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    Amsterdam to Budapest in pure luxury. Travel to Amsterdam and enjoy a relaxing pre-cruise stay at 5-star luxury accommodation. Then cruise the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers on our first-class Amsterdam to Budapest cruise. From $14,742 $11,499 after member savings:
    • $2,000 towards flights
    • 1 night, 5-star (diamond standard) canal ring accommodation
    • 15-day, 5-star luxury river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest
    • 1 night staying at the Prestige hotel in Budapest (one of the world's best hotels)
    • Private car airport transfers
    • Included excursions and a lot more
    Compare to a Scenic or APT 15-day river cruise. Better value with zero compromises. Limited availability. Enquire now.
    Cabin with panoramic window (included)
    Cabin with panoramic window (included)

    FULL RETAIL VALUE: $14,742pp. YOU PAY FROM $11,399, SAVE UP TO $3,243pp.

    Compare to Scenic 15-day river Amsterdam to Budapest cruise called "Jewels of Europe". [See it here] We include everything for up to $3,000 per person less than their cruise-only price. Our standard of ship is equal to or higher than Scenic and our package offers far superior value.

    Click/tap to compare

    • $14,925 Scenic balcony suite, mid-ship price Jewels of Europe 2023
    • Our ships offer equal or higher standards to Scenic
    • Beautiful ship decor
    • Panoramic windows
    • Wonderful European service
    • Scenic cruises balcony suite

    BOOKING ENQUIRY

    Trip Highlights

    Exceptional value, exceptional quality. This ship that will take you on this river cruise is amongst the most luxurious in Europe.


    Beautifully appointed cruise ship

    Scenic offers the classic Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise in 2023, balcony cabin, mid-ship for $14,825 per person. We're offering pre and post-cruise, 5-star accommodation plus private airport transfers, for thousands of dollars less than their cruise-only price.

    Trip highlights:

    • Stay a night in Amsterdam's canal ring centre at a 5-star, diamond standard hotel
    • Spend 16 glorious days cruising in 5-star luxury from Amsterdam to Budapest
    • Enjoy a welcome cocktail and a delicious dinner with entertainment
    • In Amsterdam enjoy a boat trip along the famous canals
    • Visit the peaceful countryside areas of the Waterland region and see the famous windmills
    • Sail on the legendary Rhine to Cologne, capital of the Rhineland and visit the famous cholocate museum
    • View the mighty Lorelei Rock named for the siren "Lorelei" rising vertically from the waters
    • Cruise the Main-Danube Canal, considered a marvel of modern engineering
    • Marvel at the beautiful churches and ancient stone bridges in Regensburg
    • Tour romantic Vienna with its legendary opulence and elegance
    • Enjoy the sights of Vienna on the "Highlights of Vienna" tour
    • Visit the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
    • Explore the sites of the Hungarian capital Budapest on a city tour
    • Enjoy 1 night post-tour, staying at Prestige Hotel Budapest, one of the world's best hotels - Prestige suite (top of the range)


    Luxury suites

    See the full itinerary for details. Package price varies according to season and departure city.

    Global Escapes Travel

    In the style of most Global Escapes Independent Traveler itineraries, this is a perfect blend of self-guided adventure and forward-planning to ensure that the main elements are organised in advance allowing for plenty of time to relax and take in each place you visit.

    Package Pricing

    FULL RETAIL VALUE

    $14,742pp

    SAVINGS APPLIED

    -$3,243

    YOU PAY FROM*

    $11,499

    SAVING OFF FULL RETAIL VALUE (UP TO): 22%

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    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. The final price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. All prices are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Full booking terms and conditions are available HERE...

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    Inclusions

    "Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise, 5-star luxury all the way. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

    Enjoy a luxury stay in central Amsterdam then board one of the newest and most luxurious river cruise ships in Europe. You will be enchanted and spoiled from the moment you board. You only live once! This is the best value, 5-star Amsterdam to Budapest package you will find with numerous activities included in the price.

    This is a first-class travel itinerary that's fully flexible. Want more or fewer days or you want to include a special destination or activity? No problem, we’ll customise a travel plan for you.

    Once-in-a-lifetime, European river cruise...

    Video link

    Click/tap to watch this short video to learn about what we have in store for you.

