Why you should cruise the Danube River & when is the best time of year
River cruises offer stunning views of the landscapes along the riverbanks, including picturesque villages, historic castles, and lush vineyards. River cruises can take you to destinations that are not easily accessible by other means of transportation, allowing you to explore off-the-beaten-path locations.
The Danube has played a crucial role in the history of Europe, serving as a cultural and economic artery for many civilizations, including the Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman empires.
Flow through Europe's iconic cities and 10 countries, making it a melting pot of cultures, languages, and traditions. It passes through or borders Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Ukraine. So you can imagine that winding along this passageway is like unlocking some up Europe's hidden gems, waking up to new landscapes and sweeping views you would not see in your traditional hotel or ocean cruise.
Walk onto your balcony & wander through scenic old-country villages, stop at fairytale-esque castles, medieval fortresses, churches, museums, concert halls and more - to say nothing of the amazing food, wine and beer. River cruises on the Danube are sure to leave you with lifelong memories.
Featured Avalon Itinerary: Danube Dreams
8- days 4 countries: Budapest to Vilshofen
from $3,999 USD
Featuring the widest-opening, wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in river cruising, your Avalon Panorama Suite is actually river cruising’s only Open–Air Balcony® — with living space that’s 30% larger than the industry standard. Save $1,000 per couple on select 2024 Avalon Waterways Europe river cruises (combinable with $599 Air)
Book Avalon Waterways today and you're gratuities are free prepaid!
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Monument, the Krumlov Castle is actually a large complex of 40 buildings and palaces, five castle courts and a castle park and garden. First built in the 13th century by the Lords of Krumlov -- a powerful Czech family with a five-petal rose on their coat-of-arms.
Visit this gorgeous town and more on AmaWaterways Romantic Danube, Melodies of the Danube, Magna on the Danube and Grand Danube itineraries.
When you plan your AmaWaterways river cruise vacation with a travel advisor you are in for a treat:
» $150 per stateroom onboard credit on cruises less than 14 nights
» $250 per stateroom onboard credit on cruises 14 nights or more
Onboard credit can be used for all onboard purchases; gratuities, gift shop. hair and massage services.
Plus right now, with AmaWaterway's AirPlus promotion, they are offering roundtrip trans-Atlantic flights and transfers at fixed rates starting as low as $899 per person on select 2024 and 2025 Europe sailings or $999 per person on select 2026 Europe sailings. This offer is combinable on select sailings with other promotions, so you can relax knowing you are getting the greatest value on your entire journey.
A veritable showcase of the best of Central Europe, this is a journey any culturally curious world traveler will love
The shimmering waters of the fabled Danube River flow for thousands of miles through the very heart of Europe, silent witness to centuries of artistic achievement and historical events. This perfectly composed journey provides an immersive cultural tasting menu of four equally beguiling countries—ideal for first-time river cruisers as well as seasoned travelers seeking to experience yet another dimension of these much-loved destinations.
For a truly magical seasonal experience cruising the Danube is especially memorable during the time of year of the Christmas market.
Uniworld offers a cruise benefit of $150 per person Shipboard Credit on all departures when you book with a travel advisor.
During this 8-day journey, encounter the grand cities and quaint villages along the celebrated Danube River. Explore both sides of Hungary’s capital, traditional, hilly Buda and cosmopolitan Pest. Witness Vienna’s imperial architecture and tour medieval towns in Austria’s Wachau Valley. Savor the tastes of authentic dishes, learn about local legends and understand why Strauss immortalized the “Blue Danube” in his waltz.
Why is Christmas the most beautiful time to river cruise?
In Europe, open-air Christmas markets have been holiday-season staples since the fourteenth century, when German towns established the first ones in honor of Advent. Across the continent today, Christmas lights blanket town squares; tents, chalets, and wooden pavilions brim with gifts; and mulled wine flows like the river each city overlooks. Here are a few to explore. Bring your appetite – and maybe an extra suitcase.
Jetting off to Europe for a holiday-themed river cruise isn’t generally a spur-of-the-moment decision: These sailings sell out fast, especially when you consider the fact that most European river ships only hold around 150 passengers. Book early and you’ll be rewarded – with more time to get excited about your upcoming trip, of course, but in many cases (including on AmaWaterways voyages), complimentary upgrades and surprise savings as well.
With expert guidance and in-depth knowledge, travel advisors can offer a wealth of knowledge and connect you with a tour company- even specific guides that are sure to be the highlight of your vacation.
From custom itineraries to peace-of-mind from start to finish- booking with a travel advisor adds value to your experience that allow you to make the most of your time traveling.
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