October 20 - 29, 2024
Hungary | Germany
Danube River Cruise Pilgrimage
Join Fr. Pat Hoare on a beautiful Danube River cruise beginning in Hungary and cruising through the exquisite cities of central Europe, along the borders of Slovakia, Austria, and Germany. Nothing is more beautiful than taking in these historic gems through the eyes of the Faith, which shaped so many of these places. Celebrate daily Mass and visit some of the most beautiful cathedrals and churches along the way, while enjoying the unique tours in each port. Experience the most savory dining and impressive scenery central Europe has to offer as you cruise from city to city.
TOUR INCLUSIONS
• Round trip scheduled air from Charlotte, NC to Budapest, Hungary returning from Munich, Germany
• One pre-night hotel in Budapest, Hungary
• Motorcoach transfers to and from the airport and cruise port
• One complimentary shore excursion through Viking in every port of call
• Complimentary Wi-Fi while on the ship
• Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, including wine and beer while sailing on the ship
• Welcome dinner upon arrival day in Budapest
• Arrangements of Mass and Mass donations at each port
• Port taxes and fees
• European bilingual tour manager dedicated to the group throughout the entire trip, during and after excursions in each port, and available for personalized assistance whenever needed
YOUR TOUR DOES NOT INCLUDE
• Meals not specifically identified.
• Beverages with meals unless specified.
• Tour manager from the USA
• Other personal expenses.
• Items not specifically mentioned above.
• Gratuities to Viking cruise staff and tour manager
ITINERARY
DAY 1: Sunday, October 20 • Depart for Budapest, Hungary
Depart the USA on overnight flights to Budapest, Hungary.
DAY 2: Monday, October 21 • Arrival | Budapest
Upon arrival in Budapest, meet your local Catholic tour manager who will lead the group throughout the cruise. Transfer from the airport to your hotel by private motorcoach. After time to check in and freshen up, stretch your legs with a light walking tour of several city highlights. Enjoy a welcome dinner tonight and overnight in Budapest.
DAY 3: Tuesday, October 22 • Budapest
This morning, check out and walk up to the square of St. Stephen. Celebrate Mass at the Cathedral followed by free time for lunch. Then transfer to the ship for embarkation and a welcome dinner. Continue to enjoy the beauty and vibrant cultural scene in Budapest, with traditional hillside Buda on one side and modern Pest on the other.
DAY 4: Wednesday, October 23 • Budapest
Explore Budapest’s Old Town, a fascinating medieval patchwork of narrow streets and colorful houses. See the Castle District, Fisherman’s Bastion, and the graceful Chain Bridge on the Pest side of the river. The centerpiece of the district is the sprawling Buda Castle. Constructed in the 13th century, this edifice was home to Hungary’s kings for almost 700 years. Celebrate Mass at Matthias Church.
DAY 5: Thursday, October 24 • Bratislava
Today explore the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, filled with restored Baroque city palaces and leafy squares. The Little Carpathians rise steeply in the north and the enormous hrad (or castle) perches 300 feet above the Danube. Below the castle, the Old Town boasts elegant mansions, art nouveau houses and gracious pedestrian zones. Eleven Hungarian kings and eight queens were crowned in St. Martin’s Cathedral, today a concert hall. Celebrate Mass at St. Martin’s.
DAY 6: Friday, October 25 • Vienna
Renowned as the “City of Waltzes,” Austria’s capital city of Vienna is Europe’s center of classical music. Strauss and Mozart composed many of their finest pieces here. Vienna’s musical history is matched by the elegant, graceful architecture, from the Hofburg Palace to the Vienna State Opera. Experience Vienna’s green parks and famed Viennese cafés with coffee and delectable Sachertorte. Celebrate Mass at Stefan’s Dom.
DAY 7: Saturday October 26 • Krems
A small university town at the eastern end of the Danube’s Wachau Valley, Krems is surrounded by terraced vineyards. The city has played a long and celebrated part in the popularity of the Wachau’s wine culture; boasting some of the best Riesling and Veltliner wines in the world. The city’s cobblestone streets, taverns, wine bars and coffeehouses have a timeless appeal. Celebrate Mass at Gottweig Abbey, a Benedictine Abbey which has been active for over 900 years.
DAY 8: Sunday, October 27 • Linz
Linz is today’s provincial capital of Upper Austria, famous for the Linzer Torte, a jam-filled cake topped with almonds. In the Old Town, narrow lanes lead to the Hauptplatz, a town square containing patrician houses, the 17th- century Town Hall and an impressive cathedral. The steepest mountain railway in Europe delivers visitors to Pöstlingberg hill and its 18th-century pilgrimage church. Celebrate Mass at St. Ignatius Church.
DAY 9: Monday, October 28 • Passau
Founded by the Celts more than 2,000 years ago, Passau is one of Bavaria’s oldest cities. Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” it rests at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers. Its past prosperity lives on in graceful arcades, colorful houses with rococo facades and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of Europe’s largest pipe organs. Celebrate Mass at St. Stephen’s.
DAY 10: Tuesday, October 29 • Return to USA
This morning, enjoy breakfast then disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flights home.
Itinerary subject to change
CABIN OPTIONS
Veranda: B*
River-view stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to full-size veranda.
Double Occupancy $6,199
Single Occupancy $10,899
French Balcony: D*
River-view stateroom with French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door).
Double Occupancy $5,699
Single Occupancy $9,899
Standard: F*
The stylish Junior Suites blend contemporary design with antique and art-forward accents.
Double Occupancy $9,399
Single Occupancy $12,899
Deluxe Suite*
River-view stateroom with half-height picture window.
Double Occupancy $4,899
Single Occupancy $8,299
LAND ONLY REDUCTION - $1,100
TRAVEL PROTECTION:
Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) travel protection is highly recommended.
PAYMENT & CANCELLATION TERMS:
Deposit: $1,000 per person due upon registration
Final Payment: Balance due May 20, 2024
Please note late payments will incur a $50 late fee.
All cancellations must be received in writing. Payments are non-refundable and subject to CTS Terms and Conditions, including the CTS Liability Release. CTS reserves the right to cancel any reservation if payments are not made according to the payment schedule. A $25 fee will be added to any reinstated reservation.
ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS? REVIEW OUR FAQs.