    Package inclusions:

    • Wonderful, 5-star, 15 day river cruise Amsterdam to Budapest with all meals, drinks etc.
    • $2,000 towards flights
    • Private airport transfer in Amsterdam
    • 1 night Amsterdam canal ring centre staying at a 5-star, diamond standard hotel with breakfast included
    • Informative sight-seeing canal cruise in Amsterdam
    • Tour of the Waterland region and windmills
    • Cruise the Main-Danube Canal, considered a marvel of modern engineering
    • "Highlights of Vienna" tour
    • Visit the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna
    • Budapest city tour
    • Hand-selected wines from the best wine regions of Europe served with dinner on board 
    • 1 night post-tour, staying at Prestige Hotel Budapest
    • Breakfast and dinner in Budapest
    • Private airport transfer Budapest
    • Lonely Planet guides for Amsterdam, Germany and Budapest
    • No fees to alter the itinerary (you just pay for the adjusted itinerary)
    • Comprehensive, printed itinerary
    • Personal travel consultant

    Standard river cruise inclusions:

    • Generous breakfast buffet with coffee, tea and juices
    • Multi-course menus served at table for lunch and dinner
    • Optional light lunch buffet
    • Coffee, tea after lunch and dinner
    • Coffee, cake or midnight snack depending on the daily itinerary
    • Festive welcome and farewell dinners
    • Cruise director and local tour guides
    • Audio headset system for all excursions
    • On-board entertainment
    • Luggage service from landing stage to cabin for embarking and disembarking
    • All port and passenger fees

    Cruise ship, cabin and general information:

    The ships for this cruise feature spacious deluxe cabins and suites. Many have lowerable panoramic windows which extend across the entire cabin front and have been specially designed for this cruise line. All deluxe cabins and suites offer comfortable, spacious bathrooms, infotainment systems, flat screen television, telephone, cabin safe, minibar and air conditioning which can be individually regulated. Furthermore, many suites feature a comfortable corner sofa, luxurious bathroom and walk-out external balcony.

    Other:

    If the pictured or included accommodation is not available for your travel dates, we will substitute for accommodation of the same or higher standard.

    Carefully selected accommodation:

    Hotel standards

    Read about our accommodation rating standards and the methods used to assess quality.

    Fully customisable:

    This itinerary is fully customisable to suit your requirements. Your personal travel consultant is available to discuss changes and additions that will enhance your travel experience.

    Special value:

    Lonely Planet Logo

    Lonely Planet is renowned for its first-hand approach, up-to-date maps and commitment to providing the best information for travelers. Lonely Planet authors are experienced, insightful travel experts. They personally research the places they write about - both in the first and in subsequent editions - and provide essential travel details along with a wealth of insider information and first-hand tips.

    Amsterdam
    Germany
    Budapest

    You will receive these guides to help you gain the most out of your holiday. Recommendation: Take the time to read suggestions for things to see and do before you leave home. Take your Lonely Planet guides with you in your luggage.


    * All prices are per-person on a twin-share basis and bookings are subject to availability. Price and deposit amount varies according to travel date. If flights are shown as included then a flight cost provision (allowance) applies and is based on travel from Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane. Travel can be arranged from any other major centre and for any number of people. All prices shown are estimates only. A firm quote (travel plan) with payment terms will be submitted for consideration prior to agreement to proceed. Total price after member discount (using Getaway Cash travel credits and Australian Escapes Free Flights Vouchers if applicable) is generally payable as follows: Deposit on booking, balance 120 days prior to departure. Packages can be priced for families and groups on request. Standard price and full retail value comparisons are with similar packages offered elsewhere or what we estimate would be payable by a non-member for the same or similar package and may include a value we define for specialty travel agency services. Travel insurance if included is a provision only and may be declined on requestTravel insurance pricing if stated is based on comprehensive travel insurance for two travellers aged 69 years or less as at the date of departure from Australia. No recommendations or advice are given in regard to travel insurance suitability. Travel Directions Pty Ltd (t/as Australian Escapes Holiday & Travel Club) standard booking terms and conditions apply to all booking enquiries and bookings and are available here to view (or visit our website and go to either the "Booking Enquiry" or "About Us" menu item.)

    Your Itinerary

    Spanning 2,000 kilometers across Europe, from Amsterdam at the North Sea to Budapest the “Queen of the Danube”, the castles lining the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers are testaments to the majesty of European history. The beauty of the Rhine with its castles and cathedral cities, the engineering feat of the Main-Danube canal and the wonders of the Danube River are all highlights along the way.

    "I'm in love with cities I've never been to and people I've never met." - John Green

    The following itinerary features both included and optional excursions. Included activities are shown. A full list of optional activities is available on request. All dining, meals and standard drinks aboard your cruise ship are included.

    DAY 1: ARRIVE AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS (1 NIGHT PRE-CRUISE)

    Arrive in Amsterdam and be picked up by your private car transfer driver. You will be stay in the canal ring area, in central Amsterdam. This is the perfect place to be city centre and you will be staying at an excellent, 5-star rated, diamond standard hotel where you can relax and unwind from your flight.


