Follow the route of emperors, kings and queens on a magnificent European journey along three rivers and through five fascinating countries. The natural wonders of the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers yield way to countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Cologne’s Gothic Cathedral, the Würzburg Residenz Palace, the charming Old Towns of Bamberg and Regensburg, and the Melk Abbey—to name a few. Whimsical delights from Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim to the crooked houses in Miltenberg, will enchant. Connoisseurs of fine wines get to taste the difference between German and Austrian Rieslings; and gourmets get to indulge in Western and Eastern European specialties. And for active enthusiasts, you will get to hike and bike through breathtaking scenery in Passau, Dürnstein and Vienna. All of this and more awaits on one all-encompassing magnificent journey.
Follow the route of emperors and kings on a magnificent European journey along three great rivers through five fascinating countries. From Amsterdam, travel on the Rhine river to Cologne, with its breathtaking cathedral. Continue cruising along the beautiful Rhine Gorge and then through the Main-Danube Canal, an engineering masterpiece, as you traverse Europe’s Continental Divide. Discover the culture and traditions of such grand old capitals as Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. Along the way, you’ll see perfectly preserved medieval towns and Europe’s loveliest countryside.
COUNTRIES:
, Austria, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Slovakia
RIVERS:
Rhine, Danube, Main
Magnificent Europe
At A Glance
Follow the route of emperors, kings and queens on a magnificent European journey. The natural wonders
of the Danube, Main and Rhine yield way to countless UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Cologne’s Gothic
Cathedral, the Würzburg Residenz Palace, the Old Towns of Bamberg and Regensburg, and Melk
Abbey—to name a few. Whimsical delights from Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum
to Miltenberg’s crooked houses enchant. German and Austrian Rieslings please the palate while stunning
scenery entices on hiking and biking adventures.
| Day 1 | Amsterdam | EMBARKATION |
|
Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Magnificent Europe cruise. (D)
| Day 2 | Amsterdam | Canal cruise |
|
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
| Day 3 | Cologne | “Holy City” walking tour and cathedral visit |
|
Enjoy cruising to Cologne, home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic
masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral. For a different view of the city, visit a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer, only
made in Cologne, and reibekuchen mit apfelmus, potato pancakes typically served with applesauce. Active
adventurers will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine. (B,L,D)
| Day 4 | Rhine Gorge | Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising |
|
| Rüdesheim | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum |
|
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the
most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river, before reaching Rüdesheim. Wine connoisseurs will want to
go on a walking tour through the vineyards where you’ll stop to sample wines at three different tasting stations.
Or choose to drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the
Niederwalddenkmal Statue. For a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum charm you, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Miltenberg | “The Pearl of the Main” walking tour |
|
| | OR Miltenberg Castle hike |
|
| | OR Pretzel bakery visit and tasting |
|
Enjoy a scenic cruise to Miltenberg, the “Pearl of the Main River.” While on your walking tour, you’ll discover why this medieval town seems to leap from the pages of a fairytale with its 14th- and 15th-century half-timbered, gabled houses; the famed Crooked House; and the venerable Royal Inn. For those who would like a more active adventure, hike to the Miltenberg Castle, offering majestic views of
the town and river; or go on a guided bike ride along the Main River. Later in the day, set sail for Wertheim, considered to have one of Germany’s most beautiful city centers. While here, join a walking tour or go to a
pretzel bakery for a delicious tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Würzburg | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Marienberg Fortress hike |
|
You have several choices of excursions. Join a walking tour of Würzburg nestled along
the “Romantic Road,” or visit its crown jewel, the Baroque Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you prefer to get more active, hike up to the Marienberg Fortress, the most prominent landmark on the left bank of the Main River in Würzburg. Alternatively, go to Rothenburg, the best-preserved medieval town in Germany. The town is so pretty that the imagery of Walt Disney’s Pinocchio was very much influenced by sketches of Rothenburg. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Bamberg | UNESCO city walking tour and smoked beer tasting |
|
Explore enchanting Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in one of three ways.
Join a guided walking tour of this medieval gem to see its cathedral, Old Town Hall and elegant old mansions.
