Amsterdam to Budapest: Riverside Luxury Cruises All-Inclusive River Cruise with Butler Service
On this Luxury Escapes’ exclusive 15-day cruise, prepare to unlock the awe-inspiring beauty of Europe’s three largest rivers in opulence beyond your wildest dreams. Sailing on the elegant Riverside Debussy from Amsterdam, get ready to experience the Netherlands, Germany, Austria and Hungary in truly all-inclusive luxury.
Be spoilt for choice with carefully curated excursions, tours and tastings – from the music of Vienna and Linz’s storied squares to the fairytale charm of Nuremberg and hot spring baths of Budapest, you’ll experience it all in unparalleled comfort with Riverside Luxury Cruises’ signature brand of personalised hospitality.
On board, be immersed in grandeur with a private butler, premium spirits and a selection of fine wines, a personal minibar stocked with your favourite drinks, plus the services of a dedicated crew. With a maximum capacity of just 110 passengers, a two-to-one guest-to-crew ratio and the largest staterooms on Europe’s waterways, this exquisite ship is the essence of sophistication.
Your journey takes you to: Amsterdam, Netherlands – Utrecht – Dusseldorf, Germany – Rudesheim – Miltenberg – Freudenberg – Karlstadt– Wurzburg – Bamberg – Nurnberg – Regensburg – Passau – Linz, Austria – Melk – Vienna – Budapest, Hungary.
Riverside Luxury Cruises Riverside Debussy – Unparalleled luxury on the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers
Discover Europe’s finest in all-inclusive decadence like never before. Whether savouring Hungarian goulash and sweet apricot dumplings, cocooned in Waterside Restaurant’s royal blue velvet armchairs, or noshing on grilled octopus and prawn paired with a Wachau Valley white at Vista Upper Deck’s open-air bar, rest assured the only finger you’ll ever raise is for the next round.
The Itinerary – Immerse yourself in Europe’s most beautiful cities
Do like the Dutch and see Amsterdam by bike, or take in the impressive paintings of the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum. Uncover legendary composers, fairytale architecture and culinary inventions well beyond schnitzel on a guided walk through Vienna, or visit its Spanish Riding School – home to the stately Lipizzaner horses. Budapest offers the chance to take a dip in its legendary thermal bathhouses, though touring the city’s beloved ruin bars may be more your speed.
With your choice of curated excursions offered in every port – and personal butler service to prepare you for each day ahead – Riverside Luxury Cruises will show you a truly magical time on the Danube, Main and Rhine.
Dining
- Bistro
- Vista Upper Deck
- Waterside Restaurant
- Vintage Room
- Palm Court
- Pantry & 24-hour in-room dining
- Coffee and tea station
Entertainment
- Fitness centre
- Bicycles
- Jogging track
- Counter-current pool
- Spa
Other services
- Butler service
- Laundry service
- Elevator
- Wi-Fi
Surcharges may apply to select facilities and services
Your cruise begins in Amsterdam, Netherlands and ends in Budapest, Hungary, with return airport transfers.
Your cruise departs Amsterdam, Netherlands at 8.30am on Day 2 and disembarks in Budapest, Hungary at 10am on Day 15. All guests must board by 5pm on Day 1 in time for a mandatory safety briefing.
Return flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. Please do NOT book your flights until your cruise is confirmed.
A transfer from Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) to the ship is included on the first day only. A transfer from the ship to Budapest International Airport (BUD) is included on the last day only. Please ensure your flights arrive in time for embarkation.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com. .
Day 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands
Adventure awaits! Upon arrival at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), you will be greeted by a Riverside Luxury Cruises representative who will assist your transfer to the Debussy, where you’ll be invited to embark and settle into your stylish cabin.
Spend the remainder of your day exploring the luxurious ship, from the sophisticated onboard restaurants to the state-of-the-art gymnasium, day spa and rooftop decks, or venture ashore to experience the lively city. Wander through picture-perfect cobblestone streets, lined with quintessential examples of Gothic architecture. Stroll over the countless bridges that straddle the canals and explore the city’s rich history with a trip to the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh Museum and Anne Frank House.
As evening approaches, return to the Debussy to enjoy a memorable meal before settling in for a restful first night.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 2: Amsterdam, Netherlands – Utrecht, Netherlands
This morning set out downstream to Utrecht, located in the heart of the Netherlands. A vibrant city known for its rich history and cultural treasures, decorated with its stunning canals, medieval architecture, and a bustling city centre, Utrecht offers a charming and picturesque atmosphere. Explore the iconic Dom Tower, visit world-class museums, indulge in hearty Dutch cuisine, and soak in the lively scene of the city’s cafes and bars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 3: Dusseldorf, Germany
Another morning, another city to explore and today, it’s Dusseldorf’s turn. Experience the vibrant charm of this modern German city celebrated for its thriving art scene, lively nightlife, and architectural marvels.
