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The Blue Danube - Eastbound
Glide past fairy-tale castles and medieval villages aboard Tauck's Swiss Emerald, Swiss Sapphire, or the new Swiss Jewel on this popular Danube River cruise. Take in views of the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. Enjoy an Imperial evening with dinner and music in Vienna, a wine tasting in Dürnstein, and cultural entertainment aboard your riverboat. Explore Budapest, Vienna, Salzburg, and Prague, plus the castle-studded Wachau Valley, and Schönbrunn Palace. Admire frescoes, stained glass windows, and stunning architecture as you spend two nights each in Budapest and Prague in 5-star hotels, checking out remarkable bridges, cathedrals, museums, and grand Habsburg palaces.
If you’d like to make your European vacation last a little longer, consider a Paris City Extension before your cruise begins, or a Warsaw / Cracow City Extension after your cruise ends.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
2009 Itinerary
Eastbound
Click here for Westbound, Budapest to Prague.• Indicates day of cruising
Day 1: Arrive in Prague
Tour starts at 6:00 p.m. at the Prague Marriott Hotel. A transfer is included from Prague's Ruzyne Airport to the Prague Marriott Hotel. Meet your fellow travelers and Tauck Directors at the welcome reception and dinner and preview your Danube River cruise!
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Prague Marriott Hotel, Prague, Czech Republic
Day 2: Legacy of Prague
Start today's exploration of Prague in the ancient Hradcany (Castle) district, where you'll see Prague Castle's 1,000-year-old complex of palaces, courtyards and gardens; visit the Cathedral of St. Vitus and enjoy an exclusive private tour of Strahov Monastery's grand Baroque libraries. You're free to spend the afternoon as you please in Prague, or join us if you like on a walking tour of Prague’s Old Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to the Astronomical Clock and Tyn Church – along with Charles Bridge and Wenceslas Square.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Prague Marriott Hotel, Prague, Czech Republic
• Day 3: Ancient Regensburg / Danube River cruise begins
Drive to the well-preserved German town of Regensburg. Visit the Steinerne Brücke, a medieval stone bridge over the Danube, and the remains of the town’s Roman wall. Enjoy lunch on your own before boarding the riverboat to launch your Danube River cruise.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Cruising aboard the Riverboat
• Day 4: Spend the day in Passau
Enjoy the views from your riverboat's sun deck, lounge, or the windows of your outside cabin. Your first port of call is Passau, Germany; take a walking tour through the cobblestone streets of this Baroque town renowned for its lovely stained glass. See the Altes Rathaus, the old town hall with 15th-century origins, murals on the façade and a glockenspiel in the tower. Return to the riverboat for lunch as you cruise to Linz, Austria.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Cruising aboard the Riverboat
• Day 5: Salzburg sights or relax in Linz
Choose to enjoy the city of Linz, Austria, or take the full-day excursion to old Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Mozart's hometown. The day trip includes Mirabell Gardens and a guided walking tour through the historic district of ornate church towers and grand palaces. Enjoy Austrian entertainment on board this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Cruising aboard the Riverboat
• Day 6: Wachau Valley cruise and picturesque Dürnstein
Your Danube River cruise continues through the Wachau Valley, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its well-preserved medieval landscapes. Take a walking tour amidst Dürnstein's cobblestone streets, 16th-century houses, and a former Augustinian monastery; see the ruins of a castle where Richard the Lionhearted was held for ransom during the Crusades. Enjoy some free time, and attend a wine tasting at a local winery.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Cruising aboard the Riverboat
• Day 7: Music and more in Imperial Vienna
Get an overview of Vienna, Austria, with a morning sightseeing tour of this historic city that includes the Ringstrasse, the Opera House, City Hall and Parliament. Then choose a tour of Schönbrunn Palace, built to rival Versailles, or a tour of the Imperial Silver Room inside the Hofburg. Tonight, attend a private Imperial Viennese evening at a traditional palace, which features dinner and live Viennese music.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Cruising aboard the Riverboat
• Day 8: Cruise the Danube to ancient Slovakia
Pursue your own interests this morning in Vienna – which boasts over a hundred museums – and then return to the riverboat for a cruise to Slovakia. Admire the scenery and hear a presentation on Slovak culture; enjoy Slovakian folkloric entertainment aboard the riverboat after dinner this evening.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Cruising aboard the Riverboat
• Day 9: Baroque in Bratislava
Wake up today in ancient Bratislava, capital of modern Slovakia – and, strangely enough, the long-ago capital of Hungary. On a guided walking tour you'll view several Baroque palaces, the Opera House, Slovak Philharmonic Hall and St. Martin's Cathedral, and visit the 13th-century Old Town Hall. Explore on your own in the afternoon, and attend the Captain's shipboard farewell reception and dinner tonight.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Cruising aboard the Riverboat
Day 10: Disembark the riverboat and explore Budapest
The Danube River cruise ends this morning in Budapest, Hungary, which is split into the sections of Buda and Pest by the Danube River. On the Buda side, take a walking tour of Castle Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; see Fishermen’s Bastion, with Neo-Romanesque design, admire the stained glass windows in Matthias Church, and view Hungarian and European art in the National Gallery. After lunch at a local café, spend the rest of the day pursuing what interests you most in Budapest. Note: Matthias Church may be closed on some departures due to services.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: InterContinental Budapest*, Hungary
Day 11: Discover the landmarks of Pest
Explore the Pest side of the city, including Heroes’ Square, bounded by some of the finest architectural works in Hungary. Enjoy a special visit to the opulent State Opera House, opened in 1884, with a gilded vaulted ceiling, murals, and a three-ton chandelier. Spend the afternoon exploring Budapest as you wish, perhaps strolling fashionable Váci Utca, one of the city's grandest boulevards. Join us tonight for a farewell dinner as our Danube River cruise adventure draws to a close.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: InterContinental Budapest*, Hungary
Day 12: Homeward bound
Your Danube River cruise ends in Budapest, Hungary. A transfer is included from the InterContinental Budapest to Budapest's Ferihegy Airport. Allow 2 1⁄2 hours for departure flight check-in.
Meals: Breakfast
*Note: August 7 departure (eastbound) will stay at Le Méridien Budapest on nights 10 and 11.
Quiet medieval landscapes and vibrant cities beckon on this Danube River cruise aboard one of Tauck's luxury riverboats – book today!
Prices12 Day Land/Cruise prices aboard MS Swiss Jewel from $4090 plus airfare
Click here for MS Swiss Jewel deck plan and other ship information.
