Photo credit: www.travelzoo.com
As a first-time cruiser, my friend Roger and I embarked on a remarkable journey as we set sail on the Danube River aboard the AmaMagna for AmaWaterways’ Best of the Danube cruise. With Roger having only one previous ocean cruise experience, this trip promised to be both exciting and enlightening for two friends in their 40s.
This seven-night roundtrip cruise from Budapest featured captivating stops in Bratislava, Vienna, Linz, and more. The itinerary focused on scenic cruising, offering breathtaking views right from our windows, along with multiple daily excursions, including a tour of Melk Abbey and a hike through the Vienna Woods to immerse ourselves in the local culture.
Before diving into our experience aboard AmaWaterways, we kicked off our journey in Budapest, a city that quickly became a favorite.
Pre-cruise Highlights at Aria Budapest
Thanks to the pre-cruise hotel night included in our package, we had the perfect opportunity to dive into exploring Budapest leisurely. We treated this stop as a bonus vacation, maximizing our time in this vibrant city.
Aria Budapest, which was honored as TripAdvisor’s Traveler’s Choice No. 1 Hotel in the World in 2017, is a luxury hotel celebrated for its multiple accolades. Situated next to St. Stephen’s Basilica, the hotel features various wings dedicated to different genres of music, enhancing the overall ambiance for music enthusiasts like myself. I found the classical wing room charming, complete with musically-themed macarons that added a whimsical touch to our stay.
The hotel’s design showcases impressive details, from caricatures of famous musicians to a spectacular Bogányi piano centerpiece in the Music Garden. Each evening, guests enjoyed a wine and cheese reception with live performances, and mornings featured a delightful complimentary breakfast in the same space, setting a perfect tone for our explorations.
However, we had to venture out and explore the city, which was brimming with history and excitement.
Exploring Budapest Before the Cruise
Our explorations began right at St. Stephen’s Basilica, where the stunning architecture outside was as captivating as the artifacts inside, especially the mummified hand of St. Stephen. A climb to the dome terrace offered panoramic views that were well worth the effort.
We also visited the interactive Retro Museum to gain insight into Budapest’s Communist past, explored the historic Buda Castle, the impressive Hungarian Parliament Building, and Matthias Church. Although construction obstructed a closer look at the Freedom Statue on Gellért Hill, we appreciated the vibrant atmosphere of the city, a stark reminder of its complicated history.
Our next stop was the Széchenyi Baths, where the outdoor thermal waters provided a perfect escape from the February chill. The expansive complex, with its various pools and saunas, felt surprisingly uncrowded even on a weekend. This is a must-do for anyone visiting Budapest—an experience your body will thank you for.
We ended our day at the quirky, free Cats Museum Budapest, filled with delightful cat-themed art and fun souvenirs, embodying the city’s eclectic charm. Our night was capped off with a UK band performance at A38, a unique floating venue on the Danube.
Thanks to Aria Budapest’s sauna and pool facilities, we were well-rested and rejuvenated before embarking on the river cruise. A toast at the rooftop Skybar offered stunning evening views of the city paired with expertly crafted cocktails, rounded off by a cultural lesson about the local clinking etiquette.
The AmaWaterways Experience on the Danube
This Danube itinerary conveniently begins and ends in Budapest, allowing us to fully experience the city and plan for a future return visit.
From our arrival at the AmaMagna’s dock, it was evident we were in for something extraordinary. With a width double that of typical European river ships, it felt like a small floating resort.
The lobby greeted us with boutique hotel vibes, and the check-in process was seamless. Once we entered our stateroom, we were pleasantly surprised by its spaciousness and elegant natural wood decor. Equipped with ample closet space, a cozy couch, and a high-tech dashboard to manage lights and temperature, it promised comfort throughout our journey. The bathroom came with dual sinks and a walk-in shower, and the large windows opened up to a private balcony, perfect for taking in the scenery.
Joining fellow guests in the lounge, we were welcomed with warmth by Cruise Director Martina Valachova, who introduced us to the ship’s staff. The personal touch was apparent, with a rose offered to each woman—a charming detail that set the tone for our cruise experience. The attentive service level ensured our wine glasses were never empty.
As we sipped Hungarian wines and learned about our week ahead, the AmaMagna began to move, gliding quietly through the waters of Budapest.
Biking in Bratislava, Hiking in Vienna & More
One of the highlights of our AmaWaterways cruise was the opportunity to customize our excursions, all of which were included in the package. Each day featured a variety of activities clearly marked by difficulty level, guided by knowledgeable and personable local experts.
In Bratislava, we chose to bike, covering a scenic route that led us past castles, the UFO-shaped restaurant, and even a WWII bunker.
