Detailed Itinerary 2012: (The Ultimate River Cruise) DAY 1, ARRIVE IN BUDAPEST, HUNGARY Arrive in Budapest and optional transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to relax or begin exploring this beautiful city. DAY 2, BUDAPEST, HUNGARY Your morning excursion includes sightseeing in Buda and Pest. From historic Buda Castle, enjoy a spectacular view of the twin cities spread over both banks of the river. Your tour also features the distinctive Fisherman’s Bastion, the marvelous Royal Palace, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the famous Heroes’ Square and more. This afternoon, an optional excursion will take you back to the Hungarian Revolution of 1956. (B)

DAY 3, BUDAPEST - EMBARKATION
After checking out of your hotel in Budapest, you will have a free morning to explore on your own before boarding your luxurious ship. In the alternative, you can join an optional excursion to Puszta, the great Hungarian Plain which stretches across to the East. The excursion includes a savory lunch with Goulash. Tonight, you will meet your fellow passengers at the Welcome Dinner, as you cruise to Bratislava. (B,D)

DAY 4, BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA - VIENNA, AUSTRIA
This afternoon, arrive in Bratislava, capital of Slovakia. You have your choice of two tours today. The first option is a walking tour of the city’s major sites, including the Old Town Hall, the stunning Mirbach Palace and Gothic St. Martin’s Cathedral. In the alternative, choose a “Communist Tour” that includes architectural landmarks such as the Radio Building, Liberty Square and the Soviet War Memorial. (B,L,D)

DAY 5, VIENNA
This morning enjoy a guided tour of romantic Vienna that will include the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse and the historic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. In the alternative, join an optional tour this afternoon to the Imperial Schönbrunn Palace. Tonight, enjoy an optional Mozart and Strauss concert in one of the great formal concert houses of Imperial Vienna, such as the Hofburg Palace or Palais Auersperg. (B,L,D)

DAY 6, DÜRNSTEIN - MELK
Early this morning reach the Wachau Valley for your walking tour of Dürnstein, known as one of the prettiest towns along the Danube. Marvel at the magnificent blue facade of the Baroque Stiftskirche. Your tour will also include a wine tasting at a local vintner, where you will sample several different wines, presented along with bread, knowledgeable hosts, and plenty of laughter. This afternoon, you can explore the majestic Wachau Valley on a guided bike tour from Dürnstein to Melk (capacity controlled). The ship arrives in Melk late this afternoon, and you will tour the spectacular Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s largest baroque monasteries. (B,L,D)

DAY 7, LINZ - PASSAU, GERMANY
This morning the ship arrives in Linz, where you will have the choice of two different excursions. The first choice is an optional excursion to Salzburg, where you will take a walking tour of the historic center, famous as the setting for the “Sound of Music” and as the birthplace of Mozart. In the alternative, remain on the ship and cruise through scenic Upper Austria to Passau. Located where the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube, this 2,000-year-old city is noted for its gothic and Italian baroque architecture. A walking tour of Passau will take you along the cobblestone streets of Old Town where you will see the city fortifications and St. Stephan’s Cathedral, home to the largest cathedral organ in the world. (B,L,D)

DAY 8, REGENSBURG
In the early afternoon arrive in Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will have your choice of three different tours here. The fi rst is a guided walking tour, in which you will see the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria — gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 A.D. The next tour is an afternoon bike ride to Walhalla, where you will visit the Walhalla temple which honors distinguished Germans throughout history (capacity controlled). Your third choice is a trip to the Audi Factory in Ingolstadt, where a member of the Audi team will take you on a guided tour of the Audi Museum or Factory Floor (subject to availability). (B,L,D)

DAY 9, NUREMBERG
Enjoy a morning of scenic cruising through the Main-Danube Canal and relax during a leisurely cruise through the beautiful Altmühl Valley. This afternoon, you will explore the medieval history of Nuremberg, and see the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and Old Town Hall. In the alternative, choose a tour that will focus on Nuremberg during World War II as the center of the Third Reich. See the infamous Zeppelin field used to hold rallies and the Justice Palace (when available) where the War Crimes Tribunal sat in 1946. (B,L,D)

