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Rhine, Main & Danube | Amsterdam to Bucharest: 22-Nights

Price $12990 $12890 23 Days/22 Nights
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Rhine, Main & Danube | Amsterdam to Bucharest: 22-Nights

$12990 $12890 per person

*Prices are CAD per person, based on 2 people sharing. From price shown is the lead in rate for June 2025 departures, and the discounted rate includes the member benefit. Additional offers will apply when available.  

From Amsterdam to Bucharest, discover the highlights of Europe over the course of this enchanting 23-day itinerary. Cruise the Rhine, Main & Danube on an epic journey which takes you through nine of Europe’s countries including Austria, Croatia, Serbia & Romania.

What’s Included: 

  • 21 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
  • 1 night in a hotel in Bucharest
  • Airport transfers to and from the ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises Cruise Director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Canal cruise in Amsterdam
  • Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town
  • Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Museum
  • Guided Tour of Miltenberg
  • Walking tour of Wurzburg & Visit to UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bishop Residence
  • Guided Tour of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bamberg
  • Guided tour of Nuremberg
  • Guided tour of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Regensburg
  • Guided tour of Passau
  • Tour of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Melk Abbey
  • Guided tour of Vienna
  • Walking tour of Bratislava
  • Guided coach tour of Budapest
  • A guided walking tour of Osijek Fortress
  • Guided tour of Belgrade
  • Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum
  • Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress
  • Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi
  • Guided drive through of Bucharest with visit of Spring Palace
  • Exclusive visit to the Glass Art Museum in Wertheim with presentation
  • Traditional Bavarian band performance on board
  • Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
  • Hungarian folklore show performance on board
  • A Puszta horse show
  • Meet the local students
  • Home hosted lunch with a Croatian family
  • Serbian Folklore band evening show
  • Choir Concert in Arbanasi
  • Guided bike tour to Waterland
  • Hike to Niederwalddenkmal
  • Active walk to Mildenburg Castle
  • A guided bike tour along the Danube River
  • Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle
  • Guided bike tour in Vienna
  • Guided hike to Bratislava castle
  • Hike to Buda Hill
  • Guide bike tour in Belgrade
  • Donji Milanovac by bike
  • Trek to Adica Park
  • Guided hike to Belogradchick Fortress
  • Guided hike to Ivanovo Church
  • 62 superb meals including 22 Breakfasts (B), 19 Lunches (L), 21 Dinners (D) Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board

MEMBER BENEFIT:

As a Trip Merchant Member you save an additional $100 CAD Per Person. Combinable with current offers. Must book with Trip Merchant. Offer Code: TMEMERALD

Current savings available for select river cruise itineraries and departures. Please contact Trip Merchant to find out what is available!

Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext 0
Mention Promo Code for Savings: TMEMERALD

Departure Dates

Amsterdam to Bucharest Sailings
May 10
Amsterdam to Bucharest Sailings
April 12, 26
June 3, 7
August 30
Bucharest to Amsterdam Sailing
May 2
June 23
  • Destination
  • Arrival City
    Amsterdam, Netherlands
  • Departure City
    Bucharest, Romania
  • Activity Level
    Leisurely
  • Passenger Limit
    182
1
Arrive in 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 your luxurious 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.
Meals Provided: Dinner
 
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’s residences that reflect a time when Amsterdam was one of the most lucrative ports in the world. If you are 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.
EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Waterland
Included Excursion Canal cruise
DiscoverMORE Haarlem Discovery Visit (extra expense)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
3
Cologne
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, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. Your tour will conclude at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, shop for trinkets or explore further before returning to your ship.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 
4
Rüdesheim
Today’s cruising will be a highlight of your trip, as we meander through the fairytale-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.
EmeraldACTIVE - Hike to Niederwalddenkmal
Included Excursion - Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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. Alternatively, 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, we will venture to the charming town of Wertheim where, as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, you will have an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum.
EmeraldPLUS - Exclusive visit to the Glass Art Museum in Wertheim with presentation
EmeraldACTIVE -  Active walk to Mildenburg Castle
Included Excursion - Guided tour of Miltenberg
DiscoverMORE - Vineyard visit & Franconian wine (extra expense)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7
Bamberg
This morning, relax on the Sun Deck with a drink in hand or 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.
Included Excursion -  Guided tour of Bamberg

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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: WW2 Tour (extra expense)
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 and, 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, in the present. 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. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Bavarian band performance onboard
EmeraldPLUS - Bavarian band performance on board
Included Excursion - Guided tour of Regensburg
DiscoverMORE - Visit to a local brewery (extra expense)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 before settling down for a picnic lunch on the riverbanks. EmeraldACTIVE: A guided biking tour along the Danube River OR EmeraldACTIVE: A guided hike to Dürnstein Castle
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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. EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike Tour
Included Excursion - Guided tour of Vienna
DiscoverMORE: Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense) AND / or DiscoverMORE: Exclusive Viennese concert with music from Mozart and Strauss (extra expense)
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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.
EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
 