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | Cat. 6 | |||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 4/24/2009 | $4590 | $5426 | $4840 | $6776 | $5440 | $6616 | $5740 | $9184 | $6340 | $10,778 | $7040 | $11,968 |
| 6/12/2009* | $5090 | $7126 | $5340 | $7476 | $5940 | $8316 | $6240 | $9984 | $6840 | $11,628 | $7540 | $12,818 |
| 6/19/2009 | $5090 | $6126 | $5340 | $7476 | $5940 | $7316 | $6240 | $9984 | $6840 | $11,628 | $7540 | $12,818 |
| 9/4/2009* | $5090 | $7126 | $5340 | $7476 | $5940 | $8316 | $6240 | $9984 | $6840 | $11,628 | $7540 | $12,818 |
| 9/11/2009 | $5090 | $7126 | $5340 | $7476 | $5940 | $8316 | $6240 | $9984 | $6840 | $11,628 | $7540 | $12,818 |
| 10/16/2009* | $4290 | $6006 | $4540 | $6356 | $5140 | $7196 | $5440 | $8704 | $6040 | $10,268 | $6740 | $11,458 |
| 10/23/2009 | $4090 | $5726 | $4340 | $6076 | $4940 | $6916 | $5240 | $8384 | $5840 | $9928 | $6540 | $11,118 |
8 Day Cruise Only prices aboard MS Swiss Jewel from $3090 plus airfare
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | Cat. 6 | |||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 4/24/2009 | $3590 | $4026 | $3840 | $5376 | $4440 | $5216 | $4740 | $7584 | $5340 | $9078 | $6040 | $10,268 |
| 6/12/2009* | $4090 | $5726 | $4340 | $6076 | $4940 | $6916 | $5240 | $8384 | $5840 | $9928 | $6540 | $11,118 |
| 6/19/2009 | $4090 | $5726 | $4340 | $6076 | $4940 | $6916 | $5240 | $8384 | $5840 | $9928 | $6540 | $11,118 |
| 9/4/2009* | $4090 | $5726 | $4340 | $6076 | $4940 | $6916 | $5240 | $8384 | $5840 | $9928 | $6540 | $11,118 |
| 9/11/2009 | $4090 | $5726 | $4340 | $6076 | $4940 | $6916 | $5240 | $8384 | $5840 | $9928 | $6540 | $11,118 |
| 10/16/2009* | $3290 | $4606 | $3540 | $4956 | $4140 | $5796 | $4440 | $7104 | $5040 | $8568 | $5740 | $9758 |
| 10/23/2009 | $3090 | $4326 | $3340 | $4676 | $3940 | $5516 | $4240 | $6784 | $4840 | $8228 | $5540 | $9418 |
12 Day Land/Cruise prices aboard MS Swiss Sapphire from $3990 plus airfare
Click here for MS Swiss Sapphire deck plan and other ship information.
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | Cat. 6 | |||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 7/2/2009* | $4290 | $5006 | $4540 | $6356 | $5140 | $6196 | $5440 | $8704 | $6040 | $10,268 | $6740 | $11,458 |
| 7/9/2009 | $4290 | $6006 | $4540 | $6356 | $5140 | $7196 | $5440 | $8704 | $6040 | $10,268 | $6740 | $11,458 |
| 9/10/2009* | $4990 | $6986 | $5240 | $7336 | $5840 | $8176 | $6140 | $9824 | $6740 | $11,458 | $7440 | $12,648 |
| 9/17/2009 | $4990 | $6986 | $5240 | $7336 | $5840 | $8176 | $6140 | $9824 | $6740 | $11,458 | $7440 | $12,648 |
| 10/22/2009* | $3990 | $4586 | $4240 | $5936 | $4840 | $5776 | $5140 | $8224 | $5740 | $9758 | $6440 | $10,948 |
8 Day Land/Cruise prices aboard MS Swiss Sapphire from $2990 plus airfare
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | Cat. 6 | |||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 7/2/2009* | $3290 | $3606 | $3540 | $4956 | $4140 | $4796 | $4440 | $7104 | $5040 | $8568 | $5740 | $9758 |
| 7/9/2009 | $3290 | $4606 | $3540 | $4956 | $4140 | $5796 | $4440 | $7104 | $5040 | $8568 | $5740 | $9758 |
| 9/10/2009* | $3990 | $5586 | $4240 | $5936 | $4840 | $6776 | $5140 | $8224 | $5740 | $9758 | $6440 | $10,948 |
| 9/17/2009 | $3990 | $5586 | $4240 | $5936 | $4840 | $6776 | $5140 | $8224 | $5740 | $9758 | $6440 | $10,948 |
| 10/22/2009* | $2990 | $3186 | $3240 | $4536 | $3840 | $4376 | $4140 | $6624 | $4740 | $8058 | $5440 | $9248 |
12 Day Land/Cruise prices aboard MS Swiss Emerald from $3990 plus airfare
Click here MS Swiss Emerald for deck plan and other ship information.