DAY 10, NUREMBERG- MUNICH
Today, you will travel by train to Munich, the capital of Bavaria and one of Germany’s largest cities. Your escort will offer suggestions on what to see while in town, and will take you to lunch in a local restaurant. Tonight, you will meet additional fellow travelers embarking from Prague. (B,L,D)

DAY 11, BAMBERG
This morning you will arrive in the medieval town of Bamberg where you will enjoy a walking tour of this picturesque town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the cathedral, the Old Town Hall that straddles the river, and explore serpentine streets lined with charming houses. Sample some of Bamberg’s famous smoked beer before continuing your cruise, now on the Main River. After departing Bamberg you will cruise to the Main River town of Schweinfurt, and enjoy an evening walk. (B,L,D)

DAY 12, KITZINGEN - WÜRZBURG
This morning you will arrive in Kitzingen. On your walking tour, you’ll see the famous Leaning Tower, built during the 13th century, the Old Main Bridge, Kitzingen Church and the Renaissance Town Hall. Later, the Aulic Council and Wine Queen will welcome you to Germany’s oldest wine cellar. You will taste several different wines, learning first-hand about wine history and production in the region. In the afternoon, you will have a choice of three different tours. You can choose the Würzburg Tour and Residenz visit, during which you will see the major sights, including the Residenz Palace and gardens, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of Europe’s foremost examples of baroque architecture and design. In the alternative, take a guided bike tour from Kitzengen to Würzburg (capacity controlled) or enjoy an optional tour to medieval Rothenburg, a beautiful walled city situated on the Romantic Road. Your walking tour includes entrance to the Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas Museum. (B,L,D)

DAY 13, WERTHEIM – MILTENBERG.
This morning, you will tour Wertheim, located at the confluence of the Main and Tauber Rivers. The town has retained much of its medieval Franconian character, which you will discover on your walking tour of the historic city center. In the alternative, a guided bike tour from Wertheim (capacity controlled) will take you along the Main River Valley. Cruise during lunch time to Miltenberg, arriving in the afternoon for a guided walking tour along cobble-stone streets lined with gabled, half-timbered houses. Tonight, the ship sails leaving Bavaria, Franconia and the Main River behind. (B,L,D)

DAY 14, MAINZ - RÜDESHEIM - KOBLENZ
Early this morning, you will cruise on the Rhine River, where you will see the stunning beauty of the Rhine castles and the infamous Lorelei Rock as we sail through the fascinating Rhine Gorge. Arrive in Mainz after breakfast and decide between two different excursions. You can choose a walking tour of beautiful Mainz, where you will see the famous Gutenberg Museum, home of the world’s first printed bible. In the afternoon, arrive in Rüdesheim and visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, which houses one of the greatest collections of robotic and self-playing musical instruments of the 18th-20th centuries. In the alternative, chose an excursion to Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university town. You will visit the red-walled Heidelberg Castle, the Great Vat and also take a walking tour of Old Heidelberg. Tonight, the ship cruises to Koblenz, which is situated at the confluence of the Mosel and Rhine rivers. (B,L,D)

DAY 15, COCHEM - ZELL
Today, visit the fairytale village of Cochem, surrounded by the scenic wine villages of the Mosel Valley. Walk along narrow cobblestone streets lined with medieval houses before taking a guided tour of Reichsburg Castle. Situated high above Cochem, the castle grounds boast spectacular views of the River Mosel. In the alternative, enjoy a guided bike tour (capacity controlled) of the scenic Mosel Valley. This evening continue past hillside vineyards to Zell, where a welcoming wine fest awaits you. Experience the hospitality of Zell with a visit by the Mayor and Wine Queen. (B,L,D)

DAY 16, TRIER
This afternoon, arrive in Trier, Germany’s oldest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its rich ancient Roman history. On your guided tour, you will see the old Roman amphitheater, Roman Baths, Basilica of Constantine and the Porta Nigra gate, dating back to 180 A.D. This evening, the ship sails for the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. (B,L,D)

