An unforgettable journey on the Riverside Mozart

A 7-Day Itinerary from Budapest to Budapest 

The Riverside Mozart, known as one of the most spacious and elegant river cruise ships, offers a boutique-style experience with exceptional service, world-class dining, and daily adventures that capture the essence of the Danube region. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you can expect onboard and ashore on this amazing  voyage. 

After spending our first night at the Hilton Budapest, which is perched in the heart of the Castle District on the Buda side of the river, we were ready to embark on our next adventure. With views of the Danube, the hotel was the perfect place to soak in Budapest's charm before beginning our luxurious river cruise. 

We were collected from the hotel and transferred to the magnificent Riverside Mozart, our home for the next seven nights. This roundtrip itinerary promised to take us through Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, blending stunning river scenery, immersive cultural experiences, and all the indulgences of life onboard a world-class ship. From the grandeur of Budapest and Vienna to the quaint charm of Bratislava and Tulln, offering something different each day. 

We arrived at the Riverside Mozart around and  were escorted to our Riverside suite, 236. 

Our butler and suite steward introduced themselves and showed us around. 

The suite was a haven of comfort and elegance, with thoughtful touches that made us feel at home instantly. The ship itself left a great first impression—light and airy yet inviting, with plush sofas, cozy armchairs, and an understated luxury that felt both indulgent and welcoming. 

At 7 PM, the Riverside Mozart set sail out of Budapest, and all guests were invited to the top deck to take in the magical sights of the city. With blankets to keep us warm, steaming cups of glühwein, and hot roasted chestnuts, we watched in awe as Budapest’s landmarks lit up against the night sky. The Parliament Building, Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle were breathtakingly illuminated, creating a postcard-perfect scene that set the tone for the rest of the journey. 

At around 8 PM we went to the elegant Waterside Restaurant, where we enjoyed a delectable à la carte meal. The menu featured locally inspired dishes alongside international favourites, paired perfectly with regional wines. 

By 9 PM, the ship’s Palm Court came alive with the soothing sounds of the resident piano player. The ambiance was warm and lively, yet intimate—a perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail (or two!) before heading to bed. 

After a restful night in the comfort of our suite on the Riverside Mozart, we woke up to the serene beauty of the Danube River as the ship sailed smoothly towards Bratislava, Slovakia’s captivating capital. 

We began our day with a leisurely breakfast in our suite, savouring freshly baked pastries, made-to-order omelets, As the Riverside Mozart glided along the Danube, we soaked in the picturesque river scenery from the panoramic lounge and sundeck. The view of rolling hills, quaint riverside villages, and lush greenery made for a perfect backdrop to the slow pace of the morning. 

We arrived in Bratislava in the early afternoon, docking just steps away from the city’s historic Old Town.  

From the list of many excursions we chose the ‘Magical Bratislava walking Tour ‘ which was led by a lovely and very enthusiastic local guide. We began at the heart of the city, Main Square. Here, colourful Baroque buildings, lively cafés, and the ornate Roland Fountain set a picturesque scene. As we wandered the cobblestone streets, the guide wove tales of Bratislava’s fascinating history, from its medieval origins to its role as the coronation city for Hungarian kings. 

Highlights of the Walking Tour 

1. St. Martin’s Cathedral
   This Gothic cathedral is Bratislava’s most iconic religious site, where 19 Hungarian kings and queens were crowned. Its towering spire, topped with a gilded replica of the Hungarian crown, dominates the skyline. 

2. Bratislava Castle
   Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube, Bratislava Castle offered breathtaking views of the city, the river, and even neighbouring Austria. Although we didn’t climb the hill during the tour, the sight of the castle’s stark white walls and red-tiled roofs was mesmerizing. 

3. Michael’s Gate
   The last remaining gate of Bratislava’s medieval fortifications, Michael’s Gate is a striking structure that leads into the Old Town.  

4. Quirky Statues
   Bratislava’s Old Town is famous for its whimsical statues that add a playful charm to the city. The most beloved is Cumil the Sewer Worker, a bronze figure poking his head out of a manhole! 

5. The Old Town Hall
   Dating back to the 14th century, the Old Town Hall is a stunning mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. It now houses a museum, but its façade alone is worth admiring. 

After the guided tour, we were given free time to explore the city at our own pace. Bratislava’s compact size makes it perfect for leisurely wandering, and every corner seemed to hold something delightful. Bratislava may not have the grandeur of Vienna or Budapest, but its charm lies in its authenticity and ability to surprise.  

As the afternoon drew to a close, we returned to the Riverside Mozart, where the crew welcomed us with a hot toddy.  The day continued with a Slovak-inspired dinner at the Waterside Restaurant, where we savoured regional specialties paired with local wines. 

After the charm of Bratislava, our third day aboard the luxurious Riverside Mozart brought us to the enchanting Austrian town of Tulln, a destination rich in art, history, and natural beauty. Known as the "Garden City", Tulln offered the perfect opportunity for a leisurely day of exploration at our own pace. 

Docking just steps away from the town centre, made it easy to step ashore and wander this picturesque town on our own, discovering its hidden gems and tranquil ambiance. 

Our first stop was the Egon Schiele Museum, dedicated to the renowned Austrian painter who was born in Tulln.  

