Europe’s Rivers & Castles (Wine Cruise)

Nuremberg is a medieval city located in northern Bavaria in Germany. It is Bavaria's second largest city and is noted for its iconic red roofed buildings and medieval architecture. The imperial Castle overlooks Nuremberg and was one of the most important fortifications of the Roman Empire. For more significant cultural history, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of the largest cultural history museums in the German speaking world, offers visitors exhibitions from Prehistoric all the way to present day. Walking tours around the city offer an enjoyable and active way to learn of Nuremberg’s history and culture. Through Old Town, discover fountains, wells, churches, and art treasures, as well as learning of the colourful past and cosmopolitan present of the city and its people. Nuremberg is also home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, where visitors can purchase traditional handmade decorations and enjoy the famous gingerbread, mulled wine, and grilled sausage from over one hundred and eighty wooden stalls.

Bamberg is a German town located over a landscape of seven hills and the confluence of Regnitz and Main rivers. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage Centre with Old Town home to structures dating back to the 11th century. An iconic landmark to visit in Bamberg is the town hall Altes Rathaus, located on an island in the Regnitz and covered in murals. Bamberg Cathedral, with its four towers and numerous stone carvings, is a striking example of Romanesque architecture. Head to the Market Gardeners District and visit the historical houses where centuries ago the town gardeners would grow and export produce such as onions, seeds and liquorice. In the town centre and heart of Little Venice, the rivers and arched bridges connecting the island city are reminiscent of Venice, with a lively atmosphere and modern shops set in historical surroundings. After a day shopping, head to one of the many Brewery pubs for some popular German beer. Bamberg is famous for its beer and is where its name originated from, with the town being populated by nine traditional breweries.

Würzburg is a city in Bavaria in southern Germany. It is located on the River Main and is famous for its lavish baroque architecture and Franconian wine. The Residence Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is highly recommended. It is a well known example of Baroque architecture with its acclaimed staircase, impressive frescos and imperial hall. Other impressive sites in Würzburg include the towering fortress of Festung Marienberg, the Alt Mainbrücke old bridge, which offers ideal views of the Marienberg, Dom St. Kilian cathedral and the many churches of Würzburg including the Romanesque Neumünster. Many of these sites have their own museums for visitors to learn of the history or view unique collections. Other museums of interest are the Mineralogical Museum, exhibiting the world of minerals and stones, and the Botanical Gardens, with various greenhouses and outdoor areas to enjoy. Wine lovers will find an abundance of wineries in Würzburg, offering cellar tours and wine tasting as well as traditional Bavarian cuisines and hospitality. Enjoy wine soup, Gerupfter (cheese spread) and Sauerbraten (braised beef in wine) in a friendly traditional wine tavern.

Located at the confluence of the Tauber and Main rivers, Wertheim is a German town best known for picturesque medieval architecture, including the impressive Wertheim Castle overlooking the quaint Old Town. The cobblestone streets are testament to the town's rich history, and the timber-framed houses paint a vivid picture of Germany's past.

Rudesheim am Rhine is a town in the Rhine Valley in Germany and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rhine Gorge. It is known for its production of Riesling wine and has been popular for its wine making since ancient times. The Medieval Bromserburg Castle is home to the Rheingau Wine Museum and wine is a crucial part of Rudesheimer culture. The town is surrounded with vineyards and wineries, as well as many local wine bars and seasonal wine taverns. Wine tasting is a must do in Rudesheim and dining out is a great accompaniment. The local cuisine is seasonal and is closely intertwined with the wine growing traditions together with soups such as Zwiebelkuchen, Handkäs mit Musik and Spundekäs. Nordic Walking is popular around town, with five adventure trails around the vicinity, as well as many popular cycling routes. Great views of the town can be found from the water, the cable car to Niederwald Monument and the Monument itself. Old Town has the best examples of the town’s architecture with Eagle Tower, Oberstrasse and Rheinstein Castle some key sites to visit.

Lahnstein sits at the confluence of the Lahn and Rhine rivers, and is decorated with stunning medieval architecture such as the famed Lahneck Castle. The picturesque German town is bursting with character and rich history, located along the Rhine Gorge and offering a serene experience for visitors exploring Germany.

