Get into the heart of Europe. I mean, really get in there.
Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises sail to land-locked destinations and stop right in the heart of the city or town. Destinations visited during a river cruise aren’t always bustling, but that’s the beauty of it all. Providing an intimate ambiance, and one can argue, a more authentic European experience, river cruising is growing in popularity amongst avid cruisers.
What is it like? Here’s a peek of a 7-night journey with AmaWaterways on the Danube.
Day 1:Welcome aboard AmaWaterways. Mingle with other travelers over dinner and cocktails.
Restaurant in the Amacello
Day 2: Explore Budapest, the capital of Hungary, and considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Embracing the two sides of the Danube, Budapest is like two cities in one. Buda is on a hill, on the western bank of the river and forms the historical part of the city, where the famous Castle Hill and 14th century Royal Palace are found. Pest is on a plain and is bustling with shops and boulevards.
Day 3: Enjoy a leisurely tour of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. With a population of approximately 430,000, this modern city rich with history, culture and magnificent views offers a quaint Eastern European experience.
![Danube in Bratislava]( "Bratislava")
- Danube in Bratislava
Day 4: Wake up in Vienna, the capital of Austria where parks, gardens and squares are commonplace. Tour the city and then finish the day jamming at an evening concert.
Square in Vienna
Day 5:Still in Austria, but now in Dürnstein. There are no malls or street markets here. Get to know the small town of less than 750 people by foot or bicycle. And after burning all those calories, treat yourself to some wine. Then, head on over to Melk, famous for the stunning Abbey, built over 900 years ago by Benedictine monks, who are also famous for brewing their own beer.
Day 6:On this sixth day, discover Linz, a quaint and picturesque Austrian town shy of 200,000 people. Decide between a Gmunden or Cesky Krumlov excursion.
Day 7:Welcome to Germany. Put your walking shoes on for a walking tour of picture perfect Passau, the “City of Three Rivers.”
The Amacello in Passau
Day 8: Say your good-byes to new friends and disembark.
There’s no doubt about it. River cruising gets into the heart of Europe. Take a look at Cruise Experts Travel’s river cruises here. And if you like what you see, don’t hesitate to contact us at 1-800-565-2784.
By the way, we’re offering shipboard credits of $550-$650 if you book an AmaWaterways river cruise by November 30, 2010. AmaWaterways offers the following free: daily sightseeing and excursions, internet, movies and music in every stateroom, wine, beer and soft drinks, onboard lectures, and the use of bicycles to explore ports of call on your own, should you desire. Call us at 1-800-565-2784.