The enchanting Danube is the heart and soul of Central Europe. Its banks are home to opulent, culture-packed cities, picturesque towns and villages, and miles of unspoilt countryside.
The cities along the Danube have also provided the setting for many cult films. Vienna in particular has a rich cinematic history. A real treat for movie-lovers, this cruise will take you to see the famous set location of celebrated Carol Reed film The Third Man.
Making this trip extra special are a series of talks and events with our own Noel Cronin and Mike Read, The Footage Detectives, on board, including two talks, a quiz and a film screening.
As well as tracing the footsteps of Orson Welles and others, you'll also get to see more cultural highlights in Vienna, Dürnstein, Melk and Linz.
At this time of year, these cities will be abuzz with festive spirit. Christmas lights shine out from the high windows of magnificent historical buildings, while baroque churches and opulent squares with sparkling Christmas markets and ice skating rinks look like something out of a fairytale.
You'll get the chance to visit some of these Christmas markets, including the lovely Christindl market in Linz. This historic market will entice you with the aroma of sweet treats, festive music and a sightseeing train that whisks you off to the peaceful, wintry Postlingberg Schlossl restaurant.
Your home for the duration of the cruise will be the lovely A-ROSA BELLA, a well-equipped ship with plenty to keep you entertained as you sail. There's a sauna, gym, spa, sundeck, heated outdoor pool and putting green to enjoy, as well as a restaurant, bar and cafe.
"All the events were well organised on the ship, like the film showings. There was plenty of time to enjoy the Third Man museum and the guided walk was terrific too."
December 2025
Noel is a film aficionado who is passionate about preserving film history and is forever uncovering and spotting famous film locations. Noel is the founder of the innovative and successful Talking Pictures TV and is one half of their hit TV show, The Footage Detectives, a Sunday teatime must watch.
Mike is an English radio disc jockey, writer, journalist and television presenter. He has been a broadcaster since 1976 and won ten National Broadcaster of the Year Awards, an International Music award, and was awarded the coveted Gold Badge of Merit for his special contribution to Britain's music industry. He has presented a number of television programmes and in 2021, he joined the Talking Pictures TV archive programme The Footage Detectives.
* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead in cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement applies. Deposit: 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Not suitable for those with mobility issues. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and A‑ROSA Flussschiff GmbH.
Today you'll fly to Munich and be transferred to Passau, the departure point for your Danube cruise. You'll board your stylish ship, A-ROSA BELLA, where you'll have time to settle into your cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship's facilities.
Later in the evening there'll be welcome drinks, so you can get to know the rest of the group and our tour manager before dinner.
This morning, you will hear the first of the Footage Detectives talk, which will take place in one of the lounges on board.
Today you'll arrive in Vienna, where the fabulous Christmas season will have the city sparkling with quaint Christmas markets where the air smells of cinnamon, mulled wine and sweet treats.
As well as having some time to enjoy the atmosphere of Vienna's festive markets, you will also enjoy a thrilling Third Man excursion, tracing the footsteps of character Harry Lime, portrayed by Orson Welles in the 1949 British film noir.
As you wander through the Old Town of Austria's vibrant capital to see several of the film's locations, you'll also spot top city attractions, such as the Hotel Sacher. Learn about espionage in the city's postwar years and get an insider's look on the attractions that inspired director Carol Reed.
You will also make a final stop at The Third Man museum, rounding off an exciting day.
This morning, you'll arrive in Dürnstein and after breakfast on board, explore at your leisure.
The alleys of Dürnstein's historic centre are cosy and car-free. Take a stroll to the Collegiate Church with its blue and white spire. With its colourful painting, the precious reliefs and the four obelisks, it is one of the most beautiful baroque towers in Austria. The English King Richard the Lionheart is inseparably connected with the history of Dürnstein. He was imprisoned in the castle of Dürnstein before he was released for a ransom. The ruins of the former Kuenringer castle lie above the town and dominate the image of the little town.
Later on, enjoy lunch on board as the ship sails towards Melk. There will be another Footage Detectives event on board, as you partake in a quiz.
Melk is the "Gateway to the Wachau". Step into the UNESCO World Heritage Site and admire the Danube valley from above. The town of Melk with its impressive Benedictine monastery sits majestically enthroned on a hill and offers you a breathtaking view. A perfect blend between city and nature.
This evening, back on board your ship, enjoy dinner and a special film screening of the Third Man.
This morning, you will have the second installment of the Footage Detectives talk, which will take place in one of the lounges on board.
Get to know the lovely Austrian city of Linz today. There is plenty of culture and many artistic treasures awaiting you here.
At Christmas time, Linz is particularly impressive with its range of postcard-perfect Christmas markets. Get in the mood for Christmas at the Christkindlmarkt and maybe even make a start on your Christmas shopping!
The ship will return to Passau today and after breakfast, you'll transfer back to Munich airport for your return flight to London.
Casual and friendly atmosphere on the Danube
A-ROSA ships are refreshingly casual. On A-ROSA BELLA, sail the Danube in style with a main restaurant, bar, cafe, sauna, gym, spa, sundeck, heated outdoor pool and putting green on board. There's free use of the on board facilities such as the sauna and fitness room, and on board entertainment to enjoy.
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* From price is per person, based on two people sharing a lead in cabin, subject to availability. Price and itinerary correct at time of print but may be subject to change. Single supplement applies. Deposit: 30%. Local charges such as tourist tax may apply. Not suitable for those with mobility issues. Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offers or promotions. In the case of unforeseen circumstances, expert(s) may be substituted, and any expert-led events may be subject to change. Expert(s) will not join you for your full trip duration unless otherwise stated. Travel insurance is not included and should be taken out at time of booking. Images used may not reflect your actual tour experience. This holiday may be sold through other selected brands. Tour is operated by and subject to the booking conditions of TS Travel Ltd and A‑ROSA Flussschiff GmbH.