Detailed ItinerarySEVEN RIVER JOURNEY: SPRING EDITION

Day 1: ARLES, FRANCE

• EMBARKATION

Board our most award-winning river cruise ship, the spectacular AmaKristina, in Arles, France. AmaKristina is named for her Godmother, AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder and Executive Vice President, Kristin Karst. Enjoy a special welcome aboard reception and dinner as your Seven River Journey begins on the Rhône River.

Day 2: AVIGNON, FRANCE– TARASCON, FRANCE

• Arles Walking Tour
• OR Bike tour
• OR Van Gogh walking tour
• Les Baux and Carriéres de Lumiéres
• Evening cruise to illuminated Pont d’Avignon

Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles enchants all with its tantalizing history, formerly a Roman center of trade. Join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. And for those who wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. During the afternoon, you’ll visit the enchanting medieval fortress, the Castle of Tarascon – a fortress designed to protect but surprises all with its elegant interior, fit for royalty. Or venture to the medieval hilltop village, Les Baux de Provence and then delve deeply into the Carrières des Lumières, where you’ll be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound and history projected on the former limestone quarry walls of caves. In the evening, enjoy a short cruise to Avignon where you will see Pont d’Avignon bridge, illuminated against the night sky.

Day 3: TARASCON, FRANCE

• Tarascon Castle visit

Provençal town Tarascon is known for its medieval architecture and charming tales – especially the legend of the Tarasque monster. Join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, you can enjoy a bike ride along the Rhône, through town to the Langlois Bridge, a famous subject from several Vincent Van Gogh paintings. And for those who wish to delve further into Van Gogh’s Arles, join a special walking tour along with a visit to the Vincent van Gogh Foundation, showcasing his legacy. During the afternoon, you’ll visit the enchanting medieval fortress, the Castle of Tarascon – a fortress designed to protect but surprises all with its elegant interior, fit for royalty. Or, delve deeply into the Carrières de Lumières, where you’ll be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound and history projected on the walls of caves. Afterwards, venture to the medieval hilltop village, Les Baux de Provence. Alternately, you can enjoy an excursion to explore the medieval, walled village of Aigues-Mortes. In the evening, enjoy an illuminations cruise around Avignon.

Day 4: VIVIERS, FRANCE – GRIGNAN, FRANCE – TOURNON, FRANCE

• Grignan Excursion & Truffle Farm

Take in the quaint surroundings of Viviers, a charming commune that sidles up to the right bank of the Rhône River. From Viviers, travel to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion. You will rejoin the ship for lunch in intimate Le Pouzin, cruising through the afternoon to Tournon, where you will spend the evening.

Day 5: TOURNON, FRANCE – LYON, FRANCE

• Steam train ride
• OR Red Wine & Chocolate
• OR Hermitage Hike & Wine Tasting

Take a steam train ride past magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux, stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthélemy le Plain, where the train maneuvers in preparation for its return journey. Alternatively, lovers of wine and chocolate will want to visit Le Château de Tournon for a presentation and tasting on the pairing of red wine and chocolate. For a more active adventure, take a hike through the vineyards of Tain l’Hermitage, followed by a visit to a local winery where you’ll sample some of the wines. Depart Tournon later in the day for Lyon, where AmaKristina will dock for the night.

Day 6: LYON, FRANCE

• Lyon City Tour
• OR Les Halles Market Tour
• OR Lyon Bike Tour
• OR Vienne walking tour
• DISEMBARKATION
• Transfer to Basel

Enjoy a delicious breakfast on board before venturing out into Lyon, considered the “Food Capital of France.” Take a walking tour that starts in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” Instead of the walking tour, you can visit the famous indoor market hall Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, named after the late chef renowned for his Michelin-starred l’Auberge du Pont de Collonges restaurant. There you’ll have a chance to sample of the delicacies offered by butchers, bakers, chocolatiers and cheesemongers while taking in the colorful sights and enticing aromas around you. Alternately, join a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. As a final choice, venture to Vienne by bus. Part of the Holy Roman Empire from the 9th through 15th centuries, Vienne is known for its 13,000-seat Roman amphitheater. Return to AmaKristina for lunch, then disembark and bid farewell to the ship’s crew as you enjoy a seamless transfer to Basel, Switzerland by bus, preparing to explore the Rhine River aboard AmaCerto.