A town characterised by enchanting medieval charm, Cochem sits along the stunning Moselle River in Germany, overlooked by the fascinating hilltop Reichsburg Castle. Cochem's skyline looks as though it were lifted directly from a postcard, decorated with half-timbered houses, charming streets and the Moselle river meandering alongside. A reputable hub for impeccable Riesling wines, Cochem is also famed for its local vineyards, offering visitors a taste of traditional German wine production. 

One of the oldest cities in Germany, Trier's rich history dates back over 2,000 years as the former capital of the Western Roman Empire. The city is home to an impressive array of well-preserved Roman ruins, including the iconic Porta Nigra, a massive city gate. What's more, Trier boasts several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Roman amphitheater and the Imperial Baths. Besides its captivating past, Trier also offers a unique blend of contemporary and traditional elements, with an enchanting old town, lively market squares and a vivid cultural scene.

Luxembourg is a founding member of the European Union, and has a significant role in European politics and finance, hosting numerous EU institutions and multinational corporations. Despite its small size, Luxembourg boasts an impressive cosmopolitan atmosphere, rich cultural history, economic prosperity and historic charm, attracting residents and tourists alike.

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AmaWaterways’ expert chefs craft menus that feature exquisite, locally-inspired cuisine as well as traditional, Western offerings. At breakfast, sip sparkling wine as you partake fresh pastries, or opt for something made-to-order from the menu. Stop by the Main Lounge for a light lunch, or head to the restaurant for full menu service and high-quality regional wine or beer. Dinner is a delectable, multi-course affair with wine recommendations that accompany visually stunning, delicious dishes. Try local favourites — like goulash while cruising through Hungary, bratwurst and sauerkraut after returning to the ship from Vienna, or Camembert cheese while on the Seine — or something more familiar, like a sandwich. No matter what your preference, your taste buds are sure to be impressed.

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Join a few of your fellow travellers at The Chef’s Table, where the kitchen — usually hidden — becomes part of the entertainment. You’ll have the opportunity to watch the chef prepare a special multi-course meal right in front of you. The menu here is unique, making this a truly distinct gastronomic experience. Indulge in delectable dishes served with unlimited fine wines, hand-selected just for this dinner. It is the only venue of its kind on the river.

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With AmaWaterways, you have the option of exploring Europe’s amazing sights like the locals do. We were the first river cruise line to carry an entire fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, so you can experience biking alongside enchanting riverside pathways and in city centres. Whether you feel like joining one of our exclusive guided bike tours, or want to go discover on your own, there are many ways for you to explore on two wheels during your cruise. Here are a few examples:

• Bike along the beautiful Danube River between Dürnstein and Melk in Austria’s Wachau Valley
• Tour Cologne’s Old Town and Cathedral along the Rhine River
• See the medieval city of Rouen in France’s historic Normandy region, near the Seine River
• Take in wooded hills and beaches of poplars along the scenic shores of the Inn River in Passau
• Go on a guided bike ride in Vienna, where you’ll visit Klosterneuberg Abbey and enjoy cake and coffee

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The beauty of Europe doesn’t just lie in its architecture and landmarks – there are also breath taking things to be seen when you venture out into nature. That’s why we’ve designed special hikes that will take you a bit off the beaten path in some very beautiful destinations.

• Trek up to the Veste Oberhaus in Passau, Germany for incredible views over Old Passau
• Make your way up to Dürnstein Fortress, where it is said that Richard the Lionheart was once held captive
• Hike up the Philosopher’s Path to a panoramic view of Heidelberg and the Necker River
• Journey from the ship to the Old Town in Strasbourg, France

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We realise that our guests have different tastes, so we’ve developed a menu of shore excursions in every port of call. In many destinations, you’ll be free to choose from one of several options — all of which are included in your cruise fare. There’s always a city tour designed to show you all the renowned highlights and landmarks in grand capitals and charming villages alike. Is it your first time in Vienna? Opt for an unforgettable exploration of the major sights led by a local, English-speaking guide that is well versed in history and culture. Have you already been to Nuremberg? Instead of taking the city tour, indulge in a bratwurst and beer tasting on one of our Special Interest Tours, which are specially designed to place you in the midst of local life. Are you looking for something more active? See the beautiful scenery of Austria’s Wachau Valley with a guided bike tour along the Danube. The choice is yours.

