4Nights

Danube Mini Cruise 2026 - Basic

A woman sits relaxed with a glass of tea in her hand in a cabin on a river cruise ship in front of the French balcony and looks out at the Danube through the open door.
Panoramablick vom Ufer auf die Donau bei Bratislava während des Sonnenuntergangs. Ein Flussschiff fährt vorbei.
The Hofburg in Vienna with its distinctive dome and many people on the square in front.

Highlights of the Danube Cruise

A short trip that will long remain in hearts and minds.

From Passau to Wachau, Vienna, Dürnstein, Melk and Linz to Passau.

In the Schlögener Loop, the Danube makes two spectacular U-turns before finally deciding to take the most beautiful route to Vienna: through the narrow Wachau valley, where castle ruins and icing-sugar monasteries peep out from terraced vineyards and apricot orchards. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the home of great wines and beguilingly beautiful. You’ll be spoiled for choice in Vienna. There’s just so much to see: historical buildings and museums, naturally, but also unexpected delights like a café that sells furniture, crazy second-hand shops and a tiny basement where you can listen to the finest jazz music. Linz will captivate you with its exciting stylistic contrasts, from Baroque to contemporary. Alone the Lentos Art Museum, which features works from the 20th and 21st centuries, and the Ars Electronica Center, with its high-tech exhibits, will keep you busy for hours.

Blick auf ein Dorf in der Wachau mit der Donau, umgeben von grünen Hügeln und Weinbergen, unter bewölktem Himmel.

Wachau

Around 80 kilometres west of Vienna is the Wachau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This valley is lined with steep slopes on which some of Europe’s best grape varieties grow. In the midst of all this, you’ll keep spotting castles, palaces and Romantic ruins on the hills, which bear witness to a distant past. With such an enchanted landscape, it’s not surprising that there are many legends about the Wachau, dealing with both mythical phenomena and real-life events, including the Napoleonic Wars. Authors such as Josef Wichner and Hans Plöckinger published collections of these legends – the ideal thing to read while you are visiting the area.

View of downtown Vienna with the Vienna Prater and a large ferris wheel in the foreground, at sunset.

Vienna

This is a real highlight of your Danube cruise: Vienna, the capital of Austria with that extra-special something. The locals sound as though they are singing when they speak, and it is customary for certain business owners to address their regular customers with their full title. That’s just the way things are done here. With its wealth of museums, galleries, palaces and castles, plus the state opera and many theatres, the city enjoys a lively cultural scene all year-round. The Viennese are proud of their city – and rightly so!

Panoramic view over Linz at sunset. With the roofs and houses of the old town, the towers of the church and the clock tower of the town hall. Wooded hills in the background, the sky is blue with light clouds.

Linz

Baroque facades, numerous churches and, at the centre, the river. As you can see, it’s possible to describe Linz, Austria’s largest port city, in a single sentence. But that would be doing it an injustice, since there’s a whole lot more to Linz than buildings and water. In recent years, this former industrial hub has morphed into a European cultural stronghold. No matter whether it’s theatre, cinema, art or music, there’s both great demand and great support for culture here. The city also provides magnificent views – particularly in the evening – from the pilgrimage church on the Pöstlingberg hill.

Itinerary

Route map Danube Mini cruise with the ports Passau, Linz, Melk, Dürnstein, and Vienna.
Route map Danube Mini cruise with the ports Passau, Linz, Melk, Dürnstein, and Vienna.

Passau is the departure point for your exciting Danube cruise. A university city, it combines old-town charm and ecclesiastical history with a young, modern vibe. As the ship departs, enjoy the thrill of heading off along the Danube for the first time – and look forward to your cruise, with its many experiences, picturesque natural scenery and magnificent towns and cities. Welcome aboard!

