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Cruise & Classical Music on the River Danube

■ 7 nights accommodation

■ One itinerary available

■ Full Board

■ Grades 1 details

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Explore the Danube with a difference aboard Amadeus MS Amara and enjoy sightseeing tours and experiences exclusively for HF guests that celebrate the river’s rich musical heritage. Over eight magical days, we’ll journey through Europe’s cradle of classical music, where Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Bruckner left their mark. From the tones of the world’s largest cathedral organ in Passau and Vienna’s elegant waltzes, to the grandeur of Budapest’s Opera House and an intimate concert in St Florian’s Abbey, this is more than a river cruise — it’s a symphony of culture, history, scenery and music playing in perfect harmony.

Accommodation

The Amadeus Nova is a contemporary river cruise ship offering an elegant and comfortable way to explore Europe’s waterways. Launched in 2024, this modern vessel combines stylish design with thoughtful facilities to create a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Cabins and suites are designed with comfort in mind. Each features a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, luxurious Rituals toiletries, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, in-room safe, individual climate control and ample storage space. Fixed or drop-down panoramic windows fill the accommodation with natural light and offer ever-changing views of the passing scenery.

The ship’s inviting public spaces provide plenty of opportunities to relax and socialise. Enjoy a drink in the panoramic lounge bar, unwind on the sun deck, or make use of the fitness and wellness facilities. Whether watching the landscape drift by from a comfortable lounger or enjoying time with fellow guests, the Amadeus Nova offers a welcoming setting throughout your journey.

Dining is a highlight on board, with carefully prepared meals served in the elegant restaurant, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy regional flavours and excellent service.

  • A choice of 67 cabins and 12 suites across three decks.

  • Cabins feature either fixed panoramic windows or drop-down panoramic windows, depending on cabin category.

  • All accommodation includes private en-suite facilities with walk-in shower, Rituals toiletries, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, in-room safe, telephone and individual climate control.

  • A lift connects the Strauss and Mozart decks (the Haydn and Sun Decks are not accessible by lift).

  • The ship accommodates up to 158 guests and is served by a crew of approximately 46.

  • Built in 2024

Other highlights on board

• Spacious restaurant • Panorama lounge bar • Amadeus Club with 24-hour tea and coffee station • Fitness room • Massage room • Onboard shop • Heated outdoor pool • Sun deck with loungers • Outdoor chess board • Shuffleboard • Putting green • Lift serving selected decks • Modern cabins and suites with fixed or drop-down panoramic windows • Complimentary Rituals toiletries

What You’ll Love

  • Smaller ships for a more intimate experience and relaxed feel on board
  • Daily small-group guided themed sightseeing with expert local leaders, exclusively for HF guests
  • Fully escorted from the UK by an HF Tour Manager
  • Sailing from Germany through Austria and Slovakia to Hungary 
  • Concert performances in St Stephen’s Cathedral, Passau, Dürnstein Abbey, and St Florian Abbey
  • Guided walking tour of Budapest and visit to the State Opera
  • Guided walking tours of Passau, Vienna, and Bratislava
  • Music-themed entertainment on board including a Vienesse Waltz performance and dance lesson, and Bavarian evening

What's Included

  • Return flights from the UK with baggage and transfers
  • Fully escorted from the UK by an HF Holiday Tour Manager
  • 7-night river cruise with accommodation in an en-suite river view cabin
  • Sailing from Passau in Germany to Budapest in Hungary 
  • Full board dining featuring breakfast, multi-course lunch and dinner with menu choices, afternoon tea and late-night snack
  • Wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
  • 24-hour complimentary tea and coffee available in the Amadeus Club
  • Welcome cocktail reception and dinner and gala dinner
  • Guided music themed excursions as described in the itinerary
  • Onboard entertainment as described in the itinerary

Reviews

Itinerary

Itinerary

Fly to Munich and join your transfer to Amadeus Amara, your river cruise ship which is moored in Passau in Germany. Enjoy a welcome cocktail followed by a special welcome dinner. The ship remains moored in Passau overnight.   

Passau is not only known for its location at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz.  It is also home to the world’s largest cathedral organ which can be found in St Stephen’s Cathedral.  With almost 18,000 pipes and over 230 registers, an organ concert in the cathedral is one of the highlights of a visit to Passau and we will experience it during our guided tour of the city.  You are free this afternoon to explore Passau at your leisure. This evening, enjoy a special Bavaria- themed dinner on board with regional delicacies and live music as the ships sails towards Linz. 

We arrive at Linz in Austria this morning and travel to Anton Bruckner’s birthplace in Ansfelden. Here, we will learn about his life and work and how his musical development was shaped by his schoolmaster and organist father. We them move onto St Florian Abbey where Bruckner was a choirboy and later a teacher and organist.  After a guided tour of the Abbey, we’ll enjoy a short concert.  The ship remains in Linz until the evening, so you have the afternoon at leisure for further exploration. 