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | Cat. 6 | |||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 6/5/2009* | $4990 | $6986 | $5240 | $7336 | $5840 | $8176 | $6140 | $9824 | $6740 | $11,458 | $7440 | $12,648 |
| 6/12/2009 | $4990 | $5986 | $5240 | $7336 | $5840 | $7176 | $6140 | $9824 | $6740 | $11,458 | $7440 | $12,648 |
| 6/19/2009* | $4790 | $5706 | $5040 | $7056 | $5640 | $6896 | $5940 | $9504 | $6540 | $11,118 | $7240 | $12,308 |
| 6/26/2009 | $4790 | $6706 | $5040 | $7056 | $5640 | $7896 | $5940 | $9504 | $6540 | $11,118 | $7240 | $12,308 |
| 7/17/2009* | $4190 | $5866 | $4440 | $6216 | $5040 | $7056 | $5340 | $8544 | $5940 | $10,098 | $6640 | $11,288 |
| 7/24/2009 | $4190 | $5866 | $4440 | $6216 | $5040 | $7056 | $5340 | $8544 | $5940 | $10,098 | $6640 | $11,288 |
| 7/31/2009* | $3190 | $4866 | $3440 | $6216 | $4040 | $6056 | $4340 | $8544 | $5940 | $10,098 | $6640 | $11,288 |
| 8/7/2009 | $3190 | $4866 | $3440 | $6216 | $4040 | $6056 | $4340 | $8544 | $5940 | $10,098 | $6640 | $11,288 |
| 10/29/2009* | $3990 | $4586 | $4240 | $5936 | $4840 | $5776 | $5140 | $8224 | $5740 | $9758 | $6440 | $10,948 |
8 Day Cruise-only prices aboard MS Swiss Emerald from $2990 plus airfare
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | Cat. 6 | |||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 6/5/2009* | $3990 | $5586 | $4240 | $5936 | $4840 | $6776 | $5140 | $8224 | $5740 | $9758 | $6440 | $10,948 |
| 6/12/2009 | $3990 | $4586 | $4240 | $5936 | $4840 | $5776 | $5140 | $8224 | $5740 | $9758 | $6440 | $10,948 |
| 6/19/2009* | $3790 | $4306 | $4040 | $5656 | $4640 | $5496 | $4940 | $7904 | $5540 | $9418 | $6240 | $10,608 |
| 6/26/2009 | $3790 | $5306 | $4040 | $5656 | $4640 | $6496 | $4940 | $7904 | $5540 | $9418 | $6240 | $10,608 |
| 7/17/2009* | $3190 | $4466 | $3440 | $4816 | $4040 | $5656 | $4340 | $6944 | $4940 | $8398 | $5640 | $9588 |
| 7/24/2009 | $3190 | $4466 | $3440 | $4816 | $4040 | $5656 | $4340 | $6944 | $4940 | $8398 | $5640 | $9588 |
| 7/31/2009* | $2190 | $3466 | $2440 | $4816 | $3040 | $4656 | $3340 | $6944 | $4940 | $8398 | $5640 | $9588 |
| 8/7/2009 | $2190 | $3466 | $2440 | $4816 | $3040 | $4656 | $3340 | $6944 | $4940 | $8398 | $5640 | $9588 |
| 10/29/2009* | $2990 | $3186 | $3240 | $4536 | $3840 | $4376 | $4140 | $6624 | $4740 | $8058 | $5440 | $9248 |
*Indicates Budapest to Prague itinerary.
Cruise-only tour includes 20 meals. Land / Cruise tour includes 29 meals.
Price Includes Special Singles Savings of $1000 per person, Categories 1 and 3, on Apr 24, Jun 12 & 19, Jul 2 & 31, Aug 7, and Oct 22 & 29 departures!
Price Includes Special Double Cabin Savings of $1000 per person, Categories 1, 2, 3, and 4 double cabins, on Jul 31 and Aug 7 departures!
Tauck Bridges Family Favorite – Cruising the Blue Danube! While children are welcome on all cruises, the Jun 19 and Jul 2 departures are family-friendly. Inquire at time of booking for details!
Land / cruise price per person includes cruise fare, most meals, port charges, wine with dinner aboard ship, shore excursions, applicable fuel surcharges, and gratuities to Tauck Directors, Tauck Cruise Director, ship staff, local guides & drivers, as well as on all included meals.
International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air, in coach or business, for travel originating in the United States (subject to availability).
Itinerary Changes – Although not expected, Tauck reserves the right to alter the sequence of ports or omit or substitute scheduled ports or attractions at any time without prior notice. West and east itineraries are similar. Museums and attractions may be subject to closure due to state, local or religious holidays. This cruise includes a fair amount of walking in each city.
Note: August 7 departure (eastbound) will stay at Le Méridien Budapest on nights 10 and 11; July 31 departure (westbound) will stay at Le Méridien Budapest on nights 1 and 2.
Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before or after your cruise, or about our Cruise Protection Plan.
Prices
The Blue Danube - Westbound
8 Day Cruise-Only prices from $2,590 plus airfare
Click here for 13 day land / cruise pricing.8 Day Cruise-Only prices aboard M/S Swiss Emerald
Click here for deck plan and other ship information.
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | Cat. 6 | |||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 4/07/2007* | $2590 | $3626 | $2840 | $3976 | $3440 | $4816 | $3740 | $5984 | $4340 | $7378 | $4940 | $8398 |
| 4/13/2007 | $2690 | $3766 | $2940 | $4116 | $3540 | $4956 | $3840 | $6144 | $4440 | $7548 | $5040 | $8568 |
| 4/21/2007* | $2990 | $4186 | $3240 | $4536 | $3840 | $5376 | $4140 | $6624 | $4740 | $8058 | $5340 | $9078 |
| 4/27/2007 | $3190 | $4466 | $3440 | $4816 | $4040 | $5656 | $4340 | $6944 | $4940 | $8398 | $5540 | $9418 |
| 5/05/2007* | $3390 | $4746 | $3640 | $5096 | $4240 | $5936 | $4540 | $7264 | $5140 | $8738 | $5740 | $9758 |
| 5/11/2007 | $3390 | $4746 | $3640 | $5096 | $4240 | $5936 | $4540 | $7264 | $5140 | $8738 | $5740 | $9758 |
8 Day Cruise-Only prices aboard M/S Swiss Diamond
Click here for deck plan and other ship information.
| Cat. 1 |
Cat. 2 | Cat. 3 | Cat. 4 | Cat. 5 | ||||||
| Date | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl | Dbl | Sgl |
| 6/03/2007* | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 6/10/2007 | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 6/17/2007* | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 6/24/2007 | $3090 | $4326 | $3440 | $4816 | $4090 | $5726 | $4540 | $7718 | $5190 | $8823 |
| 7/29/2007* | $2590 | $3626 | $2940 | $4116 | $3590 | $5026 | $4040 | $6868 | $4690 | $7973 |
| 8/05/2007 | $2590 | $3626 | $2940 | $4116 | $3590 | $5026 | $5240 | $6868 | $4690 | $7973 |
| 8/12/2007* | $2690 | $3766 | $3040 | $4256 | $3690 | $5166 | $4140 | $7038 | $4790 | $8143 |
| 8/19/2007 | $2790 | $3906 | $3140 | $4396 | $3790 | $5306 | $4240 | $7208 | $4890 | $8313 |
| 8/26/2007* | $2990 | $4186 | $3340 | $4676 | $3990 | $5586 | $4440 | $7548 | $5090 | $8653 |
| 9/02/2007 | $3190 | $4466 | $3540 | $4956 | $4190 | $5866 | $4640 | $7888 | $5290 | $8993 |
| 9/09/2007* | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 9/16/2007 | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 9/23/2007* | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 9/30/2007 | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 10/07/2007* | $3290 | $4606 | $3640 | $5096 | $4290 | $6006 | $4740 | $8058 | $5390 | $9163 |
| 10/14/2007 | $3090 | $4326 | $3440 | $4816 | $4090 | $5726 | $4540 | $7718 | $5190 | $8823 |
| 10/21/2007* | $2790 | $3906 | $3140 | $4396 | $3790 | $5306 | $4240 | $7208 | $4890 | $8313 |
| 10/28/2007 | $2590 | $3626 | $2940 | $4116 | $3590 | $5026 | $4040 | $6868 | $4690 | $7973 |
* Indicates Budapest to Prague direction.
