14-night Fly-Cruise
Cruise From: Vilshofen to Giurgiu
Cruise From: Giurgiu to Vilshofen
Journey along paths forged by conquerors, crusaders and kings through Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany. Step back in time to explore the history and mystery living in the hillsides while cruising the Danube and through the Iron Gates. Legends of all kinds are waiting to be uncovered like the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, built into the side of a mountain showcasing well-preserved medieval frescos. Experience the Romans’ influence firsthand in Pécs, “the city of Mediterranean impressions," and through the taste of wine in Croatia. From the imposing capitals of Budapest and Vienna to towns lost in time, immerse yourself in the colorful folktales and traditions of the extraordinary people and places you visit along the way.
Journey along paths forged by conquerors, crusaders and kings through Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany. Step back in time to explore the history and mystery living in the hillsides while cruising the Danube and through the Iron Gates. Legends of all kinds are waiting to be uncovered like the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, built into the side of a mountain showcasing well-preserved medieval frescos. Experience the Romans’ influence firsthand in Pécs, “the city of Mediterranean impressions," and through the taste of wine in Croatia. From the imposing capitals of Budapest and Vienna to towns lost in time, immerse yourself in the colorful folktales and traditions of the extraordinary people and places you visit along the way.
Journey along paths forged by conquerors, crusaders and kings through Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, and Germany. Step back in time to explore the history and mystery living in the hillsides while cruising the Danube and through the Iron Gates. Legends of all kinds are waiting to be uncovered like the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, built into the side of a mountain showcasing well-preserved medieval frescos. Experience the Romans’ influence firsthand in Pécs, “the city of Mediterranean impressions," and through the taste of wine in Croatia. From the imposing capitals of Budapest and Vienna to towns lost in time, immerse yourself in the colorful folktales and traditions of the extraordinary people and places you visit along the way.
COUNTRIES:
Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, SlovakiaAustria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, SlovakiaAustria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia
RIVERS:
Danube
Grand Danube Cruise
At A Glance
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Day 1 | Vilshofen | EMBARKATION |
|
| | Exclusive Oktoberfest celebration |
|
Board the ship in Vilshofen for your Grand Danube cruise. In the evening, be treated to a festive Oktoberfest celebration – an AmaWaterways exclusive. (D)
Day 2 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
Cruise to Passau, where you have the option of exploring it one of three ways. Take a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Or choose between a guided bike tour along the Inn River or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Linz | “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour |
|
| | OR “Cultural Mile” bike tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Salzburg excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Český Krumlov and Linz excursion |
|
The ship arrives in Linz where you’ll have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you’ll tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael. Or join a morning walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or go on a bike tour of the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. Alternatively, you can visit the charming mountain town of Český Krumlov, a guest favorite located just over the Czech-Austrian border, on a full-day excursion. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | Weissenkirchen | Scenic cruising through Strudengau and UNESCO Wachau Valley |
|
| | Dürnstein walking tour and Melk Benedictine Abbey |
|
| | OR Apricots, Sweets and Wine tasting |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike and wine tasting |
|
| | OR Danube bike tour and wine tasting |
|
Head up to the Sun Deck for panoramic views as you unwind with a scenic cruise through the Strudengau and UNESCO-designated Wachau valleys. After reaching Weissenkirchen, you’ll be treated to several choices of excursions. Take a walking tour of Dürnstein before visiting the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. For a more culinary-focused experience, sample special apricot treats and regional wine from a local boutique. For more active excursions, hike the trail up to the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, or cycle along the Danube River on a guided bike tour. Both of these active excursions conclude with a tasting of local wines. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna City Tour by Bike |
|
The “City of Waltzes” is a treasure trove and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the UNESCO-designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | 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 special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Budapest | Buda city tour |
|
Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Budapest | Gödöllő Palace and Puszta excursion |
|
Visit the 19th-century Gödöllő Palace with its royal stables and Baroque theater, followed by lunch at Gödöllő Restaurant. Afterward, head for Puszta, the vast flat Great Hungarian Plain where you will tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by the carriage-driving world champion brothers Lazar. Following the tour, witness a unique, unforgettable performance of Hungarian horsemanship, a tradition that goes back to the hordes of Magyar tribes conquering Hungary in the 9th century. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Mohacs | Pécs excursion |
|
| | OR Szekszárd wine tasting |
|
| | OR Guided bike ride along the Danube |
|
Welcome to Pécs, founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. Or choose a guided bike tour through Mohács. For wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go instead to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Vukovar | Vukovar City tour |
|
Enjoy your morning in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you may visit sites such as Eltz Manor House and Vukovar’s famous water tower. Alternatively, you may see Osijek on a guided tour. For those looking for a more active experience, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour. In the afternoon, enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. You can also choose to explore the Vucedol Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on prehistoric culture and one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Belgrade | “The City by Two Rivers” tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Novi Sad tour |
|
| | OR Belgrade Fortress hike |
|
| | “Brandies of Belgrade” tasting |
|
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world. You may also explore Novi Sad, a city rich in tradition and culture, on a full-day excursion. Begin your tour at the Dunavski (Danube) Park; stroll through Stari Grad, the old town center; and explore Liberty Square, which is dominated by the Old Town Hall and the Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling a few types of Serbian brandy paired with delicious local appetizers, including Šlivovitz, which was added in 2022 to UNESCO’s list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Iron Gates | Golubac Fortress with tasting of local fare |
