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AmaWaterways
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Budapest
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Included
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River Cruise
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AmaRudi
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luxury
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Europe, Western Europe, Danube
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Hungary, Slovakia, Austria
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8 days / 7 nights
Best of the Danube
Offer Highlights
Capture the imperial history of Old-World Europe along the Danube River as it flourished beneath towering fortresses and inspired legendary artists and musicians. With an abundance of scenic cruising, a focus on grand cities and popular landmarks, and the ease of traveling roundtrip from Budapest, this special itinerary is our Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner’s top-choice itinerary for 2025 – be among the first to experience it! Begin your journey with our pre-cruise land package in majestic Budapest, during which you will immerse yourself in some of the Hungarian capital’s lesser-known heritage and historic sites. After embarking your ship, discover the luxury and beauty of river cruising as you glide through the scenic Wachau Valley, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout your journey you will visit the river’s legendary capitals: Bratislava and Vienna – where AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, the visionary “Godfather of River Cruising,” was born and raised. Encounter fascinating architecture from Melk’s golden-hued Benedictine abbey to Vienna’s magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. Plus, follow The Sound of Music through sprawling Salzburg, the incomparable birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.
Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia and is located along the Danube a river on the borders of Austria and Hungary. The city is surrounded by the Little Carpathians Mountains and vineyards as well as its iconic reconstructed Bratislava Castle overlooking Old Town. The castle offers a picturesque view of the city, the neighbouring countries and is home to the Museum of History. Bratislava offers a blend of historic and modern attractions including the Old Town Hall, now home to the Bratislava City Museum, the UFO Bridge, Martin’s Cathedral, Michael’s Gate and Blue Church St Elizabeth’s. Bratislava is home to one of the oldest city parks in Central Europe and is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists as is the city forest park and foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. The city is popular for its locally brewed beers and has many micro-breweries and underground beer cellars. The local cuisine of Bratislava is an eclectic influence of European cultures including Slovak, Hungarian, Austrian and German and serves as a reminder of the history of this cosmopolitan city. However, visitors will find an array of offerings to suit all tastes with lunch being the main meal of the day and roast goose with lokse considered a signature dish of the area.
Melk is an Austrian town situated on the River Danube. Located west of Vienna, the town is mostly famous for its 11th Century Melk Abbey, a magnificent monastery built high above the town. Melk Abbey is the largest example of Baroque architecture in the Wachau Valley, with the valley itself awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2000. Its steep terraced vineyards mean vinters cultivate with traditional manual practices and the springtime sees this unique landscape covered in apricot tree blossoms. Strolling around the streets of Melk Old Town, visitors will find the Town Hall Square, the Main Square, the old Post Office, now a local museum, Old Abbey Tavern, and Kremser Strasse. River cruises, self-guided walking tours and cycle tours are also extremely popular around Melk, as the Wachau Valley offers unique landscape to be explored and enjoyed. Art festivals and Baroque music is celebrated each year with the Melk Baroque Days, an international festival.
Linz is a city in northern Austria located on both banks of the Danube River and is a short distance from Salzburg and Vienna. Linz has been awarded UNESCO City of Media Arts status and prides itself on offering a broad spectrum of events, activities and cultural institutions. Enjoy popular open air concert such as Klassik am Dom and extravagant street performances, which attract large crowds and popular international artists. Art galleries and centres are in abundance around the city as well as many museums housing international collections and depictions of the history and heritage of Linz. The architecture of the city also plays an important role in Linz’s cultural heritage with Main Square, Old Town and Mariendom Cathedral being some key attractions. Families will enjoy a trip to Postlingberg, located high up in the mountains and featuring a zoo, the Grottenbahn and spectacular views of the river and city below.
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.
AmaRudi
Experience the ultimate in river cruise luxury aboard AmaRudi, the newest ship to join our fleet. Named for co-Founder Rudi Schreiner, this next-generation Danube ship combines spacious suites with full balconies, an expansive fitness studio, a heated sun-deck pool and whirlpool, four unique restaurants, and the same warm and personal atmosphere you expect from AmaWaterways.
Launching in 2027, AmaRudi will be an evolution of the award-winning AmaMagna, designed at twice the width of traditional river ships and purpose-built for the Danube. Carrying fewer guests in larger spaces, AmaRudi will include balcony suites ranging from 355 to 710 sq. ft., four unique dining venues serving farm-to-ship cuisine, and expansive amenities including the Zen Wellness Studio and a Sun Deck pickleball court. With elegant design and thoughtful service, AmaRudi will set a new standard for luxury on the Danube.
Owner's Suite
SuiteSpacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...
Grand Suite
SuiteSpacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...
Category SA Staterooms
BalconyBalconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...
Category SB Staterooms
BalconyBalconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...
Category AA Staterooms
BalconyBalconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...
Category AB Staterooms
BalconyBalconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...
Category D Staterooms
OutsideComfort and Understated LuxuryExperience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elev...
Category E Staterooms
OutsideComfort and Understated LuxuryExperience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elev...
AmaRudi will have four distinct dining venues: the Main Restaurant, serving a variety of international and regional specialties; The Chef’s Table, featuring an intimate multi-course tasting menu; Jimmy’s, providing lively family-style dining; and Al Fresco, offering fresh, vegetable-forward cuisine in an open-air setting. Farm-to-ship sourcing will ensure menus highlight the flavors of the Danube. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs will be happily accommodated.
