Cruises

Grand Central Europe & Zurich (2024)

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Zurich to Vienna | 17 Days

Date Range: Jul 2024 - Oct 2024

Ships : River Princess

Countries: Central Europe

Cruise between the picturesque city of Basel and imperial Vienna. Along the way, you’ll cruise through 3 different rivers—the Rhine, Main and Danube—to visit Switzerland, France, Germany and Austria. And as a pre- or post-cruise highlight, you’ll spend two nights at the Dolder Grand Hotel in the lakeside city of Zurich expanding our journey on land to embrace Swiss cultural highlights in the country’s largest city.

Cruise between the picturesque city of Basel and imperial Vienna. Along the way, you’ll cruise through 3 different rivers—the Rhine, Main and Danube—to visit Switzerland, France, Germany and Austria. And as a pre- or post-cruise highlight, you’ll spend two nights at the Dolder Grand Hotel in the lakeside city of Zurich expanding our journey on land to embrace Swiss cultural highlights in the country’s largest city.

Cruise between the picturesque city of Basel and imperial Vienna. Along the way, you’ll cruise through 3 different rivers—the Rhine, Main and Danube—to visit Switzerland, France, Germany and Austria. You’ll visit the resort town of Baden-Baden and climb to the treetops of Bamberg, wander the palatial residences of historic rulers and venture into the Bavarian forest. Taste Rheingau wines and German beers at the source. Wonder at the Wachau Valley’s riverscapes and the equally incredible agricultural products grown there.


And as a pre- or post-cruise highlight, you’ll spend two nights at the Dolder Grand Hotel in the lakeside city of Zurich expanding our journey on land to embrace Swiss cultural highlights in the country’s largest city. This adventure is full of memorable moments from first to last.


Grand Central Europe is a combination of Zurich & the Rhine River Valley and Authentic Danube.

Zurich to Vienna | 17 Days
Note: For 2023 and 2024 departures that embark in Basel, the ship will dock outside of Basel in the port of Breisach. The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise. This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your final day-to-day schedule will be provided onboard on the first day of your cruise.

Program offerings are subject to change.
DAY 1 Zurich
Arrive at Zurich Airport. If your cruise includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to The Dolder Grand Hotel. Perched like a castle on the hill above Zurich, this hotel offers a quiet, relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy its many bars and dining venues, excellent spa or nature trails. And with its own funicular, private cars and shuttle services, it’s as convenient a location for exploration as any in the city center.
DAY 2 Zurich
As Switzerland’s financial capital, Zurich boasts the highest population in the country. Yet, while it rivals any other European metropolis, the city also has a unique charm. Historic and modern architecture mingle in the streets, all set on the shores of an expansive lake against a background of snow-capped alps.

Featured Excursion:

Masterpiece Collection:
DAY 3 Zurich, Basel (Embark)
Check out of your hotel and enjoy some free time in Zurich before it is time to transfer to the ship. After settling in onboard, you’ll have the rest of the day at leisure in Basel.
In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 4 Breisach
Breisach is often referred to as the gateway to the Black Forest, which you will venture into on today's excursion.

Featured Excursion:
DAY 5 Strasbourg (Baden-Baden)
Strasbourg is invariably described as quaint, with its cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, giant stork nests and impossible-to-resist pastry shops. While we’re docked here today, make sure to get out and explore this charming town—but you won’t want to miss our day trip to the blissful spa town of Baden-Baden.

Other Excursions:

Join a local guide for a walking tour of enchanting Baden-Baden, which will bring you past two thermal baths and the city’s famous Casino. Gain further appreciation for the Romans and their love of natural spa facilities as you pass by the Fettquelle, a public thermal fountain where it is believed that the water is health-promoting. After learning about the curative powers of Baden-Baden’s water sources, explore the Casino Baden-Baden, and let its ambiance, architecture, and atmosphere enthrall you. You’ll enjoy a tour of this grandiose building, complete with a walk through the gambling halls, which offer a look at the casino’s fascinating history dating back to 1855 and Dostoevsky’s novel “The Gambler”—written in Baden-Baden and based on this casino.

Note: Lunch will be on your own today.

Baden-Baden City Tour with Casino
or

Controlled over the centuries by either France or Germany, Strasbourg—cross-cultural and bilingual—offers a delightful combination of old and new, as well as French and German characteristics. You'll see the city's highlights on a panoramic drive before disembarking the coach for a walking tour through the towns famously idyllic streets with your local guide.

Strasbourg Panoramic Tour with Cathedral and Old Town Walk
DAY 6 Mainz, Offenbach
Your day in Mainz includes a visit to one of Germany's most stunning locales: Heidelberg.

Featured Excursion:
DAY 7 Miltenberg
The perfect German town calls for a day full of quintessential German experiences. Resting on the left bank of the Main, Miltenberg is classically quaint with its charming squares, farmland, biking and pedestrian paths, impressive castles, and one of Germany’s oldest inns.

