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36 1 This evening, enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board. Sample local beer and 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, stroll past the city's colourful buildings, such as the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) on the riverbank. You'll soon see that Passau flaunts a distinctly baroque character, as the town was rebuilt in the style after two catastrophic fires destroyed it in the 1600s. Later, cruise across the border into beautiful Austria, towards the picturesque city of Linz. 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. After, cruise to Dürnstein, where a walk through the cobbled streets leads to 16th-century town houses and taverns. The town is overlooked by the hilltop ruins of the castle where legendary King Richard the Lionheart. BLD Day 15. Vienna Embrace the splendour of the former Habsburg empire and the sheer elegance of Vienna as you drive around the Ringstrasse. You'll learn about some of the city's most famous buildings – the Vienna State Opera House, the Museum of Fine Arts and more – as well as the rich classical music culture and history. Upon arriving in the city centre, join a walking tour for an insider's view on a number of landmarks, including St Stephen's Cathedral, the Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina. After, pay a visit to the famous Naschmarkt. Browse the fresh produce stalls and sample some local delicacies, including delicious Kaiserschmarrn and Palatschinken. BLD Day 16. Vienna Today you decide on how to shape your experience in glorious Vienna, a cultural utopia of music, art and food. Perhaps you fancy a visit to the Hofburg area – here you'll find the Imperial Treasury, brimming with bejewelled crowns and precious gems, as well as the Spanish Riding School. This famous school is home to the celebrated Lipizzan horses, an exquisite breed that are impeccably trained in the art of dressage. If you're feeling peckish, perhaps head to a cosy coffee house where you can try a traditional Sachertorte – a chocolate tart with a lush apricot filling. You'll be spoilt for choice in a city so rich in attractions, so be sure to ask your expert Cruise Director for any insider tips. You may like to embark on one of our optional excursions, choosing from a visit to Schönbrunn Palace, an intriguing trip to Bratislava, or an evening Mozart and Strauss concert (see page 108). 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. After breakfast, the history, beauty and charm of Budapest is illuminated as a local guide leads you through the city. You'll explore Matthias Church, a breathtaking symphony of colour that displays flawless beauty both inside and out, as well as Fisherman's Bastion and Heroes' Square. The turbulent history of the regal Buda Castle is sure to astound you, as this birthplace of Hungarian kings has been besieged no less than 31 times since its inception. You'll also have the chance to see the city's most famous structure, the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building, perched on the edge of the Danube River. After a Captain's Farewell Dinner tonight, set off on a magical twilight cruise through the heart of Budapest and relish views of the glittering monuments lining either side of the river. BLD Day 18. Budapest, Disembark Ship, Prague After breakfast, 18 Day (EUTCPB18) guests depart the tour with a transfer to the airport. Remaining guests board a coach and pass through the striking rural landscapes of Slovakia before crossing the border into the Czech Republic. Accented by undulating lime green hills covered in vineyards, the gorgeous southern countryside of the Czech Republic is a wine lovers dream, and you'll stop to admire the idyllic scenery before continuing to Prague. With a three-night stay, you will have plenty of time to soak in the magic of this beautiful capital, a city of stone bridges, gothic cathedrals and golden towers, overseen by a royal castle. This evening, maybe go for a stroll beside the shimmering Vltava River and look forward to your final few days in a truly enchanting city. Three Nights: Prague, Grandior Hotel. B