We’ve always loved the quieter side of travel – those moments when you can really connect with a place without the rush of peak-season crowds. So, when AmaWaterways invited us to sail its Best Of The Danube itinerary in February, we didn’t hesitate to say yes. This round trip journey from Budapest gives us a chance to experience the Danube at its most peaceful, with fewer tourists and a fresh perspective on some of our favorite destinations.
Brrrrr – Why February?
AmaWaterways’ decision to extend the river cruise season into February is a smart one – it opens up a unique perspective on Europe. A February departure might give some people pause, but for us, that’s exactly what makes it exciting. As seasoned river cruisers, we’re thrilled by the promise of fewer crowds and a more personal experience. And knowing AmaWaterways’ reputation for thoughtful service and flexibility, we’re certain this February cruise will balance adventure and comfort perfectly.
Sure, it’s the off-season, and yes, it might be chilly, but that’s also part of the charm. Winter gives Europe’s historic cities a whole different feel. Picture Bratislava’s old town dusted in snow or Budapest glowing softly under the night sky. And for travelers like us who love to stay active, there’s something energizing about a brisk hike or bike ride – especially when you know there’s a warm drink waiting for you in a local café or back onboard.
The President’s Top Pick
If anyone knows river cruising, it’s Rudi Schreiner. As Co-Founder and President of AmaWaterways, and the “Godfather of River Cruising”, Rudi has spent decades shaping the industry. So, when he named this itinerary his top-choice for 2025, we took notice. Plus, Rudi was born in Vienna, so his personal connection to the Danube is apparent in the journey, from curated excursions to scenic cruising through regions like the Wachau Valley.
Calling On The Danube’s Best Stops
One complaint I hear from some river cruisers is that there’s not enough time in each city. It’s a valid point – typical itineraries can feel like a blur, visiting more ports of call than there are days of the sailing. AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube flips that script. With just five ports over an eight-day journey, this itinerary trades quantity for depth, giving you room to slow down and get to know each destination you’re visiting.
We’ll spend three days total in Budapest, a rarity on river cruises, which means time to fully explore both Buda and Pest. Bratislava is another highlight, a port sometimes skipped on other itineraries, where we’re already debating between hiking to the castle, biking through the city, or joining a local food tour (why can’t we do all three?).
Then it’s on to Vienna, where two days allow for everything from café culture and classical music to active options like hiking in the Vienna Woods. Melk Abbey makes an appearance with its baroque architecture, stunning frescoes, and an unforgettable library.
No seriously. My grandmother hasn’t sailed this itinerary in over 20 years and every time I tell her I’m taking a Danube cruise she says, “Are you going to that library?”
The toughest decision might come in Linz, though, which serves as a gateway to two equally tempting excursions: Salzburg, where The Sound of Music fans can relive iconic scenes, or Český Krumlov, a Czech town so picturesque it feels like stepping into another world. And then there’s Linz itself, which has an art museum I can’t seem to skip whenever I’m in town. It’s right near where the ships dock and absolutely worth a visit if you can squeeze it in.
This itinerary isn’t about cramming in as much as possible, though I still find myself wanting to do everything! – it’s about really getting to know some of the towns we’ve passed through for so many years. For us, that’s exactly the kind of trip we’re looking forward to.
Danube It All Over Again
With its thoughtful pacing, meaningful stops, and the quiet charm of winter travel, AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube feels like the perfect way to rediscover some of our favorite destinations. This isn’t a whirlwind tour – it’s a chance to linger, to explore, and to really connect with the places and people that make the Danube so special.
For me, that’s the beauty of river cruising: it’s not about checking places off a list. I know I’ll visit these destinations again, so it’s really about taking the time to do it all over – and see them in a new way each time.
This article was originally published at River Cruise Advisor.