Luxury Danube River Compass Cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg with Berlin Stay

Includes Bavarian train journey from Nuremberg to Berlin

Begin your journey in the magnificent city of Budapest, where grand architecture, riverside cafés and historic landmarks provide the perfect introduction to life along the Danube. Step aboard the luxurious Celebrity Compass and settle into an intimate river cruising experience that combines elegant surroundings and attentive service . As the ship sails between some of Central Europe's most celebrated cities, enjoy full-board dining while watching castles, vineyards and villages glide by.

Sail through the heart of Europe, calling at Bratislava, Vienna, Melk, Brandstatt, Passau, Regensburg and Nuremberg. Discover imperial palaces, baroque abbeys, medieval streets and vibrant market squares, all without the need to constantly unpack and repack. The Danube offers a unique perspective on the region, revealing landscapes and historic treasures that cannot be appreciated in the same way by land travel alone.

The adventure continues beyond the river with a scenic Bavarian rail journey from Nuremberg to Berlin. Conclude your holiday with two nights in a centrally located five-star hotel, giving you time to explore Germany's dynamic capital. From the Reichstag and Brandenburg Gate to world-class museums, stylish restaurants and lively neighbourhoods, Berlin provides the perfect finale to this luxury river cruise and city break combination.

Fly to Budapest and make your way to the river cruise terminal to embark the ship.

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.

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.

Arrive at 1400 and depart in the early hours of the morning.

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.

Arrive at 0830 and depart 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!

Arrive at 1100 and depart at 2000.

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 make a quick call at Brandstatt for an hour at 0730 then continues onto  Passau arriving at 1430 and departing at 1700.

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.

Arrive at 1100 and depart at 1800.

Regensburg

Regensburg, a UNESCO‑listed medieval gem on the Danube, is one of Bavaria’s most captivating river‑cruise ports. Just steps from the dock, visitors can explore its beautifully preserved Old Town, stroll across the 12th‑century Stone Bridge, and admire the soaring Gothic spires of St. Peter’s Cathedral.

Arrive at 1330 and spend overnight on board in port.

Nuremberg

Nuremberg, a historic Bavarian city along the Main‑Danube Canal, is a highlight of many river cruises thanks to its medieval Old Town, imposing Imperial Castle, and vibrant cultural heritage. Visitors can wander cobbled lanes, half‑timbered houses, and the lively Hauptmarkt, or delve into profound WWII history at the Documentation Center and rally grounds. With its blend of medieval architecture, museums, and Franconian cuisine, Nuremberg offers a rich and memorable cruise stop.

Disembark the hip after breakfast and make your way to the Hauptbahnhof (main station) for a 3-hour Bavarian train journey to Berlin. Disembark the train and make your way to your nearby hotel for an overnight stay.

ICE train from Nuremberg to Berlin Direct

Travel swiftly across Germany on the high‑speed ICE service from Nuremberg Hbf to Berlin Hbf, covering approximately 235 miles (378 km) along a direct northbound route through Bavaria and central Germany. The journey typically takes around 2h 44m to 3h 26m, with the fastest ICE trains making the trip in as little as 2h 44m.

On board, travellers can expect comfortable modern seating, generous legroom, Wi‑Fi, luggage space, and quiet, climate‑controlled coaches—standard features on ICE trains. Most services run direct without the need to change trains, offering a relaxed and efficient way to reach the heart of Berlin.

With frequent daily departures and reliable Deutsche Bahn operation, this route is ideal for business travellers, tourists, and anyone seeking a fast, stress‑free link between Bavaria and Germany’s capital.

Hilton Berlin

On school or national holidays, this hotel offers a bespoke Family Experience for travellers below the age of 12. Children enjoy a Kids Welcome and a dedicated Kids Breakfast experience. Enjoy your family meals by selecting dishes from the Kids Menu. The hotel has kids amenities available on requestHilton Berlin, located in the center of the city and only a short drive from the main airports, is also on historic Gendarmenmarkt and within walking distance of attractions such as the Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate, Humboldt Forum, Checkpoint Charlie and the Reichstag. Discover excellent shopping at Mall of Berlin and Friedrichsstrasse, only steps away. Hilton Berlin is the perfect location to discover the rich culture and entertainment landscape of this metropolitan city. The hotel provides 601 beautifully furnished guest rooms including 29 individually designed executive suites. All suites overlook the Gendarmenmarkt and come with access to the Executive Lounge. The spacious 360 square meter Executive Lounge offers complimentary breakfast and free WiFi. Additional on-property restaurants are breakfast restaurant Beletage and Listo, featuring regional and international specialties. Listo also serves freshly brewed coffee, tasty pastries and selected wines and spirits. Unwind in the 800 square meter wellness and fitness center featuring a heated indoor pool, massage center and air conditioned 24-hour gym.

A further overnight hotel stay.

Berlin

This top Northern European hotspot is simply bristling with sights to see such as the Brandenburg Gate, Potsdamer Platz, the Berlin Wall, Check Point Charlie and the Reichstag. When you add in the myriad of night life venues, cafe culture and restaurant scene - your holiday will cover all bases for a memorable city break. At the end of World War II, both Germany and Berlin were divided into four zones of occupation under the control of the United States, Britain, France and the Soviet Union.

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

Origin Start Date Interior Oceanview Balcony Suite
Gatwick 25/11/27 NA NA £8999 £11519 View
Gatwick 09/12/27 NA NA £9399 NA View
Gatwick 23/12/27 NA £5249 NA NA View
Gatwick 09/11/28 NA £3919 £4989 £8269 View