Magnificent Europe

Discover Central Europe’s most enchanting places in one spectacular journey. After exploring Prague, we bring the best of Europe to you on a cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam along the Danube, Main and Rhine. Then, finish amid the boulevards, boutiques and bistros of Paris. 

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive Prague

Arrive in Prague, the capital of Czech Republic. Set around the Vltava River, fairytale-like architecture and Prague’s stunning castle charm all who visit. Be met and transferred to your hotel. Tonight, come together with your fellow travellers for a welcome reception.

Day 2: Prague

This morning, take in outstanding city views from the majestic Prague Castle, then stroll over the historic Charles Bridge, dating back to 1357. Marvel at the Old Town Square, once Prague’s central marketplace in medieval times. The highlight of the square is the old astronomical clock. Installed in 1410, the clock tracks the movements of the sun and the moon as well as the time. Tonight, dine at Alcron restaurant, a contemporary, fine dining restaurant known for its use of local Czech produce. With a plant-forward philosophy, the restaurant’s dishes combine rich tradition of the region with a modern twist.

Day 3: Prague

Today is set aside to enjoy a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Chateau Jemniště

Savour a day out at Chateau Jemniště, originally designed by the renowned Czech architect, Frances Maxmilián Kaňka. Be greeted by descendants of the Czech Republic’s oldest aristocratic family. Explore the 18th-century estate on a private guided tour and soak in the spectacular bBaroque architecture. Indulge in a delicious lunch before watching an awe-inspiring display as impressive birds of prey free fly during a falconry display

Day 4: Prague, Velké Bílovice, Budapest, Embark Ship 

Travel to Velké Bílovice, the largest winemaking town in the Czech Republic known for its viticulture. Glimpse the town’s many hectares of vineyards as you stop for a light lunch in a traditional restaurant. Travel onwards to the capital of Hungary, Budapest. On arrival, board your new-generation river ship. Spend the remainder of the day settling into your spacious suite and discovering the onboard amenities.

Day 5: Budapest

Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today before cruising to Vienna.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour

Enjoy a morning city tour of Budapest and take in its historic monuments, including Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen's Basilica. Then, visit the Great Market Hall and sample delicious local produce.  

Freedom of Choice – Funicular Ride 

Board a funicular to Castle Hill for superb views, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion.  

Freedom of Choice – Thermal Baths Visit

You may wish to relax in the thermal water pools at the historic Gellért Thermal Bath, which first opened its gates over 100 years ago. 

Gala Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a multi-course meal with an expertly crafted menu. 

Day 6: Vienna

Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising to Vienna. On arrival, take in the city’s many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 7: Vienna

Set out on your chosen sightseeing activity this morning. In the evening, an unforgettable Signature Experience awaits.

Freedom of Choice – Schönbrunn Palace Visit

Tour inside Schönbrunn Palace, the summer palace of the Habsburgs. Discover the apartments of former emperors and take some time to wander the immaculate grounds.   

Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia

Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.   

Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic performance.

Day 8: Dürnstein, Melk

Explore the beautiful town of Dürnstein before choosing your activity. 

Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley

Cruise through the Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, where you’ll roam the town's cobblestoned lanes at your leisure.  

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Melk to Dürnstein

Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Melk to Dürnstein and take in the beautiful scenery of the Wachau Valley along the way.

Day 9: Linz, Salzburg, Passau

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show

Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’.

Day 10: Regensburg

Enjoy the chance to personalise your day with a choice of sightseeing activities on offer.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Regensburg’s World Heritage-Listed City Centre

In Regensburg, explore its atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre or perhaps get active and take a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial

Set out on a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Day 11: Nuremberg

This morning, continue cruising on the Main-Danube Canal. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas. On arrival in Nuremberg, set out on your preferred activity.

Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites

Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.

Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour

Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, the main market square and its 14th-century Gothic church.

Day 12: Bamberg

On arrival into World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another of the few German cities that wasn’t destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the River Regnitz. Otherwise, take it easy and relax on board.

Day 13: Würzburg

Today unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.

Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence

The immense architectural beauty of Würzburg is on display today as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg

Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful houses as you stroll. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wolfhart’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest collection of German Christmas decorations in the world.

Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress

Enjoy a hike to Würzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Forstress, an imposing castle overlooking the city, which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

Day 14: Miltenberg

Step ashore in Miltenberg today and set out on a guided exploration. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Featuring remarkably preserved buildings and lively town squares, this is a beautiful example of Germany’s history. Enjoy a guided exploration of the town before time at leisure to explore. Then, cruise along the Main River.

Day 15: Rüdesheim, Andernach

Dock in Rüdesheim this morning, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, embark on your chosen activity. This afternoon, you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards.

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, built between 1877 and 1883 to commemorate the unification of Germany.

Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, an eccentric and unique museum which is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar

Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.

Day 16: Andernach

Today, enjoy a Signature Experience. The afternoon will be spent cruising onwards to the Netherlands.

Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a 14th century residence set near the Rhine River in Germany. Go beyond the gates and wander about the rooms, hidden nooks and manicured grounds. You’ll then enjoy a morning tea where a pianist playing classical music sets the mood.

Day 17: Amsterdam

Arrive in Amsterdam and set out on your chosen activity. Tonight, enjoy the captain’s farewell dinner.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise

A peaceful way to see the best of Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and admire the city’s unique architecture as you cruise the maze of World Heritage-listed canals for which the city is famous.

Freedom of Choice – Old Amsterdam Cheese Store Visit

Visit the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store for a cheese tasting matched with wine.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride

Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum.

Freedom of Choice – Keukenhof Gardens in Spring

Guests travelling on select spring departures also have the option to visit Keukenhof Gardens. Explore more than 70 acres of world-renowned gardens and admire the spectacular display of more than seven million flowering bulbs in bloom, including colourful tulips.

Day 18: Amsterdam, Disembark Ship, Ghent, Paris

This morning, disembark your ship for the final time in Amsterdam before travelling to Ghent. This Belgian port city is one of the best-kept secrets in Europe with its spellbinding architecture and historic old town. Here, embark on a cruise to explore its maze of canals, then enjoy a light lunch. Continue to France’s stylish capital, Paris, known for its romantic scenery, rich history, delicious cuisine and abundance of stylish shops and cafes.

Day 19: Paris

Today, embark on an enriching discovery of Paris, accompanied by a local expert. Discover a number of highlights from the 'City of Light', which have famously featured in countless films and stories. Stroll through the bustling Avenue des Champs-Élysées lined with grand storefronts. Crowning the western end of the avenue is the Arc de Triomphe, a structure commemorating those who fought and died in the French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars. Arguably the most iconic monument in Paris, the Eiffel Tower stands tall in the heart of the bustling city. Be mesmerised by the beauty of this remarkable iron structure, built for the world fair in the late 19th century.

Then, savour a delectable lunch during an unforgettable boat tour of Paris along the River Seine. Departing from the Eiffel Tower, glide past famous sights such as Les Invalides, Musée d'Orsay, and the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral. Pass under the elegant Pont Alexandre III bridge before catching a glimpse of the Louvre, Arc de Triomphe and the Statue of Liberty.

Day 20: Depart Paris

Your journey comes to an end today as you bid farewell to your fellow travellers and Paris with a transfer to the airport.