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20 Day Classic European River Cruise with Amsterdam & Budapest Amsterdam to Budapest, Monarch Duchess (Missing Days)

From Amsterdam, Netherlands to Budapest, Hungary
Length: 20 Days - Departs: Tue, May 05, 2026
Operator
Departure
May 05, 2026
Arrival
May 24, 2026

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Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

This river cruise qualifies for unpublished pricing. Please call us or Click Here To Get Our Low Price

All the River Operators Offers & More:

LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON GATE1 CRUISES
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Exclusive, $800 Off European River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3506
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Exclusive, $800 Off European River Cruises

Exclusive, $800 Off European River Cruises

Promotion Details
Book with us and receive $800 off per couple ($400 per person) on European River Cruises. (Not all dates and/or tours apply, contact your Travel Consultant for full details.)
Must Book By Mon, Mar 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Offer applies to new bookings made through March 31, 2025 and is valid on 2025/2026 departures. $400 per person savings is valid on European River Cruises. Promotion is not combinable with any other offer. Additional restrictions may apply.

Save 5% - Cash Payment Discount

Mention Promo Code: PT2225
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Save 5% - Cash Payment Discount

Save 5% - Cash Payment Discount

Promotion Details
Gate 1 offers the flexibility of paying for your vacation by check. Save 5% off of your remaining balance when the final payment is made by check.
Must Book By Tue, Dec 31, 2024
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Gate 1 offers the flexibility of paying for your vacation by credit card or check. Choose check for your final payment to save 5% off of your remaining balance. Full details will be sent with your invoice.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for the Netherlands
    Tue, May 05, 2026
    Depart for the Netherlands
  2. Day 2
    DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Amsterdam
    Wed, May 06, 2026
    Welcome to Amsterdam, Holland's sophisticated and modern capital; transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your local host at the hotel at approximately 6 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 4 PM
    Overnight: Amsterdam
  3. Day 3
    DAY 3, Thursday - Amsterdam City Tour
    Thu, May 07, 2026
    Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. View Amsterdam's port, one of the main harbors of Dutch East India Company during the Golden Age. Continue to the former Jewish quarter with its 17th century Portuguese Synagogue, and National Holocaust Names Memorial. Pass by the 19th century neighborhood with its classic architecture, museums, and lively squares. Then, board a glass-top boat, and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th century warehouses, and charming churches with striking bell towers. The rest of the day is at leisure
    Overnight: Amsterdam
    Meals: Breakfast
  4. Day 4
    DAY 4, Friday - Rijksmuseum Tour & Cruise Embarkation
    Fri, May 08, 2026
    This morning, visit the world-famous Rijksmuseum. On your guided tour you will explore the vast collection of works from some of the world's greatest artists including the Dutch masters Vermeer and Rembrandt. This afternoon, transfer to the port for embarkation. After arrival formalities, rest and relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    DAY 5, Saturday - Leisure Morning, Afternoon Cruising
    Sat, May 09, 2026
    Spend the morning at leisure on board or pick up some last minute Dutch souvenirs. This afternoon, the ship sails south for Germany
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    DAY 6, Sunday - Cologne City Tour
    Sun, May 10, 2026
    Today join a walking tour of Cologne, highlighted by the soaring twin-steeple Gothic cathedral that is the geographical and spiritual heart of the city. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops, and taverns. After dinner on board, time to explore Cologne's vibrant nightlife before setting sail
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    DAY 7, Monday - Morning in Koblenz
    Mon, May 11, 2026
    The ship docks this morning in Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Join an orientation walk this morning followed by free time to explore the Romanesque architecture and imposing defensive towers of this 2000-year-old city. Or, join the optional tour to the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that's never been destroyed and has been continuously occupied for over 700 years. During lunch, set sail and spend a relaxing afternoon on board, taking in the spectacular vistas as the ship cruises past castles perched on lofty cliffs, terraced vineyards, and tiny villages. Pass the mighty Lorelei Rock on the eastern bank of the Rhine rising vertically from the waters, named for the siren "Lorelei" who bewitched sailors passing by
    Optional: Marksburg Castle Tour (AM)
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    DAY 8, Tuesday - Miltenberg Walking Tour
    Tue, May 12, 2026
    After a leisurely morning on board, arrive in the picturesque Bavarian village of Miltenberg, a jewel on the banks of the Main River. Discover the Market Square with its Renaissance-era fountain, the Merchant Hall with its stunning Gothic architecture and the unique 14th and 15th century half-timbered houses. Rejoin the ship just before dinner and set sail for Wurzburg
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day 9
    DAY 9, Wednesday - Wurzburg City Tour
    Wed, May 13, 2026
    Discover Wurzburg, named the "Pearl of the Romantic Road," with its dramatic Marienberg fortress, 15th century bridge and lush vineyards. Your tour takes you to the ornate Bishops' Residenz Palace, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This afternoon, explore the town on your own, or relax on board
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  10. Day 10
    DAY 10, Thursday - Bamberg City Tour
    Thu, May 14, 2026
    Today, dock in historic Bamberg, former residence of one of Germany's most powerful imperial dynasties and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your walk in the medieval city center with its impressive 11th century Romanesque cathedral and gorgeous Rose Garden. After, view the very unusual City Hall built on a tiny island in the middle of the Regnitz River and Little Venice, an area of colorful fishermen's houses. The afternoon is free to explore Bamberg independently, before setting sail this evening while you dine on board
