Day 1 - Arrive Budapest, Embark Ship Arrive in Budapest today and transfer to your luxurious river cruise ship. This evening, enjoy the Captain's Gala Welcome Dinner with your Tour Director and fellow guests.
Seven night stay: one of APT's luxurious Aria or Concerto Class river ships. D
Day 2 - Budapest Alight your ship for a tour that includes such places as Matthias Church, St Stephen's Basilica, the Fisherman's Bastion, Buda Castle and the Royal Palace. The site of many battles over the centuries, this grand palace has become a symbol of Hungary. The castle district and embankments of the River Danube in Budapest have been officially recognised as World Heritage listed sites. Afterwards, enjoy time at leisure, or take an optional excursion to Baths and Liberty Monument and enjoy panoramic views before a visit to the famous thermal baths. B, L, D
Day 3 - Bratislava, Vienna Cruise to Bratislava, Slovakia's capital city. Nestled between Austria and Hungary, Bratislava is the only capital city to border two independent countries. Thanks to its unique location at the base of the Little Carpathians, this charming city has a wealth of forest and parkland, while its urban skyline is characterised by a mix of medieval towers and modern edifices. Here, choose from a walking tour that takes in the Old Town Hall, Mirbach Palace and more. Or visit some of the historic landmarks from the city's Communist past. This evening arrive in Vienna and enjoy an evening at a traditional Heuriger Wine Inn. B, L, D
Day 4 - Vienna Famed for striking architecture, classical musical and vibrant cafe culture, Vienna is a truly delightful place to explore, packed with historical and cultural landmarks. A wide variety of architectural masterpieces can be seen here, including stunning examples of Baroque and Romanesque design. Today, during a guided tour, see the spectacular Hofburg Palace, Vienna Opera House, the famous monuments of the Ringstrasse, St Stephen's Cathedral and more. Enjoy free time then, after dinner, explore the Austrian capital on your own, or perhaps take in an optional Mozart and Strauss concert (own expense). B, L, D
Day 5 - Durnstein, Melk Arrive in Durnstein for a tour and wine tasting this morning, before cruising to Melk. Tour Melk Abbey, one of the world's most famously beautiful monastic sites. Located high above the town of Melk on a rocky outcrop overlooking the winding Danube, the abbey has the rare distinction of surviving as an active Benedictine monastery continuously since its foundation. B, L, D
Day 6 - Linz Choose your tour of Linz, the second largest city in Austria. With a vibrant culture, the city has many striking buildings, including a cathedral and concert hall. Tour the city, or perhaps join an excursion to the resort town of Gmunden, in the Austrian Lake District on Lake Traunsee. Gmunden is a destination famed for its many therapeutic baths, historic sites of interest, and as a producer of salt. Alternatively, take a day excursion to Cesky Krumlov in the South Bohemian region of the Czech Republic. This small historic city features an impressive thirteenth century castle. Or you may like to visit the city of Salzburg in Austria, the birthplace of Mozart, with a beautiful World Heritage listed historic old town (both excursions at own expense). B, L, D
Day 7 - Passau, Vilshofen Arrive in Passau and take a tour of this 2,000 year old fairytale Roman town. Known as the 'city of three rivers', Passau is where the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. The town has a fascinating history and is noted for Gothic and Baroque architecture. Alternatively, take an excursion to Munich (own expense). Then cruise to the charming town of Vilshofen, at the confluence of the Vils and Danube rivers. B, L, D
Day 8 - Vilshofen, Disembark Ship, Munich Disembark your ship this morning after breakfast, and travel to the medieval city of Regensburg. Enjoy a fascinating walking tour of the ancient sights before continuing to the beautiful city of Munich. Transfer to your hotel and enjoy time at leisure to settle in.
