Danube Dreams River Cruise

Iconic Cities & Timeless Riverscapes
October 14 to 24, 2026
Castles, Culture & the Legendary Danube

Sail into the heart of Europe on a journey where every bend in the river reveals another legend. From the Gothic spires of Prague to the grand boulevards of Budapest, this cruise brings you face-to-face with centuries of history, artistry, and timeless charm.

Glide through the Wachau Valley, where terraced vineyards and castle ruins line the riverbanks, and step ashore to explore cities that shaped Europe’s story—Vienna with its imperial palaces, Bratislava’s cobbled Old Town, and Regensburg’s Roman gates. Along the way, enjoy the perfect mix of guided tours and time at leisure, giving you the freedom to savor each destination your way.

Cultural encounters bring the journey to life, whether it’s hearing Mozart in Vienna, walking in the footsteps of emperors, or sampling regional flavors in cafés and taverns. With the Avalon Illumination as your elegant floating hotel, the views are as inspiring onboard as they are ashore.

This is Europe at its most enchanting. A seamless blend of history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes carried by the legendary Danube.

Quick Facts

Travel Dates

October 14 to 24, 2026

Meals

22

Max Guests

24

Activity Level

Moderately Active

Exclusive Highlights

  • Discover Europe’s historic gems with guided tours of Prague, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest.

  • Cruise the Wachau Valley, passing vineyards, castles, and storybook villages.

  • Choose your adventure with flexible excursions: bike rides, hikes, farm visits, or classic city walks.

  • Experience culture up close with a Vienna waltz concert, local tastings, and castle visits.

What's Taken Care Of

  • 2 nights of accommodation pre-cruise in Prague including breakfast
  • Guided walking tour of Prague
  • 7-night Danube Dreams river cruise on board the Avalon Illumination
    • Daily entertainment and performances
    • Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
    • Choice of shore excursion at each destination during cruise
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship during cruise
    • Gratuities for ship staff
  • All taxes
  • Hosted by Target Tours

 

Roundtrip Airfare from Canada (to be confirmed):
Roundtrip economy class airfare from Canada to Prague and return from Budapest to Canada will be added once flight schedules and pricing are released in December 2025. Current estimates place airfare between $2,000–$3,000 CAD per person additional.

Itinerary At A Glance

October 14, 2026

Depart on your overnight flight to Prague, Czech Republic.

October 15, 2026

Arrive in the legendary “City of 100 Spires,” where Gothic towers and Baroque domes shape one of Europe’s most enchanting skylines. Take time to wander at your leisure, whether through the cobbled streets of the Old Town or into the surrounding countryside.

October 16, 2026

Join a Guided City Walk through the magnificent Hradčany Castle grounds, where you’ll see the soaring St. Vitus Cathedral and the famed Astronomical Clock in the Old Town. The remainder of the day is yours to explore—perhaps sample traditional plum dumplings with a glass of Pilsner, enjoy the lively atmosphere of Wenceslas Square, or stroll across the Charles Bridge adorned with its iconic statues.

October 17, 2026

After breakfast, travel to Regensburg and join a Guided City Walk to see the Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and the ancient Porta Pretoria, built in 179 AD as the gateway to the Roman fortress of Castra Regina. Enjoy free time to stroll the historic lanes and lively squares before continuing to Vilshofen, where you will board the Avalon Illumination for a welcome reception. This evening, begin your scenic cruise toward Passau.

October 18, 2026

In Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers converge, choose your preferred excursion:

  • Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a hike from Oberhaus down to the valley and along the Ilz River.
  • Classic: Take a Guided City Walk to discover the history and charm of this “City of Three Rivers.”

Before sailing to Linz, enjoy free time to explore Passau’s cobblestone streets and browse the galleries of Artists’ Alley, or perhaps step inside St. Stephen’s Cathedral for a concert rehearsal. This afternoon, cruise through the dramatic Schlögen Oxbow before docking overnight in Linz.

October 19, 2026

Today offers several ways to experience the beauty of Austria, with a choice between:

  • Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a bike ride along the Danube.
  • Discovery: Enjoy a full-day Guided Tour of Salzburg, the city of Mozart.
  • Classic: Take a Guided Walk through Linz’s historic sites along the Danube, including Hauptplatz—Austria’s largest medieval square—and the striking white-marble Trinity Column.

In the afternoon, you may choose to bike along the riverbanks with a picnic or hike through Linz’s scenic trails to Pöstlingberg for sweeping views of the city and the Danube below. This evening, set sail toward Ybbs.

