Magnificent Europe

ARRIVE IN AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS – EMBARKATION. Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Magnificent Europe cruise. (D)

AMSTERDAM. There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)

COLOGNE, GERMANY. Cologne is home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the Old Town and to the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall, the Old Market and the Heumarkt. Plus, taste the city’s famous Kölsch beer, only made in Cologne. As an alternative, explore the historic and modern architectural styles on display across Cologne on a guided tour, including a special visit inside the Cologne Cathedral, a 13th-century Gothic marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This cathedral was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion, and it withstood 14 hits from aerial bombs during World War II. Active adventurists will instead want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine. (B,L,D)

RHINE GORGE – RÜDESHEIM. Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river, before reaching Rüdesheim. There you may drink up the stunning views of the vineyards during a gondola ride. Alternatively, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet charm you, or savor the Rüdesheimer Coffee that the town is famous for. (B,L,D)

WERTHEIM. Enjoy your time in Wertheim, considered to have one of Germany’s most beautiful city centers. While here, join a walking tour, hike to the ruins of Wertheim Castle, delight in a scenic bicycle ride along the Main River Valley or go to a pretzel bakery for a delicious tasting. (B,L,D)

WÜRZBURG. Enjoy a city tour of Würzburg, bursting with Baroque splendor. Or visit Würzburg’s Baroque Residenz Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features an opulent interior, including a grand fresco by Tiepolo. Or stretch your legs while hiking to Würzburg Castle. Alternately, go on a full-day excursion to Rothenburg, Germany’s best-preserved walled town located on the Romantic Road. (B,L,D)

*Not combinable with other tours on this day.

ELTMANN – BAMBERG. Explore enchanting Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, in one of three ways. Join a guided walking tour of this medieval gem to see its cathedral, Old Town Hall and elegant old mansions. Or taste your way through the city sampling smoked beer, pralines, and Hornla, a pastry. And for a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)

NUREMBERG. Depart the ship for a guided tour of Kaiserburg, Nuremberg’s Imperial castle and one of the most important palaces of the Old Holy Roman Empire. While wandering through this historical fortress towering high above the city center, you will pass by an exhibition of military artifacts, from weapons to suits of armor, as well as architectural models that show the castle through the ages. Following your Kaiseburg tour, we will head to the former home of Albrecht Dürer, arguably Germany’s most famous artist and Nuremberg’s most famous resident. It is within these walls where he lived and worked for nearly 20 years in the early 16th century, and you will be able to view some of his and other artists’ works during your tour. (B,L,D)

NUREMBERG. You have three choices of excursions while in Nuremberg. Enjoy a guided tourthrough this well-preserved medieval city, showcasing the Imperial Castle, famous town wall and the legendaryfountain of the Market Square. Or turn back the pages of a darker history with a guided tour of the city’s mostimportant WWII sites, including the coliseum. You’ll also visit the Nuremberg Trials Memoriam and Courtroom600, if the courtroom is not in session. Alternatively, partake in a traditional Franconian specialties tasting offamous Nuremburger bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread). Later in the day, cruise throughthe man-made marvel, the Main-Danube Canal. (B,L,D)

REGENSBURG. Explore one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, Regensburg, on a guidedwalking tour showcasing the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavaria’s specialties—beer, sausage and pretzels. And for a more activeadventure, bike to Walhalla where you will see the neoclassical white marble temple. (B,L,D)

PASSAU. For those who love The Sound of Music, enjoy a full-day excursion to Salzburg and tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael, where the famous wedding scene in the movie was filmed. Alternatively, you can discover Passau in one of three ways. Enjoy a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Guests looking for a more active morning can choose between a guided bike tour to Wertheim, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress. (B,L,D)

MELK, AUSTRIA. Cruise to Melk where you can visit its magnificent Benedictine Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s largest and most revered Baroque monasteries. For a more active adventure, you can also join a guided bike tour along the Danube River or hike up to the Abbey. (B,L,D)

VIENNA. The heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Vienna, remains as renowned today as it hasthroughout history. The entire city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site awash with Baroque treasures. Yourcity tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace ofthe Habsburgs. Conclude in Vienna’s historic city center and then visit the majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, whichhas stood watch over Vienna for 700 years and is one of the most important and beloved landmarks in Austria.Or, if you prefer to go on a more active adventure, then join a guided bike tour through Vienna. Duringthe afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more. (B,L,D)

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Today you have the opportunity to visit the Buda (hilly) side of the Danube River. Following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. (B,L,D)

DISEMBARKATION – DEPART BUDAPEST. Bid adieu to Budapest and prepare for your flight home. (B)

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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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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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The Library can be found on the Violin Deck.

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Whether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.

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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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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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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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Stateroom Features Include:

• 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 Include:

• 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 Include:

• 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 Include:

• 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 Include:

• 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 Include:

• 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 Include:

• 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 Include:

• 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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Suite Features Include:

• 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