Europe Connections

We have gathered these unique stories, recipes, interviews, and testimonials to enrich and inspire you before your journey with AmaWaterways. In anticipation of your upcoming river cruise, we hope you see how an unforgettable travel experience can truly be yours when sailing with us along the rivers of Europe, Asia, Africa and South America.

Experience these inaugural AmaWaterways journeys in 2025Read more
Debuting in 2025, our Celebration of Music: Imperial Danube itinerary caters to cruisers of all styles!Read more
Learn how to enhance your holiday meal experience with Cruise Manager Abel’s wine expertise.Read more
Practice these French words and phrases as you prepare for your river cruise through FranceRead more
From multiple excursion choices to four unique seasons, discover endless possibilities on the river.Read more
Learn the tales behind this mysterious medieval fortress overlooking Lahnstein, GermanyRead more
Discover the benefits of river cruising in the fall and winter months.Read more
Experience this highly-requested destination starting in 2025.Read more
What sets summer apart from other seasons in Europe?Read more
Guests Monique and Karen reminisce about our first-ever river cruise highlighting Black history and cultureRead more
This sweet autumn dessert is sure to make you smile!Read more
From romantic landscapes to unbeatable air fares, discover why February is an ideal month for river cruisesRead more
Chef Robert K. gives some insider details about what’s in season and shares a special soup recipe.Read more
Enjoy Cruise Manager Fintan’s recommended pairings of wine with chocolate.Read more
Have you tried our heartwarming version of this cold weather classic?Read more
Delight in this figgy cake and its festive historyRead more
Enjoy this well-loved recipe from the storied Bavarian regionRead more
Which river cruise journeys do families love the most?Read more
Enjoy a glimpse of the amazing sights you will see in BarcelonaRead more
There is more than mustard to whet your appetite in Dijon on our Flavors of Burgundy itineraryRead more
We are extending our Portugal sailing seasons – and here are a few reasons why you should join us on the Douro River in autumn or winter.Read more
Taste Vienna’s “King of Beef Dishes” while sailing the Danube RiverRead more
Sample this delicate dessert of the Danube RiverRead more
How one travel advisor’s Holiday River Cruise enhanced his passion for AmaWaterwaysRead more
From our warm welcome to our festive traditions, read why one family loved their holiday sailing.Read more
Plan a special vacation for your special someone with some of our favorite Europe experiencesRead more
This Simple Cocktail Is an Onboard FavoriteRead more
Discover seasonal highlights along the rivers of FranceRead more
Peeling Back the Layers of a Danube DelicacyRead more
Discover two beautiful Swiss cities as a part of your extended Rhine River journey and catch a glimpse of Alpine peaks in the distance.Read more
Plant your roots along Europe’s rivers on excursions highlighting gardens and colorful bloomsRead more
Whip up a batch at home or taste this delicious dish on the Rhine River.Read more
These mouth-watering almond crescent biscuits perfectly pair with a hot drink and crisp winter air.Read more
Discover Clam Castle in the hills of AustriaRead more
Discover Utrecht’s picturesque canals, whimsical castles, and underground historyRead more
Not-to-be-missed amenities and services on our most innovative shipRead more
Cruise Managers Iúri and Cesário share their favorite experiences in Portugal and their love of the Douro RiverRead more
Feel the holiday magic of Provençal Christmas celebrationsRead more
Our Director of European Operations, Wade, shares his love for the quaint town of SpitzRead more
Discover rich history, delicious beer and a dark legend on our optional land package.Read more
8 Reasons why our innovative river cruise ships are the highest rated in EuropeRead more
Discover the fascinating Jewish history along the Danube River.Read more
Why our optional land package in Spain’s capital is not to be missed.Read more
Visit the Provençal town of Arles and look back upon the incredible life of Vincent van Gogh.Read more
Why now is the time to sail two or more rivers – or reserve an extended journeyRead more
Cruise Manager Luis shares what he loves the most about our Douro River itineraries.Read more
Our Director of European Operations shares his favorite experiences on one of our newest sailings.Read more
Culinary Director Robert Kellerhals shares his background, passion and secrets of the kitchenRead more
Discover unique Easter holiday traditions and delights during select springtime river cruise and land itineraries.Read more
Our very own Jasmina shares unique Orthodox traditions and highlights of Serbia’s Winter Markets.Read more
What do a fearsome dragon, a brave bugler and Oskar Schindler all have in common? Kraków.Read more
Indulge your sweet tooth on our most enticing included excursionsRead more
Learn more about the fascinating significance behind these wonders of historyRead more
Plan a longer journey in Europe as The Paquins have during their incredible river cruise experiencesRead more
