01904 521 936
Tour Search



Europe
River CruiseRiver Cruise

Glacier Express, Austrian Alps & Danube Cruise

 
3.8 stars(8 reviews)
You are viewing the 2026 itinerary. Select your departure year
202520262027
Duration
14 days
From per person
£3,999
Tour code
WER26
Mobility Rating 3
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Gallery
Map

Experience the legendary Glacier Express before embarking on a cruise, discovering the cultures and beauty along the Danube river

This carefully curated holiday takes you on an unforgettable journey through some of Europe's most scenic and culturally rich destinations. The adventure starts on the shores of Lake Geneva to experience the breathtaking Swiss Alps before boarding the iconic Glacier Express.

Our explorations continue with a luxurious cruise along the Danube, visiting historic capitals such as Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna. Along the way, discover charming villages, picturesque vineyards, and imperial landmarks, all while enjoying guided tours, wine tastings, and cultural performances.

Unforgettable Experiences

Travelling on the iconic Glacier Express
Travelling on the iconic Glacier Express
Embark on one of the world’s greatest rail experiences with a journey through astonishing snow-capped peaks and alpine valleys as we travel in panoramic carriages.
Experiencing the beauty of Budapest
Experiencing the beauty of Budapest
Immerse yourself in the sensational ‘Pearl of the Danube’ with a guided tour that includes its striking castle, stunning buildings, and impressive monuments.
Savouring the Lavaux region
Savouring the Lavaux region
Visit this beautiful UNESCO-listed region in Switzerland, famous for its winemaking tradition that dates back to Roman times and enjoy a tasting of world-class wines.
Exploring elegant Vienna
Exploring elegant Vienna
Discover the Baroque streets and imperial palaces of this noble city on a guided tour and enjoy time at leisure where you can discover Viennese coffeehouse culture.
Discovering Innsbruck
Discovering Innsbruck
Stay in this magnificent city in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps with a stunning alpine backdrop, historic Old Town, charming architecture, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Discover more amazing experiences

Explore a world of incredible destinations and travel moments, from hidden gems to iconic sights.

Budapest

Fairytale Bavaria & Delights of the Danube

13-day holiday

Explore the majestic mountains and castles of Bavaria and cruise leisurely along the delightful Danube, one of Europe's most iconic rivers.

View Cruise

Prague

Imperial Cities & Delights of the Danube

13-day holiday

Explore the historic sites of Berlin and Prague by rail before embarking on a luxury Danube river cruise through Vienna and the Wachau Valley.

View Cruise

Budapest

Delights of the Danube: Budapest to Passau

11-day holiday

Sail from Hungary to Germany on one of Europe's most diverse rivers, exploring imperial culture, grand architecture and picturesque towns.

View Cruise

Itinerary

DAY1A stunning start in Lake Geneva

Meeting at London St Pancras, our holiday begins as we board the Eurostar to Paris. From here, we continue by rail to Lake Geneva. Known for its deep blue waters, scenic vineyards, and luxurious resorts, the Lake Geneva region offers breathtaking landscapes. Straddling France and Switzerland the lake is overlooked by the stunning Alps.

On arrival, we transfer to our hotel in the picturesque town of Vevey where we spend the next two nights. We gather for our first dinner together this evening as we look forward to all the exciting experiences ahead on your holiday.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2The Lavaux wine region

Today begins with a local train to Cully in the Lavaux region, where terraced vineyards rise majestically from the shores of Lake Geneva. This UNESCO World Heritage site is filled with sun-drenched slopes, historic villages, and panoramic views.

We journey through the enchanting landscape on a local land train before visiting a nearby winery. Here, we have a talk from the owner followed by a wine tasting with some nibbles. Lavaux produces exceptional wines, mainly Chasselas, a crisp white variety.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY3The iconic Glacier Express to Chur

Today, we board the magnificent Glacier Express. Our panoramic journey takes us through undeniably Swiss scenes of green meadows, dense, evergreen forests and snow-capped mountains, ambling along the beautiful Rhine Valley aboard 'the slowest express train in the world'. We spiral up the mountains, crossing vast viaducts, burrowing through tunnels and rising above the clouds on our way to Chur.