Featured Excursion:
DAY 8 Würzburg
The opulent Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a true sense of the region’s history through the European Renaissance. It even contains the world’s largest ceiling fresco by Tiepolo. Visit the Residence and its carefully restored gardens or get to know the Würzburg wine scene with a tasting.

Other Excursions:

This incredibly lavish 18th-century palace was created under the auspices of two Schönborn prince-bishops, Lothar Franz and Friedrich Carl, who brought enormous knowledge and passion, as well as a budget for the best, to the project. Over the course of 60 years, they fostered the creation of a 300-room palace that contains jaw-dropping baroque art. The magnificent grand staircase boasts the world’s largest ceiling fresco, painted by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. Portions of the building were damaged by Allied bombing in 1945, but, fortunately, most of the historic furnishings had been stored off-site and key rooms were unharmed, so you can see the original—and matchless—artwork, gilding and statuary. Check out both the spectacular Hall of Mirrors and the imposing Imperial Hall, which boasts a large oval dome and 20 half-columns. Even the gardens have been restored, right down to the topiary fruit trees in the kitchen garden, which are re-creations of the trees grown there in the 18th century.

Note: Visitors may not take photos or videos or carry backpacks inside the Würzburg Residence.

Würzburg Residence Visit with Court Gardens
or

In the charming town of Eibelstadt, within the Würzburg district, you’ll find Weinforum Franken. This cozy hotel and restaurant in Franconian wine country is a haven for wine lovers, and their sommelier is passionate about sourcing the best wines in the region for their collection. Today, we’ll enjoy an atmospheric tasting in their 15th-century cellar, trying 3 different wines produced by fantastic local estates.

Würzburg Wine Cellar
DAY 9 Bamberg
Bamberg in its entirety is not only described as beautiful but has often been regarded as one of Germany’s most attractive settlements, with its picturesque architecture, intersecting canals and rivers, and charming stores and restaurants, all framed by rolling hills.

Other Excursions:

Now a pleasant city with a lively student population and a world-famous symphony orchestra, Bamberg was the center of economic and political life for a huge swath of Central Europe in the Middle Ages. Spared WWII bombing, the entire heart of historic Bamberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval layout of the city remains intact, along with 2,000 historic buildings; it is yours to explore today.

In the splendid late-Romanesque Imperial Cathedral you will find the only papal tomb in Germany, that of Pope Clement II (who was the bishop of Bamberg before he became pope), as well as the tomb of Emperor Henry II (who established the bishopric). Cross the cobblestone footbridge to the Old Town Hall, which is adorned with colorful frescoes, and ramble along the narrow lanes lined with picturesque half-timbered houses.

Bamberg Walking Tour
or

Venture into the Steigerwald Nature Park to experience the forest from a completely different perspective—high up in the treetops. A wooden pathway winds around the trees, then spirals upwards to culminate in a 41-meter tower.

Along the way you’ll pass a deer park, live camera feeds into birds’ nests, learning stations, and a petting zoo. When you reach the top of the walkway, you’ll find yourself high above the forest, enjoying spectacular views of the countryside.

Let’s Go: Treetop Hike

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 10 Nuremberg
Other passengers are heading home today, but you are only halfway through your marvelous holiday. Enjoy a day of leisure exploring beautiful and historic Nuremberg.
DAY 11 Nuremberg
The archetypal medieval German city, Nuremberg was once the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire, housing many German kings in the Kaiserburg castle complex. Later, this city became the epicenter of the Nazi party. When the end of WWII left Nuremberg almost completely leveled, it was chosen to be the site of the war crimes tribunal—the Nuremberg Trials. Now, most of the city has been restored, including the old castle.

Generations Excursion:
  • Start with a delicious bit of gingerbread as you walk with your guide around the city center. After a little while, you’ll find yourself at a station, where you’ll board a choo choo train for a sightseeing ride around Nuremberg. After all that exploring, it’ll be time for another snack, so follow your guide to a Bratwurst shop for a taste of the city’s famous treat: bread rolls stuffed with Nuremberg sausages.

    The Nuremberg Express
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.

Other Excursions:

Set out on a panoramic drive towards Nuremberg’s Old Town. Along the way, look out the window to catch a glimpse of several interesting sites, including the former SS Barracks, Nuremberg’s train station, and the old city walls. You’ll get off the bus near the castle for a walking tour of the historic neighborhood surrounding it, then descend underground to find a secret Nazi art bunker hidden beneath the castle.

In the medieval period, a network of tunnels was built under the castle hill, and parts of these tunnels were later turned into an artifact preservation bunker during World War II. The Nazis stored several highly valuable and symbolic items here to keep them safe from Allied air raids, including the imperial regalia of the Holy Roman Empire, looted artifacts from occupied nations, and paintings by Albrecht Dürer, a German painter whose home you’ll have passed on your tour through the Old Town.

