit to the iconic Kunsthistorisches Museum, one of the world's premier art museums, exhibiting an extensive collection of art and historical artifacts. The museum's galleries house masterpieces by renowned artists such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, Titian, and Raphael, as well as fascinating ancient Egyptian exhibits and classical antiquities. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Art tour of Vienna including Kunsthistorisches Museum
  • DiscoverMORE Exclusive Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

This morning, relax on board your stylish Star-Ship as you sail into the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava. This graceful nation became an independent country in 1993, and since then, charming Bratislava has flourished as Slovakia's new capital and made a name for itself as a cultural centre. The romantic cobblestone lanes that weave through the city are yours to explore with your insightful local guide. Enjoy your fascinating tour of the 18th century Old Town, taking in the Slovak National Theatre and a wealth of Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings.

Tonight, relish some typically local Slovakian entertainment on board your Star-Ship. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Panoramic tour of Bratislava
  • EmeraldPLUS Local Slovakian entertainment on board
  • DiscoverMORE Carpathian Wine route (extra expense)

Welcome to Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube,' where a memorable conclusion to your unforgettable journey awaits. Today, explore the city's cobblestone streets and medieval quarter, as you embark on a coach tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Your insightful guide will explain to you all about the Hungarian capital's culinary scene as you tour the neo-Gothic Grand Market, Budapest's largest and most expansive indoor market. Afterwards, you'll have the opportunity to explore this vibrant market at your own pace. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Budapest tour with Grand Market visit
  • EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
  • DiscoverMORE Tour to Szentendre (extra expense)

This morning after breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, leaving with cherished memories of apricot orchards, impressive art works, Baroque and medieval buildings, bustling markets and many other regional treasures of Europe.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Dawn

Emerald Dawn
Emerald Dawn

Indulge in exquisite first class dining and amenities when you take a European river cruise on Emerald Dawn. Read more

You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS
You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS

Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more

EmeraldACTIVE
EmeraldACTIVE

Ignite your sense of adventure and explore a little further on foot or by bike. Read more

Five Star Dining On Board
Five Star Dining On Board

Enjoy the finest flavours of Europe prepared by the expert culinary team aboard your river cruise. Read more

Cultural Shows & Entertainment
Cultural Shows & Entertainment

From onboard shows to local performances, there's never a dull moment during an Emerald Cruises river cruise. Read more

Wellness and Beauty
Wellness and Beauty

Pamper and relax with a massage or facial and recharge with a yoga class on the sun deck. Read more

Trip Reviews (3) Most Recent 'Serenity on the Danube' Reviews

4.3
AVG. RATING 4.3 / 5
3 Reviews
5 Star
67%
4 Star
3 Star
33%
2 Star
1 Star
Splendour of Europe -Jul 2024 0 , New Zealand, Jul 2024
Trip was really good, though wasn't aware that there was a pick up from train station if arrived at start city via train. As a result we had to stay a night at start city unnecessarily.
A wonderful break 3 , Christchurch, New Zealand, Jun 2024
The Danube was flooded and the ship couldn't travel as planned but Emerald kept us well informed and provided excursions that were just as exciting as the cancelled ones. We had a great time, saw amazing things and met some lovely people. We did not feel we missed out on anything with the changes. Well done Emerald.
Fantastic European River cruise 4 , QLD, Australia, May 2019
We had a fantastic trip from the initial contact with Global Journeys to the final day of the cruise. Nothing was too hard for Hannah and her communication with us was excellent. Emerald were great, the organisation of the cruise left nothing wanting, from pickup in Amsterdam to drop off at Budapest Airport. The cruise itself was very well planned, ...read more the ship is only three years old which was great. Wonderful and friendly staff and of course the food: what can be said about it , other than excellent. We would highly recommend this cruise. Our Cruise Director could not have been better, she was very knowledgeable of all areas of the rivers travelled. The shore tour guides supplied by Emerald, also, were very good and enthusiastic about the towns they were showing us.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Super Earlybird
Saturday 14 Mar 2026
Saturday 21 Mar 2026
Ship Emerald Dawn
River View
Save $832
$3,863
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $1,043
$4,882
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Suite
Save $1,354
$6,021
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Super Earlybird
Wednesday 18 Mar 2026
Wednesday 25 Mar 2026
Ship Emerald Star
River View
Save $832
$3,863
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Balcony
Save $1,043
$4,882
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Suite
Save $1,354
$6,021
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Super Earlybird
Tuesday 17 Nov 2026
Tuesday 24 Nov 2026
Ship Emerald Sky
River View
Save $832
$3,863
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Balcony
Save $1,043
$4,882
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Suite
Save $1,354
$6,021
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75% Off Single SupplementSuper Earlybird
Saturday 14 Mar 2026
Saturday 21 Mar 2026
Ship Emerald Dawn
River View
Save $844
$4,991
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Balcony
Save $3,108
$8,092
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Suite
Save $1,422
$12,678
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75% Off Single SupplementSuper Earlybird
Wednesday 18 Mar 2026
Wednesday 25 Mar 2026
Ship Emerald Star
River View
Save $844
$4,991
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $3,108
$8,092
View Cabins
Suite
Save $1,422
$12,678
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Super Earlybird
Tuesday 17 Nov 2026
Tuesday 24 Nov 2026
Ship Emerald Sky
River View
Save $847
$5,288
View Cabins
Balcony
Save $1,096
$10,104
View Cabins
Suite
Save $1,422
$12,678
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Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Emerald Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Emerald Cruises. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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