From the Gypsy violins of Budapest to the romantic sounds of Vienna, the “City of Music,” this European river cruise highlights the natural beauty of Austria’s Wachau Valley, and the fascinating capital cities of Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria. Before your cruise, spend two nights in Budapest, where guided sightseeing shows you the highlights of this vibrant capital. Also, enjoy plenty of time to explore Budapest on your own. Take pictures from Fishermen’s Bastion, walk across Chain Bridge, or enjoy a cream cake in the renowned Gerbeaud Café.

Board your Avalon Suite Ship and head upriver to Bratislava. For a 58-mile stretch, the middle of the Danube forms the border between Hungary and Slovakia, and guided sightseeing awaits you in Slovakia’s capital. In Melk, you will visit Austria’s majestic Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe’s largest monasteries, sitting high above the breathtaking views of the Danube River and surrounding countryside. Cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley and spend free time in Dürnstein, known for the striking blue façade of its baroque Stiftskirche below the castle ruins where England’s King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192.

Disembark your river cruise for two nights in the Austrian capital of Vienna. Enjoy guided sightseeing as well as free time on your own to relax, perhaps visit the famous Sacher Hotel for a taste of Sachertorte (a special chocolate cake), and stroll along the famous pedestrian street of Kärntnerstrasse.