We arrived in Nuremberg and headed to the river cruise port. Due to an unusually hot summer and exceptionally low water levels, our ship was not able to meet us in Nuremberg. We met at the port and transferred by bus two hours to Vilshofen. We had been alerted to this likely itinerary change last week and, after reading the proposed itinerary …

We had the most wonderful guide, Christopher, today who took us on a walk through Passau and up to a pilgrimage church, Mariahilf (Mary, help us!) for views over the city. Along the way he discussed education, economics, architecture (85% of the town burnt down in 1662 so most buildings are ~350 years old) and a touch of politics. He was …

Today we had several options for shore excursions including a full day tour to Salzburg that most of the folks onboard decided to do. Ryan and I opted to travel a bit more off the beaten path and were rewarded with private tours, both for the morning and afternoon, since we were the only ones who had signed up.

In the morning, we did a biking …

We started the day at the Melk Abbey, a grand baroque building with 500 rooms dripping in opulence. Guides were lovely but I much preferred the scenic walk back down the hill thru the charming town of Melk to the extravagant abbey.

Back onboard we had our nicest weather of the trip. We enjoyed the gorgeous scenery of the Wachau valley sailing …

Today we arrived in Vienna for a walking city tour and a visit to the Christmas market in front of the Rathaus in the city center. It was freezing! The wind chill made the temps seem much colder so we were appreciative of the vouchers the ship gave us for complimentary Gluhwein in the market. We made a quick circuit of the market and then popped …

Budapest is a city that never disappoints... full of stunning architecture, delicious food, beautiful views, and lovely people. The Budapest Christmas Market was one of our favorites of the trip. Actually there are at least 2 major Christmas markets in Budapest- one in the city center and one in front of St. Stephen's Cathedral. Both have …

A big part of any river cruise, especially with AMA, is the fantastic gourmet food and wine. Every meal is a celebration that is elegantly presented - delicious and varied with multiple small tasting courses and lovely wines.

Once on every cruise, each guest is also treated to an exclusive tasting menu at the Chef's Table restaurant, an …

Walking onto the Amalea during the holiday season is walking into a winter wonderland. Strings of lights and garland line the staircases and billow in the windows. Each cabin door is decorated with a wreath and the dining room has lovely holiday lamps with blowing snow and winter scenes.

During the first day onboard, travelers were invited to …