TL;DR: A Danube River cruise costs $1,052-$10,290 per person, averaging under $300 per day for a 7-night trip. Prices vary by cruise line, cabin, and season, with budget options like Viking starting at $2,299 and luxury cruises like Scenic hitting $10,290. Book early or travel in October for deals, and check inclusions to avoid surprises.
Dreaming of sailing the Danube River past castles and vineyards? You’re probably wondering, “How much does a Danube River cruise cost per person?” We’ve scoured 2025 pricing, tapped expert sources, and gathered tips to help you budget for this bucket-list trip. Let’s dive in with Chima Travel’s expertise to guide you!
What’s the Average Cost of a Danube River Cruise?
The cost of a Danube River cruise per person depends on the cruise line, itinerary, and cabin type. According to River Cruise Advisor’s 2025 pricing charts, here’s the range:
• Budget: 1,500- 2,500 for 5–8 nights (e.g., CroisiEurope or Viking).
• Mid-range: 3,000 – 5,000 for 7 nights (e.g., AmaWaterways or Avalon).
• Luxury: 6,000- 10,290 for 7 nights (e.g., Scenic or Tauck).
• Average: Under $300 per person per day for a standard 7-night cruise.
My friend Sarah took a Viking cruise last year and paid $2,799 for a 7-night Romantic Danube trip. She loved the value, but her balcony cabin added to the cost. Want to explore similar options? Check out Chima Travel’s river cruise offerings.
What Factors Affect Danube River Cruise Costs?
Several factors drive the price of a Danube cruise. Here’s the breakdown:
Cruise Line
Budget lines like CroisiEurope offer simple amenities, keeping costs low (e.g., $2,231 for 5 nights). Luxury lines like Tauck include gourmet dining and private tours, pushing prices higher (e.g., $4,990 for 7 nights).
Itinerary and Duration
Shorter 5-night cruises are cheaper, while 7–11-night trips covering multiple countries (like Austria, Hungary, and Germany) cost more. A Budapest-to-Vienna route is less expensive than one hitting Nuremberg. Learn more about European destinations on Chima Travel’s Europe page.
Cabin Type
Standard cabins are affordable, but balcony cabins or suites can double the price. Viking’s standard cabin starts at $2,299, while a veranda suite might cost $4,000+.
Season
Peak season (June–August) is pricier. Shoulder seasons (April, May, or October) offer deals. Viking’s October 2025 cruise is $2,299, compared to $2,799 in June.
Inclusions
Some cruises are all-inclusive, covering meals, drinks, and excursions. Budget options may charge extra. AmaWaterways includes wine tastings, while budget lines may not.
Sample 2025 Danube River Cruise Prices
Here are real 2025 prices from River Cruise Advisor:
• Viking (Romantic Danube): 349/day.
• AmaWaterways (Legendary Danube): 553/day.
• Avalon (Danube Dreams): 572/day.
• CroisiEurope (Beautiful Blue Danube): 467/day.
• Scenic (Gems of the Danube): 592/day.
These are double-occupancy rates. Solo travelers may pay a supplement, so check with the cruise line or Chima Travel’s planning team. For more deals, visit TourRadar.
How to Save on a Danube River Cruise
Want to keep costs down? Try these tips:
• Book Early: Cruise lines offer early-bird discounts. My cousin saved 10% by booking his AmaWaterways cruise a year ahead.
• Travel Off-Peak: October or April sailings are 20–30% cheaper.
• Choose a Budget Line: Viking or CroisiEurope offer value. Explore options at Chima Travel’s river cruises.
• Pick a Standard Cabin: Skip the balcony to save hundreds.
• Compare Inclusions: A pricier cruise might include excursions, saving overall.
A travel agent can find hidden deals. Contact Chima Travel for personalized help.
What’s Included in the Cost?
Inclusions vary, so read the fine print. Most mid-range and luxury cruises cover:
• Meals and drinks (some include wine/beer).
• At least one excursion per port.
• Onboard entertainment (e.g., music or lectures).
Budget cruises might charge for tours or drinks. Viking includes one free excursion per port, but extra tours cost 100. Luxury lines like Tauck are fully all-inclusive, including tips.
Is a Danube River Cruise Worth the Cost?
Yes, if you love hassle-free travel! A Danube cruise packs multiple destinations into one trip, with no hotel changes or transport planning. You’ll see Vienna’s opera houses or Budapest’s Parliament with expert guides. Sarah said her cruise felt like a floating hotel with new views daily.
Budget travelers get great value at 2,000-3,000 compared to a multi-city trip. Luxury cruisers enjoy a 5-star experience, perfect for special occasions. Check Chima Travel’s destination guides to pick your must-see spots.
FAQs About Danube River Cruise Costs
When’s the cheapest time to book?
October or April, when prices drop. Booking 6–12 months out secures discounts.
Are drinks included?
Mid-range and luxury cruises often include wine/beer with meals. Budget cruises may charge extra.
How do I find deals?
Visit TourRadar or work with Chima Travel for promotions.
Is it cheaper through a travel agent?
Sometimes! Agents access exclusive deals and can bundle extras like travel insurance.
Plan Your Danube Adventure
A Danube River cruise is a fantastic way to explore Europe, with options for every budget. Whether you want Viking’s budget-friendly trip or Scenic’s luxury experience, plan ahead and compare inclusions. Ready to book? Visit Chima Travel’s river cruise page or contact their team for expert help.
Happy cruising!