20 meals included.
Cruise price per person, based on double occupancy, includes cruise fare, most meals, port charges, wine with dinner aboard ship, shore excursions, and gratuities to Tauck Directors, Tauck Cruise Director, ship staff, local guides & drivers, as well as on all included meals.
International Airfare is additional. Call Tauck for special rates on international air, in coach or business, for travel originating in the United States (subject to availability).
Itinerary Changes – Although not expected, Tauck reserves the right to alter the sequence of ports or omit or substitute scheduled ports or attractions at any time without prior notice. Note: This cruise includes a fair amount of walking in each city. East and west itineraries are similar; go to www.tauck.com or ask at booking for Budapest to Prague.
Please ask at time of booking about additional hotel nights before or after your cruise, or about our Cruise Protection Plan.
Need to Know
Inclusive Prices
Tour prices are per person in U.S. dollars. All hotel and riverboat accommodations, riverboat and motor coach transportation, port charges, sightseeing, admissions, land excursions, luggage handling, wine with dinner aboard the riverboat, and the services of the Tauck Directors, Tauck Cruise Director, hotel and ship staff, local guides and drivers are included. A representative of Tauck will meet you at Prague Ruzyne Airport and provide you with transportation to the Prague Marriott Hotel, regardless of the date and time of your arrival, provided you have furnished us with accurate flight arrival information at least two weeks prior to the start of your tour. Tauck will also provide you with transportation from the InterContinental Budapest to Budapest Ferihegy International Airport whenever you choose to depart.
Hotel and Riverboat Accommodations - The tour price includes all hotel and riverboat accommodations. The Tauck standard is to provide the best available hotel accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of one hotel may differ slightly from another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels.
The MS Swiss Emerald, the MS Swiss Sapphire, and the MS Swiss Jewel each accommodate only 118 guests. Your well-appointed, outside-facing cabin is equipped with a plasma television, mini-bar, radio, international direct-dial telephone, safe and hair dryer. Your cabin also features adjustable air-conditioning and a private bathroom with shower. Most cabins have two twin beds which do slide together. Triple accommodations are only available in Category 6 on this tour.
Other riverboat facilities include a lounge with a panoramic bar and dance floor, a spacious restaurant that can accommodate all guests in one seating, a large sun deck with deck chairs and a whirlpool, a sauna and solarium, a library, a fitness center and a small boutique.
Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
An ample cold and hot buffet breakfast is served in the spacious restaurant. At lunch, you are presented with a choice of entrée with several courses, or a delicious buffet. Dinner’s choice of entrée is accompanied with an international selection of wines. Please let us know about your special dietary requirements when booking your cruise; vegetarian and special diets are available, however kosher meals cannot be accommodated. We will be pleased to meet your special dietary requirements whenever possible.
The legal drinking age aboard the riverboat is 18 year old.
Tauck Director – The Blue Danube riverboat cruise has one Tauck Director for every 40 guests and one Tauck Cruise Director who will remain with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Directors are professional, fully trained employees of Tauck.
Gratuities Included – All customary gratuities for the hotel and ship staff, local guides, drivers, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director are included.
No Options Sold - Your Tauck Directors will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but they will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
Hotel and Riverboat Accommodations - The tour price includes all hotel and riverboat accommodations. The Tauck standard is to provide the best available hotel accommodations without sacrificing value. Although the quality of one hotel may differ slightly from another, our commitment to your comfort is unwavering. Two-bedded rooms are reserved in most hotels.
The MS Swiss Emerald, the MS Swiss Sapphire, and the MS Swiss Jewel each accommodate only 118 guests. Your well-appointed, outside-facing cabin is equipped with a plasma television, mini-bar, radio, international direct-dial telephone, safe and hair dryer. Your cabin also features adjustable air-conditioning and a private bathroom with shower. Most cabins have two twin beds which do slide together. Triple accommodations are only available in Category 6 on this tour.
Other riverboat facilities include a lounge with a panoramic bar and dance floor, a spacious restaurant that can accommodate all guests in one seating, a large sun deck with deck chairs and a whirlpool, a sauna and solarium, a library, a fitness center and a small boutique.
Meals – Most meals are included as specified in the itinerary.
An ample cold and hot buffet breakfast is served in the spacious restaurant. At lunch, you are presented with a choice of entrée with several courses, or a delicious buffet. Dinner’s choice of entrée is accompanied with an international selection of wines. Please let us know about your special dietary requirements when booking your cruise; vegetarian and special diets are available, however kosher meals cannot be accommodated. We will be pleased to meet your special dietary requirements whenever possible.
The legal drinking age aboard the riverboat is 18 year old.
Tauck Director – The Blue Danube riverboat cruise has one Tauck Director for every 40 guests and one Tauck Cruise Director who will remain with the group throughout the tour. Your Tauck Directors are professional, fully trained employees of Tauck.
Gratuities Included – All customary gratuities for the hotel and ship staff, local guides, drivers, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director are included.
No Options Sold - Your Tauck Directors will assist you with information on free-time activities based on honest opinion and guidance, but they will not sell you anything. This means better value and a more relaxed and pleasant experience for you.
Not Included
Airfare to the tour departure point and from the tour ending point is not included. Airfare may be purchased from Tauck for travel originating in the United States.
Hotel Rooms Before and After Tours – To avoid jet lag and possible flight delays, you may wish to make hotel arrangements for the nights preceding or following your tour. As a service, Tauck will book additional nights for you on a space-available basis using special rates only available through Tauck. Hotel room charges will be added to the tour cost. If you wish to spend additional nights, please consult the Extend This Journey section on this website and discuss it with the reservations agent when you book your tour.