|
| Scenic Cruising | Scenic Cruising – The Iron Gates |
|
The Iron Gates are some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. In the afternoon, visit Golubac Fortress – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe and enjoy a tasting of locally sourced delicacies. (B,L,D)
Day 13 | Vidin | Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Banitsa pastry and yogurt tasting |
|
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)
Day 14 | Rousse | Full-day Veliko Tarnovo excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Tsarevets Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Full-day Bucharest Excursion |
|
| | OR Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches & Rousse Highlights Tour |
|
Visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. For more active exploration, join an unforgettable hike up the iconic Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and the Patriarchal Church, adorned with stunning modernist frescoes. You may also opt to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterwards visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings. You may also join a full-day tour to Bucharest, known as the “Little Paris of the East.” Enjoy a guided tour of the historic city center and its elegant architecture. (B,L,D)
Day 15 | Giurgiu | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Giurgiu as you prepare for your flight home. (B)
Embark the ship in Giurgiu for your Grand Danube Cruise.
Day 2 | Rousse | Full-day Bucharest Excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Veliko Tarnovo Excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Tsarevets Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches & Rousse highlights |
|
Experience more of Bucharest on a full-day excursion or visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and the Patriarchal Church, adorned with stunning modernist frescoes. For more active exploration, join an unforgettable hike up the iconic Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. You can opt instead to explore Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, or you may visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Vidin | Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Banitsa Pastry & Yogurt Making |
|
| | OR Dos Alamos Wine Tasting |
|
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | Iron Gates | Scenic cruising |
|
| | Golubac Fortress visit with tasting of local fare |
|
The Iron Gates are some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. In the afternoon, visit Golubac Fortress – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe and enjoy a tasting of locally sourced delicacies. (B,L,D)
Day 5 | Belgrade | “The City by Two Rivers” tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Novi Sad excursion |
|
| | “Brandies of Belgrade” Tasting |
|
| | OR Guided Bike Tour of Belgrade |
|
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world. You may also explore Novi Sad, a city rich in tradition and culture, on a full-day excursion. Begin your tour at the Dunavski (Danube) Park; stroll through Stari Grad, the old town center; and explore Liberty Square, which is dominated by the Old Town Hall and the Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling a few types of Serbian brandy paired with delicious local appetizers, including Šlivovitz, which was added in 2022 to UNESCO’s list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Vukovar | Scenic cruising |
|
After a morning of scenic cruising, enjoy an afternoon in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you will have a chance to visit Eltz Manor House and its collection of historic artifacts, paintings and clothing. Alternatively, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour. Wine connoisseurs will want to enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Mohacs | Pécs excursion |
|
| | OR Szekszárd wine tasting |
|
Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohács and then visit Pécs, founded more than
2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the
city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You
will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. For wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go instead to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Budapest | Gödöllő Palace and Pustza excursion |
|
Visit the 19th-century Gödöllő Palace with its royal stables and Baroque theater, followed by lunch at Gödöllő Restaurant. Afterward, head for Puszta, the vast flat Great Hungarian Plain where you will tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by the carriage-drive world champion brothers Lazar. Following the tour, witness a unique, unforgettable performance of Hungarian horsemanship, a tradition that goes back to the hordes of Magyar tribes conquering Hungary in the 9th century. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Budapest | Buda city tour |
|
Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | 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 special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna City Tour by Bike |
|
The “City of Waltzes” is a treasure trove and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the UNESCO-designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Weissenkirchen | Highlights of Dürnstein and Melk Abbey |
|
| | OR Dürnstein excursion with wine and apricot tastings |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Weissenkirchen to Melk bike tour |
|
| | Scenic cruising through the Strudengau Valley |
|
| Grein | Exclusive Greinburg Castle visit |
|
Be treated to several choices of excursions. Take a walking tour of Dürnstein before visiting the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. Or hike the trail up to the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, and where you’ll find spectacular views of the valley, river and village below. You can also choose to cycle through the Wachau Valley on a guided bike tour to Melk. For a more culinary-focused experience, sample wine and special apricot treats from a local boutique. Later in the day, head up to the Sun Deck for panoramic views as you unwind with a scenic cruise through the Strudengau Valley. In the evening, head ashore in Grein for an exclusive castle visit. (B,L,D)
Day 13 | Linz | “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour |
|
| | OR "Cultural Mile” bike tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Salzburg excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Český Krumlov and Linz excursion |
|
The ship arrives in Linz where you’ll have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you’ll tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael. You may also choose to join a full-day excursion to the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov, where you can stroll its cobblestone streets; marvel at the city’s picturesque Baroque and Renaissance-style buildings; and tour Krumlov Castle, one of Europe’s largest castle complexes. Upon your return to Linz, you may choose to take a brief walking tour in the city. Or join a morning walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or go on a bike tour of the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. (B,L,D)
*Not combinable with full-day tours.
