Wilderness Travel
    REQUEST CATALOG ENEWS CONTACT US 1-800-368-2794
  • Destinations
    • All destinations

        Our Trips

        With over 200 journeys worldwide, our award-winning trips offer an incredible range of experiences for every interest and ability. Our journeys feature amazing Trip Leaders and fascinating itineraries that give you an utterly unique experience. Wilderness Travel has been consistently voted as one of the World's Top 5 Operators by Travel & Leisure readers.
    • Africa

        Africa

        Algeria Angola Benin Botswana Cameroon Congo East Africa
        Egypt Ethiopia Gabon Ghana Kenya Kilimanjaro Madagascar
        Morocco Mozambique Namibia Serengeti Seychelles South Africa Southern Africa
        Tanzania Togo Tunisia Uganda West Africa Zambia Zimbabwe
    • Asia

        Asia

        Armenia Azerbaijan Bhutan Borneo Cambodia Central Asia China Georgia
        Himalayas India Indonesia Iran Japan Kazakhstan Kyrgyzstan Ladakh
        Laos Malaysia Mongolia Nepal Pakistan Raja Ampat Russia South Korea
        Southeast Asia Sri Lanka Tajikistan Thailand Turkey Turkmenistan Uzbekistan Vietnam
    • Europe

        Europe

        Albania Alps Armenia Austria Azores Balkans Belgium Bosnia-Herzegovina British Isles Bulgaria Corsica Croatia Czech Republic
        Denmark Dolomites England Faroe Islands Finland France Georgia Germany Great Britain Greece Greenland Hungary Iceland
        Ireland Italy Lapland Liechtenstein Madeira Montenegro Netherlands North Macedonia Norway Poland Portugal Pyrenees
        Romania Russia Sardinia Scotland Sicily Slovakia Slovenia Spain Switzerland Turkey United Kingdom Wales
    • Galapagos

        Galapagos

        Ecuador
    • Latin America

        Latin America

        Amazon Andes Argentina Baja Belize Bolivia
        Brazil Central America Chile Costa Rica Easter Island
        Ecuador Falkland Islands Galapagos Islands Guatemala Mexico
        Nicaragua Panama Pantanal Patagonia Peru
    • Middle East

        Middle East

        Egypt Iran Jordan Oman Turkey
    • North America

        North America

        Alaska Baja Canada Greenland Hawaii Mexico Montana Pacific Northwest USA Washington Wyoming Yellowstone
    • Pacific

        Pacific

        Australia Bali Borneo Fiji French Polynesia Ha'apai Islands Indonesia
        Japan Komodo Malaysia Marquesas Islands Melanesia New Zealand
        Palau Papua New Guinea Raja Ampat Society Islands Solomon Islands South Pacific
        Southeast Asia Tahiti Tasmania Tonga Tuamotu Archipelago Vanuatu
    • Polar Regions

        Polar Regions

        Antarctica Arctic Canada Falkland Islands Finland Greenland Iceland Norway Russia Spitsbergen Svalbard
  • Ways to Go

      Inspirations

      New Trips Europe 2022 Availability Special Offers Top Ten Places in 2022 Best Sellers Photo Blog Wish List Request a Catalog Sign-up for Enewsletter

      Trip Types

      Small Group Adventures Private Journeys Cruise Collection Journeys by Rail WT Expeditions Special Events Family Trips Repertory Trips

      Activities

      Culinary Cultural Adventures Eclipse Hiking / Trekking Journeying by Rail River Cruising Safaris Sea Kayaking Small Boat and Yacht Cruising Small Ship Cruising Snorkeling Walking Wildlife and Natural History
  • About WT

      About Us

      Welcome How We Travel Our Trip Leaders Making a Difference Awards WT in the News Careers Resources
  • Specials
Menu
  • Call 1-800-368-2794
  • Email Us
  • Find a Trip
  • Our Trips
  • Catalog Request
  • Enewsletter Sign-up
  • Special Offers
  • About WT
  • Resources
  • Photo Blog

Receive Our Enewsletter

Sign me up to receive your Enewsletter, announcing new adventures and special offers.

At Wilderness Travel we never rent or sell our mailing list. See our Privacy Policy for further details.

 Sign-up for Emails
 Request the Catalog
YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE AWAITS
prague square cafe romantic danube
city walls couple walking
three beers cheers
cruise ship couple
Previous Next

Special Offer!

