Grand Danube Cruise

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Grand Danube Cruise
Grand Danube Cruise
Grand Danube Cruise
New Release River Cruise Oktoberfest
Our Price From
US$6,306
Save $1,992pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
15 Days
 Cruise Starts
Giurgiu
 Cruise Finishes
Vilshofen
15 Day Grand Danube Cruise Itinerary (AmaWaterways)
Ship
Departures
Passengers
160
Crew
51
Launched
2010
Refurbished
2021
Cruise Code
BH

Overview

Journey along paths forged by conquerors, crusaders and kings through Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria and Germany. Step back in time to explore the history and mystery living in the hillsides while cruising the Danube and through the Iron Gates. Legends of all kinds are waiting to be uncovered, like Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria’s natural wonders, or the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, built into the side of a mountain showcasing well-preserved medieval frescos. Experience the Romans’ influence firsthand in Pécs, “the city of Mediterranean impressions," and through the taste read more of wine in Ilok, a center of wine production since Roman times. From imposing capitals—Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava—to towns lost in time, immerse yourself in the colorful folktales and traditions of the extraordinary people and places you visit along the way while cruising on board the incredible AmaMagna.

Itinerary

Embark the ship in Giurgiu for your Grand Danube Cruise.

Travel through the Romanian countryside to the capital of Bucharest, known as the “Little Paris of the East.” Enjoy a panoramic tour of the historic city center and its elegant architecture, followed by a visit to the Palace of the Parliament, the second largest administrative building in the world. Later in the day, visit Bulgaria's ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterwards visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • Veliko Tarnovo excursion OR Bucharest Excursion OR Ivanovo Rock Hwen Churches & Rousse Highlights

Journey along paths forged by conquerors, crusaders and kings through Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria and Germany. Step back in time to explore the history and mystery living in the hillsides while cruising the Danube and through the Iron Gates. Legends of all kinds are waiting to be uncovered, like Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria's natural wonders, or the Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, built into the side of a mountain showcasing well-preserved medieval frescos. Experience the Romans' influence firsthand in Pécs, “the city of Mediterranean impressions," and through the taste of wine in Ilok, a center of wine production since Roman times. From imposing capitals— Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava—to towns lost in time, immerse yourself in the colorful folktales and traditions of the extraordinary people and places you visit along the way while cruising on board the incredible AmaMagna.

Excursions:

  • Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour OR Banitsa pastry and yogurt making OR Vidin bike tour
  • Belogradchik Excursion OR Dos Alamos Wine Tasting

The Iron Gates are some of Europe's most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. The banks of the river dazzle with sheer-faced rocks that stretch high overhead along this natural border between Serbia and Romania. The ancient Serbian king Decebalus is proudly carved into the mountainside and always captivates travelers. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • Golubac Fortress

Explore Serbia's capital, Belgrade, on a city tour that includes the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava. Alternatively, hike to well-preserved Belgrade Fortress with its conical towers. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian plum brandy, and delicious local delights or join a guided bike tour for a more active adventure. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • “The City by Two Rivers” tour OR Belgrade Fortress hike
  • “Brandies of Belgrade” Tasting OR Belgrade bike tour

Visit Vukovar, a Croatian symbol of resistance, which you'll better understand on your city tour showcasing the Ovčara Memorial and Eltz Castle. Alternatively, choose a wine tasting in Ilok, a center of wine production since Roman times, where you'll sample its famous Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • Vukovar City tour with Eltz Castle OR Croatian wine tasting

Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohács and then visit Pécs, founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter's Basilica, the city's main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. Or choose a guided bike tour through Mohács. For wine connoisseurs, you'll want to go instead to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • Pécs excursion OR Szekszárd wine tasting OR Guided bike ride along the Danube

Visit the Royal Palace of Gödöllő, originally constructed by count Antal Grassalkovich I during the 18th century. This Baroque palace has endured several renovation and renaissance periods throughout its history, including after its elegant contents were cleared out during World War II. It once held Soviet troops, served as a home for the elderly, was a favorite holiday destination of Hungary's Queen Elisabeth (Sis) and was more recently opened as a museum. During your tour, you will visit the Queen Elisabeth exhibition and learn more about the history of the palace, as well as step inside the elegant Baroque Theatre and stables. You will also have a chance to stroll through the gardens of this stately multi-winged building. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • Pustza excursion

You cannot help but fall in love with Budapest, known as the “Queen of the Danube.” Your city tour begins with a visit to the Great Market Hall. The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. Alternatively, hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city.

Excursions:

  • “Queen of the Danube” tour OR Castle hill hike

Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title “Coronation City of Kings,” as you'll discover during your walking tour. Or join a special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • “Coronation City” walking tour OR Tastes of Bratislava OR Bratislava Castle hike

The “City of Waltzes” is a treasure trove and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in the UNESCO-designated historic city center and visit St. Stephen's Cathedral. For a more active exploration, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time exploring this iconic city even more or visit Schnobrunn Palace & Gardens. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • “Imperial Vienna” tour OR Vienna City Tour by Bike
  • Free time OR Schonbrunn Palace & Gardens