Day 6: BASEL, SWITZERLAND

• EMBARKATION

Board the elegant AmaCerto, another of our fleet’s prestigious Green Award recipients, in Basel, nicknamed the “Cultural Capital of Switzerland.” Basel is renowned for its well-preserved Old Town, its whimsical Tinguely Fountain and its nearly 40 museums showcasing the arts and more. It is from this intriguing city that your journey continues along the fairytale Rhine River.

Day 7: BREISACH, GERMANY

• Riquewihr excursion
• OR Freiburg excursion
• OR Black Forest hike
• OR Breisach wine country bike tour

Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions, depending on your interests. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to go to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have “the most beautiful spire on earth.” Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the scenic countryside, or go on a hike to the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions.

Day 8: STRASBOURG, FRANCE

• “The Gem of Alsace” tour
• OR Strasbourg bike tour

Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace, offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la République. Then walk through its iconic UNESCO World Heritage “La Petite France” district, which appears to have been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through these charming streets and past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. For the active adventurer, you can take a guided bike ride through this captivating city and Parc de l’Orangerie.

Day 9: LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY – RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY

• “Romantic Heidelberg” excursion
• OR Heidelberg Philosopher’s Path hike
• OR “Secrets of Speyer” tour
• OR Ladenburg bike tour

Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of three excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher's Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. Or ride along the river Neckar to the medieval town of Ladenburg where you’ll have some free time to explore the shops and quaint Marktplatz. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the medieval Altpörtel, Old Gate.

Day 10: RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY – RHINE GORGE – LAHNSTEIN, GERMAN

• Gondola ride
• OR Vineyard hike
• OR Guided bike tour of the Rheingau
• Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising
• Exclusive Burg Lahneck

Your exploration of Rüdesheim continues with your choice of three excursions. Take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the river. If you prefer a more active adventure, hike through Rüdesheim’s vineyards, taking in views of the town, the Roman Bridge and Bromersburg Castle. Or join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles to Lahnstein where you’ll enjoy an exclusive private visit to Lahneck Castle. Perched atop a steep rock hill above the confluence of the Lahn and Rhine rivers, this 13-century medieval fortress offers fascinating stories, such as that of the twelve Knights Templar, which you will hear during your unique tour.

Day 11: COLOGNE, GERMANY

• “Holy City” walking tour and cathedral visit
• OR Cologne bike tour

Home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral, this 2,000-year-old city is also a bustling cosmopolitan hotspot. During your introductory visit to the city, join a guided walking tour through Cologne’s enchanting Old Town and explore the spectacular UNESCO-designated cathedral, where the remains of the fabled Three Kings—the Magi— are believed to rest. For a more active exploration of this history-rich city, cycle through Old Town, taking in the sights, including the Rathaus (Town Hall) and cathedral, and pedal along the river back to the ship where your wonderful crew awaits.

Day 12: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

• Canal cruise tour
• OR A Taste of Amsterdam

Enjoy your premier visit to vibrant Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, during this journey. Renowned for its UNESCO-designated canals (of which there are more than 165), tight rows of narrow homes and phenomenal museums, the city was once home to both Rembrandt and Anne Frank. Your Netherlands immersion begins with a scenic canal cruise.

Day 13: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Please refer to days 13-20 for further details

Day 13: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

• Haarlem and the Hague excursion

During your second day in Amsterdam, enjoy a completely different experience brimming with unique history. Visit Haarlem, the capital of North Holland and one of the most photogenic cities in the Netherlands. Enjoy a canal cruise through Haarlem, which boasts spectacular historic architecture, gabled houses, cobblestone streets, several museums and winding waterways. Visit the Mauritshuis Museum known for its Dutch Golden Age paintings, including the 'Girl With the Pearl Earring' by Johannes Vermeer.

Day 14: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – HOORN, NETHERLANDS

• The IJsselmeer scenic cruising
• Tulips and bulb fields
• OR Hoorn walking tour and Zuiderzee Museum
• OR Dutch countryside bike tour

Enjoy a scenic cruise through the IJsselmeer to Hoorn, where you have a choice of three excursions. Visit a family-run tulip farm with over one million tulips, each in different phases of growth and in many species and colors. For those seeking to travel back in time, you can visit the Zuiderzee Museum, providing insight into the maritime culture and history of the lively Zuiderzee region. And for more active adventurers, go for a guided bike ride through the Dutch countryside.