The Making of our First-Ever Music VideoRead more
A first-time river cruiser shares her experience on Melodies of the DanubeRead more
Bavaria's rich heritage lives on through timeless customs.Read more
Glühwein: an essential part of winter in EuropeRead more
Rave reviews from a loyal gluten-free guestRead more
Discover why you should river cruise with AmaWaterways in Europe during the springtime.Read more
Learn how to make our Cruise Manager’s favorite bacalahau à brás.Read more
Part two of our two-part story on the history and future of AmaWaterwaysRead more
Discover fascinating destinations from a different perspective.Read more
Part one of a two-part story on the Godfather of River Cruising and AmaWaterways’ historyRead more
Humanitarian at heart, Geneva captures the essence of peace, beauty and nature.Read more
Co-Owner Gary Murphy shares why our Holiday Cruises are perfect for families.Read more
One of our longest-serving employees shares how he fell in love with AmaWaterwaysRead more
A first-time river cruiser shares her Christmas Markets on the Rhine experience.Read more
A foodie shares why our Danube River cruises are a must for discerning palates.Read more
Fun for All Ages and Activity Levels Along the Danube RiverRead more
Chef Joanne Weir shares a delightful Danube River-inspired recipe.Read more
A refreshing treat from Chef Joanne Weir.Read more
Discover the AmaWaterways experience in on our included excursions in Cologne, GermanyRead more
Explorations, discoveries and breathtaking sights from charming Brittany.Read more
Discover how a longstanding naval tradition has enhanced our AmaWaterways family.Read more
A triathlete shares recommendations from his Romantic Danube sailing.Read more
A very special vow renewal on board the AmaMagna.Read more
Unique in its radiance, an ancient oil lamp sparked a celebration that’s lasted for centuries: a true miracle.Read more
See Lake Como, Italy, as part of our full Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps river cruise and land journey.Read more
Find out why one guest loves our signature twin-balcony staterooms.Read more
Whether on the Mekong River or in your own kitchen, this chilled pineapple soup is perfect for cooling down any occasion.Read more
As the clock rolls over, what are different countries doing to celebrate?Read more
Christmastime in Budapest is like no place else in the world.Read more
Between our luxurious onboard gala and local celebrations, there’s nothing quite like a New Year’s cruise with AmaWaterways.Read more
Ancient history comes to life in Turkey’s largest and most intriguing city.Read more
Discover what makes France’s Nice worthy of an extended visit.Read more
A passionate Wine Host shares pairing suggestions and moreRead more
Learn more about the history-making canal that made modern river cruising possible!Read more
Past guest Carl Stumpe traveled with his wife and adult children on our Iconic Christmas Markets cruise. We interviewed Carl and his daughter Anne about their family travel experience below.Read more
Austrians love their pumpkins – and have turned pumpkinseed oil into a delicacy.Read more
Authentic Basque chicken is made with a pepper as elite as French Champagne.Read more
Just two decades into a major renaissance, the charming city of Bilbao, Spain, is a fascinating destination in which to extend your Taste of Bordeaux cruise.Read more
Laura and Brian Wright renewed their vows on the Danube River in 2018.Read more
Collin Pritchard’s first trip to Europe was on an AmaWaterways Christmas Market cruise on the Danube River in December 2017. Read on to hear what he thought of the experience.Read more
Hike or bike through the enchanting scenery along the majestic Danube River on our included excursions.Read more
“Basque” in the culture of Northern Spain on our 4-night land package in Bilbao and San Sebastian.Read more
Loyal guest Olis Cook has completed eight sailings with AmaWaterways throughout Europe.Read more
Perfect as an afternoon treat or a light dessert, chilled strawberry soup is the perfect seasonal recipe for summers in Provence—or anywhere in hot weather!Read more
A gastronomic tradition dating as far back as 1248, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs ("The Royal Guild of Goose Roasters") has come a long way from roasting geese.Read more
There’s no better place to discover rich culture than within Vienna’s enthralling museums.Read more
Forget the Easter Bunny—French Easter traditions delight people from the sky to the sea!Read more
A black cat, witches and other real-life characters from the storied Moselle River Valley.Read more
Wiener Schnitzel: Not Just an American Hot Dog Stand.Read more
Amsterdam offers more than its legendary canals and tulips: the city is also home to world-renowned art museums.Read more
Turn your holiday meal into an extraordinary experience with some sensational wine choices.Read more
Though many variations of Goulash exist, ours is a traditional, authentic recipe from the very heart of Hungary.Read more
Common German Words and PhrasesRead more
“Lying along the banks of Alte Donau Lake, tree-lined pathways offer visitors an idyllic location to experience the area’s natural beauty. “Read more
