18 Day Danube River Cruise with Prague & Romania Monarch Queen
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Offer applies to new bookings made through April 30, 2025 and is valid on 2025/2026 departures. $400 per person savings is valid on European River Cruises. Promotion is not combinable with any other offer. Additional restrictions may apply.
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Gate 1 offers the flexibility of paying for your vacation by credit card or check. Choose check for your final payment to save 5% off of your remaining balance. Full details will be sent with your invoice.
- Day 1DAY 1, Wednesday - Depart for the Czech RepublicWed, Sep 02, 2026Depart for the Czech Republic
- Day 2DAY 2, Thursday - Arrive in PragueThu, Sep 03, 2026Arrive in the "Golden City" of Prague and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure. This evening, attend an orientation meeting with your local host at the hotel at approximately 6 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Prague - Day 3DAY 3, Friday - Prague City TourFri, Sep 04, 2026The morning tour of Prague includes a visit to the 1000-year-old Hradcany Castle grounds, former residence of the Bohemian kings. Admire magnificent views of the Charles Bridge and Lesser Town below and see the elegant courtyards, St. George Basilica and the St. Vitus Cathedral. Continue to the Jewish Quarter, and the Old Town Square to view the world-famous Astronomical Clock and Town Hall. The rest of the day is at leisure to visit the museums, galleries or wander along the banks of the Vltava River. Perhaps, join the optional afternoon tour to Terezin, the infamous Nazi WWII concentration camp, now a memorial to those who perished
Optional: Half Day Terezin Tour (PM)
Overnight: Prague
Meals: Breakfast - Day 4DAY 4, Saturday - Full Day in PragueSat, Sep 05, 2026Today is free to further explore this beautiful city independently. Visit the museums, galleries or stroll along Parizska Street, the city's famous shopping district, or join the optional tour of Malá Strana*, also known as Lesser Town, one of Prague's most historic districts. Explore this enchanting part of Prague, filled with important cultural landmarks such as the Charles Bridge with its 30 Baroque statues of various saints, and beautiful Kampa Island which is full of quaint restaurants and a lovely park. This evening, perhaps try traditional Czech cuisine at a popular restaurant. Remember to sample Prague's national treasure, its world-renowned beer
*Mala Strana Tour is available for Apr - Oct departures only.
Optional: Mala Strana Tour (AM)
Overnight: Prague
Meals: Breakfast - Day 5DAY 5, Sunday - Pilsen, Cruise Embarkation in RegensburgSun, Sep 06, 2026This morning, bid farewell to Prague and head to the port in Regensburg. On your way, stop in the city of Pilsen for a tour. Visit Republic Square, one of the largest medieval squares in the Czech Republic, and gaze upon the Gothic style of St. Bartholomew's Cathedral & Old Town Hall. View the onion domes of the Great Synagogue before free time to explore Pilsen on your own. Later, continue to the port in Regensburg for embarkation. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. Tonight, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 6DAY 6, Monday - Regensburg City TourMon, Sep 07, 2026This morning, explore Regensburg, one of Germany's largest and best-preserved medieval cities, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour highlights the city's stunning architecture as you view the Old Town Hall, Dom St. Peter and the Porta Praetoria, gateway to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Marvel at beautiful churches and one of the oldest stone bridges crossing the Danube. Return to the ship for lunch or spend the afternoon at leisure discovering the delights of Regensburg on your own. In the afternoon the ship will set sail for Passau
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Day 7DAY 7, Tuesday - Morning in PassauTue, Sep 08, 2026Dock this morning in 2500-year-old Passau, known for its pastel patrician houses, cafes, cobblestone lanes and riverfront promenade. Passau is a Bavarian town with a mix of Roman, Italian Baroque and Gothic architecture. Explore Passau on an orientation walk in the morning or join the optional full day tour to picturesque Salzburg*, birthplace of Mozart and setting for The Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg's most historic sites including Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. After lunch at a local restaurant, there will be time to discover Salzburg on your own before returning to the ship. If you choose to remain onboard the ship, continue sailing during lunch and relax this afternoon. In early evening, all passengers will rejoin the ship and continue sailing for Melk
*Passengers who choose this optional, will not be able to participate in the orientation walk of Passau.
