My Unforgettable River Cruise with AmaWaterways: A Journey Through Western Europe on the AmaVerde

Good Morning from my balcony!

From August 25 to September 1, 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to embark on a river cruise with AmaWaterways aboard the AmaVerde, a beautiful ship that took me on an unforgettable journey through some of Western Europe’s most charming cities. The itinerary, which spanned from Vilshofen in Germany to Budapest in Hungary, provided the perfect mix of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and luxury. Here’s a recap of my experience, along with some personal insights on the ship’s accommodations and the cities I had the pleasure of exploring.

Day 1: Vilshofen, Germany

After landing in Munich and making our way to the meeting site, we boarded our tour bus for the 90-minute journey to Vilshofen, a quaint Bavarian town that set the tone for the entire journey. After settling into our cabin, we had the chance to explore the ship and meet fellow travellers. The AmaVerde is a stunning vessel, elegantly designed with a mix of modern amenities and traditional European charm. The staff was welcoming, and the dining experience, already, was beyond expectations. We enjoyed a gourmet dinner that set the bar for the rest of the week—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented.

The first fun event included in our itinerary was an Oktoberfest welcome party! We found this incredibly fun and a great way to meet fellow cruisers. That evening, we were treated to a welcome reception where we got to meet the cruise director and learn more about the journey ahead. Vilshofen is charming, but we were already excited for what the next day would bring.

Day 2: Passau, Germany

Our first stop was Passau, a picturesque town located at the confluence of three rivers—the Danube, Ilz, and Inn. Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau is famous for its beautiful baroque architecture and the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world. It was incredible to see, despite being refurbished and much of it blocked from view.

I had the chance to explore the town on foot, wandering its cobblestone streets and enjoying the quaint shops and cafes. The highlight of the day was a guided walking tour through the town’s historic center, which offered rich insights into Passau’s fascinating past. The food onboard that evening was, as expected, outstanding—each meal felt like a celebration of the region’s culinary culture.

Day 3: Linz, Austria

The next day, we sailed into Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, known for its contemporary art scene and its beautiful location along the Danube River. The charm of Linz lies in its blend of old and new—ancient churches sitting side by side with modern museums and galleries. The evening entertainment on board AmaVerde was just as vibrant, with a local folk band performing traditional Austrian music.

Day 4: Melk, Austria

On Day 4, we arrived at Melk, famous for its breathtaking Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s most magnificent baroque structures. The abbey towers over the town, offering sweeping views of the Danube. After touring the abbey, I was amazed at the intricate frescoes, ornate interiors, and beautiful gardens. I loved everything about Melk!!!

Day 5: Vienna, Austria

Vienna was next, and it was everything I imagined it would be—grand, opulent, and full of history. We arrived early in the morning, and I was eager to start exploring this imperial city. Our local guide took us on a walking tour of the Hofburg Palace, the Vienna State Opera, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum. The architectural beauty of Vienna is simply unmatched, and I was especially taken by the Schönbrunn Palace, which felt like stepping into a royal fairytale.

After a day of sightseeing, we had a truly special dinner on board—traditional Wiener Schnitzel followed by Sachertorte, a famous Viennese dessert. The blend of food and culture made this a day to remember.

Day 6: Bratislava, Slovakia

After leaving Vienna, we sailed along the Danube to Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Bratislava is a charming city with a unique blend of medieval and modern architecture. I loved wandering through its narrow streets, admiring the Bratislava Castle, and enjoying the view of the Danube from the castle’s terraces.

This was a lovely city and I was enamoured by its charm.

Day 7: Budapest, Hungary

The grand finale of our journey took us to Budapest, Hungary’s stunning capital, often referred to as the "Paris of the East." We arrived in the morning and, after breakfast, embarked on a guided tour of the city. Highlights included the Buda Castle, the Parliament Building, and a peaceful stroll along the Chain Bridge. Budapest’s striking architecture, with its grand buildings and scenic views of the Danube, left me in awe.

In the evening, we took a Danube river cruise, where we saw the city beautifully lit up at night. The Parliament Building and Buda Castle looked absolutely magical, illuminated against the night sky. The perfect way to end an incredible week of exploration.

