Detailed Itinerary: Amsterdam to Bucharest

Program offerings are subject to change.

Skip to Bucharest to Amsterdam itinerary

Day 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands (Embarkation)

Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a cruise representative and transferred to the ship.

Day 2: Amsterdam

Enjoy the luxury of a full day in the “Venice of the North,” starting with a delightful tour of the Straat Museum. Afterwards, explore the city's canals by boat.

Day 3: Cologne

Enjoy a delightful tour of Cologne’s Old Town, where three medieval gates remain standing, as does the old city hall with its stunning Renaissance façade. Wander through the historical center and take in its charming atmosphere and narrow alleyways flanked by old houses. No matter how you choose to explore Old Town, you’ll also have ample free time to explore the city on your own.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Day 4: Cruising the Romantic Rhine River, Rüdesheim

Experience the most spectacular scenery on the Rhine this morning as you cruise past the famous Middle Rhine Valley. Later, experience Germany’s fabled Rheingau in one of two ways today. Take in spectacular views of the region’s famous vineyards from the perspective of an aerial cable car, or venture within an atmospheric medieval monastery and taste the Rieslings made on site. Like many cities along the Rhine, Rüdesheim has a lengthy history that stretches back to Roman times. These days, the town is best known for its narrow avenue of shops and wine bars called the Drosselgasse and its impressive Niederwald Monument

Choice of Rüdesheim wine village and panoramas of Niederwald Monument -or- Abbey Eberbach medieval monastery tour with Riesling tasting

Day 5: Frankfurt (Heidelberg)

Vibrant Frankfurt, often referred to as the “Mainhattan” of Europe, boasts world-class museums, soaring skyscrapers, cozy wine taverns and lovely parks. Choose a brief tour that gives you an overview of this major European financial and trade center. Alternatively, visit romantic Heidelberg and its Renaissance castle.

Choice of Frankfurt walking tour with local treats -or- Heidelberg with castle visit (Note: Lunch is not included with the full-day Heidelberg tour)

Day 6: Wertheim, Cruising the Main River

Vibrant Frankfurt, often referred to as the “Mainhattan” of Europe, boasts world-class museums, soaring skyscrapers, cozy wine taverns and lovely parks. Choose a brief tour that gives you an overview of this major European financial and trade center. Alternatively, visit romantic Heidelberg and its Renaissance castle. 

Choice of “Let's Go” Wertheim bicycle tour -or- Wertheim walking tour with local treats

Day 7: Würzburg

Your ship will dock in the charming Franconian town of Würzburg, where you can visit the extraordinary Würzburg Residence, one of the most opulent baroque palaces in Europe

Featured Excursion: Würzburg Residence visitwith Court Gardens

Day 8: Cruising the Main River, Kitzingen (Rothenburg)

Step into a fairytale version of the Middle Ages in Rothenburg and visit a medieval castle that’s been described as a miniature Versailles. Spend a relaxing day onboard as your ship wends its way along the Main River between Würzburg and Bamberg. It’s something of a truism to say that this route takes you from wine to beer, and you’ll see the transition as you sail past the vineyard-covered slopes around Würzburg toward Bavaria’s famous beer-brewing center, Bamberg. Along the way, you’ll pass delightful little villages and romantic castle ruins, drift under lovely old bridges, and have plenty of time to observe the fascinating variety of vessels plying the river, from heavily loaded barges to jaunty little pleasure craft.

Featured Excursion: Fairytale Rothenburg

Day 9: Bamberg

Your floating boutique hotel takes you to Bamberg today, a well-preserved town that offers a fascinating glimpse of medieval times. Explore the city on foot or opt to head deeper into the Franconian countryside to experience an authentic slice of rural life—including a tractor ride. Like Rome, the city is built on seven hills—but in Bamberg, a church tops each one.

You’ll spend the rest of the day on the peaceful Main River, cruising past quiet Franconian hamlets and picturesque countryside. It’s the perfect time to indulge in the many comforts of your luxury ship while watching some of Europe’s loveliest scenery glide by.

Choice of Bamberg walking discovery tour -or- Exclusive Franconian “Village Day”

Day 10: Nuremberg, Cruising the Main-Danube Canal

Head up to the top deck or find a seat with a good view—you won’t want to miss seeing the ship navigate its way through a marvel of modern engineering, the Main-Danube Canal. A formidable set of locks, 16 in all, lifts your ship to the crest of the European “continental divide.” Arrive in the archetypal medieval German city of Nuremberg. Nuremberg is justifiably famous for its gingerbread and pocket watches, and it was also the site of some key moments in 20th-century history. You’ll choose between two memorable ways of exploring this exceptional city. You can join a tour of the pencil manufacturer Faber-Castell's factory and expansive headquarters, or you can accompany a local expert to the city’s most important WWII sites, including the enormous Nazi Party Rally Grounds—the actual site of the Nazi Party rallies.

