A world beyond.
Hassle-free planning, regional Tour Directors & Local Guides, Handpicked hotels and inclusions, seamless transportation, VIP access, and rare Local Favourites that go beyond the guidebook. 

 

Adventure is knocking.
Turn “never thought I would” into “glad I did” with a budget-friendly tour that includes all the essentials plus a great mix of included excursions and free time. 

 

Cruising Elevated.
Cruise on Suite Ships with the widest stateroom views from your window-facing bed. Relaxed luxury flows throughout the ship in every detail plus personalise with Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions.

Back

From Romania To The North Sea With Bucharest And Transylvania

With bucharest and transylvania extension
BucharestAmsterdam
Overview
  • Overview
  • Highlights
  • Itinerary
  • Personalise Your Trip
  • Tour Director
Download Itinerary
DOWNLOAD ITINERARY
View Map
Map
Was 14,911 pp*
FROM
USD
13,224.50 pp*
BookDates & Prices
This enchanting European river cruise from Bucharest to Amsterdam is truly an adventure. In beautiful and mysterious Transylvania visit Peles Castle in Sinaia—considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Enjoy guided sightseeing of Brasov and a visit to Bran Castle of Dracula fame. In Romania’s lively capital, Bucharest, you’ll see the Arc de Triomphe, and the historical Royal Palace Square. Explore with guided sightseeing in Bulgaria’s ancient capital of Veliko Târnovo. Visit the Ethnographical Museum and Church of the Nativity in Arba-nassi and take pictures of Belogradchik’s eclectic group of rock formations and the spectacular views of the Iron Gates. Your Danube River cruise takes you to the capitals of three countries: Belgrade, Serbia; Budapest, Hungary; and Vienna, Austria, where Local Guides will show you the highlights with time to explore on your own. In the heart of the Wachau wine region, take a guided walk in charming Dürnstein, and later visit Melk’s famous Benedictine Abbey. In Germany, enjoy guided sightseeing in Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Würzburg. Cruise the Main Danube Canal, and pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. This extraordinary European river cruise concludes in Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam. Get a unique perspective of the city on a canal cruise along the elegant Grachten lined with homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” Experience the Danube River like never before, with the special experiences and discoveries revealed from Romania to the North Sea.

Map

Leisurely On the go

Countries
Meals
26breakfasts;
23lunches;
23dinners;
Transport
State-of-the-art, luxurious river cruise vessels with modern services and amenities
Accommodation
Deluxe outside accommodations with Avalon’s exclusive Comfort Collection Beds
Tour Code
WOAQ
Price
*Price per person, based on Twin occupancy for 26 August 2025 departure
CAT D
Highlights
Day 1

BUCHAREST, ROMANIA

Welcome to Bucharest-the "Paris of the East". The day is yours to relax and enjoy Bucharest. Spend some free time exploring this fascinating city on your own to discover its trendy shops, cafes, museums, beautiful homes, and churches along Victory Avenue.

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 0, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 2

BUCHAREST-SINAIA-BRASOV

Drive into the Carpathians to Sinaia to visit Peles Castle. On the way, enjoy a local lunch. This afternoon continue to Brasov for the night. (B,L)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 0

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 3

BRASOV

Join a morning Guided Sightseeing Tour of Brasov followed by free time. In the evening enjoy a tour of Bran Castle of Dracula lore followed by dinner. (B,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 4

BRASOV-BUCHAREST-OLTENITA (EMBARKATION)

CLASSIC Join a Guided Excursion in Bucharest, see the Royal Palace Square-the scene of the city's 1989 riots to overthrow the communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. Join your Avalon Suite Ship this afternoon, for embarkation in Oltenita. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO ROUSSE (B,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 5

ROUSSE, BULGARIA. VELIKO TARNOVO & ARBANASSI EXCURSION

Fortresses and Fountains in "Little Vienna" ACTIVE Join a bike tour in Rousse with your Avalon Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Bulgaria's largest inland port and visit its impressive Holy Trinity Church. Sail to Svistov, OR: CLASSIC Join a full-day Guided Tour to the former Bulgarian capital of Veliko Tarnovo-with its ancient stone houses clinging to the cliffs above the Yantra River. Discover one of the oldest towns in Bulgaria (circa 4300 BC), as well as Bulgarian Revival architecture in the 15th-century town of Arbanassi. Later, join your ship in Svistov. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIDIN (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 6

