Cruise the Heart of Europe: Journey along the Rhine, Main and Danube

14 nights - 16 May 2027

MS Riviera Radiance| Europe Holiday ID: 046068

Cologne

Koblenz

Mainz

Miltenberg

Würzburg

Bamberg

Nuremberg

Regensburg

Passau

Melk

Vienna

Bratislava

Budapest

Cologne Cologne Cologne Cologne Cologne Koblenz Koblenz Koblenz Koblenz Koblenz Mainz Mainz Mainz Mainz Mainz Miltenberg Miltenberg Miltenberg Miltenberg Miltenberg Würzburg Bamberg Nuremberg Nuremberg Nuremberg Nuremberg Nuremberg Regensburg Regensburg Regensburg Regensburg Regensburg Passau Passau Passau Melk Melk Vienna Bratislava Budapest Budapest Budapest Budapest Budapest

CALL NOW

View prices as:

PER PERSON TOTAL PRICE

Select Package

CRUISE ONLY

FLY CRUISE

Select Cabins

Emerald Deck

CALL CALL

Ruby Deck

CALL CALL

Diamond Deck Suite

CALL CALL

Select Cabins

Emerald Deck

CALL CALL

Ruby Deck

CALL CALL

Diamond Deck Suite

CALL CALL

Select Cabins

Emerald Deck

~~WAS £4449pp~~ From £4271PP

Ruby Deck

~~WAS £5399pp~~ From £5183PP

Diamond Deck Suite

~~WAS £5699pp~~ From £5471PP

(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Riviera Travel under ATOL number 3230

Please click here to check the essential travel requirements before booking this cruise.

Call our cruise experts now and customise your cruise with flights, hotels, land tours and more

Call us free for the best advice and exclusive deals 08081234118

Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

THE
RIVER VOYAGES DIFFERENCE

Our sister brand RiverVoyages is Europe’s leading expert in river cruise holidays. Click here to view this itinerary in full and speak to our team of river cruise specialists, here to help you plan your perfect cruise along the world’s most scenic waterways. With access to exclusive offers and savings, we’re ready to help you plan every detail of your next river cruise holiday.

Itinerary

List Timeline

Cologne

Arrival in Cologne - Arrive in Cologne and board your ship in the late afternoon. If you're here before then, enjoy free time in Cologne.On arrival, the dedicated English-speaking crew will welcome you aboard your first-class floating hotel, ensuring you settle into your luxurious and we... Read More

Day 1

16 May 2027

Cologne

More Info

Day 2

17 May 2027

Koblenz

More Info

Day 3

18 May 2027

Rhine Gorge, Germany

More Info

Day 4

19 May 2027

Mainz

More Info

Day 5

20 May 2027

Miltenberg

More Info

Day 6

21 May 2027

Würzburg

More Info

Day 7

22 May 2027

Bamberg

More Info

Day 8

23 May 2027

Nuremberg

More Info

Day 9

24 May 2027

Regensburg

More Info

Day 10

25 May 2027

Passau

More Info

Day 11

26 May 2027

Melk

More Info

Day 12

27 May 2027

Vienna

More Info

Day 13

28 May 2027

Bratislava

More Info

Day 14

29 May 2027

Budapest

More Info

Day 15

30 May 2027

Budapest

More Info

Koblenz

Rhine Gorge, Germany

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim - Today you experience one of the real highlights of your cruise – the passage through the Rhine Gorge. Here the river narrows, the current is swifter and the towering valley sides soar 600 feet, while the ruins of castles, which once held sway over passing mariners... Read More

Mainz

Miltenberg

Würzburg

Würzburg - Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning as we glide towards Würzburg, situated at the head of Germany’s Romantic Road, so called because of its spellbinding procession of captivating scenery, medieval towns, lofty castles and grand palaces.Würzburg is best explored by foot, a... Read More

Bamberg

Bamberg - Another day dawns and this morning is free to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities while admiring the magnificent undulating landscape. The foredeck features exquisite outdoor furnishing and there’s nothing quite as refreshing as the gentle breeze as we progress along the serene... Read More

Nuremberg

Regensburg

Regensburg - One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation, so this morning, after a leisurely breakfast, perhaps catch up on some reading or simply watch the world float by as we cruise along the Main–Danube Canal to Kelheim, where we join the Danube River.Bef... Read More