  • $250-$750 discount per person on select departures through 2023 or special 25% Single Supplement

*Special offers cannot be combined with other discounts

Romantic Danube

From Vilshofen to Budapest aboard a Premier River Vessel

Additional dates available

Additional dates available on the reverse itinerary Melodies of the Danube

Overview

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 a 7-night cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest. Explore a 2,000-year-old city, savor Wachau Valley wines, and experience the timeless beauty and fascinating history of Vienna and Budapest. Add on a pre-cruise extension to Prague.

There is a lot to be said in favor of cruising! Less unpacking and repacking, slower pace, lovely accommodations. The boat was beautiful, with attentive staff and good food.
— Jane F., Naples, FL

Note: This cruise is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as agent in booking your reservation with the ship operator. The itinerary, lecturers, and all other arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line.

Itinerary

CRUISE PROGRAM
Vilshofen to Budapest Itinerary

Day 1
Vilshofen / Embark

Arrive in Vilshofen, transfer to the boat, and meet your fellow passengers at the Welcome Dinner.

Day 2
Vilshofen, Germany / Passau

This morning you are free to explore Vilshofen’s beautiful old town before cruising to Passau. This afternoon you will have a walking tour of this 2,000-year-old city, noted for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture, cobblestone streets, Rathaus, Domplatz and Residenzplatz squares, as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 3
Linz, Austria

The ship arrives this morning in Linz. Enjoy a walking tour of the second largest city in Austria or choose a guided bike tour that will show you around the Old City Center, along the Danube River, and past the ultra-modern Ars Electronica Center. Later, you will have a choice of three different excursions. The first option is an excursion to Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace, where you will take a walking tour of the historic center made famous by "The Sound of Music.” The second option is an excursion to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov, a wonderfully preserved medieval town nestled in the hills just over the Austrian-Czech border. The third option is a visit to the Austrian Lake District, the scenic Salzkammergut region. All three regions are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Day 4
Weissenkirchen / Dürnstein / Melk

Cruise through the narrow Strudengau this morning en route to Weissenkirchen. You have three choices of how to explore Dürnstein today. The first is a walking tour along the town’s cobblestone streets followed by a visit to the magnificent Benedictine Abbey at Melk, one of Europe’s largest and most famous monastic sites, home to religious relics and a library filled with medieval manuscripts. Alternatively, you may join a hike up to the fortress where Richard the Lionheart was once held for ransom, or enjoy an Apricots and Sweets tasting instead. Tonight, after dinner on board, enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery.

Day 5
Vienna

This morning, you will have a chance to savor the Baroque elegance of romantic Vienna through your choice of one of three different excursions. The first option is a panoramic tour of Vienna that guides you past the majestic Opera House, the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburg Emperors, Parliament, Town Hall, and Vienna University. Afterwards, you will visit Vienna’s historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and see St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Graben, and the world famous Spanish Riding School. The second option is a walking tour of Vienna’s hidden treasures that takes you to secret places and sights like Ankeruhr, a whimsical Art Nouveau clock. Your third option is a guided bike tour along the Danube and through the Donaupark. This afternoon, you can join a guided bike ride to Klosterneuburg Monastery, or explore at your leisure. Be sure to sample some Viennese coffee and pastries.

Day 6
Bratislava, Slovakia

Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Bratislava, where you will have three choices of excursions. The first is a walking tour that includes the Old Town Hall, Mirbach Palace, and St. Martin’s Cathedral. The second is a Slovakian Specialties tasting where you will enjoy a welcome glass of sparkling wine, sample a creamy soup made from sheep's cheese, and learn how to prepare stuffed potato ravioli. Finally, you can also join a hike up to Bratislava Castle, which includes visits to the Castle Upper Terrace and Court of Honor. The remainder of the day is free to explore on your own.

Day 7
Budapest, Hungary

Your morning excursion includes sightseeing in the cities of Buda and Pest spread over both banks of the river. You will see famed Heroes’ Square and Castle Hill, home to Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church and spectacular views of the Danube. Alternatively, you may also opt to join a hike up to Castle Hill on which you will see Buda Castle, Fisherman’s Bastion, and Parliament Square. After dinner, the ship will sail a special Illuminations Cruise past the glittering riverfront of Budapest.

