Welcome to Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands where timeless history and contemporary energy come together in perfect harmony. After clearing customs and collecting your luggage, you will be greeted by your Vantage Explorations Representative and transferred to the pier. Step aboard the elegant Viva Enjoy and take a moment to explore the ship’s inviting amenities as you settle into your comfortable cabin, your home for the next 15 days of exploration and unforgettable experiences. This evening, enjoy the opportunity to meet the warm and attentive crew along with your fellow travelers as the ship overnights in port, offering you a first taste of Amsterdam’s enchanting ambiance.
After a leisurely breakfast onboard, embark on a panoramic exploration of Amsterdam, a city where centuries of history and cutting-edge innovation blend seamlessly. Your guided tour begins with a comfortable drive through this dynamic capital, offering a sweeping view of both its storied past and vibrant present.
Pass by some of Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks, including Central Station, the world-famous Heineken Brewery, the historic Jewish Quarter, and the striking Maritime Museum. You’ll also catch glimpses of the city’s bold contemporary side, with architectural highlights like the Eye Film Museum and the futuristic A'DAM Lookout across the IJ River.
The experience continues with a visit to one of the world’s great cultural treasures: the Rijksmuseum. Within its grand halls, your expert guide leads you through the Gallery of Honor, where masterpieces by Dutch Golden Age painters such as Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals await. Learn the stories behind the art and discover how these timeless works continue to reflect the spirit of the Netherlands.
After this rich immersion into Amsterdam’s artistic and cultural legacy, return to the ship just in time for a delightful lunch onboard. The afternoon brings a new chapter of your journey as the ship gently departs, offering an afternoon and evening of scenic cruising, providing an ideal time to unwind and reflect on the inspiring beauty of Amsterdam.
Spend the morning at ease as your ship glides along the mighty Rhine River, where each twist and turn reveals postcard-perfect views of rolling hills dotted with vineyards, medieval spires rising from quiet villages, and timeless castles perched above the waterline. The river unfolds like a living storybook, inviting you to slow down and take it all in.
After a relaxing lunch onboard, arrive in the historic city of Cologne, a cultural treasure with roots stretching back over two millennia. Here, your coach awaits to whisk you into the heart of Brühl, where one of Germany’s most opulent architectural masterpieces stands ready to impress: Augustusburg Castle.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dazzling expression of European rococo design, once home to Clemens August, Prince-Elector and Archbishop of Cologne. On a guided tour through its grand salons, sweeping corridors, and richly decorated chambers, you’ll step into the splendor of 18th-century aristocratic life.
At the heart of the castle lies the legendary grand staircase, a swirling vision of artistry and engineering by Balthasar Neumann, considered one of the greatest triumphs of rococo architecture in Europe. As you explore, your guide brings the palace to life with stories of courtly intrigue, lavish celebrations, and the enduring legacy of its noble past.
Please note: Exploring Augustusburg Castle involves stair climbing and may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
After your visit, return to the ship with time to relax and reflect on the day’s discoveries before gathering for a delightful dinner onboard. As night falls, the ship casts off once more, continuing your adventure toward the next unforgettable destination along the Rhine.
As you enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard, your ship docks in Koblenz, a city steeped in history and crowned by its spectacular location at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Nestled within the UNESCO-designated Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Koblenz is a place where legend, landscape, and centuries of tradition converge.
Begin your morning with a short walk from the ship into the heart of this storied city, where a hidden gem awaits: the historic Deinhard sparkling wine cellar, founded in 1794. With over 200 years of winemaking heritage, this remarkable site offers a fascinating glimpse into Germany’s sparkling wine legacy.
On your guided tour, step beneath the surface of the city into atmospheric vaulted cellars where time seems to stand still. Surrounded by original tools and aging bottles, you’ll learn how sparkling wine has been crafted here since 1843 using the traditional Champagne method. Discover the delicate art of riddling and disgorging, and gain an appreciation for the skill, patience, and precision that go into every bottle. The experience is both immersive and enlightening, a true toast to craftsmanship and heritage.
After the tour, return to the ship just in time for a delicious lunch as we begin our journey toward Mainz. Along the way, the river winds through some of its most dramatic scenery. One of the most iconic sights is the Lorelei Rock, a towering slate cliff shrouded in myth and mystery. According to legend, the siren Lorelei once sat atop this very rock, singing sailors to their doom with her irresistible song. Today, the Lorelei remains one of the Rhine’s most legendary and photographed landmarks.
This evening, enjoy a relaxed dinner onboard before arriving in Mainz, where the ship will remain docked overnight. With the evening at your leisure, take time to stroll the riverside promenade, savor the atmosphere of this charming city, or simply unwind as the Rhine sparkles under the starlit sky.
After breakfast onboard, set out on a delightful walking tour that begins right from the ship’s dock. Step into the heart of Mainz, a city steeped in history and vibrant culture. This capital of Rhineland-Palatinate traces its roots back to Roman times and invites you to wander its most picturesque corners.