Day 8: Depart for Home

At 530 am. I snuck out of my room to head to the airport and fly home. After a month of travelling, I sure did miss home. My heart was full of memories spent with my lovely cousin in Europe, on this beautiful river cruise. Ama Waterways excels in customer service. Not once did we have to worry about a thing on this trip - they absolutely do river cruising the best!!!

Accommodation: From Entry-Level to Double Balcony Suite

Throughout the week, I had the chance to experience both an entry-level cabin and the Double Balcony Suite—and I’m so glad I did. The entry-level cabin was cozy and well-appointed, with all the essentials you need for a comfortable stay. It was perfect for those who plan to spend more time exploring the upper decks and cities than in the cabin.

However, the Double Balcony Suite was where I truly felt I could unwind and soak in the journey. With two balconies—one overlooking the river and the other offering a beautiful view of the town or countryside—I woke up each morning to breathtaking views. Having coffee on the deck while watching the world go by became one of my favorite parts of the day. If you can splurge for the upgrade, I highly recommend it—it’s worth the extra space and the incredible experience of waking up to the sights of Western Europe right outside your window.

European River Cruise Q&A for First-Time Guests

Q: What’s the difference between a river cruise and an ocean cruise?

A: River cruises are more intimate, with smaller ships (usually 100–190 guests) and a relaxed pace. You’ll dock in the heart of charming towns and cities — no tenders, no seasickness, and no long days at sea. It’s a more immersive, cultural experience with guided tours often included.

Q: What’s included in a European river cruise?

A: Most river cruises are nearly all-inclusive. This typically covers your stateroom, all meals onboard, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, daily shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and often airport transfers. Some lines (like AmaWaterways) also offer complimentary bicycles and wellness activities.

Q: What’s the best time of year to go?

A: The river cruise season runs from March to December. Spring and fall offer mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is warmer and lively, while December is magical for Christmas market cruises. Flexibility can help you access better deals and fewer crowds.

Q: If we go as a group, will we be seated together as a group?

A: Absolutely. Dining is open seating, and groups can always sit together. You can even request a table just for your group during meals, and many ships can accommodate that.

Q: How active are the excursions?

A: There are typically multiple excursion options each day, including gentle walking tours, active hikes, and bike rides. If your group prefers a slower pace, there are “gentle walker” options available, and you can always explore on your own, too.

Q: Can we add extra time before or after the cruise?

A: Yes! Many itineraries offer pre- or post-cruise extensions in cities like Paris, Prague, Budapest, or Amsterdam. These packages often include hotels, tours, and transfers — and some are complimentary on select sailings when booked through my agency.

Q: What is the typical age group on a European river cruise? Is it just for seniors?

A: While river cruising has traditionally attracted mature travelers (50+), it’s increasingly popular with younger guests, active couples, friend groups, and even families with adult children. There is not much to do on a ship for children under 18, and each cabin contains only two twin beds or one queen.

River cruises appeal to travelers who enjoy cultural experiences, fine dining, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere — without the crowds or party vibe of large ocean ships. If your group enjoys exploring historic cities, local food and wine, and traveling in comfort, river cruising is a great fit — no matter your age!

Final Thoughts: A Journey of a Lifetime

My river cruise with AmaWaterways aboard the AmaVerde was a truly unforgettable experience. The food, the cities, the rich cultural immersion, and the luxurious service all came together to create a seamless, enriching journey. I loved exploring a new region of Western Europe each day, and the variety of experiences—from historic tours to local meals—made every moment feel special.

If you’re considering a river cruise through Europe, I highly recommend AmaWaterways. Their attention to detail, commitment to luxury, and focus on guest experience make them a standout in the world of river cruising. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, the AmaVerde will take you on a journey you’ll never forget.

Exclusive Perks When You Book an AmaWaterways Double Balcony Suite with My Agency!

When you reserve an AmaWaterways double balcony suite through my agency, you'll receive additional perks and valuable inclusions. If you’re flexible with your travel dates and itinerary, you can take advantage of further select sailing offerings:

• Complimentary pre- or post-cruise land extensions

• Free round-trip airfare

• Early booking rewards

• Anniversary sale savings — up to $3,000 per stateroom

• Air Plus promotions

• 2-for-1 pricing on land packages

• 10% savings on combination cruises

• Special offers for military personnel

• Solo traveler incentives

Let’s find the perfect sailing to maximize these offers!