European Gems River Cruise from Amsterdam Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrive Amsterdam, Embark Ship
Fly from Ireland and arrive in Amsterdam, where you’ll be transferred to your river ship. Perhaps grab a map to explore this carefree, cosmopolitan city and its magnificent network of canals. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and fellow passengers at a Captain’s Welcome Reception.
Day 2 – Amsterdam, Utrecht
Board a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam’s maze of waterways with a local guide, before enjoying some time at leisure. Afterwards, drive to Utrecht to rejoin your vessel for tonight’s special Gala Welcome Dinner.
Day 3 – Cologne, Brühl
Learn how the twin spires of Cologne’s famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the centre of Cologne at your leisure.
Day 4 – Rhine Gorge, Rüdesheim
Experience a true holiday highlight as you cruise through the Rhine Gorge, known to be the most beautiful section of the Rhine River. Your ship docks in Rüdesheim, where the Winzerexpress mini road train will take you through the town to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Here, discover one of the most beautiful collections of automated musical instruments in all of Germany.
Day 5 – Miltenberg
Discover Miltenberg today, exploring this well-preserved town’s half-timbered buildings dating from the 15th to 18th centuries.
Insider Experience – Miltenberg Culinary Tour: Gain a glimpse into local life in Miltenberg as you embark on a culinary walking tour. Sample regional specialties at a local butcher and baker before finishing with a tasting at a local distillery.
Day 6 – Würzburg
Board a coach and travel through the rolling hills to Würzburg. Visit the magnificent Würzburg Residence, a baroque palace renowned for its opulent interior, and stroll through the beautiful Court Garden. Later, you may choose to enjoy an optional visit to Rothenburg, a medieval fairytale town.
Day 7 – Bamberg
Spend a leisurely morning cruising along the last stretch of the Main River before arriving at Bamberg. Enjoy a guided tour, during which you’ll gaze upon such sights as the Old Town Hall and the Bamberg Cathedral, followed by some free time to explore. Later this evening, your ship will reach the Main-Danube Canal.
Day 8 – Nuremberg
Explore Nuremberg, once the site of Hitler’s infamous rallies. Wander its cobblestone streets, discovering hidden boutiques and artisan stores. Finish your day cruising through the Main-Danube Canal, crossing Europe’s Continental Divide via its 16 stair-step locks.
Day 9 – Regensburg
Having reached the Danube River overnight, Regensburg awaits. Spend the day in this charming city, docked in the heart of town, and join a guided walking tour to explore its major sights. Later, perhaps take an optional tour to Kuchlbauer’s World of Beer in Abensberg. Enjoy a guided tour of the family-owned brewery and see The Kuchlbauer Tower, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.
Day 10 – Passau, Linz
As you enjoy your breakfast, arrive in the ‘Three Rivers City’ of Passau, where the Ilz and Inn rivers join the Danube. Perhaps join an optional tour to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or travel to Salzburg. Alternatively, stay on board and enjoy a relaxing sailing day to Linz.
Day 11 – Melk, Dürnstein
After cruising into Austria, dock in Melk for a tour of Melk Abbey with a local guide. Since 1089, this Benedictine monastery has stood atop a rocky outcrop, offering commanding views of the Danube. Later, cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, a town overlooked by the hilltop ruins of the castle where legendary King Richard the Lionheart was kept as a prisoner in the 12th century. You have the afternoon free to explore the cobbled streets, town houses and taverns of the town. Perhaps join an optional tour to taste some of the region’s wine.
Day 12 – Vienna
In Vienna, join a walking tour of St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina. Afterwards, you may enjoy visiting the Naschmarkt. This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional concert featuring music from Mozart to The Sound of Music.
Day 13 – Vienna
Today is yours to explore Vienna. Perhaps visit the Hofburg area and the Imperial Treasury. Otherwise, enjoy an optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, or head to Bratislava. Later, set sail for Hungary. Tonight, celebrate your river cruise with a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.
Day 14 – Budapest
Today, enjoy views of one of the Danube’s most enchanting riverside cities as your ship drifts right into the heart of Hungary’s capital. After breakfast, a local guide will lead you through Budapest. Later, you may wish to join an optional tour to discover the Hospital in the Rock Bunker Museum.
Day 15 – Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest
After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your return flight to Ireland.