EmeraldACTIVE - Guided hike to Bratislava Castle
 
Included Excursion - Walking tour of Bratislava
 
DiscoverMORE - Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
14
Budapest
Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Enjoy a guided tour of the city sights including the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge linking Buda and Pest or an exciting hike on the Buda Hill. This evening, enjoy a traditional Hungarian farewell dinner, then a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board. EmeraldACTIVE: A guided active walk to Buda Hill EmeraldPLUS: Traditional Hungarian Folklore Show & Budapest Evening Cruise DiscoverMORE: Jewish Heritage Tour (extra expense)
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
15
Budapest
Today is a full day at leisure in Budapest. Your Cruise Director will be on hand to assist on you how best to spend your day. Perhaps a visit to the city market, enjoy relaxing at the local thermal baths. This evening, relax on board as you watch an authentic Hungarian folklore show and indulge in a dinner of traditional cuisine.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
16
Kalocsa
This morning, we’ll reach Kalocsa, best known for its vibrant paprika festivals. You’ll venture to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, for a traditional performance showcasing the exceptional equestrian skills of the Magyar cowboys. Relax as you watch their spectacular horse parade and witness their exercise drills. Tonight, your crew will welcome you for a welcome dinner & reception. EmeraldPLUS: Visit to Puszta Horse Farm
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
17
Aljmas - Osijek
This morning, we will drive to Osijek, a historic university town full of leafy boulevards and promenades. Today, you will meet students from a local village who will then perform for you during your EmeraldPLUS excursion, before you embark on a walk around Osijek Fortress, nestled in the centre of the romantic old town. Later, sail further down the Danube and into Serbia, where remnants of recent conflicts can be seen on the riverbanks.
EmeraldPLUS - Home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family
EmeraldPLUS - Meet the local students
EmeraldACTIVE - Trek to Adica
Included Excursion - Guided walking tour of Osijek Fortress
DiscoverMORE - Vucedol Culture Museum (extra expense)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
18
Belgrade
The capital of Serbia awaits you today, as a city tour introduces you to the highlights of one of Europe’s oldest cities, including Belgrade Fortress. Relax as your coach takes you through the centre of this peaceful city and witness the symmetrical façade of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the world’s largest church buildings. Stop for a tour of the Museum of Yugoslavia or learn about the history of Belgrade during a guided bike tour of the city. This evening, relax in the Horizon Lounge and watch a traditional Serbian folklore show.
EmeraldPLUS - Serbian folklore evening show on board
EmeraldACTIVE - Guided bike tour in Belgrade
Included Excursion - Guided tour of Belgrade
DiscoverMORE - National Opera Theatre tour (extra expense)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
19
Golubac – Donji Milanovac
In eastern Serbia, within the Majdanpek municipality, the town of Donji Milanovac sits on the right bank of the Danube. Today, you will have the opportunity to visit the Palaeolithic site of Lepenski Vir on an included excursion. Enjoy learning about the importance of this archaeological site and its illustrious history, spanning more than 8 millennia. The day ends as we sail through the Iron Gates, a picturesque narrow gorge that meanders between the Carpathian Mountains and the European Alps.
Included Excursion  - Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum
EmeraldACTIVE - Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum Donji Milanovac by bike

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
20
Vidin
This morning, we’ll arrive in Vidin, a beautiful town in north-west Bulgaria, renowned for its wine production. Your included tour will introduce you to the best of Vidin’s viticulture, as you stroll through a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting of their produce. Later, venture to Baba Vida, a medieval fortress whose name can be translated to mean “Granny Vida”. Alternatively, hike to Belogradchik Fortress, a well-preserved stronghold that sits against a series of impressive rock formations.
EmeraldACTIVE - Hike to Belogradchik Fortress
Included Excursion - Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress
DiscoverMORE - Traditional Bulgarian pastry making

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
21
Rousse – Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanasi
Today, your Star-Ship will cruise into Rousse, where you will have the opportunity to visit Veliko Tarnovo. The former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, this medieval city was built atop three hills and its fortifications and cobbled streets are certain to delight history lovers. Nearby, Arbanasi sits on a high plateau overlooking the Yantra River. Each street in the area is lined with traditional houses, and old churches offer centuries of exploration during your guided tour. Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of churches, chapels and monasteries. Tonight, your crew will welcome you on board for a farewell dinner.
 
EmeraldPLUS -Choir concert in Arbanasi
 
EmeraldACTIVE - Guided hike to Ivanovo Church
 
Included Excursion - Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi
 
DiscoverMORE - Paint & Wine (extra expense)
 
DiscoverMORE - Wine tasting at Leventa Complex (extra expense)

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
22
Giurgiu Disembarkation - Bucharest
This morning, relax and enjoy the passing scenery as we drive towards Bucharest, including the Romanian city of Giurgiu, set amongst the mud flats and marshes of the Danube. Visit the Spring Palace and the private residence of Nicolae Ceausescu, before enjoying free time to explore the city at leisure. Learn about Bucharest’s vibrant history on a guided coach tour, passing by the Palace of Parliament. This evening, settle into the comfortable surrounds of your hotel and perhaps go for a stroll down one of the wide avenues or leafy boulevards that give Bucharest a distinctly French feel.
Included Excursion - Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Dinner
23
Bucharest Farewell
After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Great Hungarian Plain and medieval fortresses with you. water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information. Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.
Meals Provided: Breakfast
24
Call for assistance: 1-800-481-9739 ext 1
Mention Promo Code for Savings: TMEMERALD

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The ship you sail on depends on which departure date you choose. Emerald Waterways has 4 ships that sail on this itinerary; (click on the Download PDF Deck/Cabin Plan to check them all out and don't forget to watch the videos)

  • Emerald Sky
  • Emerald Dawn
  • Emerald Star
  • Emerald Sun

Download PDF Deck/Cabin Plan