2025 : Melodies of the Danube (Taste of Christmas) : 7-night Cruise : Budapest to Vilshofen : ms AmaSonata
Overview
Cruise From: Budapest to Vilshofen
Celebrate the holidays aboard one of the most elegantly decorated ships on the Danube, witnessing firsthand how this storied river inspired artists, poets, and musicians. Experience the unique seasonal celebrations ahead of the holiday crowds in three magnificent capitals: Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna. Keep your eye out for the many Christmas Markets that delight locals and world travelers alike; set out on breathtaking city tours free from the holiday crowds; and cruise through the enchanting Strudengau Valley, letting the melodies of the Danube carry you from one gem to another on a regal journey through time.
COUNTRIES:Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia
RIVERS:Danube
Melodies of the Danube (Taste of Christmas)
At A Glance
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and special interest tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Included Features
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stationsMini-fridge, desk and sitting areaBottled water replenished dailyAN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
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.Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packagesInternet and Wi-Fi accessSun Deck pool with swim-up bar and walking trackFitness roomMain Lounge with panoramic views and barBottled water in every stateroom replenished dailyDaily entertainment including cultural performancesAWARD-WINNING DINING
All onboard dining in a variety of venuesRegionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredientsThe Chef's Table specialty restaurantWelcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaine des Rotisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala DinnerLa Chaine des Rotisseurs exclusive dining experienceUnlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinnerUnlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfastSip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinksTapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main LoungeA WORLD OF EXPLORATION
Immersive tours in every destinationGentle, regular, active and late-riser tour optionsBike tours and hikesSpecial interest toursKnowledgeable guidesPersonal headset for easy explorationAirport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterwaysDetailed Itinerary
Day 1 : EMBARKATION - BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Arrive in Budapest and board your luxurious river cruise ship. (D)
Day 2 : BUDAPEST
Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, 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. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes' Square and the moving 'shoes on the Danube Bank'memorial. (B,L,D)
Day 3 : BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title 'Coronation City of Kings'as you'll discover during your walking tour. Or join a culinary host to sample traditional Slovakian specialties, as well as learn how to prepare stuffed potato ravioli with an opportunity to taste your own creation. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)
Day 4 : VIENNA, AUSTRIA
The 'City of Waltzes'offers a wealth of gems and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in Vienna's historic city center and then visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, or discover Vienna by bike. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to further explore this iconic city. (B,L,D)
Day 5 : WEISSENKIRCHEN - GREIN
After reaching Weissenkirchen, you'll be treated to several choices of excursions. Take a walking tour of Durnstein before visiting the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. Or opt for a walking tour of Weissenkirchen followed by an abbey visit. For a more culinary-focused experience, join a walking tour in Durnstein, then enjoy a wine tasting hosted by a local vintner and sample special apricot treats from a local boutique. If you prefer a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour to Melk or hike up to the fortress where Richard the Lionheart was once held. Later in the day, sail through the Strudengau and Wachau valleys to medieval Grein for an exclusive visit to the more than 500-year-old Greinburg Castle, looming regally from above. While here, enjoy a folklore show and wine reception. (B,L,D)
Day 6 : LINZ
The ship arrives in Linz where you'll have several choices of excursions. 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. You may also choose to join a full-day excursion to the charming Czech mountain town of Cesky Krumlov, where you can stroll its cobblestone streets; marvel at the city's picturesque Baroque and Renaissance-style buildings; and tour Krumlov Castle, one of Europe's largest castle complexes. Following these full-day excursions, you may also choose to take a brief walking tour in Linz. Alternatively, join a walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or bike along the city's famed 'Cultural Mile'and the Danube. (B,L,D)
Day 7 : PASSAU, GERMANY - VILSHOFEN
Discover the 2,000-year-old city of 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 along the Danube River, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus Fortress. Later, the ship cruises to Vilshofen, where you will be treated to a festive Oktoberfest celebration with local beer, Bavarian folk music and dancing-an AmaWaterways exclusive. (B,L,D)
Day 8 : VILSHOFEN - DISEMBARKATION
This morning, disembark your ship in Vilshofen. (B)
