Cruise the Heart of Europe: Journey along the Rhine, Main and Danube

14 nights - 18 May 2026

MS George Eliot| Europe

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(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

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Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

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RIVER VOYAGES DIFFERENCE

Our sister brand RiverVoyages is Europe’s leading expert in river cruise holidays. Click here to view this itinerary in full and speak to our team of river cruise specialists, here to help you plan your perfect cruise along the world’s most scenic waterways. With access to exclusive offers and savings, we’re ready to help you plan every detail of your next river cruise holiday.

Itinerary

List Timeline

Cologne

Arrival in Cologne - On arrival, the dedicated English-speaking crew will welcome you aboard your first-class floating hotel, ensuring you settle into your luxurious and well-equipped cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.

Day 1

18 May 2026

Cologne

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Day 2

19 May 2026

Koblenz

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Day 3

20 May 2026

Rüdesheim

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Day 4

21 May 2026

Mainz

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Day 5

22 May 2026

Miltenberg

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Day 6

23 May 2026

Würzburg

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Day 7

24 May 2026

Bamberg

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Day 8

25 May 2026

Nuremberg

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Day 9

26 May 2026

Kelheim

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Day 10

27 May 2026

Passau

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Day 11

28 May 2026

Melk

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Day 12

29 May 2026

Vienna

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Day 13

30 May 2026

Bratislava

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Day 14

31 May 2026

Budapest

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Day 15

01 June 2026

Budapest

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Koblenz

Rüdesheim

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim - Today you experience one of the real highlights of your cruise – the passage through the Rhine Gorge. Here the river narrows, the current is swifter and the towering valley sides soar 600 feet, while the ruins of castles, which once held sway over passing mariners... Read More

Mainz

Miltenberg

Würzburg

Würzburg - Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning as we glide towards Würzburg, situated at the head of Germany’s Romantic Road, so called because of its spellbinding procession of captivating scenery, medieval towns, lofty castles and grand palaces.Würzburg is best explored by foot, a... Read More

Bamberg

Bamberg - Another day dawns and this morning is free to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities while admiring the magnificent undulating landscape. The foredeck features exquisite outdoor furnishing and there’s nothing quite as refreshing as the gentle breeze as we progress along the serene... Read More

Nuremberg

Kelheim

Regensburg - One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation, so this morning, after a leisurely breakfast, perhaps catch up on some reading or simply watch the world float by as we cruise along the Main–Danube Canal to Kelheim, where we join the Danube River.Bef... Read More

Passau

Passau - Another day dawns as our journey brings us to Passau, the last town we stop at in Germany, nestling where the Inn and Ilz Rivers join the Danube.After breakfast take the opportunity to explore the ‘Three Rivers City’, overlooked by the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fort... Read More

Melk

Melk - On a striking rocky bluff above the town of Melk is the enormous Benedictine Abbey, which we visit this morning. This extraordinary building was originally a castle that was subsequently bequeathed to the Benedictine order during the 11th century and has been a monastery ever since.... Read More

Vienna

Bratislava

Bratislava - This morning we explore Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, which has shrugged off the greyness of the communist era and rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its painstakingly restored Baroque Old Town.Wander the winding streets to the main square where you’ll find th... Read More

Budapest

*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

18 May 2026

Cologne

19 May 2026

Koblenz

Koblenz & Boppard - The first morning on a river cruise is always a thrill as you awake to the gentle lapping of the water and the colourful valley sides slipping effortlessly past your cabin window. We call at historic Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers and dominated by the immense Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.This morning we take a guided walk around the old town, exploring its twisting streets and charming squares.During a relaxed lunch we cruise to Boppard, known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’. Wonderfully situated on a sweeping meander, it is one of the Rhineland’s most attractive villages. Its stone quayside is lined with boats of all descriptions set against a backdrop of archetypal half-timbered buildings and cobbled streets.There are also some superb Roman walls, reputed to be the finest in Germany. Uncover its fascinating Roman past on our guided walk, seeing the 4th-century fortress, reputedly the finest and best-preserved in the country. You’ll also see the striking St Severin Church, with its lovely stained glass and the picturesque marketplace, encircled by colourful facades.This evening delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments.Personalise your holiday -Cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein fortress and visitDuration: At leisurePrice: £19pp (2025) & £21pp (2026)Take a scenic cable car over the Rhine River to the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress, which stands 118 meters tall on its riverbanks. Built by the Prussians to fend off the French, it's the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe, with an unparalleled view of Koblenz and the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Here, you can explore the castle's 1000-year history at leisure before returning to Koblenz by cable car.Optional excursion can be done during free time or instead of the walking tour of Koblenz.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