Passau

Passau - Another day dawns as our journey brings us to Passau, the last town we stop at in Germany, nestling where the Inn and Ilz Rivers join the Danube.After breakfast take the opportunity to explore the ‘Three Rivers City’, overlooked by the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fort... Read More

Melk

Melk - On a striking rocky bluff above the town of Melk is the enormous Benedictine Abbey, which we visit this morning. This extraordinary building was originally a castle that was subsequently bequeathed to the Benedictine order during the 11th century and has been a monastery ever since.... Read More

Vienna

Bratislava

Bratislava - This morning we explore Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, which has shrugged off the greyness of the communist era and rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its painstakingly restored Baroque Old Town.Wander the winding streets to the main square where you’ll find th... Read More

Budapest

*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

16 May 2027

Cologne

17 May 2027

Koblenz

Koblenz & Boppard - The first morning on a river cruise is always a thrill as you awake to the gentle lapping of the water and the colourful valley sides slipping effortlessly past your cabin window. We call at historic Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers and dominated by the immense Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.This morning we take a guided walk around the old town, exploring its twisting streets and charming squares.During a relaxed lunch, we cruise to Boppard, known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’, with free time to explore under your own steam. Wonderfully situated on a sweeping meander, it is one of the Rhineland’s most attractive villages. Its stone quayside is lined with boats of all descriptions, set against a backdrop of archetypal half-timbered buildings and cobbled streets.Uncover Boppard's fascinating Roman past, seeing the superb 4th-century fortress and walls, reputedly the finest and best-preserved in the country. You’ll also see the striking St Severin Church, with its lovely stained glass and the picturesque marketplace, encircled by colourful facades.This evening, delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance using traditional instruments.Personalise Your Holiday -Cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein fortress and visitDuration: At leisurePrice: from £23pp (2027)Take a scenic cable car over the Rhine River to the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress, which stands 118 meters tall on its riverbanks. Built by the Prussians to fend off the French, it's the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe, with an unparalleled view of Koblenz and the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Here, you can explore the castle's 1000-year history at leisure before returning to Koblenz by cable car.Optional excursion can be done during free time or instead of the walking tour of Koblenz.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

18 May 2027

Rhine Gorge, Germany

19 May 2027

Mainz

Mainz - This morning we take the short cruise to the town of Mainz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers, for a city walking tour. An important Roman city for over 450 years with the largest amphitheatre north of the Alps, Mainz is also home to the magnificent Romanesque Saint Martin’s Cathedral and Saint Stephen’s Church, whose interior is filled with beautiful blue light flooding through stained glass windows featuring intricate biblical figures – a masterpiece by the great artist Marc Chagall.On the tour, wander the crooked streets of the old town and city centre to discover the half-timbered houses and historic Roman Catholic monuments, finishing at Saint Stephen’s where you’ll have the opportunity to admire the vibrant Chagall windows up close. After the tour you have time to see the striking Cathedral and bustling marketplace. Take in the atmosphere of this river port city and marvel at the architectural feat of the 13ft sandstone ‘Heunensäule’ which dates back to 1,000 AD. Mainz’s most famous son is Johannes Gutenberg, father of modern printing, and there’s an excellent museum housing a reconstruction of his workshop and two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles, among the earliest books ever printed.This afternoon our ship cruises up the Main River. Due to locks and low bridges the main part of the sun deck will be closed between Mainz and Passau. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the Riverview Kitchen and the lower section of the sun deck are still accessible. On board your floating boutique hotel in the afternoon, find a relaxing seat in the lounge to take in the lovely views of lush woodland and fertile vineyards seamlessly idling by. As evening approaches, why not enjoy an apéritif in the bar before choosing a table in the restaurant to enjoy the chef’s masterful creations for dinner?Personalise Your Holiday -Guided tour of the Gutenberg MuseumDuration: 1.5hrsPrice: £11pp (2026) and £12pp (2027)Join our guide for a tour of the Gutenberg Museum, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, a native of Mainz, who invented printing with movable metal type over 500 years ago! It houses a reconstruction of his workshop and, outstandingly, two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles.Founded in 1900 by Mainz citizens, the museum highlights the history of letterpress printing through technical tools, typesetting machines, and printing presses. As a "World Museum for the Art of Printing," it features sections on the origins of printing in East Asia, scripts from the Islamic world, and the development of manuscripts. Other displays cover the history of printing presses, bookbinding, fine press techniques, and the production of paper and colours.This optional excursion can be chosen instead of the walking tour of Mainz.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