Choice of Faber-Castell Visit -or- Nuremberg City Tour with WW II Rally Grounds and Documentation Center Visits

Day 11: Regensburg

Bavaria’s first capital, Regensburg, owes its impressive historical lineage and rich architectural heritage to 600 years as a Free Imperial City, a fact recognized by UNESCO in 2006. Today, you’ll discover how the beautifully preserved medieval city coexists with a vibrant modern urban center.

Choice of Regensburg Walking tour -or- From Hops Field to Beer Stein" Farm Visit

Day 12: Passau - Crossing the Danube River

Located at the confluence of three rivers—the Danube, Inn and Ilz— Passau is well known for its ornate baroque cathedral. Today, the city is unusually well preserved, having been spared the brunt of Allied bombing during WWII, as you’ll see on your walking tour.

Choice of Passau walking tour -or- Lets Go: Bicycle Ride along the Inn River

Day 13: Cruising the Wachau Valley, Weissenkirchen (Weissenkirchen or Melk)

Named for its white church, Weissenkirchen may very well be the prettiest village in the Wachau Valley. A local expert will show you around and introduce you to some regional delicacies, including a wine tasting. Prefer to go for baroque? Visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey and its extraordinarily opulent library. Later, you can stretch your legs with a vineyard hike. 

Choice of Melk Abbey with library visit -or- Weissenkirchen Village Walk with Wine Tasting

Let's Go: Vineyard Hike

Day 14: Vienna

Vienna is a cultural treasure trove revered for its art and music (and sinfully rich pastries). Begin your day at the Vienna Art History Museum, then embark on a tour of the city's imperial highlights.

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Featured Excursions: “Morning with the Masters” at the Vienna Art History Museum -or- Vienna Imperial City highlights

Day 15: Budapest

Called the “Queen of the Danube,” in part because of the way the city hugs the banks of the river, Budapest is an enchanting city that vibrantly mixes East and West, medieval and modern. Made up of two parts— Buda (the hills) and Pest (the flatlands)—and divided by the Danube, Hungary’s capital presents an array of architectural styles that reveal its long and varied history. You’ll have two enticing ways to experience the city—a panoramic guided tour aboard a motorcoach with a visit to the Parliament, or discover the Budapest that locals love on a special walking tour of the city’s most important landmarks.

Choice of Budapest panoramic highlights with Parliament visit -or- Budapest Walk with Local Treats

Day 16: Budapest

Other passengers are heading home today, but you are only halfway through your marvelous holiday. Enjoy a day of leisure exploring beautiful and historic Budapest.

Featured Excursion: Unicum Distillery Visit

Day 17: Budapest - Cruising the Danube River

Located on opposite sides of the Danube, Buda and Pest each have their own distinctive character and allure. Explore this dynamic and multifaceted city with your choice of excursions—you can see it from a local’s perspective on our walking tour, or cover more ground with a panoramic tour. Vibrant Budapest, Hungary’s capital, offers an enchanting combination of East and West.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Choice of Budapest Communist Tour -or- Budapest Panoramic Highlights with Synagogue Visit

Day 18: Cruising the Danube River - Vukovar (Osijek)

Welcome to Croatia! This ancient country, which has made a remarkable recovery from a brutal civil war, is noted for its beautiful countryside and thriving folk traditions, as well as simple, delicious local rustic food.

Choice of Vučedol Culture Museum and Lunch at a Family Restaurant -or- Vučedol Culture Museum and Home Hosted Lunch

Day 19: Belgrade

Belgrade, the modern-day capital of Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities, dating back some 7,000 years. Signs of its tumultuous history are visible everywhere, juxtaposed with the city’s vibrant modern-day present.

Featured Excursion: Nights Out: Saint Sava Concert and Wine Tasting

Choice of Belgrade city tour with visit to the Royal Grounds of Karadjordjevic Dynasty Palace -or- "Let's Go" "I Bike Belgrade" tour

Day 20: Golubac - Cruising the Iron Gates

Head ashore to explore a Paleolithic site and an extraordinarily well-preserved medieval fortress. All along the way, history lines the banks of the river. Keep an eye out for Trajan’s Plaque, which the ancient Romans erected to commemorate the road they anchored in the steep cliffs above the water, and Golubac Castle, built in the 14th century and attacked successively by the Serbs, Magyars, and Turks.

