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Danube Explorer & Highlights of Budapest on Emerald Star

From Munich, Germany to Budapest, Hungary
Length: 10 Days - Departs: Fri, Jul 10, 2026
Operator
Departure
Jul 10, 2026
Arrival
Jul 19, 2026

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All the River Operators Offers & More:

LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON EMERALD CRUISES
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2-For-1 Fares + Free Air + Emerald Exclusive Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3444
Promotion Image

2-For-1 Fares + Free Air + Emerald Exclusive Savings

2-For-1 Fares + Free Air + Emerald Exclusive Savings

Promotion Details
Enjoy 2-for-1 fares on select Emerald River Cruises. As an added benefit, Emerald is including a Complimentary Flexible Booking Plan to give you extra peace of mind. This offer can be combined with free airfare when you pay in full and exclusive Emerald savings of up to $1,000 per suite on select departures. Plus as always receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. Not all sailings apply; contact your travel consultant for applicable departures.
Must Book By Sun, Jul 06, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new bookings only made between April 1 - July 6, 2025 on 2025 - 2026 Emerald River Cruise departures.

2 for 1 Fares: 2 for 1 Fares are displayed as a per person rate in a double occupancy cabin. Fares are based on full fare pricing and may not have resulted in a sale. Offer applies to cruise pricing only; does not apply on land extensions, air, or any other add-ons.

Emerald Exclusive Bonus Savings: Bonus savings of up to $1,000 per suite ($500pp) are available on select departures. Savings vary by departure. Combinable with 2 for 1 Fares, pay in full offers, non-refundable savings, and are capacity controlled. Deposit due at time of booking. Guests cannot use Flexible Booking Plan or Penalty Relief Program to move or cancel/rebook to take advantage of this offer.

Free air when you pay in full: Free air offers available when you pay in full based on suite category. Free premium economy air is available on S, RA, and SA suite categories with a max value of $2,500pp. For Southeast Asia, free premium economy is available for the S and SA categories with a max value of $4,000pp. Free economy air is available on other cabin categories with a max value of $1,500pp. Air offers available when you pay in full 10 months prior to departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers, or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. All flights will be booked on Emerald Cruises choice of airline and routing and are subject to availability. Savings options are available in lieu of airfare with same payment terms. For S, RA, and SA suites receive $1,500pp savings ($3,000 per suite) when you pay in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure; whichever is soonest. Other cabin categories receive $1,000pp savings ($2,000 per suite).

Non-Refundable Savings: Bonus savings of up to $300pp on select departures when you select non-refundable payment terms. When booking, please reference code NONREF. Full payment must be received within 48 hours of booking to receive these offers. Once booked, fare is 100% non-refundable however is combinable with the Flexible Booking Plan which allows funds to be moved to a new sailing once in circumstance that your plans have changed. Savings vary by departure. Combinable with 2 for 1 Fares, Emerald Exclusive savings, Flexible Booking Plan and Pay in Full offers; not combinable with Penalty Relief Program or any other offers.

Single Supplement: Free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment required. Single supplement is applied to the 2 for 1 Fares; single guest pays one guest fare. Free single supplement is not combinable with any other offers. Other dates may have a 45% single supplement; can be converted to a 25% supplement when paid in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure, whichever is soonest. Single supplement offers not applicable on S, RA, or SA categories. Not combinable with any other offers. Offer is capacity controlled.

Complimentary Flexible Booking Plan: We understand you may need to adjust your plans, so we’re offering the flexibility to change your travel arrangements or re-book for a more suitable time if needed. Our Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date, or cancel your journey, until 90 days prior to departure, less third-party fees. We will provide you with a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, which is valid for 24 months. Offer is valued at $125pp. No substitutions; no cash value.

All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled, or withdrawn at any time without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. Port charges are included in the price shown. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please visit emerald-cruises.com or contact your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C. For complete terms and conditions visit emeraldcruises.com.

Exclusive Rates on select Emerald River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3271
Promotion Image

Exclusive Rates on select Emerald River Cruises

Exclusive Rates on select Emerald River Cruises

Promotion Details
Book during this exclusive river cruise sale and receive exclusive rates on select 2025 and 2026 sailings. Plus as always receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. Contact your travel consultant to unlock your special rate.
Must Book By Sun, May 11, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Friends & Family Sale is available for new bookings only made between April 21 - May 11, 2025 on select 2025 & 2026 departures. Offer applies to cruise pricing only; does not apply on land extensions, air, or any other add-ons. Offer available when you pay in full 10 months prior to departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. 2025 select departures feature a complimentary upgrade to the D stateroom from E stateroom. Category SA excluded from offer. For 2025 & 2026 8+ day Emerald River departures not included in this sale, a bonus $150pp will be available, combinable with public offers. Available to guests in US & LATAM only. Guests cannot use Flexible Booking Plan or Platinum Protection Plan to move or cancel/rebook to take advantage of this offer. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled, or withdrawn at any time without notice. Scenic group reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change all fares and promotions at any time. For complete terms and conditions visit emeraldcruises.com.