Day 15: MIDDELBURG, NETHERLANDS

• Scenic cruising
• Middelburg walking tour
• OR Delta Works visit
• OR Middelburg bike ride

After enjoying a scenic cruise through the Delta, you can explore medieval Middelburg along the Scheldt River. Middelburg was the second largest trading city of the Dutch East India Company. Or, if you feel like exploring the city on two wheels, a guided bike ride is the perfect choice. Alternatively, you may discover the intriguing history of how the Delta Works, a unique storm surge barrier, came to be while visiting the Flood Museum. More than half of the Netherlands lies below sea level, and the Delta Works were built to prevent a recurrence of the 1953 flood disaster.

Day 16: GHENT, BELGIUM (BRUGES, BELGIUM)

• Highlights of Ghent and Bruges
• OR Ghent walking tour and free time
• OR Belgian chocolate workshop
• OR Full-day Bruges and Church of Our Lady

Ghent lies at the confluence of the Lys and Scheldt rivers. There, you will have several choices of excursions, depending on your interests. For those who wish to discover two medieval cities, Ghent and Bruges, you’ll wish to go on a highlights tour. Admire Ghent’s canal-side architecture and some of its famous sights, including the Castle of the Counts and Ghent Cathedral, and then visit Bruges, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe. Alternatively, you may go on a full-day excursion to Bruges, which includes a visit to the Church of Our Lady, home to the beautiful Carrara marble Madonna and Child sculpture by Michelangelo. Those more inclined to learn about the art of Belgian chocolate making can join a master chocolatier as he shares his insights. And for those who wish to enjoy more free time, join a walking tour of Ghent, followed by leisure time.

Day 17: ANTWERP, BELGIUM

• Walking tour and cathedral visit
• OR Rubens House
• OR Antwerp bike tour
• Belgian chocolate, beer and waffle tasting
• OR Floralia Flower Show

Continue your journey along the river Scheldt by exploring this trendy city on a walking tour where you’ll see Antwerp’s Steen Castle, Grote Market and Brabo Fountain, along with the UNESCO-designated Cathedral of Our Lady. For a more active exploration of the area, join a guided bike tour. Or you can visit the Rubens House, the former home of the famous 17th-century Flemish Baroque painter. Later in the afternoon, you have a choice of two excursions. Foodies will want to go on a culinary tour to indulge in chocolate, waffles and beer. Flower lovers and gardeners can roam through the Floralia, an annual spring flower show featuring approximately one million bulbs that are hand-planted each year by the castle staff.

Day 18: ROTTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – KINDERDIJK, NETHERLANDS

• Rotterdam walking tour and Tastes of Rotterdam
• OR Rotterdam architectural bike tour
• Kinderdijk UNESCO Windmills
• OR Kinderdijk bike tour

Experience a delight of the Maas River: Rotterdam, nicknamed the “Gateway to Europe.” During the morning, you can go on a walking tour and taste local specialties. Or visit Delfshaven, where, on August 1, 1620, the Pilgrim fathers departed on their epic journey aboard the Speedwell. Stopping in Southampton, many then boarded the Mayflower and concluded their journey at Plymouth Rock in Massachusetts. If you prefer a more active adventure, then go on a bike ride through Rotterdam and past some of its famous landmarks and architecture. In the afternoon, venture to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kinderdijk, a lovely village renowned for having the country’s greatest concentration of windmills, all dating from the 18th century. You may also pedal past the windmills from the seat of a bike.

Day 19: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

• Keukenhof Gardens excursion
• Amsterdam canal cruise

One of the most impressive public gardens in the world, Keukenhof, presents a spectacular display of millions of flowering tulips spread out over 70 acres. Spend time ambling through this legendary garden, open only nine weeks a year and sometimes referred to as the "Garden of Europe." Later in the day, admire Amsterdam’s historic harbor and canals, where you’ll see beautiful homes lining the water and the fabled Skinny Bridge. If you prefer exploring the world with your taste buds, stroll past traditional canals, gabled houses, narrow bridges and house boats to taste Dutch specialties at a grand Amsterdam café.

*Note: If Keukenhof Gardens closes prior to May 8, 2023, this tour will take place on an earlier date.

Day 20: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Please refer to Days 20-37 for further details

Day 20: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

• Aalsmeer flower auction

Experience the hustle and bustle of the Aalsmeer Flower Auction, the largest flower auction in the world, where you’ll join a tour through the immense global marketplace and see millions of blooms as they are transported through.

