Best of the Danube (Christmas Cruise) 2025
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable multi-day tour along the majestic Danube River, exploring some of Europe’s most enchanting cities and historical sites. From the vibrant streets of Budapest to the regal charm of Vienna, this luxurious river cruise offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty. Enjoy guided tours, local culinary delights, and breathtaking landscapes as you journey through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and the Czech Republic. With comfortable accommodations on board and a variety of excursions to choose from, this tour promises an enriching and memorable experience.
Included
7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
AmaViola: Suite
All onboard dining in a variety of venues
Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner
La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
AmaWaterways river cruise ship
Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
Knowledgeable guides
Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
Daily entertainment including cultural performances
Immersive tours in every destination
Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
Bike tours and hikes
Special Interest Tours
Personal headset for easy exploration
Destinations
Bratislava
Budapest
Melk
ViennaMap
Attractions
Matthias Church
Imperial Treasury Vienna
Heroes' Square
Hundertwasserhaus
Gellért Hill
Stift Dürnstein
Klosterneuburg Monastery
Fisherman's Bastion
Esztergom Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum
Melk Abbey
Schönbrunn Palace
Bratislava Castle
St. Stephen's CathedralDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Budapest
- Budapest - Arrival day
- More
Arrive in the enchanting city of Budapest and board your luxurious river cruise ship. Take some time to explore the city independently before the evening’s briefings, cocktail hour, and dinner. (D)
Day 2 – Day 2: Bratislava
- Bratislava
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- Bratislava Castle
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Spend the morning cruising from Austria to Slovakia. Discover Bratislava, known as the 'Coronation City of Kings,' during a walking tour. Alternatively, join a 'Tastes of Slovakia' tour to sample local flavors or hike up to Bratislava Castle for stunning city views. For a more active adventure, take a guided cycling tour. (B,L,D)
Day 3 – Day 3: Melk
- Vienna
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- Melk Abbey
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Revel in the picturesque landscapes of Austria’s Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in Melk and visit Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s largest Baroque monasteries. Explore its museum, library, and frescoes. (B,L,D)
Day 4 – Day 4: Linz, Salzburg, and Český Krumlov
- Melk
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- Mozarthaus
- Mirabell Palace
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Explore Linz with its blend of contemporary and historical architecture. Visit the old city center and Mozart House. Alternatively, take a bike tour or join an excursion to Salzburg, visiting Mirabell Gardens and other landmarks. Another option is a full-day trip to Český Krumlov, known for its Baroque and Renaissance buildings and Krumlov Castle. (B,L,D)
Day 5 – Day 5: Vienna
- Vienna
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- Hundertwasserhaus
- Donauturm
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Enjoy a morning of scenic cruising. In the afternoon, take a horse-drawn carriage ride through Vienna’s historic city center or opt for a guided bike ride along the Danube Canal and Ringstrasse Boulevard. (B,L,D)
Day 6 – Day 6: Vienna and Cobenzl
- Bratislava
- Melk
- More
- Schönbrunn Palace Park
- Vienna Music Society
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Visit the UNESCO-designated Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens, the former summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. Alternatively, hike through the Vienna Woods in Cobenzl. Spend the rest of the day exploring Vienna at your leisure. (B,L,D)
Day 7 – Day 7: Budapest
- Budapest
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- Shoes on the Danube Bank
- Heroes' Square
- Csabdi church
- Fisherman's Bastion
- Hungarian Parliament Building
- Esztergom Castle Museum of the Hungarian National Museum
- More
Explore Budapest’s Castle District, including Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church. In the afternoon, visit the Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square, and the 'Shoes on the Danube Bank' memorial. Enjoy the illuminated cityscape in the evening. (B,L,D)
Day 8 – Day 8: Budapest
- Budapest - Departure day
- More
Bid farewell to Budapest and prepare for your flight home. (B)
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