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3528
Promotion Image

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Promotion Details
Take advantage of this exclusive offer and enjoy savings of $500 per couple ($250 per person) on 8+ day river cruises. Plus as always receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. (Blackout dates may apply; contact your Travel Consultant for more details)
Must Book By Wed, Apr 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Affordable Tours exclusive offer is available for new bookings only made between April 1-30 2025 on 8+ day itineraries across 2025 & 2026 river departures. Exclusive offers are combinable with 2-for-1 fares, pay-in-full offers, Emerald exclusive savings, Flash sales, Military discounts, Show Vouchers, Key Account offers, and Loyalty offers unless otherwise specified. Not combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Scenic group reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please call your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for legal residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C.

Up to $200 Group Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3278
Promotion Image

Up to $200 Group Savings

Up to $200 Group Savings

Promotion Details
Don't miss out on this incredible group savings to reserve your 2026 river cruise with Emerald Cruises. Reserve your 2026 river cruise and receive up to $200 per person group savings. Hurry as space is limited. Plus as always, receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a friends getaway, there's never been a better time to explore the world together. Contact your travel consultant for more details.
Must Book By Mon, Jun 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new group agreements between April 1, 2025 - June 30, 2025. Book a new group and receive Group Savings of $200 per person on 2026 river destinations on Emerald Cruises. Group savings are available for the life of the agreement based on availability and standard review dates. Combinable with current offers, Emerald Exclusive, loyalty savings, and future travel credits. Flash Sale offers are excluded. Group policies and benefits are subject to change at any time. Refer to Emerald Cruises Guide to Group Benefits for amenity selections. All offers are inventory-controlled and may be extended, canceled, or withdrawn without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any fares and promotions at any time. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C. For complete terms and conditions, visit emeraldcruises.com.

$300 Military Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3378
Promotion Image

$300 Military Savings

$300 Military Savings

Promotion Details
We are honored to recognize the selfless service of those who have served our nation. As a token of our appreciation, enjoy this exclusive savings of $300 per suite to all US military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Must Book By Wed, Dec 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

US military personnel, veterans, and their families take an additional $300 off per cabin on Emerald Cruises River with proof of current or past military status. This offer is combinable with 2-for-1 savings, pay-in-full offers, key account exclusives, Flash sales, Scenic Select, and Emerald Cruises. Combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. Taxes & port charges are included in the price. Offer available to residents of the 50 United States only. Offer ends December 31, 2025. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Visit scenicusa.com for complete terms and conditions.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    Munich – Passau 
    Fri, Jul 10, 2026

    Welcome to Munich, where you will be greeted by one of our Emerald Cruises representatives and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship in Passau. A warm welcome awaits you from the captain and crew, and this evening, you’ll join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

    Please book your flight to arrive into Munich prior to 02:00 PM.


    Meals: Dinner
  2. Day 2
    Passau
    Sat, Jul 11, 2026

    Today, you’ll sample homemade specialities and explore the customs and traditions of Bavarian agriculture during a visit to a local farm. Alternatively, you can set off on a hike, soaking up views such as the hilltop church of Mariahilf and the ancient St. Severin, dating back to the Ottonian dynasty.

    EmeraldPLUS
    Bavarian Countryside Experience

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Hike to Veste Oberhaus

    DiscoverMORE
    Bavaria Live (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  3. Day 3
    Linz – Ceský Krumlov
    Sun, Jul 12, 2026

    Crossing the border into the Czech Republic, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Ceský Krumlov. This quaint town has one of the best-preserved ancient centres in Europe, with more than three hundred protected medieval buildings and an iconic castle complex. Enjoy a guided tour of the area, including the 15th century St. Vitus’ Church and a series of delightful Gothic façades, each taking you back to the Middle Ages.

    EmeraldPLUS
    Guided tour of Ceský Krumlov

    DiscoverMORE
    Walking tour of Linz with a Linzer Torte tasting (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  4. Day 4
    Melk – Weissenkirchen
    Mon, Jul 13, 2026

    Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Danube River en-route to Melk. Here, you’ll explore the golden halls of Melk Abbey on today’s included tour.

