Journey along the Rhine River, Main River, and Danube River
Explore highlights including Amsterdam, Vienna, and Budapest
Trip Details
Departs
Wed 3 Nov 2027
Returns
Wed 17 Nov 2027
Embarks
Amsterdam
Disembarks
Budapest
Ship
APT Solara or APT Ostara
Operator
APT
This is our most popular river cruise, and for good reason. Explore Europe's waterways aboard a luxury river ship, enjoying all-inclusive cruising, personalised service and world-class dining experiences along the way. From the beautiful cities of Amsterdam, Vienna and Budapest to quaint riverside towns, you’ll discover the icons and hidden gems of this spectacular region.
Day by day
Itinerary
1
Arrive Amsterdam, Embark Ship
Welcome to Amsterdam. Meet on arrival and transfer to your ship. Settle into your suite and attend a welcome reception with fresh locally sourced oysters and regional sparkling wine. After your first dinner on board, explore the city at your own pace.
APT Solara or APT OstaraD
2
Amsterdam
Spend the day in the Dutch capital on your preferred activity: • 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. • Culinary Discovery: Discover the culinary favourites of the Netherlands. See and taste a variety of Dutch delicacies as you visit local producers. • Guided Bike Ride: Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum. • Keukenhof Gardens in Spring: On select spring departures, 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. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
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 for an exclusive 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
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. Choose your activity: • 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. • 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. • 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
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. Choose your sightseeing activity: • 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. • 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
6
Würzburg
Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities: • 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. • 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. • 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. • 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
8
Nuremberg
This morning gives you the chance to choose your sightseeing activity: • 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. • 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. 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
9
Regensburg
Discover Regensburg on your chosen sightseeing activity: • 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. • 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
10
Passau, Salzburg, Linz
Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
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. Choose your activity: • 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. • 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
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: • 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
13
Vienna
Head out on your choice of tours, then set sail for Hungary: • Schönbrunn Palace Visit: Delve into royal history as you wander the lavishly furnished rooms and beautiful gardens of the famous Schönbrunn Palace. • 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. • 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
14
Budapest
Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today: • City Tour: Set out on a city tour of Budapest and take in its historic monuments, including Heroes' Square and St. Stephen's Basilica. • 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. • 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. 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.
APT Solara or APT OstaraBLD
15
Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest
Your extraordinary European adventure concludes today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.
B
What you get for the price
Inclusions & exclusions
What’s included
Fly Free Including Taxes*
14 nights on a new-generation luxury river ship, the APT Solara or APT Ostara
A total of 41 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages
All-inclusive sightseeing experiences
Transfers, port charges, and gratuities
Experiences in 14 destinations
In-suite dining and beverage service in all suites
The services of an expert Cruise Director
Exclusive – Visit Vienna’s City Palace for a cocktail party and private classical concert
Not included
Travel insurance
Where you’ll stay
Accommodation
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.
APT Solara
From the operator
Common questions about this voyage
What are the touring advantages with APT?
The APT Solara and APT Ostara are equipped with a fleet of e-bikes that are free to borrow on request. Guided bicycle tours operate between mid-April and October. We provide helmets for your safety.
What type of climate should I expect?
The climate of most of Central and Eastern Europe, including southern Scandinavia, is categorised as humid continental. As in Western Europe, summers are mild, but winters are significantly colder, with snowfall a common occurrence in certain locations. Greenland and the Arctic are situated in the polar climate zone, resulting in chilly weather all year-round.
What Visas are required in Europe?
All passengers must have a valid passport that is valid for at least six months after the holiday package return date. Passengers must consult with the appropriate consulates to ensure that they have any applicable visas for countries included in the holiday package prior to departure. Passengers are solely responsible for meeting necessary passport and visa entry requirements and paying all associated costs. APT is not responsible for delays or missed portions of the holiday package resulting from incorrect travel documents or visas.
What language is used on my tour?
The official language used by APT staff worldwide is English. All staff, crew and local guides speak English throughout Europe. For your convenience, all guided tours, announcements and lectures will be presented in English.
Do I get audio guides on my tour?
Each guest will have an audio headset on tour. During excursions, these lightweight headsets allow you to hear every word of your local guide’s commentary. On board your river ship, this device also delivers commentary on the places you’re cruising past.
What are the new APT ships called?
APT is proud to announce a new generation of luxury ships. The APT Solara and Ostara will be in action from 2025
What Currency is used onboard the ships?
In Europe, the currency on board all of our river ships and the MV Lady Eleganza in Croatia is the Euro. The currency on board the Seabourn vessels is USD. For your convenience, any purchases and paid services on board our ships are billed to your shipboard account. At the end of the cruise, you will receive a total that can be paid with cash or credit card.
What are the bedding configurations?
All suites on all river ships and hotel accommodation can be configured as either double or twin share. Some suites on the MV Lady Eleganza, APT Solara and APT Ostara cannot be configured as twin share. Your preference will be noted at the time of booking.
What type of electrical outlets and voltage are used?
220V and European-style 2-prong socket outlets are in your accommodation. We recommend that guests pack adapters. Please note that voltage may vary depending on the destination.
Can I do my own shore excursions?
Participation in shore excursions is at your discretion. If you would like to explore independently, your Cruise Director can make suggestions as to places to visit. You must make sure to return to the ship before it departs.
Is travel insurance included?
Travel insurance is not included in your tour, but speak to our Travel Experts for information or a quote.
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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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