DAY 17, REMICH – DISEMBARK – LUXEMBOURG – PARIS, FRANCE.
This morning, bid farewell to your cruise. You will then take a panoramic tour as you transfer to Grand Duchy, and will see the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial, final resting place of Gen. George S. Patton, Jr. You will enjoy a walking tour of Luxembourg, and then have some free time for lunch on your own before boarding a TGV high-speed train to Paris. Arrive in the mid-afternoon and check in to your hotel. (B)

DAY 18, PARIS
Enjoy Paris’ famous sights during this morning’s guided tour. Start with a panoramic tour in which you will see the Champs Élysées, Place de la Concorde and the Eiffel Tower. Your tour concludes with a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral. The remainder of the day is yours to explore on your own. (B)

DAY 19, PARIS
Your last day in the “City of Light” is free for you to enjoy at leisure. Or, you may decide to join the optional Seine Cruise & Eiffel Tower excursion in the morning or the optional Parisian Cabaret excursion this evening. (B)

DAY 20, PARIS
Breakfast . Optional transfer to the airport for your homeward flight. (B)

REVERSE ITINERARY (2012)

DAY 1, ARRIVE IN PARIS, FRANCE
Arrive in Paris and optional transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at your leisure.

DAY 2, PARIS
Enjoy Paris’ famous sights during your morning guided tour. Visit Notre Dame Cathedral, see the unique Louvre Museum, the commemorative Arc de Triomphe, Opéra, La Madeleine, Les Champs Elysées and much more. The remainder of the day is yours to explore the many museums, galleries and other attractions that the city has to offer. (B)

DAY 3, PARIS
Enjoy a full free day to explore the amazing “City of Light,” where romance fills the air. Stroll along Les Champs Elysées, the boutique-lined boulevards, or see the Eiffel Tower, built for the World’s Fair of 1889. Paris at night offers unlimited possibilities for every taste. (B)

DAY 4, PARIS - LUXEMBOURG, REMICH - EMBARKATION
Say "Au Revoir" to Paris as you board your TGV high-speed train to Luxembourg, one of the last independent duchies that made up Western and Central Europe. Today the Grand Duchy is important because of its role in international politics and banking. You will have a guided tour of Luxembourg before transferring to your ship in Remich. Tonight, gather on board for a Gala Welcome Dinner (B,D)

DAY 5, TRIER-BERNKASTEL
After breakfast, arrive in the charming village of Trier, Germany’s oldest city, for a guided tour which will introduce you to the city’s rich Roman past. On your guided tour, you will see the old Roman amphitheater, Roman Baths, Basilica of Constantine and the Porta Nigra gate, dating back to 180 A.D. Continue to Bernkastel. Strategically located in the middle of the Mosel wine-producing region, Bernkastel boasts over 500 years of documented wine history. Late this afternoon, enjoy a vineyard visit and walking tour. Your will also enjoy a wine tasting, where you will sample several different wines, presented along with bread, knowledgeable hosts, and plenty of laughter. After dinner, take a guided walking tour through the old town center with its many medieval and Renaissance buildings. (B,L,D)

DAY 6, COCHEM - KOBLENZ - RHINE CASTLES - RÜDESHEIM
Today, decide between an excursion to Cochem or to Koblenz. In Cochem, you will take a guided of the spectacular hilltop Reichsburg Castle, which offers fascinating views of the river valley. In the alternative, travel to Koblenz, an historic wine-growing town at the confluence of the Mosel and Rhine rivers. There, you will visit the Koblenz Flower Show. This special event taking place through October features 120 acres of magnificent floral displays, exhibitions and events. Exhibit grounds include the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, which you will visit. Later, enjoy scenic cruising along the most beautiful and famous part of the Rhine, seeing castle after castle and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Arrive in Rüdesheim and take a mini train to visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum after dinner. Tonight, explore the Drosselgasse, a narrow alley lined with wine taverns and restaurants. The ship moors overnight in Rüdesheim. (B,L,D)