Please note: you may find it beneficial to bring a warm jacket with you on this tour, as the art bunker naturally sits at around 55°C.

Nuremberg City Walk & Art Bunker Visit
or

Hitler considered Nuremberg the perfect expression of German culture (partly because of its significance in the Holy Roman Empire, which he called the First Reich), and so beginning in 1927, he chose to hold his massive rallies in the city. By 1933, his favorite architect, Albert Speer, had designed the vast Nazi Party Rally Grounds, where thousands upon thousands of Nazi troops saluted Hitler. (Leni Riefenstahl captured these events in her famous propaganda film Triumph of the Will.) Not all of Speer’s plans were executed, and some of his grandiose structures were bombed out of existence, but the remainder stand as vivid testimony to Hitler’s megalomania. A four-square-mile (10-square-kilometer) complex known as Zeppelin Fields contains parade grounds and a huge grandstand, the excavation site where a stadium for 400,000 people was begun—the hole is now filled with water—and the half-finished Congress Hall.

NOTE: The permanent exhibition at the Documentation Center will be closed until the fall of 2023. In its place, a special temporary exhibition may be available.

Nuremberg City Tour with WWII Rally Grounds and Documentation Center Visits

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 12 Regensburg
The nearly 2,000-year-old history of Regensburg begins with a Roman fort in 90 AD, from which Regensburg grew into the large and prosperous trade center that it became in the last few centuries of the Medieval period. This long history has been excellently preserved through Regensburg’s iconic architecture—particularly its many Gothic and Romanesque churches and Patrician houses.

Featured Excursion:

Masterpiece Collection:

Generations Excursion:
  • A short drive outside of Regensburg, a giant wooden ball sits right on the shores of a beautifully blue Bavarian lake. Made up of twisting walkable paths, this “adventure ball” is the largest of its kind in the whole world. Explore this fun site with an expert guide, walk to the top of the ball for amazing views, glide back down to the bottom via the sphere’s “mega slide,” and take a short hike around the lake to learn about local plants and animals. With some free time at the end, you can stop for refreshments at the on-site restaurant, attempt the climbing wall, or test your skills at the balancing path.

    The Adventure Ball
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.

Other Excursions:

People have been describing Regensburg as “old and new” for a thousand years. A single structure perfectly illustrates this: Porta Praetoria, the gate built by the Romans during Marcus Aurelius’ reign. The gate and adjacent watchtower have been incorporated into a much newer building, but the plaster has been removed to reveal the ancient stones laid so long ago.

As you walk through the cobbled lanes of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, the city’s 2,000-year history is similarly revealed: the Stone Bridge that made Regensburg a 12th-century trading powerhouse, the Gothic town hall where the Imperial Diet met for three centuries, the 13th-century fortified patrician houses, and the spectacular Cathedral of St. Peter, whose magnificent 14th-century stained-glass windows alone are worth your walk.

You’ll have free time to explore on your own. It’s very hard to get lost in Regensburg because the spires of the cathedral are visible all over town, so don’t hesitate to roam. The historic quarter not only boasts almost a thousand beautiful old buildings, but also many cozy pubs and some great shopping. The ship is docked conveniently close, so it’s easy to drop your treasures off and go back for more.

Regensburg Walking Tour
or

Hops vines grow up their strings in a field tower almost twice a person’s height. They’re grown for their flowers, which add a distinctive flavor to beer—but the fields they grow in add a distinctive flavor to the hops. You could call it terroir for beer, and you can delve into hops cultivation and hops brewing today. Travel through Bavaria’s Holledau region, the largest hops growing district in the world, and meet an enthusiastic ambassador of hops growing and beer making. She will give you a quick and lively history of hops in Germany—including Bavaria’s law governing the making of beer, which has specified since 1560 that the only ingredients permitted in beer are water, barley, and hops—and lead you on a tour through the growing fields her family owns, followed by a craft beer tasting in the cozy barn turned beer hall. It’s a delicious way to get to know a fascinating aspect of the international farm-to-table movement.

“From Hops Field to Beer Stein” Farm Visit
DAY 13 Straubing, Deggendorf, Vilshofen
Nestled between Regensburg and Passau sits a town surrounded by the foothills of the Bavarian Forest, Deggendorf. Journey deep into the alluring Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany’s first national park, and discover outdoor leisure at its best.

Featured Excursion:

Generations Excursion:
  • Enter the Bavarian Forest, Germany’s first and largest national park, to discover an abundant wilderness covered in diverse flora and fauna.

    You’ll explore the forest in one of two ways today. You can choose to join a family host to see how the local style of glassware is crafted. Or for those looking for a more active outing, join a family host on a visit to a former silver mine. Ride up to the mine by cable car, get your helmet, and dive deep into the mountain.

    Into The Woods
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.
DAY 14 Vilshofen, Passau
A new day brings new experiences in the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers join together, at one time bringing an influx of wealth and culture into the region.