20 May 2027

Miltenberg

Miltenberg & Wertheim - The views this morning are of dense emerald, green forests as we cruise to Miltenberg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval villages, where we enjoy a guided tour. It became prosperous during the Middle Ages under the protection of its castle and today its colourful half-timbered houses and market square with its octagonal Renaissance fountain are an atmospheric reminder of times past.Embark on our intriguing walking tour, to see one of the most beautiful marketplaces on the Main, the “Schnatterloch”, encircled by proud half-timbered houses, with their steeply gabled roofs and charmingly decorative facades. You’ll see the former Waaghaus, the old town hall and the oldest inn in Germany, dating back to the 15th-century. If you would like to have more time to explore independently, you can choose a shorter orientation walk followed by free time.During lunch, we cruise around the first of the many meandering bends that characterise the Main River, before learning more about the history of glassblowing and watching a fascinating demonstration of this historic craft.This afternoon we’ll discover the secrets of Wertheim on a walking tour. Overlooked by a mighty ruined castle, it’s a joy to stroll through the town’s atmospheric streets, soaking up the ambience of this delightfully picturesque spot. As you wander the quaint and colourful market square, look out for the blink-and-miss-it Zobelhaus, a contender for the narrowest house in Germany.Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something more active, consider joining a tour to Wertheim Castle. After an easy yet steep climb, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the old town and the river landscapes of the Main and Tauber. The castle has overlooked the city since the 12th century, although it was partially destroyed during the Thirty Years' War. Its ruins are filled with fascinating history waiting to be explored.This evening you’ll be served another delectable dinner, and overnight we cruise to Würzburg.

21 May 2027

Würzburg

22 May 2027

Bamberg

23 May 2027

Nuremberg

Nuremberg - Today we call at Nuremberg, the Bavarian city which will always be associated with the Nazi period – Hitler’s pre-war rallies and the international war crimes trials that brought down the final curtain on that notorious regime. What is less well known is that Nuremberg is regarded as the unofficial capital of Germany’s First Reich, better known as the Holy Roman Empire, which was founded with the coronation of Charlemagne in 800 AD and lasted for over a thousand years.This morning you have two choices:Choose to explore Nuremberg’s medieval history with a panoramic coach tour of the city culminating in a visit to the majestic Nuremberg Castle. This fortress, symbolizing imperial power, stands as a testament to the city’s heritage, once serving as the residence for Holy Roman Emperors. Here you'll encounter the opulence of the Knights' and Imperial Hall, a Romanesque double chapel, and an engaging exhibit that unveils the inner workings of the Holy Roman Empire. Additionally, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from Sinwell Tower or look down into the Deep Well. After time to explore the castle, we'll enjoy a walking tour down to the old town ending with free time to explore Nuremberg at leisure.Alternatively, you can combine Nuremberg’s rich medieval history with its significance in WWII. Nuremberg was considered the spiritual home of the Nazi Party, hosting massive propaganda events like the annual party rallies at the Zeppelin Field and serving as the birthplace of the Nuremberg Laws. After WWII, it became the site of the Nuremberg Trials, where top Nazi leaders were held accountable for war crimes in the Palace of Justice. Today, we'll stop to visit the rally grounds and pass the courthouse before leaving the coach to see the castle and finish with a walking tour of the old town. As we wander, we'll learn more about the city's long history, and see many of its medieval sites, like the Hauptmarkt Square (where the enchanting Christmas Markets are held) and the Old City Hall.Later, we return to the ship for lunch.We continue our cruise so it’s the perfect opportunity to relax and make the most of the ship’s excellent facilities. Indulge in a treatment in the spa or simply find a comfy seat in the lounge with an afternoon cup of tea and enjoy the views.