From the museum, we strolled into Tulln’s charming Old Town, a maze of cobblestone streets, pastel-coloured buildings, and cozy cafés. The Main Square was the heart of the town, with its striking Trinity Column and vibrant atmosphere. We spent time browsing the local shops that offered everything from handcrafted ceramics to Austrian wines and chocolates.  

As Tulln is famously known as the "Garden City," we couldn’t miss its beautifully curated gardens. We visited a scenic riverside park filled with lush greenery, colourful flower beds, and artistic sculptures. 

In the afternoon, we took a leisurely stroll along the Danube Promenade, a peaceful pathway that runs parallel to the river. 

 We then set sail to Vienna and made our way to dinner. We ate onboard that evening and enjoyed a menu inspired by Austrian cuisine, with dishes such as an irresistible apple strudel for dessert. As always, the dining experience was second to none and each course paired perfectly with regional wines. 

After dinner we found ourselves again in the Palm Court for a cocktail to round up the day!  

By 7:30 pm we had arrived at one of the most elegant and culturally rich cities in Europe: Vienna. Riverside had put on a very special excursion which was open to all guests on board the ship we had the opportunity to visit the Upper Belvedere Palace not only to have a private viewing of the palaces art collection including Gustav Klimts famous ‘The Kiss’ the evening continued with a private concert in one of the palaces grand salons  A local quartet of world-class musicians took the stage, performing a repertoire of classical Viennese music. It was truly amazing and an evening hard to forget. The ship docks in Vienna for the following 2 nights.

The following morning we head into Vienna for our guided tour of the highlights of Vienna  

Our guided tour of Vienna immersed us in its fascinating history and breathtaking architecture. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, we explored some of the city’s most iconic landmarks: 

• The Hofburg Palace: Once the residence of the Habsburg emperors, this sprawling complex is now home to the Austrian president and several museums. We marveled at the Baroque and Gothic architecture while learning about Vienna’s imperial past. 

• St. Stephen’s Cathedral: The Gothic masterpiece at the heart of the city. Its intricate spires, colourful tiled roof, and soaring interior left us in awe. Some adventurous guests climbed the South Tower for panoramic views of Vienna. 

• Ringstrasse Boulevard: A scenic drive along this grand boulevard revealed Vienna’s most significant buildings, including the Vienna State Opera, Parliament, and Burgtheater. 

After the guided tour, we had time to experience Vienna’s legendary coffeehouse culture. We stopped at the historic Café Central, where we enjoyed: 

• A Melange Coffee, Vienna’s signature creamy brew. 

• A slice of Sachertorte, the world-famous chocolate cake served with whipped cream. 

We took the opportunity whilst the ship was quiet to spend the afternoon onboard in the Spa, not only does the ship offer signature treatments and therapies it also has a Steam Room and Sauna, an Indoor equipped with powerful jets that create a steady current. Where you can swim "against the flow" to simulate the sensation of swimming laps in an endless pool of water, a hot tub and a fully equipped Fitness Center: which houses modern equipment, including cardio machines and free weights, which i definitely  needed after the incredible desserts onboard!

After breakfast the following day we boarded a coach to visit Schönbrunn Palace. As we approached the palace, the sight was nothing short of breathtaking. The golden-yellow façade, a hallmark of Baroque grandeur, shimmered in the sunlight, standing as a testament to centuries of Austrian history. Built in the 17th century as a summer residence for the Habsburgs, Schönbrunn is often compared to Versailles in France.

Our visit began with a tour of the Imperial Apartments, where every room told a story of the Habsburgs’ lavish lifestyle and the empire’s history. Highlights included: 

The guide brought the palace’s history to life, recounting tales of political intrigue, family dynamics, and the day-to-day lives of the Habsburgs. After exploring the palace interiors, we ventured into the sprawling Schönbrunn Gardens. This 500-acre masterpiece is a blend of meticulously designed landscapes and natural beauty.. 

As one of Vienna’s crown jewels, Schönbrunn Palace is a must-see for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to experience the magic of Austria’s royal heritage 

The following day we arrived in Estergom and decided to venture on our own and explore this small yet historically significant city in Hungary. Known as the "Cradle of Hungary," Esztergom served as the country’s first capital and remains a cornerstone of its religious and cultural heritage. A visit to this charming city reveals a wealth of history, breathtaking architecture, and serene landscapes. 

Summary of my experience

The Riverside Mozart offers an unforgettable 7-night adventure along the majestic Blue Danube, showcasing the best of Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria. From the moment you embark in Budapest, the experience is marked by luxury, personal service, and a perfect blend of cultural discovery and relaxation. 

Onboard, you are treated to spacious, elegantly designed suites, world-class dining, and exceptional service. From the amazing service at the Palm Court to the indulgent treatments at the ship’s spa, every aspect of life aboard the Riverside Mozart is designed to ensure comfort and enjoyment. 

The itinerary takes you through stunning cities like Bratislava, Vienna, and Esztergom, each offering rich history and unforgettable experiences. Highlights include private views of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, the majestic Esztergom Basilica, and scenic boat rides along the Danube Bend. There are also opportunities for immersive local tours, cultural explorations, and scenic walks through charming towns like Tulln. 

With curated excursions, gourmet dining at the Waterside Restaurant, and relaxed days on the river, the journey on the Riverside Mozart feels like a luxurious blend of adventure and tranquility. From start to finish, the Blue Danube itinerary delivers an exceptional combination of history, art, culture, and relaxation, making it an experience to remember