18 Day Germany, Switzerland & Austria with Danube River Cruise Regensburg to Budapest, Monarch Queen
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- Day 1DAY 1, Thursday - Depart for GermanyThu, Sep 10, 2026Depart for Frankfurt, Germany
- Day 2DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in FrankfurtFri, Sep 11, 2026Arrive in Frankfurt and transfer to your hotel in nearby Mainz. Balance of the day is at leisure. Your tour will begin with an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager at approximately 6 PM, followed by dinner. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 4 PM
Overnight: Mainz
Meals: Dinner - Day 3DAY 3, Saturday - Rhine River Cruise & Heidelberg City TourSat, Sep 12, 2026The morning begins with a cruise on the scenic Rhine. View stunning vistas of hilltop castles, terraced vineyards, and villages of timber-framed houses. Pass the mighty Lorelei rock rising vertically from the waters named for the siren "Lorelei" who bewitched sailors passing by. In Heidelberg, home to the oldest university in Germany, view the imposing red sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle originally built in the 13th century. This hilltop Gothic masterpiece has encountered turbulent times but still stands as a dominant symbol of the city. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure
Overnight: Heidelberg
Meals: Breakfast - Day 4DAY 4, Sunday - Black ForestSun, Sep 13, 2026Head south on a scenic drive through the Black Forest region, an area of unrivaled natural beauty with its dense forests of thick pine trees. Nestled in the forest, you will see charming traditional homes with their long sloping roofs. Continue on a drive to Schaffhausen, surrounded by vineyards. Here, view the thunderous Rhine Waterfalls; one of Europe's largest and most powerful. Then, on to beautiful Lucerne, with its pristine lakeside setting and gorgeous mountainous panorama. Spend two relaxing nights here in the center of the Swiss Alps. Tonight, dinner is at the hotel
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 5DAY 5, Monday - Full Day in LucerneMon, Sep 14, 2026Today is free to explore Lucerne, the heart of central Switzerland on your own, or join the optional tour to Mount Pilatus. Board a cogwheel railway* which takes you to the summit of Mt. Pilatus at nearly 7,000 feet. Later, descend by aerial cableway. In the afternoon perhaps, visit the impressive Lion Monument, one of the best-known monuments in the country, created in remembrance of the heroic death of Swiss guard killed in 1792. Or head to the Old Town to view the 14th century medieval Chapel Bridge one of the oldest covered wooden bridges in Europe, forming the centerpiece of Lucerne's townscape
*From Nov-May, and in the event of adverse weather, the cogwheel will be replaced by the aerial cable car.
Optional: Mount Pilatus Tour (AM)
Overnight: Lucerne
Meals: Breakfast - Day 6DAY 6, Tuesday - Neuschwanstein CastleTue, Sep 15, 2026This morning drive through glorious Alpine scenery to visit Bavaria's "Mad" King Ludwig's fantasy castle of Neuschwanstein perched high above the valley below. This is one of the most visited castles in Germany and a symbol of idealized romantic architecture. Among the castle's finest rooms are two magnificent halls with extravagant decorations dazzling in gold and blue. Cross into Austria via the Fern Pass and journey to Innsbruck, the Tyrolean "capital" of the Austrian Alps
Overnight: Innsbruck
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 7DAY 7, Wednesday - Full Day in InnsbruckWed, Sep 16, 2026Spend the day at leisure in Innsbruck and explore its imperial splendor on your own. Journey back in time with an array of splendid architectural gems from the Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Neoclassical period. On your orientation tour, stop at the Golden Roof, overlooking a bustling square in the heart of historic Innsbruck and the St. James Cathedral, a spectacular example of Baroque architecture. Innsbruck has also hosted two Olympic Winter Games (1964 and 1976). See the famous ski jump used in the Winter Olympics. Join the afternoon optional tour to charming Seefeld with Carriage Ride. Tonight, experience an authentic Tyrolean evening on the optional tour featuring a varied entertainment program including folk music, Tyrolean dances and yodeling
Optional: Seefeld with Carriage Ride (PM)
Optional: Tyrolean Evening with Drinks (PM)
Overnight: Innsbruck
Meals: Breakfast - Day 8DAY 8, Thursday - Salzburg City TourThu, Sep 17, 2026After breakfast, travel to Salzburg. This Baroque jewel was the birthplace of Mozart. The guided walking tour takes you to view the house where Mozart was born, as well as to the squares and gardens of this beautiful city, crowned by the 11th century Hohensalzburg Fortress. The city is also known for the singing von Trapp family and the setting for the film, The Sound of Music. More time to explore charming Salzburg, or participate in the optional excursion into the surrounding countryside to the ruins of Obersalzberg, once a mountain retreat for senior Nazi SS officers. Then, transfer to special motor coaches adapted for the scenic mountain climb and ascend to Hitler's notorious "Eagle's Nest."*
*The Eagle's Nest Tour operates from May 16-Oct 31 and Austrian Alps & Sound of Music Tour operates the rest of the time.
