Please note the tour price reflected on the brochure is subject to change. Due to seasonality, and taxes prices of the tour are subject to change without due notice. Please consult with the operator directly for the recent price.
Amsterdam to Budapest by Riverboat - Southbound 2022
Overview
Highlights (Bullets)
- Cruise along the River Danube from Budapest to Amsterdam on an amazing journey past grand cathedrals
- medieval monasteries
- castles and vineyards
- including a once-in-a-decade visit to Floriade
- the 'world's fair' of horticultural exhibitions. Pass through five countries including the Netherlands
- Germany
- Austria
- Slovakia
- and Hungary
- and explore legendary cities such as Amsterdam
- Vienna
- Köln
- Nürnberg
- Bratislava and Budapest. Tauck's all-included private shore excursions take you to many UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- including the historic districts of Budapest
- Vienna
- and Bamberg
- and the Wachau and Rhine valleys. In Vienna
- take your choice of visits to Schönbrunn Palace or the Sisi Museum at the Hofburg
- and attend a grand Imperial Evening in a traditional palace. In Amsterdam
- tour the famed Rijksmuseum. Visit Köln Cathedral
- Melk Abbey
- medieval towns like Regensburg
- Budapest's Heroes' Square and much more!
Short Description
Take an amazing journey past ancient castles and soaring cathedrals, taking in great cities including Vienna, Köln, Nürnberg and Bratislava – and revered UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Schönbrunn Palace and Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral).
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive Amsterdam
Tour begins: 5:00 PM, Amsterdam. A transfer is included from Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport or Central Station directly to your riverboat. Enjoy a welcome briefing and a leisurely dinner as you settle into your floating hotel for a memorable two-week-cruise on the Main, Rhine and Danube Rivers.
MEALS : D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Amsterdam, Netherlands
Day 2 Discovering Floriade
As a special Dutch treat included on this river cruise, visit Floriade 2022, "the World's Fair of horticultural shows." Explore an international horticultural wonderland that celebrates Green Cities of the Future on 148 acres of land repurposed and reclaimed from the sea for a future rich in sustainability, greenery, food, energy and healthy living. Featuring four themed districts connected by bridges, walkways, gondolas and trains, this once in a decade exposition showcases green-themed, flower-filled exhibitions from more than 40 countries, along with cultural entertainment, art and cuisine that make it fun for everyone. Truly an energizing experience! Return to the ship in the afternoon; following dinner, chart a course to Germany.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Amsterdam, Netherlands
Day 3 A blend of modern and ancient history in Köln
After a morning of cruising and lunch aboard the riverboat, your explorations continue in Köln (Cologne), the oldest city in Germany. A guided walking tour of city sights includes a visit to twin-spired Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), boasting one of the world's largest church façades; it is one of Europe's most beloved Gothic cathedrals. You'll have some free time to wander through Cathedral Square and the Hohe Strasse pedestrian area in the afternoon. Join us tonight for a reception and a chef's signature dinner followed by an onboard performance by local musicians.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Köln, Germany
Day 4 Cruising to Rüdesheim & music machines
The perfect Rhine cruise... glide along the river until early afternoon, and relax as your Tauck Director shares a tale or two during the cruise through the scenic – and literally legendary – Lorelei Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in Rüdesheim, where you have a choice of two excursions; on one, an entertaining lunch in a local German restaurant with an old-world ambiance precedes a visit to Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett, an eclectic collection of mechanical musical instruments housed in a 15th-century castle in Rüdesheim. On the other, take a bike ride along the banks of the river Rhine. Each choice is followed by free time to enjoy as you wish. Walk back to the ship or ride the mini train. Back aboard the riverboat this evening, enjoy dinner while cruising the Rhine.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Rüdesheim, Germany
Day 5 A full day cruising the Main
Enjoy the views as your Rhine cruise continues into the Main River, for a full day of cruising through scenic valleys studded with castles, cathedrals, and fortified towns. Enjoy a Bavarian-themed dinner aboard the riverboat tonight.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
Day 6 Rothenburg or Würzburg, plus a wine tasting
Spend the morning cruising and have lunch aboard the riverboat before arriving in Würzburg. Upon arrival, visit the town's 18th-century Residenz – a lavish Baroque palace where the town's prince bishops once lived, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site – and sample some excellent Franconian wines in the wine cellar (Hoffskeller). Then you'll have two choices of sightseeing. On one, explore Würzburg's Old Town with a local guide; tour more of the Residenz (it was built and decorated by an international team of architects, painters, and sculptors); see the ornate Alte Mainbrücke (a bridge over the River Main); and spend some time on your own. Alternatively, depart on an excursion to the nearby town of Rothenburg; nestled on Germany's "Romantic Road," it lives up to its reputation as Europe's "most perfect fairy-tale town." View its Gothic cathedral, towered walls and gabled houses on a walking tour, and enjoy some time at leisure. Both groups will return to the riverboat for dinner aboard ship.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Wurzburg, Germany
