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18 Day Classic European River Cruise with Amsterdam Amsterdam to Budapest, Monarch Queen

Amsterdam, Netherlands Round-trip
Length: 18 Days - Departs: Thu, Apr 24, 2025
Operator
Departure
Apr 24, 2025
Arrival
May 11, 2025

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Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

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River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    DAY 1, Thursday - Depart for the Netherlands
    Thu, Apr 24, 2025
    Depart for the Netherlands
  2. Day 2
    DAY 2, Friday - Arrive in Amsterdam
    Fri, Apr 25, 2025
    Welcome to Amsterdam, Holland's sophisticated and modern capital; transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your local host at the hotel at approximately 6 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 4 PM
    Overnight: Amsterdam
  3. Day 3
    DAY 3, Saturday - Amsterdam City Tour
    Sat, Apr 26, 2025
    Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. View Amsterdam's port, one of the main harbors of Dutch East India Company during the Golden Age. Continue to the former Jewish quarter with its 17th century Portuguese Synagogue, and National Holocaust Names Memorial. Pass by the 19th century neighborhood with its classic architecture, museums, and lively squares. Then, board a glass-top boat, and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th century warehouses, and charming churches with striking bell towers. The rest of the day is on your own
    Overnight: Amsterdam
    Meals: Breakfast
  4. Day 4
    DAY 4, Sunday - Cruise Embarkation in Amsterdam
    Sun, Apr 27, 2025
    Time for personal exploration or shopping in Amsterdam* this morning, before the afternoon transfer to the port for embarkation. After arrival formalities, rest and relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
    *Today, the country is celebrating King's Day. Museums may be closed. Expect street closures and large crowds. Feel free to join the festivities.
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    DAY 5, Monday - Leisure Morning in Amsterdam, Afternoon Cruising
    Mon, Apr 28, 2025
    Morning at leisure on board or pick up some last minute Dutch souvenirs. This afternoon, the ship sails south for Germany
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    DAY 6, Tuesday - Cologne City Tour
    Tue, Apr 29, 2025
    Today join a walking tour of Cologne, highlighted by the soaring twin-steeple Gothic cathedral that is the geographical and spiritual heart of the city. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops and taverns. After dinner on board, time to explore Cologne's vibrant nightlife before setting sail
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    DAY 7, Wednesday - Morning in Koblenz & Afternoon Cruising
    Wed, Apr 30, 2025
    The ship docks this morning in Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Join an orientation walk this morning and free time to explore the Romanesque architecture and imposing defensive towers of this 2000-year old city. Or, join the optional tour to the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that's never been destroyed and has been continuously occupied for over 700 years. During lunch, set sail and spend a relaxing afternoon on board, taking in the spectacular vistas as the ship cruises past castles perched on lofty cliffs, terraced vineyards and tiny villages. Pass the mighty Lorelei Rock on the eastern bank of the Rhine rising vertically from the waters, named for the siren "Lorelei" who bewitched sailors passing by
    Optional: Marksburg Castle Tour (AM)
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    DAY 8, Thursday - Miltenberg Walking Tour
    Thu, May 01, 2025
    After a leisurely morning on board, arrive in the picturesque Bavarian village of Miltenberg, a jewel on the banks of the Main River. Discover the Market Square with its Renaissance-era fountain, the Merchant Hall with its stunning Gothic architecture and the unique 14th and 15th century half-timbered houses. Rejoin the ship just before dinner and set sail for Wurzburg
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day 9
    DAY 9, Friday - Wurzburg City Tour
    Fri, May 02, 2025
    Discover Wurzburg, named the "Pearl of the Romantic Road," with its dramatic Marienberg fortress, 15th century bridge and lush vineyards. Your tour takes you to the ornate Bishops' Residenz Palace, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted, named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This afternoon, explore the town on your own, or relax on board
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  10. Day 10
    DAY 10, Saturday - Bamberg City Tour
    Sat, May 03, 2025
    Today, dock in historic Bamberg, former residence of one of Germany's most powerful imperial dynasties and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your walk in the medieval city center with its impressive 11th century Romanesque cathedral and gorgeous Rose Garden. After, view the very unusual City Hall built on a tiny island in the middle of the Regnitz River and Little Venice, an area of colorful fishermen's houses. This afternoon is free to explore Bamberg independently, before setting sail this evening while you dine on board
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  11. Day 11
    DAY 11, Sunday - Nuremberg City Tour
    Sun, May 04, 2025
    Today explore Nuremberg, an energetic city with a visible history of almost one thousand years. The guided excursion visits the historic Palace of Justice where the War Crimes Tribunal met in 1946 and continues to the vibrant Market Square. After lunch on board the ship, the afternoon is free to further discover this wonderful city on your own. Stroll through the shops that fill the Old Town or walk along the fortified walls of Nuremberg Castle. In late afternoon set sail for Regensburg
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  12. Day 12
    DAY 12, Monday - Regensburg City Tour
    Mon, May 05, 2025
    This morning relax on board as the ship cruises the Danube River. Arrive to Regensburg in early afternoon, one of Germany's largest and best preserved medieval cities, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The guided walking tour highlights the city's stunning architecture as you view the Old Town Hall, Dom St. Peter and the Porta Praetoria, gateway to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Marvel at beautiful churches and one of the oldest stone bridges crossing the Danube. Return to the ship or spend the afternoon at leisure discovering the delights of Regensburg on your own. Tonight, after dinner, set sail for Passau
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  13. Day 13
    DAY 13, Tuesday - Morning in Passau
    Tue, May 06, 2025
    Dock this morning in 2500-year-old Passau, known for its pastel patrician houses, cafes, cobblestone lanes and riverfront promenade. Passau is a Bavarian town with a mix of Roman, Italian Baroque and Gothic architecture. Explore Passau on a guided walking tour in the morning, or join the optional full day tour to picturesque Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music. The walking tour will include some of Salzburg's most historic sites including Mirabell Palace, the Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, and St. Peter's Cemetery. After lunch at a local restaurant, there will be time to discover Salzburg on your own before returning to the ship. If you choose to remain onboard the ship, continue sailing during lunch and relax this afternoon. In early evening, all passengers will rejoin the ship and continue sailing for Melk
    Optional: Tour of Salzburg (PM)
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  14. Day 14
    DAY 14, Wednesday - Melk Abbey
    Wed, May 07, 2025
    Disembark in Melk this morning for a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Europe. View the Abbot's chambers, the Kaiser's walk and the lavish library. Then, return to the ship and continue cruising through the scenic Wachau Valley. This afternoon, arrive in the village of Durnstein, one of the prettiest towns on the Danube. Free time to stroll this quintessential village in the heart of the Wachau wine district. Walk along medieval cobblestone streets revealing 16th century town houses and wine taverns
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  15. Day 15
    DAY 18, Sunday - Depart Hungary
    Thu, May 08, 2025
    This morning, disembark and transfer to the airport for your departure flight. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 AM
    Meals: Breakfast

