Magnificent Europe

Central Europe’s most enchanting?places?in one spectacular journey. What’s not to love? After exploring Prague, we bring the best of Europe to you on a cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam along the Danube, Main and Rhine. Then, finish amid the boulevards, boutiques and bistros of Paris.?

Deal Details

Travel Dates

Departures year round

Sale Ends

Dec 31, 2024

Priced From

$19,145
Central Europe’s most enchanting?places?in one spectacular journey. What’s not to love? After exploring Prague, we bring the best of Europe to you on a cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam along the Danube, Main and Rhine. Then, finish amid the boulevards, boutiques and bistros of Paris.?

Itinerary


Day 1: Arrive Prague

Arrive in Prague, the capital of Czech Republic. Set around the Vltava River, fairytale-like architecture and Prague’s stunning castle charm all who visit. Be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a welcome reception.



Stay: Three Nights, Almanac X Alcron Prague

Day 2: Prague

This morning, take in outstanding city views from the majestic Prague Castle, then stroll over the historic Charles Bridge, dating back to 1357. Marvel at the Old Town Square, once Prague’s central marketplace in medieval times. The highlight of the square is the old astronomical clock. Installed in 1410, the clock tracks the movements of the sun and the moon as well as the time. Tonight, dine at Alcron restaurant, a contemporary, fine dining restaurant known for its use of local Czech produce. With a plant-forward philosophy, the restaurant’s dishes combine rich tradition of the region with a modern twist.

Day 3: Prague

Today is set aside to enjoy a Signature Experience.



Signature Experience – Chateau Jemniste



Savour a day out at Chateau Jemniste, originally designed by the renowned Czech architect, Frances Maxmilian Kanka. Be greeted by descendants of the Czech Republic’s oldest aristocratic family. Explore the 18th-century estate on a private guided tour and soak in the spectacular Baroque architecture. Indulge in a delicious lunch before watching an awe-inspiring display as impressive birds of prey free fly during a falconry display.

Day 4: Prague, Velke Bilovice, Budapest, Embark Ship

Travel to Velke Bilovice, the largest winemaking town in the Czech Republic known for its viticulture. Glimpse the town’s many hectares of vineyards as you stop for a light lunch in a traditional restaurant. Travel onwards to the capital of Hungary, Budapest. 



Stay: 14 Nights, a Concerto River Ship

Day 5: Budapest

Enjoy a morning city tour of Budapest taking in its historic monuments. This afternoon, set sail for Vienna.

Day 6: Vienna

Enjoy a relaxing morning sailing to Vienna. On arrival, take in the city’s many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 7: Vienna

After your chosen activity this morning, we have arranged a special Signature Experience.



Freedom of Choice – Schonbrunn Palace Visit



Tour inside Schonbrunn Palace, the summer palace of the Habsburgs. Discover the apartments of former emperors and take some time to wander the immaculate grounds.



Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia



Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under Communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.



Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace



After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital.

Day 8: Durnstein, Melk

Explore the beautiful town of Durnstein before choosing your activity.



Freedom of Choice – Cruise through the Wachau Valley to Melk



Cruise through the Wachau Valley to Melk, where you’ll roam its cobblestoned lanes at your leisure.



Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Durnstein to Melk



Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Durnstein to Melk and take in the beautiful scenery of Wachau Valley along the way.

Day 9: Linz, Salzburg, Passau

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.



Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show




Be welcomed by a Jagdhornblaser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a ‘Sound of Music’ show.

Day 10: Regensburg

Discover Regensburg on your choice of activities today.



Freedom of Choice – Explore Regensburg’s World Heritage-listed City Centre



In Regensburg, set out on a guided tour to explore its atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. See such sights as the iconic Old Town Hall, the 12th-century Stone Bridge and the historic city centre.



Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial




Get active and take a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Day 11: Nuremberg

This morning, continue cruising on the Main-Danube Canal. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas. On arrival in Nuremberg, Set out on your preferred activity.



Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites




Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.



Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour



Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, the main market square and its 14th-century Gothic church.

Day 12: Bamberg

On arrival into World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another of the few German cities that wasn’t destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the River Regnitz. Otherwise, take it easy and relax on board.

Day 13: Wurzburg

Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.