Day 7 River cruising along the Main to Bamberg
Your riverboat cruises along the Main to the Bavarian town of Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated atop seven hills. You have a choice between discovering the town's lovely gardens, medieval architecture and 13th-century Gothic cathedral with its four imposing towers on a guided walking tour of Old Town (with time afterwards to explore this charming town on your own); or embarking on a bicycling excursion (due to the terrain, this activity is recommended for fit and experienced cyclists only). Enjoy dinner back aboard the riverboat this evening.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Bamberg, Germany
Day 8 Historic Nürnberg & the Main-Danube Canal
Arrive this morning in historic Nürnberg for a walking tour through Nürnberg's medieval ramparts to the Imperial Castle and the old city; view the Courthouse and other sites associated with World War II and its aftermath. Your riverboat negotiates the Main-Danube Canal today, which ultimately links the North Sea with the Black Sea – and which you'll learn all about from a local expert during your transit. The idea goes back as far as Charlemagne, but wasn't realized until this canal was completed in the 1990s; pass through 16 locks as the waterway traverses the mountains. Have dinner aboard the riverboat this evening.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Nürnberg, Germany
Day 9 A visit to Regensburg mixes ancient times and today
With its roots as a Roman encampment on the Danube, the quintessential Bavarian town of Regensburg is home to more than 1,400 original historic buildings. Walking here is a delight and is the only way to view the sights up-close. A local guide will lead the way as you see the town's 12th-century Steinerne Brücke (Germany's oldest surviving stone bridge), the 15th-century Altes Rathaus (Town Hall), the towering Dom St. Peter, and the remains of the Roman wall. Visit the princely house of Thurn und Taxis on a guided tour, followed by free time. Enjoy an onboard musical performance by a local quartet before your ship sets off for Passau.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Regensburg, Germany
Day 10 Explore Baroque Passau and cruise the Danube
The riverboat docks in the port city of Passau, dating way back to Roman times. Today, you have the choice of a walking tour revealing the Baroque treasures of this lovely riverside town, known for its stained glass and its many churches – including St. Stephan's Cathedral, home to the largest pipe organ outside of the U.S., and the biggest cathedral organ in the world (inside cathedral visit may not be available on all departures); a cycling excursion around Passau, suitable for more experienced riders; or a full-day excursion to the lovely Austrian city of Salzburg, birthplace of W.A. Mozart (and setting of The Sound of Music). Back aboard the riverboat this afternoon and evening, listen to commentary from your Tauck Director as you continue your cruise, bound for Melk, Austria. Tonight, enjoy a musical performance by a classical trio.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Passau, Germany
Day 11 Melk Abbey & a Grand Evening in Vienna
Your next destination is the town of Melk, Austria, where you'll step back in time on a guided tour of its 900-year-old Benedictine Abbey, perched on a rocky outcrop above the river. Inside this Baroque masterpiece are fine frescoes, early manuscripts, and a high altar. Back aboard the riverboat, enjoy views of castles, vineyards, small towns, monasteries and medieval ruins while cruising through the Wachau Valley toward the magnificent Austrian capital city of Vienna. Tonight, a Tauck Exclusive – a private, gala evening in the beautiful Baroque Palais Pallavicini in the heart of the city, featuring a sumptuous dinner and live entertainment – just might sweep you off your feet!
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Vienna, Austria
Day 12 An "Imperial" day in Vienna
Get an overview of Vienna, Austria's capital and one of Europe's greatest cities, with a morning sightseeing tour of this historic former capital of the Habsburg Empire. Take your choice of a tour of Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs' vast "summer residence" built to rival Versailles, or a guided visit to the Sisi Museum and the amazing Imperial Apartments inside the Hofburg, the Habsburg family's former royal palace that today is the official residence of Austria's president. Explore the city as you wish this afternoon, or return to the riverboat; dinner is aboard ship tonight.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Vienna, Austria
Day 13 Across the centuries in Bratislava, Slovakia
Depart Vienna after breakfast, and spend the morning cruising to Slovakia. Arrive early afternoon in Bratislava, capital of Slovakia, where 17 centuries of history are chronicled on a walking tour led by a local guide. Highlights include Baroque palaces from the Habsburg era, St. Martin's Cathedral and more, and a visit to Old Town Hall. This evening, enjoy dinner aboard the riverboat followed by onboard Slovakian entertainment by local performers in the lounge; set off for Budapest tonight.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Bratislava, Slovakia
Day 14 Both sides of remarkable Budapest
Tauck's memorable Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise arrives at your final destination – Budapest, Hungary's remarkable capital. Standing on opposite banks of the Danube, Budapest's two distinct sections – Buda and Pest – were once independent cities. Discover both on a day of sightseeing that includes views of patriotic Heroes' Square in Pest, dominated by statues of great leaders from Hungarian history; the Gothic-Revival Parliament building, an iconic feature of the Budapest skyline along the Danube; and Fisherman's Bastion, standing watch like a sentinel over the river. Spend the afternoon exploring on your own. Join us for our farewell reception and dinner tonight onboard ship.
