Budapest

If you find it challenging to plan an itinerary for Eastern Europe because you’re uncertain about which countries and sites to prioritize, a Danube River cruise offers an excellent solution. A cruise combines the benefits of multiple destinations without extensive planning. Accompanied by a pre-cruise tour, you can experience five countries and numerous cities in just nine days, all while only needing to unpack twice. AmaWaterways, a renowned luxury cruise line, caters to a wide range of age groups, making their cruises appealing to a diverse range of travelers. They offer three distinct excursion levels at each port, ensuring there's something that appeals to everyone. Most port excursion offerings include a regular city tour, a gentle city tour, a hike and a bike ride. And all tours are included in the price of the cruise — do as many or as few as you want. The AmaBella has 80 staterooms, a large top sundeck with a pool and spa, a lounge, a formal dining room, a fitness center and a private room for dining at the chef’s table.

Budapest is a magical city known for gorgeous architecture and amazing food -- and its thermal baths! Just like each visitor, each bath in the region has it own personality. Knowing what to expect will help narrow the decision of which to visit during your time in Budapest.

If you find yourself in Europe with a few extra days to spare, Budapest, Hungary, is a lovely destination to add on to your itinerary. Filled with history, beauty and modern day luxuries, Budapest is great for couples, friends or anyone looking for an easy-access, lower-budget and charming destination.

Budapest has many well-known destinations for travelers and they are stunning. This guide also explores some locations that are slightly off the beaten path and well worth taking the time to seek out. Whether you are staying for a day or two before or after a river cruise or for a bit longer, there is plenty in Budapest (and in some nearby towns) to explore.

AmaWaterways’ Gems of Southeast Europe voyage is a 7-night cruise through five European countries, following the Danube River between Budapest, Hungary and Giurgiu, Romania. Learn about the region’s ancient history and see the scars of its recent conflicts. This was a chance to explore a not undiscovered but less visited region of Europe. This was my seventh river cruise with AmaWaterways. The captain, cruise manager and crew brought the same standard of excellence and luxury I have come to expect when I board one of their ships.

In July 2024, we took our "dream" vacation as a celebration of our 25th anniversary. We had booked a Viking river cruise for 2023, but were offered an amazing deal to rebook for a different sailing — and we just couldn't turn down the offer. This "Grand European River Cruise" was exactly that — a grand experience we will never forget. From the ship's staff, beautiful accommodations and excellent food to the scenic river valleys and port excursions, this trip was everything we dreamed of. For anyone who is on the fence about taking a river cruise, don't wait! This is the absolute best value and one I would definitely recommend.

This itinerary guides you through three of central Europe's most enriching and culturally diverse cities. From St. Peter's Basilica in Vienna to the Devil's Chanel of Prague to the moving pieces in the museums that makes up Hungarian Art Nouveau — this is a trip that is sure to enrich.

The Christmas markets of Eastern Europe are holiday magic. The cool air, the twinkling lights, tasty treats, and warm mulled wine make browsing the cheery booths for decorations and gifts a winter wonderland. Along the Danube, sit three capitals that are home to festive Christmas markets. Their close proximity makes it easy to visit all three on one trip.

Budapest, Hungary is a beautiful city that invites travelers from all around for its rich history, vibrant culture and striking architecture. With the Széchenyi Chain Bridge connecting the Buda and Pest sides of the city over the Danube River, you have an endless list of sights to explore, history to learn and food to devour. This destination has a little bit of everything for someone - no matter your travel style. This itinerary is a great way to spend your time in Budapest whether it’s your only destination or part of a longer European adventure. As someone who has visited this city multiple times, this guide is a compilation of my favorite spots in this city. This charming Hungarian capital left me in awe each day, and I look forward to returning again one day.

Split by the Danube into two distinct sides, Budapest is a vibrant and breathtaking city brimming with history at every turn. It offers endless opportunities for exploration, making it a haven for history and culture enthusiasts. Whether you're taking a food tour, visiting majestic churches, enjoying an opera performance or relaxing in thermal baths, there's something for everyone.The people are kind, the food is delicious and the city feels alive. Even in the dead of winter. What more could you ask for?