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Splendours of Europe on Emerald Dawn

From Budapest, Hungary to Amsterdam, Netherlands
Length: 15 Days - Departs: Sun, Apr 06, 2025
Operator
Departure
Apr 06, 2025
Arrival
Apr 20, 2025

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2-For-1 Fares + Free Air + More on Emerald River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3444
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2-For-1 Fares + Free Air + More on Emerald River Cruises

2-For-1 Fares + Free Air + More on Emerald River Cruises

Promotion Details
Receive 2-for-1 fares on select Emerald River Cruises. As an extra perk, Emerald will include a free Flexible Booking Plan for 2025 sailings, giving you additional peace of mind. This is combinable with pay in full Airfare Offer and Emerald Exclusive savings of up to $1,000 per suite. Plus as always receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. Not all sailings apply, contact your travel consultant for applicable departures.
Must Book By Sun, Dec 08, 2024
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new bookings only made between October 1 - December 8 2024 on 2024 & 2025 Emerald Cruises Europe River cruise and 2024, 2025 South East Asia departures.

2 for 1 Fares : 2 for 1 Fares are displayed as a per person rate in a double occupancy cabin. Fares are based on full fare pricing and may not have resulted in a sale. Offer applies to cruise pricing only; does not apply on land extensions, air or any other add-ons.

Emerald Exclusive Savings: Bonus savings of up to $1,000 per suite ($500pp) are available on select departures. Savings vary by departure. Combinable with 2 for 1 Fares and pay in full offers, and are capacity controlled.

Pay in full: Free air offers available when you pay in full based on suite category. Free premium economy air is available on S, RA and SA suite categories with a Max Value of $2,500pp. For Southeast Asia, Free Premium Economy is available for the S and SA categories with a max value of $4,000pp. Free economy air is available on other cabin categories with a max value of $1,500pp. Air offers available when you pay in full 10 months prior to departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers, or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. All flights will be booked on Emerald Cruises choice of airline and routing and are subject to availability. Savings options are available in lieu of airfare with same payment terms. For S, RA and SA suites recieve $1,500pp savings when you pay in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure; whichever is soonest. Other cabin categories receive $1,000pp savings ($2,000 per suite).

Single Supplement: Free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment required. Single supplement is appled to the 2 for 1 Fares; single guest pays one guest fare. Free single supplement is not combinable with any other offers. Other dates may have a 45% single supplement; can be converted to a 25% supplement when paid in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure, whichever is soonest. Single supplement offers not applicable on S, RA or SA categories. Not combinable with any other offers. Offer is capacity controlled.

Complimentary Flexible Booking Plan: We understand you may need to adjust your plans, so we’re offering the flexibility to change your travel arrangements or re-book for a more suitable time if needed. Our Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date, or cancel your journey, until 90 days prior to departure, less third-party fees. We will provide you with a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, which is valid for 24 months. Offer is valued at $125pp. No substituations; no cash value. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. Port charges are included in the price shown. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please visit emeraldcruises.com or contact your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C. For complete terms and conditions visit emeraldcruises.com

$200 Group Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3278
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$200 Group Savings

$200 Group Savings

Promotion Details
Don't miss out on this incredible group savings of $200 per person on all river cruises. Plus as always, receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a friends getaway, there's never been a better time to explore the world together. Contact your travel consultant for more details.
Must Book By Tue, Dec 31, 2024
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new group agreements made between July 1, 2024 - December 31, 2024. Book a new group and receive group savings of $200 per person on Emerald Cruises river cruise departures. Group savings are available for the life of the agreement based on availability and standard review dates. Combinable with current offers, Scenic Select, Emerald Exclusive, loyalty savings, and future travel credits. Excludes Flash Sale offers. Group policies and benefits are subject to change at any time. Refer to Emerald Cruises Guide to Group Benefits for amenity selections. All offers are inventory-controlled and may be extended, canceled, or withdrawn at any time without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any fares and promotions at any time. Offer applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America, Washington D.C., and Latin America.

$300 Military Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3378
Promotion Image

$300 Military Savings

$300 Military Savings

Promotion Details
We are honored to recognize the selfless service of those who have served our nation. As a token of our appreciation, enjoy this exclusive savings of $300 per suite to all US military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Must Book By Tue, Dec 31, 2024
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

US military personnel, veterans, and their families take an additional $300 off per cabin on Emerald Cruises River with proof of current or past military status. This offer is combinable with 2 for 1 savings, pay in full offers, key account exclusives, Flash sales, Scenic Select, and Emerald Cruises. Combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. Taxes & port charges are included in the price. Offer available to residents of the 50 United States only. Offer ends December, 31, 2024. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Visit scenicusa.com for complete terms and conditions.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    Budapest
    Sun, Apr 06, 2025

    Welcome to Budapest, one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Eastern Europe. Here, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to the comfortable surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. 