MEALS : B, L, D
LODGING : ms Esprit
PORTOFCALL : Budapest, Hungary
Day 15 Journey home
Tour ends: Budapest. Disembark in Budapest; a transfer is included from the riverboat to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and Budapest Keleti Railway Station. Allow 3 hours for departure flight check-in.
MEALS : B
PORTOFCALL : Budapest, Hungary
Availability
Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Tauck.
Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click
"Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for
the final trip price.
25 Tauck Travel Reviews & Ratings
Amsterdam to Budapest by Riverboat - Southbound 2022
Company Reviews
Nine Tours and Done
5-star hotels switched to 3 and 4 (without any compensation or explanation)… many more meals “on your own”… lots of “self-guided” tours of museums and chateaux and castles we knew nothing about… airline quality “rubber chicken” dinners, not in hotel restaurants, but in sad and isolated business convention spaces… poorly-trained newer Tour Directors (like the one on this tour) with limited experience traveling outside her tiny Canadian village or dealing with people from diverse backgrounds.
She even confessed that this was a second gig job that took her away from her own business back home! You get what Tauck pays for, but unfortunately, not what YOU pay for. Speaking to a “Guest Relations” agent was comically pointless. She tried to make everything my fault, which I now understand is par for the course with the “new” post-Covid Tauck. Please reconsider spending huge amounts of your hard-earned money on a tour company that has lost its way and no longer delivers.
Skip this cruise - not worth it
For dinner every night because the entrees were terrible. You could be the first person at breakfast and everything on the buffet was cold, nothing was hot. there warming trays had tea light candles underneath them.
Wine served at dinner was low quality whicj says something since it was French wine. Tours were poorly
Planned, guides were ok at best. There is no time to shop or eat on land 9 times out 10. We were in Sicily but never got a chance to eat Sicilian food. So disappointed in this ver expensive cruise. The land portions in Malta and Marseiile were better but the tours in Malta were short, limited and subpar. This was our 8th Tauck trip and we have since cancelled our next three. We are not paying Tauck prices for mediocre experiences.
Tauck/Aon terrible travel insurance
Nice trip but not if you are a loyal Tauck Customer like myself
Great if you like 5-star hotels and lots of food
Pay for a 4 star trip and get 2 star food
Details
Ship Name
MS TREASURES, MS ESPRIT
Ship Description
MS TREASURES
One of five 361-foot (110-meter) riverboats in Tauck's Destination Fleet, ms Treasures accommodates no more than 118 guests, while similar-sized riverboats average about 160. Guest amenities inside her 14 lush 300-square-foot suites include brocade upholstery, roomy walk-in closets with built-in drawers, spacious marble baths with full-size tubs, and two French balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to idyllic riverscapes. She also sports seven 183-square-foot cabins, similarly furnished. Standard cabins (150 square feet) are cozy and comfortable and are similar in décor and style to our larger suites. 85% have floor-to-ceiling windows with real French balconies that open on to a balcony in the fresh air; all have in-room movies, minibar, adjustable heating and cooling, private bathroom and shower with pampering toiletries.
MS ESPRIT
One of five 361-foot (110-meter) riverboats in Tauck's Destination Fleet, ms Esprit accommodates no more than 118 guests, while similar-sized riverboats average about 160. Guest amenities inside her 14 lush 300-square-foot Tauck Suites include brocade upholstery, roomy walk-in closets with built-in drawers, spacious marble baths with full-size tubs, and two French balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows that open to idyllic riverscapes. She also sports seven 183-square-foot cabins, similarly furnished. Standard cabins (150 square feet) are cozy and comfortable and are similar in décor and style to our larger suites. 85% have floor-to-ceiling windows with real French balconies that open on to a balcony in the fresh air; all have in-room movies, minibar, adjustable heating and cooling, private bathroom and shower with pampering toiletries.
Deck & Cabin Plans
MS TREASURES
MS ESPRIT
Group Size
Standard Group - 25 + people
Trip ID#:
tauck-RAS2022
We respect your privacy and take great care to protect your information. By clicking «Send my questions» you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. An account will be created for you to track your submission and a temporary password will be emailed to you.
×
You can access members-only savings of up to $700 on over 6,000 Travelstride Select trips.
Sign in to see trip eligibility
With your FREE membership you get to:
- Save up to $700 per person!*
- Access private deals and offers
- See personalized trip recommendations
- Save favorite trips
We respect your privacy and take great care to protect your information. By joining you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.
You could save $ 600 per person on this trip!