Day 21: AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

• Jewish Heritage Tour
• OR Art tour with Rijksmuseum visit

Delve even more deeply into the cultural heritage of Amsterdam during your extended stay in port. Choose a walking tour during which we’ll introduce you to historical sites related to Amsterdam’s Jewish Heritage, from the 17th-century Portuguese Synagogue to the Jewish Historical Museum. Explore Amsterdam’s Jewish District to dive into the history of Jewish society in Amsterdam. Alternatively, art connoisseurs can discover the world’s largest collection of Dutch and Flemish art at the Rijksmuseum showcasing renowned works by Rembrandt and Vermeer, including “The Night Watch” and “The Milkmaid.”

Day 22: COLOGNE, GERMANY

• Kölsch beer and Reibekuchen tasting

Be welcomed back to the vibrant city of Cologne for a second time as you immerse yourself in the local culture, as well as a source of pride for residents: Cologne’s famous Kölsch beer. Visit a tavern in the city and intermingle with the locals as you try this special beer only made in Cologne and served in a long narrow stange glass. Your Kölsch will be paired with reibekuchen, Germany’s delicious potato pancakes typically served with applesauce.

Day 23: RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY

• Schloss Johannisberg wine tasting

Be treated to a second daytime passage through the fascinating Rhine Gorge past its many well-preserved castles. Then, return to the lovely town of Rüdesheim to partake in one of its timeless traditions: winemaking. You and your fellow guests will enjoy a special wine tasting at Schloss Johannisburg. Visit this beautiful palace and tour their cellars, learning more about the traditional methods drawn from historical winemaking practices, as well as tasting some traditional Rheingau German wines. If you prefer to enjoy the fresh air and scenery from the seat of a bicycle, pedal through this vineyard-rich area to Schloss Johannisburg on a lovely, guided bike tour.

Day 24: MAINZ, GERMANY – LAHNSTEIN (KOBLENZ), GERMANY

• City tour with Guttenberg Museum
• OR Mainz Marc Chagall Excursion
• Koblenz Walking tour

Arrive in Mainz, located at the confluence of the Main and Rhine rivers. Enjoy a walking tour of Mainz’s Old Town with a visit to the Gutenberg Museum, where you will learn more about the German visionary’s inventions and have an opportunity to admire two of his original mid-15th century Gutenberg Bibles. Later in the day, cruise for a second time to Lahnstein where your ship will dock once more as you venture to the 2,000-year-old town of Koblenz for a walking tour. Located near three parts of the Berlin Wall, Koblenz is also famous for its whimsical Schängel Fountain.

Day 25: MOSELLE VALLEY, GERMANY – COCHEM, GERMANY

• Scenic cruising
• Reichsburg Castle and walking tour
• OR Cochem hike
• OR Cochem bike tour

Spend the morning on Mother’s Day by taking in the beauty of the Moselle River on this scenic stretch of the river before reaching Cochem with its half-timbered houses and Reichsburg Castle. Join a guided tour through the castle and then walk through its Old Town. For those wishing to have a more active exploration of the area, you can hike up to the Reichsburg Castle or go on a guided bike tour through Cochem. Plus, since today is Mother’s Day, enjoy a special celebration on board.

Day 26: BERNKASTEL, GERMANY

• Walking tour
• OR Landshut Castle hike
• OR Moselle bike tour

Located in the middle of the Moselle Valley’s wine-producing region is Bernkastel, renowned for its winemaking prowess, its Landshut Castle and its fountain dedicated to the “Bernkasteler Doctor.” Legend has it a winemaker from the town once cured the illness of a local elector with his “elixir.” Walk through Bernkastel’s colorful Old Town center and past many medieval and Renaissance buildings. Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from two active alternatives. Pedal along the Moselle River from Bernkastel to intimate Losnich, where you will cross the river, taking in such sites as the historic Abbey Machern, Roman ruins in the winemaking town of Erden and the sun-kissed vineyards for which this region is renowned. Or take an invigorating fast-paced hiking tour to Landshut Castle, passing many historic sites along the way.

Day 27: WASSERBILLIG, LUXEMBOURG

Please refer to Days 27-34 for further details

Day 27: WASSERBILLIG, LUXEMBOURG

• Luxembourg city tour
• OR Battle of the Bulge tour

Arrive in one of Europe’s last independent duchies. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the city of Luxembourg and its picturesque gabled houses followed by a wine tasting. Spend free time for lunch at your own leisure before visiting the American Cemetery and Memorial, the final resting place of General George Patton.