    This evening, relax on board as you enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show. 

    EmeraldPLUS
    Traditional Hungarian folklore show

    Please book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.


    Meals: Dinner
  2. Day 2
    Budapest
    Mon, Apr 07, 2025

    Budapest is a place of striking contrasts, with Buda on one side housing a generous scattering of the city’s elegant landmarks, and Pest on the other encapsulating its fascinating past. Separated by the mighty Danube, you can explore them both by crossing the Chain Bridge, one of the most symbolic structures in the capital. 

    Today, you will have the opportunity to discover the city’s history during a guided tour, covering some of the highlights of Budapest and learn more about its stunning landscape and architecture. The history of the Hungarian capital shows a unique blend of cultures, cuisine, and vibrant lifestyle. There is so much to take in while you pass through the bustling city, which is an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world. If you are feeling active, then you may instead choose to hike to Gellert Hill.

    Included Excursion
    Guided coach tour of Budapest

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Hike to Gellert Hill


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  3. Day 3
    Bratislava
    Tue, Apr 08, 2025

    Bordering Austria and Hungary, the Slovakian capital is yours to discover today. Wander down cobblestone streets and witness the sheer majesty of ornate Baroque palaces as you explore with a local guide, passing the Renaissance courtyard of the Old Town Hall and the picturesque gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at leisure, perhaps perusing some of the quaint boutiques that line the streets. 

    This afternoon, you will be welcomed into the home of a local family to learn about their culture over traditional sweet treats and coffee. 

    Included Excursion
    Walking tour of Bratislava

    EmeraldPLUS
    Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided hike to Bratislava Castle

    DiscoverMORE
    Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Carpathian wine route (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  4. Day 4
    Vienna
    Wed, Apr 09, 2025

    A wave of culture paves the way for life in the Austrian capital, where some of history’s most prestigious composers once walked the streets and found their inspiration. Today, by coach and on foot, you will have the opportunity to pass the iconic imperial palaces and noteworthy buildings adorning the Ringstrasse, including the Vienna State Opera.  

    Alternatively, embark on a guided cycling tour past idyllic riverbanks, monuments and lush parks before passing by Prater. 

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Vienna

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour of Vienna

    DiscoverMORE
    Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Viennese evening concert (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    Dürnstein - Melk
    Thu, Apr 10, 2025

    This morning, you will have the opportunity to hike to Dürnstein Castle, perhaps stopping to imagine how it would have looked when Richard the Lionheart was held captive following the Third Crusade.  
    Alternatively, enjoy a guided bike ride from Dürnstein to Melk, passing noteworthy vineyards and beautiful landscapes.  

    After visiting Dürnstein Castle, relax on the Sun Deck as you sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Melk, nestled in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Your local guide will take you on a tour of the spectacular 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, including its ancient monastic library and medieval manuscripts saved from fires by the monks in the 13th century. 

    Included Excursion
    Tour of Melk Abbey

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour along the Danube


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    Passau
    Fri, Apr 11, 2025

    Sat on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is a postcard-worthy destination that has been shaped by the surrounding waterways. Maze-like romantic lanes weave through the city, opening up into large squares and magical promenades adorned with classical boutiques. 

    This afternoon, join your local guide for a tour of Passau and discover a peppering of delightful Baroque buildings, some of which date back to the 17th century. Stop to admire the silhouette of the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress and witness St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home of the largest church organ in Europe.  
    Later, return for an afternoon spent peacefully cruising through the heart of Europe. 

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Passau

    DiscoverMORE
    Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Excursion to Ceský Krumlov (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    Regensburg 
    Sat, Apr 12, 2025

    After breakfast, set out on an exploration of one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Germany, where more than two millennia of history is yours to discover. Your local guide will lead you through the heart of Regensburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, once home to the seat of parliament. Delightful historic patrician houses line the streets, a visible testament to the area’s importance as a trading centre hundreds of years ago.  

    Later, return to your Star-Ship to sail through the picturesque surrounds of the Main-Danube Canal, passing Kelheim as you make your way to Nuremberg.  

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Regensburg

    EmeraldPLUS
    Bavarian band performance on board

    DiscoverMORE
    Sausage-making workshop (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    Nuremberg
    Sun, Apr 13, 2025

    Today, the historic city of Nuremberg is yours to explore during an included sightseeing tour, touching on the architectural wonders that have acted as an inspiration for famous artists from around the world for generations. 

    After your guided tour, enjoy time to explore the city at leisure, passing idyllic houses that were lovingly reconstructed following the destruction of the war years. 

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Nuremberg

    DiscoverMORE
    World War II tour (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day 9
    Bamberg
    Mon, Apr 14, 2025

    This morning, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Bamberg awaits. Thousands of listed buildings can be found in the medieval town centre, an area bursting with character, charm and one of the best-preserved old quarters in Europe. 