October 20, 2026

Your day begins in the historic region of Lower Austria, where you’ll have a choice of excursions:

  • Discovery: Join a guided visit to two family-owned farms and learn how they produce traditional specialties and products.
  • Classic: Visit the Lower Austrian town of Ybbs, followed by a Guided Tour of Artstetten Castle, steeped in Austrian history.
  • Classic: Take a Guided Tour of Melk Abbey, the magnificent Benedictine monastery renowned for its frescoed ceilings, grand library, ornate pipe organ, and a special music event.

Later, relax on the Sky Deck as you sail through the Wachau Valley, passing vineyards, castles, and storybook villages.

  • Active: Alternatively, experience the Wachau Valley on a guided bike ride along its scenic trails with your Avalon Adventure Host.

Arrive in Dürnstein, where you may choose:

  • Active: A guided hike up to the castle ruins for panoramic views of the village, the Danube, and the valley below.
  • Classic: A Guided Walk through the village, where you’ll hear the legendary tale of King Richard the Lionheart, once imprisoned here during the Crusades.

Your ship departs in the evening for an overnight cruise to Vienna.

October 21, 2026

Begin your day in Austria’s capital, a city of gilded landmarks and musical heritage, with your choice of excursions:

  • Active: Explore Vienna’s Danube Island on a guided bike ride with your Avalon Adventure Host.
  • Classic: Take a Guided City Tour to experience the grandeur of the Habsburg Empire. See the Imperial Palace complex, the Vienna Opera House, and the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

You may also choose an optional guided excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, the former imperial summer residence of the Habsburgs.

Later, enjoy free time to stroll along Kärntnerstrasse, Vienna’s most famous shopping avenue, or stop at a local café to savor Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel.

This evening, attend a Royal Waltz Concert in an elegant hall for an unforgettable performance of Vienna’s most celebrated music.

Your ship departs overnight for Bratislava.

October 22, 2026

Arrive in Slovakia’s charming capital, where you can choose between two ways to explore:

  • Active: Hike with your Avalon Adventure Host to the hilltop Bratislava Castle for panoramic views of the city.
  • Classic: Take a Guided City Walk through the quaint streets of Old Town, including the Town Hall and St. Martin’s Cathedral, the traditional site of royal coronations.

Afterward, enjoy free time to explore Bratislava on your own. Discover its rich history and culture in the city center or take in the green spaces and parks just steps away. This evening, your ship begins its overnight journey to Budapest.

October 23, 2026

Wake up in Hungary’s captivating capital and choose your morning experience:

  • Active: Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a hike to a magnificent viewpoint overlooking the city.
  • Classic: Take a Guided City Sightseeing Tour, featuring the iconic Heroes’ Square and a visit to the Hungarian State Opera House—a true “musical jewel box” of Pest.

This afternoon, the choice is yours. Join one of several optional guided excursions, or enjoy free time to discover Budapest at your own pace. Stroll across the famous Chain Bridge, linger in a café or pub, or hike the scenic hills above the Danube. This evening, your ship remains docked in Budapest overnight.

October 24, 2026

Disembark the Avalon Illumination and transfer to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport for your return flight home.

Want the full day-by-day itinerary?

Download a copy of this itinerary complete with descriptions of each day, prices, inclusions, and more information to help you make sure this is the perfect experience for you. You can easily share it with friends and family, too!

Pricing

Double Occupancy

  • Cat D/E (Indigo Deck Aft/Fwd): $8,085
  • Cat B (Sapphire Deck Aft): $10,165
  • Cat A (Sapphire Deck Fwd): $10,219
  • Cat P (Royal Deck): $10,269

 

Single Occupancy

  • Cat D/E (Indigo Deck Aft/Fwd): $12,899
  • Cat B (Sapphire Deck Aft): $18,199
  • Cat A (Sapphire Deck Fwd): $18,345
  • Cat P (Royal Deck): $18,479

 

Prices are per person in Canadian Dollars. All taxes included.

Additional Cost for Airfare from Canada: Estimated at $2,000–$3,000 CAD per person (to be confirmed December 2025).

Prices subject to change based on currency exchange, local taxes, and airfare.
Book early to benefit from our guaranteed early rate. Prices will increase by $500 per person on January 12, 2026.

Payment Schedule

  • Initial Deposit: $1,000 per person at time of booking*
  • Second Payment: $1,500 per person on December 17, 2025
  • Third Payment: $2,500 per person on April 15, 2026
  • Final Payment due June 15, 2026

 

*Your initial deposit is refundable (less $250) until airfare is confirmed in December 2025.