VIDIN

Rocks, ruins and Balkan Beauty Ask about today's energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities. ACTIVE Wander and discover this town, join your Adventure Host for a bike ride, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of Belogradchik. See the remarkable rock formations on the slopes of the Balkan Mountains, sculpted by 200 million years of nature's elements. Then, visit mighty Baba Vida Fortress in nearby Vidin. This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board with a Bulgarian folklore show. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO DONJI MILANOVAC (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 7

IRON GATES GORGE. EXCURSION TO LEPENSKI VIR, SERBIA

Ancient Artifacts and the Iron Gates Before lunch on board, you'll sail through the spectacular and narrow Iron Gates Gorge-forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour to Lepenski Vir-an important Mesolithic archaeological site chronicling prehistoric cultures, settlements, and art. Marvel at the ancient discoveries and artifacts, as well as the unique views the site affords of the Danube Gorge. Continue to the Fortress of Golubac, one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BELGRADE (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 8

BELGRADE, SERBIA

Fortresses and Folklore Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities. ACTIVE See Belgrade's central walkway with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Belgrade-where the Danube and Sava Rivers converge- and see the city's many fascinating sights, including Saint Sava, one of the world's largest Orthodox churches. You may choose to join an Optional Guided Biking Tour or spend remaining free time in Belgrade exploring Knez Mihailova Street-Belgrade's central pedestrian thoroughfare with many lively cafes, shops, and cultural spots. DISCOVERY Attend an onboard Lecture to learn about the rich history, destinations, and culture of the Balkan states. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO NOVI SAD (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 9

NOVI SAD

A Capital of Culture CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of Novi Sad, the second largest town in Serbia. Admire its Austro-Hungarian old town, with its baroque buildings, and ancient fortifications. ACTIVE Enjoy a walking tour in Novi Sad along the narrow streets that climb slowly to the top of the hill above the city to Petrovaradin Fortress, OR: DISCOVERY Experience the sweet life in Serbia with a visit and tasting at the Museum of Beekeeping and Zivanovic Wine Cellar in Sremski Karlovci. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ILOK (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 10

ILOK, CROATIA

Croatian Heritage and Hilltop Vintages DISCOVERY Take a walking tour of Ilok with a wine tasting in a local cellar with stories of Croatian tradition. Enjoy a short sailing to Vukovar during lunchtime. VUKOVAR, CROATIA The Heroic Town on the Danube CLASSIC Enjoy a walking tour of Vukovar, the city the largest river port in Croatia. This evening, enjoy live entertainment on board. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MOHACS (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 11

MOHACS, HUNGARY. EXCURSION TO PECS

Underground Tombs and Heavenly Music CLASSIC Join a morning Guided Sightseeing Tour of Mohacs-the quiet Danube harbor town with its historical memorial parks, statues, and distinctive churches. Tour the remarkable medieval St. Nicholas Watermill-one of only a few remaining watermills performing stone-ground grain processing, OR: CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour to nearby Pecs to see its 4th-century Christian underground tombs, murals, and Turkish architecture. You'll also enjoy an organ concert on your tour. AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BUDAPEST (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 12

BUDAPEST

Welcome to Budapest-Hungary's Captivating Capital ACTIVE Hike up to a magnificent viewpoint in Budapest with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided City Sightseeing, including the iconic Heroes' Square. Take in the beauty of Budapest while enjoying a free afternoon exploring such famous sights as the Chain Bridge. Get to know the city's cafes and pubs, or take a hike above the Danube. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BUDAPEST (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 13

BUDAPEST

War Heroes and Hot Water Visit the Adventure Centre for today's activities with your Adventure Host. This afternoon choose among the Optional Guided Excursions available or take a free day to explore, with time to take photographs on the Royal Palace grounds in this treasure trove of historical architecture. Try Budapest's famous thermal bath spas, then dine in a garden or rooftop eatery. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BRATISLAVA (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 14