Featured Excursions:

Generations Excursions:
  • Head out on a cycling excursion on the famous Danube Bike Trail, venturing through Passau, Engelhartszell, and other fascinating locales. This flat pathway hugs the river and offers spectacular views of Germany’s lush scenery. The Danube Bike Trail is one of Europe's largest, following stretches of the Danube in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary.

    Pedal Passau
  • Enjoy an afternoon on the water with the chance to try out rowing, canoeing, or paddle-boarding on the Ilz River, nicknamed the “Black Pearl,” due to the moors and bogs at its river basin that give the water a mesmerizing black color. The Ilz is a paradise for kayakers and paddle boarders alike and allows people of all experience levels to have fun here.

    Ilz River Splash
  • Join a local geocaching guide on a unique discovery of Passau’s historical and hidden spots. Pay close attention to clues and hints as you make your way from one station to the next, uncovering important historical information about your current location. Each station also includes a special activity for kids.

    Treasure Hunt Trek
  • These excursions are only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.
DAY 15 Weissenkirchen, Melk
Start your day in the heart of the Danube’s Wachau Valley, strolling through Weissenkirchen’s idyllic wine village while sampling mouth watering apricot treats. Named for its white church that dominates the landscape, the city is flanked by vineyard-lined hills, historic houses, and beautiful courtyards. The Melk Abbey is a baroque monastery and sits atop a rocky formation overlooking the Danube.

Featured Excursion:

Generations Excursion:
  • Weissenkirchen was once the hub of the Wachau Valley, and the main hub of Weissenkirchen was its historic church—in fact, the town’s name translates to “white church.” You’ll be taken on a rare tour of the church today, during which you’ll climb up the tower to stand under the bells, peek into the room where they used to hide their treasure, and more.

    Secrets of Weissenkirchen
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.

Other Excursions:

The Babenbergs, a great medieval ducal family that controlled a wide swath of Austria before yielding to the Habsburgs, were the first to erect a castle on the hill above Melk, which they subsequently gave to Benedictine monks. These monks, some 900 years ago, turned it into a fortified abbey—and the greatest center of learning in Central Europe. Their library was celebrated far and wide (and still is; Umberto Eco paid tribute to it in his best-selling novel The Name of the Rose). Medieval monks there created more than 1,200 manuscripts, sometimes spending an entire lifetime hand-lettering a single volume. Today the library contains some 100,000 volumes, among them more than 80,000 works printed before 1800. This beautiful complex, completely redone in the early 18th century, is a wonderful example of baroque art and architecture, and the views from its terrace are spectacular. As you walk through the abbey’s Marble Hall with your guide, look up at the ceiling fresco painted by Paul Troger: Those classical gods and goddesses represent Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI, allegorically bringing his people from dark to light and demonstrating the link he claimed to the original Roman Empire.

After your tour of the abbey, you’ll have time to explore Melk on your own, or you can take the motorcoach back to the ship.

Melk Abbey with Library Visit
or

You’ve seen the apricot orchards along the river banks; now taste the fruit. Begin with an easy walk to Weissenkirchen, which may be the prettiest village in the Wachau—and that’s saying quite a bit. Named for its famous white church, Weissenkirchen is simply picture-perfect. Its centuries-old wine estates, houses with colorful flower boxes, lovely gardens, and apricot orchards make for a wonderfully idyllic setting between the river and the mountains. Later, sample some Wachau wines at a local winery where your guide will share various details about why these extraordinary wines are so unique.

Weissenkirchen Village Walk with Wine Tasting
DAY 16 Vienna
On this day, explore the “City of Waltzes” and dive into its vast artistic legacy. The city is known for its imperial palaces, famous residents, and expansive art collections.

Featured Excursion:

Masterpiece Collection:

Generations Excursions:
  • Watch as history comes alive on this exploration of the city at the interactive multimedia venue Time Travel Vienna. Discover Vienna’s eventful history in a unique way; Time Travel Vienna features a 5D cinema, animatronic wax figures, rides, and multimedia shows equipped with extraordinary sound and light effects. After, you’ll embark on a humorous and expertly-led walk around the city that will bring you to the historic St. Stephen's Cathedral.

    Magical History Tour
  • Learn more about the everyday life of the imperial family at the “Schloss Schönbrunn Experience” Children’s Museum. Dress up as a prince or princess, learn the secret language of fans, play with imperial toys, or set the table for an imperial dinner. Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, is a stunning 1,441 room Baroque palace that’s revered as one of the most important architectural and historical monuments in the country. Marvel at its over 300 years of history that reflect the changing tastes of former monarchs and wander through its vast gardens.

    Schönbrunn Royal Experience
  • These excursions are only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 17 Vienna (Disembark)
Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Vienna International Airport for your flight home.
Vienna to Zurich | 17 Days
Note: For 2023 and 2024 departures that embark in Basel, the ship will dock outside of Basel in the port of Breisach. The itineraries presented are subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise. This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your final day-to-day schedule will be provided onboard on the first day of your cruise.