Day 28: SCHWEICH, GERMANY – PIESPORT (TRIER), GERMANY – BERNKASTEL, GERMANY

• “Rome of the North” tour
• OR Ancient Tales of the Porta Nigra
• OR Petrisberg Castle hike
• Wine tasting
• OR Bernkastel hike
• OR Bike tour

Cruise along the Moselle River from Schweich to Piesport, from which you will venture to Trier. Germany’s oldest city, Trier is renowned for its rich ancient Roman past, and referred to as the “Rome of the North” or “Second Rome” as it has impressive Roman relics and nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Join a guided tour of the city, including the old Roman amphitheater, Roman Baths and Basilica of Constantine. Alternatively, go in search of the secrets of the Porta Nigra Gate, dating back to 180 A.D., on a tour that takes you back to a time when Rome ruled the world from the Emperor’s seat in Trier. You also have the choice of a hike high above Trier to Petrisberg or a bike tour along the Moselle River, past the Imperial Baths and Porta Nigra Gate. Later in the day, we will sail once more to Bernkastel so you can taste the rich culture of this town with a visit to Bergweiler Winery. There you will stroll among the vineyards and enjoy a tasting of four of their wines.

Day 29: ALKEN, GERMANY – KOBLENZ, GERMANY – RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY

• Castle Eltz visit
• OR Moselle bike tour
• Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum
• OR Rüdesheimer coffee

Arrive in one of the lower Moselle’s oldest villages, Alken, situated beneath the majestic Burg Thurant, a restored 12th-century castle. Venture from Alken to the nearby Castle Eltz, a postcard-perfect fortress nestled within the Eltz Forest that has been owned by a branch of the very same family that has lived there for 33 generations. Inside you’ll take a tour, where you might see the elegantly decorated study, the medieval Knight’s Hall and the armoury. Or opt for a scenic bike ride from Alken to Koblenz where you will then meet the ship. Later in the day, guests on all tours will reboard the ship in Koblenz where you can relax on the Sun Deck for an amazing afternoon scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge for one last time.

Day 30: RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY – MAINZ, GERMANY

• OR Rüdesheim to Mainz bike tour

Wave hello and goodbye to charming Rüdesheim on the Rhine and head back to Mainz for a second visit to this incredible city to learn more about a special part of its history. There you will visit the Collegiate Church of St. Stephan, best known for the glowing blue stained-glass windows designed by renowned artist Marc Chagall, created after World War II as a sign of Jewish-German reconciliation and international understanding. Alternatively, pedal along the banks of the Rhine River from Rüdesheim to Mainz on a guided bike tour.

Day 31: WERTHEIM, GERMANY

• Wertheim walking tour
• OR Pretzel Bakery visit and tasting
• OR Wertheim Castle Hill hike
• OR Guided bike ride along the Main

Wertheim’s old town center still features half-timbered houses and the Gothic architecture of the Stiftskirche, its oldest Protestant church. You may either join a guided walking tour through the historic city center or learn the art of pretzel making with a visit to a local bakery. For those seeking a more active adventure, take a scenic bike ride through the Main River Valley or hike high above the town for a visit to the castle, one of the most picturesque ruins in Germany.

Day 32: WÜRZBURG, GERMANY

• Würzburg walking tour
• OR Residenz Palace visit
• OR Rothenburg excursion
• OR Marienberg Castle hike
• DISEMBARKATION
• Transfer to Vilshofen

Enjoy more of the storybook villages along the Main River with a city tour of Würzburg, bursting with Baroque splendor. Or visit Würzburg’s Baroque Residenz Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features an opulent interior, including a grand fresco by Tiepolo. Or stretch your legs while hiking to Würzburg Castle. Alternately, go on a full-day excursion to Rothenburg, Germany’s best-preserved walled town located on the Romantic Road. Later in the day, bid farewell to AmaCerto and allow AmaWaterways’ wonderful crew to take care of your luggage as you transfer by bus to the Danube River town of Vilshofen, Germany, where you will board the extraordinary AmaMagna, honored as one of TIME Magazine’s World’s Greatest Places in 2019.

Day 32: VILSHOFEN, GERMANY

• EMBARKATION
• Oktoberfest celebration

Discover the luxury of more as you board the ultra-luxurious AmaMagna, voted in the 2020 USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice awards as the “Best River Cruise Ship” and one of our 18 European ships with Green Award certification. In the evening, be treated to an exclusive Bavarian Oktoberfest celebration complete with music, beer and sausages – just for AmaWaterways guests.