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Every year, we seek out new opportunities for our guests to experience local culture in a unique way. These tours are specially designed to give small groups the chance to be even more immersed in a destination. Here are just a few examples:

• Indulge in authentic Belgian waffles and chocolate in Antwerp
• Try your hand at knotting a bretzel (German for “pretzel”) in Wertheim
• Go to a bratwurst and beer tasting at the oldest brewery in Nuremberg
• Discover hidden treasures on a tour of Vienna’s secret spots and sights
• Sample Bavarian specialties like pralines in Regensburg

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Make the most of your long-awaited vacation by adding our optional land packages before or after your sailing for an all-encompassing river cruise and land journey. Indulge your wanderlust and we’ll whisk you away between your ship and hotel, plus take you on specially curated guided tours with just the right amount of leisure time to explore the art, history or culinary delights in sought-after cities around the world.

Why Add a Land Package?

There are many benefits to adding a land package before or after your sailing. One of the simplest reasons is the convenience of making all your future travel plans in one step. Our concierge services allow you to reserve your river cruise, flights, airport transfers and land packages all at once. No need to call and research multiple providers – just contact your travel advisor and we’ll take care of it all. But the value of adding a land package doesn’t stop there.

World-Class Hotels

Whether you wish to rest and recover from flights or pamper yourself before returning home, you’ll find no better respite than the trusted, 4- and 5-star hotels we have carefully selected for you. Each luxurious property is centrally located near the major sights, such as Turkey’s Istanbul at Sultanahmet, just steps from the magnificent Blue Mosque. If you should wish to extend your vacation even further, your travel advisor can conveniently arrange extra hotel nights through AmaWaterways as well.

Our land packages include transfers between your hotel and river cruise ship, portage service and daily breakfast at the hotel. In addition, fascinating guided city tours and excursions are included, so you can:

• Discover breathtaking Mont St. Michel, France, the artistic inspiration for the movie Tangled
• Join a tasting of Czech beer while learning about the beverage’s long and illustrious history
• Visit Transylvania’s infamous Bran Castle, otherwise known as Dracula’s Castle
• Board a boat for a scenic ride along Italy’s Lake Como to the stunning lakeside village of Bellagio
• Rise with the sun at Cambodia’s UNESCO-designated Angkor Archaeological Complex

What's Included in Your Land Package

• Overnight stays at 4- and 5-star hotels conveniently located near the major sites
• Daily breakfast at the hotel
• Guided city tours
• Convenient transfers to and from the ship
• The services of a professionally trained Cruise Manager throughout your river cruise and land stay – unique in the industry

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On an AmaWaterways river cruise, you don’t just pass through a destination — you experience it. Each one of our itineraries is crafted with a paramount goal in mind: connecting you to the essence of life in each place you visit. We always make it a point to place our guests in small groups. This helps facilitate access to sights and landmarks, a more intimate setting, and more encounters with the locals. It’s a great way to take your time as you explore, get to know your fellow travellers better and find opportunities for up-close experiences. Every tour is led by a local, English-speaking guide who is very knowledgeable in the culture and history of the place you are visiting.

Choose your pace: In many cases, you’ll have a choice of gentle, regular and active tour paces. There are even some options for late risers.

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With fewer passengers on board, guests can enjoy the luxury of space — our public areas, like lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.

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Whether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or contemporary piano favourites, you will enjoy an eclectic schedule of onboard entertainment every night.

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The Reception is located on the Violin Deck.

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Guests can enjoy a drink as they relax on the Sun Deck.

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Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.

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Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.

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Lighter options are always available during meals as well as gluten free, vegetarian and low-sodium options. Discover the infused detox and gemstone water at our Hydration Station.

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After a marvellous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.

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Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

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Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

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Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

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Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

-

Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

-

Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

-

Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

-

Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair

-

Stateroom Features

• In-room temperature control
• Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
• Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
• Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
• Flat-screen TV
• Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
• Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
• Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
• Desk and chair