Magnificent Europe (Amsterdam to Budapest) 2011

Day 1 Amsterdam. Fly to Amsterdam where you will be met and transferred to your cruise ship for 14 nights. (D)

Day 2 Amsterdam. Holland’s capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. This delightful 700 year old city with its elegant and classic architecture, cafés and restaurants, and lively marketplace has a distinct ambience. There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by canal boat, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam’s ‘Golden Age’. After your included canal cruise, your ship sets sail for Cologne. (B,L,D)

Day 3 Cologne. Cologne is one of Germany’s largest cities, with a skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs. Try a Kölsch in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original ‘eau de cologne’. (B,L,D)

Day 4 Rhine Gorge – Rüdesheim. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge and pass the legendary Lorelei Rock, where it is thought the sweet songs of sirens lured enchanted sailors to their doom. In Rüdesheim, enjoy a visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum and free time to explore the Drosselgasse. (B,L,D)

Day 5 Miltenberg. Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that once thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and Renaissance houses and the gothic splendour of the Merchant Hall that you will see on your guided sightseeing tour. This afternoon, enjoy a baking demonstration. (B,L,D)

Day 6 Würzburg. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Romantic Road’, Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. Today, a visit to the magnificent Bishop’s Residenz, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is included. (B,L,D)

Day 7 Bamberg. Another beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the Old Town Hall, which straddles the River Regnitz, and its serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th century mansions. (B,L,D)

Day 8 Nuremberg. Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during World War II, much of it has been restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg’s traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metalworking. After dinner, sample some of Germany’s famous beers. (B,L,D)

Day 9 Regensburg. Regensburg is one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall and Porta Pretoria - gates the Roman fort built in 179AD. (B,L,D)

Day 10 Passau – Linz. Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. Its cathedral, St Stephen’s, houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full day excursion to Salzburg takes in the sights made famous by the popular film 'The Sound of Music'. (B,L,D)

Day 11 Melk – Dürnstein. Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey dominates the town from its commanding hilltop site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. Dürnstein, known for the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade, lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Above the town are the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192. (B,L,D)

Day 12 Vienna. Once the centre of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Vienna has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard and awe-inspiring St Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your city tour. Take time to savour each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighbourhood café. An optional concert is available tonight. (B,L,D)

Day 13 Bratislava. Situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, Bratislava is the capital of Slovakia. The charming Old Town with its Town Hall and Mirbach Palace, as well as the gothic cathedral of St Martin, should not be missed. (B,L,D)

Day 14 Budapest. Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Seven bridges connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church is among the impressive sights you’ll see on your included tour. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (B,L,D)

Day 15 Budapest. Disembark and transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)