Countries Visited

Austria, Netherlands, Hungary, Slovakia, Germany

Rivers Visited

Danube

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Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

River Cruise Package Includes

  • Flights New York-Amsterdam, Budapest-New York or vice versa
    Other departure cities available.
  • Airline taxes & fuel surcharges
  • 16 nights First Class accommodations
  • 2 nights Amsterdam
  • 14 nights outside cabin aboard the Deluxe or the Superior First Class
  • River port charges of $380 per person
  • Cruise & hotel porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • 43 meals: 16 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 14 dinners
  • Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise
  • Local host in Amsterdam
  • Services of local guides in all major cities
  • Entrance fees per itinerary
  • Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
  • Special Features

  • In Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals
  • Sail on the legendary Rhine to Cologne, capital of the Rhineland
  • View the mighty Lorelei Rock named for the siren "Lorelei" rising vertically from the waters
  • Walk in Bamberg's medieval center with its 11th century Romanesque cathedral
  • In Nuremberg, view the Palace of Justice where the War Crimes Tribunal met in 1946
  • Marvel at the beautiful churches and ancient stone bridges in Regensburg
  • In Melk, join a guided tour of the historic Benedictine Abbey
  • Tour romantic Vienna with its legendary opulence and elegance
  • See magnificent panoramic views of Budapest from atop Fisherman's Bastion
  • River Cruise Features & Amenities

  • Welcome dinner and farewell dinner
  • Wine and beer with dinners
  • Locally inspired recipes
  • Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access in public areas
  • Self-serve coffee and tea station
  • Lounge serving premium spirits
  • Fitness center
  • Non-smoking ship interior
  • Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English by licensed guides
  • Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

    European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

    †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

    Not Included:
    Optional shore excursions and gratuities.


    Additional Information:
    Land/Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

    Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

    While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: .

    Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

    European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

    Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

    Ship Information

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    Cabins

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    Life on Board

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    Questions & Answers

    Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

    Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

    Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

    The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

    Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.4
    Accommodations
    4.3
    Itinerary
    4.6
    Professional Staff
    4.4
    Repeat with Operator
    4.4
    Value for Money
    4.2

    Ratings based off 18 reviews - currently showing 7 reviews with comments only

    Tour Director was excellent, very professional, helpful, knowledgeable and delightful. Activities Director, also excellent. The whole staff could not have been better. Best tour I've been on. Food was very good. One thing I found is all the guides give too much information/details, the non stop commentary whether on the bus or at the visiting sites is too long and tiring.

    Rhine river cruise was excellent. Staff on the Monarch Queen was friendly and service was great. Cruise director and local guides were very knowledgeable. Overall wonderful experience.

    I don't remember seeing the room options and would have considered a cabin on a higher floor for more of a view. There is a lot of details and for an inexperienced traveler it can be overwhelming. Perhaps a mention of how the rooms work on a cruise would have been helpful.

    This River Cruise was wonderful we will book one again.

    Second experience with Gate1 and on both occasions we had very knowledgeable guides and effective tour managers. The tour stops were well timed so we did not spend a lot of time in line anywhere. The service on the river ship was excellent, the food very good and we really enjoyed the somewhat casual dinner dress code and atmosphere.

    am a long-term traveler with gate 1 so i obviously consider they provide a good program; amsterdam tour pretrip couldn't have been better, river ship staff & services great; however, the 2 gate 1 tour directors on board the river ship could have provided better service--local guides did most of the am local tours, afternoons were largely free, only extra activities provided was an hour game program in the afternoon & a morning exercise program along with early bird breakfast--both provided by the male tour director; the ship's pianist only played briefly; several travelers who were new to gate 1 were complaining about too much free time & i went out of my way to explain that this was unusual; i need to mention that, along with being a gate 1 traveler, we have also taken 5 other river boat cruises;

    We were delighted with the Gate1 River cruise. staff was professional, competent, courteous and friendly. food and service excellent. cabin efficient and clean. Itinerary was the right balance between guided tours and free time. we loved the small towns more than the large cities. many people on board were sick and the crew handled this expertly. space on board the ship is limited since the upper deck was off limits for much of the time but we were sailing mostly in the evenings after a full day's activities so it did not feel restrictive. we would definitely consider another river cruise and will definitely go on other tours with Gate1.

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