Splendours of Europe

Overview

Splendours of Europe

From Amsterdam to Budapest, discover the highlights of Europe over the course of this enchanting 15-day itinerary, which whisks you from the Netherlands to Hungary via the continent’s most breath-taking destinations. The great waterways that flow across Europe make light work of showcasing the continent’s most enriching and unforgettable destinations. From the North Sea coast in the Netherlands all the way to the Black Sea in Ukraine; the Rhine, Main and Danube provide seamless passage to the very heart of Europe, so you can experience all its many wonders. Our 15-day Splendours of Europe river cruise navigates this network of waterways, giving you the chance to enjoy the cultural wonders of such destinations as Amsterdam, Cologne, Passau, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest in one unforgettable journey. Setting forth in the Netherlands, you’ll experience the World Heritage-listed Gothic cathedral of Cologne; the wonderful medieval architecture of Bamberg; a guided tour of beautiful Passau and Vienna; and an enchanting traditional folklore show in the extraordinary Hungarian capital of Budapest.

Whats included

  • Return flights
  • Airport transfers to and from the ship
  • The services of an Emerald Waterways Cruise Director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities

Hand Picked By

Simon De Burgh

An Emerald Waterways river cruise introduces the highlights of ocean cruising to the intimacy of Europe's waterways. Comfort and innovation combine on board their state-of-the-art Star-Ships, boasting an exciting variety of luxurious on-board amenities and inclusions. Their award-winning promise of Exceptional Emerald Value ensures your peace-of-mind, with everything you could need included in the price of your trip. From return flights, all transfers and on-board tips, to every thoughtful, chef-prepared meal and complimentary drinks served with lunch and dinner.

Simon De Burgh

Additional Information

  • Departure Date: June - October 2021
  • Duration: 14 nights
  • Highlights: From Amsterdam to Budapest, discover the highlights of Europe over the course of this enchanting 15-day itinerary, which whisks you from the Netherlands to Hungary via the continent’s most breath-taking destinations.

Ship Overview

Emerald Star

Navigating the rivers Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle; the Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny can guide you through some of Europe’s most magical stretches of water and help you explore many of the continent’s most arresting and enchanting cities. The five sister vessels, boasting a modest capacity of 182 guests apiece, are all blessed with a selection of wonderful amenities and features.

At the very heart of every Star-Ship in the Emerald Waterways fleet is the Horizon Bar & Lounge. A contemporary, chic social space; the lounge is equipped with a comprehensively-stocked bar, skilled bartenders, help-yourself hot drinks facilities and a generous offering of plush seating and sofas. The Horizon Bar & Lounge is an ever-popular after-dinner retreat for guests looking to make new friends and share the day’s events with friends of old.

Dining aboard the five sister ships throughout a stay on the beautiful rivers of Europe provides an endless array of palate-pleasing sensations. From the Reflections Restaurant which offers a collection of highlight dinners during any given itinerary, to the chance to dine under the barmy European sky thanks to the Sun Deck’s Sky Barbecue; there are gastronomic offerings to suit every taste and every appetite.

The Sun Deck of the ships also boasts the wonderful retractable glass roof which provides seasonal protection for the pool, cinema and Riverview Lounge below. Whether you wish to undertake a few lengths before breakfast in the heated pool or enjoy a Hollywood classic in the cinema, this area of the ship is primed for relaxation when you’ve got a few upcoming hours of river navigation.

The Emerald Star, Sky, Sun, Dawn and Destiny all benefit from 72 generously-proportioned suites and 20 staterooms. Book the Emerald Panorama Balcony Suites, found on the Vista and Horizon Decks, and you’ll enjoy unparalleled views from the spacious private balconies – a truly invigorating start to another day on Europe’s beautiful waterways.

Emerald Star Profile

  • Length: 135m
  • Guests: 182
  • Staterooms & suits: 92
  • Crew: 47

Emerald Star Deck Plan

Full Itinerary

Day 1: UK - Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam. You will be met and transferred from the airport to your Emerald Waterways Star-Ship.

Day 2: Amsterdam Cruising

This morning, either enjoy a glass top canal boat tour through Amsterdam or a guided bike tour. Tonight, the Captain will be delighted to host a gala dinner.

Day 3: Cologne

Cologne is famous for its magnificent World–Heritage listed Gothic Cathedral. Join your guide and explore the city.

Day 4: Rüdesheim

Today, cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge. In the afternoon arrive in Rüdesheim. You will have a choice of visiting the Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or take a guided hike through vineyards.

Day 5: Miltenberg – Wertheim

Enjoy an included tour of Miltenberg, then visit the stunning medieval glass-blowing town of Wertheim.

Day 6: Würzburg

After breakfast, visit the Bishops’ Residenz, one of Germany’s largest and most ornate baroque palaces.

Day 7: Bamberg

Feel the magic of the past as you explore the UNESCO World Heritage city of Bamberg with your guide.

Day 8: Nuremberg

Your coach tour of the historic city of Nuremberg passes by the 900-year-old ramparts, the Nazi party rally grounds, among other sights.

Day 9: Kelheim - Regensburg

On a guided walking tour of Regensburg, see one of the oldest bridges crossing the Danube, and the city’s architectural highlights.

Day 10: Passau - Linz

On this morning’s walking tour of beautiful Passau, stroll through the old town’s narrow alleys and see the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress from the town below, then visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 11: Melk - Dürnstein

Melk is home to an imposing 900–year old Benedictine Abbey which features Austria’s finest Italian baroque architecture. Later, the ship sails through the spectacular Wachau Valley and on to Dürnstein.

Day 12: Vienna

Today, explore Austria’s capital with a drive along the magnificent Ringstrasse, and see Vienna’s world-famous attractions such as the Opera House, Burgtheater, Town Hall, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Imperial Palace.

Day 13: Bratislava

Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City with its Town Hall, Mirbach Palace and the Gothic Cathedral of St Martin.

Day 14: Budapest

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.

Day 15: Budapest - UK

After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to your fellow passengers and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport. Your flight home is included in the price of your holiday. Please call us to check if we can offer your preferred airport.

Additional Information

  • Departure Date: June - October 2021
  • Duration: 14 nights
  • Highlights: From Amsterdam to Budapest, discover the highlights of Europe over the course of this enchanting 15-day itinerary, which whisks you from the Netherlands to Hungary via the continent’s most breath-taking destinations.

Cabin and Fares

Cabin TypeGuide PriceAdditional InfoCabinEnquire
StateroomFrom £3,220ppView Cabin

Stateroom

163 square feet

All cabins include a flat-screen TV, a table with two chairs, a bedside light and picture windows.

Enquire Now
View Cabin

Stateroom

163 square feet

All cabins include a flat-screen TV, a table with two chairs, a bedside light and picture windows.

Enquire Now