Originally known as the Brussels waffle, named for the capital city from which it comes, this waffle is so crisp and light, it nearly melts in your mouth.Read more
Onion soup has been savored throughout Europe since the ancient Romans first began creating this delectable dish.Read more
Every August, thousands of intrepid swimmers go with the flow on Rhine Swim Day.Read more
Basic Words and Phrases to Know in DutchRead more
The French, picturesque town of Strasbourg is the capital of Alsace, and one of France’s most beautiful cities.Read more
Culture and history abound in the beautiful town of Bernkastel on the Moselle River.Read more
The hills are alive with the sound of music in the stunningly historic town of Salzburg, Austria.Read more
Nestled in the French countryside between Libourne and Castillon-la-Bataille, the small village of Saint-Émilion is a jewel of the Bordeaux wine region.Read more
Sail through the Danube and discover why travelers flock to this mighty river every year to extol its wondrous treasures.Read more
Germany is at its most beguiling as you float through the Rhine ValleyRead more
This delectable treat has been enjoyed by the French since 1691Read more
Black Forest Cake is always a delicious treat.Read more
Try this traditional German SauerbratenRead more
A traditional treat is Lamb Navarin Stew.Read more
You can serve it as an appetizer or make it the star of the meal.Read more
The history, allure and flavor of the culinary world's "Black Diamonds"Read more
There are probably few Bavarian cities as gorgeous as Passau.Read more
Joan of Arc, Claude Monet, Roy Lichtenstein, Victor Hugo, J.M.W. Turner, the Hundred Years’ War and structures and architecture from the Middle Ages and Renaissance times.Read more
Imagine toasting to the good life aboard an AmaWaterways river cruiseRead more
Go for the wines, but say it’s for the history.Read more
There are few things as quintessentially French as cycling through the French countryside.Read more
There’s no better way to spend a day than cycling through the charming streets of Antwerp, perhaps even stopping for a taste of delicious Belgian chocolates or wafflesRead more
Vienne, while located in southeastern France, is very much a Roman city.Read more
Looking for a slice of Greece in Germany? Look no further than the stunning Walhalla.Read more
Party like an all star when visiting Austria.Read more
Imagine toasting with the perfect glass of sparkling Brut Reserve or a dry, late harvest Riesling or a peppery, fruity Grüner Veltliner right in the Kremstal valley?Read more
Is there any more perfect pairing for wine than a blend of classical romance and legendary chivalry?Read more
Thirsting for a papal history lesson as you enjoy a nuanced, flavorful wine with sumptuous texture, intensity and heavenly aromatics including black currants, blackberries and herbs de Provence?Read more
Actually, the “Verde” in “Vinho Verde” does not stand for the color green, but rather it refers to green in the context of being young or youthful.Read more
Think Port wine is the only sweet wine under the proverbial Portuguese sun? Well, think again.Read more
Hermitage, a French wine Appellation d’Origine Controlée (AOC), is one of the most sought-after wines in the world.Read more
Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, Johnny Cash and June Carter, red wine and chocolate. Some of the best things in life just go even better together.Read more
Austria’s iconic Wachau Valley, a UNESCO-designated World Heritage Site, is not only home to some of the most charming towns and villages but also stunning scenic views and lush vineyards.Read more
Why just settle for a regular cup of joe? Or even a specially whipped up espresso or caffé macchiato when you can indulge in a classic Rüdesheimer kaffee (aka Rüdesheimer coffee).Read more
How many monks does it take to develop the world-class liqueur of the illustrious Fécamp Monastery, still being served hundreds of years after its introduction?Read more
Imagine yourself a part of a Monet masterpiece as you step into his lovely gardens at Giverny.Read more
On June 6, 1944 in the early morning hours, more than 156,000 Allied soldiers stormed the usually tranquil and serene beaches off the coast of Normandy.Read more
Montmartre’s legendary La Vie Bohème – still the bohemian heart and soul of Parisian chic – has long been a siren call to artists and revolutionary thinkersRead more
Stepping through the Loire Valley is a bit like stepping back in timeRead more
One of the greatest military engineers of all time, Sébastian Le Prestre de Vauban built the famed citadel of Blaye in the 17th century to protect Bordeaux.Read more
Imagine getting into the yuletide spirit in romantic Vienna, singing your favorite Christmas melodies in one of the musical capitals of the world.Read more
Santa can’t have all the traveling fun during the holiday season. And part of the joy of traveling to the European Christmas Markets is learning about unique traditions along the way.Read more
