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Germany, Austria, Slovakia & Hungary
Dream Wine Cruise on the Danube

Wine Lovers Cruise on the Danube

8 Days / 4 Countries.  Unbelievable!

November 3 - 10, 2026

Cruise along the peaceful Danube River through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary—stopping at some of Central Europe’s most splendid capitals and charming towns along the way.

Danube River Cruise with the Seven Birches Wine ClubA Certified Sommelier will travel with you on your cruise to host lectures, tastings, and tips on food–and-wine pairing.

isit Passau, Germany—called the “City of Three Rivers” at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Take a guided walking tour to admire the Patrician houses and baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral. In Linz, Austria, walk around the Hauptplatz, Austria’s largest medieval square. Enjoy the magnificent views as your Danube River cruise takes you through the picturesque wine region of the Wachau Valley. Stops include a visit to the magnificent Benedictine Abbey in Melk and Dürnstein to see the famous blue and white Stiftskirche and taste some of the local wines. Vienna, the “City of Music,” makes an immediate impression with its lavish Hofburg Imperial Palace and neo-renaissance Vienna Opera House. Enjoy a guided tour of this magical city and take time to explore on your own. In Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, take a guided walk through the delightful Old Town and to the Gothic St. Martin’s Cathedral. In Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, a local expert shows you all the must-see sights. Then to round out this timeless European river cruise, take a stroll along Váci utca—the main shopping street, or take pictures from Fishermen’s Bastion for the best panoramic views of Budapest. This Danube River cruise explores the legendary beauty and remarkable destinations you’ll never forget.

About Certified Sommeliers
Seldom do travelers get the chance to learn about wines from certified experts in the field! Avalon invites you to sail in the company of a certified sommelier who shares elite experience, unsurpassed knowledge, and personal passion for wines on board your ship. We are honored to offer our guests the expertise of certified sommeliers who join select cruises to share their insights and inspiration in all things wine. Truly exclusive experiences for wine lovers!

*taken directly from the Avalon Waterways website*
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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WHAT does the trip include?

Danube River Cruise Map

8 Days Sailing the Danube River, through Germany, Austria, Slovakia & Hungary

  • 8 Days, 7 Nights, aboard the Avalon Impression starting in Vilshofen, Germany and ending in Budapest, Hungary.
  • Includes deluxe stateroom accommodations, double occupancy (upgrades available).
  • Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner each day (all wine & beverages included at meals).
  • 6 days of cultural adventures and wine excursions (you choose your excursion in each port).
  • Master of Wine onboard conducting special wine tastings of local wines.
  • Does NOT include flights to/from Europe.  Flights are on your own.
  • Does NOT included transfers to/from airports and the ship.  They are available for a fee.
  • Includes on-board gratuities and all port charges.

Click HERE For Day-by Day Excursions

WHERE are we going?

Germany, Austria, Slovakia & Hungary

The Historic and Cultural Wonders on the Danube River

Day 1  – VILSHOFEN, GERMANY (EMBARKATION)
Day 2 – PASSAU–SCHLÖGEN OXBOW
Day 3 – LINZ, AUSTRIA
Day 4 – YBBS. EXCURSION TO MELK–WACHAU VALLEY
Day 5 – VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Day 6 – BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
Day 7 – BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Day 8 – BUDAPEST (DISEMBARKATION)
View the current itinerary as laid out by Avalon Waterways

WHEN do we set sail?

November 3 – 10, 2026  (Tuesday – Tuesday)

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 3, 2026 from Vilshofen, Germany (EMBARKATION)

  • Recommended Flights into Munich, Germany.
  • Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

Generally, flights depart USA in the evening, and arrive in Europe the next day.  Make sure your arrival day matches the embarkation day.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 10, 2026 – Budapest, Hungary (DISEMBARKATION)

  • Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
  • Recommended flights out of Budapest, Hungary.

HOW do we get there?

