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Gems of Southeast Europe (A Taste of Christmas Markets)

with AmaWaterways
Nov. 16, 2026 - Nov. 23, 2026
7 days8 ports

  • brand-new ship
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  • SERENITY SUITE
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  • The SkyView Luna

Itinerary

Day 1: Giurgiu
Day 2: Ruse
Day 3: Vidin
Day 4: Golubac
Day 5: Belgrade
Day 6: Novi Sad
Day 7: Mohács
Day 8: Budapest
Day 1: Giurgiu

Day programme:

EMBARKATION – GIURGIU, ROMANIA. Embark your ship in Giurgiu. Tonight gather on board and meet your fellow passengers. (B,L,D)

Day 2: Ruse

Day programme:

GIURGIU – ROUSSE, BULGARIA. Experience the best of Bucharest, Romania’s capital, known as the “Little Paris of the East,” with its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe. Then visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead to explore Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterwards visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Vidin

Day programme:

VIDIN. Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. Continue on to Belogradchik, one of Bulgaria’s natural wonders, where you can hike around its most spectacular rock formations. Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Golubac

Day programme:

SCENIC CRUISING THROUGH THE IRON GATES. The Iron Gates are some of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains, forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. The ancient King Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, is proudly carved into the mountainside and always captivates travelers. After your scenic cruise, you will arrive at Golubac Fortress – one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Europe – for a tour. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Belgrade

Day programme:

BELGRADE, SERBIA. Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St. Sava. Alternatively, visit the Royal Palace, the official residence of the Serbian Royal Family, and the House of Flowers, the mausoleum of Marshal Tito, who became the first President of Yugoslavia. Or enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian plum brandy, Šlivovitz, and delicious local delights at the Quburich Distillery, followed by a panoramic tour of Avala Mountain. Later in the day, choose from a hike to Kalemegdan Fortress, known for its winding walking paths and incredible river views, or join a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Novi Sad

Day programme:

VUKOVAR, CROATIA. Enjoy an afternoon in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you will have a chance to visit Eltz Manor House and its collection of historic artifacts, paintings and clothing. Alternatively, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour. Wine connoisseurs will want to enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Mohács

Day programme:

MOHÁCS – PÉCS, HUNGARY. Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohács. You’ll then visit Pécs, founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. Or for wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Budapest

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country’s political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city’s history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Day programme:

BUDAPEST – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark your cruise in Budapest. (B)

Region Banner

Ship features

Suite

Suite

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day. 

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Suite
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Suite
Category AA

Category AA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category AA
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Suite
Category AA
Category AB

Category AB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category AB
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Suite
Category AA
Category AB
Category BA

Category BA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category BA
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Suite
Category AA
Category AB
Category BA
Category BB

Category BB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category BB
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Suite
Category AA
Category AB
Category BA
Category BB
Category C

Category C

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category C
  • French Balcony

Suite
Category AA
Category AB
Category BA
Category BB
Category C
Category D

Category D

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Piano Deck
  • Category D
  • Fixed Windows

Suite
Category AA
Category AB
Category BA
Category BB
Category C
Category D
Category E

Category E

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Piano Deck
  • Category E
  • Fixed Windows
Journeys Restaurant

Journeys Restaurant

Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local ingredients and presented with elegance, turning each meal into a celebration of flavor, artistry, and place.

Regional Flavors and Fresh Ingredients

Taste the essence of every destination through cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients and using regional traditions, bringing the authentic flavors of your travel destination directly to your table.

Perfectly Paired Wines and Beverages

Pair dishes with regional wines, beers, or handcrafted cocktails, thoughtfully chosen by our sommeliers to complement each dish and enhance your dining experience throughout the journey.

Journeys Restaurant
The Chef's Table

The Chef's Table

Enjoy an intimate, multi-course dinner where culinary artistry shines at The Chef’s Table, available on select sailings. Watch as our chefs prepare each course before your eyes, pairing exquisite flavors with impeccable service.

Included Biking Excursions

Included Biking Excursions

Take a more energetic route with guided cycling and hiking tours that blend scenic beauty, cultural insight, and a touch of adventure.

Included Biking Excursions
Included Hiking Excursions

Included Hiking Excursions

See Europe from new heights with AmaWaterways’ guided hikes up castles, into national parks, and on scenic mountains. Each trail invites you to stretch your legs and discover destinations beyond the riverbank.

