Low Deposits
Free Monthly Payments
99% Customer Satisfaction
UK's Largest Independent Travel Agent
Featured Deal Types

Danube Explorer & Budapest

Emerald Cruises Emerald Sky
Date 8th Nov 26
Nights 9 Nights
1
Budapest
Welcome to Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube’, where you will be greeted by one of our Emerald Cruises representatives and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship. Once on board, you receive a warm welcome from our friendly crew.
2
Budapest
Your journey starts in Budapest, where a fantastic trip and exciting experiences await. 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 on your own. If you are feeling more active, you can instead choose to hike up 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 around Buda Castle. This evening, join your fellow guests for a traditional Hungarian folklore show.
3
Budapest
Today, we invite you to a special dinner and a traditional folklore show for a truly immersive local experience, presenting you with a great chance to get to know your fellow travellers and to spend the evening in town just like the locals do.
4
Budapest
On our last morning in Budapest, enjoy a leisurely walk in town or use one of the on board bikes for a last ride through the Hungarian capital. In the afternoon, our ship sets sail on the magnificent Danube River onto our next destination – Slovakia.
5
Bratislava
Early this morning we sail into the Slovakian capital. The romantic cobblestone lanes weaving through the city are yours to explore. Enjoy guided walking tours of the ancient town centre, passing a range of Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings, including the incredible Slovak National Theatre. Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle, a fairy tale-like landmark steeped in legend. This striking building has been rebuilt several times. Most recently in the mid-20th century. Tonight, enjoy some local Slovakian entertainment on board.
6
Vienna
Sweeping boulevards and world-famous exhibition halls welcome you to Vienna, the birthplace of revolutionary breakthroughs in the fields of music and psychology. The city perfectly encapsulates the extravagance of the Habsburg Monarchy and their ornate Baroque palaces. A walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre uncovers the classical architectural styles of the city, evidence of the melting pot of artistic influences that existed here at the turn of the 20th century. If you are feeling more active, choose to explore on two wheels, cycling along the river to Donau insel, Danube Island.
7
Weissenkirchen – Melk
Effortlessly suspended in time, Weissenkirchen is one of the most frequented parts of the Wachau wine region, where the delightful warm weather creates the perfect setting for viticulture. Later, sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and arrive in Melk, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Melk Abbey. Originally a lavish castle gifted to Benedictine monks during the 11th century, this opulent Baroque building is home to some of the most important collections of medieval manuscripts.
8
Linz – Ceský Krumlov
This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Linz. Transfer by coach across the border into the Czech Republic to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre of Ceský Krumlov, a town built around a 13th-century castle. Join your local guide on a walk along the labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets, passing the colourful façades of buildings, as you learn how the architecture survived the test of time. The town surrounds the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ceský Krumlov Castle, and your guided tour will include the 15th-century St. Vitus Church and a number of delightful Gothic façades.
9
Passau
Narrow cobblestone streets and the aroma of freshly baked goods welcome you to Passau, a town nestled on the confluence of three of Europe’s main waterways. This historic trading centre borders Austria and boasts a distinctive blend of cultures. Experience a typical Bavarian farm for some interesting insights into the life of local farmers and livestock farming, then try their homemade specialities. Alternatively, you can set off on a hike, catching sights such as the Mariahilf and St. Severin, an ancient church dating back to the Ottonian dynasty.
10
Passau
After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of Europe’s iconic skylines and charming small towns along the Danube River with you.
Why Book
Why Book
  • Riviera Deck Stateroom from £3,145pp
  • Vista Suite Deck Panorama Balcony Suite from £4,550pp
  • 9 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Sip
  • Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Budapest tour with Grand Market visit
  • Walking tour of Bratislava
  • Guided tour of Vienna
  • Guided tour of Melk Abby
  • Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
  • Dinner & folklore show in Budapest
  • Local Slovakian entertainment on board
  • Guided tour of Ceský Krumlov
  • Bavarian Countryside Experience
  • Hike to Gellert Hill
  • Guided hike to Bratislava Castle
  • Guided bike tour in Vienna
  • Guided hike in Weissenkirchen
  • Guided bike tour along the Danube River
  • Hike to Veste Oberhaus
  • 24 delectable meals including 9 breakfasts (B), 7 lunches (L), 8 dinners (D)
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board