Day 33: PASSAU, GERMANY

• “City of Three Rivers” walking tour
• OR Passau Castle hike
• OR Guided bike ride from Passau to Wernstein

Delight in one of the Danube River’s most enchanting Bavarian towns: Passau. Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau is located at the confluence the Danube, Ilz and Inn rivers. Join a walking tour and marvel at Passau's Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, known for having the second largest church pipe organ in the world. Or take a guided hike up to the historic Veste Oberhaus fortress for scenic views over the three rivers and city below. You can also ride to Wernstein, known for its restored castle, on a guided bike tour.

Day 34: LINZ, AUSTRIA (SALZBURG, AUSTRIA OR ČESKÝ KRUMLOV, CZECH REPUBLIC) – GREIN, AUSTRIA

• “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour
• OR “Cultural Mile” bike tour
• OR Full-day Salzburg excursion
• Half-day Český Krumlov excursion
• Greinburg Castle visit

Join a walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House, where the legendary musician composed his Linz Symphony; or bike along the city’s famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube River. For those who love The Sound of Music, enjoy a full-day excursion to Salzburg and 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, where the famous wedding scene in the movie was filmed. In the afternoon, and for those not joining the full-day excursion to Salzburg, you can add another country to your journey by visiting the charming mountain town of Český Krumlov, just across the border in the Czech Republic. Later in the day, visit Greinburg Castle, the oldest residential castle in Austria.

Day 35: MELK, AUSTRIA (DÜRNSTEIN, AUSTRIA) – SPITZ, AUSTRIA

• Melk Abbey
• OR Melk to Marbach bike tour
• Dürnstein walking tour
• OR Dürnstein Fortress hike
• OR Spitz hike
• OR Spitz to Emmersdorf bike tour
• Exclusive Wine Experience

In the morning, you can visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey situated high atop the granite cliffs of the Danube, or get active with a bike to Marbach, Austria before returning to Melk and the ship for lunch. During the afternoon, journey to Spitz, where no other ship can dock when AmaMagna is in port, and take a guided excursion to Dürnstein, Austria to stroll along the cobblestone streets to the Baroque Stiftskirche, with its famed church tower, on a walking tour. Those who wish for a more active adventure of the area can hike to the historic Dürnstein Fortress, cycle roundtrip from Spitz to Emmersdorf, or hike around Spitz up to Rotes Tor. In the evening, be treated to an exclusive wine tasting experience at the historic Klosterhof restaurant where you’ll enjoy some of the region’s famous wines accompanied by live music.

Day 36: VIENNA, AUSTRIA

• “Imperial Vienna” tour
• OR Vienna bike tour
• OR Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens

Vienna offers a wealth of gems 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 Vienna’s historic city center, and then visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral; or discover Vienna by bike. Alternatively, visit the Palace of Schönbrunn, an exquisite example of Baroque architecture and opulence. Built as the summer residence of the Habsburg Emperors and spanning an astounding 1,441 rooms, this Rococo palace soon became one of their favorite homes. Your visit will include a guided tour of the Imperial apartments, the carriage museum and the equally impressive gardens.

Day 37: BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

• “Coronation City of Kings” walking tour
• OR Tastes of Slovakia
• OR 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 to try the city’s craft beer paired with local snacks at a local brew pub. For a more active adventure, hike to the city’s most famous historic landmark, its gleaming, red-roofed castle, once home to the Hungarian crown jewels for nearly 200 years.

Day 38: BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

• Danube Bend Scenic Cruising
• “Queen of the Danube” tour
• OR Castle Hill hike

During the morning, sail toward Budapest, passing through the scenic Danube Bend where you’ll see some of Hungary’s oldest settlements, including Esztergom, Visegrád and Szentendre. Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture and tradition. Visit the Great Market Hall before going to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. You’ll see Heroes’ Square and Castle Hill, home to the Fisherman’s Bastion and Mattias Church. As an alternative, hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city.