Farm-to-ship cuisine
Fresh, local cuisine designed to connect you with the regions you’re sailing through.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner on board daily
- The Chef's Table, an open-kitchen specialty restaurant on every European sailing
- Wines, beers and soft drinks with meals
- Specialty coffee, tea and bottled water throughout the day
- Sip & Sail cocktail hour before dinner
- Welcome cocktail reception and Captain's gala
Journey's Restaurant
ComplimentaryExperience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local...
Al Fresco Restaurant
ComplimentaryThe intimate Al Fresco Restaurant, serving up delicious vegetable-forward fare.
The Chef’s Table
ComplimentaryJoin a few of your fellow travellers at The Chef’s Table, an intimate venue where the kitchen, usually hidden, becomes p...
Adventures on your terms
Bike through vineyards, hike to hilltop castles, join morning yoga on the sun deck, or relax on the riverbank. You set the tone. We make it happen.
- Daily choice of guide-led experiences
- Choose from gentle, regular and active versions of most activities
- Bikes on board for shore-side rides, all included
- Wellness host with daily fitness, stretch and meditation classes on every European sailing
The Lark Lounge & Bar
This versatile space hosts a bar, dance floor, plenty of comfortable couches and big windows on thre...
Sun Deck
Enjoy fresh air and breathtaking Nile River views on the Sun Deck, where a refreshing pool awaits. R...
Onboard Entertainment
Onboard Performances and Musical EveningsThroughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into...
Rudi's Wine Bar
Rudi's Wine Bar can be located on the Piano Deck.
Coffee Corner
The Coffee Corner can be loacted on the Violin Deck.
Lobby
Guests will first enter the lobby when they embark on their river cruise.
Transform your mind, body and soul within the expansive Zen Wellness Studio, an evolution of AmaWaterways’ fitness centres, where you can participate in group classes led by a professionally trained Wellness Host, rehydrate with fresh-squeezed juice at the juice bar, or get a soothing massage in one of two treatment rooms.
With fewer guests on board, we are able to offer an array of amenities on our award-winning ships. When you’re not off exploring another stunning destination, take some time to unwind, relax and rejuvenate with our pools, massage services and more.
Zen Wellness Studio
Guests aboard AmaRudi will have access to the expansive Zen Wellness Studio, one of the largest on t...
Wellbeing Workshops
Transform your mind, body and soul within the expansive Zen Wellness Studio, an evolution of AmaWate...
Sun Deck
- Sun Deck
- Pool
- Whirlpool
- Pickleball Court
- Wheelhouse
Violin Deck
- The Lark Lounge & Bar
- Quiet Lounge
- Fitness Area
- Spa
- Owner's Suite
- Grand Suite
- Cat SA Stateroom
- Cat AA Stateroom
Cello Deck
- Journey's Restaurant
- Lobby
- Boutique
- Cat SB Stateroom
- Cat AB Stateroom
Piano Deck
- The Chef's Table
- Rudi's Wine Restaurant
- The Studio
- Elevator
- Cat D Stateroom
- Cat E Stateroom
Choose your cabin
Window
Cabin with a river-view window
1 option
Balcony
French or outside balcony with river views
6 options
21 dates available
| Date | Ship | Window | Balcony | Suite | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 07 Feb 2027 | AmaLea | £1,853 | £2,775 | £5,083 | View |
| 14 Feb 2027 | AmaLea | £2,121 | £3,005 | £5,313 | View |
| 21 Feb 2027 | AmaLea | £2,352 | £3,236 | £5,544 | View |
| 28 Feb 2027 | AmaLea | £2,591 | £3,513 | £5,821 | View |
| 10 Apr 2027 | AmaLea | £3,275 | £4,159 | £6,467 | View |
| 19 May 2027 | AmaSonata | £3,612 | £4,842 | £6,842 | View |
| 27 Jun 2027 | AmaRudi | £3,796 | £5,104 | — | Viewing |
| 30 Jun 2027 | AmaSonata | £3,283 | £4,513 | £6,513 | View |
| 29 Sep 2027 | AmaSonata | £3,668 | £4,898 | £6,898 | View |
| 22 Nov 2027 | AmaVerde | £3,207 | £4,437 | £6,437 | View |
| 29 Jan 2028 | AmaLea | — | £2,944 | £5,166 | View |
| 05 Feb 2028 | AmaLea | £2,130 | £3,018 | £5,241 | View |
| 12 Feb 2028 | AmaLea | £2,204 | £3,092 | £5,315 | View |
| 26 Feb 2028 | AmaLea | £2,426 | £3,315 | £5,537 | View |
| 17 May 2028 | AmaSonata | £3,865 | £5,050 | £6,976 | View |
| 24 May 2028 | AmaSonata | £3,865 | £5,050 | £6,976 | View |
| 18 Jun 2028 | AmaRudi | £4,125 | £6,125 | — | View |
| 16 Aug 2028 | AmaSonata | £3,189 | £4,374 | £6,300 | View |
| 24 Sep 2028 | AmaMagna | £4,622 | £6,621 | — | View |
| 27 Sep 2028 | AmaSonata | £4,362 | £5,546 | £7,472 | View |
| 12 Nov 2028 | AmaMagna | £3,501 | £5,501 | — | View |