24 May 2027

Regensburg

25 May 2027

Passau

26 May 2027

Melk

27 May 2027

Vienna

Vienna - Imagine Vienna and you think of an elegant imperial city that’s one of the gems of Central Europe, and perhaps the world’s most musical city. Its name conjures up an image of culture, ornate architecture, resplendent cafés, aristocratic palaces and imposing cathedrals, with the romantic music of the great composers filling the air. In fact, the reality is little different and there’s an absolute wealth of things to see in this former capital of the Habsburg Empire, which held sway over much of Central and Eastern Europe for centuries until its demise at the end of the First World War.For such a grand city Vienna is quite compact and this morning we enjoy an enlightening guided tour. This most civilised of cities first rose to prominence in the 17th century, and over the next 200 years a magnificent array of galleries, churches and palaces was built. At its heart we have the lovely Saint Stephen’s Cathedral with its dazzling patterned roof of glazed tiles, then the awe-inspiring Hofburg Palace, the former royal court that’s now a collection of museums, home to the Crown Jewels and relics of the Holy Roman Empire as well as the famous Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs.After the panoramic tour on coach along the Ringstrasse, the famous boulevard, built where the city walls once stood and lined with many of the most important sights, you can choose to continue your tour on foot through the old town or explore independently.The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy this wonderful city at your leisure.During another exquisite dinner back on board, we leave Vienna behind and head for our next stop, the Slovakian capital Bratislava. Afterwards, perhaps retire for a digestif in the bar to reflect on all the wonderful sights you’ve seen so far and the people you’ve met on this unforgettable river cruise.Personalise Your Holiday -Visit the Spanish Riding School, ViennaDuration: 1hrPrice: £33pp (2026) and £35pp (2027)Enjoy a visit to the Spanish Riding School, the only institution in the world that has practised classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the haute école for over 440 years and continues to do so. On this guided tour you will get a glimpse behind the scenes, see the stables of the Lippizaner horses, the training grounds and learn about the history, equestrian traditions and horses. Please note during 6 weeks in summer, the horses are on their holiday, therefore you won’t see any during the tour.This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna.This guided tour doesn’t include a performance of horses. Other available events like the morning training sessions and performances vary depending on the day of the week of your visit and season. Details can be found on www.srs.at/en/tickets-events/ where we recommend you book your tickets directly prior to travel.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.Personalise your holiday -Guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace & gardens in ViennaDuration: 4hrsPrice: £65pp (2026) & £74pp (2027)Join us for a tour of Schönbrunn Palace with a local guide. Once a summer residence in the countryside, Schönbrunn now serves as an oasis of architectural beauty and tranquillity in the heart of 21st-century Vienna, thanks to the city's expansion. On our guided tour we’ll see the palace’s highlights, including the state rooms and private apartments of the Habsburg emperors.Besides the tour of the palace, you will also see the impressive grounds, walking along the main avenue to the aptly named "beautiful" fountain. You will have some free time to explore at leisure, before returning to the ship.This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

28 May 2027

Bratislava

29 May 2027

Budapest

Budapest - You rise refreshed in this breathtakingly beautiful imperial capital that straddles the great Danube River, and we have a whole day to enjoy it. Dominated by its castle, Budapest has been called ‘Little Paris of Middle Europe’ and, with its truly magnificent skyline of soaring spires and grand domes, it’s not hard to see why. It’s renowned for the bewitching blend of monuments reflecting Hungary’s national culture and those of the foreign powers that have dominated most of the city’s history.Today Budapest is a collage of Roman ruins, Turkish baths from the Ottoman Empire, palatial buildings, Baroque churches and sensational Art Nouveau architecture and design – all wrapped up in a wonderful atmosphere enhanced by the unique sound of Hungary’s music and language.You’ll really get to know this beguiling city on our guided tour, and this morning you have a couple of choices:If you choose the panoramic coach tour, you’ll drive past some of Budapest’s famous sites, including the Opera House, Gellert Baths, chain bridge, the iconic Parliament building, and more, and stop for photos and some time to explore at Hero’s Square and Buda castle.Alternatively, you can choose our active tour, where you’ll take a coach to the castle district. From here, you’ll take lifts up to the castle terraces to begin a guided walking tour around the castle area and Fisherman’s bastion. You’ll then have free time to wander the ancient streets of the Castle District while you enjoy panoramic views of the city before heading back to coach for the transfer to the ship. This tour involves uneven grounds and a lot of walking so we only recommend it for customers who are comfortable with a moderate activity level.You have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure, and culturally you’re spoilt for choice with the city’s array of fine museums and art galleries.You could stroll down elegant Andrassy Avenue or visit the spectacular Central Market Hall, where you can find everything from traditional foods to handicrafts.Afterwards you return to the ship for your final dinner on board and, later, enjoy a coffee in the lounge with your travel companions while sharing memories of your exploration of the heart of Europe on this splendid cruise.