Get in touch now to book this deal or make an enquiry

Background
Emerald Sky
Overview
The Emerald Waterways fleet welcomed Emerald Sky in 2014. Setting sail with a maximum of 182 guests onboard, you will soon be on first name terms with the crew and your fellow travelling companions. Life onboard is casual and relaxing - from gourmet culinary options and light entertainment to indulgent leisure facilities. Start the day with a leisurely breakfast as you make plans for your day. The Sun Deck is the hub of the ship whatever the weather, thanks to its retractable roof. Work on your tan on a deck chair or hit a ball around the golf putting green. Take a few turns around the walking track as you soak up the riverside views. Shape up with a workout in the fitness centre or take a dip in the heated pool. The ship drops anchor at a variety of ports along the Rhine, Danube and Moselle rivers, where you can explore famous sights on an included excursion or venture ashore alone by complimentary bike. The 92 staterooms and suites are spread across three beautifully appointed decks - the Horizon Deck has Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites, Grand Balcony Suites and the Owner's One-bedroom Suite; Vista Deck has Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites; and the Riviera Deck has Emerald Staterooms and Emerald Single Staterooms.
Emerald Sky
Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Sky - The Terrace Emerald Sky - The Terrace Emerald Sky - The Terrace Emerald Sky - The Terrace Emerald Sky - Sky Barbecue Emerald Sky - Healthy Dining
Food & Drink

Delectable dining on board our Star-Ships

Nothing beats sipping on your favourite drink at the Terrace as you watch the stunning scenery pass you by. Setting the benchmark in on board dining, the Reflections Restaurant is an elegant space to enjoy exquisite culinary experiences, imbued with continental flavours.

Explore the unique flavours of the regions you sail through

We believe that food should reflect local flavours, which is why our menus take inspiration from the regions we sail in. Our chefs source local ingredients, creating meals that capture authentic cuisine no matter where your journey takes you.

Entertainment

Relax and connect on board in the inviting social spaces

From the chilled and relaxed vibe of the Horizon Bar & Lounge to the open-air surrounds of the Sun Deck, you’ll find plenty of spaces on board to enjoy the company of new-found friends.

Emerald Sky - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Sky - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Sky - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Sky - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Sky - Sun Deck Emerald Sky - Sun Deck Emerald Sky - Sun Deck Emerald Sky - Sun Deck Emerald Sky - Sun Deck Emerald Sky - Sun Deck Emerald Sky - Sun Deck Emerald Sky - Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema Emerald Sky - Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema Emerald Sky - Reception Emerald Sky - Reception Emerald Sky - The Wheelhouse
Emerald Sky - Pool Emerald Sky - Pool Emerald Sky - Pool Emerald Sky - Pool Emerald Sky - Fitness Area Emerald Sky - Walking Track Emerald Sky - Wellness Area Emerald Sky - Hairdressers Emerald Sky - Hairdressers
Health & Fitness

Discover Europe with EmeraldACTIVE

If you want to feed your body and mind during your cruise, we’ve got you covered with EmeraldACTIVE. During your Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Danube, or Douro cruise, our activity managers will be on hand to help you stay active during your voyage.

For mind, body & soul

Discover new ways to keep up your current fitness regime and wellbeing exercises, with fun activities, expert-led workout sessions, or a rejuvenating spa treatment^.

^Additional cost.

Terms & Conditions
Advertised offers are based on 2 adults sharing the lowest category stateroom/cabin/suite unless otherwise stated. Single supplements may apply. Offers are subject to availability and can change without any prior notice and may go up or down in price. Cruise Line campaign(s) and saving messages are strictly controlled by the Cruise Line(s) and are subject to change or be withdrawn without notice. Flight inclusive packages, where promoted, are based on the cheapest UK departure airport so please ask for further details. Advertised hotels, if any, are suggested however are changeable at a possible additional cost.  All prices and port itineraries are correct at the time of print but are subject to change by the Cruise Line(s) without prior notice. Hays Travel reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions in this brochure. Some ports of call may be tendered whereas vessels drop anchor a short distance away and use small boats to reach the shore. Full board to all-inclusive inclusions vary by the Cruise Line(s) and restrictions may apply. Some onboard facilities and items may incur a charge. Select destinations may require travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to be completed prior to travelling. Hays Travel LTD excepts no responsibility or compensation for any incomplete forms or declined entries from the respective country or countries that the individual(s) are visiting.
Danube Explorer & Budapest
Emerald Sky
8th Nov 26
9 Nights
From
£3,145PP
Terms of Business Privacy Notice Copyright © Hays Travel 2026
ABTA Payment Types