    Admire hundreds of ornamental façades as you explore the town with your local guide, passing the New Residence, a building that truly captures the opulence that was enjoyed by the prince bishops. Relax in the Rose Garden before witnessing the opulence of medieval Altenburg Castle overlooking the town.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Bamberg


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  10. Day 10
    Würzburg
    Tue, Apr 15, 2025

    Set alongside the Main River, Würzburg offers a perfect introduction to the Romantic Road, one of Bavaria’s most popular tourism routes that links stunning medieval locations throughout the country. Your own charming journey of discovery will touch on the sloping vineyard-laden hills of one of the biggest wine-producing areas in Germany. 

    Today, you will have the opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence, perhaps stopping to admire the Viennese Baroque architecture and secular features from Italy. Your local guide will teach you about how the architects behind the Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a spectrum of different popular styles. After the tour, enjoy a guided walking tour of Würzburg, including the Gothic Marienkapelle and Town Hall. 

    Included Excursion
    Walking tour of Würzburg and a visit to the Bishops Residence

    DiscoverMORE
    Excursion to Rothenburg (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  11. Day 11
    Wertheim - Miltenberg
    Wed, Apr 16, 2025

    This morning, as part of your EmeraldPLUS offering, you will have the opportunity to attend an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum. Then, travel by coach to the picturesque village of Miltenberg, a place that perfectly encapsulates traditional Bavarian life. 

    Enjoy a guided tour of the village, as your local guide leads you down an intricate network of cobblestone streets, each adorned with colourful houses. Centuries ago, this area benefited from trade that was brought by river traffic, and this past affluence can still be seen today.  

    Alternatively, embark on an active walk to Mildenburg Castle, where a wonderful collection of artworks can be found inside of the castle that was once little more than a set of ruins.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Miltenberg

    EmeraldPLUS
    Exclusive visit to the Glass Art Museum in Wertheim with presentation 

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided Active Walk to Mildenburg Castle


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  12. Day 12
    Rüdesheim – Koblenz
    Thu, Apr 17, 2025

    Relax on your Star-Ship this morning until we reach Rüdesheim, a town with a rich history of viticulture. When you arrive, ride the Winzerexpress to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum to see spectacular rare music boxes that have stood the test of time, showcased in a postcard-worthy building with a half-timbered façade.  

    Alternatively, enjoy an active walk through vineyards to see what makes this wine region so popular. 

    After lunch, sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, perhaps standing on the Sun Deck and watching for the castles and fortresses that pepper the surrounding hilltops. 

    Included Excursion
    Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Active Walk to Niederwalddenkmal


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  13. Day 13
    Cologne
    Fri, Apr 18, 2025

    Cruise along the Rhine from Koblenz to Cologne this morning, where an illustrious 2,000-year-long history awaits. One of the oldest cities in the country, the Romans founded Cologne in 50 AD and you'll find a number of ancient ruins, monuments and medieval structures as reminders.  

    Enjoy a walking tour of the city today, as your local guide takes you through the Old Town, passing ancient bridges that survived the air raids of WWII, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral and its filigree twin towers, an iconic part of the city’s skyline. 

    This evening, your crew will be delighted to welcome you to your farewell dinner. 

    Included Excursion
    Guided walking tour of Cologne’s Old Town


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  14. Day 14
    Amsterdam
    Sat, Apr 19, 2025

    This morning, board a glass-top canal boat for a cruise down the UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system that weaves across Amsterdam, passing elegant merchant’s residences that reflect the prosperity of the Dutch Golden Age, a time when Amsterdam was an important trading centre. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.  

    Alternatively, explore on two wheels, cycling from the comfortable surrounds of your Star-Ship to Waterland, passing a number of quintessentially Dutch villages and traditional windmills along the way. 

    Included Excursion
    Canal cruise

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour to Waterland

    DiscoverMORE
    Private hidden Gems Tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  15. Day 15
    Amsterdam
    Sun, Apr 20, 2025

    After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and depart your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the postcard-worthy Rhine Gorge and idyllic Dutch countryside with you.  

    This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.


    Meals: Breakfast

Countries Visited

Austria, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Slovakia

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Ship Information

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Cabins

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Life on Board

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Questions & Answers

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
4.3
Accommodations
4.5
Itinerary
4.5
Professional Staff
4.5
Repeat with Operator
4
Value for Money
4

Ratings based off 4 reviews - currently showing 1 reviews with comments only

Unfortunately because of the high water level in Rhine we got off the ship from Wazburg and continued the trip by land. Not as comfortable and convenient as when we were on the ship but the staff of Emerald gave the best accommodation they could get.

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AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Emerald. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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