    Afterwards, you’ll have the choice to sail through the idyllic Wachau Valley to Weissenkirchen, or if you’re feeling active cycle from Melk along the Danube River, traversing a route that offers a different perspective on the region’s viticulture.

    Included Excursion
    Tour of Melk Abbey

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour along the Danube

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided hike in Weissenkircken

    DiscoverMORE
    Wachau Experience (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    Vienna
    Tue, Jul 14, 2026

    Discover the classical charms of Vienna as we take you through the city. Uncover the cafés, artisan studios and baroque majesty of Vienna's imperial grandeur. A drive around the Ringstraße will introduce you to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historic centre. Alternatively, enjoy a bike tour along the serene trails on Donauinsel, the Danube Island.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Vienna

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour in Vienna

    DiscoverMORE
    Exclusive Viennese evening concert (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    Vienna - Bratislava
    Wed, Jul 15, 2026

    This morning you will sail to Bratislava.  Explore the city’s historic architecture on an included guided tour, where everything is within walking distance, including the ornate exterior of the Slovak National Theatre. This afternoon, enjoy a guided hike to the fairy tale-like Bratislava Castle.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Bratislava

    EmeraldPLUS
    Local Slovakian entertainment on board

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided hike to Bratislava Castle

    DiscoverMORE
    Carpathian Wine Route (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    Budapest
    Thu, Jul 16, 2026

    This morning, relax on board your Star-Ship while we sail from Slovakia to Hungary. In Budapest, an exciting program awaits you. As you sail into this magnificent city, it becomes immediately apparent why the Hungarian capital is known as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’.  In the afternoon, explore the city's cobbled medieval quarter as you embark on a coach tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Your guide will teach you about the Hungarian capital's culinary scene while touring the neo-Gothic Grand Market, Budapest's largest and most expansive indoor market, where you'll have time to explore independently.

    Included Excursion
    Budapest tour with Grand Market visit

    EmeraldPLUS
    Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    Budapest
    Fri, Jul 17, 2026

    Venture into the city independently to explore Budapest's hidden treasures.If you're feeling more active, you can instead choose to hike to Gellert Hill. The surrounding area has been rebuilt several times, most recently following the air raids of WWII. Some 18th-century Baroque houses still stand, best explored from the medieval paths and alleyways of the area around Buda Castle. This evening, enjoy a traditional Hungarian folklore show on board.

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Hike to Gellert Hill

    DiscoverMORE
    Tour to Szentendre (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Jewish heritage tour (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Budapest by Night (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day 9
    Budapest
    Sat, Jul 18, 2026

    On your last full day in Budapest, we invite you to a special dinner and a traditional folklore show for a truly immersive local experience. This is a great chance to bid farewell to your fellow travellers before going home.

    EmeraldPLUS
    Dinner & Folklore Show in Budapest

    DiscoverMORE
    Retro tour of post-Communist Budapest (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  10. Day 10
    Budapest 
    Sun, Jul 19, 2026

    After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests. Disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of apricot orchards and ancient Roman cities with you.  

    This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.


    Meals: Breakfast

Rivers Visited

Danube

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Ship Information

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Cabins

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Life on Board

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Questions & Answers
  Ask A Question

Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.3
Accommodations
3.9
Itinerary
4.6
Professional Staff
4.6
Repeat with Operator
4.1
Value for Money
4.3

Ratings based off 9 reviews - currently showing 4 reviews with comments only

Fabulous experience! As usual I was extremely nervous about traveling and all of the things that “could” go wrong. Everything that AffordableTours.com promised was executed without a hitch! It was a wonderful trip and incredible service from AffordableTours.com and their team members. Thank you!

Although this is my first river cruise, so I cannot compare with other companies, I was very happy with Emerald with a few exceptions. They advertise that it is all inclusive and do offer several free tour options at each port, but that also sell Discovery options that are more money. We did 4 of those which increased the cost for 2 by $600. If you like to workout, forget the gym, which had one rowing machine, an exercise bike and some dumbbells with enough room for 3 people at most. The staff were all great, the food was very good and the itinerary was excellent. They have a small swimming pool and late night activities. Good diversity with most people from US, Canada, Australia and new Zealand.

Our third river cruise but found the baths on this particular ship to be very small. The crew, though, was excellent, especially the director!

I absolutely loved the cities and towns we visited. I met mant new friends on this trip. The staff were very friendly, professional and attentive to my needs.

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AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Emerald. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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