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Parliament Building, Budapest

Romantic Danube - Cruise Only

Vilshofen - Budapest - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard MS Amaverde
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Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest aboard the MS Amaverde. For those yearning for the romance of Old World Europe, a journey into the heart of the continent awaits. This is where empires were built, kings and queens were crowned, and some of the most incredible music in history was composed and performed by legends like Mozart and Beethoven. Timeless cities such as Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest capture the essence of this rich heritage. Don't miss the beauty of Salzburg or the charm of Cesky Krumlov, a picturesque mountain town in the Czech Republic. From grand abbeys and fortresses overlooking the Danube to numerous iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, let yourself be enchanted by the Danube and its regal, romantic splendor.
Visit charming PassauVisit unique European townsEnjoy this beautiful basilica while traveling through EuropeSaint Stephens Cathedral in ViennaParliament Building, Budapest
Highlights
  • Explore the charming old town of Vilshofen before cruising to Passau's rivers
  • Visit Salzburg's historic center featuring Mirabell Gardens and resplendent architecture
  • Wander through Linz's old city savoring a rich blend of culture and history
  • Tour the magnificent Melk Abbey showcasing splendid architecture and tranquil gardens
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Vilshofen | Embark

Embark on a Romantic Danube cruise. Later in the day, participate in an exclusive Oktoberfest celebration featuring traditional beer, Bavarian folk music, and dancing.

Day 2: Vilshofen | Passau

Discover Vilshofen’s charming old town before cruising to Passau, renowned as the “City of Three Rivers.” You can join a walking tour, or if you prefer a more active experience, hike up to the "Veste Oberhaus," the castle hill in Passau. Alternatively, you can embark on a bike tour along the River Inn.

Day 3: Linz

The ship arrives in Linz where you have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you can tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the famed Basilica St. Michael and site of the wedding scene in The Sound of Music. 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. Following these full-day excursions, you may also choose to take a brief walking tour in Linz. Alternatively, join a walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or bike along the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube.

Day 4: Weissenkirchen

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, 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 can 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. For a more culinary-focused experience, sample special apricot treats and regional wine from a local boutique.

Day 5: Vienna

The “City of Waltzes” offers a treasure trove of gems and your city tour showcases them, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace. Your tour concludes in the historic city center with a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Or if you prefer a more active tour, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to further explore this iconic city.

Day 6: Bratislava

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 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.

Day 7: Budapest

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 can 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.

Day 8: Budapest | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Disembark the ship as you prepare for your flight home.

Note: The Great Market Hall is closed on Sundays.

Ship/Hotel

MS Amaverde

AmaVerde

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

  • Jun 2, 2025from $4,239
  • Jun 30, 2025from $4,239
  • Jul 28, 2025from $4,239
  • Aug 25, 2025from $4,539
  • Sep 22, 2025from $4,639
  • Oct 20, 2025from $4,439
  • Nov 17, 2025from $3,639
  • Apr 6, 2026from $4,049
  • Jun 1, 2026from $4,449
  • Jun 29, 2026from $4,449
  • Jul 27, 2026from $4,449
  • Aug 24, 2026from $4,749
  • Sep 21, 2026from $4,849
  • Oct 19, 2026from $4,649
  • Nov 16, 2026from $4,049
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Deal available

Deals

Complimentary Land Package 27628
Book by June 30, 2025, for select 2025 and 2026 Europe river cruises and receive a complimentary land package of up to 4 nights, which can be enjoyed either before or after your cruise. This offer is valid exclusively for new bookings made by past AmaWaterways travelers. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for more details.
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Triple Savings 27714
Book by June 30, 2025, and enjoy Triple Savings on select 2025 and 2026 Europe cruises! Save up to $2,000 per stateroom, receive a complimentary stateroom upgrade, and enjoy $100 onboard credit on select itineraries. This offer is valid on new bookings, is subject to availability, based on double occupancy, and cannot be combined with other promotions. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for more details.

Promo Code TRIPLESAVINGS 
 
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Per person starting at
$3,639
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Category E
Piano Deck, fixed window. Private facilities, 170 sq ft
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Category D
Piano Deck, fixed window. Private facilities, 170 sq ft
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Category C
Cello Deck, French Balcony. Private facilities, 170 sq ft
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Category BB
Cello Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony. Private facilities, 210 sq ft
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Category BA
Violin Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony. Private facilities, 210 sq ft
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Category AB
Cello Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony. Private facilities, 235 sq ft
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Category AA
Violin Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony. Private facilities, 235 sq ft
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Suite
Violin Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony. Private facilities, 350 sq ft
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Port Fees
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Beverages: Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
  • Beverages: Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
  • Personal headset for excursions. 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Laundry 

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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin

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