Aboard the luxury riverboat, Avalon Impression

Avalon Impression on the Danube

You will need to book your own flights coming and going.  But, before you do, lets chat.  There are many great ways to make the flights more affordable and/or more valuable.

The ship will depart from Vilshofen, Germany.  The closest airport is Munich (transfers available).    The last port of call is Budapest and the closest airport there is, indeed, Budapest (transfers available).

  • Arrival transfers into Munich will be $55 per person. We ask that in order to accommodate the transfer, arrival flights be wheels down between 6:am and 5:00pm.

  • Departure transfers from Budapest would also be $55 per person. We ask for the departure transfer, flights not be before 6:00am and the last transfer will be run at 6:00pm.

WHO is invited?

Club Members, Family & Friends of Club Members are all welcome!

Seven Birches Wine Club aboard an Avalon River Cruise

Seven Birches Wine Club aboard an Avalon River Cruise

WHY should we choose this club trip?

Where do we start?

  1. Avalon River Cruises are bucket-list level trips.  The level of service and the experience is unrivaled.
  2. This part of Europe has such deep, rich history.  Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary are often overlooked destinations in Europe.
  3. This particular cruise is WINE focused.  There’s a sommelier on board and many of the activities are wine related.
  4. Your fellow club members are going too.  What a great way to meet people with similar interests.
  5. Budapest.
  6. Past experience on these trips are entirely positive.  Some of the comments include “Wow, best trip ever” and “I’ll never go back to ocean crusing.”

“There’s actually no way for us to adequately explain why you should join us on the Danube.  Either you want to go on an epic adventure, or your don’t.” ~ Mark LaClair, Owner

Deluxe Stateroom
Category "E"

$ 2830

per person, double occupancy

+ $359 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category E, D

INDIGO DECK / FOREWARD

Deluxe Stateroom
Category "D"

$ 2880

per person, double occupancy

+ $359 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category E, D

INDIGO DECK / AFT

Panorama Suite
Category "B"Best Value

$ 4479

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category A, B, P

200 sq. ft.

SAPPHIRE DECK / AFT

Panoram Suite
Category "A"

$ 4579

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category A, B, P

200 sq. ft.

SAPPHIRE DECK / FOREWARD

Panoram Suit
Category "P"

$ 4629

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category A, B, P

200 sq. ft.

ROYAL DECK

Royal Suite
Category "S"

$ 5829

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

300 sq. ft.

ROYAL DECK

START SOONER, SEE MORE!

Prague, Czechia with Seven Birches Wine Club2 Nights in Prague, Czechia

+ $ 699 per person, double occupancy

Spend 3 days, 2 nights before the cruise enjoying this magnificent city.  Your adventure would start on November 1st, 2026.

View the Full Itinerary

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

If the answers aren't right here, please contact us. We're here to help.

How do I reserve my spot on this trip?

When you are ready to reserve your spot on this trip, simply contact us directly and we will start the process.  We will communicate with you individually to get all the details just right.  Then, we will create an invoice for you with all of your details and the costs for the trip.   Your invoice will request a non-refundable deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The very first thing required is your NON-REFUNDABLE, $250 per person deposit (plus any travel protection purchase).  The last day that you are able to commit to the trip, by way of making your deposit, is April 7, 2026.  However, please do not wait that long to decide and make your deposit.  This trip is limited and first come, first served.

Once your deposit is made, we will be in touch with you for more information and next steps.

What is the payment plan for this trip?

Please make note of the following important dates regarding your booking and the payment plan:

  • $250 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT due no later than April 7, 2026
  • Trip Balance due no later than July 5, 2026

Installment plans will be discussed with you once you have made your deposit and secured your reservations.  You may wish to make frequent (monthly) payments in smaller increments between now and the final payment date.  We can assist you in setting that up.  Contact us if you would like to do this now.

How do we get to/from the airport/ship on arrival and departure days?