Day 8
Disembark

Your cruise comes to an end as you prepare for your homeward flight.

ADD ON A PRE-CRUISE PRAGUE LAND PROGRAM

Additional 3 nights in Prague pre-cruise from $900 (2022 & 2023)

Day 1
Arrive in Prague, Czech Republic

Arrive in Prague and transfer on your own to the hotel. The balance of the day is free to start exploring this beautiful city.

Days 2-3
Prague

This morning, choose between a standard city tour and a hike. Both will reveal why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive cities, with a historic city center that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will see Rudolfinum, the National Museum, Wenceslas Square, and the Hundertwasser Dancing House. Next, visit the 1,000-year-old Prague Castle and St. Vitus before walking over the romantic Charles Bridge to the Old Market Square, where you will find the capital’s famous Astronomical Clock, Tyn Church, and the statue of Jan Husek. The following day is at your leisure, perhaps to stroll through a museum or gallery, wander along the banks of the Vltava River, relax at an outdoor café, or shop for local handicrafts.

Day 4
Regensburg, Bavaria / Vilshofen / Embark

Depart Prague this morning and stop in Regensburg for a guided walking tour of one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch on your own, continue on to the charming 1,200-year-old Bavarian town of Vilshofen and board your luxurious ship. Later this afternoon, join your fellow passengers at a private Oktoberfest celebration in Vilshofen, with traditional beers and Bavarian folk music and dancing. Later, enjoy a festive Welcome Dinner aboard the ship.

ADD ON A PRE-CRUISE MUNICH LAND PROGRAM

Additional 2 nights in Munich pre-cruise from $940 (2022 & 2023)

Day 1
Arrive in Munich, Germany

Arrive in Munich and check-in to your hotel. The balance of the day is free to start exploring this beautiful city.

Day 2
Munich

This morning, enjoy a panoramic tour of Munich, which includes a photo stop at BMW World, followed by a walking tour of the Old Town. On your walking tour you will see such iconic sights as the 15th-century Frauenkirche, the “Cathedral of Our Lady,” with its typical domes, Viktualienmarkt, the famous outdoor market of Munich and the Rathaus-Glockenspiel at Munich’s New Town Hall. The afternoon is free for you to explore Munich on your own. (B)

 
Day 3
Munich / Vilshofen / Embarkation

Depart Munich this morning and transfer to the charming 1,200-year-old Bavarian town of Vilshofen and board your luxurious ship. Later this afternoon, join your fellow passengers at a private Oktoberfest celebration in Vilshofen, with traditional beers and Bavarian folk music and dancing. Later, enjoy a festive Welcome Dinner aboard the ship. (B,D)

Romantic Danube route-map

Romantic Danube

Romantic Danube route-map

Highlights

Highlights

Cultural and architectural heritage of Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest
Delightful cuisine and wines
Walking tours, optional guided bike tours
Enjoy an optional pre-cruise extension to Prague, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Details

Length: 8 days
Cost From: $2899  
Full pricing
Arrive: Vilshofen, Germany
Depart: Budapest, Hungary
Lodging: 7 nights aboard a premium river vessel
View Lodging
Meals: All meals included aboard ship
Activity: Cultural Adventures, Walking, River Cruising
Trip Level:

Cultural exploration and walking tours
What the Trip is Like

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.
Examples:
  • Royal Rajasthan
  • Indochine
  • Small ship cruises

Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.
Examples:
  • New Zealand: South Island Adventure
  • Our African safaris
  • Costa Rica Wildlife

Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.
Examples:
  • Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
  • Great Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
  • Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
  • Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin, are Trip Level 3.

Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.
Examples:
  • In Patagonia
  • Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.
Examples:
  • Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
  • Everest Lodge to Lodge

Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.
Examples:
  • Everest Base Camp
  • Climb Kilimanjaro!

Recent Photo Blog Posts

The Joy of Wandering

Recent Photo Blog Posts

The Joy of Wandering

Departures and Trip Cost

Price is per person in Category E, a deluxe stateroom with a window. Cabin upgrades are available at additional cost per person (listed below this chart).

Add a Pre-Cruise Land Program for an Additional Fee

Prices in the chart below reflect the cruise-only program. If you wish to extend your trip, we recommend a pre-cruise land program as described on our Itinerary page.