Optional: Tour of Salzburg
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Day 8DAY 8, Wednesday - Melk AbbeyWed, Sep 09, 2026Disembark in Melk this morning for a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. View the Abbot's chambers, the Kaiser's walk and the lavish library. Then, return to the ship and continue cruising through the scenic Wachau Valley. This afternoon, arrive in the village of Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube. Free time to stroll this quintessential village in the heart of the Wachau wine district. Walk along medieval cobblestone streets revealing 16th century town houses and wine taverns
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Day 9DAY 9, Thursday - Vienna City TourThu, Sep 10, 2026Your morning tour of romantic Vienna introduces you to this imperial city with its legendary opulence and elegance. Drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna's main boulevard lined with magnificent palaces, parks and monuments, as well as the Opera House and the Austrian Parliament. Walk through the lavish Hofburg Palace on the way to St. Stephen's Cathedral. Spend the afternoon at leisure, or, join the optional tour to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once summer residence of the Habsburgs. Visit the gorgeous Baroque apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured gardens. Tonight, perhaps take the opportunity to attend an evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music" at an optional recital performance of the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss
Optional: Schonbrunn Palace Tour (PM)
Optional: Classical Viennese Recital (PM)
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Day 10DAY 10, Friday - Bratislava City TourFri, Sep 11, 2026This morning, enjoy the tranquil scenery as you sail along the scenic Danube. Arrive in Bratislava, capital of Slovakia, a mix of modern and Baroque architecture. This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center. View St. Martin's Cathedral, coronation site of the kings of Hungary, the 13th century Old Town Hall and the Franciscan Church. Time to explore this colorful city on your own before returning to the ship for dinner as you sail for stunning Budapest
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Day 11DAY 11, Saturday - Budapest City TourSat, Sep 12, 2026Begin the morning tour on the Pest side of the city; view the Parliament, City Park and Heroes Square. Admire the Buda side with beautiful views of the Royal Palace, Matthias Church and the graceful medieval architecture. Explore the city's wonderful shops and cafes this afternoon on your own. Tonight, enjoy a lavish dinner on board
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Day 12DAY 12, Sunday - Disembarkation, Timisoara City TourSun, Sep 13, 2026This morning, bid farewell to your Cruise Director and meet your Tour Manager as you disembark in Budapest. Begin your drive to Timisoara in Romania; a vibrant city on the Bega River, built around lavish parks and gardens where the Romanian revolution began in 1989. After free time for lunch, embark on a city tour where you will view the ruins of the Timisoara Fortress, 14th century Hunaidy Castle, and the elegant residential section. Afterwards, opt to explore the non-stop nightlife of Timisoara, named "Little Vienna," home to year-round cultural performances
Overnight: Timisoara
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 13DAY 13, Monday - Depart for Sibiu, Visit Hunedoara en RouteMon, Sep 14, 2026The drive this morning takes you to the region of Transylvania. Visit the mythical 14th century Hunedoara Castle built on old Roman fortifications with huge pointed towers, a massive drawbridge and soaring battlements. This fortress, transformed many times over the years, became the castle of Matthias Corvinus, known as the "Raven King." Then, drive to the charming town of Sibiu, with its maze of cobbled streets and Baroque squares. This cultural center of Europe attracted many musicians in the 19th century and today is the center of Romania's major music festivals. Tonight, dinner is at a local restaurant
Overnight: Sibiu
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 14DAY 14, Tuesday - Tour Sibiu & Sighisoara, Travel to BrasovTue, Sep 15, 2026A guided walking tour begins the day in the bohemian Old Town that still retains the grandeur of its earlier days with a medieval wall guarding the historic area where narrow streets pass by steep-roofed 17th century buildings. View Great Square, Little Square and the Evangelical Cathedral. At the Bridge of Lies, the first forged iron bridge in the country, view decorations of rosettes and geometric motifs. Then depart to Sighisoara, the best-preserved medieval city in Southeastern Europe with fortified walls, cobblestone lanes and 16th century gingerbread houses. Tour the town's famous Clock Tower Museum, view the workings of the magnificent clock with its moving wooden figurines. Then head south to Brasov, nestled at the foot of the Carpathian Mountains for dinner and overnight
Overnight: Brasov
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 15DAY 15, Wednesday - Tour Bran Castle, Brasov City TourWed, Sep 16, 2026Travel south to fabled Bran Castle, surrounded by an aura of mystery and legend, commonly known as "Dracula's Castle." Perched high atop a 200-foot-high rock, Bran Castle owes its fame to the commanding towers and turrets as well as to the myth created around Bram Stocker's character, Count Dracula. Tour the castle, that now serves as a museum displaying art and furniture collected by Queen Marie. Return to Brasov for a walking tour of this lovely city famous for its Town Hall Square filled with ornately trimmed Baroque structures and the first Romanian school with its collection of rare books. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure
Overnight: Brasov