    Amsterdam hotel - canal view

    Depending on arrival time, you can enjoy the city and spend the night out at a local restaurant. Your included Lonely Planet guide will give you some tips and ideas. Amsterdam transforms at night; don't miss it.

    Included:

    • Private airport transfer.
    • 5-star, diamond standard hotel accommodation.
    • Breakfast.

    DAY 2: AMSTERDAM (RIVER CRUISE START)

    Your morning is free, so after breakfast and having sourced some ideas from your Lonely Planet guide, head out for a walk. There is a lot to see and do. Leave you bags at reception and return later to collect them them when ready to board your cruise ship.


    Restaurant and welcome drinks

    Later in the afternoon, after boarding your cruise ship, enjoy a welcome cocktail and a delicious welcome dinner. A rousing performance by a traditional shanty choir completes the experience.

    Included:

    • Welcome cocktail, dinner and entertainment.

    DAY 3: AMSTERDAM - ULTRECHT

    You'll stay on board in Amsterdam overnight. In the morning, enjoy a boat trip along the famous Amsterdam canals followed by a trip to the peaceful countryside areas of the Waterland region.


    Waterlands region and windmills

    Enjoy the waterside of historic fishing villages and stroll along the long stretch of eateries, cafes, restaurants and fish stalls selling herring and smoked eel. Or choose, instead, to explore the art, history and culture of the Dutch on a tour of Haarlem. Visit the Cathedral of St. Bavo and enjoy the medieval atmosphere of the town's cobbled streets and gabled houses. Rejoin your ship in Utrecht for lunch.

    Included:

    • Informative sight-seeing canal cruise in Amsterdam.
    • Tour of the Waterland region and windmills.

    DAY 4: COLOGNE

    In the morning, you will arrive in beautiful Cologne. Discover the highlights of the city on the guided city tour. End with a glass of typical Kolsch, a famed Rhineland beer.


    Cologne chocolate museum

    After lunch, chocolate lovers will be able to visit the Cologne Chocolate Museum and find out more about the fascinating 500-year history of this much-loved cocoa treat. Nature lovers may prefer the alternate excursion to the Siebengebirge National Park, Germany's first nature reserve, and to Drachenfels castle ruins. With the Rhine sprawling below in all its splendor, the views from the top of the castle ruins are stunning. After an exciting day, return to the vessel to continue south along the river.

    Included:

    • Cologne chocolate museum tour.

    DAY 5: RUDESHEIM

    The morning starts on a high note with the passage of the Lorelei in the myth-enshrouded Upper Middle Rhine Valley. At lunchtime, the vessel arrives in Rüdesheim, a picturesque wine-making town in the Rhine Gorge, where the river landscape has enchanted visitors for centuries.

    Discover the region's rich history on a walking tour and admire the magical collection of instruments at the Music Cabinet Museum. Or choose to take a tram ride through the vineyards of Rudesheim on the "Wine Express", enjoy some fine wine and stroll along the quaint "Drosselgasse".

    DAY 6: MILTENBERG - WERTHEIM

    After a tranquil morning on board, join the afternoon excursion to Miltenberg and Wertheim. Miltenberg is a town flanked by the river Main and an incredible, forested hillside and features Miltenberg Castle and one of the oldest inns in Germany, the Hotel "Zum Riesen".


    Wertheim

    Continue to Wertheim and explore the medieval streets with their half-timbered houses and the unique glass museum. This evening, enjoy another memorable meal as your ship heads toward our next stop.

    DAY 7: WURZBURG

    Today, visit Wurzburg, a city in Bavaria known for lavish architecture, located in the center of the Franconian wine country. In the morning, experience the many beautiful sights of the town as well as the Residenz, a Baroque palace considered a masterpiece of its era. The tour concludes with wine tasting in the ancient wine cellar of a local vineyard.

    As an alternate excursion, join the trip to Rothenburg ob der Tauber, whose towers, city gates, walls, and half-timbered gables have remained unchanged. Relax on board this afternoon and let our Chefs delight you with their culinary magic at dinner.

    DAY 8: BAMBURG

    Spend the morning cruising the scenic Main river. After lunch, arrive in the imperial city of Bamberg, a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, which retains its medieval layout of three settlement areas, along with its historic buildings and Baroque facades.


    Bamberg

    It is ranked as one of Germany's most attractive towns and is known for its deliciously smoky beer. This German town is also the place to begin your crossing of the Rhine-Main-Danube canal. Join a presentation about the canal which allows free flow of traffic between the North Sea and the Black Sea.

    DAY 9: NUREMBERG

    The former imperial city of Nuremberg awaits you today with its impressive turbulent history and sights. After breakfast, explore Nuremberg on the morning tour, admiring the romantic old town, the Palace of Justice (the venue of the Nuremberg Trials), and more.