As we arrive and check into our hotel, you can explore the rich history, culture, and sights of Switzerland's oldest village, before dinner this evening. Wander the Altstadt - the Old Town - to discover the authentic restaurants and relaxed bars that add to the town's atmosphere.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY4Arrival in Innsbruck

This morning we leave Switzerland behind and cross over into Austria by rail to Innsbruck. Located in the Inn Valley and set against the dramatic backdrop of the Alps, Innsbruck is known for its imperial buildings and quaint Old Town. Magnificently preserved, this area still reflects the Tyrolean capital's historic and cultural past, boasting Renaissance and Baroque buildings, as well as traditional Tyrolean architecture. After checking into our hotel, the rest of the evening is free to explore or relax.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY5Day 5 – The Zillertalbahn Railway to Mayrhofen

A journey on the Zillertalbahn railway awaits today. Marvelling at the beauty of Austria's Tyrol region, we wind our way through the region passing Tyrolean towns, lush meadows, and majestic peaks. Our destination is the ski resort of Mayrhofen, where you can explore at leisure this afternoon. The town's picturesque streets are paved with cobblestones and lined with shops, restaurants, and pavement cafes.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY6Boarding our luxurious ship in Budapest

We travel by rail to the Hungarian capital of Budapest, where our luxurious ship awaits. Welcomed onboard by our friendly crew, we have a cocktail in the lounge and admire the views before our first dinner on board - accompanied by a performance from a traditional Hungarian folklore troupe.

Once the sun begins to set, we embark on a night-time cruise along the Danube, taking in the illuminated sights of Budapest. From the piercing spires of the iconic neo-Gothic Parliament building to Buda's huge Baroque castle, the state buildings lining both banks are lit up, as well as the Chain Bridge. Whether you choose to relax in the cosy lounge or take in the panoramic views from the sun deck, this is the best way to see this beautiful city as the flickering lights cast a magical glow across the Danube - the perfect start to our cruise.

Please Note - For departures on 3rd September our ship will be the MS Amadeus Nova.

For departures on 26th September our ship will be the MS Amadeus Star.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY7Day 7 – Exploring Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’

This morning, we delve deeper into the beauty and history of Budapest that we saw illuminated last night. On a sightseeing tour of the Hungarian capital, known as the 'Pearl of the Danube', we explore its impressive buildings and monuments. From Heroes Square, the State Opera House and St Stephen's Basilica on the flatter Pest side, to Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion on the Buda hills, each site reveals the grandeur and charm of this appealing city.

There's time at leisure after lunch on board. You could explore the castle district further, pick up some souvenirs or Hungarian paprika at the Central Market Hall, or relax in one of the city's extensive parks.

Sailing upstream through the evening, we navigate the scenic Danube Bend. This section of the river has a long and fascinating history and from the sun deck or panoramic windows in the bar, you'll have the best views as we pass the village of Visegrad, famous for its hilltop castle, and Esztergom, the former capital of Hungary.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Uncovering the old-world charm of Bratislava

Making our way to Slovakia's capital, we are welcomed by views of Bratislava Castle's gleaming white walls.

Despite being a national capital, beautiful Bratislava is nicknamed the 'Little Big City' due to its compact size. On our tour, we admire attractive squares, idyllic streets, grand palaces and historic churches. Keep an eye out for some of Bratislava's quirky statues, including a sculpture commemorating Schöne Náci, an eccentric local character, and Čumil, a subterranean worker peeking out of a manhole. From the hilltop castle, soak up views across the terracotta roofs of the Old Town and the SNP Bridge - also known as the UFO bridge because of its futuristic design.

