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2 departures
Experience Old-World Europe's Christmas markets and Danube River heritage aboard elegantly decorated ships
- Prague's spires and Cesky Krumlov's Baroque architecture
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Melk Abbey and Wachau Valley
- Christmas Markets throughout Europe's grandest cities
Trip Details
- Departs
- Sat 21 Nov 2026
- Returns
- Sat 28 Nov 2026
- Embarks
- Vilshofen
- Disembarks
- Budapest
- Ship
- AmaLea
- Operator
- AMA Waterways
Those longing for the romance and festivity of Old-World Europe will travel into the very heart of the continent, where empires were built, kings and queens were crowned, and some of the world’s greatest music was composed by the likes of Mozart and Beethoven. The timeless Christmas Markets scattered throughout Europe’s grandest cities continue to inspire wonder around the world, but these are only a taste of the incredible sites you will visit along the Danube. Admire the beauty of the Czech Republic, from Prague, the "City of a Hundred Spires," to the charming mountain town of Český Krumlov. From grand abbeys and fortresses perched high above the Danube to plentiful iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, celebrate the holidays ahead of the crowds aboard some of the most elegantly decorated ships on the rivers.
This river cruise journeys through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, calling at Vilshofen, Vilshofen, Linz, Weissenkirchen, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and Budapest.
You'll sail aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaSonata and AmaLea.
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.
Your transports AmaLea
AmaLea
- Deck plans
- 4
Piano Deck
Source: AmaWaterways, captured 10 October 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.
AmaSonata
- Deck plans
- 4
Piano Deck
Source: AmaWaterways, captured 10 October 2026. Deck plans are provided by the cruise line and are subject to change at any time.
Itinerary
- 1
Vilshofen
Sat 21 NovEMBARKATION – VILSHOFEN, GERMANY. Embark your cruise in Vilshofen. This evening meet your fellow passengers on board. - 2
Vilshofen
Sun 22 NovVILSHOFEN – PASSAU. Explore Vilshofen’s beautiful old town before cruising to Passau, known as the “City of Three Rivers.” Join a walking tour or if you prefer to be more active, hike high into the hills for a visit to the “Veste Oberhaus,” Passau’s Castle Hill. - 3
Linz
Mon 23 NovLINZ, AUSTRIA. The ship arrives in Linz where you’ll have several choices of excursions. 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. 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. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. Not combinable with other tours on this day. - 4
Weissenkirchen
Tue 24 NovWEISSENKIRCHEN. 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, you’ll 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’ll 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. - 5
Vienna
Wed 25 NovVIENNA. 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. - 6
Bratislava
Thu 26 NovVIENNA. While the shop docks in Vienna, venture to Bratislava for your excursions. 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. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. Alternatively, if the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Markets are open during your departure, you may wander the stalls and enjoy seasonal delights. When open; check tourist office for more information. - 7
Budapest
Fri 27 NovBUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Today you have the opportunity to visit the Buda (hilly) side of the Danube River. Follow your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will 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. - 8
Budapest
Sat 28 NovBUDAPEST – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark the ship as you prepare for your flight home.
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
- Exclusive Oktoberfest.
- Free Time.
- “City of Three Rivers” walking tour.
- Passau Castle hike.
- Danube Bike tour.
- Full-day Salzburg excursion.
Accommodation
Accommodation is aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaSonata and AmaLea.
Stateroom categories available
- Suite
- Category AA
- Category AB
- Category BA
- Category BB
- Category CA
- Category CB
- Category D
Common questions about this voyage
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Book this cruise
Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.
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Romantic Danube (Taste of Christmas)
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- Accommodation aboard AmaWaterways river ships AmaReina and AmaLea
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- Multiple daily excursion options including hikes, bike tours and cultural experiences