    In the afternoon, visit the World of Gingerbread to taste fresh Lebkuchen from the oven and learn about this sweet treat made of honey and spices. If you prefer, learn more about World War II and the Nazi past at the Documentation Center of Nuremberg. Back on board, it’s full steam ahead before crossing the European Watershed separating the Main and Danube rivers.

    DAY 10: REGENSBURG

    Regensburg is one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities. Choose to uncover the secrets of this remarkable UNESCO Site during a walking tour. Alternatively, visit the 18th century Thurn and Taxis Palace for a beer tasting in their traditional brewery. A special Bavarian themed evening celebrates this wonderful region.

    DAY 11: PASSAU

    Arrive in time for lunch in the three-rivers city of Passau, lying at the confluence of the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz.

    In the afternoon, join the city walking tour, which showcases the most enchanting sights of this historic city including St. Stephen's Cathedral, home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world. Back on board, enjoy dinner as the vessel sets off toward the Wachau Valley.

    DAY 12: EMMERSDORF/MELK - DURNSTEIN - VIENNA

    In the early morning, dock in Emmersdorf, in the heart of the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley. Spend the morning discovering this typical Lower Austrian town or travel across the river to Melk and its magnificent Benedictine abbey - the largest in Austria.


    Vienna gardens

    Back on board for lunch, continue through the vineyards to the village of Durnstein. Take a guided afternoon tour in the romantic village with its iconic blue church and winding streets, and sample the local wines. Upon arrival in Vienna, opt for the "Sound of Vienna" concert and listen to popular pieces from Vienna's classical era at a local salon. The vessel remains overnight.

    DAY 13: VIENNA

    There is much to see and do in this imperial capital city. Enjoy the sights of Vienna on the "Highlights of Vienna" tour, including the Ringstrasse, the Vienna State Opera House, the Museum Quarter and more.

    In the afternoon, venture to Schonbrunn Palace, the sumptuous former summer palace of Empress Maria Theresia, or pay a visit to the Museum of Fine Arts, one of the most important art museums in the world with works by Rubens, Rembrandt and many more.

    Included:

    • "Highlights of Vienna" tour.
    • Tour of the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna.

    DAY 14: BRATISLAVA

    Awaken today in the capital city of Bratislava, Slovakia. Join the walking tour of Bratislava and see the home of the Slovak Philharmonic Orchestra, the old city walls, the summer residence of the archbishop and more.

    Later in the day, opt for an excursion to the Imperial Hof Palace in Austria, a magnificent 18th-century complex once owned by Empress Maria Theresia. For those who enjoy wineries, choose the alternate scenic drive through the Little Carpathian mountain range with its winemaking tradition, dating back to Celtic and Roman times. This evening, celebrate at the Captain's Gala Dinner.

    Included:

    • Captain's gala dinner.

    DAY 15: BUDAPEST

    With its neo-Gothic Parliament, Fisherman's Bastion, Buda Castle and Chain Bridge, the Hungarian capital of Budapest is a perfect finale to your trip. This morning, explore the sites of the Hungarian capital Budapest on a city tour.


    Budapest

    In the afternoon, food lovers can enjoy the alternate excursion "Vibrant Budapest" which starts at the market hall. Admire Budapest's famous thermal baths and, finally, make a stop at Cafe Gerbeaud, where you can order delicious Hungarian cakes and pastry.

    Alternatively, roam further afield in Pest county to the Royal Palace of Godollo, one of the most important and imposing Hungarian palaces. On board this evening, enjoy a Hungarian folklore show as your vessel cruises the Danube to see this beautiful gem by night. Remain overnight in the "Queen of the Danube".

    Included:

    • Budapest city tour.

    DAY 16: BUDAPEST

    After breakfast, the entire crew bids you farewell and wishes you a safe journey home.

    Take a taxi or Uber to your hotel and drop your bags there so you can spend some time exploiring the many wonders of Budapest to which you were introduced on the included city tour. Your Lonely Planet guide is the perfect resource for ideas.


    Prestige Hotel Budapest - Classic room

    ~~image_986~

    Tonight you'll be staying at one of the world's best hotels the "Prestige Hotel" with dinner and breakfast included. If you want to be able to check in before 2pm, that can be arranged.

    Included:

    • 5-star, diamond standard hotel accommodation.
    • Dinner (to the value of $75 per person.)
    • Breakfast.
    • Airport transfer.

    DAY 17: BUDAPEST - RETURN TO AUSTRALIA

    Today you'll be picked up for your transfer to the airport to return home.

    What an adventure! You'll be sure to want to return for another river cruise very soon.

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