Day 14 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
| Vilshofen | Exclusive Oktoberfest celebration |
|
Discover the city of Passau in one of three ways. Enjoy a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Or choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube River, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress. Later, cruise to Vilshofen, where you will be treated to a festive Oktoberfest celebration – an AmaWaterways exclusive. (B,L,D)
Day 15 | Vilshofen | DISEMBARKATION |
|
This morning, disembark your ship in Vilshofen. (B)
Day 1 | Prague | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Prague and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 | Prague | “Golden City of a Hundred Spires” tour |
|
Discover fairytale Prague and its magical church spires via a city tour or a hike to Prague Castle. Both will reveal why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive and vibrant cities, with a historic city center that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B)
Day 3 | Prague | Czech beer tasting |
|
Beer has been an important part of the Czech Republic since 993, when the first brewery was
established. Beer is vital to the country’s national identity, so much so that the Czechs are the biggest consumers
of beer in the world. Join a beer tasting and discover for yourself what makes Czech beer some of the best in the
world. (B)
Day 4 | Prague | Transfer to Regensburg |
|
| Regensburg | UNESCO City Highlights tour |
|
| | Exclusive Oktoberfest celebration |
|
Depart from Prague via motorcoach and enjoy a stop in Regensburg. After a local highlights tour, drive to Vilshofen where you will board your ship. Later in the day, enjoy a festive Oktoberfest celebration – an AmaWaterways exclusive. (B,D)
Day 5 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
Cruise to Passau, where you have the option of exploring it one of three ways. Take a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Or choose between a guided bike tour along the Inn River or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Linz | “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour |
|
| | OR “Cultural Mile” bike tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Salzburg excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Český Krumlov and Linz excursion |
|
The ship arrives in Linz where you’ll have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you’ll tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael. Or join a morning walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or go on a bike tour of the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. Alternatively, you can visit the charming mountain town of Český Krumlov, a guest favorite located just over the Czech-Austrian border, on a full-day excursion. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Weissenkirchen | Scenic cruising through Strudengau and UNESCO Wachau Valley |
|
| | Dürnstein walking tour and Melk Benedictine Abbey |
|
| | OR Apricots, Sweets and Wine tasting |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike and wine tasting |
|
| | OR Danube bike tour and wine tasting |
|
Head up to the Sun Deck for panoramic views as you unwind with a scenic cruise through the Strudengau and UNESCO-designated Wachau valleys. After reaching Weissenkirchen, you’ll be treated to several choices of excursions. Take a walking tour of Dürnstein before visiting the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. For a more culinary-focused experience, sample special apricot treats and regional wine from a local boutique. For more active excursions, hike the trail up to the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, or cycle along the Danube River on a guided bike tour. Both of these active excursions conclude with a tasting of local wines. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna City Tour by Bike |
|
The “City of Waltzes” is a treasure trove and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the UNESCO-designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | 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 special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Budapest | Buda city tour |
|
Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Budapest | Gödöllő Palace and Puszta excursion |
|
Visit the 19th-century Gödöllő Palace with its royal stables and Baroque theater, followed by lunch at Gödöllő Restaurant. Afterward, head for Puszta, the vast flat Great Hungarian Plain where you will tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by the carriage-driving world champion brothers Lazar. Following the tour, witness a unique, unforgettable performance of Hungarian horsemanship, a tradition that goes back to the hordes of Magyar tribes conquering Hungary in the 9th century. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Mohacs | Pécs excursion |
|
| | OR Szekszárd wine tasting |
|
| | OR Guided bike ride along the Danube |
|
Welcome to Pécs, founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. Or choose a guided bike tour through Mohács. For wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go instead to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B,L,D)
Day 13 | Vukovar | Vukovar City tour |
|
