2013 - TM Europe River Cruising

AUSTRIA – Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna was the Rococo summer residence of the Habsburg monarchs for centuries THE MAIN-DANUBE CANAL Day 10. Bamberg. One of the few German cities that wasn't destroyed during World War II, World Heritage- listed Bamberg beckons this morning. You'll gain great local insight during a locally guided tour of the beautiful city centre, which boasts historic churches and palaces, as well as a number of famous breweries and taverns. 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 that 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 series of stair-step locks. THE DANUBE RIVER Day 12. Regensburg. Having reached the Danube River overnight, Regensburg – the epitome of medieval Europe – awaits at the confluence of the Danube and Regen rivers. Here, a guided tour tells of the 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. Later, enjoy free time to explore the charming narrow alleyways and admire the impressive architecture of this well-preserved Bavarian jewel. Day 13. Passau, Linz. Wake up this morning in the pretty 'Three Rivers City' of Passau – so-called because it's here that the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. On disembarking, go for a stroll past Baroque- style St Stephen's Cathedral, the Gothic Rathaus (town hall), a 13th-century fort and the city's acclaimed glass museum. Then cruise across the border into neighbouring Austria on the way to Linz. As an alternative to today's activities, you may instead opt to take a drive to Mozart's home town, Salzburg, for a tour of the city's 'Sound of Music' sights. An excursion to the Czech Republic to visit the enchanting town of Ceský Krumlov is also on offer (see page 49 for details). Day 14. Melk, Dürnstein. BLD This morning will see your ship docking in Melk. Here, a local guide will take you on a tour through Melk Abbey, a Baroque structure that has survived as an active Benedictine monastery continuously since its foundation back in 1089. After the tour, cruise to the quaint town of Dürnstein, where a guided walk takes you over cobbled streets past 16th century town houses and taverns. You'll find the town dominated by the hilltop ruins of the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. Tonight, unwind with an evening of wine tasting. Day 15. Vienna. BLD Home to a range of striking architecture, classical music and a vibrant café culture, your river ship docks in the centre of Vienna today. Join a tailor-made walking and coach tour of Austria's celebrated capital, which treats you to an insider's view of its best-loved landmarks. – www.travelmarvel.com.au – Take in a variety of architectural masterpieces, showcasing Baroque and Romanesque design, that represent many centuries of development. You'll also see the 1980s expressionist icon of Hundertwasserhaus. Like a Local – this afternoon, enjoy a quintessentially Viennese tradition with a visit to an old Schnapps distillery for a tour and tasting. Day 16. Vienna. BLD With the day at leisure, you're able to map out your own personal discovery of Vienna. You may like to visit Schönbrunn Zoo or perhaps wander through the Hofburg area – home to the National Library, the Imperial Treasury, the Spanish Riding School and more. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, a lavish Baroque palace where for centuries Austria's Habsburg monarchs resided in summer (see page 49 for details). This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional concert experience showcasing Mozart and Strauss' music (see pages 49 for details). BLD 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 city, Budapest. See this enthralling city through the expert eyes of your local guide as you visit Matthias Church, the Fisherman's Bastion, Heroes' Square, Buda Castle and the city's ornate Houses of Parliament. Awed by its illustrious history and magnificent architecture, you'll soon come to understand why Budapest enjoys its reputation as 'The Paris of Central Europe'. During one final evening on board, enjoy the chance to recount stories of your time aboard at a special Farewell Dinner. BLD

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