20 May 2026

Rüdesheim

21 May 2026

Mainz

Mainz - This morning we take the short cruise to the town of Mainz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers, for a city walking tour. An important Roman city for over 450 years with the largest amphitheatre north of the Alps, Mainz is also home to the magnificent Romanesque Saint Martin’s Cathedral and Saint Stephen’s Church, whose interior is filled with beautiful blue light flooding through stained glass windows featuring intricate biblical figures – a masterpiece by the great artist Marc Chagall.On the tour, wander the crooked streets of the old town and city centre to discover the half-timbered houses and historic Roman Catholic monuments, finishing at Saint Stephen’s where you’ll have the opportunity to admire the vibrant Chagall windows up close. After the tour you have time to see the striking Cathedral and bustling marketplace. Take in the atmosphere of this river port city and marvel at the architectural feat of the 13ft sandstone ‘Heunensäule’ which dates back to 1,000 AD. Mainz’s most famous son is Johannes Gutenberg, father of modern printing, and there’s an excellent museum housing a reconstruction of his workshop and two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles, among the earliest books ever printed.This afternoon our ship cruises up the Main River. Due to locks and low bridges the main part of the sun deck will be closed between Mainz and Passau. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the Riverview Kitchen and the lower section of the sun deck are still accessible. On board your floating boutique hotel in the afternoon, find a relaxing seat in the lounge to take in the lovely views of lush woodland and fertile vineyards seamlessly idling by. As evening approaches, why not enjoy an apéritif in the bar before choosing a table in the restaurant to enjoy the chef’s masterful creations for dinner?Personalise your holiday -Guided tour of the Gutenberg MuseumDuration: 1.5hrsPrice: £10pp (2025) & £11pp (2026)Join our guide for a tour of the Gutenberg Museum, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, a native of Mainz, who invented printing with movable metal type over 500 years ago! It houses a reconstruction of his workshop and, outstandingly, two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles.Founded in 1900 by Mainz citizens, the museum highlights the history of letterpress printing through technical tools, typesetting machines, and printing presses. As a "World Museum for the Art of Printing," it features sections on the origins of printing in East Asia, scripts from the Islamic world, and the development of manuscripts. Other displays cover the history of printing presses, bookbinding, fine press techniques, and the production of paper and colours.This optional excursion can be chosen instead of the walking tour of Mainz.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

22 May 2026

Miltenberg

Miltenberg & Wertheim - The views this morning are of dense emerald, green forests as we cruise to Miltenberg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval villages, where we enjoy a guided tour. It became prosperous during the Middle Ages under the protection of its castle and today its colourful half-timbered houses and market square with its octagonal Renaissance fountain are an atmospheric reminder of times past.Embark on our intriguing walking tour, to see one of the most beautiful marketplaces on the Main, the “Schnatterloch”, encircled by proud half-timbered houses, with their steeply gabled roofs and charmingly decorative facades. You’ll see the former Waaghaus, the old town hall and the oldest inn in Germany, dating back to the 15th-century. If you would like to have more time to explore independently, you can choose a shorter orientation walk followed by free time.During lunch, we cruise around the first of the many meandering bends that characterise the Main River, before learning more about the history of glassblowing and watching a fascinating demonstration of this historic craft.This afternoon we’ll discover the secrets of Wertheim on a walking tour. Overlooked by a mighty ruined castle, it’s a joy to stroll through the town’s atmospheric streets, soaking up the ambience of this delightfully picturesque spot. As you wander the quaint and colourful market square, look out for the blink-and-miss-it Zobelhaus, a contender for the narrowest house in Germany.Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something more active, consider joining a tour to Wertheim Castle. After an easy yet steep climb, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the old town and the river landscapes of the Main and Tauber. The castle has overlooked the city since the 12th century, although it was partially destroyed during the Thirty Years' War. Its ruins are filled with fascinating history waiting to be explored.This evening you’ll be served another delectable dinner, and overnight we cruise to Würzburg.