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Old Town, where medieval treasures like Saint Lambertus Church and the Schlossturm await. Indulge in a world of culture with visits to renowned museums – the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen showcases exquisite modern and contemporary art. And for the discerning shopper, Dusseldorf unveils a paradise of high-end boutiques and designer stores, promising an unforgettable luxury retail experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 4: Rudesheim, Germany
This afternoon experience the most spectacular scenery on the Rhine as you traverse the famous Middle Rhine Valley en route to Rudesheim. Best known for its thriving gastronomic scene and the impressive Niederwald Monument.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 5: Miltenberg, Germany – Freudenberg, Germany
Today’s explorations lead you to the hidden gem of Miltenberg, a picturesque town nestled along the banks of the Main River. With its well-preserved medieval old town, charming half-timbered houses, and winding cobblestone streets, Miltenberg exudes a timeless allure. Immerse yourself in its rich history, explore the impressive Miltenberg Castle, and savour the delightful atmosphere of this idyllic Bavarian town.
Back on board, relax as the boat passes through the scenic Siegen-Wittgenstein district, with lovely storybook views of vineyards, castles, hilltop ruins and monasteries. Later, disembark in Freudenberg, where you can visit the historic medieval old town, adorned with timbered houses.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 6: Karlstadt, Germany – Wurzburg, Germany
This morning, cruise to the historic city of Karlstadt, nestled on the banks of the Main River in the state of Bavaria. The city is straight from a fairytale, with German timbered houses and historic landmarks, including the spectacular Saint Mary’s Chruch, known for its striking stained glass windows.
This afternoon, dock in the charming Franconian town of Wurzburg. Visit the Marienberg Fortress, the Saint Kilian Cathedral and the extraordinary Wurzburg Residence, one of the most opulent baroque palaces in Europe. Be sure to see its Hall of Mirrors and the imposing Imperial Hall, which boasts a large oval dome and 20 half-columns, before returning to your vessel for some time at leisure as you continue down the river.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 7: Bamberg, Germany
Sail into Bamberg in the late morning. This well-preserved town offers a fascinating glimpse into medieval times. A centre of economic and political life in Central Europe during the Middle Ages, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is now a thriving city with a lively student population and world-famous symphony orchestra. While in port, be sure to try the town’s signature Rauchbier, or smoked beer, brewed from malted barley smoked over an open flame.
This evening you’ll depart in time for dinner and cruise past quiet Franconian hamlets and picturesque countryside vistas as the sun sets over the hills.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Days 8 & 9: Nurnberg, Germany
Today, head to the top deck or grab a seat with a good view as the vessel navigates its way through a marvel of modern engineering – the Main-Danube Canal. Look on as a formidable set of locks, 16 in all, lifts your ship to the crest of the European ‘continental divide’. You’ll rise past seven of these before arriving in the archetypal medieval German city of Nurnberg.
There are many memorable ways of exploring the city once you arrive in port. Tour on foot to discover important WWII sites, including the unfinished four-square-mile Zeppelin Field and Nazi Party Rally Grounds – the actual site of Nazi Party rallies. Alternatively, join a guided tour of Nurnberg’s medieval architecture and visit sites such as the Old Town, Nurnberg Castle and the Church of Saint Sebald.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 10: Regensburg, Germany
Your floating boutique hotel takes you to Regensburg this morning, a city which was once a vital hub of the Holy Roman Empire and witnessed significant events during the Protestant-led Reformation. Its impressive Gothic-style Saint Peter’s Cathedral and the ancient Stone Bridge are testament to its architectural splendour.
As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Regensburg offers visitors the chance to explore its Bavarian Museum, which showcases the region’s cultural heritage, and indulge in a culinary journey at the historic Wurstkuchl, known for its traditional sausages and refreshing beer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 11: Passau, Germany – Linz, Austria
Your day begins in Passau, Germany, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers converge. With its charming old town, Baroque architecture, and riverside promenades, Passau offers a delightful blend of history and natural beauty. Enjoy three hours of leisure to stroll the cobbled streets before setting sail to Austria, where you will spend an afternoon in Linz.
As you step into the heart of this magical destination, you’ll be transported back in time to the golden age of the Habsburg dynasty. Stroll through the baroque-styled Main Square and be captivated by the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Wander through the winding streets of Old Town and discover hidden treasures around every corner, from cosy cafes to stylish boutiques.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 12: Melk, Austria – Vienna, Austria
This morning, glide into Melk, where you can visit the historic Melk Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of baroque architecture in Europe. This UNESCO-recognised monastery, home to Benedictine monks who dedicate their lives to culture and education, sits atop a rocky formation overlooking the Danube.