Enjoy your morning in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you may visit sites such as Eltz Manor House and Vukovar’s famous water tower. Alternatively, you may see Osijek on a guided tour. For those looking for a more active experience, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour. In the afternoon, enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. You can also choose to explore the Vucedol Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on prehistoric culture and one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. (B,L,D)
Day 14 | Belgrade | “The City by Two Rivers” tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Novi Sad tour |
|
| | OR Belgrade Fortress hike |
|
| | “Brandies of Belgrade” tasting |
|
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world. You may also explore Novi Sad, a city rich in tradition and culture, on a full-day excursion. Begin your tour at the Dunavski (Danube) Park; stroll through Stari Grad, the old town center; and explore Liberty Square, which is dominated by the Old Town Hall and the Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling a few types of Serbian brandy paired with delicious local appetizers, including Šlivovitz, which was added in 2022 to UNESCO’s list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 15 | Iron Gates | Golubac Fortress with tasting of local fare |
|
| Scenic Cruising | Scenic Cruising – The Iron Gates |
|
The Iron Gates are some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. In the afternoon, visit Golubac Fortress – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe and enjoy a tasting of locally sourced delicacies. (B,L,D)
Day 16 | Vidin | Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Banitsa pastry and yogurt tasting |
|
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)
Day 17 | Rousse | Full-day Veliko Tarnovo excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Tsarevets Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Full-day Bucharest Excursion |
|
| | OR Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches & Rousse Highlights Tour |
|
Visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. For more active exploration, join an unforgettable hike up the iconic Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and the Patriarchal Church, adorned with stunning modernist frescoes. You may also opt to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterwards visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings. You may also join a full-day tour to Bucharest, known as the “Little Paris of the East.” Enjoy a guided tour of the historic city center and its elegant architecture. (B,L,D)
Day 18 | Giurgiu | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Disembark the ship in Giurgiu and continue to the legendary region of Transylvania, a place deeply rooted in myth and history. Arrive in the quaint mountain town of Bran where you will have lunch and visit the famous Bran castle, otherwise known as Dracula’s Castle. After your tour of Bran Castle, you will continue to Braşov. Considered the heart of Romania and surrounded by the beautiful Southern Carpathians, Braşov is one of the most visited cities in Romania. (B)
Day 19 | Brasov | Sighisoara excursion |
|
| | Fortified Churches excursion |
|
Dracula lovers will be in for another treat with an excursion to Sighişoara, birthplace to Transylvania’s most notorious ruler, Vlad Ţepeş, also known as Vlad the Impaler or Dracula. It’s hard to believe that this perfectly preserved UNESCO-designated town filled with resplendent pastel-colored buildings, stone lanes, medieval towers and pedestrian-friendly Old Town was Vlad’s place of birth. Alternatively, discover the charm of Transylvania with a visit to the fortified churches of Prejmer and Hărman. Marvel at the impressive medieval architecture, defensive walls, and well-preserved frescoes that tell the stories of centuries past, all while enjoying the serene countryside setting. After returning from your excursion, you will enjoy a walk through history as you take a tour of Braşov’s Old town before ending at your hotel. (B)
Day 20 | Brasov | Peles Castle tour |
|
| Bucharest | Transfer to Bucharest |
|
En route to Bucharest, you’ll visit the quaint mountain town of Sinaia. While in Sinaia you will visit Peles Castle. Peles Castle is considered by many to be one of the most stunning castles in Europe and a masterpiece of German new-Renaissance with 160 rooms filled with priceless European art. After your tour of Peles Castle you will depart for Romania’s capital city of Bucharest. (B)
Day 21 | Bucharest | Old Town walking tour |
|
Bucharest, Romania’s capital, has earned its nickname, the “Little Paris of the East,” with its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe. This morning, set out on a walking tour through the historic old town of Bucharest. You will observe the many changes this capital city has experienced through a mixture of architectural styles and cultural influences. Bucharest’s eclectic architecture is a mix of historical, neo-classical, communist-era and modern buildings. Your guided tour will take you through the old town and show you the most popular places in Bucharest while hearing stories of its history and getting local insights for shopping and dining opportunities. The afternoon is free for you to explore the city on your own. (B)
Day 22 | Bucharest | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Bucharest as you prepare for your flight home. (B)
Day 1 | Bucharest | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Bucharest and check into your hotel.