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  11. Day 11
    DAY 11, Friday - Nuremberg City Tour
    Fri, May 15, 2026
    Today explore Nuremberg, an energetic city with a visible history of almost one thousand years. The guided excursion visits the historic Palace of Justice where the War Crimes Tribunal met in 1946 and continues to the vibrant Market Square. After lunch on board the ship, the afternoon is free to further discover this wonderful city on your own. Stroll through the shops that fill the Old Town or walk along the fortified walls of Nuremberg Castle. In late afternoon set sail for Regensburg
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  12. Day 12
    DAY 12, Saturday - Regensburg City Tour
    Sat, May 16, 2026
    This morning relax on board as the ship cruises along the Danube River. Arrive to Regensburg in the early afternoon, one of Germany's largest and best-preserved medieval cities, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour highlights the city's stunning architecture as you view the Old Town Hall, Dom St. Peter and the Porta Praetoria, gateway to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Marvel at beautiful churches and one of the oldest stone bridges crossing the Danube. Return to the ship, or spend the afternoon at leisure discovering the delights of Regensburg on your own. Tonight, after dinner, set sail for Passau
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  13. Day 13
    DAY 13, Sunday - Morning in Passau
    Sun, May 17, 2026
    Dock this morning in 2500-year-old Passau, known for its pastel patrician houses, cafes, cobblestone lanes, and riverfront promenade. Passau is a Bavarian town with a mix of Roman, Italian Baroque, and Gothic architecture. Explore Passau on a guided walking tour in the morning or join the optional full day tour to picturesque Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and setting for The Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg's most historic sites including the Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. After lunch at a local restaurant, there will be time to discover Salzburg on your own before returning to the ship. If you choose to remain onboard the ship, continue sailing during lunch and relax this afternoon. In early evening, all passengers will rejoin the ship and continue sailing for Melk
    Optional: Tour of Salzburg
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  14. Day 14
    DAY 14, Monday - Melk Abbey
    Mon, May 18, 2026
    Disembark in Melk this morning for a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. View the Abbot's chambers, the Kaiser's walk, and the lavish library. Then, return to the ship and continue cruising through the scenic Wachau Valley. This afternoon, arrive in the village of Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube. Free time to stroll this quintessential village in the heart of the Wachau wine district. Walk along medieval cobblestone streets revealing 16th century town houses and wine taverns
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  15. Day 15
    DAY 15, Tuesday - Vienna City Tour
    Tue, May 19, 2026
    Your morning tour of romantic Vienna introduces you to this Imperial city with its legendary opulence and elegance. Drive along the famed Ringstrasse, Vienna´s main boulevard, lined with magnificent palaces, parks and monuments, as well as the Opera House and the Austrian Parliament. Walk through the lavish Hofburg Palace on the way to St. Stephen's Cathedral. Spend the afternoon at leisure, or join the optional tour to the magnificent Schonbrunn Palace, once summer residence of the Habsburgs. Visit the gorgeous apartments and stroll through the world-famous manicured gardens. Tonight, perhaps take the opportunity to attend an evening of Viennese culture in the "City of Music" at an optional recital performance of the classical masterpieces of Mozart and Strauss
    Optional: Schonbrunn Palace Tour (PM)
    Optional: Classical Viennese Recital (PM)
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  16. Day 16
    DAY 16, Wednesday - Bratislava City Tour
    Wed, May 20, 2026
    This morning, enjoy the tranquil scenery as you sail along the scenic Danube. Arrive in Bratislava, capital of Slovakia, a mix of modern and Baroque architecture. This capital city is among the youngest in Europe, yet retains a rich history dating back more than 2000 years. Walk along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town center, view St. Martin's Cathedral, coronation site of the kings of Hungary, the 13th century Old Town Hall, and the Franciscan Church. Time to explore this colorful city on your own before returning to the ship for dinner as you sail for stunning Budapest
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  17. Day 17
    DAY 18, Friday - Disembarkation, Budapest Castle District Tour
    Thu, May 21, 2026
    This morning, meet your local host, and begin the day with a tour of the Budapest Castle District. Head to Philosophers' Garden, featuring bronze statues of philosophers and religious figures. Walk around the garden, offering beautiful views of the city. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the Castle Hill quarter and learn about its fascinating history. View Royal Palace and from Fisherman's Bastion, admire panoramic views of the city. Free time to explore the area on your own before visiting the 13th century Matthias Church, the coronation site of Hungarian kings. Afterward, check into your hotel. Tonight perhaps, join the optional dinner and show in Budapest. Travel to the outskirts of Budapest for a traditional Hungarian dinner in a scenic forested location. While dining, you'll be entertained by colorfully dressed dancers performing a variety of spirited folk dances accompanied by a group playing live music
    Optional: Dinner & Show in Budapest (PM)
    Overnight: Budapest
    Meals: Breakfast
  18. Day 18
    DAY 19, Saturday - Full Day in Budapest
    Fri, May 22, 2026
    Today, discover the delights of Budapest independently. Immerse yourself in the heritage of the "City of Baths" and visit a traditional Turkish bathhouse with its thermal pools and spas or, stroll along the Danube Promenade, a walkway along the Danube that goes from the Elisabeth Bridge to Chain Bridge, offering stunning views of the capital. Another option is to head to Margaret Island, a quiet getaway within the city, that serves as a recreational park, located in the middle of the Danube River
    Overnight: Budapest
    Meals: Breakfast
  19. Day 19
    DAY 20, Sunday - Depart Hungary
    Sat, May 23, 2026
    Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
    Meals: Breakfast