Deck the halls for a festive winter wonderland this year as you sip hot chocolate, double down on gingerbread of all yummy shapes and sizes, sing delightful new and classic yuletide holiday staplesRead more
Franz Kafka, known for his 20th century writings on anxiety, alienation and impersonal bureaucracy, is also celebrated as one of the most important writers of modern times.Read more
Prague -- the Czech Republic’s dazzling capital city, home to over a million people and with over 1,100 years of fascinating history to explore – is one of the most exciting European cities to visit.Read more
No need to adjust your beer goggles: when you visit Pilzen, you’re sure to be seeing (and drinking) beer just about everywhere.Read more
Travel back in time to explore the beautifully preserved medieval town of Český KrumlovRead more
If diamonds are a girl’s best friend, then Antwerp is the friendliest city there is – seeing how it is the world’s most important diamond cutting center.Read more
Chocolate lovers everywhere, rejoice! And set your sights on Vienna, that glittering city of kaffehaus culture and scrumptious cakes.Read more
Gilded, glittering glamor whose opulent beauty only rivals Versailles – and Schönbrunn Palace was originally just supposed to be a summer residence.Read more
Mouthwatering bites (or full-on meals)...Read more
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Johann Strauss II – with native sons like these, it’s no wonder that classical music continues to reverberate through the streets of Austria – particularly Vienna.Read more
Castles are always in style – but in 1870s Germany, they were positively en vogue.Read more
“Drinking a Kölsch beer is more than just drinking a beer: it’s like drinking an entire culture.”Read more
Red sandstone ruins, majestic views over the Neckar Valley and green forests, the world’s largest wine barrel – the castle of Heidelberg is one of Germany’s most charming and romantic sights.Read more
Seemingly straight from the pages of an old German fairytale….Read more
Painter, printmaker, theorist: Nuremberg’s most famous artist-in-residence was Renaissance master Albrecht Dürer (1471-1528).Read more
Why just travel when you can travel back in time?Read more
When Walt Disney’s impressed by the fairytale charms of a town, you know something truly magical awaits.Read more
Ever been jealous of the presidents carved into Mount Rushmore? After all, fame may be fleeting – but mountain sculptures tend to be rather permanent.Read more
Modern day Serbia is thriving with a revitalized nightlife and café culture, reemerging as one of the most vibrant cultural epicenters of Eastern Europe.Read more
“If I had never come here, I would have regretted it.” So said Empress Maria Theresa, in describing Melk Abbey.Read more
Return to a land of kings and queens, knights and ladies, and fables and legends in the ancient medieval city of Veliko Tarnovo and its Tsarevets Castle.Read more
Welcome to the grand cosmopolitan city of Budapest – long a center of great beauty, elegance and sophistication.Read more
Dürnstein is one of the most visited regions in the iconic Wachau Valley...Read more
Walk the streets of lovely Luxembourg...Read more
Look back to the 1600s, when the Netherlands kicked off their own mania trend with… tulips.Read more
Get swept up in our excitement for the brand-new AmaKristina, which will debut in 2017 on the Rhine.Read more
What better city to visit on a river cruise than stunning Amsterdam?Read more
Lisbon is currently one of the hotspots of European travel so take a page from the daring explorers that set sail from this magnificent city during the Age of Discovery.Read more
You’ll want to drink up more than the stunning scenery and incredible history during your visit to Portugal...Read more
In lovely Sintra, it’s not just romance that’s in the air… but fairytale castles that seemingly rise above the clouds.Read more
“Everything you can imagine is real.” So said artist and legend Pablo Picasso.Read more
Not all German legends have been turned into hit animated movies… at least not yet.Read more
During the festive Christmas Market season in Cologne, it won’t just be the Hohenzollern Bridge that will keep your eyes all aglow on your visit.Read more
What could be more romantic for the holidays than kissing under the mistletoe in Strasbourg?Read more
Visit the Christmas Markets in Zurich and see how the city shines like its Swarovski decorations.Read more
Have a wickedly good time as you take a bite off your bucket list, visiting the castle that inspired the story of Dracula in legendary Transylvania.Read more
Novi Sad’s legendary Petrovaradin Fortress is the military command you only wish you dreamt up as a kid.Read more
Let the beauty of Bratislava come alive as you visit one of the most exciting cities in Europe, rich in history and architecture.Read more
Experience a passionate Flamenco performance during an evening with AmaWaterwaysRead more
With buzzing plazas, a rich history and a golden horizon, Salamanca is not one to missRead more
Stunning Zurich is an indulgent feast for the eyes – as much as the taste buds and other senses.Read more
Celebrate life’s sweetest moments with an intoxicating pairing of ultra-rich, honeyed Sauternes wine from Bordeaux.Read more