Day 2 | Bucharest | Old Town walking tour |
|
Bucharest, Romania’s capital, has earned its nickname, the “Little Paris of the East,” with its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe. This morning, enjoy a walking tour through the historic old town of Bucharest. You will observe the many changes this capital city has experienced through a mixture of architectural styles and cultural influences. Bucharest’s eclectic architecture is a mix of historical, neo-classical, communist-era and modern buildings. Your guided tour will take you through the old town and show you the most popular places in Bucharest while hearing stories of its history and getting local insights for shopping and dining opportunities. The afternoon is free for you to explore the city on your own. (B)
Day 3 | Brasov | Transfer to Brasov |
|
| | Peles Castle visit and Braşov tour |
|
En route to Braşov, you’ll visit the quaint mountain town of Sinaia. While in Sinaia you will visit Peles Castle. Peles Castle is considered by many to be one of the most stunning castles in Europe and a masterpiece of German new-Renaissance with 160 rooms filled with priceless European art. After your tour of Peles Castle you will depart for Braşov. Considered the heart of Romania and surrounded by the beautiful Southern Carpathians, Braşov is one of the most visited cities in Romania. Upon your arrival in Braşov, enjoy a walking tour of this storied Transylvanian city. (B)
Day 4 | Brasov | Sighișoara excursion |
|
| | OR Fortified Churches excursion |
|
Dracula lovers will be in for another treat with an excursion to Sighişoara, birthplace to Transylvania’s most notorious ruler, Vlad Ţepeş, also known as Vlad the Impaler or Dracula. It’s hard to believe that this perfectly preserved UNESCO-designated town filled with resplendent pastel-colored buildings, stone lanes, medieval towers and pedestrian-friendly Old Town was Vlad’s place of birth. Alternatively, discover the charm of Transylvania with a visit to the fortified churches of Prejmer and Hărman. Marvel at the impressive medieval architecture, defensive walls, and well-preserved frescoes that tell the stories of centuries past, all while enjoying the serene countryside setting. (B)
Day 5 | Brasov | Bran Royal Castle tour |
|
| Giurgiu | Transfer to Giurgiu |
|
Journey through the Romanian countryside to Bran, where you'll visit Transylvania's legendary Bran Castle, forever linked with the legend of Dracula. Later in the day, transfer to Giurgiu where you will embark upon your Grand Danube river cruise. (B, D)
Day 6 | Rousse | Full-day Bucharest Excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Veliko Tarnovo Excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Tsarevets Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches & Rousse highlights |
|
Experience more of Bucharest on a full-day excursion or visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and the Patriarchal Church, adorned with stunning modernist frescoes. For more active exploration, join an unforgettable hike up the iconic Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. You can opt instead to explore Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, or you may visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Vidin | Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Banitsa Pastry & Yogurt Making |
|
| | OR Dos Alamos Wine Tasting |
|
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Iron Gates | Scenic cruising |
|
| | Golubac Fortress visit with tasting of local fare |
|
The Iron Gates are some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. In the afternoon, visit Golubac Fortress – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe and enjoy a tasting of locally sourced delicacies. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Belgrade | “The City by Two Rivers” tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Novi Sad excursion |
|
| | “Brandies of Belgrade” Tasting |
|
| | OR Guided Bike Tour of Belgrade |
|
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world. You may also explore Novi Sad, a city rich in tradition and culture, on a full-day excursion. Begin your tour at the Dunavski (Danube) Park; stroll through Stari Grad, the old town center; and explore Liberty Square, which is dominated by the Old Town Hall and the Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling a few types of Serbian brandy paired with delicious local appetizers, including Šlivovitz, which was added in 2022 to UNESCO’s list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Vukovar | Scenic cruising |
|
After a morning of scenic cruising, enjoy an afternoon in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you will have a chance to visit Eltz Manor House and its collection of historic artifacts, paintings and clothing. Alternatively, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour. Wine connoisseurs will want to enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Mohacs | Pécs excursion |
|
| | OR Szekszárd wine tasting |
|
Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohács and then visit Pécs, founded more than
2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the
city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You
will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. For wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go instead to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Budapest | Gödöllő Palace and Pustza excursion |
|
Visit the 19th-century Gödöllő Palace with its royal stables and Baroque theater, followed by lunch at Gödöllő Restaurant. Afterward, head for Puszta, the vast flat Great Hungarian Plain where you will tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by the carriage-drive world champion brothers Lazar. Following the tour, witness a unique, unforgettable performance of Hungarian horsemanship, a tradition that goes back to the hordes of Magyar tribes conquering Hungary in the 9th century. (B,L,D)
Day 13 | Budapest | Buda city tour |
|
Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)
Day 14 | 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 special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 15 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna City Tour by Bike |
|
The “City of Waltzes” is a treasure trove and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the UNESCO-designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
Day 16 | Weissenkirchen | Highlights of Dürnstein and Melk Abbey |
|
| | OR Dürnstein excursion with wine and apricot tastings |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Weissenkirchen to Melk bike tour |
|
| | Scenic cruising through the Strudengau Valley |
|
| Grein | Exclusive Greinburg Castle visit |
|
Be treated to several choices of excursions. Take a walking tour of Dürnstein before visiting the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. Or hike the trail up to the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, and where you’ll find spectacular views of the valley, river and village below. You can also choose to cycle through the Wachau Valley on a guided bike tour to Melk. For a more culinary-focused experience, sample wine and special apricot treats from a local boutique. Later in the day, head up to the Sun Deck for panoramic views as you unwind with a scenic cruise through the Strudengau Valley. In the evening, head ashore in Grein for an exclusive castle visit. (B,L,D)
Day 17 | Linz | “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour |
|
| | OR "Cultural Mile” bike tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Salzburg excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Český Krumlov and Linz excursion |
|
The ship arrives in Linz where you’ll have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you’ll tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael. You may also choose to join a full-day excursion to the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov, where you can stroll its cobblestone streets; marvel at the city’s picturesque Baroque and Renaissance-style buildings; and tour Krumlov Castle, one of Europe’s largest castle complexes. Upon your return to Linz, you may choose to take a brief walking tour in the city. Or join a morning walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or go on a bike tour of the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. (B,L,D)
*Not combinable with full-day tours.
