From Amsterdam to Budapest, and many exciting stops along the way, you’ll be immersed in the culture of Central Europe in a unique way on this timeless river cruise holiday.

Amsterdam is Holland’s lively capital—both historical and modern. This popular city is set amongst sophisticated architecture and classic squares and canals.

See the treasures of this 700-year-old city from a unique perspective—on a canal cruise along the elegant grachten. On to Germany where there’s a guided city walk in Cologne—a 2,000-year-old city known for its gothic architecture. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River, and stop in the charming wine town of Rüdesheim. There’s guided sightseeing in Würzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg, and Regensburg, and you’ll sail the Main Danube Canal connecting the Main and Danube Rivers.

First stop in Austria is Melk for a visit of its magnificent Benedictine Abbey, then sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Dürnstein—famous for its blue and white baroque Stiftskirche. And in the last days of your vacation, local experts will introduce you to three capital cities: Vienna, Austria, also known as “The City of Music” for inspiring the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss; Bratislava, Slovakia, where winding cobblestone streets twist and turn in the Old Town and you’ll visit St. Martin’s Cathedral; and lively Budapest, Hungary, with its unique energy and countless must-see sites. This truly is a river cruise to remember!

 

1

Day 1

ARRIVE IN AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND (EMBARKATION). Welcome to Amsterdam! Holland’s sophisticated, modern capital has a rich 700-year-old history and a distinct ambiance. Maybe stroll through the lively marketplace or see the works of famous Dutch masters at world-renowned museums. This afternoon, board your river cruise ship and meet your crew at an evening welcome reception. (NOTE: Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.) (D)
2

Day 2

AMSTERDAM. Today, get a unique perspective of Amsterdam on an included CANAL CRUISE, floating along the elegant grachten lined with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.” There’s free time in the city this afternoon-or you might like to join an optional excursion before bidding tot ziens (farewell) to Holland and setting sail for Germany. (B,L,D)
3

Day 3

COLOGNE, GERMANY. Today, enjoy a peaceful morning of cruising before reaching Cologne after lunch. One of Germany’s largest cities and capital of the Rhineland, Cologne straddles both sides of the Rhine and is known for its soaring, twin-steepled gothic cathedral. Choose between a GUIDED CITY WALK or JEWISH HERITAGE WALK. The Old Town abounds with cafes, shops, and taverns. Be sure to try a Kolsch pale