After the tour and lunch onboard our ship, you have free time to explore at leisure. Enjoy wandering the Old Town's charming streets, where each corner reveals delightful views, or head out of the centre to uncover iconic Soviet-era architecture, such as the inverted pyramid of the Slovak Radio building or the 12-ton stainless steel linden flower in the Union Fountain. This evening, we set sail again after dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY9Day 9 – Embracing the imperial majesty of Vienna

After a peaceful overnight cruise, the noble city of Vienna beckons. On arrival, we embark on a guided tour to uncover Austria's imperial heritage. With our expert guide, we make our way to the illustrious Ringstrasse boulevard. Here, we see many of Vienna's most ornate buildings including the world-renowned Opera House and the imposing Parliament.

Following the tour, there's time to explore the city at leisure. It's a delight to stroll amongst its scenic streets, marvelling at the striking St Stephen's Cathedral or entering one of the countless museums and galleries that bring the city's history to life. You may choose to visit Schönbrunn Palace, once the summer residence of the ruling Habsburg family or indulge in a slice of famous Sachertorte, a delicious Viennese cake, at one of the grand coffeehouses.

Tonight, a real treat awaits us in the lounge as we're joined by four previous members of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra who whisk us away with their performances of well-known classical pieces.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY10Melk Abbey and the scenic Wachau Valley

Arriving in the riverside village of Dürnstein, there's free time to wander the charming streets and admire its powder blue Baroque church tower. Dürnstein is also home to the hilltop castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned during the 12th century, and we get a great view of it from the riverside.

Back on the ship, we enjoy lunch as we set sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley - truly a highlight of the Danube. This scenic area of green valleys and vineyards is dotted with attractive riverside towns and commanding fortresses. It is also one of Austria's most famous wine-making regions, specialising in Grüner Veltliner.

Docking in Emmersdorf this afternoon, we set out for a visit to Melk Abbey. This 11th-century Benedictine Abbey stands atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube. On our guided tour, we see the abbey's church, one of the most beautiful Baroque churches north of the Alps.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY11Day 11 – Salzburg and the Austrian Lake District or Český Krumlov

Waking in beautiful Linz, there are two excursions to choose from after breakfast.

The first option is a day trip to Salzburg, a striking city overlooked by Hohensalzburg Fortress set high on a hill. Enroute, we stop in the Austrian Lake District for a beautiful photo opportunity before arriving in Salzburg. During a guided sightseeing tour, we explore Getreidegasse, the street on which Mozart was born. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with stunning Baroque architecture, beautiful churches, quaint squares and charming alleyways that we can admire on our explorations.

Alternatively, join an excursion into Czechia to visit Český Krumlov, a small Bohemian town that looks like something straight out of a fairytale. On a tour, we explore the palatial castle, occupying an imposing position high above a bend on the Vltava river. A guided walk around the UNESCO-listed Old Town - followed by time at leisure - reveals idyllic streets and picture-perfect squares surrounded by ornately gabled Baroque houses.

We return to our ship for dinner on board and set sail for an overnight cruise into Germany.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY12Day 12 – Crossing the German border to Passau

Today, we conclude our relaxing cruise along the Danube. Drifting through beautiful scenery into Germany, we admire rising hills covered with vineyards and orchards. The ever-changing landscapes create a picturesque backdrop, occasionally revealing charming villages, medieval castles and centuries-old monasteries that cling to the hilltops.

After lunch, we arrive in our final port of call, the Bavarian town of Passau. We get to know the town as we embark on a guided tour of Passau, which is known as the 'Three Rivers City' because it sits at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers. The delightful Old Town is filled with Baroque architecture, including St Stephen's Cathedral, and lies in the shadow of the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fortress.

Tonight, we enjoy our farewell gala dinner on our ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY13Day 13 – From the Danube to the Rhine-side city of Cologne

It's time to leave our ship this morning as we say goodbye to our wonderful crew after breakfast.

Making our way to the rail station, we board a train for a journey through Germany to the city of Cologne. Standing on the Rhine River, this grand city is dominated by its Gothic cathedral with two piercing spires. Just outside Cologne's main train station, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a symbol of the city, and the largest church in northern Europe.

