2016 - TM Europe River Cruising

42 Day 10. Bamberg. One of the few German cities that wasn't destroyed during World War II, World Heritage- listed Bamberg beckons this morning. Gain a great local insight during a guided tour of the beautiful city centre. Later, your ship will reach the Main-Danube Canal. BLD Day 11. Nuremberg. The site of Hitler's now infamous Nuremberg rallies, held annually from 1927 to 1938, Nuremberg played a pivotal role for the Nazis during World War II. You'll learn about the city and indeed the era during a fascinating World War II tour, which includes such sites as the Zeppelin Field and the Palace of Justice. Afterwards, continue over the Main-Danube Canal, crossing Europe's Continental Divide (435 metres above sea level) thanks to the canal's 16 stair-step locks. BLD Day 12. Regensburg, Vilshofen. Having reached the Danube River overnight, Regensburg awaits at the confluence of the Danube and Regen rivers. Here, a guided tour tells of the medieval city's journey through the ages. See the ancient Stone Bridge, which gracefully arches across the water, as well as the Old Town Hall, the World Heritage-listed city centre and the Porta Pretoria – gates to a Roman fort built in 179 AD. A Taste of Bavaria – later, enjoy your very own private Bavarian experience as you sample local beer and Bavarian snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance. BLD Day 13. Passau, Linz. Awake in the pretty 'Three Rivers City' of Passau, where the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. On a guided walk, take in the city's impressive architecture, then cruise across the border into Austria on the way to picturesque Linz. Here, spend time discovering this cultural and pretty city where the Danube changes direction. Enhance Your Journey: Perhaps visit Salzburg for a tour of the city's sights, or explore the enchanting Czech town of Ceský Krumlov (see page 118). BLD Day 14. Melk, Dürnstein. Dock in Melk and join a local guide for a tour through magnificent Melk Abbey, an active Benedictine monastery since 1089 that sits majestically atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River. Proceed to the quaint town of Dürnstein, where you can walk over cobbled streets past 16th-century town houses and taverns. You will find the town dominated by the hilltop ruins of the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. BLD Day 15. Vienna. Home to a range of striking architecture, classical music and a vibrant café culture, Vienna is sure to delight as you drive around Vienna's Ringstrasse, housing numerous monumental buildings including the majestic Vienna State Opera and the exquisite Museum of Fine Arts. Join an enthralling walking tour, and be treated to an insider's view of Vienna's best-loved landmarks, including the iconic St Stephen's Cathedral, Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina. Like a Local – enjoy a Viennese tradition with a visit to the famous Naschmarkt. Here, you may be able to sample some local delicacies, including Kaiserschmarrn and Palatschinken. BLD Day 16. Vienna. With the day at leisure, you may like to further explore Vienna's Hofburg area – home to the Imperial Treasury, the Spanish Riding School and much more. Enhance Your Journey: Visit Schönbrunn Palace; explore Bratislava; or attend a private Mozart and Strauss classical concert (see page 118). BLD Day 17. Budapest. Today, enjoy views of one of the Danube's most enchanting riverside cities as your ship drifts right into the heart of Hungary's capital, Budapest. See the city through the expert eyes of your local guide as you explore Matthias Church, the Fisherman's Bastion, Heroes' Square, Buda Castle and see the Houses of Parliament. Learn all about the city's colourful history as you discover its undeniable charm and beauty. After a Captain's Farewell Dinner, set off on a lovely twilight cruise through the heart of Budapest as the magnificent monuments light up along the Danube River. BLD Day 18. Disembark Budapest, Velké Bílovice, Prague. After breakfast, bid farewell to your river ship. 18 Day guests (EUTCPB18) depart tour. Board a coach and pass through neighbouring Slovakia, bound for the Czech town of Velké Bílovice. Enjoy free time in this enchanting town, before continuing to Prague. Enjoy three nights exploring this city of stone bridges, Gothic cathedrals and golden towers, overseen by a commanding castle. Stay (Three Nights): Prague, Grandior Hotel. B Day 19. Prague. Today's exploration commences with a guided tour of the Old Town, Prague's historic World CZECH REPUBLIC – appreciate the spectacular beauty of Prague – www.travelmarvel.com.au –

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