Our new Best of the Danube itinerary, a 7-night roundtrip river cruise from Budapest, has been designed to enchant travelers of all styles. This itinerary was crafted with the guidance and expertise of AmaWaterways Co-Founder and “Godfather of River Cruising,” Rudi Schreiner, to combine the very best of river cruising. The itinerary includes visits to grand capital cities like Bratislava, excursions to iconic landmarks such as Melk Abbey, and overnight stays in Vienna and Budapest that offer more time for exploration in these popular destinations. Whether you are a first-time Danube River cruiser, you are seeking a memorable vacation for your extended family or you are a traveler simply seeking a relaxing respite on the rivers, this itinerary is sure to make your personal “best of” list.

An Array of Iconic Sights

Throughout this journey, you will cruise through the grand capital cities along the Danube and explore their most popular landmarks. In Bratislava, hike up to the impressive Bratislava Castle, which offers majestic views of the city below. While docked in Linz, you will have the opportunity to venture to Salzburg on a full-day tour, where you will visit this city’s historic center, stately Residenz Square and the stunning Basilica St. Michael in Mondsee, where the wedding scene from The Sound of Music was filmed. In Budapest, you can spend your morning exploring the fairytale-evoking Fisherman’s Bastion, offering magnificent city views from its hilltop perch, then admire the colossal Hungarian Parliament building on an afternoon city tour for a whole new perspective on the city.

A Generation-Spanning Journey

Best of the Danube is also excellent for families and groups looking for a unique vacation experience. With up to four included daily excursions, this itinerary allows you to choose whether you enjoy the sights together or explore the same city in different ways, uniting later in the day to share stories over a delicious meal in our Main Restaurant. In Vienna, for example, the whole family can enjoy a Fiaker, or horse-drawn carriage, ride through the historic city center as a traditionally dressed coachman regales you with fascinating stories of the city along the way. On your second day in Vienna, active family members can opt to hike through the famed Vienna Woods, while family members more interested in history can marvel at the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and gardens.

With overnights in Vienna and Budapest, this itinerary is also great if you are looking to explore Europe’s vibrant nightlife. Delight in a drink at one of Budapest’s famed ruin bars or take a nighttime ride on Vienna’s Wiener Riesenrad, the world’s oldest operating Ferris wheel. With departures from February through December, you can cruise in spring, summer or winter when school-aged children are on break. Select Best of the Danube departures will offer several music-themed excursions and live performances on board and on shore, perfect for groups and individuals interested in European music history.

Relax and Recharge on the River

Looking to slow down and really take in the sights and sounds along the Danube? This itinerary offers a “gentle walkers” tour in every city. These included options are perfect for guests with limited mobility or if you prefer to move at a more relaxed pace and take in all the sights. You will also be treated to several mornings of scenic cruising along the Danube River, including through the awe-inspiring Wachau and Strudengau valleys. Marvel at the surrounding landscapes from your stateroom balcony as you savor a cup of coffee or a refreshing cocktail. Or take this time to enjoy your ship’s generous amenities such as the sun-deck pool or complimentary host-led fitness classes.

Fly In and Out of Budapest

Best of the Danube is our only itinerary that cruises roundtrip from Budapest, Hungary. This makes travel planning even easier, as you can reserve roundtrip flights. Best of all, when you reserve your flights through AmaAir, convenient transfers between the airport and your river cruise ship are included in the price. Plus, AmaAir includes a friendly AmaWaterways airport representative who will help escort you to your coach when you arrive at the airport and, in some cases, will lead you all the way to your security gate when you depart as well!

Plus, this new itinerary offers a 2-night Budapest pre-cruise land package option that allows you to explore more of this amazing city—or simply rest after a day of international travel—while enjoying a stay in a 4- or 5-star hotel, a guided tour of the city, and the services of a dedicated AmaWaterways Cruise Manager before boarding your ship for the 7-night cruise.

Click here to reserve your Best of the Danube river cruise or contact your travel advisor.