The enchanting Danube is the heart and soul of Central Europe. Its banks are home to opulent, culture-packed cities, picturesque towns and villages, and miles of unspoilt countryside.
The cities along the Danube have also provided the setting for many cult films. Vienna in particular has a rich cinematic history. A real treat for movie-lovers, this cruise will take you to see the famous set location of celebrated Carol Reed film The Third Man.
Making this trip extra special are a series of talks and events with our own Noel Cronin and Mike Read, The Footage Detectives, on board, including two talks, a quiz and a film screening.
As well as tracing the footsteps of Orson Welles and others, you'll also get to see more cultural highlights in Vienna, Bratislava and Linz.
At this time of year, these cities will be abuzz with festive spirit. Christmas lights shine out from the high windows of magnificent historical buildings, while baroque churches and opulent squares with sparkling Christmas markets and ice skating rinks look like something out of a fairytale.
You'll get the chance to visit some of these Christmas markets, including the lovely Christindl market in Linz. This historic market will entice you with the aroma of sweet treats, festive music and a sightseeing train that whisks you off to the peaceful, wintry Postlingberg Schlossl restaurant.
Your home for the duration of the cruise will be the lovely A-ROSA DONNA, a well-equipped ship with plenty to keep you entertained as you sail. There's a sauna, gym, spa, sundeck, heated outdoor pool and putting green to enjoy, as well as a restaurant, bar and cafe.
Today you'll fly to Munich and be transferred to Engelhartszell, the departure point for your Danube cruise. You'll board your stylish ship, A-ROSA DONNA, where you'll have time to settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship's facilities.
Later in the evening there'll be welcome drinks, so you can get to know the rest of the group and our tour manager before dinner.
This morning, you will hear the first of the Footage Detectives talk, which will take place in one of the lounges on board.
Today you'll arrive in Vienna, where the fabulous Christmas season will have the city sparkling with quaint Christmas markets where the air smells of cinnamon, mulled wine and sweet treats.
As well as having some time to enjoy the atmosphere of Vienna's festive markets, you will also enjoy a thrilling Third Man excursion, tracing the footsteps of character Harry Lime, portrayed by Orson Welles in the 1949 British film noir.
As you wander through the Old Town of Austria's vibrant capital to see several of the film's locations, you'll also spot top city attractions, such as the Hotel Sacher. Learn about espionage in the city's postwar years and get an insider's look on the attractions that inspired director Carol Reed.
You will also make a final stop at The Third Man museum, rounding off an exciting day.
Today you'll arrive in Slovakia's capital Bratislava, where traces of the Austrian-Hungarian monarchy are still present in the old town. You'll have some time to explore independently and enjoy the christmassy atmosphere of the city during the day.
Later on, look forward to a comprehensive tour of the city. Take the City Express for a leisurely ride to the city's top landmark, Bratislava Castle, where you'll enjoy the view over the old town and a visit of the castle.
This afternoon there will be another Footage Detectives event, partake in a quiz and enjoy a special film screening.
When the sun sets and the Christmas lights illuminate the streets, Bratislava looks even more festive. There are numerous stalls all over the city selling typical specialities, handmade jewellery and much more.
Walk through the Old Town past the beautifully decorated stalls, enjoy a delicious mulled wine and sample some Christmas pastries before returning to the ship for dinner.
This morning, you will have the second installment of the Footage Detectives talk, which will take place in one of the lounges on board.
Get to know the lovely Austrian city of Linz today. There is plenty of culture and many artistic treasures awaiting you here.
At Christmas time, Linz is particularly impressive with its range of postcard-perfect Christmas markets. Get in the mood for Christmas at the Christkindlmarkt and maybe even make a start on your Christmas shopping!
The ship will return to Munich today from where you will be transferred to the airport for your flight home.
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