Admire the grandeur of the Mainz Cathedral, an architectural marvel that commands the city skyline. Stroll through the enchanting old town where narrow lanes wind past charming half-timbered houses and colorful facades. Pause in the bustling marketplace to soak in the cheerful atmosphere and admire the blend of past and present that defines this city.
As you walk, uncover the legacy of Johannes Gutenberg and the innovations that changed the world. Feel the warmth of Rhineland hospitality and the energy that flows through Mainz’s streets. Upon your return to the ship, enjoy a leisurely lunch as the vessel gently sets sail once more. Spend your afternoon and evening indulging in the beauty of scenic cruising along the river.
Spend a relaxing morning on board as the ship glides along the river, offering scenic views on the way to the charming town of Wertheim. Nestled at the confluence of the Tauber and Main rivers, Wertheim welcomes you with its fairytale beauty and centuries of history. After a delicious lunch on board, the ship docks and your afternoon walking tour begins.
Step into a storybook setting as you wander through narrow lanes lined with delightful half-timbered houses and the remnants of the historic city wall. The heart of Wertheim is its inviting marketplace, where cozy cafés create the perfect setting to pause and soak in the town’s friendly atmosphere. Marvel at the impressive architecture of the collegiate church and St. Martin’s Chapel and gaze up at the imposing Wertheim Castle perched above the rooftops, offering a dramatic backdrop to your visit.
After the tour, return to the ship with time to unwind or continue your own adventure through the town’s welcoming streets. As evening falls and you savor dinner onboard, the ship sets sail once more, carrying you onward to your next destination.
After a tranquil morning of scenic cruising, the ship arrives mid-day in Würzburg, the heart of the Franconian wine region. This enchanting city is renowned for its elegant baroque and Rococo architecture, its deep-rooted wine culture, and its vibrant student population. Step ashore for a guided tour that showcases the soul of this historic city and its celebrated viticulture.
Würzburg’s skyline is graced by some sixty churches, with highlights including the grand St. Kilian’s Cathedral, the Gothic charm of St. Mary’s Church, and the Romanesque splendor of the Neumünster. Learn about the city’s influential role as a medieval ecclesiastical center while taking in the exquisite architecture that defines its character. A visit to the gardens of the Residenz, the former palace of the prince-bishops and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into one of Europe's most magnificent baroque masterpieces, complete with an ornate court church and beautifully landscaped grounds.
The tour concludes at the Old Main Bridge, where a local wine expert awaits to guide you through a tasting of two premium Franconian wines. Savor each sip as you take in sweeping views of Marienberg Fortress, the Käppele pilgrimage church, and the timeless beauty of the Main River. Return to the ship just in time for dinner as the vessel gently departs Würzburg and continues its journey toward the next captivating destination.
Delight in a full day of scenic cruising as the ship gently winds its way along the river, offering panoramic views of the tranquil landscape. In the early afternoon, the ship makes a brief operational stop in Hassfurt before continuing its journey downstream. By evening, we arrive in the captivating city of Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its fairytale charm and remarkably preserved old town.
Bamberg enchants with its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture, where every corner tells a story. The city's most iconic thoroughfare, Sandstrasse, weaves through the heart of the old town, leading you past historic façades and vibrant local life. Rising above the city is the Romanesque cathedral of St. Peter and St. George, known as the Kaiserdom. Here, the tombs of King Heinrich and Queen Kunigunde rest beneath soaring arches. Adjacent to the cathedral is the Alte Hofhaltung, a Renaissance masterpiece now home to the city’s historical museum. Just across the square stands the Neue Residenz, the opulent former home of Bamberg’s prince bishops, surrounded by an exquisite rose garden that bursts into color each season.
No visit to Bamberg is complete without admiring the Old Town Hall, a striking structure dramatically perched above the river, connected by two picturesque bridges. As night falls, the ship sets sail once again, leaving the glowing city lights of Bamberg behind as we cruise onward to the next destination.
As you savor breakfast onboard, the ship arrives in Nuremberg, an independent city in the Free State of Bavaria renowned for its captivating medieval charm. The ancient city walls, cobbled streets, and imposing imperial castle paint a vivid picture of the city's storied past. Nuremberg is also beloved for its festive spirit, most famously brought to life during its world-renowned Christmas market.
Step ashore and board a comfortable coach that takes you on a journey through history. Pass by notable sites such as the expansive Zeppelin Field and the picturesque outskirts of the city, where centuries of tradition blend seamlessly with everyday life. Your guided adventure begins at the Kaiserburg, the majestic imperial castle that crowns the city. From here, meander downhill through Nuremberg's enchanting old town, taking in landmarks such as the scenic Burgterrasse, the historic Albrecht Dürer House, the striking St. Sebald Church, and the grand old City Hall.
The tour concludes in the lively market square, where the aroma of spiced gingerbread and sizzling Nuremberg bratwurst fills the air. You may choose to pause and sample these local delights while admiring the impressive architecture that surrounds the square, including the city’s beloved churches and bustling market stalls. Afterwards, return to the ship. As you settle in for a leisurely lunch onboard, the ship quietly departs, continuing its voyage along the river to the next captivating destination.