DAY 7, MAINZ - HEIDELBERG - FRANKFURT
Today, you decide between two excursions: take a guided walking tour of beautiful Mainz and see the Gutenberg Museum, home of the world’s first printed bible, then enjoy a lunchtime cruise to Frankfurt. In Frankfurt, you will have a walking tour of the city’s medieval section. In the alternative, travel by motor coach for an excursion to Heidelberg, Germany's oldest university town. Visit the red-walled Castle, the Great Vat, a 49,000-gallon 18th-century wine cask, and enjoy the beautiful views of the Neckar Valley and Heidelberg below. You will also enjoy free time in Heidelberg. Later this afternoon, return to Frankfurt. (B,L,D)

DAY 8, MILTENBERG - WERTHEIM
Arrive in Miltenberg for a walking tour of this delightful old Franconian town with its narrow cobblestone streets and gabled, half-timbered houses. During lunch, the ship will cruise to Freudenberg. A motor coach tour will take you to Wertheim, where you will have free time to explore the town on your own before boarding your ship for an overnight cruise to Wurzburg. A guided bicycle tour is also available (capacity controlled). (B,L,D)

DAY 9, WÜRZBURG - KITZINGEN
During your guided tour of Würzburg, you will see the major sights, including the Residenz Palace and gardens, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as one of Europe’s foremost examples of baroque architecture and design. This afternoon take an optional tour along the Romantic Road to medieval Rothenburg. Still surrounded by its walls, towers, gates, timber framed buildings and ancient churches, enjoy a walking tour of this marvelous town, followed by free time. One of the most famous shops dedicated to the Christmas season is located here, complete with hand-made German Christmas ornaments. Or join our Würzburg to Kitzingen bike tour (capacity controlled). This evening, the Aulic Council and Wine Queens will welcome you at the pier and escort you to Germany’s oldest wine cellar. Enjoy several different wines, presented along with bread, knowledgeable hosts, and plenty of laughter. (B,L,D)

DAY 10, BAMBERG
Arrive this afternoon in enchanting Bamberg, which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993. Disembark for a guided tour of this medieval gem. Enjoy free time in Bamberg before you continue your cruise this evening to ancient Nuremberg, capital of Franconia. (B,L,D)

DAY 11, NUREMBERG
Today, travel by train to Munich, the capital of Bavaria and one of Germany’s largest cities, often given the nickname “Germany’s secret capital.” Your escort today will be on hand to offer you suggestions on what to see while in town and to take you to lunch at a local restaurant. Tonight, you will meet fellow travelers embarking from Prague. (B,L,D)

DAY 12, NUREMBERG
This afternoon, you will explore the medieval history of Nuremberg, and see the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and Old Town Hall. In the alternative, choose a tour that will focus on Nuremberg during World War II as the center of the Third Reich. See the infamous Zeppelin field used to hold rallies and the Justice Palace (when available) where the War Crimes Tribunal sat in 1946. (B,L,D)

DAY 13, REGENSBURG
This morning’s scenic cruising takes you through the final stretch of the Main-Danube Canal to arrive in magnificent Regensburg, one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. A guided tour will show you the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria - gates to an ancient Roman fort which was built in 179 AD. In the alternative, visit the Audi Factory in Ingolstadt, where a member of the Audi team will take you on a guided tour of the Audi Car Museum or Factory Floor (subject to availability). In the afternoon, you are free to join the optional excursion to beautiful Weltenburg Abbey and see the scenic Danube Gorge (seasonal) or take a guided bike tour to visit the Walhalla Temple which honors distinguished Germans throughout history. (B,L,D)

DAY 14, PASSAU - LINZ, AUSTRIA
After breakfast, arrive in picturesque Passau, where the Inn and Ilz Rivers join the Danube. Your city tour takes you on an exploration of this fairy tale city founded more than 2,000 years ago. Or, substitute the city tour with the optional excursion to Salzburg, birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and the setting for the “Sound of Music.” During your walking tour see Mozart’s birthplace. For those staying on board, enjoy a scenic cruise from Passau into Austria and on to Linz. After dinner, take a walk through this delightful town, Austria's third largest city and a major river port. (B,L,D)