Hikes and Walks Guided by Experts

Every hike is led by an expert guide who brings the landscape to life through stories, cultural insight, and knowledge about the location.

A Range of Landscapes to Explore

From castle paths in Europe to riverside trails in Asia and nature walks in Africa, step off your ship and into remarkable settings.

Comfort and Care When You Return

After time on the trails, unwind aboard your ship with regionally inspired cuisine, a relaxing massage, or a glass of wine overlooking the scenery you explored on foot.

Included Biking Excursions
Included Hiking Excursions
Special Interest Tours

Special Interest Tours

AmaWaterways cruises invite you to explore your favorite interests during your trip. From wine-themed cruises with a dedicated sommelier on board to European adventures designed around visiting castles, there’s an itinerary for every passion.

Included Biking Excursions
Included Hiking Excursions
Special Interest Tours
Land Packages

Land Packages

Extend Your Journey

Stay and explore your destination a little longer before or after your cruise. AmaWaterways’ curated land extensions pair perfectly with your river itinerary, offering the same luxury, care, and sense of place found on board.

Seamless Travel from Ship to City

Your Cruise Manager continues with you on land, ensuring every detail—from transfers to luggage—runs smoothly so you can simply relax and enjoy the destination.

Hand-Selected Hotels in Prime Locations

Stay steps from world-famous landmarks in luxurious hotels chosen for their comfort, style, and connection to each destination.

Expertly Curated Experiences

Each extension includes activities like guided city tours, museum visits, and wine tastings designed to reveal the culture and character of every destination.

Daily Breakfast Included

Begin each morning with a satisfying breakfast at your hotel—an easy, thoughtful touch that adds comfort and convenience to your time on land.

The Lark Lounge & Bar

The Lark Lounge & Bar

With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.

The Lark Lounge & Bar
Onboard Entertainment

Onboard Entertainment

Onboard Performances and Musical Evenings

Throughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into a stage for local ensembles, jazz duos, and classical quartets

Select sailings have Music Hosts, conductors and musicians who guide you through historical context, lead onboard performances, and deepen your connection with the region’s musical heritage.

Live Regional Performances On Ship

Even on non-themed sailings, enjoy musical offerings like local performances, curated playlists, and connections to the musical stories of the rivers you traverse.

The Lark Lounge & Bar
Onboard Entertainment
Reception

Reception

The Reception can be found on the Violin Deck.

Fitness Room

Fitness Room

Stay energized with fitness classes, a session in the gym, or an afternoon pickleball game on board, or seek an active hike or bike ride on shore.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes

Fitness Classes

Start the day with intention through gentle stretching, yoga, or quiet moments on deck, surrounded by fresh air and flowing scenery.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes
Massage Services

Massage Services

Rejuvenate body and spirit with soothing spa and massage treatments, offering the perfect balance of indulgence and serenity.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes
Massage Services
Beauty & Hair Salon

Beauty & Hair Salon

Whether you’d like to dress up for the captain’s special dinner or a night out on the town, you can complete your look by getting your hair styled in our salon.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes
Massage Services
Beauty & Hair Salon
Sun Deck Pool

Sun Deck Pool

Find calm in beautifully designed areas made for rest and reflection, whether it’s a quiet lounge, the Sun Deck, or simply watching the river drift by.

Age Restrictions

Age Restrictions

Guests must be at least 4 years old to travel with AmaWaterways, unless otherwise approved. Children under 18 must share a stateroom with an adult and remain supervised at all times, as balcony staterooms may be unsafe for unattended minors. On Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises, the minimum age is 12 due to safety considerations. AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or childcare services.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy

Smoking Policy

Smoking is not permitted inside any AmaWaterways ship. It is only allowed in designated areas located at the aft of the Sun Deck. For the comfort and safety of all guests, we kindly ask that you observe this no-smoking policy while on board.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements

Dietary Requirements

AmaWaterways will do its best to accommodate most dietary needs and food allergies when advised in advance. While gluten-free, vegetarian, and other special requests can be arranged, kosher meals cannot be provided due to onboard preparation limitations. Please note that cross-contamination cannot be completely avoided.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code

Dress Code

Dress aboard AmaWaterways ships is comfortable and casually elegant. On all ships, something a little dressier is recommended for the Welcome and Farewell dinners. Guests sailing in warmer destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, and Colombia should pack breathable fabrics, sun protection, and modest attire for temple visits. 