Or taste your way through the city sampling smoked beer, licorice root and Hornla, a pastry. And for a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Nuremberg | WWII city tour |
|
You have three choices of excursions while in Nuremberg. Enjoy a guided tour
through this well-preserved medieval city, showcasing the Imperial Castle, famous town wall and the legendary
fountain of the Market Square. Or turn back the pages of a darker history with a guided tour of the city’s most
important WWII sites, including the coliseum. You’ll also visit the Nuremberg Trials Memoriam and Courtroom
600, if the courtroom is not in session. Alternatively, partake in a traditional Franconian specialties tasting of
famous Nuremburger bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread). Later in the day, cruise through
the man-made marvel, the Main-Danube Canal. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Regensburg | UNESCO city walking tour |
|
Explore one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, Regensburg, on a guided
walking tour showcasing the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavaria’s specialties—beer, sausage and pretzels. And for a more active
adventure, bike to Walhalla where you will see the neoclassical white marble temple. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
Discover Passau in one of three ways. Enjoy a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian
Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Guests looking for a more active morning can choose between a
guided bike tour along the Danube, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Melk | Benedictine Abbey tour |
|
| Wachau Valley | Wachau Valley UNESCO scenic cruising |
|
| | OR Melk to Dürnstein bike tour |
|
| Dürnstein | Dürnstein Walking tour and wine tasting |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Apricots and Sweets tasting |
|
Cruise to Melk, known for its magnificent Benedictine Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also join a guided bike tour along the Danube, and if you would like, you can bike later in the day further along the Danube through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley that will take
you to Dürnstein. For those not biking, you’ll cruise through the Wachau Valley to Dürnstein. Once here, you
have a choice of excursions. Partake in a walking tour along cobblestone streets to the Baroque Stiftskirche
before enjoying a local wine tasting. For a more active adventure, hike up to the fortress where Richard the
Lionheart was once held. You may also choose to visit a local apricot grower, where you’ll be treated to the finest
apricot products in the region. (B,L,D)
| Day 12 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna By Bike (city tour of Vienna on Bike) |
|
The heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna, remains as renowned today as it has
throughout history. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site awash with Baroque treasures. Your
city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of
the Habsburgs. Conclude in Vienna’s historic city center and then visit the majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which
has stood watch over Vienna for 700 years and is one of the most important and beloved landmarks in Austria.
For a more active exploration of the area, take a guided bike ride that includes opportunities to see all of the sites listed above as well as the majestic Ringstrasse, Vienna’s famed ring road, lined with grand buildings, monuments and parks. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
| Day 13 | Bratislava | “Coronation City” walking tour |
|
| | OR Bratislava Castle hike |
|
Sail to the “Coronation City of Kings,” where you can join a walking tour or choose instead to enjoy a “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For those who wish a more active exploration, hike up to Bratislava Castle for magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
| Day 14 | Budapest | “Queen of the Danube” tour |
|
Discover the “Queen of the Danube” on your city tour beginning with a visit to the Great Market Hall followed by a panoramic tour of both the Buda and the Pest sides of the river. As an alternative choice, hike up to Castle Hill. (B,L,D)
| Day 15 | Budapest | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Bid adieu to Budapest and prepare for your flight home. (B)
Arrive in Budapest and board your luxury cruise ship. Spend the evening on board cruising around the famed Parliament Building as the city turns on all her dazzling lights. (D)
| Day 2 | Budapest | “Queen of the Danube” tour |
|
Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Buda Castle quarter in Castle Hill and Heroes’ Square, Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture, tradition and even a secret labyrinth of caves and caverns under the city. Your city tour begins with a visit to the vibrant Great Market Hall brimming with vendors selling everything from food to souvenirs. The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river (B).