Optional: Eagle's Nest Tour (PM)
Optional: Austrian Alps & Sound of Music Tour (PM)
Overnight: Salzburg
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 9DAY 9, Friday - Explore MunichFri, Sep 18, 2026This morning, continue to Munich. Arrive at Marienplatz square, cultural center of the city, dominated by the gothic New Town Hall housing Munich's world-famous Glockenspiel, which dates back to 1908. This colorful mechanical clock has life-size figures that dance to music with shows several times a day. In the afternoon, a guided city tour takes you past the Olympic Stadium situated in the heart of Olympia Park in northern Munich built as the main venue for the 1972 Summer Olympics. Then, visit the stunning Nymphenburg Palace with its gorgeous Baroque facade, once summer residence of Bavarian rulers. Driving through the city, you see countless museums, galleries, palaces, and impressive historic monuments. A free evening perhaps to visit one of the famous beer halls!
Overnight: Munich
Meals: Breakfast - Day 10DAY 10, Saturday - Full Day in MunichSat, Sep 19, 2026A full day to enjoy Munich with its plethora of shops and restaurants and to explore at leisure. Perhaps, venture to the mountains on the optional tour to visit Linderhof Palace and Oberammergau, world-famous for its Passion Play. Tonight, at dinner, bid farewell to your Tour Manager
Optional: Linderhof & Oberammergau Tour (AM)
Overnight: Munich
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner - Day 11DAY 11, Sunday - Travel to Regensburg, Cruise EmbarkationSun, Sep 20, 2026Spend the morning at leisure in Munich. This afternoon travel to the port of Regensburg. Embarkation begins at 2 PM. 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 12DAY 12, Monday - Regensburg City TourMon, Sep 21, 2026This morning, explore Regensburg, one of Germany's 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. 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 13DAY 13, Tuesday - Morning in PassauTue, Sep 22, 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 14DAY 14, Wednesday - Melk AbbeyWed, Sep 23, 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 15DAY 15, Thursday - Vienna City TourThu, Sep 24, 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 16DAY 16, Friday - Bratislava City TourFri, Sep 25, 2026This morning, enjoy the tranquil scenery as you sail along the scenic Danube. At noon, 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 17DAY 17, Saturday - Budapest City TourSat, Sep 26, 2026Your morning tour begins 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 medieval architecture. Explore the city's wonderful shops and cafes this afternoon on your own. Tonight, enjoy your final dinner on board
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner - Day 18DAY 18, Sunday - Depart HungarySun, Sep 27, 2026This morning, disembark and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 AM
Meals: Breakfast
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Inclusions
Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.
Escorted 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: Cruise/Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers. Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board. 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 and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Passengers arriving to Frankfurt on day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 2 PM.
Accommodation Details:
Mainz Hotel has a very limited number of twin rooms, and availability cannot be guaranteed. A roll-away bed will be provided in a double room when a twin room is required and not available.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.