23 May 2026

Würzburg

24 May 2026

Bamberg

25 May 2026

Nuremberg

Nuremberg - Today we call at Nuremberg, the Bavarian city which will always be associated with the Nazi period – Hitler’s pre-war rallies and the international war crimes trials that brought down the final curtain on that notorious regime. What is less well known is that Nuremberg is regarded as the unofficial capital of Germany’s First Reich, better known as the Holy Roman Empire, which was founded with the coronation of Charlemagne in 800 AD and lasted for over a thousand years.This morning you have two choices:Choose to explore Nuremberg’s medieval history with a panoramic coach tour of the city culminating in a visit to the majestic Nuremberg Castle. This fortress, symbolizing imperial power, stands as a testament to the city’s heritage, once serving as the residence for Holy Roman Emperors. Here you'll encounter the opulence of the Knights' and Imperial Hall, a Romanesque double chapel, and an engaging exhibit that unveils the inner workings of the Holy Roman Empire. Additionally, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from Sinwell Tower or look down into the Deep Well. After time to explore the castle, we'll enjoy a walking tour down to the old town ending with free time to explore Nuremberg at leisure.Alternatively, you can combine Nuremberg’s rich medieval history with its significance in WWII. Nuremberg was considered the spiritual home of the Nazi Party, hosting massive propaganda events like the annual party rallies at the Zeppelin Field and serving as the birthplace of the Nuremberg Laws. After WWII, it became the site of the Nuremberg Trials, where top Nazi leaders were held accountable for war crimes in the Palace of Justice. Today, we'll stop to visit the rally grounds and pass the courthouse before leaving the coach to see the castle and finish with a walking tour of the old town. As we wander, we'll learn more about the city's long history, and see many of its medieval sites, like the Hauptmarkt Square (where the enchanting Christmas Markets are held) and the Old City Hall.Later, we return to the ship for lunch.We continue our cruise so it’s the perfect opportunity to relax and make the most of the ship’s excellent facilities. Indulge in a treatment in the spa or at the hairdressers, or simply find a comfy seat in the lounge with an afternoon cup of tea and enjoy the views.

26 May 2026

Kelheim

27 May 2026

Passau

28 May 2026

Melk

29 May 2026

Vienna

Vienna - Imagine Vienna and you think of an elegant imperial city that’s one of the gems of Central Europe, and perhaps the world’s most musical city. Its name conjures up an image of culture, ornate architecture, resplendent cafés, aristocratic palaces and imposing cathedrals, with the romantic music of the great composers filling the air. In fact, the reality is little different and there’s an absolute wealth of things to see in this former capital of the Habsburg Empire, which held sway over much of Central and Eastern Europe for centuries until its demise at the end of the First World War.For such a grand city Vienna is quite compact and this morning we enjoy an enlightening guided tour. This most civilised of cities first rose to prominence in the 17th century, and over the next 200 years a magnificent array of galleries, churches and palaces was built. At its heart we have the lovely Saint Stephen’s Cathedral with its dazzling patterned roof of glazed tiles, then the awe-inspiring Hofburg Palace, the former royal court that’s now a collection of museums, home to the Crown Jewels and relics of the Holy Roman Empire as well as the famous Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs.After the panoramic tour on coach along the Ringstrasse, the famous boulevard, built where the city walls once stood and lined with many of the most important sights, you can choose to continue your tour on foot through the old town or explore independently.The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy this wonderful city at your leisure.During another exquisite dinner back on board, we leave Vienna behind and head for our next stop, the Slovakian capital Bratislava. Afterwards, perhaps retire for a digestif in the bar to reflect on all the wonderful sights you’ve seen so far and the people you’ve met on this unforgettable river cruise.Personalise your holiday -Visit the Spanish Riding School, ViennaDuration: 1hrPrice: £30pp (2025) £33pp (2026)Enjoy a visit to the Spanish Riding School, the only institution in the world that has practised classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the haute école for over 440 years and continues to do so. On this guided tour you will get a glimpse behind the scenes, see the stables of the Lippizaner horses, the training grounds and learn about the history, equestrian traditions and horses. Please note during 6 weeks in summer, the horses are on their holiday, therefore you won’t see any during the tour.This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna.This guided tour doesn’t include a performance of horses. Other available events like the morning training sessions and performances vary depending on the day of the week of your visit and season. Details can be found on www.srs.at/en/tickets-events/ where we recommend you book your tickets directly prior to travel.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.Personalise your holiday -Tour of Schönbrunn Palace with wine-tasting, ViennaDuration: 4hrsPrice: £93pp (2025) £99pp (2026)Join us for a tour of Schönbrunn Palace with a local guide. Once a summer residence in the countryside, Schönbrunn now serves as an oasis of architectural beauty and tranquillity in the heart of 21st-century Vienna, thanks to the city's expansion. On our guided tour we’ll see the palace’s highlights, including the state rooms and private apartments of the Habsburg emperors.After our tour, we'll visit the Josef II restaurant nestled in the palace gardens where we'll dive into Viennese viticulture. No other federal capital in the world has as much wine-growing area as Vienna, with large vineyards on the outskirts of the city and today we'll enjoy a taste of the local offering, accompanied by cheese and bread.This optional excursion can be done during your free afternoon in Vienna.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