This morning, we arrive in Emmersdorf where you are free to explore at leisure. Known as the Gateway to the Wachau Valley, this charming riverside town boasts cobbled streets, cosy cafés, and views over the Danube. Back on board, lunch is served as the ship continues towards the wine-growing village of Dürnstein in the UNESCO protected Wachau Valley.  Dürnstein Abbey is a former Augustinian Monastery, famous for its iconic blue and white Baroque tower overlooking the Danube. The Baroque organ is still in use today and we will hear it played during a short concert.  The ship departs late afternoon for Vienna where it arrives late evening at its overnight mooring. 

Vienna has been associated with classical music for centuries and many renowned composers have connections with the city. Franz Schubert was born here, and Johann Strauss II is credited for popularising the Viennese waltz.  Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn and Mahler lived and composed here, inspired by the art and architecture of one of Europe’s great cities. This morning, our guided tour of the city is focused on Viennese composers and music, followed by afternoon free time in the ‘City of Music’. Visit St Stephen’s Cathedral with its iconic colourful tiled roof, sample coffee and cake in the Café Frauenhuber where Mozart and Beethoven performed or simply take in the elegant Baroque and Gothic buildings on a stroll around the UNESCO-listed city centre. The ship is moored in Vienna until late evening when it departs for Bratislava. 

The ship arrives in Bratislava in Slovakia this morning where we’ll enjoy a music-themed guided walking tour. Together with an expert guide, we’ll stroll the city’s stunning streets hearing stories of how Mozart dazzled noble families with his talent here aged just six years old, and a young, Franz Liszt performed at the University Library in one of his earliest public appearances. The afternoon is free for you to explore further. Back aboard the ship, evening entertainment is a Viennese Waltz performance and the chance to learn a few steps of this classic ballroom dance.  

This morning the ship makes its way into Hungary and towards our final port of call.  Relax on board and enjoy the views from the panorama lounge bar, Amadeus Club, or your cabin.   One of the highlights of a Danube cruise is arriving in Budapest from the river. You’ll see several iconic bridges including the famous Chain Bridge, the stunning Hungarian Parliament Building, and Buda Castle – the seat of Hungarian kings since the 13th century.  We arrive early afternoon and then take a guided walk of the city which includes a tour of the iconic Budapest Opera House and a short concert.  

On our final evening, we will enjoy an atmospheric cruise through Budapest. Illuminated at night, Budapest’s most beautiful side is revealed. A gala dinner and folklore show on board will complete the experience

Say farewell to the crew and transfer to the airport for the flight home from Budapest.

View all

Daily Walk Options

Grade 1

Easier Walks

Walk at a relaxed pace, often spending time at places of interest en-route. Walking experience isn’t necessary as distances are quite short and gradients generally easy.

Accommodation

Amadeus Nova

The Amadeus Nova is a contemporary river cruise ship offering an elegant and comfortable way to explore Europe’s waterways. Launched in 2024, this modern vessel combines stylish design with thoughtful facilities to create a relaxed onboard atmosphere. Cabins and suites are designed with comfort in mind. Each features a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, luxurious Rituals toiletries, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, in-room safe, individual climate control and ample storage space. Fixed or drop-down panoramic windows fill the accommodation with natural light and offer ever-changing views of the passing scenery. The ship’s inviting public spaces provide plenty of opportunities to relax and socialise. Enjoy a drink in the panoramic lounge bar, unwind on the sun deck, or make use of the fitness and wellness facilities. Whether watching the landscape drift by from a comfortable lounger or enjoying time with fellow guests, the Amadeus Nova offers a welcoming setting throughout your journey. Dining is a highlight on board, with carefully prepared meals served in the elegant restaurant, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy regional flavours and excellent service. A choice of 67 cabins and 12 suites across three decks. Cabins feature either fixed panoramic windows or drop-down panoramic windows, depending on cabin category. All accommodation includes private en-suite facilities with walk-in shower, Rituals toiletries, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, in-room safe, telephone and individual climate control. A lift connects the Strauss and Mozart decks (the Haydn and Sun Decks are not accessible by lift). The ship accommodates up to 158 guests and is served by a crew of approximately 46. Built in 2024 Other highlights on board • Spacious restaurant • Panorama lounge bar • Amadeus Club with 24-hour tea and coffee station • Fitness room • Massage room • Onboard shop • Heated outdoor pool • Sun deck with loungers • Outdoor chess board • Shuffleboard • Putting green • Lift serving selected decks • Modern cabins and suites with fixed or drop-down panoramic windows • Complimentary Rituals toiletries

The Amadeus Nova is a contemporary river cruise ship offering an elegant and comfortable way to explore Europe’s waterways. Launched in 2024, this modern vessel combines stylish design with thoughtful facilities to create a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Cabins and suites are designed with comfort in mind. Each features a spacious bathroom with a walk-in shower, luxurious Rituals toiletries, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, in-room safe, individual climate control and ample storage space. Fixed or drop-down panoramic windows fill the accommodation with natural light and offer ever-changing views of the passing scenery.

The ship’s inviting public spaces provide plenty of opportunities to relax and socialise. Enjoy a drink in the panoramic lounge bar, unwind on the sun deck, or make use of the fitness and wellness facilities. Whether watching the landscape drift by from a comfortable lounger or enjoying time with fellow guests, the Amadeus Nova offers a welcoming setting throughout your journey.