  • Additional 3 nights in Prague pre-cruise from $900 (2022/2023) per person
  • Additional 2 nights in Munich pre-cruise from $940 (2022/2023) per person

‡ “In Celebration of Wine” cruise. Itinerary and shore excursions subject to change. Please call for details.

DATES SHIP NAME CRUISE ONLY
Aug 8-15, 2022 AmaBella $3,899
Aug 12-19, 2022 AmaSonata $3,899
Aug 19-26, 2022 AmaViola $3,899
Aug 21-28, 2022 AmaLea $3,999
Aug 26-Sep 2, 2022 AmaSonata $4,099
Sep 2-9, 2022 AmaViola $4,199
Sep 5-12, 2022 AmaBella $4,199
Sep 9-16, 2022 AmaSonata $4,199
Sep 16-23, 2022 AmaViola $4,199
Sep 30-Oct 7, 2022 AmaViola $4,199
Oct 2-9, 2022 AmaLea $4,199
Oct 3-10, 2022 AmaBella $4,199
Oct 7-14, 2022 AmaSonata $4,099
Oct 10-17, 2022 AmaVerde $4,099
Oct 14-21, 2022 AmaViola $3,999
Oct 16-23, 2022 AmaLea $3,899
Oct 21-28, 2022 AmaSonata $3,799
Oct 28-Nov 4, 2022 AmaViola $3,699
Oct 30-Nov 6, 2022 AmaLea $3,699
Oct 31-Nov 7, 2022 AmaBella $3,699
Nov 4-11, 2022 ‡ AmaSonata $3,599
Nov 7-14, 2022 AmaVerde $3,499
Nov 11-18, 2022 AmaViola $3,399
Nov 13-20, 2022 AmaLea $3,599
Nov 18-25, 2022 AmaSonata $3,199
Nov 21-28, 2022 AmaVerde $3,299
Nov 25-Dec 2, 2022 AmaViola $3,399
Dec 26, '22-Jan 2, '23 AmaBella $3,499
Mar 18-25, 2023 AmaSonata $2,899
Mar 20-27, 2023 ‡ AmaBella $2,999
Mar 25-Apr 1, 2023 AmaViola $2,999
Apr 3-10, 2023 AmaBella $3,199
Apr 8-15, 2023 AmaViola $3,299
Apr 10-17, 2023 AmaVerde $3,299
Apr 15-22, 2023 AmaSonata $3,399
May 1-8, 2023 AmaBella $3,699
May 8-15, 2023 AmaVerde $3,799
May 13-20, 2023 AmaSonata $3,799
May 28-Jun 4, 2023 AmaLea $3,899
May 29-Jun 5, 2023 AmaBella $3,899
Jun 5-12, 2023 AmaVerde $3,899
Jun 10-17, 2023 AmaSonata $3,899
Jun 26-Jul 3, 2023 AmaBella $3,899
Jul 1-8, 2023 AmaBella $3,899
Jul 8-15, 2023 AmaSonata $3,899
Jul 15-22, 2023 AmaViola $3,899
Jul 22-29, 2023 AmaSonata $3,899
Jul 24-31, 2023 AmaBella $3,899
Jul 29-Aug 5, 2023 AmaViola $3,899
Jul 31-Aug 7, 2023 AmaVerde $3,899
Aug 5-12, 2023 AmaSonata $3,899
Aug 6-13, 2023 AmaLea $3,899
Aug 12-19, 2023 AmaViola $3,899
Aug 19-26, 2023 AmaSonata $3,899
Aug 20-27, 2023 AmaLea $3,899
Aug 21-28, 2023 AmaBella $3,999
Aug 26-Sep 2, 2023 AmaViola $4,099
Aug 28-Sep 4, 2023 AmaVerde $4,099
Sep 2-9, 2023 AmaSonata $4,199
Sep 9-16, 2023 AmaViola $4,199
Sep 16-23, 2023 AmaSonata $4,199
Sep 18-25, 2023 AmaBella $4,199
Sep 30-Oct 7, 2023 AmaSonata $4,199
Oct 1-8, 2023 AmaLea $4,199
Oct 7-14, 2023 AmaViola $4,099
Oct 14-21, 2023 AmaSonata $3,999
Oct 16-23, 2023 AmaBella $3,899
Oct 21-28, 2023 AmaViola $3,799
Oct 23-30, 2023 AmaVerde $3,799
Oct 28-Nov 4, 2023 AmaSonata $3,699
Oct 29-Nov 5, 2023 AmaLea $3,699
Nov 4-11, 2023 ‡ AmaViola $3,599
Nov 12-19, 2023 ‡ AmaLea $3,399
Nov 13-20, 2023 AmaBella $3,399
Nov 18-25, 2023 AmaViola $3,199
Nov 20-27, 2023 AmaVerde $3,299

‡ “In Celebration of Wine” cruise. Itinerary and shore excursions subject to change. Please call for details.

