Magnificent Europe
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. 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 and Vienna. All of this and more awaits on one all-encompassing magnificent journey.
This river cruise journeys through Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Hungary, calling at Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Düsseldorf, Rüdesheim, Wertheim, Würzburg, Eltmann and Nuremberg.
You’ll sail aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaSofia, AmaLea and 2 sister ships.
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.
- 19 Feb 2028 – 04 Mar 2028
from $7,993 pp twin share * - 04 Mar 2028 – 18 Mar 2028
from $8,712 pp twin share * - 29 Apr 2028 – 13 May 2028
from $11,514 pp twin share * - 13 May 2028 – 27 May 2028
from $11,514 pp twin share * - 27 May 2028 – 10 Jun 2028
from $11,514 pp twin share * - 10 Jun 2028 – 24 Jun 2028
from $11,514 pp twin share * - 07 Oct 2028 – 21 Oct 2028
from $11,946 pp twin share * - 21 Oct 2028 – 04 Nov 2028
from $11,946 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Amsterdam
ARRIVE IN AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS – EMBARKATION. Step aboard your ship in Amsterdam and feel the city’s energy as it glides past elegant canal houses and vibrant neighborhoods.
Day 2 – Amsterdam
AMSTERDAM. Experience Amsterdam from its canals on a private cruise, viewing important landmarks and gabled houses as you glide beneath graceful bridges. Or, as a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, tour the world-renowned Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age.
Day 3 – Düsseldorf
COLOGNE, GERMANY. Cruise to Cologne and delve into the enchanting Old Town on a guided tour followed by a tasting of the city’s signature Kölsch beer. Alternatively, as a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, take an architecture tour that includes a visit to the 13th-century Dom Cathedral, explore the extensive Roman ruins of Cologne, or enjoy a guided bike ride along the Rhine.
Day 4 – Rüdesheim
RHINE GORGE – RÜDESHEIM. Glide through the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, where castles perch above rolling vineyards along the river. Quaint towns and riverside paths invite you to linger, breathe in the scenery, and embrace the timeless beauty of this storied stretch. Every turn of the river reveals a new vista, offering quiet reflection or a moment to capture the perfect memory.
Day 5 – Wertheim
WERTHEIM. Enjoy Wertheim, considered to have one of Germany’s most beautiful city centers. While here hike to the ruins of Wertheim Castle, delight in a scenic bicycle ride along the Main River Valley or go to a pretzel bakery for a delicious tasting.
Day 6 – Würzburg
WÜRZBURG. Würzburg’s Baroque architecture and elegant streets reflect a rich cultural heritage. Explore the grand façades, intricate gardens, and riverbanks that have inspired travelers for generations. Whether wandering the streets or hiking to vantage points, the city’s beauty and charm provide a serene backdrop for leisurely exploration.
Day 7 – Eltmann
ELTMANN – BAMBERG. Today, you will explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Bamberg. Take a guided tour of this medieval gem to see its diverse architecture, from the cathedral to its elegant mansions. Or taste your way through town, sampling smoked beer, pralines, and hörnla pastries. As a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, walk along the historic Ludwig Canal to Lock 100, still in use today.
Day 8 – Nuremberg
NUREMBERG. Nuremberg’s streets rise beneath its castle, blending centuries of architecture, art, and history. Wander the Old Town, discover local traditions, and feel the energy of a city that has shaped Europe’s past. Every turn offers a glimpse into the city’s stories, from grand squares to quiet courtyards.
Day 9 – Nuremberg
NUREMBERG. Nuremberg’s cobblestone streets wind past medieval towers, ancient fountains, and colorful façades that whisper centuries of stories. The city’s rhythm blends history, artistry, and everyday life, inviting quiet strolls and moments of reflection. From the Old Town’s charming squares to the riverbanks that frame its skyline, Nuremberg reveals a city shaped by time, culture, and enduring spirit.
Day 10 – Regensburg
REGENSBURG. Explore Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once the seat of the Holy Roman Empire. Discover the Roman-era Porta Praetoria and the Old Town Hall. As a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, visit the House of Bavarian History Museum, acclaimed for its architecture as well as its exhibitions, and see the impressive monument of Walhalla, built in the style of a Greek temple honouring cultural, scientific and artistic contributions of German speaking celebrities.
Day 11 – Passau
PASSAU. Arrive in Passau, situated where the Danube meets the Inn and Ilz rivers. As a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, spend the day in Salzburg where on your walking tour you will see sights from The Sound of Music. Tour Salzburg’s UNESCO-designated Old Town, from Mozart’s home to the gardens of Mirabell Palace. Or stay in Passau and enjoy a walking tour with hand-made pretzels and chocolates, a guided bike ride, or a hike to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress.
Day 12 – Melk
MELK, AUSTRIA. Enter the breathtaking Wachau Valley, a UNESCO-listed stretch of the Danube River. As a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, tour the Benedictine Melk Abbey, a marvel of Baroque architecture perched above the river, and meet a librarian to learn how medieval books are meticulously restored. Alternatively, hike up to the abbey or embark on a guided bike tour along the Danube River.
Day 13 – Vienna
VIENNA. Glide into Austria’s capital and tour its imperial treasures, from the majestic Opera House to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which has stood watch over the city center for 700 years. Explore the city by bike, or follow a guide through Kunsthistorisches Museum Wien, where a breathtaking fine art collection is housed within an opulent neoclassical building. Enjoy free time in Vienna this afternoon.
Day 14 – Budapest
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Budapest’s dual personalities unfold along the Danube, from hilly Buda to flat Pest. Wander historic streets, admire panoramic vistas, or explore vibrant squares and quiet lanes. The city’s rich culture, architecture, and riverside charm provide endless opportunities for reflection and discovery.
Day 15 – Budapest
DISEMBARKATION – DEPART BUDAPEST. Bid adieu to Budapest and prepare for your flight home.
Highlights
- Included canal cruise and Cologne Cathedral architecture tour
- Choice of standard, bike, hiking and special interest tours
- Sail aboard AmaWaterways river ships including AmaSofia and AmaLea
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. 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 and Vienna. All of this and more awaits on one all-encompassing magnificent journey.
This river cruise journeys through Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Hungary, calling at Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Düsseldorf, Rüdesheim, Wertheim, Würzburg, Eltmann and Nuremberg.
You’ll sail aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaSofia, AmaLea and 2 sister ships.
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.
Inclusions
- Canal cruise.
- Cologne Walking Tour & Kolsch.
- Cologne Cathedral Architecture tour.
- Cologne Guided Bike Tour.
- Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet.
- Gondola Ride.
FAQs
Accommodation is aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaSofia, AmaLea and 2 sister ships.
Stateroom categories available
- Suite
- Category AA
- Category AB
- Category BA
- Category BB
- Category CA
- Category CB
- Category D
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 15 days and 14 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 19 Feb 2028 and 04 Nov 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
Provided by: AMAWaterwaysFine Print
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