Back onboard, relax as the boat passes through the scenic Wachau Valley, with lovely storybook views of vineyards, castles, hilltop ruins and monasteries.
This evening sail into the storied city of Vienna.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 13: Vienna, Austria
Following a sumptuous breakfast, venture ashore to tour romantic Vienna’s legendary elegance. Stroll through the cobblestone streets and experience the city’s enchanting beauty as you follow in the footsteps of musical legends like Mozart and Strauss.
With over one hundred museums to choose from, you’ll be captivated by the endless possibilities for cultural exploration. Marvel at the grandeur of the magnificent palaces, including the iconic Schonbrunn Palace, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the Habsburg Empire. For a unique experience, visit the Spanish Riding School – home to the stately Lipizzaner horses – and watch these graceful creatures train and perform.
Choose to join an included shore excursion and use the remainder of your time to explore at leisure before returning to the ship and settling in for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 14: Budapest, Hungary
Sail into Budapest where you will venture ashore to be entranced by the inimitable beauty of this vibrant city – stroll along the Danube promenade and take in the iconic landmarks, including the Szechenyi Chain Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament Building and Buda Castle. Wander your way up steep streets lined with charming houses to the fairytale spires of Fisherman’s Bastion, where breathtaking views of the city await.
Following your included shore tour, indulge in the city’s delicious cuisine with a hearty goulash or delicate pastry. As evening falls, stroll the streets in search of the unique ruin bars that make up Budapest’s unparalleled nightlife scene before reboarding the mighty Riverside Debussy.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Debussy
Day 15: Budapest, Hungary
It’s time to say farewell to this city and your hotel on water. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Budapest International Airport (BUD) for your onward journey.
Meals: Breakfast
IMPORTANT: Purchasing this deal does not complete your booking. A member of the Cruise Team will process your booking and email the cruise line confirmation to your chosen email address. You will then be required to complete your online check-in and print your e-ticket and baggage tags; you will also be able to add drink packages, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments etc.
This Cruise package is valid for the following departure dates:
- 17 September 2025
IMPORTANT: Please allow for travelling time. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive in Amsterdam, Netherlands on time for your cruise.
Booking Process
- Select which package option you would like, taking care to choose the correct cabin option
- Click on the green ‘Check Availability’ tab
- Using the plus or minus adjust the number of people you would like to book then click the ‘View Available Dates & Prices’ tab
- Click the blue ‘Select’ button then the green ‘Review & Payment’ tab at the bottom right of the screen
- Fill out your preferred payment method and click the green ‘Pay Securely Now’ tab
- Once your order is complete, you will receive your Luxury Escapes automated booking summary email (this is not your cruise confirmation). The Cruise Concierge team will process your booking and email the cruise line confirmation to your chosen email address.
- Should you require assistance with your cruise, please contact our Cruise Concierge team at cruises@luxuryescapes.com who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey
IMPORTANT: The Twin-Room Package is valid for ONE PERSON (based on twin room). You must purchase TWO PACKAGES.
Solo Traveller Surcharge: Solo travellers must pay a surcharge and packages are subject to availability. Please contact Luxury Escapes to enquire.
Please note that packages cannot be split.
AMENDMENTS & CHANGES
Name Change or Corrections
- Name corrections may incur a fee.
- Name changes are not permitted.
48-Hour Change of Mind ‘No Questions Asked’ Refund Guarantee:
- All cruise bookings have a 48-hour ‘Change of Mind Guarantee’ where any monies paid (less unrecoverable costs) within 48 hours of the initial purchase date will be refunded – no questions asked.
- Bookings outside the 48-hour ‘Change of Mind’ window will be non-refundable and non-changeable. Cancellations outside of the 48-hour ‘Change of Mind’ period will not be provided, except as required by Australian Consumer Law, your local law or as otherwise provided for in the Fine Print.
Cabin Sizes and Bedding Configuration
This cruise includes the following cabin types:
- Melody Suite: 18sqm, with king bed (convertible into twin beds) and panoramic balcony window
- Symphony Suite: 18sqm, with king bed (convertible into twin beds), with panoramic balcony window
- Seahorse Suite: 22sqm, with king bed (convertible into twin beds), walk-in closet and panoramic balcony window
IMPORTANT
- Some cabins may have obstructed views and/or porthole window.
- Maximum room capacity is one adult for solo travellers, two adults for twin-share cabins/suites/staterooms.
- Wheelchair accessible cabins are not available. They are on application only prior to purchase. Surcharges may apply.
- Please contact the Luxury Escapes sales team on sales@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- There is no elevator to the Vista Deck. This upper deck is only accessible by stairs.