Three night stay: Munich, Le Meridien B
Day 9 - Munich Sightseeing Founded in 12th century, Munich is today the capital of the picturesque state of Bavaria, a region of rolling green hills and beautiful architecture representing many centuries of design and development. The city itself is often voted one of the world's most liveable, offering an attractive combination of cultural and historical landmarks, pretty streets and modern infrastructure. This morning enjoy a tour of Munich, before the remaineder of the day is yours to spend at leisure exploring this exciting city independently. B
Day 10 - Munich Travel to 19th century Neuschwanstein Castle in the Bavarian Alps. The most photographed building in Germany, the awe inspiring 'gothic revival' style castle inspired the famous Disneyland Castle and has appeared in several movies. It was commissioned by King Ludwig II of Bavaria, intended as a private bolt hole for the reclusive king, and as an homage to the composer Richard Wagner. Since Ludwig's death in 1886, over 50 million people have visited. Explore the intricate and theatrical interior of the castle, and enjoy the beautiful rural panoramas visible from the site. Then return to Munich. B
Day 11 - Depart Munich Your tour ends this morning after breakfast as you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. B
Cruise ships operating this itinerary:
MS AmaDolce - Launched in 2009
MS AmaLyra - Launched in 2009
MS AmaDante - Launched in 2008
MS AmaCello - Launched in 2008
MS AmaLegro - Launched in 2007
MS AmaDagio - Launced in 2006
MS AmaVerde - Launched in 2011
MS AmaBella - Launched in 2010
* Ports of call may vary based on itinerary and departure dates selected
Cabin Pricing
Ports
Budapest
Budapest possesses a rich and fascinating history as well as a vibrant cultural heritage. Recognizing the unique value of its traditions it has managed to maintain its magic and charm, and is rightly known as the Queen of the Danube. It has also been called the City of Spas, as there are a dozen thermal baths complexes served by over a hundred natural thermal springs.
Country - Hungary Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 14kms Currency - Forint (HUF)
Places of Interest Ecseri Flea Market, Royal Palace, National Gallery, Great Synagogue and Jewish Museum, Fisherman's Bastion, Statue Park
Bratislava
Bratislava is redolent with Hapsburg Baroque architecture, preserved in many historic row houses and the pedestrianised Old Town, which has been extensively renovated. But as an ancient trading post, its history is much older, with German settlers since the middle ages, Hungarians, Italians, and a large Jewish community with some places of worship still remaining.
Country - Slovakia Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 8kms Currency - Slovak Koruna (SKK)
Places of Interest Bratislava Castle, Slovak National Gallery, Primatial Palace, Slavin Monument, Michalska Street
Vienna
Vienna is known worldwide as a city of music. Quality orchestras and ensembles are its seal of excellence. Along with well-established ensembles for contemporary music classical music continues to play a vital role, as made evident by the City of Vienna Concert Orchestra and the Vienna Symphony Orchestra, amongst others. The Vienna Academy, the Vienna Chamber Orchestra and the Women's Chamber Orchestra are dedicated to tradition and modern music alike. International artists are a great gain to cultural life in Vienna.Vienna's cultural life is multi-faceted. You have the choice of 50 theatres, four opera houses, two stages for musicals, 100 museums and numerous theatre, music and dance festivals. The museum quarter with its baroque facade is home to one of the biggest cultural districts in Europe.
CountryAustria Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 15kms Currency -Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Hofburg Palace, Vienna Opera House, Spanish Riding School, Prater Park, Danube Tower, Vienna Zoo
Durnstein
One of the Wachau district’s most attractive villages is Durnstein, where the ruins of a castle - the Kuenringerburg - high up on a hill commands a superb view of the Danube as it winds through the valley. Stroll among the ruins and soak in the historic atmosphere of the castle where King Richard I of England was incarcerated in 1192. And after your journey into the past rejoin the 21st century and sample some of the splendid local wines in one of the local taverns.
Country - Austria Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 95kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Kuenringerburg, Wachsu Wine District
Melk
Empress Maria Theresa said of Melk, "If I had never come here, I would have regretted it." The center of Melk is the Abbey and the Stiftskirche (the abbey church), some of the best examples of Baroque architecture anywhere in the world. The abbey library contains allegorical paintings by Troger on the ceiling while the Stiftskirche, has works by Rottmayr and Troger and is almost completely decorated in gold. Stand on the terrace of the abbey and view the river much as Napoleon did during the campaign against Austria so many years ago.
