The Blue Danube - Budapest to Passau

Feel the rhythm of the past as you embark on the maiden voyage of the eco-luxury ship Century Star from the historic city of Budapest. Once upon a time, the Co-Capital of the Great Austro-Hungarian Empire. And today, a dazzling, must-see destination. A very befitting city for the launch of a modern and luxurious Century STAR. But, sailing on Century Star is not about cruising on the Danube River. Or a launching of the new ship on the longest River in Europe. It’s about a testament to the epic global achievement where east meets west, in the heart of Europe, on the Danube River. This is where history is in the making, and it is set to sail on September 18, 2026. Today, enjoy a Welcome Drink at the bar and Lounge on the second deck, interiors fully inspired by Vienna’s architecture.

Experience the dual personality of Budapest as you cross the historic Petofi Bridge over the Danube. Feel the spark and bustle of Pest side give way to charm to the royal, scenic Buda. Glimpse at the famous Gellert Hill, steeped in stories of yore, echoing along the banks of the Danube. The hill was named after Saint Gellert, who was thrown from its heights during a pagan revolt in 1046. Take a photo of the Parliament building, which is the home of the Holy Crown of Hungary. The central dome’s height is 96 meters (315 feet), a mystical number honouring the year 896 AD, when the country was founded. The architecture of the building bears a strong resemblance to the Palace of Westminster in London. Cross the imposing Margaret Bridge. It’s named after a medieval princess, St Margaret, who lived on the island located in the middle of the Danube River. Continue to St. Stephen’s Basilica named after St. Stephen, the first King of Hungary and founder of the Hungarian state. Inside, the basilica houses the Holy Right Hand of St. Stephen, one of the country’s most treasured relics. The building’s dome rises 96 meters, matching the height of the Parliament dome, symbolizing the balance between church and state. Take a stroll to Gresham Palace, a grand Art Nouveau landmark at the heart of Budapest. Soak in the atmosphere of pedestrian-friendly Zrinyi Street, known for its cafés, shops, and historic buildings. Later tour the famous Kossuth Square named after Lajos Kossuth, a Hungarian national hero. Continue to the Heroes’ Square, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the Museum of Fine Arts and the Palace of Art. It also houses the imposing Millennium Monument, featuring the Archangel Gabriel at the top and statues of Hungary’s kings and leaders below. After exploring splendours of Budapest return to Century Star for departure to the former capital of Hungary, Esztergom.

Welcome to the time machine of Europe: Esztergom Castle, gilded with Roman, medieval, Ottoman, and Habsburg history. It’s known as the largest church in Hungary, offering the spellbinding views of the Danube. Pass through Gabicevo lock one of the biggest inland navigation locks in Europe where the lock lifts or lowers ships by around 20–23 meters, depending on river conditions.

Visit the capital city of Slovakia, Bratislava, once the coronation city for Hungarian kings. Today, it’s a charming city of colorful Baroque buildings and medieval churches. Explore Bratislava Castle, perched above the Danube, offering panoramic views of Bratislava, Austria, and Hungary.

Step ashore from the Century Star vessel in Vienna, where the Danube meets the heart of the city. Enjoy the stunning Baroque gardens of Belvedere Palace, with lavish fountains, sculptures, and scenic views of Vienna. Marvel at the Vienna State Opera House, which opened in 1869 with a staging of Mozart’s Don Giovanni. Travel through Baroque, Gothic, and modern design at the heart of Vienna and the famous Stephansplatz. Wander through Michaelerplatz, a landmark square located in front of the Hofburg Palace. Admire the Hofburg Palace, the seat of power for Habsburg rulers for over 600 years. Today, it houses the office of the Austrian President, countless museums, and the renowned Spanish Riding School, famous for its Lipizzaner horses.

Explore Austria’s Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, by visiting the famous Dürnstein Abbey. A Baroque church complex renowned for its blue-and-white tower is one of the landmarks along the Danube. Walk the scenic paths, the Treppelweg, an old term for towing paths, once used by workers and animals to pull boats upstream before engines existed. Pause at Dürnstein’s charming City Hall, nestled in the village square amidst vivid streets and period buildings along the Danube.

Linz is a true city when it comes to “the meeting of old and new.” The charming Baroque city meets cutting-edge architecture.

Disembark in charming Passau where German tradition and Italian beauty meet the river magic. Transfer to the airport for a flight back home.