Luggage Responsibility – Although every effort is made to handle your luggage carefully, we cannot be responsible, assume liability or accept claims for loss or damage to luggage and personal effects due to breakage, theft, or fair wear and tear through hotel, airline and group carrier handling. It is important for your own self-interest and protection that you make certain you have adequate insurance to cover these eventualities. Please refer to the Tauck Protection Plan for more information.
Personal Expenses – Phone calls, alcoholic and bar beverages not included with meals, laundry and dry cleaning, airline excess luggage charges, vaccinations, transfers to and from railway stations, visa fees, airport and departure taxes, and other optional or incidental extras are not included and may be significant.
Additional Information
Airline Security Measures ― In the U.S., you must provide identification in the form of a passport at the time of airport check-in for travel to international destinations. Your passport name must match the name on your tour reservation and airline ticket or you may be denied boarding.
If you are traveling from an airport outside the jurisdiction of the U.S, you will need to determine what travel documentation and identification is required for that particular airport.
Due to heightened security regulations, certain items such as a metal nail file, pocketknife, cigarette lighter, or tweezers, and some liquid, gel, or aerosol items may not be permitted in your carry-on luggage. Please call your airline prior to departure to obtain current information on non-permissible carry-on items, and recommended airport check-in times.
You may also visit the U.S. Transportation Security Administration Internet website to obtain more information on acceptable identity documentation and prohibited luggage items by clicking here.
Air Services – Airfare may be purchased through Tauck for travel originating in the United States. By using Tauck's air services, you agree that Tauck, in purchasing, selling or otherwise arranging air transportation, is acting only as your agent and is not liable or responsible for any accident, death, personal injury, illness, property damage, delay or other loss or expense of any nature whatsoever arising directly or indirectly out of any act of God, or any actions or omissions (including any failure to provide services) or default of, any carrier. All carriers are independent contractors and are not owned, managed, controlled or operated by Tauck. Your airline ticket constitutes a contract between yourself and the airline (and not Tauck), even if purchased through Tauck. Tauck is not liable for, and does not assume responsibility or accept claims with regard to, seat assignments, schedule changes, flight changes, cancellations, claims for a refund or reimbursement of airline ticket fees, or any other loss incurred by you for any reason whatsoever (including, without limitation to, bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization or similar relief from creditors). Tauck must handle ticketing for Tauck's special fares, which are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed until reserved. Special fares cannot be combined with any other promotional offer. Tauck's air services can only be purchased in conjunction with a Tauck tour. Tickets or e-ticket numbers will be mailed with final documents. If you cancel or change your air before or after departure, all airline cancellation and change fees will apply.
Cruise Regulations – International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to Tauck prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to Tauck as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied.
Holiday and Museum Closures – Museum visits and personal shopping time may be disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances or the many religious, state and local holidays locally observed.
Itinerary Changes and Price Flexibility – Tauck pledges to make every effort to operate your tour as advertised. Tauck reserves the right to alter or curtail the itinerary, or substitute sightseeing, hotels, and/or conveyances as deemed necessary. Any savings realized by these changes will be refunded to you. Any resultant added expense will be covered by Tauck. Although not expected, prices on this website may be modified due to unexpected significant external factors not forecast at the time of publication.
Journey Start and End Times are provided at the time of booking. The tour begins at 6:00 PM at the Prague Marriott Hotel. You or your booking agent will be advised of any change to this schedule. When making flight arrangements, please allow for sufficient time to claim your luggage and clear customs in order to join the tour on time. The tour ends when you check out of the InterContinental Budapest on the last day of the tour. When departing from Budapest, we suggest that you allow at least 2½ hours for flight check-in.
Membership will be granted to all persons. Tauck reserves the right to terminate the tour of any persons who are abusive of others or whose behavior disrupts the tour.
Photography on Tour – Occasionally, Tauck will use photographs taken by fellow guests or your Tauck Director on your tour for promotional purposes. If you prefer that your photo not be used in any marketing activities, please notify your Tauck Director at the start of your tour.
Preparing to Go
Air Conditioning – All motor coaches and riverboats are air conditioned for your comfort. Several restaurants we use throughout the itinerary are not air-conditioned due to the historic significance of the buildings.
ATM and Credit Cards - We recommend that you contact your bank in advance of departing on your journey to determine whether you will be able to use your ATM and credit cards while traveling. When contacting your bank, notify them of your travel dates so that they will anticipate charges being made outside of your hometown and do not suspend your cards for what may appear to them to be “suspicious” charges. We also recommend that you make a photocopy of the front and back of your ATM and credit cards to leave behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Clothing and Packing – Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is always advisable. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps. For the welcome reception and the farewell dinner you may wish to dress up a bit – jacket and tie for men, casually-elegant attire for ladies.
Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each guest room at the hotels and in each cabin on board the riverboat.
The riverboat provides limited valet laundry services and no dry cleaning. Ironing facilities are available.
We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor’s prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.
We recommend you pack the following items for your cruise on the Danube:
- Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard
- Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for onshore
- Jacket and tie for men
- Casually-elegant outfit for ladies
- Short and long-sleeved cotton shirts
- Shorts, slacks and jeans
- Tee shirts
- Socks
- Light sweater (summer), medium-weight sweater (fall)
- Light jacket (summer), medium-weight jacket (fall)
- Raincoat and rain hat
- Lightweight gloves
- Collapsible umbrella
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Sun hat
- Insect repellent
- Camera, lenses, batteries and plenty of film
- Binoculars
- Daypack for camera equipment
- Travel clock with alarm
- Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your cabin while traveling
Elevation - The maximum elevation on this tour is 1,200 ft (366 m).
Health – While a cruise on the Danube is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.
Your riverboat has four decks: Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, and Sun. The elevator runs between the Diamond and Ruby decks only and does not go up to the Emerald or Sun decks. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.
Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor on board. In case of emergency we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.
We regret that we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or scooters on this cruise. We also cannot provide you with individual assistance for walking, dining or other personal needs. If you need such assistance, you must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist you.
On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.
Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
The government of the Czech Republic will not allow entry or issue visas to non-insured persons. In order to obtain a Czech Republic visa, you must state that you are insured on the visa application. You do not have show proof when you apply but you must be prepared to show proof if asked by a Czech immigration official. If you do not already have health insurance, you will need to purchase a retail insurance plan. Tauck offers insurance that is considered sufficient for this purpose. You may view details of this offer by clicking here.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and inform us at time of booking.
If you are a U.S citizen, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia or Hungary. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour, prerecorded "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 877-394-8747 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC Internet website by clicking here.