Be treated to several choices of excursions. Enjoy a walking tour through the medieval cobblestone streets reveals 16th-century townhouses and wine taverns. Marvel at the luminous blue facade of the Baroque Stiftskirche, Dürnstein's famed church cloister tower, considered the most beautiful of its kind in all of Austria. For a more culinary-focused experience, you can visit a local vineyard where you will be treated to the regions finest apricot products. Or hike the trail up to the ruins of Durnstein Fortress, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, and where you'll find spectacular views of the valley, river and village below. You can also choose to go on a guided bike tour to Durnstein. Later in the day, head up to the Sun Deck for panoramic views as you unwind with a scenic cruise through the Strudengau and UNESCO-designated Wachau valleys. Once arrived at Spitz, visit the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey. For an active adventure, enjoy a guided bike tour to Emmersdorf or a hike through Spitz to Rotes Tor. In the evening, be treated to an intimate and palate-pleasing wine tasting in Spitz. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • Dürnstein Walking Tour OR Apricots & Sweets tasting OR Dürnstein Fortress hike OR Krems to Dürnstein bike tour /dd>
  • Scenic cruising through Strudengau and UNESCO Wachau Valley
  • Melk Abbey visit OR Spitz hike OR Spitz Bike Tour
  • Spitz Wine Evening

The ship arrives in Linz where you'll have several choices of excursions. Opt for a full-day excursion to Salzburg where you'll tour the historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market. En route to Salzburg, stop at Mondsee, home of the Basilica St. Michael. Or join a morning walking tour through the old city center of Linz and by the Mozart House; or go on a bike tour of the city's famed “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. During the afternoon, for guests who have not chosen the full-day Salzburg tour, visit the charming mountain town of Český Krumlov – a guest favorite, located just over the Czech-Austrian border. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • “UNESCO City of Media Arts” walking tour OR "Cultural Mile” bike tour OR Full-day Salzburg excursion
  • Český Krumlov excursion

Discover the city of Passau in one of three ways. Enjoy a walking tour and marvel at Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen's Cathedral. Or choose between a guided bike tour along the Danube River, or a guided hike up to the Veste Oberhaus fortress. Later, cruise to Vilshofen, where you will be treated to a festive Oktoberfest celebration – an AmaWaterways exclusive. (B/L/D)

Excursions:

  • “City of Three Rivers” walking tour OR Passau Castle hike OR Passau bike tour to Erlau
  • Exclusive Oktoberfest celebration

Bid farewell to Vilshofen and prepare for your flight home. (B)

Life Onboard AmaBella

AmaBella
AmaBella

Onboard AmaBella you'll find a massage and hair salon, fitness room, specialty coffee station, gift shop, and a heated pool on the Sun Deck. Read more

All Excursions Included
All Excursions Included

Our guests have different tastes, so we offer a variety of included shore excursions so you can tailor your experience in every port of call. Read more

The Luxury Of Space
The Luxury Of Space

Sophisticated, contemporary and elegantly appointed, your spacious stateroom serves as your personal oasis for rejuvenation. Read more

Award-Winning Dining
Award-Winning Dining

All onboard dining, as well as unlimited wine and beer with lunch and dinner, is included so you can indulge whenever and however you'd like. Read more

Feels Like Family
Feels Like Family

Our staff are committed to the happiness of our guests and cruise after cruise they tell us of their wonderful experiences the've had with us. Read more

Active Ways To Discover
Active Ways To Discover

All of our guided hikes and bike tours are included in the cruise fare so you have more choices when it comes to how you prefer to explore. Read more

Download Brochure

AmaWaterways Heart of the River (2026) Brochure

AmaWaterways Heart of the River (2026)

Step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences, where your journey is our passion. Allow us to share villages that time forgot. Walk along cobblestone streets filled with delights. Pedal through historic town squares. And revel in moments that last a lifetime. When you step aboard AmaWaterways, each day brings a genuine smile that warms the heart. more Every river a new culture that inspires, and each course a moment to savor and share. Experience these wonders and delights with AmaWaterways, the Heart of the River.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

Cabin Layout Options:

Select Cabin Preference:

From $6,306
From $8,322
From $12,354
Monday 23 Mar 2026 23 Mar 26 Giurgiu
Monday 06 Apr 2026 06 Apr 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaVerde
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Monday 06 Apr 2026 06 Apr 26 Giurgiu
Monday 20 Apr 2026 20 Apr 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaBella
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$7,506
Save $792
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Monday 20 Apr 2026 20 Apr 26 Giurgiu
Monday 04 May 2026 04 May 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaVerde
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Sunday 24 May 2026 24 May 26 Giurgiu
Sunday 07 Jun 2026 07 Jun 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaMagna
Itinerary Variation
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Monday 01 Jun 2026 01 Jun 26 Giurgiu
Monday 15 Jun 2026 15 Jun 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaBella
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$8,514
Save $584
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Monday 29 Jun 2026 29 Jun 26 Giurgiu
Monday 13 Jul 2026 13 Jul 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaBella
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Monday 13 Jul 2026 13 Jul 26 Giurgiu
Monday 27 Jul 2026 27 Jul 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaVerde
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$7,650
Save $1,048
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Monday 27 Jul 2026 27 Jul 26 Giurgiu
Monday 10 Aug 2026 10 Aug 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaBella
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$7,506
Save $1,292
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Monday 10 Aug 2026 10 Aug 26 Giurgiu
Monday 24 Aug 2026 24 Aug 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaVerde
Exclusive Savings
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Monday 24 Aug 2026 24 Aug 26 Giurgiu
Monday 07 Sep 2026 07 Sep 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaBella
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$8,850
Save $348
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Monday 07 Sep 2026 07 Sep 26 Giurgiu
Monday 21 Sep 2026 21 Sep 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaVerde
River View
Sold Out
Unavailable
Sold Out
Monday 02 Nov 2026 02 Nov 26 Giurgiu
Monday 16 Nov 2026 16 Nov 26 Vilshofen
Details
AmaVerde
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,306
Save $1,992
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by AmaWaterways. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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