Program offerings are subject to change.
DAY 1 Vienna (Embark)
Transfer from Vienna International Airport to your ship. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
DAY 2 Vienna
On this day, explore the “City of Waltzes” and dive into its vast artistic legacy. The city is known for its imperial palaces, famous residents, and expansive art collections.

Featured Excursion:

Masterpiece Collection:

Generations Excursions:
  • Watch as history comes alive on this exploration of the city at the interactive multimedia venue Time Travel Vienna. Discover Vienna’s eventful history in a unique way; Time Travel Vienna features a 5D cinema, animatronic wax figures, rides, and multimedia shows equipped with extraordinary sound and light effects. After, you’ll embark on a humorous and expertly-led walk around the city that will bring you to the historic St. Stephen's Cathedral.

    Magical History Tour
  • Learn more about the everyday life of the imperial family at the “Schloss Schönbrunn Experience” Children’s Museum. Dress up as a prince or princess, learn the secret language of fans, play with imperial toys, or set the table for an imperial dinner. Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg rulers, is a stunning 1,441 room Baroque palace that’s revered as one of the most important architectural and historical monuments in the country. Marvel at its over 300 years of history that reflect the changing tastes of former monarchs and wander through its vast gardens.

    Schönbrunn Royal Experience
  • These excursions are only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.
DAY 3 Weissenkirchen, Melk
Start your day in the heart of the Danube’s Wachau Valley, strolling through Weissenkirchen’s idyllic wine village while sampling mouth watering apricot treats. Named for its white church that dominates the landscape, the city is flanked by vineyard-lined hills, historic houses, and beautiful courtyards. The Melk Abbey is a baroque monastery and sits atop a rocky formation overlooking the Danube.

Featured Excursion:

Generations Excursion:
  • Weissenkirchen was once the hub of the Wachau Valley, and the main hub of Weissenkirchen was its historic church—in fact, the town’s name translates to “white church.” You’ll be taken on a rare tour of the church today, during which you’ll climb up the tower to stand under the bells, peek into the room where they used to hide their treasure, and more.

    Secrets of Weissenkirchen
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.

Other Excursions:

The Babenbergs, a great medieval ducal family that controlled a wide swath of Austria before yielding to the Habsburgs, were the first to erect a castle on the hill above Melk, which they subsequently gave to Benedictine monks. These monks, some 900 years ago, turned it into a fortified abbey—and the greatest center of learning in Central Europe. Their library was celebrated far and wide (and still is; Umberto Eco paid tribute to it in his best-selling novel The Name of the Rose). Medieval monks there created more than 1,200 manuscripts, sometimes spending an entire lifetime hand-lettering a single volume. Today the library contains some 100,000 volumes, among them more than 80,000 works printed before 1800. This beautiful complex, completely redone in the early 18th century, is a wonderful example of baroque art and architecture, and the views from its terrace are spectacular. As you walk through the abbey’s Marble Hall with your guide, look up at the ceiling fresco painted by Paul Troger: Those classical gods and goddesses represent Holy Roman Emperor Charles VI, allegorically bringing his people from dark to light and demonstrating the link he claimed to the original Roman Empire.

After your tour of the abbey, you’ll have time to explore Melk on your own, or you can take the motorcoach back to the ship.

Melk Abbey with Library Visit
or

You’ve seen the apricot orchards along the river banks; now taste the fruit. Begin with an easy walk to Weissenkirchen, which may be the prettiest village in the Wachau—and that’s saying quite a bit. Named for its famous white church, Weissenkirchen is simply picture-perfect. Its centuries-old wine estates, houses with colorful flower boxes, lovely gardens, and apricot orchards make for a wonderfully idyllic setting between the river and the mountains. Later, sample some Wachau wines at a local winery where your guide will share various details about why these extraordinary wines are so unique.

Weissenkirchen Village Walk with Wine Tasting

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 4 Engelhartszell, Passau, Vilshofen
A new day brings new experiences in the forest-lined district of Engelhartszell. Experience Germany’s great outdoors by biking along the Danube River. Arrive in the afternoon at the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers join together, at one time bringing an influx of wealth and culture into the region.

Featured Excursions:

Generations Excursions:
  • Head out on a cycling excursion on the famous Danube Bike Trail, venturing through Passau, Engelhartszell, and other fascinating locales. This flat pathway hugs the river and offers spectacular views of Germany’s lush scenery. The Danube Bike Trail is one of Europe's largest, following stretches of the Danube in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary.

    Pedal Passau
  • Enjoy an afternoon on the water with the chance to try out rowing, canoeing, or paddle-boarding on the Ilz River, nicknamed the “Black Pearl,” due to the moors and bogs at its river basin that give the water a mesmerizing black color. The Ilz is a paradise for kayakers and paddle boarders alike and allows people of all experience levels to have fun here.