Blick auf die Altstadt von Passau mit der Donau, historischen Gebäuden und der barocken Dreifaltigkeitskirche bei klarem Himmel

Wachau

You are about to enjoy a real treat for the senses as you experience the Wachau up close. You will be mesmerised by the famous Danube valley between Melk and Krems. Taking in this fascinating river landscape as you stand on the sun deck of one of the A-ROSA Danube fleet is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is no wonder that the Wachau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This really is an absolute must-see.

View of the ruins of a castle in the green hilly landscape of the Wachau with the Danube in the background under a cloudy sky

Vienna

Arr 02:00 pm Dep 11:59 pm

This is a real highlight of your Danube cruise: Vienna, the capital of Austria with that extra-special something. The locals sound as though they are singing when they speak, and it is customary for certain business owners to address their regular customers with their full title. That’s just the way things are done here. With its wealth of museums, galleries, palaces and castles, plus the state opera and many theatres, the city enjoys a lively cultural scene all year-round. The Viennese are proud of their city – and rightly so!

The Belvedere Palace in Vienna, surrounded by manicured gardens with colorful flowers and a fountain in sunny weather, with baroque architecture and artistic details.

Dürnstein

Arr 07:00 am Dep 12:00 pm

Dürnstein is one of the most famous tourist destinations along the Austrian Danube. Experience how the beauty of the wine terraces meets the tradition of medieval architecture. The English King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in the ruins of Dürnstein Castle in the 12th century - a destination not be missed. 

View of the ruins of Dürnstein castle by the Danube, surrounded by hilly landscape in misty autumn atmosphere with sunlight filtering through tree branches.

Melk

Arr 03:00 pm Dep 09:00 pm

"Gateway to the Wachau": Step into the UNESCO World Heritage Site and admire the Danube valley from above. The town of Melk with its impressive Benedictine monastery sits majestically enthroned on a hill and offers you a breathtaking view. A perfect blend between city and nature.

View of the baroque Melk Abbey in Austria, surrounded by lush greenery and the Danube in the foreground, under a blue sky.

Trips

Discover the unique Wachau with your private English-speaking guide and learn interesting and exciting information about the beautiful landscape and villages. Whether the story of the blue and white baroque church in Dürnstein or everything about the landmark of the Wachau, Melk Abbey. You choose the programme and your tour guide will provide you with anecdotes and facts.

price:

€ 659.00 per Reservation for max. 5 people

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

Can only be booked in combination with a van or car. This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hiking trail along vineyards with a view of the Danube and a riverboat in the Wachau, Austria

Experience the unique Wachau from Dürnstein and Krems to Spitz or Melk. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and the unique region along the banks of the Danube. Your private people carrier will take you from A to B in a very relaxed way. You can also book an expert guide at the same time if you wish.

Our excursion tip: a visit to the majestic Artstetten Castle

price:

€ 759.00 per Reservation for max. 5 people

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Sunrise over the autumnal landscape of the Wachau with a castle ruin on a hill and fog in the valley

Are you travelling as a couple and would like to explore the beautiful Wachau region individually? Then book your private car for up to 2 people and discover the unique region. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

Our excursion tip: a visit to the majestic Artstetten Castle

price:

€ 699.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

A mystical river landscape in the Wachau with hills on the riverbank. At the foot of the hill lies a village and at the top stands a castle. The sun shines over the hills onto the river.

The Benedictine Abbey Melk is not only the landmark of the Wachau, but also one of faith and Austrian history. Since its founding in 1089, it has been continuously inhabited by Benedictine monks. It is regarded as a masterpiece of fusion of art, culture and nature, of faith and science. Enjoy a wonderful view of the Wachau from the 60-metre-high Melk Abbey, before taking a look at the imposing interior with its many baroque rooms.

price:

€ 79.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

View of the baroque Melk Abbey in Austria, surrounded by lush greenery and the Danube in the foreground, under a blue sky.