Price above is per person in Category E, a deluxe stateroom with a window. Cabin upgrades are available at additional cost per person (see below).

AmaSonata Cabin Upgrade Pricing Per Person

Category Deck Stateroom 2022-2023 Price
D Piano Window add $299
C Violin/Cello French Balcony add $1099
BB Cello French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $1699
BA Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $1899
AB Violin/Cello French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $2099
AA Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $2299
AA+ Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $2899
SS Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $3599

AmaViola and AmaLea Cabin Upgrade Pricing Per Person

Category Deck Stateroom 2022-2023 Price
D Piano Fixed Windows add $299
CB Violin French Balcony add $799
CA Violin/Cello French Balcony add $1099
BB Cello French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $1699
BA Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $1899
AB Cello French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $2099
AA Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $2299
SS Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $3599

AmaBella and AmaVerde Cabin Upgrade Pricing Per Person

Category Deck Stateroom 2022-2023 Price
D Piano Window add $299
C Violin/Cello French Balcony add $1099
BB Cello French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $1699
BA Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $1899
AB Cello French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $2099
AA Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $2299
SS Violin French Balcony/Outside Balcony add $3599

Important: Dates, prices and itineraries are subject to change.

Pre-cruise Add-on Prague Land Program: $900 (2022/2023) per person, based on double-occupancy.

Pre-cruise Add-on Munich Land Program: $940 (2022/2023) per person, based on double-occupancy.

Port Charges not included in cruise price: $210 (2022/2023) per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise: 50% of twin price; A+, AA+ and Suites 100% of twin price.

Single Supplement for Land: Please call for details

Bedding: Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

Munich Hotel Land Extension: Pricing subject to change due to seasonality

Note: This cruise is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as agent in booking your reservation with the ship operator. The itinerary, lecturers, and all other arrangements are subject to change at the discretion of the cruise line.

Trip Cost Includes

  • 7 nights deluxe cruise accommodation in an outside stateroom
  • Most staterooms offer French balconies or revolutionary Twin Balconies
  • Life enriching tours and excursions daily
  • State-of-the-art Infotainment System in all staterooms featuring free high-speed Internet access, hit Hollywood movies, extensive music library and English language TV stations
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access on board
  • Terry cloth bathrobes and white-on-white plush bedding in all staterooms
  • Gourmet dining with all meals included during your cruise
  • Multiple dining venues on select vessels
  • Every lunch and dinner on board includes free-flowing regional wines as well as complimentary beer and soft drinks. In Europe, complimentary sparkling wine is also served with breakfast. Bottled water, specialty teas and coffees are always available free of charge.
  • Bottled water in every stateroom replenished daily
  • Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner and Captain’s Gala Dinner
  • Special highlights including onboard music performances and piano music
  • Bicycles to explore on your own and guided bicycle tours
  • Services of professional Cruise Manager
  • All English language on board in a non-smoking environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck)
  • All local taxes

Trip Cost Does Not Include

Airfare; arrival/departure transfers; taxes or government fees; passports or visa fees baggage fees; travel, health, accident or other insurance vaccinations; laundry; any meals or beverages not specified in itinerary; optional excursions; gratuities or other items of services of a personal nature.

Trip Payment Schedule*

At time of reservation: $400
100 days prior to departure: Balance

*Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule*

Minimum fee: $200 per person
90-120 days prior to departure: $400 per person
60-89 days prior to departure: 35% of trip cost
30-59 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
7-29 days prior to departure: 80% of trip cost
6 days or less: 100% of trip cost

*Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Arrival & Departure Information

You are responsible for your own transportation arriving to Vilshofen, Germany, and departing from Budapest, Hungary. If you have any questions, please call our office at 1-800-368-2794.

Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip. Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule.