    Ilz River Splash
  • Join a local geocaching guide on a unique discovery of Passau’s historical and hidden spots. Pay close attention to clues and hints as you make your way from one station to the next, uncovering important historical information about your current location. Each station also includes a special activity for kids.

    Treasure Hunt Trek
  • These excursions are only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.
DAY 5 Deggendorf, Straubing
Nestled between Regensburg and Passau sits a town surrounded by the foothills of the Bavarian Forest, Deggendorf. Journey deep into the alluring Bavarian Forest National Park, Germany’s first national park, and discover outdoor leisure at its best.

Featured Excursions:

Generations Excursion:
  • Enter the Bavarian Forest, Germany’s first and largest national park, to discover an abundant wilderness covered in diverse flora and fauna.

    You’ll explore the forest in one of two ways today. You can choose to join a family host to see how the local style of glassware is crafted. Or for those looking for a more active outing, join a family host on a visit to a former silver mine. Ride up to the mine by cable car, get your helmet, and dive deep into the mountain.

    Into The Woods
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.
DAY 6 Regensburg
The nearly 2,000-year-old history of Regensburg begins with a Roman fort in 90 AD, from which Regensburg grew into the large and prosperous trade center that it became in the last few centuries of the Medieval period. This long history has been excellently preserved through Regensburg’s iconic architecture—particularly its many Gothic and Romanesque churches and Patrician houses.

Generations Excursion:
  • A short drive outside of Regensburg, a giant wooden ball sits right on the shores of a beautifully blue Bavarian lake. Made up of twisting walkable paths, this “adventure ball” is the largest of its kind in the whole world. Explore this fun site with an expert guide, walk to the top of the ball for amazing views, glide back down to the bottom via the sphere’s “mega slide,” and take a short hike around the lake to learn about local plants and animals. With some free time at the end, you can stop for refreshments at the on-site restaurant, attempt the climbing wall, or test your skills at the balancing path.

    The Adventure Ball
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.

Other Excursions:

People have been describing Regensburg as “old and new” for a thousand years. A single structure perfectly illustrates this: Porta Praetoria, the gate built by the Romans during Marcus Aurelius’ reign. The gate and adjacent watchtower have been incorporated into a much newer building, but the plaster has been removed to reveal the ancient stones laid so long ago.

As you walk through the cobbled lanes of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, the city’s 2,000-year history is similarly revealed: the Stone Bridge that made Regensburg a 12th-century trading powerhouse, the Gothic town hall where the Imperial Diet met for three centuries, the 13th-century fortified patrician houses, and the spectacular Cathedral of St. Peter, whose magnificent 14th-century stained-glass windows alone are worth your walk.

You’ll have free time to explore on your own. It’s very hard to get lost in Regensburg because the spires of the cathedral are visible all over town, so don’t hesitate to roam. The historic quarter not only boasts almost a thousand beautiful old buildings, but also many cozy pubs and some great shopping. The ship is docked conveniently close, so it’s easy to drop your treasures off and go back for more.

Regensburg Walking Tour
or

Hops vines grow up their strings in a field tower almost twice a person’s height. They’re grown for their flowers, which add a distinctive flavor to beer—but the fields they grow in add a distinctive flavor to the hops. You could call it terroir for beer, and you can delve into hops cultivation and hops brewing today. Travel through Bavaria’s Holledau region, the largest hops growing district in the world, and meet an enthusiastic ambassador of hops growing and beer making. She will give you a quick and lively history of hops in Germany—including Bavaria’s law governing the making of beer, which has specified since 1560 that the only ingredients permitted in beer are water, barley, and hops—and lead you on a tour through the growing fields her family owns, followed by a craft beer tasting in the cozy barn turned beer hall. It’s a delicious way to get to know a fascinating aspect of the international farm-to-table movement.

“From Hops Field to Beer Stein” Farm Visit
DAY 7 Nuremberg
The archetypal medieval German city, Nuremberg was once the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire, housing many German kings in the Kaiserburg castle complex. Later, this city became the epicenter of the Nazi party. When the end of WWII left Nuremberg almost completely leveled, it was chosen to be the site of the war crimes tribunal—the Nuremberg Trials. Now, most of the city has been restored, including the old castle.

Generations Excursion:
  • Start with a delicious bit of gingerbread as you walk with your guide around the city center. After a little while, you’ll find yourself at a station, where you’ll board a choo choo train for a sightseeing ride around Nuremberg. After all that exploring, it’ll be time for another snack, so follow your guide to a Bratwurst shop for a taste of the city’s famous treat: bread rolls stuffed with Nuremberg sausages.

    The Nuremberg Express
  • This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Generations program.