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities

Medical Facilities

AmaWaterways ships do not have onboard medical facilities or medical staff. In the event that assistance is needed, appropriate medical services can be contacted from shore, though response times may vary depending on the ship’s location. In Europe, medical services can easily be called from shore if required. Response times elsewhere can vary. Guests are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive travel insurance that includes coverage for medical treatment and evacuation while overseas.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet

Internet

Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi is available in your room and in all public areas, making it easy to stay connected, share photos, or check in with loved ones during your journey.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions

Limited Mobility and Excursions

AmaBella features an elevator* and wide public areas to make moving around easier. Some staterooms are specially designed for guests with mobility needs, and the crew is always available to offer assistance both on board and during shore excursions, ensuring you feel comfortable and supported throughout your trip.

Elevator reaches Violin and Cello Deck. Does not reach Sun or Piano Deck. 

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions
What's Included

What's Included

Your cruise includes all meals, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, a daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions in every port. Premium beverages, gratuities, and optional tours may be additional, but most of what you need for a seamless journey is already included.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions
What's Included
Laundry

Laundry

Laundry services are available on all AmaWaterways ships for an additional fee, with price lists provided in your stateroom. Please note that dry cleaning is not available on board.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions
What's Included
Laundry
Language

Language

The official language on board all AmaWaterways ships is English, and most crew members, guides, and Cruise Managers are fluent. Announcements and lectures are conducted in English. On Latin Experience cruises, a bilingual atmosphere is offered, with both English and Spanish spoken.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions
What's Included
Laundry
Language
Payment Methods

Payment Methods

Onboard payments vary by region. In Europe, charges are in euros and may be paid in cash or by credit card. 

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions
What's Included
Laundry
Language
Payment Methods
Excursions

Excursions

AmaBella sails primarily on the Danube and the Rhine Rivers, two of Europe’s most celebrated waterways. Its itineraries bring you close to castles, vineyards, and storybook towns.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions
What's Included
Laundry
Language
Payment Methods
Excursions
Solo Travellers

Solo Travellers

We warmly welcome solo travellers who wish to explore the world, meet kindred cruisers and become a part of our extended AmaWaterways family. With a variety of itineraries in fascinating destinations, you have every reason to take advantage of special savings reserved exclusively for solo travellers.

A Warm Welcome

Begin your river cruise with a guided ship tour created for solo travelers, offering a friendly introduction that helps you feel comfortable and confident from the very start.

Social Time, Your Way

Select invitations to cocktail gatherings or the Captain’s Table offer friendly ways to meet others, but you always have the freedom to enjoy time independently.

Small Groups, Big Connections

Our small onshore experience groups make it easier to meet fellow travelers and connect with knowledgeable local guides, creating meaningful opportunities to explore and learn at your own pace.

Dining That Feels Natural

Select dining tables are thoughtfully set for five, offering comfortable spaces that encourage easy conversation without the pressure of joining a larger group on your own.

Care That Feels Personal

Our Cruise Manager and crew offer thoughtful attention to solo travelers, providing warm guidance and support to ensure you feel comfortable and welcome throughout your journey.

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

  • Wheelhouse
  • Sun Deck & The Deck Club
  • Pool
Sun Deck
Violin Deck

Violin Deck

  • The Chef’s Table
  • Massage & Hair Salon
  • Fitness Centre
  • Elevator
  • Reception
  • Boutique
  • The Lark Lounge & Bar
  • Suite
  • Category AA
  • Category BA
  • Category C
Sun Deck
Violin Deck
Cello Deck

Cello Deck

  • Journeys Restaurant 
  • Category AB
  • Category BB
  • Category C
  • Elevator
Sun Deck
Violin Deck
Cello Deck
Piano Deck

Piano Deck

  • Category D
  • Category E

AMAWaterways

With over two decades of experience on the world’s rivers, our family-owned and operated company has remained focused on what we do best: providing our guests with innovative and unforgettable travel experiences. As recipient of Cruise Critic's coveted "Best River Cruise Line" award, AmaWaterways offers you exciting journeys that are unrivaled on the rivers. Each day brings a genuine smile that warms the heart, every river a new culture that inspires, and each course a moment to savor and share.
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