Countries Visited

Austria, Netherlands, Hungary, Slovakia, Germany

Rivers Visited

Danube

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

River Cruise Package Includes

  • Flights New York-Amsterdam, Budapest-New York or vice versa
    Other departure cities available.
  • 18 nights First Class accommodations
  • 2 nights Amsterdam
  • 14 nights outside cabin aboard the Deluxe , First Class , First Class or the Superior First Class
  • 2 nights Budapest
  • River port charges of $380 per person
  • Cruise & hotel porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • 45 meals: 18 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 14 dinners
  • Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise
  • Local host in Amsterdam & Budapest
  • Services of local guides
  • Entrance fees per itinerary
  • Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
  •  

    Special Features

  • In Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals
  • Sail on the legendary Rhine to Cologne, capital of the Rhineland
  • View the mighty Lorelei Rock named for the siren "Lorelei" rising vertically from the waters
  • Walk in Bamberg's medieval center with its 11th century Romanesque cathedral
  • In Nuremberg, visit the historic Palace of Justice where the War Crimes Tribunal met in 1946
  • Admire the beautiful churches and ancient stone bridges in Regensburg
  • In Melk, join a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey
  • Stop in Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube
  • Tour romantic Vienna with its legendary opulence and elegance
  • Take a guided walking tour of charming Bratislava, capital of Slovakia
  • See magnificent panoramic views of Budapest from atop Fisherman's Bastion
  •  

    River Cruise Features & Amenities

  • Wine and beer with dinners
  • Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access in public areas
  • Self-serve coffee and tea station
  • Lounge serving premium spirits
  • Fitness center and daily morning exercises
  • Non-smoking ship interior
  • Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English by licensed guides
  • Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

    European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

    †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

    Not Included:
    Optional shore excursions, optional tours, and gratuities.


    Additional Information:
    Land/Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

    Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

    While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at:

    Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

    European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

    Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

    Ship Information

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    Cabins

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    Life on Board

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    Questions & Answers
      Ask A Question

    Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

    Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

    Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

    The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

    Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.2
    Accommodations
    4.6
    Itinerary
    4.4
    Professional Staff
    4.4
    Repeat with Operator
    4.2
    Value for Money
    3.6

    Ratings based off 10 reviews - currently showing 2 reviews with comments only

    All staff were wonderful! The guides and tour directors were very knowledgeable and engaging with all of us. I have been on 6 GATE1 trips to date and have enjoyed them all. 

    The only negative experience was the Hotel breakfast in Prague. Most of the hot entrees were cold. The tour guides and staff were excellent. They were very knowledgeable it made our travel experiences even better.

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