DAY 15, MELK - VIENNA
Cruise through the narrow Strudengau and reach the Wachau Valley early this morning. Your guided tour takes you to Melk's magnificent Benedictine Abbey. Return to the ship for lunch as you cruise the romantic Wachau Valley. Arrive in Vienna, the "City of Music" before dinner. Explore the magnificent Austrian capital on your own, or participate in the optional Mozart and Strauss concert. (B,L,D)

DAY 16, VIENNA
Savor the Baroque elegance of romantic Vienna on the guided city tour which includes the world famous Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, the awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral and more. The tour is followed by free time in the city center to shop for souvenirs or sample some of Vienna’s famous pastries. In the alternative, join an optional tour to the Imperial Schönbrunn Palace, which is a fine example of Baroque architecture. (B,L,D)

DAY 17, BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
This morning, a sightseeing tour takes you to historic Buda Castle from where you can enjoy a splendid view of the twin cities of Buda and Pest spread over both banks of the River. Your tour also features the distinctive Fisherman’s Bastion, the marvelous Royal Palace, St. Stephen’s Basilica, the famous Heroes’ square and more. An afternoon optional excursion takes you back to the Hungarian Revolution of 1956. What started out as a student demonstration, quickly spread across the country causing an uprising against the Communist regime. After dinner, the ship will sail a special “Illuminations Cruise” past the illuminated river front of Budapest. (B,L,D)

DAY 18, BUDAPEST
This morning, transfer from the ship to your hotel and spend the rest of the day exploring the city on your own. (B)

DAY 19, BUDAPEST
The day is yours to explore the beautiful city of Budapest. Perhaps take in one of the city’s famous museums, or enjoy a stroll down Andrássy Avenue, with its eclectic Neo-renaissance palaces and houses. Visit the Central Market Hall for some shopping or take a trip to the Ecseri Flea Market. (B)

DAY 20, DEPART BUDAPEST
Bid farewell to Budapest and optional transfer to the airport for your homeward flight. (B)

 

Program Includes 2012 & 2013:

• 2 Nights Hotel Accommodation in Budapest including daily Buffet Breakfast
• Transfer from the hotel to the ship in Budapest
• 14 Nights Deluxe Cruise Accommodation in an Outside Stateroom - 82% of the Staterooms with large French Balconies
• Daily Sightseeing Program as outlined in the Itinerary
• Infotainment System in all Staterooms with Free Internet, Hit Movies, Music Library and English Language TV Stations
• Terry Bathrobes and White-on-white plush Bedding in all Staterooms
• Superb Dining with all Meals included during your Cruise
• Free-flowing Red & White Wines from Europe's great Wine Regions, beer and soft drinks with every Dinner on board the Ship
• Bottled Water in every stateroom replenished daily
• Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner & Captain's Gala Dinner
• Transfer from the Ship to Luxembourg, followed by high-speed TGV train to Paris
• 3 Nights Hotel Accommodation in Paris including daily Buffet Breakfast
• Special Highlights including Lectures, Theme Dinners, Cooking Demonstration, onboard Music Performances and afternoon & evening Piano Music
• Use of Bicycles to explore on your own
• Services of Professional Cruise Manager
• All English Language on board in a non-smoking Environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck)
• All local Taxes

Port Charges: $294 per person

Single Supplement for Cruise: 50% of twin price; Jr. Suites 100% of twin price.

Single supplement for Land: $650 per person.

Prices are per person in Category E in a deluxe outside stateroom with window.
To upgrade to a higher Category, add the following amount per person:
 

NOTE: Children are not accepted.

Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking.

The choices are:
Choice A: Two twin beds
Choice B: One large bed (larger than queen size)

Ms Amalegro Amadolce Amalyra  cruiseship description