Day 18 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
| Vilshofen | Exclusive Oktoberfest celebration |
|
Discover the city of Passau in one of three ways. Enjoy a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Or choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube River, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress. Later, cruise to Vilshofen, where you will be treated to a festive Oktoberfest celebration – an AmaWaterways exclusive. (B,L,D)
Day 19 | Vilshofen | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Regensburg | UNESCO City Highlights tour |
|
Disembark the ship and enjoy a stop in Regensburg. After a local highlights tour, head to Prague where you will check into your hotel. (B)
Day 20 | Prague | “Golden City of a Hundred Spires” tour |
|
Discover fairytale Prague and its magical church spires via a city tour or a hike to Prague Castle. Both will reveal why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive and vibrant cities, with a historic city center that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B)
Day 21 | Prague | Czech beer tasting |
|
Beer has been an important part of the Czech Republic since 993, when the first brewery was
established. Beer is vital to the country’s national identity, so much so that the Czechs are the biggest consumers
of beer in the world. Join a beer tasting and discover for yourself what makes Czech beer some of the best in the
world. (B)
Day 22 | Prague | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Prague as you prepare for your flight home.
Day 1 | Prague | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Prague and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 | Prague | Golden City of a Hundred Spires tour |
|
Discover fairytale Prague and its magical church spires via a city tour or a hike to Prague Castle. Both will reveal why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive and vibrant cities, with a historic city center that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B)
Day 3 | Prague | Czech beer tasting |
|
Beer has been an important part of the Czech Republic since 993, when the first brewery was
established. Beer is vital to the country’s national identity, so much so that the Czechs are the biggest consumers
of beer in the world. Join a beer tasting and discover for yourself what makes Czech beer some of the best in the
world. (B)
Day 4 | Prague | Transfer to Regensburg |
|
| Regensburg | UNESCO city highlights tour |
|
| | Exclusive Oktoberfest celebration |
|
Depart from Prague via motorcoach and enjoy a stop in Regensburg. After a local highlights tour, drive to Vilshofen where you will board your ship. Later in the day, enjoy a festive Oktoberfest celebration – an AmaWaterways exclusive. (B,D)
Day 5 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
Cruise to Passau, where you have the option of exploring it one of three ways. Take a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Or choose between a guided bike tour along the Inn River or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress. (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Linz | “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour |
|
| | OR “Cultural Mile” bike tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Salzburg excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Český Krumlov and Linz excursion |
|
The ship arrives in Linz where you’ll have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you’ll tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael. Or join a morning walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or go on a bike tour of the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. Alternatively, you can visit the charming mountain town of Český Krumlov, a guest favorite located just over the Czech-Austrian border, on a full-day excursion. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Weissenkirchen | Scenic cruising through Strudengau and UNESCO Wachau Valley |
|
| | Dürnstein walking tour and Melk Benedictine Abbey |
|
| | OR Apricots, Sweets and Wine tasting |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike and wine tasting |
|
| | OR Danube bike tour and wine tasting |
|
Head up to the Sun Deck for panoramic views as you unwind with a scenic cruise through the Strudengau and UNESCO-designated Wachau valleys. After reaching Weissenkirchen, you’ll be treated to several choices of excursions. Take a walking tour of Dürnstein before visiting the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. For a more culinary-focused experience, sample special apricot treats and regional wine from a local boutique. For more active excursions, hike the trail up to the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, or cycle along the Danube River on a guided bike tour. Both of these active excursions conclude with a tasting of local wines. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna City Tour by Bike |
|
The “City of Waltzes” is a treasure trove and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the UNESCO-designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | 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 special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Budapest | Buda city tour |
|
Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Budapest | Gödöllő Palace and Puszta excursion |
|
Visit the 19th-century Gödöllő Palace with its royal stables and Baroque theater, followed by lunch at Gödöllő Restaurant. Afterward, head for Puszta, the vast flat Great Hungarian Plain where you will tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by the carriage-driving world champion brothers Lazar. Following the tour, witness a unique, unforgettable performance of Hungarian horsemanship, a tradition that goes back to the hordes of Magyar tribes conquering Hungary in the 9th century. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Mohacs | Pécs excursion |
|
| | OR Szekszárd wine tasting |
|
| | OR Guided bike ride along the Danube |
|
Welcome to Pécs, founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. Or choose a guided bike tour through Mohács. For wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go instead to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B,L,D)
Day 13 | Vukovar | Vukovar City tour |