If you are a citizen of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries visited on this tour to determine whether vaccinations are required for your travel.
Luggage Restrictions –
Checked Luggage ― General
While it is common for airlines to allow passengers to check more than one piece of luggage per person, space constraints during your Tauck journey make it difficult to accommodate extra luggage. We request that you limit your checked luggage to one average size suitcase per person.
In addition, airlines have adopted more strict policies in enforcing number, size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.
Many carriers require checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, Tauck cannot be held liable to the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current number, weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage number, weight and size may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers.
Tauck World Discovery cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage number, weight and size policies.
Carry-on Luggage ― General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not allow for access during daytime travel.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Travel Document Requirements – You will need a valid passport or similar acceptable travel document to enter each of the countries visited on this tour.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you are not required to obtain a visa to enter any of the countries visited for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.
If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries visited to determine what travel documentation is required.
The government of the Czech Republic will not allow entry or issue visas to non-insured persons. In order to obtain a Czech Republic visa, you must state that you are insured on the visa application. You will need to show proof when you enter the Czech Republic if asked by a Czech immigration official. If you do not already have health insurance, you will need to purchase a retail insurance plan. Tauck offers supplemental coverage that is considered sufficient for this purpose. You may view details of this offer by clicking here.
If you are a Canadian citizen, you are now required to obtain a visa to enter the Czech Republic. Please contact the Canadian embassy or a consulate of the Czech Republic to determine how you can obtain a visa prior to your departure as it cannot be secured at the border.
We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. In addition, we recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as both sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your cabin while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Travel with Children –
Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, for each itinerary we have a minimum recommended age to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting ― Tauck journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. However, our guests have occasionally inquired about babysitting services. If you are interested, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements, to ensure your precise needs are met. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer babysitting services that may be arranged on site; however, babysitting services are not guaranteed at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with Tauck, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Health – While a cruise on the Danube is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.
Your riverboat has four decks: Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, and Sun. The elevator runs between the Diamond and Ruby decks only and does not go up to the Emerald or Sun decks. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.
Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor on board. In case of emergency we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.
We regret that we cannot accommodate wheelchairs or scooters on this cruise. We also cannot provide you with individual assistance for walking, dining or other personal needs. If you need such assistance, you must be accompanied by an able companion who will assist you.
On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.
Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.
The government of the Czech Republic will not allow entry or issue visas to non-insured persons. In order to obtain a Czech Republic visa, you must state that you are insured on the visa application. You do not have show proof when you apply but you must be prepared to show proof if asked by a Czech immigration official. If you do not already have health insurance, you will need to purchase a retail insurance plan. Tauck offers insurance that is considered sufficient for this purpose. You may view details of this offer by clicking here.
If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and inform us at time of booking.
If you are a U.S citizen, no vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia or Hungary. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour, prerecorded "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 877-394-8747 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC Internet website by clicking here.
If you are a citizen of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries visited on this tour to determine whether vaccinations are required for your travel.
Luggage Restrictions –
Checked Luggage ― General
While it is common for airlines to allow passengers to check more than one piece of luggage per person, space constraints during your Tauck journey make it difficult to accommodate extra luggage. We request that you limit your checked luggage to one average size suitcase per person.
In addition, airlines have adopted more strict policies in enforcing number, size and weight limits. Luggage exceeding maximum restrictions may require expensive overage fees, frustrating and hurried re-packing at the ticket counter, or even risk being left behind.
Many carriers require checked luggage not exceed a weight of 50 lbs (22.7 kg) per piece. Airlines revise luggage policies frequently and often without notice; therefore, Tauck cannot be held liable to the weight limit listed above. We urge you to check with your airline before traveling to determine current number, weight and size restrictions. It is also important to note that restrictions for luggage number, weight and size may vary with the same airline based on the class of service you select. First and Business Class ticket holders may have different restrictions than Coach Class travelers.
Tauck World Discovery cannot be held liable for additional fees or inconveniences imposed by the airline due to luggage number, weight and size policies.
Carry-on Luggage ― General
Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.
For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not allow for access during daytime travel.
Please be sure to attach your Tauck luggage tag to your suitcase before leaving home!
Travel Document Requirements – You will need a valid passport or similar acceptable travel document to enter each of the countries visited on this tour.
If you are a U.S. citizen, you are not required to obtain a visa to enter any of the countries visited for the short duration of this tour. Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.
If you are a citizen of another country, you should contact an embassy or consulate of each of the countries visited to determine what travel documentation is required.
The government of the Czech Republic will not allow entry or issue visas to non-insured persons. In order to obtain a Czech Republic visa, you must state that you are insured on the visa application. You will need to show proof when you enter the Czech Republic if asked by a Czech immigration official. If you do not already have health insurance, you will need to purchase a retail insurance plan. Tauck offers supplemental coverage that is considered sufficient for this purpose. You may view details of this offer by clicking here.
If you are a Canadian citizen, you are now required to obtain a visa to enter the Czech Republic. Please contact the Canadian embassy or a consulate of the Czech Republic to determine how you can obtain a visa prior to your departure as it cannot be secured at the border.
We strongly recommend that your passport be valid for six months beyond the completion of your tour. In addition, we recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship, as well as both sides of your driver’s license. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your cabin while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.
Travel with Children –
Age Recommendations ― Children 5 years of age or older at the time of travel are welcome on this Tauck journey. Based upon our experience with family travelers, for each itinerary we have a minimum recommended age to encourage comfort and enjoyment for all of our guests. All children must be accompanied on activities by a parent or guardian. At least one guest in the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older in order to make a reservation.
Babysitting ― Tauck journeys are designed for adults and children to share the wonder of discovery together. However, our guests have occasionally inquired about babysitting services. If you are interested, your Tauck Director will put you in contact with the appropriate hotel staff with whom you may make babysitting arrangements, to ensure your precise needs are met. There is usually an additional fee for these services. Many hotels do offer babysitting services that may be arranged on site; however, babysitting services are not guaranteed at all of our hotels. Please note that our Tauck Directors are not responsible for providing babysitting services.
Safety and Welfare Responsibility ― We welcome the participation of child travelers on our exciting excursions. If you are traveling with a child on a Tauck journey, you have the sole responsibility for ensuring that that the child with whom you are traveling follows all rules of safety throughout the tour. By traveling with Tauck, you release Tauck, Inc. and our partners of all liability for any risks and/or injuries to the child with whom you are traveling.
