Luxury Danube River Compass Cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen with Munich stay

Includes Bavarian train journey from Vilshofen to Munich

Discover the beauty of Central Europe on this 9-night Celebrity Compass Danube cruise package, starting with flights to Budapest and an overnight stay on board that lets you explore its riverside landmarks and lively markets. Your journey continues with an overnight in Bratislava, time in Hainsburg, and a full overnight in Vienna to enjoy its museums, classical music heritage and elegant streets.

Sail through the iconic Wachau Valley to Melk, Engelhartszell and historic Passau before reaching Vilshofen. A scenic train ride then takes you to Munich, where two nights of five-star bed-and-breakfast accommodation allow you to enjoy Bavarian culture and world-famous sights before your return flight home.

Fly to Budapest and make your way to the river cruise terminal to embark the boat. Spend overnight in port to explore the city.

Celebrity Compass

Celebrity Compass, launching in 2027, is Celebrity River Cruises’ first European river ship, designed to bring modern luxury to the waterways of Europe. The ship accommodates 172 passengers in 86 staterooms, offering an intimate yet spacious onboard experience. With a sleek, innovative design and four decks, including three dedicated to cabins, guests enjoy easy flow throughout the ship and plentiful scenic viewpoints.

Further time to explore the city after breakfast before the river cruise begins is voyage along the Danube at 2030.

Budapest

Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary, is a city where history, culture, and modern energy converge along the banks of the majestic Danube River. Often called the “Pearl of the Danube,” the city is renowned for its stunning architecture, ranging from the medieval Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion to the grandiose Parliament Building and elegant bridges that connect Buda and Pest.

The boat arrives in Bratislava at 1300. Spend overnight onboard in port to explore the capital of Slovakia by day and by Night

Bratislava

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is an ideal overnight stop for Danube river‑cruise travellers, with ships docking just steps from the historic Old Town, making it easy to explore on foot. Its compact city centre offers medieval streets, charming squares, and highlights such as Bratislava Castle, rising above the Danube with sweeping city and river views. Visitors can wander past landmarks including Michael’s Gate, St. Martin’s Cathedral, and the quirky bronze statues scattered through the Old Town.

The leaves Bratislava at 7am and continues along the Danube for a stop at Hainsburg (0830 to 1300) before arriving in Vienna at 1730 for the night.

Hainsburg

Hainburg an der Donau is a picturesque medieval town on the Danube, known for its remarkably preserved fortifications, including the massive 13th‑century Wienertor and historic town walls. Visitors can explore hilltop castle ruins, Gothic St. Stephen’s Church, and scenic riverside paths with panoramic views. Its charming old streets, rich history, and proximity to the Danube‑Auen National Park make Hainburg a peaceful and culturally immersive river‑cruise stop.

More time to explore Vienna throughout the day after breakfast. the boat departs at 2300.

Vienna

Experience the elegance and charm of Vienna, a city renowned for its imperial architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant music scene. Stroll through historic streets, visit the majestic Schönbrunn Palace, and indulge in authentic Viennese coffee culture. Perfect for art lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies, Vienna offers a unique blend of tradition and modern sophistication. Book your Vienna city break today and explore one of Europe's most beautiful destinations!

The boat continues its journey through the Wachau Valley to visit Melk in Austria from 1100 to 1700.

Melk

Melk, set in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley, is a highlight of Danube river cruises, best known for the magnificent Baroque Melk Abbey rising above the town. Visitors can explore its grand library, frescoed halls, and panoramic terrace, then wander Melk’s charming old town with cobbled streets, cafés, and pastel buildings. The surrounding Wachau Valley offers vineyards, medieval ruins, and picturesque landscapes, making Melk a richly cultural and visually stunning cruise stop.

The boat continues its journey along the Danube to visit Engelhartszell from 1030 to 1530 and makes a quick stop at Passau to allow for excursion departires before continuing 14.6 miles along the river to arrive at Vilshofen at 2100 for the night. 

Passau

Passau, often called the “City of Three Rivers,” is one of Bavaria’s most picturesque destinations and a major hub for Danube River cruises. Set at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, the city enchants visitors with its baroque Old Town, pastel‑colored architecture, and the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of the world’s largest church organs.

After breakfast disembark the ship and make your way to the nearby Neiderbay train station for your Bavarian train journey to Munich. Disembark the train and make your way to your nearby hotel for an overnight stay.

Vilshofen

Vilshofen an der Donau, known as the “Little Town with a Great Heart,” is a charming Bavarian gateway to the Danube River and a popular embarkation port for river cruises. This picturesque town blends historic architecture, inviting riverfront promenades, and a relaxed Bavarian atmosphere - making it an ideal starting point for travelers exploring Europe by water.

Deutsche Bahn - Vilshofen Neiderbay to Munich HBF Direct 1hr 57 Mins

Travel through the heart of Bavaria with a smooth and scenic Deutsche Bahn journey from Vilshofen to Munich. Covering around 132 km with an average travel time of 1h 54m to 2h, this direct service offers frequent daily departures, giving travellers flexibility and comfort throughout the day.

Operated by Deutsche Bahn Regional and ICE services, the route provides clean, modern carriages, generous seating, and easy connections into Munich Hauptbahnhof, the city’s main transport hub. With up to 28 trains per day, this Bavarian rail link is ideal for exploring Munich’s cultural highlights or connecting onward across Germany. A dependable and comfortable start or end to any Danube river cruise holiday.

A further overnight hotel stay in Munich.

Le Meridien Munich

Relax at the full-service spa, where you can enjoy massages. You're sure to appreciate the recreational amenities, including an indoor pool, a sauna, and a 24-hour fitness center. Additional features at this hotel include complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and babysitting (surcharge). Enjoy German cuisine at Irmi, a restaurant where you can take in the garden view and dine alfresco. Or stay in and take advantage of the 24-hour room service. Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. Cooked-to-order breakfasts are served on weekdays from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM and on weekends from 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee. Featured amenities include a 24-hour business center, limo/town car service, and express check-in. Planning an event in Munich? This hotel has 6383 square feet (593 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and 8 meeting rooms. Self parking (subject to charges) is available onsite.

Munich

Munich, the vibrant capital of Bavaria, blends centuries‑old heritage with modern cultural energy. At its heart lies Marienplatz, framed by the Gothic Neues Rathaus and its famous Glockenspiel, while landmarks like the Frauenkirche and Nymphenburg Palace highlight the city’s rich architectural legacy.

After breakfast make your way to the airport for your flight home. 

Origin Start Date Interior Oceanview Balcony Suite
Gatwick 19/08/27 NA NA £7099 £10619 View
Gatwick 02/09/27 NA £5899 £7259 NA View
Gatwick 16/09/27 NA NA £7619 £10479 View
Gatwick 28/10/27 NA £5059 £5959 NA View
Gatwick 11/11/27 NA NA £5659 NA View
Gatwick 25/05/28 NA £5269 £6879 £10419 View
Gatwick 08/06/28 NA £5039 £6379 £9239 View
Gatwick 22/06/28 NA £4799 £6259 £8599 View
Gatwick 06/07/28 NA £4829 £5699 £8349 View
Gatwick 20/07/28 NA £4689 £5669 £9079 View