
Splendours of Europe
31 October 2026
14 Night Splendours of Europe river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest on 31 October 2026 onboard Emerald Cruises Star-Ship Emerald Sun
All onboard meals
A selection of beverages with lunch and dinner, including wine, beer, and soft drinks
Onboard Wi-Fi
Shore Excursions
Transfers to and from the ship
Taxes, port charges, and onboard service charges
Super Earlybirds & Pay in Full Discount
itravel Exclusive Offer
$250* Per Person Discount


Day 1: Amsterdam
- Welcome to Amsterdam, a postcard-worthy destination of picturesque canals, cafés, and art galleries. Here, you 'll be met at the airport and transferred to the comfortable surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. After boarding, you can enjoy some time to explore the cobbled streets and gabled houses at leisure. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.
Inclusions: Dinner
Day 2: Amsterdam
- This morning, explore the Dutch Golden Age, as you board a glass-top canal boat cruise to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system or enjoy a guided bike tour to Waterland. Both excellent ways to experience the city in all its authenticity, take to its charming waterways, passing iconic buildings and elegant merchant residences that reflect a time when Amsterdam was one of the most lucrative ports in the world. If you’re feeling more active, then explore on two wheels, cycling alongside a backdrop of historical villages and traditional windmills. Upon returning to your ship, your first day of sailing will take you through the Dutch countryside to the Rhine River.
Included Excursion Canal cruise
EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Waterland.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Colonge
- Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, the cathedral city of Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and the largest on the Rhine. The historic capital of the Rhineland, this illustrious city has been generously peppered with ancient architecture, from Roman ruins to medieval structures, despite much of the inner city being completely destroyed during WWII. Join your local guide and explore the city during a unique adventure that will take you hunting for some of the most typical Cologne treasures.
EmeraldACTIVE Quest for Cologne’s treasures.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Rüdesheim
- Today’s cruising will be a highlight of your trip, as we meander through the fairy tale-like surrounds of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Hilltop castles and fortresses will be yours to admire as we sail. We will pass the infamous Lorelai Rock, where sailors are said to have been lured onto treacherous rocks by an enchanting siren, and the impressive Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, a former stronghold. This afternoon, arrive in Rüdesheim, a town with a vibrant wine-growing heritage. You will have the choice of either riding on the Winzerexpress and visiting Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum or, if you're feeling active, taking an active hike to Niederwalddenkmal.
Included Excursion Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum
EmeraldACTIVE Active Walk to Niederwalddenkmal.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Miltenberg-Wertheim
- Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River, boasting an inimitable feeling of medieval Bavaria with its 15th century half-timbered buildings. On your included walking tour, stroll down the cobblestone streets, lined with these colourful houses and view the Gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence. You could also enjoy an active walk through the forest to Mildenburg Castle. This iconic landmark now houses a wonderful collection of contemporary art and old masters. Later, discover the tranquil beauty of your EmeraldPLUS programme, Bronnbach Abbey, a former Cistercian monastery nestled in the picturesque Tauber Valley.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Miltenberg
EmeraldPLUS Visit to Bronnbach Abbey
EmeraldACTIVE Guided Active Walk to Mildenburg Castle.
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Würzburg
- Known as the ‘Pearl of the Romantic Road’, Würzburg, is the centre for grape-growing, the product of the sloping vineyard-laden hills which surround the former capital of Franconia. The architects behind the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a spectrum of different styles, including Viennese Baroque and secular features from Italy, but it was heavily damaged during WWII. Enjoy learning about how this impressive building was restored to its former glory on a guided tour.
Included Excursion Walking tour of Würzburg and a visit to the Bishops Residence
DiscoverMORE Excursion to Rothenburg (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Bamberg
- This morning, relax on board and witness the beauty of Europe’s waterways from the plush surrounds of your cabin as we cruise to Bamberg. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed town boasts one of the largest medieval centres in Europe, with around 2,400 listed buildings gracing its streets.
Feel the magic of the past as you explore the city with your local guide, marvelling at the opulence of the New Residence, once resided in by the prince bishops and now home to a plethora of old German and Baroque paintings from the Bavarian State collection. Enjoy a tranquil stroll around the Rose Garden to round your day off peacefully.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Bamberg
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8: Nuremberg
- Embark on a sightseeing tour of the historic city of Nuremberg, including the architectural wonders that have inspired famous artists for centuries and exploring the effects that the war years had. After your tour, enjoy time to explore Nuremberg at leisure, passing half-timbered houses that were beautifully reconstructed following the war.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Nuremberg
DiscoverMORE World War II tour (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 9: Regensburg
- This morning, you’ll sail the final stretch of the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg. As you continue sailing down the Danube, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities welcomes you with two millennia of history. For almost 150 years, the Old Town Hall was the seat of parliament. Dating back to the 13th century, it consists of the Town Hall Tower, the Imperial Chamber building, and the Town Hall. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town enable you to live through the city’s history.