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

Cathedral Coronations and a Crowning Castle ACTIVE Follow your Avalon Adventure Host on a short hike to lofty Bratislava Castle, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Walking Tour of Old Town's cobblestone streets to Town Hall. Visit the Gothic halls of St. Martin's Cathedral-Hungary's centuries-old coronation church. Alternatively, in your free time take a bicycle and a picnic from the ship to explore the local sights along the Danube. Later, enjoy live entertainment onboard. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIENNA (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 15

VIENNA, AUSTRIA

Royal Collections and Amusing Attractions ACTIVE Explore Vienna's Danube Island by bike with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Explore the Habsburg Empire with a morning Guided City Tour of Vienna's gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex-the winter residence of the Imperial Family, the iconic Vienna Opera House and stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral. Join a Guided Optional Excursion to Schonbrunn Palace - summer home of the Habsburg empire. You may also take a tram to Vienna's Prater amusement park or to one of the many museums nearby. Later, consider joining an Optional Excursion to attend Royal Waltz Concert in an elegant hall. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO DURNSTEIN (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 16

DURNSTEIN-WACHAU VALLEY

A King's Ransom and Castle Ruins ACTIVE Take a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins to take in the spectacular view of the village, Danube, and the Wachau Valley below, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Walk, and hear the legendary tale of King Richard the Lionheart-who was imprisoned in the castle above the village during the Crusades. Later, stretch out on the Sky Deck as you sail through the Wachau Valley past vineyards, castles, and charming villages on your way to Melk. MELK Frescoes Above and Vineyards Below ACTIVE Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a walk along the Danube river and around Melk, OR: CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of the frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ of Melk's Benedictine Abbey. DISCOVERY Later, enjoy a Wine Tasting on board as you prepare to sail to Passau. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PASSAU (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 17

PASSAU, GERMANY

Where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers Meet CLASSIC Join an afternoon Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful "City of Three Rivers." Alternatively, you may join a full day Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg, the city of Mozart, or a full day Guided Optional Excursion to the picturesque Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO REGENSBURG (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 18

REGENSBURG

Bavaria's Medieval Miracle ACTIVE Explore Walhalla by bike with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria-built in 179 AD as the entrance to Castra Regina fortress. You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the Benedictine Monastery in Weltenburg. Spend a free afternoon exploring Regensburg on foot or by bike through its charming streets. This evening, enjoy live entertainment after dinner as you cruise toward Roth. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO ROTH (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 19

ROTH. EXCURSION TO NUREMBERG

Legends and History Lessons DISCOVERY Enjoy an Onboard Lecture about the Main-Danube Canal-linking these two rivers to make a vital connection enabling navigation between the North and Black Seas. CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the Bavarian town of Roth-with its half-timbered houses, market square, and 1535 hunting lodge, Schloss Ratibor, OR: CLASSIC Choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg's medieval architecture, gilded fountain, gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds-used by the Third Reich. Tonight, relax onboard with live entertainment as you sail to Bamberg. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BAMBERG (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 20

BAMBERG

The City of Seven Hills ACTIVE Your bike is ready! Hop on and bike along the canals in Bamberg with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of the former home to imperial dynasties, and see its Romanesque cathedral, Old Town Hall, and seven hills crowned with churches. DISCOVERY Attend an onboard lecture to learn about European history and culture. AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VOLKACH (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 21

VOLKACH

Storybook Settings ACTIVE Bike along the Main Danube Canal with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Join a Walking Tour of the quaint town of Volkach with its half-timbered houses and cobblestoned streets. You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the beautiful Bavarian town of Rothenburg. See the local sights and enjoy the fairytale atmosphere that has inspired artists. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing afternoon while cruising to Kitzingen. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN KITZINGEN (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 22

WURZBURG

A Perfect Day in the Pearl of the Romantic Road ACTIVE Enjoy an easy bike ride along the river with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Wurzburg with its Old Main Bridge, towering fortress, and baroque Bishop's Residenz-with the largest known ceiling fresco. This afternoon enjoy a leisurely sailing afternoon. AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MILTENBERG (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 23