Meals: Breakfast - Day 16DAY 16, Thursday - Peles Castle & Sinaia Monastery en route to BucharestThu, Sep 17, 2026This morning, head to Sinaia. Here, you'll truly be enchanted by a visit to romantic Peles Castle, former summer residence of Romania's first royal family. The castle is a masterpiece of German Neo-Renaissance architecture. Its 160 rooms are decorated with the finest examples of European art. Afterward, proceed to the 17th century Sinaia Monastery in the Prahova Valley, named after the great St. Catherine's Monastery on Mount Sinai. Take a tour of the monastery and its grounds. The museum of Sinaia Monastery is the first religious museum in the country and houses invaluable worship objects. Arrive in the Romanian capital of Bucharest with its lovely parks, gardens, wide boulevards and avenues shaded by centuries-old trees
Overnight: Bucharest
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 17DAY 17, Friday - Bucharest City TourFri, Sep 18, 2026Morning tour in Bucharest, named the "Paris of the East," takes you to the replica of the French Arc de Triomphe, built in 1935 to commemorate the bravery of Romanian soldiers who fought in WWI. Visit the gigantic Parliament Palace, second-largest building in the world after the Pentagon in the U.S. See the Romanian Athenaeum, the Opera House, the National Military Club, and the Military Academy. In your free time this afternoon, stroll down Victory Avenue, a historic street lined with shops, museums, cafes and elegant homes. Bid farewell to your Tour Manager and share wonderful memories at tonight's dinner and festive folklore show
Overnight: Bucharest
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 18DAY 18, Saturday - Depart RomaniaSat, Sep 19, 2026Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Inclusions
Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.
River Cruise Package Includes
Other departure cities available.
Special Features
River Cruise Features & Amenities
Know Before You Book - High & Low Water
European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge. †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates Not Included: Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information. While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: . Know Before You Book - High & Low Water European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge. Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.
Optional shore excursions, optional tours and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land/Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019
Ship Information
Cabins
Life on Board
Questions & Answers Ask A Question
Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?
Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?
The trip was beyond expectations. This is the 2nd time we have used Gate 1 as our tour operator and we will continue to use them in future trips……very memorable experiences on both occasions.
The tour exceeded our expectations.
We really enjoyed the river cruise. The accommodations were as expected, and we were very happy with that. It had enough closet space and the rooms were very comfortable.
Tour Director was excellent, very professional, helpful, knowledgeable and delightful. Activities Director, also excellent. The whole staff could not have been better. Best tour I've been on. Food was very good. One thing I found is all the guides give too much information/details, the non stop commentary whether on the bus or at the visiting sites is too long and tiring.
Rhine river cruise was excellent. Staff on the Monarch Queen was friendly and service was great. Cruise director and local guides were very knowledgeable. Overall wonderful experience.
I don't remember seeing the room options and would have considered a cabin on a higher floor for more of a view. There is a lot of details and for an inexperienced traveler it can be overwhelming. Perhaps a mention of how the rooms work on a cruise would have been helpful.
This River Cruise was wonderful we will book one again.
Second experience with Gate1 and on both occasions we had very knowledgeable guides and effective tour managers. The tour stops were well timed so we did not spend a lot of time in line anywhere. The service on the river ship was excellent, the food very good and we really enjoyed the somewhat casual dinner dress code and atmosphere.
am a long-term traveler with gate 1 so i obviously consider they provide a good program; amsterdam tour pretrip couldn't have been better, river ship staff & services great; however, the 2 gate 1 tour directors on board the river ship could have provided better service--local guides did most of the am local tours, afternoons were largely free, only extra activities provided was an hour game program in the afternoon & a morning exercise program along with early bird breakfast--both provided by the male tour director; the ship's pianist only played briefly; several travelers who were new to gate 1 were complaining about too much free time & i went out of my way to explain that this was unusual; i need to mention that, along with being a gate 1 traveler, we have also taken 5 other river boat cruises;
We were delighted with the Gate1 River cruise. staff was professional, competent, courteous and friendly. food and service excellent. cabin efficient and clean. Itinerary was the right balance between guided tours and free time. we loved the small towns more than the large cities. many people on board were sick and the crew handled this expertly. space on board the ship is limited since the upper deck was off limits for much of the time but we were sailing mostly in the evenings after a full day's activities so it did not feel restrictive. we would definitely consider another river cruise and will definitely go on other tours with Gate1.
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My husband and I thoroughly enjoyed our trip with Affordable Tours/Gate 1. Having a direct flight as opposed to one stop over would have been welcomed as we arrived at Warsaw thoroughly exhausted. Also I would have welcomed the tours starting a little later in the morning. Overall the food, staff and accommodations were great.