Unwind onboard as you cruise the breathtaking Iron Gates, an 83-mile-long (134-kilometer-long) stretch of scenic gorges that were cut through the Carpathian and Balkan mountains over eons by the Danube River. These gorges, which act as a natural border between Serbia and Romania, are among the most dramatic and beautiful sights in all of Europe. This was one of the swiftest and most dangerous stretches of the river before two dams were built: Iron Gate I and Iron Gate II. Construction on the dams began in 1964 and took 20 years to complete; they have dramatically altered the area’s landscape, raising the water level by 114 feet (35 meters) and drowning several islands and villages.

Featured Excursion: Lepenski Vir archaeological Park and Golubac Castle

Day 21: Cruising the Danube River - Vidin

Vidin is a port town on the Danube that once played an important role in medieval Bulgarian politics, as the great fortress Baba Vida attests. It’s your base for an unusual excursion today—a visit to the fascinating Belogradchik rock formations. Or you can head to a local’s home to bake a traditional Bulgarian dish called banitza.

Choice of Belogradchik Red rock Valley -or- Banitza Home Baking Experience

Day 22: Rousse (Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi-or- Rousse and Ivanovo)

Bulgaria’s foremost Danube port, Ruse is sometimes called “Little Vienna” for its elegant 19th-century mansions and public buildings.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Choice of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi with Authentic Bulgarian Lunch -or- Ruse Walking Tour with Ivanovo and Basarbovo Monasteries

Day 23: Giurgiu (Disembarkation) - transfer to Bucharest

This morning, you’ll disembark the ship in Giurgiu and drive through the countryside to Bucharest, where you’ll enjoy a panoramic city tour and a visit to People’s Palace. Tonight, you’ll relax in the comfort of a luxury hotel located in the heart of the city, Romania’s capital and its cultural and economic center.

Featured Excursion: Bucharest Communist Tour with People's Palace

Day 24: Bucharest

Get to know the bustling heart of Romania's capital city with a full day to explore Bucharest on your own.

Day 25: Bucharest

Check out of your hotel this morning. If your cruise/tour package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport for your flight home.

Departures & Pricing

Detailed Itinerary: Bucharest to Amsterdam

Program offerings are subject to change.

Skip to Amsterdam to Bucahrest itinerary

Day 1: Bucharest

Arrive at Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport. If your cruise/tour package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a cruise representative and transferred to the hotel.

Day 2: Bucharest

Get to know the bustling heart of Romania's capital city with a full day to explore Bucharest on your own.

Day 3: Bucharest - transfer to Giurgiu (Embarkation)

Bucharest is a fascinating combination of Communist grandiosity, elegant French-influenced 19th-century buildings and surprising survivors dating from the 1500s. Today in Bucharest you’ll enjoy a panoramic city tour and a visit to People’s Palace. Later, you'll travel via motorcoach to Giurgiu, where your ship awaits.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Featured Excursion: Bucharest Communist Tour with People's Palace

Day 6: Ruse

Bulgaria’s foremost Danube port, Ruse is sometimes called “Little Vienna” for its elegant 19th-century mansions and public buildings.

Choice of Veliko Tarnovoand Arbanassi with Authentic Bulgarian Lunch -or- Ruse Walking Tour with Ivanovo and Basarbovo Monasteries

Day 5: Cruising the Danube River - Vidin

Vidin is a port town on the Danube that once played an important role in medieval Bulgarian politics, as the great fortress Baba Vida attests. It’s your base for an unusual excursion today—a visit to the fascinating Belogradchik rock formations. Or you can head to a local’s home to bake a traditional Bulgarian dish called banitza.

Choice of Belogradchik Red Rock Valley -or- Banitza Home Baking Experience

Day 6: Cruising the Iron Gates - Golubac

Today’s main attraction will be the spectacular scenery along the Danube, as you cruise a stretch of gorges known as the Iron Gates. Later, head ashore to explore a Paleolithic site and an extraordinarily well-preserved medieval fortress. All along the way, history lines the banks of the river. Keep an eye out for Trajan’s Plaque, which the ancient Romans erected to commemorate the road they anchored in the steep cliffs above the water, and Golubac Castle, built in the 14th century and attacked successively by the Serbs, Magyars, and Turks.

Unwind onboard as you cruise the breathtaking Iron Gates, an 83-mile-long (134-kilometer-long) stretch of scenic gorges that were cut through the Carpathian and Balkan mountains over eons by the Danube River. These gorges, which act as a natural border between Serbia and Romania, are among the most dramatic and beautiful sights in all of Europe. This was one of the swiftest and most dangerous stretches of the river before two dams were built: Iron Gate I and Iron Gate II. Construction on the dams began in 1964 and took 20 years to complete; they have dramatically altered the area’s landscape, raising the water level by 114 feet (35 meters) and drowning several islands and villages.

