9 Night Gems of the Danube with Munich Cruise and Land Tour from Munich

Welcome to Munich, the largest city and capital of the German state of Bavaria. With a long and powerful heritage, the city dates back to the 11th century and over the centuries has been a witness to some important historical events. Munich's rich tapestry is woven with tales of royalty, scientific innovations, and cultural milestones. Explore its storied streets, and you'll uncover a city that seamlessly merges its illustrious past with the vibrancy of modern life. This evening, join your tour director and fellow travelers for a welcome drink at your hotel.

Seamlessly blending modernity and history, Munich offers a captivating atmosphere. The city's unique character will become more evident during this morning's guided panoramic tour. Starting with a short drive to Schloss Nymphenburg, you'll explore the perfectly symmetrical lavish estate just outside the city, built as a royal summer residence. You will also see the beautiful Englisher Garten, one of the world's largest public gardens, and the Isartor, the medieval city gates of the city, before ending in the heart of the town, the medieval Marienplatz. Here, you'll encounter Munich's most iconic landmarks. The Neues Rathaus (New Town Hall) is home to the famous Glockenspiel, a colossal clock adorned with over 30 life-sized historical figures. Three times daily, these figures come to life to perform for the crowds below. This afternoon, make the most of your free time. Perhaps find a cozy beer garden and sample some world-renowned Bavarian beer, or stroll Maximilianstrasse, one of Munich's most prestigious avenues complete with designer fashion, jewellery, and a wide selection of impressive art galleries.

Soak up the last of your free time in Munich before transferring to the city of Regensburg, one of the most picturesque cities in Germany. With over 2,000 years of history, this is the perfect location to start your eight-day ultra-luxury cruise along the enchanting Danube River. Settle into your luxurious suite onboard your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship. Most suites have an all-weather balcony that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Danube.

Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany's best-preserved medieval town centers, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings UNESCO World Heritage-listed. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country.

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as 'white gold'. Each river is distinct in color and some days you can clearly see the green, blue, and black hues where the waters meet. At the center of the Baroque city, the 13th-century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways, tunnels, and archways, including an "Artist's Mile" where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops, and galleries.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria's scenic Wachau Valley. The city's breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage-listed Benedictine abbey built high over the city is the most spectacular building in the region. Sailing the Wachau Valley, you will be mesmerized by the sloping vineyards and charming villages. This afternoon, we are docked in the quaint town of Durnstein, where you have ample free time to wander at your leisure. Surrounded by vineyards, the town has historical buildings that date back to the 12th century, including the hilltop ruins of Durnstein Castle where Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned between 1192 and 1193. While you indulge in the spectacular views, it's also the perfect opportunity to indulge in some delicious local produce from the Wachau Valley. Your cruise director will organize a special treat for you and invite a local producer onboard to share some regional delicacies that are famous in this region. Sample some apricot dumplings and local schnapps among other delights in this breath-taking location.

Wake up in Vienna this morning. Also known as the City of Music, Austria's imperial capital fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. This city oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces from parks to vineyards, a vibrant coffee-house culture, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.

Slovakia's capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.

This afternoon we arrive in Budapest, one of Europe's most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene.

After a hearty breakfast, you'll be transferred to Budapest Airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful memories with you.