The main highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Enjoy time to explore Regensburg at leisure after your guided tour or return to your Star-Ship for some peace and tranquillity. Later today, enjoy a traditional Bavarian band performance on board.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Regensburg
EmeraldPLUS Bavarian band performance on board
DiscoverMORE Sausage-making workshop (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10: Passau
- Passau is a picturesque city that has been shaped by the surrounding rivers over the years, sitting right on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz. This memorable destination is dominated by large squares, magical promenades and romantic lanes. Cobblestone streets and graceful arcades welcome you in the beautiful city of Passau. On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop’s Residence and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe.
Return for lunch on board and an afternoon peacefully cruising along the Danube.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Passau
DiscoverMORE Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE Excursion to Ceský Krumlov (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Melk, Dürnstein
- Situated within Austria’s wine-growing region, Melk is home to a 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, which is yours to explore today during an included tour. Your guide will take you through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.
Later, the Star-Ship sails through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Dürnstein, one of the most enchanting villages in the Wachau wine region, where you can choose to hike to Dürnstein Castle, the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the Crusades.
Alternatively, enjoy an EmeraldACTIVE guided bike ride along the Danube from Melk to Dürnstein, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns.
Included Excursion
Tour of Melk Abbey
EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour along the Danube
EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Vienna
- Austria’s breathtaking capital is recognised for its cultural legacy. As the former residence of Mozart and Beethoven, a multitude of imperial palaces represent a rich history, and the museum district boasts contemporary buildings, housing the work of some of the world’s most prolific artists. Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot or join a guided bike tour. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to explore Vienna at leisure.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Vienna
EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour of Vienna
DiscoverMORE Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE Viennese evening concert (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 13: Bratislava
- Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn cobblestone streets. In the morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour, including the enchanting Old City or hike to Bratislava Castle. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. This afternoon, a local family will be happy to welcome you into their home for some great conversation over traditional sweet treats and coffee.
Included Excursion Walking tour of Bratislava
EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Bratislava Castle
DiscoverMORE Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE Carpathian wine route (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 14: Budapest
- Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Divided by the iconic Danube River, Buda and Pest on either side can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city’s most symbolic structures. Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Alternatively, embark on a hike to Gellert Hill. This evening, you will enjoy a Hungarian folklore show before your farewell dinner.
Included Excursion Guided coach tour of Budapest
EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Gellert Hill
DiscoverMORE Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE Jewish heritage tour (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 15: Budapest
- After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the delightful Danube with you. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
Inclusions: Breakfast
FULL TERMS & CONDITIONS:
✅ Please refer to the cruise lines terms & conditions and cancellation policy.
✅ All prices are correct at the time issue. Pricing is dynamic and is subject to changes & fluctuations at any time without notice, subject to availability at the time of booking.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR PASSENGERS
✅ All passengers are required to sign in and complete the Trip Personaliser (including contact information, passport details, emergency contact, etc). Once all required passenger information is complete, and your documentation is ready, you will be able to download or print your cruise documentation. You will be required to present your documentation, passport, and visa (if required) at embarkation.
✅ In your Trip Personaliser you will have the opportunity to book excursions, and reserve onboard experiences such as spa treatments, etc, when available for your sailing. Dining cannot be reserved until onboard.
✅ All travellers are required to present on check-in a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date to Australia.
✅ Visa and entry requirements vary by country and are subject to change without notice. It is your responsibility to obtain required visa and other documentation prior to travel for the countries you are travelling to and through. For the most up-to-date travel requirements, please visit: https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/
✅ For non-Australian passport holders, only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about visa and entry requirements. Please contact the embassy or consulate of the countries you are visiting well in advance of travel. Please also ensure that you hold a valid re-entry visa or permit for Australia.
✅ We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance with cruise cover, that covers you for the duration of your holiday, to protect you from any possible cancellation charges, onboard or overseas medical costs, repatriation, loss of luggage, personal liability, or other expenses that may arise. You may be required to provide a copy of your certificate on embarkation. Travel Insurance may be mandatory for some cruise lines and destinations.
✅ When a minor (age 17 and under) travels without their legal guardian, an accompanying adult must present a notarized form signed by the child’s guardian. This ensures the child has the guardian’s consent to leave the country and participate in release-form activities onboard. The Minor Consent Form can be obtained from the cruise line.
✅ If your child has a different last name than you, you will need to bring an official supporting document to help explain why the names are different. The supporting document must be the original, or a notarized copy. Please refer to the cruise line’s website for examples of valid supporting documents.
✅ Whilst the cruise line will make all reasonable endeavours to provide a cruise in accordance with the published schedules and itineraries, your cruise itinerary is not guaranteed and does not form part of your contract. Many factors may affect the cruise line’s ability to provide an itinerary as scheduled. These could include weather, mechanical difficulties, civil unrest, or other unforeseen circumstances.
✅ Embarkation times differ with every itinerary, but you’ll be informed of the time you’re expected to arrive at your vessel in your pre-departure documents.
✅ Fuel Surcharges, Taxes, and Port Fees are subject to change without notice at any time whether or not you have a confirmed booking under deposit, or if you have made final payment.