| Day 3 | Bratislava | “Coronation City” walking tour |
|
| | OR Bratislava Castle hike |
|
Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title “Coronation City of Kings” as you’ll discover during your walking tour. Or join a culinary host to sample traditional Slovakian specialties, as well as learn how to prepare stuffed potato ravioli with an opportunity to taste your own creation. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
| Day 4 | Vienna | Vienna City Tour |
|
| | OR Vienna By Bike (city tour of Vienna on Bike) |
|
The heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna, remains as renowned today as it has throughout history. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site awash with Baroque treasures. Your city tour showcases the majestic Opera House and majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which has stood watch over Vienna for 700 years and is one of the most important and beloved landmarks in Austria. Or, if you prefer to go on a more active adventure, then join a guided bike tour through Vienna. The afternoon is yours to stroll along the Kartnerstrasse, the most prestigious shopping street in central Vienna, or sample Vienna's famous pastries. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Dürnstein | Walking tour & wine tasting |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike |
|
| Wachau Valley | UNESCO scenic cruising |
|
| Melk | Benedictine Abbey tour |
|
After reaching the Wachau Valley in the morning, you’ll have a choice of three excursions in Dürnstein. Partake in a walking tour along cobblestone streets to the luminous blue facade of the Baroque Stiftskirche, its famed church tower, before enjoying a wine tasting in a local cellar. For a beautiful view of the Wachau Valley, hike up to the fortress where Richard the Lionheart was once held. Alternatively, visit a local boutique, where you’ll be treated to the region’s finest apricot products. After your morning excursions, you have a choice to cruise through the Wachau Valley to Melk or join a bike tour along the Danube. Upon reaching Melk, take a tour of the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
Enjoy a scenic morning sailing to the medieval city of Passau. Join a walking tour through this 2,000-year-old city, noted for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Guests looking for a more active morning can choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress overlooking Passau. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Regensburg | UNESCO city walking tour |
|
Explore Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a guided walking tour showcasing the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavaria’s specialties— beer, sausage and pretzels; or bike to Walhalla where you'll see the neo-Classical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Nuremberg | Medieval city tour |
|
Enjoy a scenic morning cruise as the ship crosses the Continental Divide via the Main-Danube Canal to Nuremberg. Explore the medieval city center with a tour that showcases the Imperial Castle and the famous town wall, as well as Albrecht Dürer’s home and Market Square with its legendary fountain. Or you can take a guided tour of the city’s WWII history, including a visit to the infamous Zeppelin Field, a museum built on the site of former Nazi rallies and the site of the Nuremberg Trials when not in session. Alternatively, savor traditional Franconian specialties by sampling famously delicious Nuremburger Bratwurst, Rot bier (red beer) and Lebkuchen (gingerbread). (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Bamberg | UNESCO walking tour and smoked beer tasting |
|
Explore enchanting Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in one of three ways. Join a guided walking tour of this medieval gem to see its cathedral, Old Town Hall and elegant old mansions. Or taste your way through the city with tastings of smoked beer, licorice root and Hornla, a pastry. And for a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Würzburg | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Marienberg Fortress hike |
|
Nestled along the “Romantic Road” lies Würzburg. Join a walking tour of this beautiful city, or visit its crown jewel, the Baroque Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get more active with a hike up to the Marienberg Fortress, the most prominent landmark on the left bank of the Main River in Würzburg. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Wertheim | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Pretzel bakery visit and tasting |
|
| Miltenberg | “The Pearl of the Main” walking tour |
|
| | OR Miltenberg Castle hike |
|
Enjoy a walking tour of Wertheim, which has one of the most beautiful city centers in Germany. Those wishing to learn more about the art of pretzel making can join a demonstration and tasting, and for the more actively inclined, go on a guided bike tour. Later visit Miltenberg, with its fairytale half-timbered houses, Crooked House and Royal Inn. While on your walking tour of Miltenberg, discover why this medieval town seems to leap from the pages of a fairytale; or if you prefer to explore Miltenberg more actively, go on a hike. (B,L,D)
| Day 12 | Rüdesheim | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum |
|
Rüdesheim is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. With a history stemming from Roman times, Rüdesheim is known for its winemaking, the medieval lane of Drosselgasse, Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Cabinet and Rüdesheimer coffee. You have a variety of ways to explore, depending on your interest. Drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue. Prefer to indulge in a bit of whimsy, then visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments. You also have the choice to taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer Coffee, ceremoniously made with warm brandy. (B,L,D)
| Day 13 | Rhine Gorge | Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising |
|
| Cologne | “Holy City” walking tour and cathedral visit |
|
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river, en route to Cologne, home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral. Continue to the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall, the Overstolzenhaus and the Festival Hall. For a different view of the city, visit a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer, only made in Cologne, and Reibekuchen, potato pancakes typically served with apple sauce. Active adventurists will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten. (B,L,D)
| Day 14 | Amsterdam | Canal cruise and city tour |
|
Discover Amsterdam’s iconic canals and leaning houses with a scenic canal cruise. Continue with a walk to the Begijnhof and be charmed by its historic buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. Later in the day, set sail. (B,L,D)
| Day 15 | Amsterdam | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Disembark the ship and you prepare for your flight home. (B)
| Day 1 | Amsterdam | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Amsterdam and check into your hotel.