Special Travel Documentation for Children
Authorization for Travel
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so.
If you travel into or out of the U.S. with children under the age of 18, you should be aware of the following: because of increasing incidents of child abductions in disputed custody cases and because children are at risk as possible victims of child pornography, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) strongly recommends that unless the child is accompanied by both parents, you should have a note from the child's other parent (or, in the case of a child traveling with grandparents, uncles or aunts, sisters or brothers, or friends, a note signed by both parents) stating that the parent(s) not traveling acknowledge that the parent(s), family members, etc. who are traveling into or out of the U.S. with the child have permission to do so.
CBP also suggests that this note be notarized. While CBP may not ask to see this documentation, if they do ask, and you do not have it, you may be detained until the circumstances of the child traveling without both parents can be fully assessed.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.) any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., will be useful.
All children who are U.S. citizens should also have a certified copy of their birth certificate or baptism record for ID. Children over the age of 14 are also required to have a photo ID.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, Tauck requires all guests to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information is available from each country’s consulate.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
If there is no second parent with legal claims to the child (deceased, sole custody, etc.) any other relevant paperwork, such as a court decision, birth certificate naming only one parent, death certificate, etc., will be useful.
All children who are U.S. citizens should also have a certified copy of their birth certificate or baptism record for ID. Children over the age of 14 are also required to have a photo ID.
Many other countries also share this concern for children who travel without both parents. To ensure smooth travel, Tauck requires all guests to comply with the travel regulations of each country visited. This information is available from each country’s consulate.
Authorization for Emergency Medical Treatment
In the unlikely event of a medical emergency, a medical facility will require permission from the child’s parents to provide treatment. Therefore, we strongly suggest that you bring along a letter from both parents authorizing emergency medical treatment for their child.
Tauck is not responsible for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for any travelers, including children traveling without both parents. While there is no definitive format or standard for these letters, click here to view a sample letter for guardians or one parent traveling with a child.
Destination Information
Cell Phones - We understand and appreciate the value of instant communication when we travel; it keeps us in touch with friends and family, and it's a reassurance in the event of an emergency. However, the use of cell phones can be disruptive to a tour and to other guests who are enjoying their vacation. As a courtesy to others, we ask that you refrain from using your cell phone during motor coach travel, group functions, when sightseeing and when the Tauck Director is addressing the group as a whole. There are usually many opportunities to make or receive calls at times when it does not affect others.
Please contact your cell phone carrier to determine whether your cell phone service extends to the countries on the upper Danube.
Currency and Exchange Rates - Although it is not necessary for you to exchange money prior to your trip, it may be useful to have a small amount of local currency with you when sightseeing. If upon arrival you require local currency, you can visit one of the many currency exchange facilities at the airport or use an ATM. Currency can also be exchanged at the hotels in Prague and Budapest. The riverboat does not exchange currency, but does accept Euro, American Express, MasterCard and Visa as methods of settling shipboard accounts.
In those countries which are now using the Euro as the official currency – Germany and Austria - major credit cards and travelers’ checks are widely accepted, and ATMs are found in most tourist venues. In those countries which do not use the Euro – The Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary – credit cards and travelers’ checks are not widely accepted, fees are often charged for currency exchange, and ATMs are often not found outside of main cities. In these countries, paying cash for purchases in the local currency – and often in U.S. dollars – is preferable.
The official currency of each country and its corresponding universal currency code is listed below:
- Hungary - Forint (HUF)
- Slovak Republic - Koruna (SKK)
- Czech Republic - Czech Koruna (CZK)
- Austria - Euro (EUR)
- Germany - Euro (EUR)
To obtain the most current exchange rate, you may want to check your local newspaper or log on to the Internet website, oanda.com, by clicking here.
Customs and Tax-Free Shopping – Each country visited has its own Customs clearing process. You should familiarize yourself with each country’s specific required declarations before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries.
Customs and Tax-Free Shopping – Each country visited has its own Customs clearing process. You should familiarize yourself with each country’s specific required declarations before you travel. In general, you are not permitted to bring live plants, fresh fruits and other produce items into most countries.
- Czech Republic – VisaHQ.com
- Austria – VisaHQ.com
- Slovak Republic – VisaHQ.com
- Hungary – VisaHQ.com
- Germany – VisaHQ.com
If you are a U.S resident who will be returning to the U.S. at the end of the tour, current regulations permit bringing back $800 worth of items duty-free, as long as you physically bring them with you. There are limits to the amount of alcohol that can be a part of this exemption. Certain restrictions apply to unaccompanied goods mailed from abroad to the United States. Please call your local customs office or consult the U.S. government's customs regulations as contained in their publication entitled Know Before You Go.
If you are a resident of another country, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
If you are a resident of another country, please refer to your own country’s rules and regulations regarding customs and duty-free shopping to ensure compliance upon your return.
Each of the countries visited levies a Value Added Tax (VAT) on most consumer goods and services.
- Czech Republic - 19%
- Austria - 20%
- Slovak Republic - 19%
- Hungary - 25%
In lieu of a VAT, Germany has an Import Turnover Tax of 17% levied on most consumer goods and services.
The tax may be higher on luxury items and lower on basic goods. As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country in which the purchase is made, you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.
Electrical Current – All hotel and riverboat guest rooms are equipped with 220 V, 50 Hz, alternating electrical current that accommodates standard European plugs with two round prongs. However, the riverboat cabins are also equipped with a 110 V outlet for shavers. If you bring an electrical device that is not compatible, you should bring the appropriate adapters and converters.
Internet Access is available as indicated below:
Prague Marriott - High-speed wireless access for a fee
InterContinentaly Budapest – High-speed, wireless access in Business Center and public areas for a fee
The tax may be higher on luxury items and lower on basic goods. As a rule, if you are not a resident of the country in which the purchase is made, you may be entitled to a VAT refund and should inquire about the refund policy where you shop.
Electrical Current – All hotel and riverboat guest rooms are equipped with 220 V, 50 Hz, alternating electrical current that accommodates standard European plugs with two round prongs. However, the riverboat cabins are also equipped with a 110 V outlet for shavers. If you bring an electrical device that is not compatible, you should bring the appropriate adapters and converters.
