What to Expect
PACING: You'll visit 12 ports of call in 15 days during your European river Cruise, spending 14 nights aboard the
m/s River Splendor. There will be plenty of time to enjoy the wonders of a Danube, Main, and Rhine river cruise, with views of castle-crowned vistas, medieval townships, and the grand capital cities of Vienna and Budapest. This itinerary features overnight and full-day stays in many ports, with the ship departing late in the evening.
EASY & FAST WALKING TOURS: On your European river cruise, you'll have a chance to join included walking tours that go at an easier leisurely pace or some that go at a faster clip, depending upon your abilities and preferences. Either way, you won't miss any highlights, and on some tours you'll have free time to walk on your own.
PHYSICAL ACTIVITY: This is a very active itinerary with many included walking tours. The Rhine and Danube river valleys are steep and many of the places you'll visit rise up along the river banks. Therefore, you can expect short uphill walks from the ship as you set out to visit town centers. Many of the walking on tours is over uneven terrain, cobblestone walkways, and flagstone paths. Motorcoaches are used whenever possible to bring you as close to the pedestrian centers as the historic preservation of these older towns and cities allow. Castle visits often require climbing flights of stairs. Panoramic city tours use air-conditioned private motorcoaches.
Please note: Vantage river cruise ships are not wheelchair accessible and there are steps on board.
CULTURAL FOCUS: European river cruising is the perfect way to take in the legendary scenery of the Rhine and Danube, which has been lauded in music and writing throughout the ages. The fairytale nature of the region is enchanting, while the historic importance of the rivers to the heritages of Germany, Austria, and Hungary is evident as well. The Main and Rhine river cruise portion introduces you to stunning medieval architecture and an intriguing cultural legacy. The Danube River cruise portion features areas, such as the beautiful Wachau Valley, that are unfamiliar even to travelers who have been to Europe many times. Vantage's exclusive "Cultural Connections" activities, which include lectures, demonstrations, concerts, wine tastings, and a few meals ashore in local restaurants (or lunch money for meals on own), provide you with opportunities to truly experience the cultures and traditions of the places you visit.
Important Notice:The above day-by-day itinerary is preliminary and subject to change. If changes occur while on tour, you will be notified by your Cruise Director or regional expert. In addition, should there be an extreme change in water levels, Vantage will do everything possible to provide either the included excursion or an alternate excursion at Vantage’s discretion.
Please Note: Port times & itineraries are subject to change. Fluctuating water levels may affect itinerary.