| Day 2 | Amsterdam | Walking tour |
|
Get acquainted with the Netherlands’ largest city, Amsterdam, boasting history,
art, architecture, bridges, canals, cobblestone streets, world-class museums, bicycles and narrow alleys on a city
tour. Afterwards, enjoy leisure time exploring the city even more; perhaps visit one of its many prestigious museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, home to Rembrandt’s The Night Watch and Vermeer’s The Kitchen Maid. (B)
| Day 3 | Amsterdam | Zaanse Schanse visit |
|
Check out of your hotel and before transferring to your ship, visit Zaanse Schans, where you can observe life as it used to be lived in the Netherlands. Authentic windmills, houses, and shops were relocated to this picturesque area, creating a typical 17th- to 18th-century village. (B,D)
| Day 4 | Amsterdam | Canal cruise |
|
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Cologne | “Holy City” walking tour and cathedral visit |
|
Enjoy cruising to Cologne, home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic
masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral. For a different view of the city, visit a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer, only
made in Cologne, and reibekuchen mit apfelmus, potato pancakes typically served with applesauce. Active
adventurers will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Rhine Gorge | Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising |
|
| Rüdesheim | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum |
|
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the
most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river, before reaching Rüdesheim. Wine connoisseurs will want to
go on a walking tour through the vineyards where you’ll stop to sample wines at three different tasting stations.
Or choose to drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the
Niederwalddenkmal Statue. For a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum charm you, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Miltenberg | “The Pearl of the Main” walking tour |
|
| | OR Miltenberg Castle hike |
|
| | OR Pretzel bakery visit and tasting |
|
Enjoy a scenic cruise to Miltenberg, the “Pearl of the Main River.” While on your walking tour, you’ll discover why this medieval town seems to leap from the pages of a fairytale with its 14th- and 15th-century half-timbered, gabled houses; the famed Crooked House; and the venerable Royal Inn. For those who would like a more active adventure, hike to the Miltenberg Castle, offering majestic views of
the town and river; or go on a guided bike ride along the Main River. Later in the day, set sail for Wertheim, considered to have one of Germany’s most beautiful city centers. While here, join a walking tour or go to a
pretzel bakery for a delicious tasting. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Würzburg | Walking tour |
|
| | OR Marienberg Fortress hike |
|
You have several choices of excursions. Join a walking tour of Würzburg nestled along
the “Romantic Road,” or visit its crown jewel, the Baroque Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you prefer to get more active, hike up to the Marienberg Fortress, the most prominent landmark on the left bank of the Main River in Würzburg. Alternatively, go to Rothenburg, the best-preserved medieval town in Germany. The town is so pretty that the imagery of Walt Disney’s Pinocchio was very much influenced by sketches of Rothenburg. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Bamberg | UNESCO city walking tour and smoked beer tasting |
|
Explore enchanting Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in one of three ways.
Join a guided walking tour of this medieval gem to see its cathedral, Old Town Hall and elegant old mansions.
Or taste your way through the city sampling smoked beer, licorice root and Hornla, a pastry. And for a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Nuremberg | WWII city tour |
|
You have three choices of excursions while in Nuremberg. Enjoy a guided tour
through this well-preserved medieval city, showcasing the Imperial Castle, famous town wall and the legendary
fountain of the Market Square. Or turn back the pages of a darker history with a guided tour of the city’s most
important WWII sites, including the coliseum. You’ll also visit the Nuremberg Trials Memoriam and Courtroom
600, if the courtroom is not in session. Alternatively, partake in a traditional Franconian specialties tasting of
famous Nuremburger bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread). Later in the day, cruise through
the man-made marvel, the Main-Danube Canal. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Regensburg | UNESCO city walking tour |
|
Explore one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, Regensburg, on a guided
walking tour showcasing the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavaria’s specialties—beer, sausage and pretzels. And for a more active
adventure, bike to Walhalla where you will see the neoclassical white marble temple. (B,L,D)
| Day 12 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
Discover Passau in one of three ways. Enjoy a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian
Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Guests looking for a more active morning can choose between a
guided bike tour along the Danube, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress. (B,L,D)
| Day 13 | Melk | Benedictine Abbey tour |
|
| Wachau Valley | Wachau Valley UNESCO scenic cruising |
|
| | OR Melk to Dürnstein bike tour |
|
| Dürnstein | Dürnstein Walking tour and wine tasting |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Apricots and Sweets tasting |
|
Cruise to Melk, known for its magnificent Benedictine Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also join a guided bike tour along the Danube, and if you would like, you can bike later in the day further along the Danube through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley that will take
you to Dürnstein. For those not biking, you’ll cruise through the Wachau Valley to Dürnstein. Once here, you
have a choice of excursions. Partake in a walking tour along cobblestone streets to the Baroque Stiftskirche
before enjoying a local wine tasting. For a more active adventure, hike up to the fortress where Richard the
Lionheart was once held. You may also choose to visit a local apricot grower, where you’ll be treated to the finest
apricot products in the region. (B,L,D)
| Day 14 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna By Bike (city tour of Vienna on Bike) |
|
The heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna, remains as renowned today as it has
throughout history. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site awash with Baroque treasures. Your
city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of
the Habsburgs. Conclude in Vienna’s historic city center and then visit the majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which
has stood watch over Vienna for 700 years and is one of the most important and beloved landmarks in Austria.