Featured Excursion: Lepenski Vir archaeological park and Golubac Castle

Day 7: Belgrade

Belgrade, the modern-day capital of Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities, dating back some 7,000 years. Signs of its tumultuous history are visible everywhere, juxtaposed with the city’s vibrant modern-day present.

Featured Excursion: Nights Out: Saint Sava Concert and Wine Tasting

Choice of Belgrade City Tour with visit to the Royal Grounds of Karadjordjevic Dynasty Palace -or- "Let's Go" "I Bike Belgrade" tour

Day 8: Vukovar (Osijek) - Cruising the Danube River

Welcome to Croatia! This ancient country, which has made a remarkable recovery from a brutal civil war, is noted for its beautiful countryside and thriving folk traditions, as well as simple, delicious local rustic food. You’ll dock in Vukovar, Croatia’s biggest port, at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka rivers.

Choice of Vučedol Culture Museum and Lunch at a Family Restaurant -or- Vučedol Culture Museum and Home Hosted Lunch

Day 9: Cruising the Danube River - Budapest

Located on opposite sides of the Danube, Buda and Pest each have their own distinctive character and allure. Explore this dynamic and multifaceted city with your choice of excursions—you can see it from a local’s perspective on our walking tour, or cover more ground with a panoramic tour. Vibrant Budapest, Hungary’s capital, offers an enchanting combination of East and West.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Choice of Budapest Communist Tour -or- Budapest Panoramic Highlights with Synagogue Visit

Day 10: Budapest

Other passengers are heading home today, but you are only halfway through your marvelous holiday. Enjoy a day of leisure exploring beautiful and historic Budapest.

Featured Excursion: Unicum Distillery Visit

Day 11: Budapest

Called the “Queen of the Danube,” in part because of the way the city hugs the banks of the river, Budapest is an enchanting city that vibrantly mixes East and West, medieval and modern. Made up of two parts— Buda (the hills) and Pest (the flatlands)—and divided by the Danube, Hungary’s capital presents an array of architectural styles that reveal its long and varied history. You’ll have two enticing ways to experience the city—a panoramic guided tour aboard a motorcoach with a visit to the Parliament, or discover the Budapest that locals love on a special walking tour of the city’s most important landmarks.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Choice of Budapest Panoramic Highlights with Parliament Visit -or- Budapest Walk with Local Treats

Day 12: Cruising the Danube River

Today is your day to relax onboard, enjoying the luxuries of your river cruise ship while soaking in the spectacular scenery all around you as your ship heads for Vienna. Come up to the Sun Deck to admire the city’s landmarks strung along the riverbanks.

Day 13: Vienna

Vienna is a cultural treasure trove revered for its art and music (and sinfully rich pastries). Begin your day at the Vienna Art History Museum, then embark on a tour of the city's imperial highlights. 

Featured Excursions: “Morning with the Masters” at the Vienna Art History Museum, Vienna Imperial City Highlights

Day 14: Cruising the Wachau Valley - Weissenkirchen Melk)

Awaken to the spectacular scenery of the Wachau Valley, one of the most beautiful stretches of river landscape in all of Europe. Named for its white church, Weissenkirchen may very well be the prettiest village in the Wachau Valley. A local expert will show you around and introduce you to some regional delicacies, including a wine tasting. Prefer to go for baroque? Visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey and its extraordinarily opulent library. Later, you can stretch your legs with a vineyard hike.

Featured Excursion: LEt's Go: Vineyard Hike

Choice of WeissenkirchenVillage Walk with Wine Tasting -or- Melk Abbey with Library Visit

Day 15: Engalhartszell - Cruising the Danube River - Passau

Just before reaching Passau, the ship will pass through the famous Schlögener Schlinge—a “gooseneck” or hairpin turn in the Danube. Located at the confluence of three rivers—the Danube, Inn and Ilz— Passau is well known for its ornate baroque cathedral. Today, the city is unusually well preserved, having been spared the brunt of Allied bombing during WWII, as you’ll see on your walking tour.

Choice of Passau Walking tour -or-Let's Go: Bicycle Ride Along the Inn River

Day 16: Regensburg

Bavaria’s first capital, Regensburg, owes its impressive historical lineage and rich architectural heritage to 600 years as a Free Imperial City, a fact recognized by UNESCO in 2006. Today, you’ll discover how the beautifully preserved medieval city coexists with a vibrant modern urban center.