As you enjoy a leisurely breakfast onboard as your ship arrives in Regensburg, one of Europe’s best preserved medieval cities and a UNESCO World Heritage treasure. Framed by the Danube and echoing with over two millennia of history, Regensburg offers a blend of ancient charm and sophisticated vitality.
Your exploration begins with a privately guided walking tour through the city’s enchanting Old Town. Meander along cobbled streets lined with stately patrician houses, pass beneath centuries-old archways, and admire the soaring Gothic spires of St. Peter’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of medieval architecture. With each step, your expert guide reveals the stories, secrets, and cultural layers that shaped this remarkable city.
A signature moment of your journey is a visit to the historic Wurstkuchl, a riverside culinary icon in continuous operation for over 500 years. Originally serving stonemasons and boatmen, this atmospheric tavern now welcomes travelers with the same beloved fare: handcrafted sausages grilled over open flame and served with its legendary house-made mustard, still prepared to a 19th-century recipe.
Here, heritage meets indulgence. Enjoy this authentic bite of Bavarian tradition as the Danube sparkles beside you, an experience as rich in flavor as it is in history.
Return to your ship for lunch as the remainder of your day is at your leisure. Later tonight, your vessel slips away from Regensburg, resuming its elegant course along the Danube, carrying you toward the next chapter of your river adventure.
As you enjoy breakfast onboard, the ship arrives Passau, gracefully set at the meeting point of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Known as the Bavarian Venice, Passau enchants with its riverside beauty and richly layered history. Towering above the town is the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century fortress that has watched over the city for centuries. The old town, a harmonious blend of pastel facades and baroque elegance, invites exploration at every turn.
Join a guided walking tour through this historic gem and discover the architectural splendor of the prince-bishops' residences and the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral. With its dramatic organ, one of the largest in the world, and richly adorned interior, the cathedral is a highlight of Passau’s spiritual and cultural life. Wander cobblestone streets and soak in the graceful atmosphere that defines this riverside treasure. Return to the ship in time for lunch, then enjoy a relaxing afternoon and evening at your leisure. While you are enjoying dinner on board, the ship will continue your journey along the mighty Danube River.
After breakfast onboard, the ship arrives in Melk, known as the gateway to the Wachau Valley. As the vessel approaches this historic town on the Danube, your eyes are drawn to the majestic Melk Abbey perched high above the river. A jewel of Baroque architecture and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the abbey has been a spiritual and cultural beacon since 1089, cared for by the Benedictine monks for over nine centuries.
Your guided tour of Melk Abbey begins in the stately Prelate’s Court, where the refined elegance of Baroque design sets the tone for what lies ahead. Explore the former imperial chambers, now transformed into museum spaces that reveal the abbey’s rich history and the visits of royal guests. Step into the Marble Hall, resplendent with its dramatic ceiling fresco, and pause on the Altane terrace to take in sweeping views of the Danube Valley. The Abbey Library is a true treasure, housing over 80,000 volumes beneath an awe-inspiring ceiling painted by Paul Troger. Conclude your tour with a visit to the baroque collegiate church, a masterpiece of ornate beauty and spiritual grandeur.
Return to the ship in time for lunch as it sets sail once more. Spend a peaceful afternoon enjoying scenic cruising through the picturesque Wachau Valley. This evening, as you dine onboard, the ship arrives in the grand city of Vienna where it will remain docked overnight, inviting you to look forward to the discoveries yet to come.
This morning you wake up in Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria. Famed for its imperial palaces, music, and historic charm, Vienna’s city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin the day with a scenic drive past the State Opera, Musikverein, and Karlsplatz, then enjoy a guided walk from Hofburg Palace to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Pause to admire the cathedral, visit a classic Viennese café, or browse Kärntner Strasse. The tour continues along the grand Ringstrasse, passing landmarks like the Parliament and City Hall. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon of scenic cruising. This evening includes a brief stop in Bratislava before sailing onward.
As you enjoy breakfast onboard, the ship arrives in Budapest, Hungary’s enchanting capital. Begin your panoramic tour on the lively Pest side with a visit to St. Stephen’s Basilica, followed by a drive along Andrássy Avenue past the State Opera to Heroes’ Square. Glide through the city center and take in the grand architecture lining the bustling Grand Boulevard.
Cross the iconic Chain Bridge to the Buda side, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views from Gellért Hill and a scenic drive through the historic Castle District. From the riverside, capture stunning views of Buda Castle and the Parliament building, two of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
As the tour concludes, return to the ship with time to relax or explore more of the city at your leisure. Tonight, gather for a festive farewell dinner onboard. After dinner, the ship repositions to the disembarkation pier as you enjoy your final night on the river.
After a final breakfast onboard, bid búcsú to your fellow travelers and the crew of the Viva Enjoy as you disembark and transfer to the Budapest Airport for your journey home with wonderful memories of your time along the Danube.
Please Note: Disembarkation begins at 930AM. We recommend you schedule your flight to depart on or after 1:30PM
Please Note: that while every effort is made to provide the excursions outlined in your itinerary, unforeseen changes may occasionally occur without prior notice. We appreciate your understanding and flexibility.