Dining is a highlight on board, with carefully prepared meals served in the elegant restaurant, providing the perfect opportunity to enjoy regional flavours and excellent service.

  • A choice of 67 cabins and 12 suites across three decks.

  • Cabins feature either fixed panoramic windows or drop-down panoramic windows, depending on cabin category.

  • All accommodation includes private en-suite facilities with walk-in shower, Rituals toiletries, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, in-room safe, telephone and individual climate control.

  • A lift connects the Strauss and Mozart decks (the Haydn and Sun Decks are not accessible by lift).

  • The ship accommodates up to 158 guests and is served by a crew of approximately 46.

  • Built in 2024

Other highlights on board

• Spacious restaurant • Panorama lounge bar • Amadeus Club with 24-hour tea and coffee station • Fitness room • Massage room • Onboard shop • Heated outdoor pool • Sun deck with loungers • Outdoor chess board • Shuffleboard • Putting green • Lift serving selected decks • Modern cabins and suites with fixed or drop-down panoramic windows • Complimentary Rituals toiletries

More Information

Vaccinations & health information

Before booking, you should check with your doctor to see whether any health precautions are needed for your trip. Health advice and requirements can change, so we recommend doing this in good time before travel.

As a general rule, travellers should ensure they are up to date with routine UK vaccinations and boosters, including, for example, MMR and diphtheria, tetanus and polio. Some countries may require you to have specific vaccinations such as Malaria, Rabies and Yellow Fever. Please check with your GP if you are unsure.

Please note that the use or possession of some common prescription or over-the-counter medicines is restricted or banned in certain countries. If you will be carrying medication, you should check with the relevant embassy or consulate before travelling. As an extra precaution, we recommend keeping medication in its original packaging, carrying a copy of your prescription, and, where possible, asking your pharmacist to provide the medication name in the language of the country you are visiting.

For further country-specific health advice, visit www.fitfortravel.nhs.uk or www.traveldoctor.co.uk. If you are travelling from outside the UK, please consult your own doctor and check local entry requirements.

 

Passport & Visa information

This information is for those travelling with a full ‘British Citizen’ passport; for all other nationalities or passport holders, please check with your local consulate for advice.

Passport Requirements

This information applies to travellers holding a full British Citizen passport. Entry requirements vary by destination and can change at short notice. For most EU and worldwide destinations, passports must be valid for the entire duration of your stay. Some countries also require a minimum period of validity remaining on your passport (often up to 6 months beyond your return date), even if you are not staying that long.
We strongly recommend ensuring your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining at the time of travel to avoid any issues.

If you hold a different type of British passport or a passport issued by another country, you must check the requirements with the relevant embassy, consulate, or official government website.

Visa Requirements

Visa rules depend on your nationality, destination, length of stay, and purpose of travel, and they can change frequently. It is your responsibility to check whether you require a visa before travelling.
British passport holders should check the latest entry, passport validity and visa requirements for their destination on the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) website:
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice

 

 

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a condition of booking. Therefore, if you have not already arranged insurance, it is imperative that you do so before you travel.

For more information about healthcare and its costs, please visit: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/

Drinking Water

Drinking Water

Standards for drinking water vary widely around the world. In many destinations, tap water may not be safe to drink, brush your teeth with, or use for making ice. Where advised, you should drink only bottled or treated water and ensure that bottle seals are intact before use. If bottled water is unavailable, water should be boiled or filtered.

Staying well hydrated is particularly important in hot climates and during active holidays. Carry water with you and drink regularly. 

If you are unsure about local water safety, check official country-specific health advice before travel, or ask your accommodation or local guides for guidance once you arrive.

Useful information

Luggage

To facilitate the transportation of your luggage to/from the ship, we ask you to affix a clearly visible luggage label on the outside.

Wi-Fi

Complimentary wireless internet access is available on board the ship.   Please note that the connection during your cruise may be weaker within certain sections of the route and does not meet the standard of a land-based internet connection. In addition, downtimes may occur on board, as international borders are often crossed during the cruise.

Laundry

Washing and pressing services are available onboard at a nominal fee and are handled through your cabin staff.  Self-service laundry facilities, iron and ironing boards and dry-cleaning services are not available.

On board currency and payments

The currency on board is the EURO. You can pay on board with cash, debit card and credit card (Visa, Master Card, Diners Club and American Express). There are no ATMs on board and often only a limited number in the smaller towns along the rivers.

Dress code

Dress code on board ship

There is a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere on board.  Smart casual clothing is acceptable for all meal times;  jackets and ties are not required for meals.  The Captain‘s Dinner is an opportunity to dress up should you wish.

Optional excursions on board

Optional excursions on board

A small-group guided excursion is included every day exclusively for HF Holidays guests. In addition the ship offers a range of optional excursions which can be booked and paid for onboard. Details will be provided by your Cruise Director.

Carbon Footprint

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

Learn more

Reviews

Code: RMD07-LRC12

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Cruise & Classical Music on the River Danube

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