Internet Access is available as indicated below:
Prague Marriott - High-speed wireless access for a fee
InterContinentaly Budapest – High-speed, wireless access in Business Center and public areas for a fee
Riverboats - Free Wi-Fi access is available all over the ship; a stationary computer is located in the lido bar. Please be advised that the accessibility is through cellular service and maybe spotty at times due to the ship’s location on the river. Internet connectivity recommendations and sign-up sheets for the stationary computer are available on board. You may bring your own laptop aboard the riverboats but you should be aware of the challenges with internet access on the rivers.
Time Zones – All the countries visited on this tour are 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From late March through October, these locations switch to Daylight Savings Time and are 2 hours ahead.
To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.
Weather – The climate along the Danube River is temperate and unpredictable. From June through August, the average high temperatures increase as you travel east along the river and range from 69 to 79°F (21 to 26°C) and the average low temperatures range from 51 to 59°F (11 to 15°C). Rainfall amounts in this region remain fairly constant throughout the year, although late spring and early summer are generally the wettest seasons of the year. Opposite of temperature, rainfall decreases as you travel east.
Time Zones – All the countries visited on this tour are 1 hour ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (or Greenwich Mean Time). From late March through October, these locations switch to Daylight Savings Time and are 2 hours ahead.
To determine current time in major cities around the world, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, timeanddate.com, by clicking here.
Weather – The climate along the Danube River is temperate and unpredictable. From June through August, the average high temperatures increase as you travel east along the river and range from 69 to 79°F (21 to 26°C) and the average low temperatures range from 51 to 59°F (11 to 15°C). Rainfall amounts in this region remain fairly constant throughout the year, although late spring and early summer are generally the wettest seasons of the year. Opposite of temperature, rainfall decreases as you travel east.
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Average Temperature
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Prague, Czech Republic
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Salzburg, Austria
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Month
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Hi/Lo ºF
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Hi/Lo ºC
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Hi/Lo ºF
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Hi/Lo ºC
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January
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34 / 24
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1 / -4
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36 / 24
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2 / -4
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February
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36 / 25
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2 / -4
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38 / 25
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3 / -4
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March
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46 / 32
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8 / 0
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48 / 32
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9 / 0
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April
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54 / 36
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12 / 2
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56 / 39
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13 / 4
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May
|
64 / 45
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18 / 7
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66 / 47
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19 / 8
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June
|
69 / 51
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21 / 11
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71 / 51
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22 / 11
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July
|
72 / 54
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22 / 12
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73 / 55
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23 / 13
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August
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73 / 53
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23 / 12
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73 / 55
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23 / 13
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September
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65 / 48
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18 / 9
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68 / 50
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20 / 10
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October
|
54 / 39
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12 / 4
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57 / 41
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15 / 5
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November
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41 / 32
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5 / 0
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45 / 33
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7 / 1
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December
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36 / 28
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2 / -2
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37 / 26
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3 / -3
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|
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Vienna, Austria
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Budapest, Hungary
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Month
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Hi/Lo ºF
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Hi/Lo ºC
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Hi/Lo ºF
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Hi/Lo ºC
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January
|
39 / 27
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2 / -3
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34 / 24
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1 / -4
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February
|
39 / 28
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4 / -2
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40 / 28
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4 / -2
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March
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49 / 35
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9 / 2
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50 / 35
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10 / 2
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April
|
57 / 41
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14 / 5
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61 / 43
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16 / 6
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May
|
67 / 49
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19 / 9
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70 / 51
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21 / 11
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June
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72 / 55
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22 / 13
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75 / 57
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24 / 14
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July
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77 / 59
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25 / 15
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79 / 59
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26 / 15
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August
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77 / 59
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25 / 15
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78 / 58
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26 / 14
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September
|
69 / 53
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21 / 12
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71 / 52
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22 / 11
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October
|
57 / 43
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14 / 6
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61 / 44
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16 / 7
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November
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44 / 35
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7 / 2
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46 / 35
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8 / 2
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December
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39 / 30
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4 / -1
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37 / 28
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3 / -2
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Average Rainfall
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Prague, Czech Republic
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Salzburg, Austria
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Month
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Inches
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Millimeters
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Inches
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Millimeters
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January
|
2.7
|
69
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1.8
|
46
|
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February
|
1.9
|
48
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1.5
|
38
|
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March
|
2.6
|
66
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1.8
|
46
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April
|
2.1
|
53
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1.9
|
48
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May
|
2.4
|
61
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2.5
|
64
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June
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2.8
|
71
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3.0
|
76
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July
|
3.0
|
76
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2.7
|
69
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August
|
2.8
|
71
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2.6
|
66
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September
|
2.6
|
66
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2.0
|
51
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October
|
2.9
|
74
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1.8
|
46
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November
|
3.2
|
81
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1.7
|
43
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|
December
|
3.3
|
84
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2.1
|
53
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Vienna, Austria
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Budapest, Hungary
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Month
|
Inches
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Millimeters
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Inches
|
Millimeters
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January
|
1.5
|
38
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1.3
|
33
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|
February
|
1.7
|
43
|
1.2
|
30
|
|
March
|
1.6
|
41
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1.1
|
28
|
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April
|
2.0
|
51
|
1.5
|
38
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May
|
2.4
|
61
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2.2
|
56
|
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June
|
2.9
|
74
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2.5
|
64
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July
|
2.5
|
64
|
2.1
|
53
|
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August
|
2.3
|
58
|
2.0
|
51
|
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September
|
1.8
|
46
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1.6
|
41
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October
|
1.6
|
41
|
1.3
|
33
|
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November
|
2.0
|
51
|
2.1
|
53
|
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December
|
1.7
|
43
|
1.6
|
41
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To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website weather.com by clicking here.
If You Have to Cancel
Cancellation Fees – Regardless of reason, cancellations of confirmed bookings result in Tauck incurring costly penalties and cancellation fees from our travel and hotel providers. Therefore, if you have to cancel a confirmed booking, Tauck will charge you a cancellation fee according to when your cancellation notice is received in its Norwalk, CT office. To help limit your liability, Tauck offers a Tauck Protection Plan.
If you choose to purchase Tauck’s Guest Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, you will have your cancellation penalties reduced. Click here for more information.
If you choose not to purchase Tauck’s Guest Protection or Cancellation Fee Waiver, you will incur cancellation penalties per person as follows:
60 days or more before departure
$600 per person (the amount of the deposit)
59-30 days before departure
50% of the cost of the tour per person
29-1 days before departure
100% of the cost of the tour per person
$600 per person (the amount of the deposit)
59-30 days before departure
50% of the cost of the tour per person
29-1 days before departure
100% of the cost of the tour per person