Day 39: BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Please refer to Days 39-46 for further details

Day 39: BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

• Opera House & Liszt Museum
• OR Jewish Heritage tour

Enjoy a distinctive experience immersing yourself in either the arts or deeply rooted heritage of Budapest during your second day in this phenomenal city. Celebrate the joy of music when visiting the beautiful Hungarian State Opera House, known for its neo-Renaissance and baroque décor. Discover where Hungarian classical music culture came to life as you walk through the backstage and on to the main stage, followed by a reception and small performance. You will then visit the Liszt House and museum, previously home to one of Hungary’s greatest composers and virtuoso pianists. Immerse yourself into the history of music as you will see a collection of pianos, portraits and personal objects of an influential pianist of the 19th century. Alternatively, enjoy a walking and panoramic tour into Budapest's historic Jewish Quarter with its Great Synagogue, the largest in Europe and the second largest in the world, at its heart. Other prominent attractions include the Holocaust Memorial, a weeping willow tree with the names of Hungary's Jewish Holocaust victims inscribed on each leaf; and the Shoes on the Danube, a poignant memorial to the Budapest Jewish community. 

Day 40: BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – MOHÁCS, HUNGARY – PÉCS, HUNGARY

• Scenic cruising
• Pécs excursion
• OR Szekszárd wine tasting
• OR Guided Bike Ride Along the Danube

Enjoy a scenic morning cruise southeast of Budapest to Mohács, along the portion of the river known as the “Lower Danube.” You’ll 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. Or for wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. You may also take an exhilarating guided bike tour around Mohács.

Day 41: VUKOVAR (ILOK), CROATIA – NOVI SAD, SERBIA

• City tour and Eltz Castle
• OR Croatian wine tasting
• “The Athens of Serbia” walking tour
• OR Fruska Gora National Park hike
• OR Novi Sad bike tour
• Petrovaradin Fortress Evening Walk

Vukovar is a Croatian symbol of resistance, which you’ll better understand on your city tour showcasing the Ovčara Memorial and Eltz Castle. Alternatively, choose a wine tasting in Ilok, a center of wine production since Roman times, where you’ll sample its famous Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. Back on board, cruise to Novi Sad, sometimes called the “Serbian Athens.” Discover Novi Sad on a walking tour to Dunavski Park and through Stari Grad, the Old Town center. If you prefer a more active exploration, join a guided biking tour or hike through Fruska Gora National Park. During the evening, visit Petrovaradin Fortress, a mighty stronghold no enemy has ever breached.

Day 42: BELGRADE, SERBIA

• “The City by Two Rivers” tour
• OR Royal Palace and Tito’s Memorial tour
• OR Belgrade Fortress hike 
• Quburich Brandy Tasting & Avala Mountain
• OR Belgrade bike tour

Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Kalemegdan Fortress, Skadarlija Street and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava. Visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Serbian Royal Family; and then tour the House of Flowers, the mausoleum of Marshal Tito, who became the first President of Yugoslavia. Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. Later in the day, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian plum brandy, Šlivovitz, and delicious local delights at the Quburich Distillery. For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour.

Day 43: IRON GATES, SERBIA AND ROMANIA

• Golubac Fortress visit
• Scenic Cruising – The Iron Gates

Visit Golubac Fortress – a medieval fortified town on the south side of the Danube River – before cruising through the Iron Gates. The Iron Gates Gorge is one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube River narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains, forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. The ancient King Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, is proudly carved into the mountainside and always captivates travelers.

Day 44: VIDIN, BULGARIA

• Vidin Walking Tour
• Belogradchik Excursion & Baba Vida Fortress
• OR Banitsa pastry and yogurt tasting
• OR Vidin walking tour
• OR Vidin bike tour

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. Continue to Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria’s natural wonders, where you can hike around its most spectacular rock formations. 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.

Day 45: ROUSSE, BULGARIA – GIURGIU, ROMANIA.

• Veliko Tarnovo excursion
• OR Ivanovo Rock-Hewn Churches & Rousse Highlights Tour
• Bucharest Excursion

Visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead 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. Later in the day, travel through the Romanian countryside to the capital of Bucharest, known as the “Little Paris of the East.” Enjoy a panoramic tour of the historic city center and its elegant architecture.

Day 46: GIURGIU, ROMANIA

• DISEMBARKATION

Bid farewell to Giurgiu, your traveling companions, your Cruise Manager and wonderful crew, who have become your AmaWaterways family, as you conclude your Seven River Journey Through Europe on the Danube River and prepare for your flight home. Or prepare to be whisked away to your hotel for your optional post-river cruise land package in either Istanbul, Turkey – adding both a new city and continent, Asia, to your itinerary – or Transylvania (available upon request – contact your travel advisor for details).