2022 Departures
Embarkation
Vilshofen, Germany
Date: Day 1
From 3:00 pm

Suggested Airport for Arrival
Munich (MUC)
Time: Anytime on Day 1


The closest international airport is Franz Josef Strauss Airport, Munich (MUC) approximately 90 miles from the ship in Vilshofen approimately 2 hours from the ship.

Transfers may be requested at additional cost. (Call for details.)
Disembarkation
Budapest, Hungary
Date: Day 8
Time: 9:00 am

Suggested Departure Airport
Budapest (BUD)
Time: Anytime after 12:00 noon


The closest international airport is Ferenc Liszt Airport, Budapest (BUD) approximately 12 miles from the ship.


Lodging

AmaVerde

AmaVerde

Making her debut in 2011, the 161-passenger AmaVerde shares the distinction of having the largest average stateroom size (214 sq. ft.) in Europe with her sister ship, the AmaBella. An array of dining options is available for your culinary enjoyment. Choose Verde Fine Dining Restaurant, the ships’ main restaurant, serving gourmet cuisine, or Bella Cucina Restaurant, the second stylish restaurant, which offers classic Italian fare at dinner. At Erlebnis Chef’s Table Restaurant, passengers can watch a private chef prepare a tasting menu in this exclusive 24-seat venue. Guests can enjoy casual light lunch in the Main Lounge, or private dining in the Wine Room, seating up to six guests. On select days, enjoy lunch on the Sun Deck. There is also a heated pool and whirlpool, walking track, putting green, fitness room, sauna, and spa, and the ship carries a fleet of bicycles and safety helmets free for you to use. Thanks to the computer provided in your stateroom and high-speed Internet access plus Wi-Fi, you can stay connected with friends and family back home. The exclusive movies-on-demand system offers Hollywood’s current releases, a selection of classic films, or entertaining travel videos chosen to coincide with your itinerary. You’ll also enjoy a variety of English-language news, sports and satellite TV stations, and a selection of music channels. It’s all available on your flat-panel TV, and it’s completely complimentary.

View Image Gallery

AmaSonata

AmaSonata

The 164-passenger AmaSonata features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. Exclusive Twin Balconies are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 350 sq. feet. Gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wine is available at multiple onboard dining venues: enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations in the main dining room or in the Chef’s Table restaurant with its own private chef, two Wine Bar venues, plus a casual al fresco bistro. On select days, guests can enjoy a lunch outdoors on the Sun Deck. There is also a heated sun deck swimming pool with a “swim-up” bar and whirlpool, and a fitness center and spa. Thanks to the computer provided in your stateroom and high-speed Internet access plus Wi-Fi, you can stay connected with friends and family back home. The exclusive movies-on-demand system offers Hollywood’s current releases, a selection of classic films, or entertaining travel videos chosen to coincide with your itinerary. You’ll also enjoy a variety of English-language news, sports and satellite TV stations, as a selection of music channels. It’s all available on your flat-panel TV, and it’s completely complimentary. The ship carries a fleet of bicycles and safety helmets free for you to use.

View Image Gallery

AmaViola

AmaViola

The AmaViola is a sister ship to the AmaSerena and features the most advanced design of any river cruise vessel currently in operation. This 158-passenger vessel boasts spacious staterooms measuring a spacious 210-235 sq. ft., with four suites measuring 350 sq. ft. Each offers exclusive twin balconies and in-room Internet access and entertainment on demand. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wine at multiple onboard dining venues. Additional shipboard amenities include a heated pool with swim-up bar, fitness center, spa, gift shop, and library, and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours.

View Image Gallery

AmaLea

AmaLea

The AmaLea—set to debut in 2018—is a sister ship to the AmaKristina. "Twin Balconies" are available in most staterooms, which measure a spacious 210-235 sq. feet, with four suites measuring 350 sq. feet. Guests will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing fine wines at multiple onboard dining venues; a heated sun deck swimming pool with a "swim-up" bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary ship-wide Wi-Fi and in-room Internet and entertainment on demand; and a fleet of bicycles carried onboard for passengers to enjoy on their own or on guided bike tours.

