This is the best way to see Europe

With AmaWaterways

Author

Ted Blank
August 19, 2026

TED TALKS CRUISES

Today’s Cruise 🚢

⚓ Ted’s Take

  • Perfect for couples, culture lovers, history buffs, and travelers who want to see Europe without constantly unpacking.

  • 15 unforgettable days (Itinerary)

  • Fares from $7,409 per guest (Fares)

  • Sail aboard AmaWaterways (Ship)

📍Destination: Budapest → Amsterdam

🚨 Ted Talk’s Cruises Exclusive Offer

As a Ted Talk’s Cruises exclusive member, your voyage comes with a treat: Shipboard Credit Per Person ($150)

QUIZ

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ITINERARY

There are plenty of ways to see Europe.

This might be the best.

Instead of rushing through airports, packing and unpacking every few days, or spending half your vacation on trains, you'll wake up each morning in a new storybook destination while your floating boutique hotel quietly carries you there overnight.

Over 15 days, you'll journey through five countries and three legendary rivers—the Danube, Main, and Rhine.

You'll stroll through imperial Vienna, sip wine in Austria's Wachau Valley, explore medieval German villages, cruise through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, and finish among Amsterdam's famous canals.

One day you're standing beneath the soaring towers of Cologne Cathedral. The next you're tasting smoked beer in Bamberg or wandering cobblestone streets that haven't changed in centuries.

The beauty of a river cruise is how effortlessly it all happens.

No long bus rides.

No airport security lines.

No stress.

Just beautiful scenery drifting past your balcony, incredible local cuisine, fascinating history, and enough free time to explore Europe at your own pace.

If you've always dreamed of seeing Europe's greatest cities and hidden gems in one trip, this itinerary belongs near the top of your list.

AmaLea

Voyage dates: March 27, 2027 – April 10, 2027

Day 1: Board your ship in one of Europe's most beautiful capitals. Budapest, Hungary. Spend time admiring the Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion, and the glowing city skyline before setting sail.

Day 2: Bratislava, Slovakia. Explore the charming Old Town, colorful architecture, and historic squares during a guided walking tour through Slovakia's capital.

Days 3: Discover imperial palaces, grand boulevards, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the elegant atmosphere that made Vienna, Austria famous throughout Europe.

Day 4: Wander through the picturesque village of Dürnstein & Melk, Austria. Sample local wines, or visit the stunning Melk Abbey overlooking the Danube.

Ready to Set Sail?

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WELCOME ABOARD!

  • Cruise through 5 countries and 3 iconic European rivers without ever changing hotels.

  • Spacious staterooms and suites designed for comfort and panoramic river views.

  • Daily guided excursions included throughout the journey.

  • Locally inspired dining showcasing regional flavors from Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and the Netherlands.

  • Relaxing sun deck perfect for watching castles, vineyards, and charming villages drift by.

  • Intimate river cruising experience with attentive service and fewer guests than traditional ocean cruises.

Inside the AmaLea

ARE YOU IN?

This trip is definitely for you if you…

  • Dream of seeing Europe's most famous cities and hidden villages in one vacation.

  • Prefer cultural experiences over crowded tourist attractions.

  • Love history, architecture, wine, and local cuisine.

  • Want the convenience of unpacking once while exploring multiple countries.

  • Enjoy a slower, more immersive style of travel.

  • Are traveling as a couple, with friends, or celebrating a special occasion.

The Confident Cruiser Podcast

That’s all for today. For more cruise content, check out The Confident Cruiser Podcast →