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Imagine gliding along the serene waters of the Danube, where each gentle curve of the river reveals a new snapshot of history, culture, and cuisine. Aboard AmaWaterways' regal AmaMagna ship, this vision bursts to life as guests awaken to a luxurious and personalized experience far beyond traditional river cruising.
Known for its exceptional service and unmatched repeat guest rate, AmaWaterways offers an immersive and unforgettable journey. As a shining example of all that a river cruise can be, the Magna on the Danube itinerary—personally curated by Rudi Schreiner, Co-Founder of AmaWaterways and widely regarded as the Godfather of River Cruising—promises not only exclusive experiences but a deeper connection to Europe's past.
The Magna on the Danube Experience
Embarking on the journey from Budapest, the Magna on the Danube itinerary promises an immersive weeklong exploration through Slovakia, Austria, and Germany, culminating in the picturesque town of Vilshofen. Each destination along the seven-night voyage is steeped in unique experiences, with personalized service at every turn.
Itinerary Highlights
The journey begins in Budapest, where the city's grandeur is evident in landmarks like the Parliament Building, a neo-Gothic marvel completed in 1902. As one of Europe's oldest legislative buildings, visitors will find immediate exposure to Hungary's storied past. Another highlight is the UNESCO-listed Buda Castle, an imposing complex that has evolved since the 13th century, showcasing Gothic and Baroque architectural styles in true form. Visitors can also stroll across the Chain Bridge, which elegantly spans the Danube, connecting Buda and Pest.
A few days into the journey, Bratislava, Slovakia—with its dramatic hilltop castle overlooking the Danube—invites visitors to examine history dating back to the 9th century. Once pivotal in the capital city's defense against Ottoman invasions in the 16th and 17th centuries, Bratislava Castle is an enduring symbol of resilience today. St. Martin's Cathedral, where eleven kings and eight queens were crowned between the 16th and 19th centuries, only adds to the city's historical significance.
In Vienna, the opulence of Schönbrunn Palace—a former imperial summer residence and a masterpiece of Rococo architecture—offers a glimpse into the grandeur of the Habsburg monarchy, almost impossible to describe without beholding it firsthand. St. Stephen's Cathedral, an iconic Gothic structure, has also witnessed significant events in Austrian history, from Mozart's wedding to the burial ceremonies of several Habsburg rulers. The city's blend of imperial history and modern culture makes it another fascinating cruise stop.
Exclusive Adventures
One of the unique aspects of this evocative seven-night itinerary is the exclusive stop in Spitz, a singular experience for guests. On Day 5, travelers on board can explore both Krems and Spitz, located just under 12 miles apart, with various optional activities.
From Krems, guests can choose between a walking tour, a culinary-focused apricot tour, a fortress hike, or even a scenic bike ride. The day continues with an afternoon visit to the historic Melk Abbey or active options such as a bike tour or a hike in Spitz. The evening culminates with a private wine tasting featuring regional specialties such as Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.
Cultural Immersion
Guests can indulge in exclusive tours and events that deepen their cultural immersion throughout the journey. These include guided tours by local experts, participatory activities in local festivals, and more. Each activity connects intrepid travelers with the essence of the destination, making the Magna on the Danube itinerary a truly remarkable adventure.
Culinary Delights on the Danube River
AmaWaterways elevates the culinary experience with a focus on regionally inspired cuisine. Enjoy farm-to-table dining with locally sourced ingredients, such as organic fruit and jam, from the Altenriederer Family Farm near Krems, Austria. And delight in regional dishes like Wiener schnitzel, Hungarian goulash, and seasonal German spargel, all enhanced by local flavors like Wachau Valley apricots and Hungarian paprika.
Dining venues on AmaMagna offer diverse culinary experiences. The Main Restaurant serves traditional and contemporary dishes, while The Chef's Table provides a multi-course dinner with exquisite wine to complement the meal. Jimmy's offers family-style dining with a focus on community and sharing, and the Al Fresco Restaurant specializes in vegetable-forward dishes in an intimate setting. Dining at all restaurants aboard the AmaMagna are included with the cruise.
Special culinary events further enrich the dining experience. Indulge in a lavish Bavarian brunch with traditional German dishes, participate in wine tastings featuring regional vintages, and enjoy cooking demonstrations with local chefs, such as making traditional apple strudel.
Luxurious Onboard Amenities
As a river vessel, AmaMagna is unparalleled. It boasts exceptionally spacious and comfortable accommodations, with 355- to 710-square-foot suites. Each features a full balcony, plush bedding, marble bathrooms, and Entertainment-on-Demand systems. For families and groups, there are options for connecting staterooms and additional accommodations for triple and quadruple occupancy upon booking request.
While visitors are never truly far from adventures on land, the ship's leisure and wellness offerings include both a sun-deck pool and whirlpool—a pairing unique to AmaMagna—and the Zen Wellness Studio furnished with a state-of-the-art fitness center, massage rooms, hair and nail salons, and outdoor spin bikes. Active guests can also enjoy the full-size pickleball court.
Additional features such as intimate libraries and bars, an onboard cinema, a split-level Main Lounge, an atrium, and the option to reserve an exclusive Concierge Golf Program set AmaMagna apart from other river cruise ships. Ultimately, no matter one’s idea of the perfect river cruise experience—whether active adventure or more laid-back exploration—the high level of personalized service from the crew ensures a luxurious and comfortable experience throughout the journey.
Personalized and Authentic Excursions
As if the destinations along the Magna on the Danube itinerary needed more to offer, AmaWaterways excels in providing personalized and authentic experiences on land. Up to eight daily excursions are included in the stay—a truly unmatched offering, as any cruiser can attest. These excursions range from guided hikes and cycling tours to delectable culinary experiences and visits to local farms, vineyards, and cultural sites, with each tour designed to bring the destination to life.
Immersive cultural activities include participating in traditional events such as a year-round Oktoberfest during the cruise, tastings of local and regional delicacies, and access to historical sites with excursions offered at three unique activity levels. Expert-led tours by knowledgeable local guides and historians provide in-depth exploration of cultural and historical contexts tailored to guests' interests.
Embark on Your Own Unforgettable Danube Journey
Cruising the Danube with AmaWaterways aboard the award-winning AmaMagna offers an unparalleled experience of luxury, culture, and culinary delight. This journey is like no other in Europe, from exploring historical landmarks and immersing in local traditions to savoring regionally inspired cuisine and enjoying top-notch amenities. Discover more about upcoming journeys on AmaMagna, and reserve your river cruise with AmaWaterways today.