Other Excursions:

Set out on a panoramic drive towards Nuremberg’s Old Town. Along the way, look out the window to catch a glimpse of several interesting sites, including the former SS Barracks, Nuremberg’s train station, and the old city walls. You’ll get off the bus near the castle for a walking tour of the historic neighborhood surrounding it, then descend underground to find a secret Nazi art bunker hidden beneath the castle.

In the medieval period, a network of tunnels was built under the castle hill, and parts of these tunnels were later turned into an artifact preservation bunker during World War II. The Nazis stored several highly valuable and symbolic items here to keep them safe from Allied air raids, including the imperial regalia of the Holy Roman Empire, looted artifacts from occupied nations, and paintings by Albrecht Dürer, a German painter whose home you’ll have passed on your tour through the Old Town.

Please note: you may find it beneficial to bring a warm jacket with you on this tour, as the art bunker naturally sits at around 55°C.

Nuremberg City Walk & Art Bunker Visit
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Hitler considered Nuremberg the perfect expression of German culture (partly because of its significance in the Holy Roman Empire, which he called the First Reich), and so beginning in 1927, he chose to hold his massive rallies in the city. By 1933, his favorite architect, Albert Speer, had designed the vast Nazi Party Rally Grounds, where thousands upon thousands of Nazi troops saluted Hitler. (Leni Riefenstahl captured these events in her famous propaganda film Triumph of the Will.) Not all of Speer’s plans were executed, and some of his grandiose structures were bombed out of existence, but the remainder stand as vivid testimony to Hitler’s megalomania. A four-square-mile (10-square-kilometer) complex known as Zeppelin Fields contains parade grounds and a huge grandstand, the excavation site where a stadium for 400,000 people was begun—the hole is now filled with water—and the half-finished Congress Hall.

NOTE: The permanent exhibition at the Documentation Center will be closed until the fall of 2023. In its place, a special temporary exhibition may be available.

Nuremberg City Tour with WWII Rally Grounds and Documentation Center Visits

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 8 Nuremberg
Other passengers are heading home today, but you are only halfway through your marvelous holiday. Enjoy a day of leisure exploring beautiful and historic Nuremberg.
DAY 9 Bamberg
Bamberg in its entirety is not only described as beautiful but has often been regarded as one of Germany’s most attractive settlements, with its picturesque architecture, intersecting canals and rivers, and charming stores and restaurants, all framed by rolling hills.

Masterpiece Collection:

Other Excursions:

Now a pleasant city with a lively student population and a world-famous symphony orchestra, Bamberg was the center of economic and political life for a huge swath of Central Europe in the Middle Ages. Spared WWII bombing, the entire heart of historic Bamberg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The medieval layout of the city remains intact, along with 2,000 historic buildings; it is yours to explore today.

In the splendid late-Romanesque Imperial Cathedral you will find the only papal tomb in Germany, that of Pope Clement II (who was the bishop of Bamberg before he became pope), as well as the tomb of Emperor Henry II (who established the bishopric). Cross the cobblestone footbridge to the Old Town Hall, which is adorned with colorful frescoes, and ramble along the narrow lanes lined with picturesque half-timbered houses.

Bamberg Walking Tour
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Venture into the Steigerwald Nature Park to experience the forest from a completely different perspective—high up in the treetops. A wooden pathway winds around the trees, then spirals upwards to culminate in a 41-meter tower.

Along the way you’ll pass a deer park, live camera feeds into birds’ nests, learning stations, and a petting zoo. When you reach the top of the walkway, you’ll find yourself high above the forest, enjoying spectacular views of the countryside.

Let’s Go: Treetop Hike

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 10 Würzburg
The opulent Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a true sense of the region’s history through the European Renaissance. It even contains the world’s largest ceiling fresco by Tiepolo. Visit the Residence and its carefully restored gardens or get to know the Würzburg wine scene with a tasting.

Other Excursions:

This incredibly lavish 18th-century palace was created under the auspices of two Schönborn prince-bishops, Lothar Franz and Friedrich Carl, who brought enormous knowledge and passion, as well as a budget for the best, to the project. Over the course of 60 years, they fostered the creation of a 300-room palace that contains jaw-dropping baroque art. The magnificent grand staircase boasts the world’s largest ceiling fresco, painted by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo. Portions of the building were damaged by Allied bombing in 1945, but, fortunately, most of the historic furnishings had been stored off-site and key rooms were unharmed, so you can see the original—and matchless—artwork, gilding and statuary. Check out both the spectacular Hall of Mirrors and the imposing Imperial Hall, which boasts a large oval dome and 20 half-columns. Even the gardens have been restored, right down to the topiary fruit trees in the kitchen garden, which are re-creations of the trees grown there in the 18th century.

Note: Visitors may not take photos or videos or carry backpacks inside the Würzburg Residence.

