Cruise the Heart of Europe

Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. Your AHI Travel representative will join you for a transfer to the pier to embark your first-class river ship. After unpacking and getting to know your ship’s amenities, gather with your shipmates for a convivial Welcome Reception and Dinner.

Discover one of Europe’s most magnificent capital cities! Choose from (1) a deep dive into the history of Budapest with visits to Heroes’ Square, the Opera House and the Gothic-style Parliament Building, (2) a guided tour of Budapest’s bustling Great Market Hall, built in the 19th century, or (3) a tour of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter beginning at the Great Synagogue. Tonight, delight in the city’s awe-inspiring panoramas during an evening cruise.

Learn about the history of Vienna, whose vibrancy echoes in its grand façades and timeless sights. Discover this elegant city for yourself by choosing from (1) a tour of the Imperial Apartments of Hofburg Palace, plus the Houses of Parliament and the Opera House, (2) a drive outside of Vienna for a guided walk among the forested hills, or (3) a tour of the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the former residence of the Imperial family. Tonight, stretch your legs and tap your toes during a waltz lesson aboard the ship.

The beloved village of Dürnstein is located in one of Austria’s notable wine-growing regions. Discover the personality of this tranquil town by choosing from (1) a walking tour of the city, where King Richard the Lionheart of England was held captive during the Crusades, (2) a leisurely bike ride along a portion of the 745-mile Danube Bicycle Trail, or (3) a visit to a winery to enjoy samples from its cellar. Back on board, cruise to Melk and enjoy a tour of its extraordinary Benedictine abbey.

With its Italian-style architecture, gentle rolling hills and position at the confluence of the Danube, Ilz and Inn rivers, Passau is called “one of the most beautifully situated towns in the world.” Highlights of this romantic city include Niedernburg Abbey, the medieval Veste Oberhaus — which offers fantastic panoramic views — and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home of the world’s largest cathedral organ with almost 18,000 pipes.

Regensburg is one of Germany’s most whimsical towns with a trove of pretty squares and a skyline of impossibly tall towers. Enjoy a walking tour to see the old Roman tower, the 12th-century stone pedestrian bridge and the yellow Old Town Hall. Admire the stunning stained-glass windows, towers and other elements of St. Peter’s Cathedral, and visit the Thurn und Taxi Palace, formerly a Benedictine monastery.

The UNESCO-listed village of Bamberg has many treasures to share! Choose from (1) a walking tour that highlights the city’s Gothic and baroque architecture, including the famous Neptune statue, or (2) a culinary tour with visits to a local bakery, butcher shop, deli and candy store to sample local Franconian foods.

Würzburg, a baroque university city perched along the Main River, will inspire you with its magnificent churches and history-steeped landmarks. Choose from (1) a visit to the 18th-century Würzburg Residenz, a palace of staggering size, plus a walking tour to see St. Kilian’s Cathedral and the Old Town Hall, or (2) a journey through the Franconian heartland, passing fairy-tale villages with enchanting architecture. Stop in Rothenburg ob der Tauber, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities.

Begin the morning with a one-of-a-kind event: Frühschoppen! Nibble, sip and socialize as you enjoy the German tradition of drinking beer accompanied by tasty snacks. Upon arrival in medieval Miltenberg, take a guided walking tour down romantic streets, passing half-timbered façades and a 13th-century castle. See the town’s highlights, including Germany’s oldest inn, the Riesen, and visit a local wine shop for a tasting in its 15th-century, vaulted cellar.

This morning, the ship cruises past the legendary Loreley Rock and inspiring views of castles, small villages and vineyards. More than 2,000 years ago, the Romans established a settlement at the confluence of the Mosel and Rhine rivers. Today, Koblenz occupies that same strategic location. Choose between (1) a walking tour of Koblenz, passing by the Town Hall, the onion-domed Liebfrauenkirche, the Alte Burg and other sites, including the iconic German Corner, or (2) hop on a cable car for a ride to the famous Ehrenbreitstein Fortress perched above the Rhine River. Tour the fortress and learn about its storied history.

Arrive in Cologne and enjoy a tour the town’s medieval quarter. Visit Kölner Dom and the 13th-century cathedral that also is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Depart Cologne this afternoon and take in scenery along the Rhine as you continue to Amsterdam. Tonight, celebrate your exciting journey with a special Farewell Reception and Dinner on board.

Start the day with a discussion on the state of affairs in Holland. Then choose between 1) a tour of the Rijksmuseum, home to masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer and other renowned artists, 2) a guided bike tour of scenic Waterland, or 3) a walking tour of the Herengracht, Amsterdam’s canal district. Later today, board a canal cruiser for a unique tour of Amsterdam by waterway. Marvel at the delightful and colorful houses, parks and architectural gems lining the city’s canals.