View Image Gallery

AmaBella

AmaBella

The 161-guest AmaBella features a combination of amenities and design details with an impressive range of stateroom categories and public lounges, Dining on board presents an array of dining options. Choose Verde Fine Dining Restaurant, the ship's main restaurant, or Bella Cucina Restaurant, with classic Italian fare. At Erlebnis Chef’s Table Restaurant, passengers can watch as a private chef prepares a special tasting menu in this unique and exclusive 24-seat venue. On select days, enjoy a lunch outdoors on the Sun Deck and room service dining for breakfast and dinner is also available in select suite categories. The ship carries a fleet of bicycles and safety helmets free for you to use. The bicycles let you venture out and explore the riverside bikeways or meander through quaint cobblestone streets. The bikes are set up and ready for use as soon as the ship docks. Thanks to the computer provided in your stateroom and high-speed Internet access plus Wi-Fi, you can stay connected with friends and family back home. The exclusive movies-on-demand system offers Hollywood’s current releases, a selection of classic films, or entertaining travel videos chosen to coincide with your itinerary. You’ll also enjoy a variety of English-language news, sports and satellite TV stations, as well as a selection of music channels. It’s all available on your flat-panel TV, and it’s completely complimentary.

View Image Gallery

Trip Level

This cruise is rated Level 1, Easiest, and is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active. Daily shore excursions require a moderate amount of walking, often along uneven cobblestone streets and up and down stairs. To better accommodate guests and their individual fitness levels, AMA Waterways programs provide several  levels of walking tours whenever possible: “Gentle Walkers” are designed for slower walkers to enjoy the tour in a relaxed manner, “Active Walkers” enjoy the tours at a normal pace, and there is also a “Late Starters” group offered to guests who prefer to sleep in. 
 

On Board AMA Riverboats

AMA Waterways specializes in high-end river journeys that navigate some of Europe’s most famous waterways. Their ships accommodate approximately 150 passengers in comfortable staterooms, all with scenic views. While this might sound like a lot of travelers compared to Wilderness Travel’s traditional small group trips, it’s a modest number of passengers in the cruise ship world and there are a number of comfortable lounges, dining rooms, bars, and sitting areas on board for you to find a perfect spot to socialize or quietly relax, depending on your mood.

There is a warm and welcoming feel to all AMA cruises. From the moment you step onboard, you will be welcomed by crew, staff, and leaders who are friendly, professional and English speaking. There is a high staff to guest ratio (1:3) that assures a feeling of being well-taken-care-of at all times. Your fellow passengers will come from a variety of English-speaking countries and guests tend to mingle freely. No need to bring fancy clothes as the atmosphere onboard is casual, although guests do tend to dress up for the Captain’s dinner.  

Staterooms range from 160-350 square feet (depending on category), and typical hotel room amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, television, and mini-safe. Every stateroom has individually controlled air conditioning, internet access, Wi-Fi (free throughout the ship!) and a movie-on-demand system that offers a variety of English language channels, films and music options. Most staterooms have balconies, either walk-on or French, but lower categories just have fixed windows or portholes.

AMA is known for its efforts to bring in regional cuisine, which is always fun as you explore new countries and cultures. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style with made-to-order specialties. Dinner is multi-course. Every lunch and dinner includes free-flowing regional wines as well as complimentary beer and soft drinks. Bottled water, specialty teas, and coffees are always available free of charge. All ships have an open seating policy in the main restaurant to encourage you to meet your fellow travelers.  

Daily shore excursions are included in the cost of the cruise, along with free time to explore on your own. Each tour is led by a qualified, local guide. At many stops, you’ll be free to choose from one of several options. Complimentary headset systems ensure that you hear every word of your tour. AMA ships carry more than two dozen bicycles and helmets, free of charge, for your use should you want to venture into the countryside.  

There is a reception desk onboard that is open 24 hours a day with somebody available to help you, should you need it. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English as the clientele is mainly North American, Australian, and European. All AMA cruises prohibit smoking inside their ships. Smoking is only permitted outside on the sun deck.  

Electricity on board all ships is 220v, with 2-pin power outlets. You will need an adapter, and/or converter depending on which electrical appliances you bring with you.  There are no medical facilities on board although if medical services are needed, they can easily be called from shore. Laundry services are available for a fee.

All ships are equipped with either a whirlpool or a small, heated swimming pool.  If you think you might want to use this, be sure to pack a swimsuit!