Choice of Regensburg Walking Tour -or- From Hops Field to Beer Stein" Farm Visit

Day 17: Cruising the Main-Danube Canal - Nuremberg

Arrive in the archetypal medieval German city of Nuremberg. Nuremberg is justifiably famous for its gingerbread and pocket watches, and it was also the site of some key moments in 20th-century history. You’ll choose between two memorable ways of exploring this exceptional city. You can join a tour of the pencil manufacturer Faber-Castell's factory and expansive headquarters, or you can accompany a local expert to the city’s most important WWII sites, including the enormous Nazi Party Rally Grounds—the actual site of the Nazi Party rallies.

Onboard: This morning, head up to the top deck or find a seat with a good view—you won’t want to miss seeing the ship navigate its way through a marvel of modern engineering, the Main-Danube Canal. A formidable set of locks, 16 in all, lifts your ship to the crest of the European “continental divide.”

Choice of Faber-Castell Visit -or- Nuremberg city Tour with WWII Rally Grounds and Documentation Center Visit

Day 18: Bamberg - Cruising the Main River

Your floating boutique hotel takes you to Bamberg today, a well-preserved town that offers a fascinating glimpse of medieval times. Explore the city on foot or opt to head deeper into the Franconian countryside to experience an authentic slice of rural life—including a tractor ride. Like Rome, the city is built on seven hills—but in Bamberg, a church tops each one.

Your floating boutique hotel takes you to Bamberg today, a well-preserved town that offers a fascinating glimpse of medieval times. Explore the city on foot or opt to head deeper into the Franconian countryside to experience an authentic slice of rural life—including a tractor ride. Like Rome, the city is built on seven hills—but in Bamberg, a church tops each one.

Choice of Bamberg Walking Tour -or- Exclusive Franconian “Village Day”

Day 19: Würzburg (Rothenburg)

Your ship will dock in the charming Franconian town of Würzburg, where you can visit the extraordinary Würzburg Residence, one of the most opulent baroque palaces in Europe.

Featured Excursions: Fairytale Rothenburg; Würzburg Residence Visit with Court Gardens

Day 20: Wertheim

After today, you may never eat a pretzel again without thinking of the town of Wertheim. You’ll meet one of Germany’s best pretzel makers, as well as the owner of a historic wine estate. If you’re more in the mood for a scenic bike ride, you are welcome to do that as well.. 

Choice of Wertheim Walk with Local Treats -or- Let's Go: Wertheim Bicycle Tour

Day 21: Frankfurt (Heidelberg)

Frankfurt is known as the “Mainhattan” of Europe due to its profusion of bankers and soaring skyscrapers, which coexist with the city’s traditional Old Town architecture. Choose a brief tour that gives you an overview of this major European financial and trade center. Alternatively, visit romantic Heidelberg and its Renaissance castle

Choice of Frankfurt Walking Tour with Local Treats -or- Heidelberg Castle Visit

Day 22: Rüdesheim - Cruising the romantic Rhine River

Experience Germany’s fabled Rheingau in one of two ways today. Take in spectacular views of the region’s famous vineyards from the perspective of an aerial cable car, or venture within an atmospheric medieval monastery and taste the Rieslings made on site. The town is best known for its narrow avenue of shops and wine bars called the Drosselgasse. Experience the most spectacular scenery on the Rhine later in the afternoon as you cruise past the famous Middle Rhine Valley.

Choice of Rüdesheim Wine Village and Panoramas of Niederwald Monument (mid-May through late October) -or- Abbey Eberbach Medieval Monastery Tour with Riesling Tasting

Day 23: Cologne

Enjoy a delightful tour of Cologne’s Old Town, where three medieval gates remain standing, as does the old city hall with its stunning Renaissance façade. Wander through the historical center and take in its charming atmosphere and narrow alleyways flanked by old houses. No matter how you choose to explore Old Town, you’ll also have ample free time to explore the city on your own.

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening. 

Featured Excursion: Cologne Walking Tour

Day 24: Amsterdam

Enjoy the luxury of a full day in the “Venice of the North,” starting with a delightful tour of the Straat Museum. Afterwards, explore the city's canals by boat.

Featured Excursion: Straat Museum Visit with Canal Cruise

Day 25: Amsterdam (Disembarkation)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for your flight home.

Departures & Pricing

Advisements:

• A valid passport is required for travel. Passports must be valid at least 6 months after the last day of travel.
• Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
• For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, the cruise operator and the Captain of the ship reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise .
• Travel Protection is recommended. Click here for more information.

Prices Include:

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