After checking in to our hotel for an overnight stop, there's free time to explore before our final dinner together this evening.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY14Homeward bound

This holiday has showcased the landscapes of Switzerland aboard the Glacier Express and the Austrian Alps followed by the beauty of the Danube from Budapest to Passau. From natural wonders such as the Danube Bend and the Wachau Valley to the famed cities and pretty villages lining its banks, the Danube has revealed the beauty of central Europe.

Leaving Cologne by rail after breakfast, we travel to Brussels where we then board the Eurostar to London. On arrival at London St Pancras, your Danube holiday comes to a conclusion.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Info - Travel Options

We offer a Standard Class and First Class rail options for departures on this tour. You can find out which class each departure is by clicking on the information button in the pricing grid. (Look for S - Standard Class and F - First Class)

Departure times

Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices & Availability' button. We write to all booked customers approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise the exact departure and return time for their particular group.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

What’s included on the tour?

Trains & Ships

More information on the different trains and ships that are used on this tour.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin DS | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Suites - Upper Deck

Travel in luxury and style when you choose one of our Deluxe Suites. Our largest en-suite cabins, at 26.4 square metres, a walk-out balcony, walk-in wardrobe an river-view lounge area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin A1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Upper Deck

These en-suite cabins are stylish and impressively spacious at 17.5 squre metres, with a panoramic window balcony, walk-in wardrobe and seating area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin B1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Middle Deck

These en-suite cabins are stylish and impressively spacious at 17.5 squre metres, with a panoramic window balcony, walk-in wardrobe and seating area.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Cara Cabin C1 | Great Rail Journeys
Classic Stateroom - Lower Deck

Our Classic Staterooms offer quality, and elegance with space to relax in comfort at the end of the day. And we recognise the importance of having somewhere inviting to retire to after an engaging day of cruising or excursions. These 16 square metre en-suite cabins offer a wide picture window and large walk-in wardrobe.

Find out more

Enhance your holiday

London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

Read more

We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels
UK rail connections

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

Read more

We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.

UK train tickets

Reviews

3.8 stars3.8 / 5 · 8 reviews

  1. 5 stars
    (3)
  2. 4 stars
    (2)
  3. 3 stars
    (2)
  4. 2 stars
    (0)
  5. 1 star
    (1)

val horsfall

5 stars

Submitted 26 Jun 2024

A very interesting scenic holiday with lots to see and explore ,enjoying good food and wine ,and entertainment .

Collected by Trustpilot

val horsfall
View Gallery

Happy customer

5 stars

Submitted 28 Sep 2023

Amazing experience with knowledgeable tour manager. Incredible architecture and stunning vistas, beautiful ship, thoroughly spoiled!!!

Collected by Trustpilot

Diana

5 stars

Submitted 06 Aug 2023

Good experience, lots of trains and great cruise up the Danube.

Collected by Trustpilot

geoffrey greenwood

4 stars

Submitted 13 Sep 2024

First 6 days were tiring, cruise was excellent

Collected by Trustpilot

Susan

4 stars

Submitted 02 Oct 2022

Danube cruise perfect - staff /room /food great Train journey a little frantic at times / early starts not sure we needed this as we are on holiday. courier - fine / Hotels fine though hardly there enough to appreciate the breakfast on some...

Collected by Trustpilot

Ann

3 stars

Submitted 24 Jul 2024

The river cruise was amazing. The rail journeys to and from the boat were stressful. 4 days travelling on numerous trains for unto 9 hours per day. Also a number of venues were changed after booking. Would fly to the boat next time.

Collected by Trustpilot

Show all 8 reviews
River Cruise Holidays 2026

Download the brochure

Experience the magic of cruising along some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways. Glide serenely along the romantic Rhine, explore the blue Danube or meander through the enchanting Douro Valley. With our river cruises, you’ll drift through beautiful landscapes and historic towns.

Download PDF Order brochure

Related inspiration from our journey blog