30 May 2027

Budapest

Return home - Flight time permitting, enjoy free time in Budapest before your journey home.

Explore MS Riviera Radiance

Riverview Kitchen on MS Riviera Radiance

Riverview Kitchen

The Riverview Kitchen, located at the stern, is available at no extra charge for lunch and dinner. It offers a more intimate dining experience with an open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating so you can admire the fantastic views. Here in the evenings,You can enjoy a more informal experience that takes its inspiration from a traditional Grill restaurant.

Onshore Experiences on MS Riviera Radiance

Bikes

A small number of bicycles are available on board for our guests. Please enquire at the reception desk for information.

Panorama Lounge and Bar on MS Riviera Radiance

Cruise Director and Reception on MS Riviera Radiance

Panorama Lounge and Bar

The Diamond Deck is home to the social hub of the ship, the Panorama Lounge and Bar. From here, you can watch the waters of one of Europe's most beautiful waterways rush by and spot the small settlements that reside on the riverbank. And, after the day's adventure, you and your sun-kissed fellow travellers will congregate here to swap stories and discuss the highlights of the day, returning after dinner to enjoy a digestif and the evening's entertainment.

Wellness Area

On the Emerald Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or, for something less strenuous, you could treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

Sun Deck

Sun Deck
Sun Loungers
Plunge Pool

Diamond Deck

Specialty restaurant
Panorama lounge
Bar
Grand Suites
Superior Suites
Double Cabins

Ruby Deck

Engine Room
Lobby
Main Restaurant
Galley
Shop
Reception
Travel Desk
Superior Suites
Double Cabins

Emerald Deck

Engine Room
Crew Area
Specialty Restaurant
Wellness Area
Fitness Area
Double Cabins

Double Cabin - Diamond Deck on MS Riviera Radiance

Double Cabin - Ruby Deck on MS Riviera Radiance

Double Cabin - Emerald Deck on MS Riviera Radiance

Double Cabin - Diamond Deck

Imaginatively designed and well-appointed, our 16 square metre Double Cabins offer all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel. A full-sized double bed ensures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen. Double Cabins on the Diamond Deck have a French Balcony – panoramic floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that bring riverside life just that little closer!

Careful consideration has been given to every detail with individually controlled air-conditioning so you can set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee-making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience.

Features

Individual climate control
Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
Table and chairs
Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

FLOORPLANS

Double Cabin - Diamond Deck floor plan on MS Riviera Radiance

Facilities

Double or Twin Configuration
Lounge Area
Shower
Toiletries Provided
Room Service Available
TV
Free Wi-Fi
Coffee Machine
Safe
Hair Dryer
Telephone
Desk
Air Conditioning
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)

Superior Suite - Diamond Deck

Our spacious Superior Suites are 24 square metres with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony that slide open, bringing you that much closer to the beautiful waterway beyond. Between onshore adventures, you can watch the world go by through the window from the comfort of your separate living space - featuring a sofa, chair and table.

Throughout the suite are the thoughtfully appointed, high-quality furnishings and fittings that Riviera Travel are known for. The cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe, a lounge chair and small table and tea/coffee-making facilities are available in every room. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower.

Features

Individual climate control
Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels and hairdryer
Desk & chair
Telephone and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

FLOORPLANS

Superior Suite - Diamond Deck floor plan on MS Riviera Radiance

Facilities

Double or Twin Configuration
Shower
Toiletries Provided
TV
Coffee Machine
Safe
Hair Dryer
Telephone
Desk
Air Conditioning
Lounge Area
Room Service Available
Free Wi-Fi
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)