Würzburg Residence Visit with Court Gardens
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In the charming town of Eibelstadt, within the Würzburg district, you’ll find Weinforum Franken. This cozy hotel and restaurant in Franconian wine country is a haven for wine lovers, and their sommelier is passionate about sourcing the best wines in the region for their collection. Today, we’ll enjoy an atmospheric tasting in their 15th-century cellar, trying 3 different wines produced by fantastic local estates.

Würzburg Wine Cellar
DAY 11 Miltenberg
The perfect German town calls for a day full of quintessential German experiences. Resting on the left bank of the Main, Miltenberg is classically quaint with its charming squares, farmland, biking and pedestrian paths, impressive castles, and one of Germany’s oldest inns.

Featured Excursion:
DAY 12 Mainz
Your day in Mainz includes a visit to one of Germany's most stunning locales: Heidelberg.

Featured Excursion:
DAY 13 Rastatt (Baden-Baden), Strasbourg
Strasbourg is invariably described as quaint, with its cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, giant stork nests and impossible-to-resist pastry shops. While we’re docked here today, make sure to get out and explore this charming town—but you won’t want to miss our day trip to the blissful spa town of Baden-Baden.

Other Excursions:

Controlled over the centuries by either France or Germany, Strasbourg—cross-cultural and bilingual—offers a delightful combination of old and new, as well as French and German characteristics. You'll see the city's highlights on a panoramic drive before disembarking the coach for a walking tour through the towns famously idyllic streets with your local guide.

Note: Lunch will be on your own today.

Strasbourg Panoramic Tour with Cathedral and Old Town Walk
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Join a local guide for a walking tour of enchanting Baden-Baden, which will bring you past two thermal baths and the city’s famous Casino. Gain further appreciation for the Romans and their love of natural spa facilities as you pass by the Fettquelle, a public thermal fountain where it is believed that the water is health-promoting. After learning about the curative powers of Baden-Baden’s water sources, explore the Casino Baden-Baden, and let its ambiance, architecture, and atmosphere enthrall you. You’ll enjoy a tour of this grandiose building, complete with a walk through the gambling halls, which offer a look at the casino’s fascinating history dating back to 1855 and Dostoevsky’s novel “The Gambler”—written in Baden-Baden and based on this casino.

Note: Lunch will be on your own today.

Baden-Baden City Tour with Casino

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
DAY 14 Breisach
Breisach is often referred to as the gateway to the Black Forest, which you will venture into on today's excursion.

Featured Excursion:
DAY 15 Basel (Disembark), Zurich
Disembark from the ship, and transfer to the city of Zurich. As Switzerland’s financial capital, Zurich boasts the highest population in the country. Yet, while it rivals any other European metropolis, the city also has a unique charm. Historic and modern architecture mingle in the streets, all set on the shores of an expansive lake against a background of snow-capped alps. After today’s excursion transfer to The Dolder Grand Hotel.

Featured Excursion:

Masterpiece Collection:
DAY 16 Zurich
Enjoy a day at leisure at The Dolder Grand Hotel. Perched like a castle on the hill above Zurich, this hotel offers a quiet, relaxed atmosphere in which to enjoy its many bars and dining venues, excellent spa, or nature trails. And with its own funicular, private cars, and shuttle services, it’s as convenient a location for exploration as any in the city center.
DAY 17 Zurich (Depart)
Check out of your hotel and begin your journey home. If your cruise package includes a group purchase or transfer, you will be transferred to Zurich Airport for your flight home.
Cruise Departure Double Occupancy Pricing Ship
Wed, 10 Jul 2024
(Zurich to Vienna)
$6,999.00 River Princess
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Mon, 22 Jul 2024
(Zurich to Vienna)
$0.00 River Princess
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Wed, 21 Aug 2024
(Zurich to Vienna)
$0.00 River Princess
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Mon, 02 Sep 2024
(Zurich to Vienna)
$0.00 River Princess
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Wed, 02 Oct 2024
(Zurich to Vienna)
$0.00 River Princess
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  • All fares are per guest in US Dollars based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted.
  • Fares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice.
  • Availability of all stateroom categories cannot be guaranteed.
  • Single Supplement applies for single accommodation.
  • Itineraries, hotels, and vessels may change, and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to water level fluctuations and other uncontrollable factors.
  • The order of sightseeing and docking ports are subject to change according to port authority assignments.
  • Prices exclude additional port charges of $440 per person

Dining

  • All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
  • 2 Welcome and 2 Farewell Gala Dinners
  • Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water

Dining

Excursions

  • 13 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
  • A variety of onshore tours, including guided “Let's Go” and “Village Day” programs
  • State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
  • Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks

Excursions

Accommodations

  • 14-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the regal River Princess
  • 2 nights in Zurich at The Dolder Grand Hotel (or similar)
  • Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
  • Free Internet and Wi-Fi access

Accommodations

Experiences

  • 4 countries: Germany, France, Switzerland and Austria
  • Multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise/Tour Manager
  • Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
  • Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
  • Captivating onboard local entertainment

Experiences