Tips are not included in the price of the cruise, and are entirely at your discretion. The recommended rate suggested is 3 Euros per passenger per day to the Cruise Manager and 12 Euros per passenger per day to the crew, which will be divided up and distributed. You can use your credit card for this expense. It is also customary to acknowledge a particularly good performance of a local guide by leaving a tip of 1-2 Euros per tour.

Wilderness Travel enjoys partnering with AMA Waterways because they offer a high quality product with thoughtfully planned itineraries, allowing travelers to experience Europe’s most glorious architecture, medieval castles, historic villages, and idyllic countryside with minimal effort. Since these trips are relatively short, you may consider this as part of a longer, European adventure!

Explain Trip Level

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.
Examples:
  • Royal Rajasthan
  • Indochine
  • Small ship cruises

Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.
Examples:
  • New Zealand: South Island Adventure
  • Our African safaris
  • Costa Rica Wildlife

Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.
Examples:
  • Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
  • Great Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
  • Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
  • Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin, are Trip Level 3.

Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.
Examples:
  • In Patagonia
  • Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.
Examples:
  • Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
  • Everest Lodge to Lodge

Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.
Examples:
  • Everest Base Camp
  • Climb Kilimanjaro!

Choosing the Right Trip

We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please contact us.

Email Area Manager

References

We are proud to have an exceptionally high rate of repeat travelers. For more information, we would be happy to put you in touch with a client who has traveled with us.

Email Area Manager

Client Comments

There is a lot to be said in favor of cruising! Less unpacking and repacking, slower pace, lovely accommodations. The boat was beautiful, with attentive staff and good food.
— Jane F., Naples, FL
This was my first time on a riverboat cruise...it was a lot of fun (this comment is coming from someone who is not a boat tourist!).
— Phil F., Naples, FL
Our cruise manager was a highlight of the trip, as he was engaging, humorous, and always helpful.
— Linda S., Seattle, WA
This was one of the best trips we have ever taken!
— Ginger H., Mercer Island, WA
Everyone aboard the ship was great, and the guides for the off-ship tours were very informative and knowledgeable.
— Ronald F., Half Moon Bay, CA

Recent Photo Blog Posts

The Joy of Wandering

Resources

Travel Insurance
WT Gear Store

What to Know Before You Go

PASSPORT

A valid passport is required for traveling on this trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for six months after the conclusion of your trip. It is a good idea to carry photocopies of your passport photo page in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.

VISAS

No visa is required for US Citizens traveling to Czech Republic, Germany, Austria, Slovakia or Hungary.

MEDICAL

We recommend checking the Center for Disease Control at www.cdc.gov should you have any international health concerns.

INOCULATIONS

No inoculations are currently required for Europe.

Find A Trip
Call Us: 1-800-368-2794
Email Us

Wilderness Travel

Wilderness Travel

Discover
  • Our Trips
  • New Trips
  • Special Offers
  • Top Ten Places in 2022
  • Wish List
  • Photo Blog
Keep in Touch
  • Contact Us
  • Catalog Request
  • Digital Catalog
  • Enews Sign-up
  •  
  •  
  •  
About WT
  • Welcome
  • How We Travel
  • Our Leaders
  • Making a Difference
  • Awards
  • WT in the News
  • Careers
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
Resources
  • Reserving a Trip
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Toucan Club
  • Referrals
  • Post-trip Survey
  • Client Forms & Helpful Links
  • Travel Insurance
  • Travel Agents
  • Gear Store
  • Gift Certificates
  • Site Map
Wilderness Travel Awards
1102 Ninth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
California Seller of Travel Registration No.: 1007696-40
Wilderness Travel Awards
1102 Ninth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
California Seller of Travel Registration No.: 1007696-40
Discover
  • Our Trips
  • New Trips
  • Special Offers
  • Top Ten Places in 2022
  • Wish List
  • Photo Blog
Keep in Touch
  • Contact Us
  • Catalog Request
  • Digital Catalog
  • Enews Sign-up
  •  
  •  
  •  
About WT
  • Welcome
  • How We Travel
  • Our Leaders
  • Making a Difference
  • Awards
  • WT in the News
  • Careers
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Use
Resources
  • Reserving a Trip
  • Terms & Conditions
  • Toucan Club
  • Referrals
  • Post-trip Survey
  • Client Forms & Helpful Links
  • Travel Insurance
  • Travel Agents
  • Gear Store
  • Gift Certificates
  • Site Map