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Transportation from the airport to the ship is available, as are transfers from the ship to airports.  So much depends on your total travel plans, that we recommend discussing with Mark and Stephanie, who will be joining you on this trip.  Please contact us if you would like to discuss your options.

If you choose to purchase arrival transfers with Avalon Waterways, you’ll need to fly into Munich to catch a transfer.

  • Arrival transfers into Munich will be $55 per person. We ask that in order to accommodate the transfer, arrival flights be wheels down between 6:am and 5:00pm.
  • Departure transfers from Budapest would also be $55 per person. We ask for the departure transfer, flights not be before 6:00am and the last transfer will be run at 6:00pm.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

You certainly may choose public transportation rather than booking transfers.  Those with a sense of adventure could choose to find other suitable bus, train, or even taxi options that might be cheaper.  Again, the best thing to do is to speak with Mark or Stephanie about options. Please contact us if you would like to discuss your options.

What is the refund policy for this trip?

Your initial deposit of $250 is NON-REFUNDABLE.  You will not be able to get your money back, if you need to cancel.  We highly recommend purchasing the travel protection option (or other travel insurance) to be on the safe side.

IF you need to cancel, PRIOR to July 5, 2026, you will receive a refund minus the non-refundable deposit of $250.

AFTER July 5, 2026, cancellations will not be refunded and you will forfeit your trip.  Another good reason to purchase the travel protection option.

What does the travel protection entail and include?

Travel Protection:

  • Insurance provider: Aon Affinity
  • Able to add any time prior to final payment
  • Must purchase within two weeks of booking tour to cover pre-existing conditions
  • Nonrefundable
  • Detailed summary of coverage: affinitytravelcert.com/docs/GFB01

*Travel Protection is available for an additional $359 pp (trip cost = $2001–$4000) or $439 pp (trip cost = $4001 – $6000) or $479pp (trip cost = $6001 and up).
(Must be purchased at the same time of initial deposit, and is non- refundable, unless the tour is cancelled by the Operator.)

This plan offers comprehensive protection for your vacation. In addition to excellent trip coverage and cancellation protection, the plan includes a Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit that allows for cancellations  up to 24 hours prior to departure (or prior business day, whichever is farther out) for any reason.  In the event cancellation is for a non-covered reason under Travel Protection, the cancellation penalty retained by Globus, minus the Travel Protection payment, will be reimbursed under the Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit in the form of Travel Certificates valid for travel within two years from the original cancelled vacation start date. This Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit does not cover Instant Purchase Air or independently purchased air.

*Travel Protection rate is based on the land cost of the tour. Rate may vary with additional land services i.e. single supplements and cabin upgrades.

What food and beverages are included on this trip?

  • Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
  • Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
  • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
  • Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
  • Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
  • Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
  • Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
  • Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
  • Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro’s tasting menu for a less formal “sit-down” atmosphere
  • Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
  • Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
  • Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
  • Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
  • Included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
  • Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
  • Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day

Are gratuities included?

Gratuities for onboard ship staff are all included in your trip cost.  However, gratuities for off-ship tour guides, bus drivers and other activities are NOT included, but are appreciated by those services.

I'm traveling alone. How does that work?

The prices listed for this trip are based on “double occupancy” meaning that the accommodations are meant for 2 people.   If you are considering traveling alone, then there will most likely be an additional fee that you would need to pay called a “single supplement”.  That fee is often almost as much as having another person travel with you, which is why we encourage traveling in pairs.

The reason that tour operators charge this “single supplement” is because the rooms/spots they have to sell can accommodate 2 people.  When you travel alone, you are taking up 2 spots, and they would lose out on selling the 2nd spot.  They charge the “single supplement” to ensure that they are not losing on revenue that they would normally be able to make.  These fees vary by trip and accommodation type.

IF you have any question or need any further clarification or assistance with this, please contact us.

Much of the content for this webpage, was purposefully curated from the Avalon Waterways website for marketing and accuracy purposes.  Photos and text content is credited to Avalon Waterways.  Listed pricing is that of Seven Birches Wine Club members only.
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