*As per Avalon Waterways policy, a required deposit of $250 per person is 100% non-refundable. In the event of tour cancellation by Target Tours, paid passengers will receive a Target Tours Travel Credit for the $250 non-refundable deposit amount to use on a future trip with us. The Travel Credit will hold no cash value.

Ready to turn your travel dreams into reality?

Booking takes just a few minutes and your journey is one step closer. Click the button below or call 1-877-214-5367 to get started.

Reviews & Awards

Award-Winning Trips & Customer Service

Over 15 Years of Happy Travelers

Recommended by 95% of Past Guests

What You Can Expect

Travel Made Simple

Let us handle all the details, so you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the journey.

15+ Years of Excellence

Enjoy peace of mind as you join the thousands of satisfied travelers who've experienced our renowned expertise and warm hospitality.

Expertly Crafted Itineraries

Enjoy a vacation that takes you to the heart of each destination, with a perfect balance of guided activities and free time to explore.

Authentic Local Experiences

Connect with the people, places, and traditions that make each destination unforgettable.

Fast, Friendly, and Personal Service

We treat your travel like it’s our own—with quick answers, friendly help, and care in every detail.

Worry-Free Travel

Enjoy peace of mind with dedicated Tour Hosts ensuring your comfort and security every step of the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to the questions we hear most often from travelers, so you can plan with confidence.

How do I book?

You can book in a couple of easy ways:

  • By phone: Call our office at 1-877-214-5367 and chat with one of our team members. We’re here Monday–Thursday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, and Friday until 4:00 pm.

  • Online: Use our user-friendly booking portal right on the vacation page — available 24/7. Powered by WeTravel, it lets you pay your deposit securely, manage your booking, make payments, and complete forms all in one place.

Once your booking is complete and your deposit is received, you’ll get a receipt from WeTravel. Afterward, our team will be in touch with highlights of your tour, important payment dates, and a few helpful tips to get you ready. About 2–3 weeks before departure, we’ll send you your final itinerary with everything you need to know. And if a question pops up along the way, we’re only a phone call or email away during office hours. We’re here for you every step of the journey.

Your tour price does not include travel protection. We strongly recommend coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, and trip interruption.

For international tours, if you don’t purchase protection through Target Tours, you’ll need to provide proof of alternate coverage. By joining a tour without sufficient emergency medical insurance, you agree not to hold Target Tours responsible for costs that may arise.

You can read about our Travel Protection policies here. For questions or a quote, call us at 1-877-214-5367 — we’ll be happy to help.

Deposits are non-refundable, and once your final payment is made the tour becomes fully non-refundable. We strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance Protection to safeguard your investment. For international tours, if you don’t purchase protection through Target Tours, you’ll need to provide proof of alternate coverage.

If one or more guests in a room cancel, the remaining roommate(s) will be responsible for the adjusted rate based on the new occupancy.

In the rare case that Target Tours cancels a trip due to lack of interest, you may choose a full refund or transfer your funds to another tour (subject to supplier fees). As a thank-you, we’ll also provide a $50 travel credit toward your next trip. You’ll always be notified in advance of final payment if a tour is at risk of cancellation.

For full details, please see our Policies Page.

Yes, a valid passport is required for all tours outside of Canada. For most international, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your tour’s departure date.

It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they have the proper documents and to keep them safe while travelling. Without a valid passport, you may be unable to join or complete your tour.

Vaccination requirements vary depending on your destination and personal health. We recommend reviewing your travel plans with a healthcare professional to determine what’s right for you.

For convenience, Target Tours has partnered with the Virtual Travel Clinic, where you can easily book an online consultation and receive personalized guidance on recommended vaccinations and medications for your trip.

Your emergency contact should be someone who can step in if you or your travel companion need to leave the tour unexpectedly, most often due to a medical situation. Ideally, this person should:

  • Know they’ve been chosen as your contact.

  • Have a copy of your itinerary, passport, and insurance details.

  • Be willing and able to travel if necessary and assist in getting you home.

  • Be prepared to speak with your insurance company on your behalf if you’re unable.

If you need to update your emergency contact, please let Target Tours know at least 30 days before departure.

Moderately Active
A tour itinerary that’s a perfect blend of pre-planned excursions with free time to explore destinations at your own discretion. Our Moderately Active tours can include some, or all, of the following: flights in excess of 5 hours and/or overnight, longer days including guided tours, extended walking on uneven terrains like cobblestones streets/sidewalks, steep hills and multiple sets of stairs with or without handrails, lifting and carrying your own luggage for longer distances at hotels, airports & cruise terminals, some late nights and early morning starts, and an itinerary that explores 4 cities or more, where buses are not permitted.

