7-Night Danube Waltz — AmaWaterways
Nuremberg to Budapest — the Danube's imperial cities
About This Itinerary
AmaWaterways' Danube Waltz is one of the most popular river cruise itineraries in the world — a 7-night journey from Nuremberg to Budapest that passes through some of Europe's most magnificent cities. Vienna's imperial palaces, Budapest's stunning Parliament, and the medieval towns of Passau and Regensburg are highlights. Active excursion options include cycling along the Danube Bike Path — one of Europe's finest cycling routes.
Itinerary Highlights
- ✓Vienna — Schönbrunn Palace, the State Opera, and the Naschmarkt
- ✓Budapest — the Parliament, Buda Castle, and the Chain Bridge
- ✓Passau — City of Three Rivers and the world's largest cathedral organ
- ✓Cycling the Danube Bike Path — one of Europe's finest cycling routes
- ✓Twin-balcony cabins — watch the Danube pass from your private balconies
Featured Ship
AmaVerdeRoute Map
6 ports of call across 7 nights
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Board AmaVerde and explore Nuremberg's medieval Old Town.
Medieval city and the 12th-century Stone Bridge.
City of Three Rivers and cycling the Danube Bike Path.
Ars Electronica and the Austrian heartland.
Imperial Vienna — Schönbrunn and the State Opera.
Second day in Vienna — Belvedere Palace and the Naschmarkt.
Disembark in Budapest — the Paris of the East.
Ports of Call
Nuremberg
Germany · Day 1
Embarkation port — medieval Old Town and the Nazi Documentation Centre.
Regensburg
Germany · Day 2
One of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities.
Passau
Germany · Day 3
City of Three Rivers — where the Inn, Ilz, and Danube meet.
Linz
Austria · Day 4
Austria's third city — Ars Electronica and the Bruckner House.
Vienna
Austria · Days 5–6
The imperial capital of the Habsburg Empire.
Budapest
Hungary · Day 7
Disembarkation port — the Paris of the East.
Shore Excursion Ideas
Danube Bike Path Cycling
adventurePassau · 3 hours
Cycle along the legendary Danube Bike Path through the Austrian countryside.
Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens
culturalVienna · 3 hours
Tour the imperial Schönbrunn Palace and its magnificent formal gardens.
Budapest Highlights & Parliament
culturalBudapest · 4 hours
Visit the stunning Parliament building and Buda Castle with an expert guide.
Best Time to Sail
April through October. May and September are ideal.
Wendy's Take on This Itinerary
Wendy Orr — Travel Expert Since 1990
Oh, the Danube Waltz with AmaWaterways – it's truly one of those itineraries that captures your heart and soul. Having experienced the magic of this river myself, I can tell you that the 7-Night Danube Waltz aboard the AmaVerde is an absolute gem. From the moment you embark in Passau, you're transported into a world of enchanting landscapes, historic cities, and unparalleled comfort. AmaWaterways really shines with its commitment to a premium experience, and the complimentary wine with dinner is just one of those thoughtful touches that elevates every evening. The ship itself, the AmaVerde, is designed for relaxation and enjoyment, offering a perfect blend of elegance and coziness. It's ideal for couples, friends, or even multi-generational families looking for a sophisticated yet active European adventure.
What makes this journey so special are the diverse experiences woven into the itinerary. Imagine cycling excursions through charming villages, feeling the breeze as you explore on two wheels – it's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the local culture. And the Wachau Valley scenic cruising? Absolutely breathtaking. You'll want to have your camera ready for those postcard-perfect views of vineyards and ancient castles. For those considering a truly unique experience, the Christmas market sailings are simply magical. The festive atmosphere, the twinkling lights, and the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine create memories that last a lifetime. I always recommend booking these special sailings well in advance, as they tend to sell out quickly due to their immense popularity.
When it comes to booking, my advice is always to plan ahead, especially for prime seasons or those coveted Christmas market dates. For cabin recommendations, consider a French balcony or a twin balcony stateroom on the upper decks for the best views and natural light – it truly enhances the river cruising experience. If you're wondering what to splurge on, I'd say invest in a few of the optional excursions that align with your passions, whether it's a culinary tour in Vienna or a deeper dive into Budapest's thermal baths. These curated experiences often provide unique insights you wouldn't get otherwise. Remember, I'm here to help you navigate all the options, ensure you get the best value, and tailor this incredible journey to your personal preferences. Don't hesitate to reach out for personalized advice!
Insider Tips for This Itinerary
When in Linz, don't miss the opportunity to try a Linzer Torte from a local bakery; it's a regional specialty and a delicious treat.
During the Wachau Valley scenic cruising, head to the top deck early to secure a prime viewing spot, especially as you approach the iconic Dürnstein Castle.
For the cycling excursions, pack comfortable athletic wear and consider bringing your own padded cycling shorts if you plan on participating frequently.
If you're on a Christmas market sailing, research the specific markets in each port beforehand to prioritize which ones you want to explore most deeply, as each has its own unique charm.
Ready to Book This Itinerary?
Tell Wendy you're interested in the 7-Night Danube Waltz with AmaWaterways and she'll take it from there.