Capital Cities of the Danube
Discover the Legendary Danube in Unparalleled Style
Journey through the heart of Europe on a 7-night luxury river cruise along the Danube aboard Uniworld's brand-new S.S. Helen. Explore the great capital cities and landscapes of the Danube while combining cultural discovery, beautiful countryside, luxury accommodations, exceptional cuisine, and the Kelli Gregg Travel hosted experience.
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Just Announced
- Destination Danube River, Central Europe
- Departure Dates August 12-18. 2028
- Duration 7 nights
- Trip Type River Cruise
Overview
Journey through the heart of Europe on a seven-night Danube River cruise aboard Uniworld’s brand-new S.S. Helen. Traveling through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, and Serbia, the voyage brings together the grandeur of Vienna, the charm of Bratislava, the energy of Budapest, and the history of Belgrade with the quieter beauty of riverside villages, vineyards, and countryside. Designed around the Greek ideal of philoxenia, or warm hospitality, the S.S. Helen adds contemporary Mediterranean elegance, beautifully appointed accommodations, exceptional cuisine, and personalized service to a journey rich in culture, scenery, and European history.
Why This Trip
This sailing offers the opportunity to experience one of Europe’s most storied waterways aboard one of Uniworld’s newest ships while traveling with the added camaraderie of Kelli Gregg Travel’s hosted experience. With excursions, beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and a special theme night included, much of the planning is already taken care of, leaving more time to enjoy the destinations and the people traveling with you. Kelli Gregg Travel guests also receive a €150 per-person onboard credit, adding an exclusive benefit to a trip that combines luxury river cruising, cultural discovery, and shared experiences across five countries.
Meet Your Hosts
Gregg Kaminsky and Kelli Carpenter
Gregg Kaminsky and Kelli Carpenter are the longtime travel partners behind R Family Vacations and Kelli Gregg Travel. Together, they combine extensive group-travel expertise, creative planning, and a shared commitment to building welcoming, community-centered experiences.
Anne Steele
Anne Steele is an award-winning New York City singer-songwriter and recording artist known for her expressive voice, original music, and engaging live performances. She brings warmth, humor, and a genuine ability to connect with audiences wherever she goes.
Itinerary
Day 1
Belgrade (Embark)
Transfer from Belgrade Nikola Tesla Airport to your ship. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
Day 2
Belgrade
Belgrade, the modern-day capital of Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities, dating back some 7,000 years. Signs of its tumultuous history are visible everywhere, juxtaposed with the city’s vibrant modern-day present.
Day 3
Novi Sad
Though not a national capital, Novi Sad is the capital of the autonomous province of Vojvodina, an ethnically diverse region with no less than 6 different official languages. Novi Sad is known for its easygoing atmosphere and thriving urban arts scene.
Day 4
Batina, Ilok
Welcome to Croatia! This ancient country, which has made a remarkable recovery from a brutal civil war, is noted for its beautiful countryside and thriving folk traditions, as well as simple, deliciously rustic food.
Day 5
Budapest
Located on opposite sides of the Danube, Buda and Pest each have a distinctive character and allure. Explore this dynamic and multi-faceted city with your choice of excursions—you can see it from a local’s perspective on a walking tour or cover more ground with a panoramic tour.
Day 6
Bratislava
Once hidden from the world behind the “Iron Curtain,” Slovakia retains an air of mystery and intrigue, and its small capital city has an unexpectedly colorful history. The heart and soul of Slovakia, Bratislava is full of surprises. The city straddles the mighty Danube and has played a leading role in the politics and culture of the region for many centuries.
Day 7
Vienna
The grand dame of the Danube, Vienna was the heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and remains, to this day, the political and cultural center of Austria. It’s a treasure trove of splendid architecture, astonishing art collections, and inviting cafés—and today it is yours to explore.
Day 8
Vienna (Disembark)
Disembark the ship. If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to Vienna International Airport for your flight.
What’s Included
Dining & Onboard Food/Drink
- All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
- 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
- Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
- Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
- Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
Meals, Transfers & Services
- Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
- Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
Excursions & Onshore Experiences
- 6 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
- State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
- Brompton G-Line Bicycles and Nordic Walking sticks available for independent exploration
- Excursions included (per Kelli Gregg Travel override)
Accommodations, Onboard Amenities & Specials
- Lavishly appointed river-view staterooms with handcrafted Savoir Beds of England
- Free Wi-Fi
- Special Theme Night
- Kelli Gregg Travel group benefit - €150 per person onboard credit
Other Included Experiences
- Captivating onboard local entertainment
- Cultural enrichment
- 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites (as noted in trip overview)
Pricing
Pricing
| Description | Price per Guest | Taxes and Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Starting fare | $3,499 | $280 |