Still have questions? Explore our full Frequently Asked Questions page for more details, or reach out to us anytime. We’re always happy to help!

Have a question about this trip?

Fill out the form below to ask us a question.

Important Information

Before booking, please take a moment to review our Policies Page. It includes details on booking and cancellation, travel documents, age restrictions, special requests, and more.

More Vacations for You

5 Ways Farm Tours Give You a Competitive Edge

Agricultural Tours aren’t just vacations. They’re carefully planned, small-group trips where Canadian farmers like you visit innovative farms abroad, meet other producers, and bring home fresh ideas.

Learn how these tours can give you and your farm a competitve edge.

Payment Schedule

  • Initial Deposit: $1,000 per person at time of booking*
  • Second Payment: $1,500 per person on December 17, 2025
  • Third Payment: $2,500 per person on April 15, 2026
  • Final Payment due June 15, 2026

 

*Your initial deposit is refundable (less $250) until airfare is confirmed in December 2025.

*As per Avalon Waterways policy, a required deposit of $250 per person is 100% non-refundable. In the event of tour cancellation by Target Tours, paid passengers will receive a Target Tours Travel Credit for the $250 non-refundable deposit amount to use on a future trip with us. The Travel Credit will hold no cash value.

Pricing Options

Double Occupancy

  • Cat D/E (Indigo Deck Aft/Fwd): $8,085
  • Cat B (Sapphire Deck Aft): $10,165
  • Cat A (Sapphire Deck Fwd): $10,219
  • Cat P (Royal Deck): $10,269

 

Single Occupancy

  • Cat D/E (Indigo Deck Aft/Fwd): $12,899
  • Cat B (Sapphire Deck Aft): $18,199
  • Cat A (Sapphire Deck Fwd): $18,345
  • Cat P (Royal Deck): $18,479

 

Prices are per person in Canadian Dollars. All taxes included.

Additional Cost for Airfare from Canada: Estimated at $2,000–$3,000 CAD per person (to be confirmed December 2025).

Prices subject to change based on currency exchange, local taxes, and airfare.

Become a Target Tours Insider

  • Priority Access: Be the first to know about new vacations.
  • Insider Stories: Travel tales and behind-the-scenes moments from the road.
  • Smart Travel Tips: Practical advice to make every journey smoother.
  • Destination Highlights: Fresh inspiration to spark your next getaway.

By signing up you will be added to the Target Tours email list. You can unsubscribe any time. We respect your privacy and never share information with third parties.

15535747
Submitting this form is a booking request only. Your place on the tour is not confirmed until we have contacted you and payment has been received.

Once we receive your request, a member of our team will be in touch within one business day to review the details and guide you through the next steps.

Always well prepared and hitting the highlights for a variety of travelers can be challenging but Target Tours does it! Plus having a sense of humor and adventure goes a long way to the group having a great adventure and lots of fun!

Rilla, Italy & Greek Isles Cruise

Every detail is in place. John and Lynn go above and beyond to make the experience as comfortable, entertaining, educational and as FUN as is possible. The staff at TT certainly are a Team… there is no question or concern ever dismissed as being unimportant. Any minor ‘glitches’ that may occur during the tour are handled immediately by John and/or Lynn. They are so accommodating in making each individual comfortable while ensuring gathering as a group is equally as comfortable, organized and enjoyable!

Lynne, Italy & Greek Isles Cruise

Target Tours is a small company in the grand scheme of tour companies, but it truly stands out! Their connection with their clients feels genuine and personal. They clearly want to ensure you have a wonderful trip and come home with many fond memories! Will recommend this amazing company to all our family and friends!!

Darlene, Splendors of Italy

John and Lynn were amazing hosts. An overall positive, inclusive experience from the very first interaction with the company. Super friendly, easy going, accommodating and very caring. They went out of their way to ensure everyone felt included. A wonderful holiday that will stay with me for years to come.

Libby, Ireland Luxury Manor Royal

I’ve been wanting to go to Alaska for many years. I finally got there it was absolutely beautiful and exceeded all expectations. John and Lynn are the best. They kept us informed on everything we needed to do before the cruise and during the cruise. I highly recommend Target Tours. I certainly will be traveling with him again in the future.

Georgette, Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise

Target Tours is a very trustworthy, reliable company. They take care of all aspects of your trip from beginning to end. They make you feel like the most important customer from the time you enquire about a tour to the time they say farewell! Great job. Thank you. I will be a returing customer.