30 May 2026

Bratislava

31 May 2026

Budapest

Budapest - You rise refreshed in this breathtakingly beautiful imperial capital that straddles the great Danube River, and we have a whole day to enjoy it. Dominated by its castle, Budapest has been called ‘Little Paris of Middle Europe’ and, with its truly magnificent skyline of soaring spires and grand domes, it’s not hard to see why. It’s renowned for the bewitching blend of monuments reflecting Hungary’s national culture and those of the foreign powers that have dominated most of the city’s history.Today Budapest is a collage of Roman ruins, Turkish baths from the Ottoman Empire, palatial buildings, Baroque churches and sensational Art Nouveau architecture and design – all wrapped up in a wonderful atmosphere enhanced by the unique sound of Hungary’s music and language.You’ll really get to know this beguiling city on our guided tour, and this morning you have a couple of choices:If you choose the panoramic coach tour, you’ll drive past some of Budapest’s famous sites, including the Opera House, Gellert Baths, chain bridge, the iconic Parliament building, and more, and stop for photos and some time to explore at Hero’s Square and Buda castle.Alternatively, you can choose our active tour, where you’ll take a coach to the castle district. From here, you’ll take lifts up to the castle terraces to begin a guided walking tour around the castle area and Fisherman’s bastion. You’ll then have free time to wander the ancient streets of the Castle District while you enjoy panoramic views of the city before heading back to coach for the transfer to the ship. This tour involves uneven grounds and a lot of walking so we only recommend it for customers who are comfortable with a moderate activity level.You have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure, and culturally you’re spoilt for choice with the city’s array of fine museums and art galleries.You could stroll down elegant Andrassy Avenue or visit the spectacular Central Market Hall, where you can find everything from traditional foods to handicrafts.Afterwards you return to the ship for your final dinner on board and, later, enjoy a coffee in the lounge with your travel companions while sharing memories of your exploration of the heart of Europe on this splendid cruise.Personalise your holiday -Tour of Hungarian Parliament Duration: 3hrsPrice: £59pp (2025) £65pp (2026)Today, you could enjoy a closer look at one of our favourite sights along the Danube River: The Hungarian Parliament Building. This breathtaking masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture commands attention from across Budapest, but a guided tour offers a glimpse at the intricate detail and rich cultural heritage of Hungary. We follow our tour of the interior with a brief walk around the outside of the building to take in the building and its surroundings. We'll also see a touching memorial and a monument to the Hungarian Jews who died during the Arrow Cross's region of terror, which is close by on the banks of the Danube.This optional excursion can be done instead of the guided afternoon tour of Budapest. Please be aware that this is a working parliamentary building, and on rare occasions, it may not be open to the public.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

01 June 2026

Budapest

Return home

Explore MS George Eliot

Main Restaurant

The spacious main restaurant offers an intimate yet relaxed fine dining experience with informal free seating. Guests are spoilt for choice with a hearty buffet at breakfast; a salad and dessert buffet plus pasta station at lunch with served soup and main courses, and sumptuous four-course dinners executed with silver service.

Excursions and activities

A daily programme is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening, detailing the following day’s activities.

On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains.

You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.

Optional excursions

Visits to places of interest are organised for most of the days of your holiday, but it it is not compulsory that you go on all the included experiences that have been arranged.

Please note: entrance fees to museums are not usually included in the price of your holiday.

Sun Deck

Crowning MS George Eliot is the Sun Deck, the ideal spot for taking in unhindered river views. There is a shaded seating area with plenty of comfortable outdoor chairs and sun loungers, as well as a putting green and splash pool.

Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.

Putting Green

The Putting Green can be found on the Sun Deck next to the Splash Pool.

Sun Deck

Sun Loungers & Chairs
Splash Pool
Putting Green

Diamond Deck

Bistro
Travel Desk
Reception
Shop
Panorama Lounge
Bar
Library
Diamond Deck Cabin
Deluxe Balcony Suite
Superior Suite

Ruby Deck

Restaurant
Ruby Deck Cabin
Superior Suite

Emerald Deck

Wellness Centre
Emerald Deck Cabin
Superior Suite

Deluxe Balcony Suite

For the ultimate in space and river cruise luxury, the spacious Deluxe Balcony Suite offers a generous living area with chairs and table, plus soft cotton bathrobes and slippers. There are floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that open out on to a small balcony with a table for two.

There are four Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).

Features

Individual climate control
Floor to ceiling windows with outside balcony
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
Table and chairs
Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

Facilities

Queen or Twin Configuration
Lounge Area
Shower
Toiletries Provided
Room Service Available
TV
Free Wi-Fi
Safe
Hair Dryer
Desk
Suite Benefits
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
Telephone
Air Conditioning

Superior Suite

Superior Suites on the Emerald Deck benefit from a generous living area and smaller fixed windows.

There are two Superior Suites the Emerald Deck (lower deck).

Features

Individual climate control
Fixed window
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
Table and chairs
Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

Facilities

Queen or Twin Configuration
Shower
Toiletries Provided
Room Service Available
TV
Media/Entertainment Station
Coffee Machine
Safe
Hair Dryer
Telephone
Desk
Air Conditioning
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)