During our visit to Dürnstein and the breathtaking Wachau Valley, our guide Yolo, with his unique accent, warned us about ABC-fatigue—”another bloody castle/church.” Nonetheless, we embraced it, especially during our tour of the impressive Dürnstein Abbey.
The guided tour of Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, left us in awe, even without photography. Yolo recommended memorable local wines and artisanal treats, which we eagerly packed for our return journey.
We also participated in a full-day tour of Salzburg, where we traced the footsteps of the von Trapp family from “The Sound of Music.” Visiting Mozart’s birthplace and the Museum der Moderne Monchsberg, we were captivated by the stunning city views.
Importantly, opting for excursions each day was a choice not a necessity, as we could also have enjoyed quiet moments onboard, sipping wine on our balcony, highlighting the balance of activity and leisure this cruise offered.
In Vienna, we passed the red carpet for that evening’s Opera Ball and instead took a horse-drawn carriage tour of the city center. While many opted for the optional classical concert that night, we chose to explore Vienna’s vibrant bar scene, visiting lively spots known for their excellent prices and friendly atmospheres.
The following day, an adventurous six-mile hike through the Vienna Woods awaited us. A few less enthusiastic cruisers had opted for a more relaxed day, but those who participated enjoyed picturesque vineyards and the chance to meet a local donkey.
Returning to Budapest for our final stop was surreal, allowing us to reflect on our journey as we cruised past familiar landmarks. We visited the poignant Terror Museum and capped our trip with a vibrant evening at Szimpla Ruin Bar, where we enjoyed live performances and the eclectic art scattered throughout the venue.
What Makes AmaWaterways Unique?
When you board the AmaMagna, a sense of luxury envelops you. The first few days, filled with discovering the ship’s offerings, were made easier with clearly marked signs. After our daily excursions, we were always greeted with heartfelt “Welcome home” from the crew, along with warm fruit tea, perfect for the winter weather.
Speaking with our Cruise Director Martina offered a glimpse into what makes sailing with AmaWaterways exceptional. She shared how the owners are actively involved in ensuring that every aspect of the cruising experience meets their high standards. This year’s itinerary focuses on maximizing cruising time to appreciate the beautiful scenery while exploring culturally rich cities.
AmaWaterways’ mission centers on creating intimate experiences that allow guests to connect with every destination. Their philosophy assures that there’s something special each season—an invitation we couldn’t resist for a future trip.
Onboard activities included a walking track, pool, hot tub, and a unique option for river cruises: pickleball. I proudly recount that my first game was at sunset, docked in Slovakia.
During the Sip & Sail hour, guests relished complimentary cocktails and mocktails, discussing the day’s adventures, often overcoming the tradition of clinking glasses.
Culinary Delights on the AmaMagna
The culinary offerings on the AmaMagna were outstanding, featuring meals crafted from fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The Main Dining Room consistently delivered unforgettable dishes, showcasing a blend of local flair that enhanced our dining experience.
With dishes named highlighting authentic local fare such as slow-braised Black Angus short ribs and traditional Hungarian pork tenderloin, each meal was an experience in itself. My culinary kryptonite, the diverse soup options, never disappointed, and I found myself tasting every variation.
Dinners also featured curated wine pairings, ensuring even the most discerning palates found their favorites among the rotating menu. Each meal included a recitation of dietary preferences shared beforehand, a thoughtful touch that was appreciated by all.
Besides the Main Dining Room, there were other dining venues, like Jimmy’s Restaurant, which fostered a communal dining experience with family-style meals. We also enjoyed Al Fresco, where late-night snacks of local delicacies were a welcomed treat.
Our favorite experience was the Chef’s Table, where the excitement of an open kitchen brought the artistry of each dish to life, making it a memorable highlight of our culinary journey.
Entertainment on the AmaMagna
Our onboard musicians, Richard and Anna, displayed their talents by performing various genres, from jazz to disco, creating a lively atmosphere throughout our cruise. Engaging events like music trivia nights also contributed to the upbeat vibe onboard.
A memorable farewell celebration took place during the second night in Vienna, showcasing both the captivating captain and the remarkable crew, representing numerous countries and backgrounds.
Reflections on Our AmaWaterways Journey
Having experienced various European river cruises, it is clear that AmaWaterways has set a remarkable standard in this genre of travel, striking a fine balance between planned activities and leisurely time. Conversations with the Chief Marketing Officer, Michal Maguire, reinforced the cruise line’s commitment to providing a personalized experience for every guest regardless of their cruising experience.
This journey not only affirmed our interest in river cruising but has undoubtedly made us fans of AmaWaterways. With incentives for returning cruisers, we are already dreaming of our next adventure, perhaps in Colombia.
Source
www.travelzoo.com