With the help of some fresh wind on your face, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wachau. Starting in Krems and ending in Melk, you will cycle through quaint streets and idyllic vineyards. Luscious green valleys accompany you throughout the ride. It is best to enjoy the scenery during a short stop in one of the small restaurants along the trail. The 'Steiner Landstraße' - highlight of this cycle tour - is one of Austria's most beautiful roads.

price:

€ 32.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain

level:

Sportlich

Hint:

Distance: approx. 17km

Eine malerische Flusslandschaft in der Wachau mit bewachsenen Hügeln, einem Schloss und einem vorbeifahrenden Flusskreuzfahrtschiff auf der Donau.

Your Danube cruise is the perfect opportunity to get to know the Austrian city of Linz. It offers an exciting mix of cultural attractions and true works of art. You’ll discover a modern, cosmopolitan city whose diversity, design and creativity really make it stand out. And no visit to Linz would be complete without a trip to a cafe to sample its specialities, such as the famous Linzer Torte.

The baroque Trinity Column in Linz on a square surrounded by historic houses at dusk with a cloudy sky.

Today we dock again in Passau. You will return home from the Queen of the Rivers with so many beautiful and wonderful impressions. And if you don't want to leave us quite yet, why not explore the city and region on your last day? You can also extend your cruise in one of our partner hotels. See you soon and ahoy!

Blick auf die Altstadt von Passau mit der Donau, historischen Gebäuden und der barocken Dreifaltigkeitskirche bei klarem Himmel

A-ROSA BASIC

The tariff for flexible (or spontaneous) relaxation. For certain travel dates we offer the "A-ROSA Basic" tariff with a limited contingent at short notice.

The rate A-ROSA Basic incl. Full Board includes the following services:

  • Indulge all day, every day: Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, embarkation refreshment and daily teatime snack (A‑ROSA ALVA, A‑ROSA ALEA and A‑ROSA CLEA: the main courses are served at the table)
  • Special Welcome & Farewell evenings
  • Culinary treats and regional delicacies
  • Kids Club available on family cruises and all year round on the A-ROSA SENA
  • Comprehensive service concept with guest relations management
  • Varied onboard entertainment programme
  • Water dispensers (Except on board A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA)
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Free use of the onboard facilities such as sauna and fitness room

Dates & Prices

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

raus!

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an additional bed, as well as a window, seating options, and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category C cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an open French balcony, as well as seating options and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

raus!

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an additional bed, as well as a window, seating options, and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category C cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an open French balcony, as well as seating options and a desk with a television.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S with an extra bed on the A-ROSA SILVA.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA FLORA and A-ROSA SILVA.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA SILVA with french balcony.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA SILVA with french balcony.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

raus!

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an additional bed, as well as a window, seating options, and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category C cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an open French balcony, as well as seating options and a desk with a television.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S with an extra bed on the A-ROSA SILVA.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA FLORA and A-ROSA SILVA.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA SILVA with french balcony.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA SILVA with french balcony.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

raus!

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an additional bed, as well as a window, seating options, and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category C cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an open French balcony, as well as seating options and a desk with a television.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S with an extra bed on the A-ROSA SILVA.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA FLORA and A-ROSA SILVA.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA SILVA with french balcony.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA SILVA with french balcony.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

raus!

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an additional bed, as well as a window, seating options, and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category C cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an open French balcony, as well as seating options and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on the A-ROSA DONNA with a double bed and window, seating options, a desk and flat-screen TV, with luggage and bathrobes in the cabin.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on the A-ROSA DONNA with a double bed and window, seating options, a desk and flat-screen TV, with luggage and bathrobes in the cabin.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category C cabin on the A-ROSA DONNA with a double bed and an open French balcony, as well as seating options, a desk, and a flat-screen TV, with luggage and bathrobes in the cabin.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

raus!

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category A cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an additional bed, as well as a window, seating options, and a desk with a television.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A category C cabin on a Danube ship with a double bed and an open French balcony, as well as seating options and a desk with a television.