|
Enjoy your morning in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you may visit sites such as Eltz Manor House and Vukovar’s famous water tower. Alternatively, you may see Osijek on a guided tour. For those looking for a more active experience, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour. In the afternoon, enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. You can also choose to explore the Vucedol Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on prehistoric culture and one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. (B,L,D)
Day 14 | Belgrade | “The City by Two Rivers” tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Novi Sad tour |
|
| | OR Belgrade Fortress hike |
|
| | “Brandies of Belgrade” tasting |
|
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world. You may also explore Novi Sad, a city rich in tradition and culture, on a full-day excursion. Begin your tour at the Dunavski (Danube) Park; stroll through Stari Grad, the old town center; and explore Liberty Square, which is dominated by the Old Town Hall and the Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling a few types of Serbian brandy paired with delicious local appetizers, including Šlivovitz, which was added in 2022 to UNESCO’s list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 15 | Iron Gates | Golubac Fortress with tasting of local fare |
|
| Scenic Cruising | Scenic Cruising – The Iron Gates |
|
The Iron Gates are some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. In the afternoon, visit Golubac Fortress – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe and enjoy a tasting of locally sourced delicacies. (B,L,D)
Day 16 | Vidin | Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Banitsa pastry and yogurt tasting |
|
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)
Day 17 | Rousse | Full-day Veliko Tarnovo excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Tsarevets Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Full-day Bucharest Excursion |
|
| | OR Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches & Rousse Highlights Tour |
|
Visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. For more active exploration, join an unforgettable hike up the iconic Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and the Patriarchal Church, adorned with stunning modernist frescoes. You may also opt to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterwards visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings. You may also join a full-day tour to Bucharest, known as the “Little Paris of the East.” Enjoy a guided tour of the historic city center and its elegant architecture. (B,L,D)
Day 18 | Giurgiu | Disembarkation |
|
| Istanbul | Flight to Istanbul; hotel check-in |
|
Disembark the ship in Giurgiu and board a motorcoach to Bucharest where you will board your flight to Istanbul. Upon landing, check into your hotel. (B)
Admire the grandeur of the spectacular Ottoman Sultans’ Grand Palace of Topkapi, home to every Sultan from the 15th-19th centuries. During your tour, marvel at the private chambers of the Sultans, the Harem (women’s quarters) and the Imperial Treasury’s vast collection, including the jewel-encrusted Topkapi Dagger and the stunning 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond. (B)
Day 20 | Istanbul | Topkapi Palace & Harem |
|
Allow yourself to be led through Istanbul’s fascinating Old City, with its numerous Roman, Byzantine and Ottoman monuments. Admire the mighty defensive walls, the Roman aqueduct and the hippodrome, among other iconic sites. (B)
Day 21 | Istanbul | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Istanbul as you prepare for your flight home. (B)
Day 1 | Istanbul | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Istanbul and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 | Istanbul | Istanbul Walking Tour |
|
Depart your hotel for an enriching guided walking tour, during which you will explore the Hagia Sophia, formerly a church before becoming a mosque and finally a museum. A beautiful example of Old-World architecture, this museum showcases lovely Christian murals and Islamic symbols throughout. After the Hagia Sophia, visit Istanbul’s similarly beautiful Blue Mosque, named for the Blue İznik tiles that cover its interior. For those who are interested, be guided to the lively Grand Bazaar and venture through the market before returning to your hotel. (B)
Day 3 | Istanbul | Topkapi Palace & Harem |
|
Admire the grandeur of the spectacular Ottoman Sultans’ Grand Palace of Topkapi, home to every Sultan from the 15th-19th centuries. During your tour, marvel at the private chambers of the Sultans, the Harem (women’s quarters) and the Imperial Treasury’s vast collection, including the jewel-encrusted Topkapi Dagger and the stunning 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond. (B)
Day 4 | Istanbul | Flight to Bucharest |
|
| Bucharest | Transfer to Giurgiu |
|
Board a plane to Bucharest and then transfer by motorcoach to Giurgiu where you will embark the ship for your Grand Danube cruise. (B,D)
Day 5 | Rousse | Full-day Bucharest Excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Veliko Tarnovo Excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Tsarevets Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches & Rousse highlights |
|
Experience more of Bucharest on a full-day excursion or visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. Explore its ancient walls, towers, and the Patriarchal Church, adorned with stunning modernist frescoes. For more active exploration, join an unforgettable hike up the iconic Tsarevets Fortress in Veliko Tarnovo. You can opt instead to explore Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, or you may visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings (B,L,D)
Day 6 | Vidin | Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour |
|
| | OR Banitsa Pastry & Yogurt Making |
|
| | OR Dos Alamos Wine Tasting |
|
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Iron Gates | Scenic cruising |
|
| | Golubac Fortress visit with tasting of local fare |
|