MILTENBERG

Beauty on the Main River Join your Adventure Host for today's special activities. CLASSIC Join a Guided Walking Tour of Miltenberg, a showcase of medieval half-timber homes and home to Germany's oldest inn. Later, enjoy onboard entertainment as you cruise to Rudesheim. AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO RUDESHEIM (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 24

RUDESHEIM-RHINE GORGE

Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country ACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rudesheim, OR: ACTIVE Take an open-air cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument. Ride or walk back down through the vineyards; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rudesheimer coffee, OR: DISCOVERY Tour the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rudesheimer coffee. This afternoon cruise through the dramatic Rhine Gorge and see the famous rock of the Lorelei-where mythological siren lured ill-fated sailors to shore. DISCOVERY Enjoy a remarkable classical music concert in a lovely baroque venue at Engers Castle, home to the Villa Musica Rhineland-Palatinate National Foundation, one of Germany's largest music institutions. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ENGERS (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 25

COLOGNE

Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland Ask about today's energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities. ACTIVE Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR: DISCOVERY Join a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne's important Jewish heritage sites, OR: CLASSIC Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne-explore the Old City and see its soaring twin-steepled Gothic cathedral. Spend free time over a glass of Kolsch pale lager-locally brewed for over 100 years! AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AMSTERDAM (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 26

AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND

Colourful Canals of Amsterdam ACTIVE Start your day joining your Adventure Host on an early morning walk in Amsterdam, OR: DISCOVERY Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, OR: CLASSIC Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam with a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam's "Golden Age." In the afternoon you may join an Optional Culinary Walk through Amsterdam to sample savoury and sweet Dutch specialties. Or choose an Optional Biking Tour to discover the countryside. You might also consider a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. Spend free time on your own to explore the colourful cafes, galleries, bridges, and canals of Amsterdam. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM (B,L,D)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 1, Dinner: 1

SHIP(S) *

No Vessel information available

SHOW
Day 27

AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION)

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)

INCLUDED MEALS

Breakfast: 1, Lunch: 0, Dinner: 0

SHOW
*

TRIP ACCOMMODATION & OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

The displayed price is a guide only. You will be able to book most excursions within MyAccount up to 4 days prior to excursion date, where the exact price will be displayed. For Australia and New Zealand tours, optional excursions can be booked on tour with the Tour Director. All excursions are subject to availability.

Personalise your trip

Available extensions (2)

This enchanting European river cruise from Bucharest to Amsterdam is truly an adventure. In beautiful and mysterious Transylvania visit Peles Castle in Sinaia—considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. Enjoy guided sightseeing of Brasov and a visit to Bran Castle of Dracula fame. In Romania’s lively capital, Bucharest, you’ll see the Arc de Triomphe, and the historical Royal Palace Square. Explore with guided sightseeing in Bulgaria’s ancient capital of Veliko Târnovo. Visit the Ethnographical Museum and Church of the Nativity in Arba-nassi and take pictures of Belogradchik’s eclectic group of rock formations and the spectacular views of the Iron Gates. Your Danube River cruise takes you to the capitals of three countries: Belgrade, Serbia; Budapest, Hungary; and Vienna, Austria, where Local Guides will show you the highlights with time to explore on your own. In the heart of the Wachau wine region, take a guided walk in charming Dürnstein, and later visit Melk’s famous Benedictine Abbey. In Germany, enjoy guided sightseeing in Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg, Bamberg, and Würzburg. Cruise the Main Danube Canal, and pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. This extraordinary European river cruise concludes in Holland’s popular, modern capital of Amsterdam. Get a unique perspective of the city on a canal cruise along the elegant Grachten lined with homes dating back to the city’s “Golden Age.” Experience the Danube River like never before, with the special experiences and discoveries revealed from Romania to the North Sea.

Map

Leisurely On the go

Countries
Meals
26breakfasts;
23lunches;
23dinners;
Transport
State-of-the-art, luxurious river cruise vessels with modern services and amenities
Accommodation
Deluxe outside accommodations with Avalon’s exclusive Comfort Collection Beds
Tour Code
WOAQ
Price
*Price per person, based on Twin occupancy for 26 August 2025 departure
CAT D

Next Section

Highlights