Nancy, Alaska Hubbard Glacier Cruise

Thank you for everything. From start to finish, your team works well together , is organized and very efficient paying attention to details which is important . The team is well led by John and Lynn, we appreciate them and their knowledge and experience which in turn gives us a trip of a lifetime filled with many memories that will last our lifetime.

Anna Marie, Splendors of Italy

Flexible Payment Terms

After you pay your deposit we’re happy to offer payment options to make it easier to look after the remaining balance of your trip. We can arrange monthly payments or you can call in and pay any amount at any time between deposit and final payment. Our only rule is that all funds must be collected before final payment. If you would like to set up monthly payments please indicate upon booking so we can share further details.

24/7 Online Booking

Booking has never been easier! With our new online booking system, powered by WeTravel, you can book your trip and pay your deposit with just a few clicks. Plus, you can even make an account to manage your booking, make payments, ask us questions and more!

Custom-Curated Experiences

All of our experiences are crafted from the ground up, thoughtfully designed to provide the perfect blend of must-see attractions, authentic journeys, and ample free time for your own personal discoveries. Each itinerary is carefully curated to ensure a unique and memorable journey, just for you!

7 Costly Mistakes Atlantic Canadians Make When Booking Vacations

Discover how to:


  • Save hundreds of dollars on flights, insurance, and hidden fees
  • Avoid hours of stress with expert packing and planning tips
  • Travel smarter with recommendations from veteran Atlantic Canadian travellers

Katlyn Aiello – Tour Administrator

“I’ve always been one to care about the little details, so being able to ensure our clients that their trip is taken care of and everything is in place so they can truly focus on living the experience they dreamed of is what drives me to do the work I do each day.”

As I’m sure most know by now, Katlyn is our Tour Administrator, and is the first person you connect with when you reach out to Target Tours. Katlyn was born and raised in Morell, PE and is a Holland College graduate with a certificate in Business Administration. Katlyn has a passion for travel, and building client relationships starting at the very first point of contact or inquiry. She pays close attention to the little details, and goes above and beyond to ensure everything is taken care of prior to departure.
In her spare time you can find her visiting with her friends and family, reading on the couch with her cat, or playing outside with her dog.

Justin MacPhee - Tour Operations Manager

“I am privileged to have the opportunity to help make other’s travel dreams a reality.”

Justin was originally part of the Target Tours team as a Tour Coordinator/Planner from 2014 to 2020 and, after a brief hiatus, he rejoined the team in 2024 as Tour Operations Manager. Justin graduated from UPEI with a major in Business Administration and a minor in Psychology and brings with him many years of experience in customer and client service. He has a love for travel, planning, and working to ensure details are taken care of.
Justin was born and raised in Montague but now resides in Charlottetown with his wife Miranda. In his spare time, Justin enjoys spending time with family and being outdoors by the water.

Lynn Dunphy

“There are many things in life to be thankful for, being able to live our dream is one that I hold close to my heart. We’ve been blessed with wonderful family and friends and the opportunity to see what lies beyond our front door.”

Lynn is the financial wizard for Target Tours. A born and bred islander, she is a Holland College graduate with Records of Achievement in Accounting Technology and Programmer/Analyst.
While Lynn keeps the finances for Target Tours in check, she also enjoys teaming up with John to host group tours on an assortment of fun-filled adventures. She really enjoys getting to know the Target Tours passengers and ensuring everyone is having a wonderful time.
As a career bookkeeper, her role in the beginning with Target Tours was a weekend job. She has spent over 35 years doing books in public and private business. In 2017 her dream became a reality, and she joined John full time in the business. This is where she belonged.
When Lynn is not adding numbers, she enjoys her golf outings, fitness, cooking and reading.
Lynn and John have two beautiful daughters, Sarah and Lindsay, son-in-law, Ben and their treasured granddaughter, Lily.

John Dunphy

“For me, watching the smiles on the faces of our passengers when they see their travel dreams come true is the biggest I am in the travel business.”

John has spent over three decades in the travel industry starting at The Travel Store (Island Travel). In 2009, he and Lynn created Target Tours from the basement of the family home in Morell, PE and built on his passion for motor coaches.

From simple day tours on PEI to more extensive tours to Europe, attention to detail and
organization combine for a memorable travel experience. John will act as Tour Director
for some of his favourite tours such as river cruises and Europe.

As well as planning tours, John sometimes travels with the group as a Tour Host making
sure all the little details are being taken care of.

John and Lynn have two beautiful daughters, Sarah and Lindsay, son-in-law, Ben and
their treasured granddaughter, Lily.