Freedom of Choice – Visit the Wurzburg Residence



The immense architectural beauty of Wurzburg is on display today as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Wurzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Wurzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.



Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg



Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestoned streets and admire the pretty coloured-fronted houses as you stroll. During free time, you may wish to visit Kathe Wolfhart’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest selection of Germany Christmas decorations in the world.



Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress



Enjoy a hike to Wurzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Forstress, an imposing castle overlooking the city which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

Day 14: Miltenberg

Step ashore in Miltenberg today and set out on a guided exploration. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Featuring remarkably preserved buildings and lively town squares, this is a beautiful example of Germany’s history. Set out on a guided exploration of the town before time at leisure to explore. Sail along the Main River.

Day 15: Rudesheim

Dock in Rudesheim, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, you’ll set out on your chosen activity. Later, cruise through the Rhine Valley to Andernach, where your ship will dock overnight.



Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride



Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in the late 1880s.



Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum



Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, an eccentric and unique museum which is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.



Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar



Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.

Day 16: Andernach

Today enjoy a Signature Experience. The afternoon will be spent sailing onwards to the Netherlands.



Signature Experience – Namedy Castle



Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a 14th century residence set near the Rhine River in Germany. Go beyond the gates and wander about the rooms, hidden nooks and manicured grounds. You'll then enjoy a morning tea where a pianist playing classical music sets the mood.

Day 17: Amsterdam

How will you spend your day in Amsterdam? It’s up to you. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s farewell dinner.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise



A peaceful way to see the best of Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and admire the city’s unique architecture as you cruise the maze of World Heritage-listed canals for which the city is famous.



Freedom of Choice – Visit Zaanse Schans



Visit the typically Dutch village of Zaanse Schans, famous for its wooden windmills, traditional Dutch houses and specialty produce.

Day 18: Amsterdam, Disembark Ship, Ghent, Paris

This morning, disembark your ship for the final time in Amsterdam before travelling to Ghent. This Belgian port city is one of the best-kept secrets in Europe with its spellbinding architecture and historic old town. Here, embark on a cruise to explore its maze of canals, then enjoy a light lunch. Continue to France’s stylish capital, Paris, known for its romantic scenery, rich history, delicious cuisine and abundance of stylish shops and cafes.



Accommodation: Three Nights, Paris, Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe

Day 19: Paris, Versailles

Today, embark on an enrichening discovery of Paris, accompanied by a local expert. Discover a number of highlights from the City of Light recognisable from countless films and narratives. Stroll through the bustling Avenue des Champs-Elysees lined with large storefronts. Crowning the western end of the avenue is the Arc de Triomphe, a structure commemorating those who fought and died in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. Arguably the most iconic monument in Paris, the Eiffel Tower stands tall over the city. Discover the beauty of this iron structure, built for the world fair in the late 19th-century. Tonight, enjoy a fabulous cabaret extravaganza at the famous Moulin Rouge located in Pigalle.


Signature Experience - Lunch at Versailles


Indulge in lunch at Ore Restaurant in Versailles, created by renowned chef Alain Ducasse, then see the splendour behind Louis XIV’s transformatio

Day 20: Paris

Spend the day exploring Paris with your chosen activity.



Freedom of Choice – Culinary Walk




It’s no secret that Paris is famous for its food, but there are still plenty of culinary hidden gems throughout the city that aren’t as well-known. Follow a trail of Paris’ fine food during a culinary walk.



Freedom of Choice – Citroen 2CV Drive



Embark on a journey in a special 2CV vintage car, a stylish vehicle rich in heritage. It is a national treasure, having been first manufactured in 1948. Drive around the sparkling cityscape and Paris’ backstreets, spotting the city’s star attractions and Parisian icons in this open-top vehicle.



Freedom of Choice – Visit Montmartre and Sacre-Coeur Basilica



Soak up the Parisian atmosphere as you explore the charming hilltop district of Montmartre (the Mount of Martyrs), historically frequented by famous artists and a hub for creatives to this day. Admire the beautiful Sacre-Coeur Basilica, a stunning Roman Catholic church. Admire the spectacular interior features including the grand pipe organ. Take in the panoramic views of the city from the church’s exterior.

Day 21: Depart Paris

Your journey comes to an end today as you bid farewell to your fellow travellers and Paris with a transfer to the airport.