Danube Riverside Cruise - Three Capital Cities in four days

Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna are much appreciated capital cities and all are well-established on the European 'heat map' of desirable city-break destinations. But can all three cities be viewed and enjoyed in the context of a three nights / four days break?

I was curious to discover whether a luxury river cruise experience could offer all the luxury comforts of five star deluxe accommodation along with the all important culinary experiences we all associate with a European holiday. And so joined by my favourite travelling companion (my good lady wife of course!), we booked a short-break, river cruise with Riverside Luxury Cruises. (www.riverside-cruises.com)

On arrival in Budapest, we were greeted at the airport and swiftly transferred by Mercedes limousine to our river cruise vessel, the aptly named 'Riverside Mozart'. Riverside has completely renovated this ship in beautiful taste, and all suite guest accommodation is assured. We were accommodated in a Riverside Suite on deck two. All modern five star hotel equivalent accommodation confirmed ; king-size double bed, luxury shower room, widescreen TV (which we did not feel the urge to ever turn on!), writing desk, fully stocked mini-bar, sofa, full length mirror and a fully openable window with french balcony for those special views on the Danube from cityscapes to riverbanks. We felt assured of comfortable nights in keeping with what can be expected from five star luxury hotel accommodation.

All-inclusive terms are sometimes the preference of even the most discerning of holidaymaker, and at our welcome we were comforted by the great confidence of the reception / guest relations team, they are all clearly very proud of the experience and high quality of service they offer. "You will surely enjoy wonderful cuisine (breakfast, lunch and dinner) on this river cruise with a great choice of venues on board, and even when on our included excursions". For night one we were encouraged to enjoy a sumptuous barbecue on the top desk, and 'be warned' you have arrived on the State Foundation Day of Hungary https://studyinhungary.hu/blog/what-do-hungarians-celebrate-on-20th-august There will be incredible fireworks at 9pm and so it proved!. We were on the Danube in the very centre of Budapest which was literally lined with one million locals eager to delight in the 'show'. Just like being on the Thames in the centre of London at midnight on New Year's Eve! An enchanting first experience, and yes the barbecue food with matching wine, was delightful too. What an amazing first impression, wow!

After a great nights sleep, our first full day was upon us and we excitedly visited deck three of Mozart where the choice of on-board dining venues are to be found. Breakfast at the Waterside Restaurant was an absolute delight. Show cooking, waiter service and a complete breakfast buffet to rival the offer of any luxury hotel. And this main restaurant is so spacious, it's hard to imagine you are actually on a river cruise ship, save the beautiful views from the full-length windows!

Budapest was enjoyed with two half day excursions (with lunch back on the Mozart squeezed in at midday). Did we get to visit the key sites of Hungary's capital on this day? - a little whirlwind, but yes indeed, we very much enjoyed the splendour of the city. A sumptuous four courses menu evening meal was enjoyed back on the Mozart, and then on to the Cove Piano bar for a night cap.

The next morning, Mozart arrived early and docked just a ten minutes stroll from the historic centre of Bratislava. We enjoyed a quick post-breakfast walk through the attractive streets of the city centre, and then swiftly returned to ship to delight in the incredible top deck of Mozart with a wonderful array of comfortable furniture ideal for soaking up the August sunshine. There's even a Rooftop garden area to admire! After lunch we headed back into the Slovakian capital for a guided historic tour and a spot of beer tasting! And as soon as we knew it, we were back on the Mozart for dinner. This time at the exquisite Blue Bar and Grill which on this occasion served a tremendous fusion of Asian and Spanish influenced food and wine. And then we were encouraged to enjoy the post-dinner show with cocktails at the Mozart's beautiful 'Palm Court' venue.

And so on to Vienna. Our final day included the now requisite full breakfast, a wonderful relaxed morning enjoying the delights of the on board Spa centre which features a good-sized indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam and fitness rooms. After lunch we headed into the city for a very comfortable tour by coach and on foot. Summertime in the city, something to be revered! And late in the afternoon with heavy hearts, we said farewell to the wonderful team of Riverside Mozart.

Mission accomplished - we had enjoyed three delightful nights on board the Mozart, had been wined and dined in royal style. All served by the most delightful of professionals who looked after us so comprehensively on river and land. We enjoyed three capital cities, all of which we would love to return to soon, and we will forever cherish the memories of our time on Riverside's Mozart. Thank you in all three languages ; Koszonom / Dakujem / Danke.