For a more active exploration of the area, take a guided bike ride that includes opportunities to see all of the sites listed above as well as the majestic Ringstrasse, Vienna’s famed ring road, lined with grand buildings, monuments and parks. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
| Day 15 | Bratislava | “Coronation City” walking tour |
|
| | OR Bratislava Castle hike |
|
Sail to the “Coronation City of Kings,” where you can join a walking tour or choose instead to enjoy a “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For those who wish a more active exploration, hike up to Bratislava Castle for magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
| Day 16 | Budapest | “Queen of the Danube” tour |
|
Discover the “Queen of the Danube” on your city tour beginning with a visit to the Great Market Hall followed by a panoramic tour of both the Buda and the Pest sides of the river. As an alternative choice, hike up to Castle Hill. (B,L,D)
| Day 17 | Budapest | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Bid adieu to Budapest and prepare for your flight home. (B)
| Day 1 | Budapest | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Budapest and transfer to your hotel.
| Day 2 | Budapest | “Hidden Budapest” tour |
|
Once the co-capital of the Austro-Hungarian empire (along with Vienna), Budapest is one of Europe’s most regal and storied cities—and many of its most iconic sights can be seen right off the banks of the Danube. Today’s tour takes you to another side of Budapest to the Jewish Quarter, where there are some real treasures. The Great Synagogue, the largest Synagogue in Europe and the second largest in the world, located in Dohány Street represents the beating heart of this quarter. Other prominent attractions include the Holocaust Memorial, a weeping willow tree with the names of Hungarian Jews killed during the Holocaust inscribed on each leaf; and the Shoes on the Danube, a memorial to the Budapest Jews who were shot by Arrow Cross militiamen between 1944 and 1945. (B)
Check out of your hotel to board your luxurious ship. During the evening, be treated to a special Illuminations cruise around Budapest’s famed Parliament building as at night, the city virtually glitters as these landmarks are awash in lights. (B,D)
| Day 4 | Budapest | “Queen of the Danube” tour |
|
Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Buda Castle quarter in Castle Hill and Heroes’ Square, Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture, tradition and even a secret labyrinth of caves and caverns under the city. Your city tour begins with a visit to the vibrant Great Market Hall brimming with vendors selling everything from food to souvenirs. The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river (B).