The Iron Gates are some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. In the afternoon, visit Golubac Fortress – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe and enjoy a tasting of locally sourced delicacies. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | Belgrade | “The City by Two Rivers” tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Novi Sad excursion |
|
| | “Brandies of Belgrade” Tasting |
|
| | OR Guided Bike Tour of Belgrade |
|
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world. You may also explore Novi Sad, a city rich in tradition and culture, on a full-day excursion. Begin your tour at the Dunavski (Danube) Park; stroll through Stari Grad, the old town center; and explore Liberty Square, which is dominated by the Old Town Hall and the Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling a few types of Serbian brandy paired with delicious local appetizers, including Šlivovitz, which was added in 2022 to UNESCO’s list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)
Day 9 | Vukovar | Scenic cruising |
|
After a morning of scenic cruising, enjoy an afternoon in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you will have a chance to visit Eltz Manor House and its collection of historic artifacts, paintings and clothing. Alternatively, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour. Wine connoisseurs will want to enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. (B,L,D)
Day 10 | Mohacs | Pécs excursion |
|
| | OR Szekszárd wine tasting |
|
Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohács and then visit Pécs, founded more than
2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the
city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You
will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. For wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go instead to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B,L,D)
Day 11 | Budapest | Gödöllő Palace and Pustza excursion |
|
Visit the 19th-century Gödöllő Palace with its royal stables and Baroque theater, followed by lunch at Gödöllő Restaurant. Afterward, head for Puszta, the vast flat Great Hungarian Plain where you will tour a genuine Hungarian csárda (farm) run by the carriage-drive world champion brothers Lazar. Following the tour, witness a unique, unforgettable performance of Hungarian horsemanship, a tradition that goes back to the hordes of Magyar tribes conquering Hungary in the 9th century. (B,L,D)
Day 12 | Budapest | Buda city tour |
|
Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)
Day 13 | 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 special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 14 | Vienna | “Imperial Vienna” tour |
|
| | OR Vienna City Tour by Bike |
|
The “City of Waltzes” is a treasure trove and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the UNESCO-designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)
Day 15 | Weissenkirchen | Highlights of Dürnstein and Melk Abbey |
|
| | OR Dürnstein excursion with wine and apricot tastings |
|
| | OR Dürnstein Fortress hike |
|
| | OR Weissenkirchen to Melk bike tour |
|
| | Scenic cruising through the Strudengau Valley |
|
| Grein | Exclusive Greinburg Castle visit |
|
Be treated to several choices of excursions. Take a walking tour of Dürnstein before visiting the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. Or hike the trail up to the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, and where you’ll find spectacular views of the valley, river and village below. You can also choose to cycle through the Wachau Valley on a guided bike tour to Melk. For a more culinary-focused experience, sample wine and special apricot treats from a local boutique. Later in the day, head up to the Sun Deck for panoramic views as you unwind with a scenic cruise through the Strudengau Valley. In the evening, head ashore in Grein for an exclusive castle visit. (B,L,D)
Day 16 | Linz | “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour |
|
| | OR "Cultural Mile” bike tour |
|
| | OR Full-day Salzburg excursion |
|
| | OR Full-day Český Krumlov and Linz excursion |
|
The ship arrives in Linz where you’ll have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you’ll tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael. You may also choose to join a full-day excursion to the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov, where you can stroll its cobblestone streets; marvel at the city’s picturesque Baroque and Renaissance-style buildings; and tour Krumlov Castle, one of Europe’s largest castle complexes. Upon your return to Linz, you may choose to take a brief walking tour in the city. Or join a morning walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or go on a bike tour of the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. (B,L,D)
*Not combinable with full-day tours.
Day 17 | Passau | “City of Three Rivers” walking tour |
|
| Vilshofen | Exclusive Oktoberfest celebration |
|
Discover the city of Passau in one of three ways. Enjoy a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Or choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube River, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress. Later, cruise to Vilshofen, where you will be treated to a festive Oktoberfest celebration – an AmaWaterways exclusive. (B,L,D)
Day 18 | Vilshofen | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Regensburg | UNESCO city highlights tour |
|
Disembark the ship and enjoy a stop in Regensburg. After a local highlights tour, head to Prague where you will check into your hotel. (B)
Day 19 | Prague | “Golden City of a Hundred Spires” tour |
|
Discover fairytale Prague and its magical church spires via a city tour or a hike to Prague Castle. Both will reveal why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive and vibrant cities, with a historic city center that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B)
Day 20 | Prague | Czech beer tasting |
|
Beer has been an important part of the Czech Republic since 993, when the first brewery was
established. Beer is vital to the country’s national identity, so much so that the Czechs are the biggest consumers
of beer in the world. Join a beer tasting and discover for yourself what makes Czech beer some of the best in the
world. (B)
Day 21 | Prague | Return flight home |
|
Bid farewell to Prague and prepare for your homeward flight. (B)
Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.