Experience Dürnstein, Bratislava and memorable moments along the Danube.
Whether the Wachau, Bratislava or seasonal events – our day trips combine a cruise on the Danube with time for individual discoveries ashore.
In addition to regular cruises to Dürnstein and Bratislava, selected day trips take you to seasonal events and special destinations along the river. During summer, highlights include the Apricot Festival in Krems and the Midsummer Special for the Wachau Summer Solstice, while the Christmas Market at Schloss Hof can be visited during the Advent season.
Step aboard and leave everyday life behind. Enjoy relaxing hours on the Danube and look forward to a variety of fascinating destinations and experiences ashore.
Travel from Vienna to Bratislava aboard the elegant MS Kaiserin Elisabeth and enjoy a relaxing day filled with Danube scenery, culinary delights, and city charm. Discover the Slovak capital and its picturesque Old Town at your own pace, while enjoying full catering throughout the entire cruise.
From Vienna to the Heart of the Wachau: Travel comfortably aboard the MS Kaiserin Elisabeth to Dürnstein and enjoy a delightful day trip between the Danube and rolling vineyards. Explore the famous Wachau town at your own pace and take in the breathtaking river scenery along one of Austria’s most beautiful stretches of the Danube.
Travel by ship to the Schloss Hof Christmas Market: This winter cruise to Hainburg combines scenic Danube views with the unique charm of one of Lower Austria’s most beautiful Christmas markets.
Train + Ship + Melk Abbey
Discover the natural and cultural highlights of the Wachau by train and ship. At Melk Abbey, fascinating museum exhibitions and magnificent state rooms await.
Daily, 28 March – 01 November 2026 | MS Dürnstein, MS Wachau or MS Austria
Departure/Return: Vienna
Advance booking required: Available at all ÖBB ticket counters, online via theÖBB Ticket Shop Opens in new window or Rail Tours Ticket Shop, through the ÖBB app, at ÖBB travel agencies, or via ÖBB Customer Service on +43 (0) 5 1717-3
Organised by: Rail Tours Touristik GmbH
Discounts: With Vorteilscard: € 77,00, Adults: € 88,00, Children (6-15 years): € 49,00, Children (0–5 years): free of charge
Package includes:
DDSG Blue Danube offers a range of day trips, from cruises to Dürnstein in the Wachau Valley and Bratislava to seasonal excursions such as the Apricot Festival in Krems, the Midsummer Special for the Wachau Summer Solstice, and the Christmas Market at Schloss Hof.
Yes, DDSG Blue Danube offers regular Day trips from Vienna to Bratislava. Once in Bratislava, there is time to explore the Old Town and the main sights of the Slovak capital at your own pace.
For those who would like to spend more time in Bratislava, the Culinary Excursion to Bratislava is also available as a two-day trip on selected dates. This option allows for an extended stay and even more time to discover the city.
One of our most popular day trips is the day trip to Dürnstein in the Wachau Valley. Visitors have time to explore the historic town centre, including its famous blue church tower and the ruins of Dürnstein Castle at their own pace.
In addition, DDSG Blue Danube offers selected seasonal excursions and special cruises within the Wachau region. These include highlights such as the Apricot Festival in Krems and the Midsummer Special for the Wachau Summer Solstice.
The duration varies depending on the selected trip and destination. Detailed information on sailing times, departure schedules and time available at each destination can be found in the description of the respective day trip.
Most of our day trips depart from Vienna. The exact departure point for each cruise is listed in the description of the respective day trip.
Depending on the selected offer, day trips may include the cruise itself, catering on board, and additional services such as transfers or admission tickets. Detailed information about the services included can be found in the description of each individual day trip.
Yes, the day trips are ideal for a short getaway without an overnight stay. Destinations such as Dürnstein, Bratislava, Krems and Tulln can be conveniently combined with a cruise on the Danube. With travel, time at the destination and the return journey all taking place on the same day, these excursions offer an easy way to escape everyday life and discover new places.
The programme varies depending on the season. In addition to regular cruises to Dürnstein and Bratislava, DDSG Blue Danube offers a variety of seasonal excursions and special events throughout the year.