| Day 5 | Bratislava | “Coronation City” walking tour |
|
| | OR Bratislava Castle hike |
|
Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title “Coronation City of Kings” as you’ll discover during your walking tour. Or join a culinary host to sample traditional Slovakian specialties, as well as learn how to prepare stuffed potato ravioli with an opportunity to taste your own creation. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Vienna | Vienna City Tour |
|
| | OR Vienna By Bike (city tour of Vienna on Bike) |
|
The heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna, remains as renowned today as it has throughout history. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site awash with Baroque treasures. Your city tour showcases the majestic Opera House and majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which has stood watch over Vienna for 700 years and is one of the most important and beloved landmarks in Austria. Or, if you prefer to go on a more active adventure, then join a guided bike tour through Vienna. The afternoon is yours to stroll along the Kartnerstrasse, the most prestigious shopping street in central Vienna, or sample Vienna's famous pastries. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Dürnstein | Walking tour & wine tasting |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike |
|
| Wachau Valley | UNESCO scenic cruising |
|
| Melk | Benedictine Abbey tour |
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After reaching the Wachau Valley in the morning, you’ll have a choice of three excursions in Dürnstein. Partake in a walking tour along cobblestone streets to the luminous blue facade of the Baroque Stiftskirche, its famed church tower, before enjoying a wine tasting in a local cellar. For a beautiful view of the Wachau Valley, hike up to the fortress where Richard the Lionheart was once held. Alternatively, visit a local boutique, where you’ll be treated to the region’s finest apricot products. After your morning excursions, you have a choice to cruise through the Wachau Valley to Melk or join a bike tour along the Danube. Upon reaching Melk, take a tour of the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
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Enjoy a scenic morning sailing to the medieval city of Passau. Join a walking tour through this 2,000-year-old city, noted for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Guests looking for a more active morning can choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress overlooking Passau. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Regensburg | UNESCO city walking tour |
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Explore Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a guided walking tour showcasing the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria, gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavaria’s specialties— beer, sausage and pretzels; or bike to Walhalla where you'll see the neo-Classical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Nuremberg | Medieval city tour |
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Enjoy a scenic morning cruise as the ship crosses the Continental Divide via the Main-Danube Canal to Nuremberg. Explore the medieval city center with a tour that showcases the Imperial Castle and the famous town wall, as well as Albrecht Dürer’s home and Market Square with its legendary fountain. Or you can take a guided tour of the city’s WWII history, including a visit to the infamous Zeppelin Field, a museum built on the site of former Nazi rallies and the site of the Nuremberg Trials when not in session. Alternatively, savor traditional Franconian specialties by sampling famously delicious Nuremburger Bratwurst, Rot bier (red beer) and Lebkuchen (gingerbread). (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Bamberg | UNESCO walking tour and smoked beer tasting |
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Explore enchanting Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in one of three ways. Join a guided walking tour of this medieval gem to see its cathedral, Old Town Hall and elegant old mansions. Or taste your way through the city with tastings of smoked beer, licorice root and Hornla, a pastry. And for a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
| Day 12 | Würzburg | Walking tour |
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| | OR Marienberg Fortress hike |
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Nestled along the “Romantic Road” lies Würzburg. Join a walking tour of this beautiful city, or visit its crown jewel, the Baroque Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Get more active with a hike up to the Marienberg Fortress, the most prominent landmark on the left bank of the Main River in Würzburg. (B,L,D)
| Day 13 | Wertheim | Walking tour |
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| | OR Pretzel bakery visit and tasting |
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| Miltenberg | “The Pearl of the Main” walking tour |
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| | OR Miltenberg Castle hike |
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Enjoy a walking tour of Wertheim, which has one of the most beautiful city centers in Germany. Those wishing to learn more about the art of pretzel making can join a demonstration and tasting, and for the more actively inclined, go on a guided bike tour. Later visit Miltenberg, with its fairytale half-timbered houses, Crooked House and Royal Inn. While on your walking tour of Miltenberg, discover why this medieval town seems to leap from the pages of a fairytale; or if you prefer to explore Miltenberg more actively, go on a hike. (B,L,D)
| Day 14 | Rüdesheim | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum |
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Rüdesheim is the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley. With a history stemming from Roman times, Rüdesheim is known for its winemaking, the medieval lane of Drosselgasse, Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Cabinet and Rüdesheimer coffee. You have a variety of ways to explore, depending on your interest. Drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue. Prefer to indulge in a bit of whimsy, then visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments. You also have the choice to taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer Coffee, ceremoniously made with warm brandy. (B,L,D)
| Day 15 | Rhine Gorge | Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising |
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| Cologne | “Holy City” walking tour and cathedral visit |
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Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river, en route to Cologne, home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral. Continue to the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall, the Overstolzenhaus and the Festival Hall. For a different view of the city, visit a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer, only made in Cologne, and Reibekuchen, potato pancakes typically served with apple sauce. Active adventurists will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten. (B,L,D)
| Day 16 | Amsterdam | Canal cruise and city tour |
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Discover Amsterdam’s iconic canals and leaning houses with a scenic canal cruise. Continue with a walk to the Begijnhof and be charmed by its historic buildings dating back to the Middle Ages. Later in the day, set sail. (B,L,D)
| Day 17 | Amsterdam | DISEMBARKATION |
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Disembark the ship and you prepare for your flight home. (B)