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Visit charming Passau

The Romantic Danube

Example 8 Day Cruise aboard MS Amabella
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Framed by rolling hillsides, lush vineyards, and medieval castles, the Danube River has captivated musicians, artists and poets throughout the centuries. Travel to legendary destinations on this European river cruise when embarking on a 7 night cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest. Explore a 2,000 year-old city, visit Europe's largest pipe organ, savor Wachau Valley wines, and experience the timeless beauty and fascinating history of Vienna and Budapest.
Enjoy this beautiful basilica while traveling through EuropeVisit unique European townsParliament Building, BudapestSaint Stephens Cathedral in ViennaVisit charming Passau
Activities
  • River Cruises
Activity Level: Relaxed
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Embark / Vilshofen, Germany

This evening meet your fellow passengers on board for the Welcome Reception and Dinner.

Day 2: Passau

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning you are free to explore Vilshofen's beautiful old town before you cruise to Passau, where this afternoon you will have your choice of two different excursions. The first option is to take a walking tour through this 2,000-year-old fairy tale city, noted for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture. Walk the cobblestone streets of the Old Town where you will see the city fortifications and St. Stephan's Cathedral, which is home to the largest cathedral organ in the world. As an alternative, experience this majestic city on a guided bike tour along the Inn River to Weinstein (capacity controlled).

Day 3: Linz / Gmunden

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning the ship arrives in Linz, the second largest city in Austria. Your walking tour guides you along the Landstrasse, to the city’s Main Square where you will see St. Mary's Cathedral, the Marian Column, the Landes Theatre and St. Martin's Church, the oldest church in Austria. Return to the ship for brunch. This afternoon you have the choice of three different excursions. The first option is a visit to the scenic 'Salzkammergut' region, the Austrian Lake District, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the historic town of Gmunden, on the shore of Lake Traunsee. The second option is to join an excursion to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov. This is a wonderfully preserved medieval town, nestled in the hills just over the Austrian-Czech border. The third choice is an excursion to Salzburg, where you will take a walking tour of the historic center, famous as the setting for the 'Sound of Music' and as the birthplace of Mozart. Enjoy free time on your own, before returning to the ship.

Day 4: Melk / Dürnstein

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Cruise through the narrow Strudengau this morning to Melk. A guided tour will take you to Melk's magnificent Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe's largest Baroque monasteries. From here, continue cruising the beautiful Wachau valley to Krems. You will have the choice of two excursions this afternoon. The first is a motor coach ride to Durnstein, where you will take a walking tour of the town's medieval cobblestone streets, passing by 16th-century town houses and wine taverns. Marvel at the magnificent blue facade of the Baroque Stiftskirche high above town. As an alternative, enjoy a guided bike tour from Krems to Durnstein and back (capacity controlled). Tonight, after dinner on board, enjoy wine tasting at a local winery. Enjoy several different wines, presented along with bread, knowledgeable hosts, and plenty of laughter.

Day 5: Vienna

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
Cruise through the narrow Strudengau this morning to Melk. A guided tour will take you to Melk's magnificent Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe's largest Baroque monasteries. From here, continue cruising the beautiful Wachau valley to Krems. You will have the choice of two excursions this afternoon. The first is a motor coach ride to Dürnstein, where you will take a walking tour of the town's medieval cobblestone streets, passing by 16th-century town houses and wine taverns. During your morning city tour of Vienna, you will see the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, and the historic St. Stephen's Cathedral. The afternoon is free to stroll through the historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or take an optional tour to the Schonbrunn Palace. Tonight, you will have the opportunity to enjoy an optional Mozart and Strauss concert in the 'Music Capital of the World.' The ship moors in Vienna overnight.

Day 6: Bratislava, Slovakia

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning, enjoy a scenic cruise to Bratislava, where you can choose from a walking tour which includes the Old Town Hall, Mirbach Palace and Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral. Alternatively, you can take a 'Communist History Tour' of Bratislava, which includes architectural landmarks such as the Radio Building, Liberty Square and Soviet War Memorial. The remainder of the day is free to explore on your own.

Day 7: Budapest, Hungary

  • Ship
  • 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner
This morning, your sightseeing tour takes you to historic Buda Castle from where you can enjoy a splendid view of the twin cities of Buda and Pest spread over both banks of the River. Your tour also features the distinctive Fisherman's Bastion, the Royal Palace, St. Stephen's Basilica, the famous Heroes' Square and much more. After dinner, the ship will sail a special 'Illuminations Cruise' past the illuminated river front of Budapest.

Day 8: Budapest

  • 1 Breakfast
Your cruise comes to an end as you transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Ship/Hotel

MS Amabella

Bicycles outside the Amabella.
Stay in a luxurious suite while touring Eastern Europe aboard the AmaBella.

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Per person starting at
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Category E
Piano Deck, Fixed window, private facilities, 170 sq. ft.
Cabins Category D and E
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Category D
Piano Deck, Fixed window, private facilities, 170 sq. ft.
Cabin Category C
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Category C
Cello Deck, French Balcony, private facilities, 170 sq. ft.
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Category BB
Cello Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony, private facilities, 210 sq. ft.
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Category BA
Violin Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony, private facilities, 210 sq. ft.
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Category AB
Cello Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony, private facilities, 235 sq. ft.
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Category AA
Violin Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony, private facilities, 235 sq. ft.
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Suite
Violin Deck, French Balcony & Outside Balcony, private facilities, 350 sq. ft.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Beverages: Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
  • Beverages: Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
  • Personal headset for excursions. 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Laundry 
  • Port Fees

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Everything was amazing! The planning with Adventure Life went smoothly. The actual trip was fantastic! One of the best trips I have experienced. The cruise staff members were knowledgeable and attentive. I will be writing more about this on the blog!
Justin Chappelle
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