Grand Highlights of Europe River Cruise

Your fare excludes:

Day 1 - Arrive Amsterdam, Embark Ship

Welcome to Amsterdam. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your ship. Settle into your suite before getting to know your fellow travellers and the APT Cruise Director at a welcome reception. Savour fresh locally sourced oysters with regional sparkling wine. After your first dinner on board, you may like to explore the city at your own pace.

Day 2 - Amsterdam

Spend the day in the Dutch capital on your preferred activity. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise 

Step aboard a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam's iconic maze of World Heritage-listed canals, admiring the unique gable facades of the buildings, and 17th-century architecture along the way - a tranquil way to experience the city.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Discovery

Discover the culinary favourites of The Netherlands. See and taste a variety of Dutch delicacies as you visit local producers.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride 

Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum.

Freedom of Choice – Keukenhof Gardens in Spring 

On select spring departures, you also have the option to visit Keukenhof Gardens. Explore more than 70 acres of world-renowned gardens and admire the spectacular display of more than seven million flowering bulbs in bloom, including colourful tulips.

Day 3 - Andernach

This morning will be spent cruising through Germany. Spend time enjoying the range of facilities on board. Perhaps indulge in a spa treatment or relax on the Daystar Deck and read a book. Disembark in Andernach, where an exclusive Signature Experience awaits. 

Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens, you’ll attend a cocktail party, where a pianist sets the mood.  

Day 4 - Rüdesheim

Today you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards. Dock in Rüdesheim, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, you’ll set out on your chosen activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.  

Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum 

Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This eccentric and unique museum is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar 

Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions. 

Day 5 - Miltenberg

This morning, delight in a relaxing cruise along the Main River before arriving in Miltenberg. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Here, set out on your chosen sightseeing activity.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Walking Tour and Liqueur Tasting

Embark on a guided exploration of Miltenberg. Discover the town's remarkably preserved buildings and lively squares, offering a unique glimpse into Germany’s rich history. Then, visit one of Franconia's oldest wine cellars for a tasting of local liqueurs.

Freedom of Choice – Local Monastery Visit

Travel to the hills overlooking Miltenberg for a visit to a local monastery. Here, you'll meet with a Franciscan friar to hear about life in the monastery. You'll also sample some homemade sausages, cheese and bread before free time to wander through the gardens and vineyard.

Day 6 - Würzburg

Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.  

Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence 

Be enchanted by the immense architectural beauty of Würzburg as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

Freedom of Choice – Tastes of Franconia

Travel to the Volkacher Mainschleife, the largest wine-growing region in Franconia and home to one of the most famous Franconian whisky distilleries. Here, enjoy a guided tour and meet the whisky and winemaker to uncover the art of making whisky. Savour a tasting of their finest creations paired with freshly baked bread from a local bakery.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg 

Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful houses. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wohlfahrt’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest selection of German Christmas decorations in the world. 

Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress 

Enjoy a hike to Würzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Fortress, an imposing castle overlooking the city, which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

Day 7 - Bamberg

This morning, your ship will arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another one of the few German cities that was not destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the Regnitz River. Following your tour, rejoin your ship to cruise onto the Main-Danube Canal. 

Day 8 - Nuremberg

This morning gives you the chance to choose your sightseeing activity. This afternoon, continue cruising along the Main-Danube Canal while indulging in a Bavarian beer, sausage and pretzel tasting on the Daystar Deck. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas.

Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites 

Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.  

Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour

Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and the main market square, as well as its 14th-century Gothic church.

Day 9 - Regensburg

Discover Regensburg on your chosen sightseeing activity today. 

Freedom of Choice – Explore Regensburg’s World Heritage-Listed City Centre

Set out on a guided tour to explore Regensburg's atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. Your tour will finish with a tasting at Regensburg’s historic sausage kitchen, thought to be one of the oldest working restaurants in the world. 

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial 

Get active and take a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Day 10 - Passau, Salzburg, Linz

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show 

Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, The Sound of Music. 

Day 11 - Melk, Dürnstein

Visit the spectacular Melk Abbey, one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. Then, it’s up to you how you get to the next port of call. In Dürnstein, perhaps view the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was imprisoned in 1192.

Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley 

Enjoy a cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, where you’ll roam its cobblestone lanes at your leisure.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Melk to Dürnstein 

Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Melk to Dürnstein and take in the beautiful scenery of the Wachau Valley along the way. 

Day 12 - Vienna

Arrive in Vienna and set out on a city tour. Take in the Austrian capital's many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore. This evening is set aside for your magical Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital. 

Day 13 - Vienna

Head out on your choice of tours, then set sail for Hungary.

Freedom of Choice – Schönbrunn Palace Visit 

Delve into royal history as you wander the lavishly furnished rooms and beautiful gardens of the famous Schönbrunn Palace.  

Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia 

Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture makes this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, the Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.

Freedom of Choice – Vienna Culinary Tour

Immerse yourself in Viennese cuisine on a culinary tour of Vienna's narrow streets. Visit a traditional cafe, try a classic Viennese sausage, and sample a sweet treat from one of the city's famous patisseries.

Day 14 - Budapest

Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today. The afternoon is yours at leisure to further explore. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a farewell to remember. Enjoy a performance of Hungarian folk music while you indulge in local brandy, as well as artisan meats and cheeses.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour 

Set out on a city tour of Budapest and take in its historic monuments, including Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Tour

Eat your way through Budapest as you embark on a tour of the Great Market Hall. Wander through this large indoor market and discover a variety of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Freedom of Choice – Fisherman’s Bastion 

Enjoy a funicular ride up to Castle Hill and take in the sweeping views over the river, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion, a beautiful historical monument.

Day 15 - Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest

Your extraordinary European adventure concludes today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.

Cruise Amsterdam to Budapest for 15 days aboard APT Solara or APT Ostara

Multiple departure dates from 10 Apr 2026 to 29 Dec 2027

Twin Window Suite - based on travel 10 Apr 2026

• Twin Share from $11,695 $8,995 pp*
• Sole Traveller from $19,345 $16,645 pp*

Twin Window Suite - based on travel 24 Mar 2027

• Twin Share from $11,995 $11,295 pp*
• Sole Traveller from $19,845 $19,145 pp*

Call Us Now to get up-to-date pricing and secure your preferred stateroom.

*Advertised fares are available until allocation is exhausted, and prices may fluctuate during the campaign period without notice.

Ship Overview

With a host of alluring features, our new generation of river ships, APT Solara and APT Ostara, offer unmatched luxury and elegance when travelling along the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers. Enjoy exceptional service with a generous crew-to-guest ratio, luxuriously​ appointed suites, and interiors designed by the award-winning Australian ​team at Hecker Guthrie. Step aboard to experience European river cruising​ like never before.

• Relax in beautifully curated spaces and relish shared stories, unhurried moments, and the freedom to choose how you spend each day, because true luxury isn’t about being seen — it’s about feeling completely at home, wherever the journey takes you.​
• With more dining venues than any other European river ship, APT Solara and APT Ostara offer the freedom to choose from seven distinct culinary experiences — all thoughtfully designed and flawlessly delivered. ​
• With just 154 guests and 60 crew, our exceptional crew goes beyond expectation, delivering service with personality, precision and pride in every interaction. Smaller guest numbers mean more meaningful connections — expect attentive service that’s warm, intuitive, and refreshingly personal.​
• Designed by acclaimed Australian studio Hecker Guthrie, every space seamlessly unites contemporary design with timeless European influence. The interiors feel curated, not constructed — inviting relaxation, connection, and quiet indulgence. ​
• Our exquisitely appointed suites feature interiors inspired by the changing seasons, offering a wealth of in-suite services and indulgent Marie-Stella-Maris amenities. Relax in an environment that is as calming as it is luxurious, with every element tailored to enhance your comfort. Whether you’re unwinding after a day of exploration or enjoying a quiet moment, these suites become a peaceful haven with the perfect backdrop to every view. ​

Twin Window Suite

Our Twin Window Suites are full of character and charm. Warm rustic tones and wooden accents combine with soft furnishings to inspire a feeling of serenity.

French Balcony Suite

Our opulent French Balcony Suites feature electric floor-to-ceiling sliding windows that open with ease, offering ample fresh air and light-filled interiors. Guests staying in Category P French Balcony Suites will also benefit from a complimentary laundry service.

Owner's Suite

Our most lavish suites feature spacious interiors and a large outdoor balcony. Panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows bathe the suite with sunlight and allow you to take in sweeping views of incredible riverside scenery. A separate sitting area beckons for private in-suite dining. Guests staying in our Owner's Suites will also benefit from a complimentary laundry and pressing service, along with a complimentary spa treatment.

❓ What is the Magnificent Europe tour?

The Magnificent Europe journey by APT Touring is a luxury river cruise through the heart of Europe, travelling along the great waterways that connect many of the continent’s most historic cities.

❓ Which rivers are included in the cruise?

The tour travels along the iconic Rhine River, Main River, and Danube River.

❓ Which countries will we visit?

Guests typically explore destinations across Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary.

❓ What cities are highlights of the journey?

Highlights often include iconic cities such as Amsterdam, Vienna, and Budapest.

❓ What makes APT river cruises special?

APT Touring cruises are known for their luxury ships, immersive excursions, expert guides, and all-inclusive experiences designed for relaxed and comfortable travel. 🌍🚢