Country - Austria Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance to Airport - 105kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Melk Abbey and Museum
Linz
Linz is a city of the third millennium. In and around the city, its Roman and medieval past slumbers. The opulence of the Baroque and the boldness of industrial architecture from the early 20th century are part of present-day life. Linz on the Danube is manageable, cosy, cherishes its traditions and, as the third biggest city in a small country, it is both metropolis and province, Central European crossroads and regional niche.
Country - Austria Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 11kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Old Town, Linz Castle, Arts Electronica Centre, Brucknerhaus Concert Hall
Passau
Passau is not merely a transfer point but a destination unto itself. Life is easy-going and lived outdoors where street cafes and restaurants abound. Student life is vibrant and multifaceted. Guests can actively interface with young people from around the world over a Hacklbräu, Andorfer Weissbier or Passauer Löwenbräu brew in the beer gardens.
Country - Germany Distance from port to City - 0kms Distance from Port to Airport - 100kms Currency - Euro (EUR)
Places of Interest Bavarian Forest, Local Breweries, Danube River
ms Amalyra Cabin Info
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Cruise line info
APT (Australian Pacific Touring)
A family - owned company since its auspicious conception in the 1920s, we began when Bill McGeary built a bus body on a tray truck after a tram strike crippled the city of Melbourne. Through Bill's son Geoff, we pioneered Australia's dynamic travel industry in the 1960's and 70's via a diverse range of modes. Such innovation continues to thrive within us today, now a multi-brand business with an extensive global portfolio of touring and cruising products still owned and controlled by the McGeary family. Now, with a third generation of the family contributing to our success, the benefits of the Company's family - style culture are increasingly apparent.
While vigorously pursuing a global vision, the unwavering focus is on delivering a life - enriching and memorable holiday experience for each and every individual that entrusts us with their valuable time and travel. Such longevity in a competitive environment coupled with a proven ability to meet the shifting expectations of the modern holidaymaker is testament to the pioneering spirit upon which the company was founded, and upon which it continues to operate and flourish today.
Ship info
ms Amalyra
The MS Amalyra debuted in 2009. This vessel's set new standards in European river cruising and offer a number of features, which no other European river cruise ship can match. The vessel carries 148 passengers in unequaled luxury, comfort and style and is staffed by a highly-trained professional crew, with an ongoing emphasis on personal service.
Dining
Onboard culinary staff offers sophisticated menus comprised of wonderful soups, fresh produce, high quality choice cut meats, and fresh fish and seafood. Your Maitre d' always welcomes you to the restaurant with a bright smile.
Start your day with a lavish gourmet champagne breakfast buffet. Choose from a rich assortment of breads, croissants and pastries, a variety of fresh fruit, yogurt, cereals, and smoked salmon. Sample the delicious cheeses, cold cuts and local sausages, as well as our daily regional specials. An array of traditional breakfast items is also available from the menu.
Return from your shore excursion to a delicious lunch. Start with mouth-watering hot or cold appetizers, homemade soups, then choose from a selection of great entrees, finish off with a delectable dessert and complimentary cappuccino.
In the evening, be our honored guest for an elegant dinner or a traditional theme night with a feast of regional specialties. Enjoy delicious cuisine and complimentary free-flowing wines from the local vintners. Our kitchen crew knows how to orchestrate a truly memorable dining experience.
Amenities
BICYCLES: Each ship has plenty of bicycles onboard which can be used by passengers, free of charge, to explore the small towns. Most regions offer well-maintained bicycle paths along the river.
WELLNESS AREA: Located in the aft area of the Violin Deck, this generously designed space includes a glassed-in fitness room, massage and beauty salon; the aft lounge with modern wicker furniture and French doors to enjoy the fresh river air.
ELEVATOR: Each ship has an elevator, which very few river cruise ships feature. The elevator reaches four different levels: the Restaurant level (1), the Staterooms on the Cello Deck (2), the Lobby and Panorama Lounge (3) and the Staterooms on the Violin Deck (4).
INFOTAINMENT SYSTEMS: Every stateroom is equipped with monitor, keyboard with Internet access, English language TV stations, a large movie selection and numerous music programs. Our satellite telephone system allows you to call home for a nominal fee.
