European Gems River Cruise
This 14-night European Gems River Cruise is an incredible way for Irish travellers to experience the very best of the continent in comfort. Starting in the beautiful city of Budapest and winding its way to Amsterdam, this river cruise offers a straightforward, all-inclusive style of travel where you only have to unpack once. As you sail along the Danube and Rhine rivers, you will be treated to a changing view of historic cities, medieval villages, and castle-topped cliffs. This is a premium experience that focuses on relaxation, culture, and high-quality service, making it a firm favourite for those looking to see Europe without the stress of constant road travel.
Your holiday begins with direct flights from Dublin, and from the moment you land, everything is organised for you. In Budapest, you’ll enjoy a twilight cruise to see the illuminated parliament buildings before heading to Vienna. The Austrian capital is a highlight of the European Gems River Cruise, offering a mix of grand imperial architecture and vibrant markets. Whether you choose to enjoy a guided walking tour or wander the historic streets yourself, you will find plenty to admire. The journey continues through the Wachau Valley to the stunning Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery that has stood for nearly a thousand years.
As the ship moves into Germany, you will visit a series of fascinating destinations including Regensburg, Nuremberg, and the fairytale town of Bamberg. One of the unique aspects of this river cruise is the ‘Insider Experiences’ that give you a real taste of local life. In Miltenberg, you can take part in a culinary tour to sample regional specialities from local bakers and distillers. You will also witness the spectacular scenery of the Rhine Gorge and visit the twin-spired cathedral in Cologne. Finally, the cruise concludes in Amsterdam with a glass-top boat tour of the iconic canals. With all meals, flights, transfers, and even gratuities included in the price, this holiday provides excellent value and peace of mind.
What meals and drinks are included on the cruise?
Are flights and luggage included from Ireland?
Do I need to pay extra for tips or taxes?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- 14 nights onboard your Travelmarvel river cruiser based on two sharing
- 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches and 14 dinners
- Complimentary soft drinks, beer and local wine with all meals
- Gratuities and local taxes included
- Excursions as per itinerary
- Return flights from Dublin with 20kg check-in bag per person
- All Airport taxes, charges, and transfers
Cruise operates in reverse directions
Itinerary
1-2Arrival and the European Gems River Cruise in Budapest+
Fly from Dublin to the grand city of Budapest. Upon arrival, you will board your contemporary river ship. Enjoy a Captain’s Welcome Reception and meet your fellow travellers before a relaxing twilight cruise on the Danube. On your second day, a local guide will share the city's vibrant history as you visit impressive sights, followed by a Gala Welcome Dinner while you cruise.
3-4Elegant Vienna and Leisure Time+
Arrive in the heart of Vienna for a walking tour including St Stephen’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace. You can explore the Naschmarkt at your leisure or opt for a Mozart and Strauss concert. The following day is yours to enjoy, with options to visit the famous Kärntnerstrasse shopping strip, Schönbrunn Palace, or even take a trip to Bratislava in Slovakia.
5Dürnstein, Melk Abbey, and the Wachau Valley+
Visit Dürnstein to see the ruins where King Richard the Lionheart was once held. Sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley towards Melk, where you will tour the magnificent Benedictine abbey, which has been in operation since 1089.
6Passau and a Bavarian Evening+
Enjoy a relaxing day sailing to Passau, or choose an optional excursion to Salzburg or Český Krumlov. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Bavarian experience on board with local beer, snacks, and folk music.
7Historic Regensburg+
Continue along the Danube to Regensburg in southern Germany. A guided tour will take you through the city's historic streets, showcasing medieval buildings and significant cultural sites.
8Nuremberg City Tour+
Arrive in Nuremberg for an afternoon city tour. You will visit sights of great historical significance, including the Zeppelin Field and the Palace of Justice, famously linked to the events of World War II.
9The Old Town of Bamberg+
Explore Bamberg, a city largely spared from wartime destruction. A local guide will show you the Old Town Hall and Bamberg Cathedral before you enjoy some free time to wander this historic setting.
10Würzburg and the Romantic Road+
Discover the baroque Würzburg Residence and its beautiful Court Garden. You may also choose to join an optional excursion to Rothenburg, a fairytale medieval town located along Germany's famous Romantic Road.
11Miltenberg Culinary Walking Tour+
Explore the half-timbered buildings of Miltenberg. Enjoy a special culinary walking tour where you can sample regional specialities at a local butcher and baker, finishing with a distillery tasting.
12Rüdesheim and the Rhine Gorge+
In Rüdesheim, ride the mini road train to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Later, relax on deck for spectacular views as the ship sails through the dramatic Rhine Gorge.
13Cologne and Augustusburg Palace+
Cruise into Cologne to see its iconic twin-spired cathedral. You will also visit the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl, a fine example of Rococo architecture with stunning landscaped gardens.
14-15Amsterdam Canal Cruise and Departure+
Board a glass-top boat in Amsterdam to see the famous canal network from the water. Enjoy free time and a Captain’s Farewell Dinner before disembarking the next morning for your return flight to Dublin.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 31 Aug 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,395 | Enquire Now |
| 08 Sep 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,895 | Enquire Now |
| 14 Sep 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,895 | Enquire Now |
| 22 Sep 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,895 | Enquire Now |
| 28 Sep 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,895 | Enquire Now |
| 06 Oct 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,595 | Enquire Now |
| 12 Oct 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,595 | Enquire Now |
| 12 Oct 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,595 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Oct 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,595 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Oct 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,595 | Enquire Now |
| 26 Oct 2026 | Lower Deck | €4,595 | Enquire Now |
| 11 Mar 2027 | Lower Deck | €2,595 | Enquire Now |
| 25 Mar 2027 | Lower Deck | €2,595 | Enquire Now |
| 22 Apr 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,595 | Enquire Now |
| 06 May 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,595 | Enquire Now |
| 20 May 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,595 | Enquire Now |
| 03 Jun 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,595 | Enquire Now |
| 01 Jul 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,295 | Enquire Now |
| 15 Jul 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,295 | Enquire Now |
| 29 Jul 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,295 | Enquire Now |
| 12 Aug 2027 | Lower Deck | €3,295 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TM
