The Blue Danube - Passau to Passau

Upon arrival in historic Passau, a personalized transfer takes you to the eco luxury Century Star vessel, your elegant home for the next 14 days.

Experience the grandeur of Vienna, the imperial capital for over a hundred years. Wander the city’s majestic streets and cobbled avenues, where history and art intertwine, shaping Vienna into the elegant lady of the Danube. Explore the gardens of Belvedere Palace, where Baroque beauty meets tranquil charm, and discover why Vienna is known as the City of Gardens. Admire the iconic Vienna State Opera, a symbol of the city’s cultural richness. From there, continue through the imperial heart of the city, passing Hofburg Palace, Michaelerplatz, and the storied Imperial Stables, before arriving at the vibrant Stephansplatz.

Solt, MoSail through Solt, shaped by river trade, medieval wine production, and local legend. According to one story, King Béla IV once hid here and left two golden keys that now adorn the town’s seal. Continue to Mohács, a small Hungarian town famous for the 16th-century Battle of Mohács, which led to the fall of the Hungarian monarchy and the rise of Ottoman and Habsburg rule.

Welcome to Singidunum, Belgrade as it was known during the Roman Empire, whose strong presence can still be seen beneath the City Library. It is located at the entrance to the Kalemegdan Fortress, a testament to the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires. Belgrade is one of the rare cities in Europe to have been ruled by all three empires. The architecture is layered and unapologetically honest — a city that wears its turbulent past with pride. While walking through the fortress, notice the influence of one empire over another. The Austrian Clock overlooks the tomb of the last governor of Belgrade under the Ottoman Empire. From the edge of the thick walls, admire the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Local legend says that Genghis Khan’s last wish was to be buried at the meeting point of the mighty Danube and the gentle Sava. Explore one of the oldest Orthodox churches, whose chandeliers are made from ammunition used by the Serbian Army during WWI – faith and survival shown side by side. Then join the city’s pulse on Knez Mihailova Street, Belgrade’s lively promenade, and finish with a touch of old-world glamour at Hotel Majestic, once home to Elizabeth Taylor.

Visit the Golubac Fortress, strategically perched where the Danube narrows into the famous Iron Gate Gorge. The first mentions of Golubac Fortress date back to Roman times, when there was a military outpost here. Over the centuries, it marked the border between different empires – Turkish, Hungarian, Serbian, and Austrian – and as such, it has witnessed countless battles. The fortress changed hands many times until 1867, when it was finally handed over to the Serbs. Try to reach the oldest tower, Tower Number 1, known as Sesir Kula, or Hat Tower, where a small Serbian church stands inside. From this vantage point, the views over the Danube are simply breathtaking.

Discover the heart of Ruse on a panoramic tour with two perfect photo stops at Liberty Square and Battenberg Square. Take a leisurely stroll through Liberty Square, the iconic symbol of the city and a must-see for every visitor. While the square itself cannot be reached by bus, we’ll get as close as possible, allowing you to soak in the atmosphere on foot. As night falls, the square comes alive with spectacular lighting, and at its center stands the impressive Liberty Monument, a true highlight for your photos and memories.

Discover the highlights of Mamaia, often called the “Pearl of the Romanian Riviera”, renowned for its golden sands, lively promenade, and panoramic views of the Black Sea. From here, journey into the rich history of the region at the ConstanÈ›a Archaeological Park, where the ancient Greek colony of Tomis once thrived. Wander among excavated ruins, the stroll back through the charming old town, passing key landmarks including the museum and the cathedral.

Explore Bucharest, or “Little Paris,” as it’s known for its elegant architecture, grand boulevards, and vibrant cultural life. Stroll through the Old Town (Lipscani), exploring charming streets, historic squares, and architectural treasures that reflect centuries of Romanian heritage. Continue to the Old Princely Court, where Wallachian rulers once governed, and admire landmarks such as the Cantacuzino Palace, a symbol of the city’s neoclassical elegance.

As Century Star glides through the dramatic Iron Gates Gorge, try to locate the famous Tabula Traiana, an ancient Roman inscription carved over 2,000 years ago. Commissioned by Emperor Trajan, it marks the incredible feat of building a road through these sheer cliffs during his war campaigns. Seen only from the river, this historic plaque commemorates the remarkable feat of building a road through towering cliffs with the skill and determination of the time. Across the river, the towering Decebalus rock sculpture gazes back, telling the story of the Dacian king who once ruled this land. Together, they make this stretch of the Danube a journey where history, legend, and breathtaking scenery meet.

Discover Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, dominated by the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress. The Fortress, perched on the banks of the Danube in Novi Sad, is famous for its unique “reverse clock,” where the longer hand indicates the hours instead of the minutes—originally designed to help local fishermen tell the time from afar. Construction of the fortress began in 1692 under Charles Eugene de Croy, a distinguished Field Marshal of the Habsburg Empire who defended the region against Ottoman attacks on Belgrade, creating a remarkable historical landmark that dominates the city skyline.

Take a leisurely city walk through Aljmaš, exploring its charming streets and historic sites. Visit the Svetište Gospe Aljmaške and the Kalvarija, experiencing the town’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage.

Experience the elegance and grandeur of Budapest on a tailored coach and walking tour. Begin with a scenic drive across Petőfi Bridge, taking in sweeping views of Gellért Hill, and pause for photos with the majestic Parliament building. Continue via Margaret Bridge to the iconic St. Stephen’s Basilica, then stroll through the sophisticated pedestrian Zrínyi Street to admire the architectural beauty of Gresham Palace. Rejoin the coach for a picturesque drive along the Danube, before exploring the historic Kossuth and Heroes’ Square, where you can appreciate the city’s rich history and artistic heritage. Conclude the tour with a drive along Andrássy Avenue, passing the stunning Hungarian State Opera, returning to Century Star in style.

Explore Bratislava Castle and its historic grounds while learning about the castle and the town’s rich heritage. Continue to the charming Old Town, where a guided stroll takes you past Main Square, Michael’s Gate, and other historic landmarks, showcasing the city’s architecture and culture. The tour concludes at the Slovak National Theatre (Opera House) or along the Danube bank, from where guests are free to continue exploring Bratislava on their own before returning to the ship at their leisure.

Stroll along the scenic Treppelweg into the charming town of Dürnstein, where cobbled streets and historic buildings tell tales of centuries past. Admire the elegant City Hall and soak in the atmosphere. Continue with a guided visit to the stunning Dürnstein Abbey, marveling at its Baroque architecture and rich history, with a moment to quietly explore the chapel on your own. The journey concludes with a leisurely walk back to the ship, leaving you with lasting memories of this enchanting corner of the Wachau Valley.

Disembark in the charming city of Passau after fifteen unforgettable days exploring the history and culture of Europe along the majestic Danube, all from the comfort and elegance of the luxury Century Star.