Inclusions
- Passage on a 14-night all-inclusive cruise aboard the Riverside Debussy
- All-inclusive dine-around access to four white-glove service restaurants, with menus inspired by regional produce
- 43 meals included – 14 breakfasts, 15 lunches and 14 dinners
- Daily afternoon tea, plus unlimited cakes, waffles and ice cream
- All-inclusive premium drinks package including premium wines, spirits and Taittinger champagne
- 24-hour butler service with complimentary in-suite dining and minibar
- Your choice of handpicked off-shore excursions in each port
- All port taxes, service charges and onboard entertainment
- Return airport transfers to and from the cruise ship
- Gratuities for onboard personnel
Exclusions
- Return flights
- Visas
- Single supplement
- Travel insurance (recommended)
- City taxes or resort fees may apply and are payable directly to the hotel on arrival
Onboard Dining
- Dining on board is open seating.
- Included dining is available at the following restaurants: Waterside Restaurant, Bistro, Palm Court and Vista Upper Deck BBQ Grill
- Dining at Vintage Room incurs a surcharge
- Dining at Vista Upper Deck BBQ Grill is weather permitting.
Itinerary
- In the event of strikes, lockouts, riots, weather conditions or mechanical difficulties, or for any other reason, any scheduled sailing or port of call may be subject to change.
- Some itineraries may include tender ports.
Age Restrictions
- Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied, in the same or connecting cabin, by a parent or other responsible adult over the age of 21 for the duration of the voyage.
- Infants under three months cannot be accommodated onboard.
- Please note there are no child-minding facilities onboard.
- Guests who will have entered their 24th week of pregnancy or later at any time during the cruise cannot be accommodated due to safety concerns. Pregnant guests under 24 weeks must provide a doctor’s letter upon request confirming fitness to travel and estimated due date.
Travel Insurance
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Luxury Escapes recommends purchasing travel insurance as soon as possible after purchasing this package.
Passports & Visas
- A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they’re holding a current visa for the countries they’re visiting. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
- Important: Please start arranging your visa at least 6-8 weeks prior to departure to account for any delays due to consulate operating hours and processing time.
- A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).
Health & Vaccinations
- Travellers are advised to check recommended vaccinations with their local health professional at least 45 days prior to departure, as some vaccinations require 30 days or more to be effective.
- Proof of vaccination is not usually required unless you are coming from an infected area.
- Proof of Yellow Fever vaccinations is required for entry into some countries, in particular in Africa. Please check with your health professional that you hold the appropriate vaccination entry requirements for your destination.
- Guests may be required to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 from our ground operator prior to embarkation. Please contact the Luxury Escapes Cruises Concierge team on cruises@luxuryescapes.com for further information.
- Important: The hotel, transportation and/or destination you are travelling to may have health, insurance and vaccination requirements in place. Please ensure you stay up to date with any requirements prior to your departure.
Timings
- Timing provided on the itinerary is based on current schedules provided by Riverside Luxury Cruises and can change at any time without notice.
Currency Onboard and Tipping
- The currency on board is EUR.
- Service charges (gratuities) for onboard personnel are included in your package.
Fitness Requirements
Travellers should have a good level of physical fitness and mobility and must be able to negotiate uneven surfaces and climb stairs.
- Disability access is limited during the cruise, please consider this when making your booking.
- Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake any activities in this package. Further, travellers acknowledge and agree that neither Luxury Escapes nor the third-party provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor is Luxury Escapes liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).
Shore Excursions
- Excursions described in the itinerary are subject to change before the time of your cruise, though similar ones will be offered to you. A representative from Riverside will be in touch prior to your trip to confirm the excursions available and to schedule you for the ones you wish to take.
- Please note shore excursions cannot be confirmed until after booking. Shore excursions are subject to availability.
Surcharges
Any prices quoted exclude specific costs/measures which may be introduced at a later stage as a result of Government changes due to COVID-19 health and safety restrictions. Our trusted third-party suppliers will inform guests of these changes as soon as possible.
Deposits
The deposit amount is 25% and the final payment date is due 110 days prior to embarkation. Please note: other deposit options may be available on your package which differ from the above and which will be outlined in the ‘fine print’ and payment section of the specific package.
PLEASE NOTE: We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.
Cruise itineraries are not guaranteed and are subject to change. While the cruise line will make all reasonable efforts to provide a cruise in accordance with the published schedules and itineraries, factors such as weather, mechanical difficulties or other unforeseen circumstances may affect scheduled itineraries.
Package inclusions are correct at the time of purchase. Refer to your booking summary email for details.
Please note this cruise is operated by Riverside Luxury Cruises, one of our trusted partners. You will be contacted post-purchase with further details.