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Magnificent Europe and Norwegian Fjords

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Operated by APT
Tripcode: EUMCRSS24
Overview
Destination:
Denmark
Hungary
Duration:24 days
Type:Group tour (max 45)
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Small Ship Cruise,
Travel Period
May 2027 - May 2027
Budapest → Copenhagen

Journey through the heart of Europe and the breathtaking coasts of Scandinavia on this extraordinary voyage. Begin with a luxury river cruise along the Rhine, Main and Danube, where grand cities like Budapest, Vienna and Amsterdam meet storybook villages tucked along the waterways. Then continue north, sailing across the North Sea to Norway’s fjord country. Here, sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls and glassy waters frame charming towns such as Flåm and Balestrand, while historic ports like Stavanger and Rosendal reveal a rich cultural heritage. Conclude your journey in Copenhagen, a vibrant city where royal palaces and cobbled streets mingle with modern design. From Europe’s iconic rivers to Scandinavia’s natural wonders, this journey captures the very best of two remarkable worlds.

Highlights
  • Head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of the Austrian capital of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. During this extraordinary Signature Experience, a full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital.

  • On this incredible Signature Experience in Austria, be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’.

  • Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens during this exclusive Signature Experience, you’ll attend a morning tea, where a pianist sets the mood.

  • Travel on the legendary Flåm Railway, hailed as one of the world’s most spectacular train rides. Climb from sea level in Flåm up to the mountain station at Myrdal, where dramatic landscapes unfold: steep valley sides, roaring waterfalls including the famous Kjosfossen, lush river valleys, and sweeping views of the Aurlandsfjord. This hour-long ride offers a front-row seat to Western Norway’s raw, natural beauty.

  • Step into Gamle Logen, one of Oslo’s most treasured cultural landmarks, for a captivating musical performance that brings to life the story of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s greatest composer.

Highlights:
Itinerary
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Day 1 - Arrive Budapest, Embark Ship

Welcome to Budapest. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your luxurious floating home for the next 13 nights. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship. In the evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome to remember. Enjoy a performance of Hungarian folk music while you indulge in local brandy, as well as artisan meats and cheeses.

Day 2 - Budapest

Choose your sightseeing option in Budapest today. This afternoon, your ship will begin cruising towards Vienna.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour

Enjoy a morning city tour of Budapest, exploring historic monuments like Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen's Basilica.

Freedom of Choice – Culinary Tour

Eat your way through Budapest as you embark on a tour of the Great Market Hall. Wander through this large indoor market and discover a variety of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Freedom of Choice – Funicular Ride 

Board a funicular to Castle Hill for superb views, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion.  

Day 3 - Vienna

Enjoy a relaxing morning cruising to Vienna. On arrival, take in the city’s many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Day 4 - Vienna

Set out on your chosen sightseeing activity this morning. In the evening, an unforgettable Signature Experience awaits.

Freedom of Choice – Schönbrunn Palace Visit

Tour inside Schönbrunn Palace, the summer palace of the Habsburgs. Discover the apartments of former emperors and take some time to wander the immaculate grounds.   

Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia

Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.   

Freedom of Choice – Vienna Culinary Tour

Immerse yourself in Viennese cuisine on a culinary tour of Vienna's narrow streets. Visit a traditional cafe, try a classic Viennese sausage, and sample a sweet treat from one of the city's famous patisseries.

Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic performance.

Day 5 - Dürnstein, Melk

Explore the beautiful town of Dürnstein before choosing your activity.  Later, visit Melk Abbey.

Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley

Cruise through the Wachau Valley to Melk. Admire stunning landscapes dotted with vineyards, charming villages and historic castles nestled amid lush hills.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Dürnstein to Melk

Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Dürnstein to Melk, and take in the scenery of the picturesque Wachau Valley.

Day 6 - Linz, Salzburg, Passau

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show

Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser — a hunting horn blower — into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, The Sound of Music.

Day 7 - Regensburg

Enjoy the chance to personalise your day with a choice of sightseeing activities on offer.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Tour of Regensburg’s World Heritage-Listed City Centre

Explore Regensburg's World Heritage-listed city centre on a guided tour. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. Your tour will finish with a tasting at Regensburg’s historic sausage kitchen, thought to be one of the oldest working restaurants in the world.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial

Set out on a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Day 8 - Nuremberg

This morning, continue cruising along the Main-Danube Canal while indulging in a Bavarian beer, sausage and pretzel tasting on the Daystar Deck. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas. On arrival in Nuremberg, set out on your preferred activity.

Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites

Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938.

Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour

Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, the main market square and its 14th-century Gothic church.

Day 9 - Bamberg

Arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, one of the few German cities that wasn’t destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the Regnitz River. Otherwise, take it easy and relax on board.

Day 10 - Würzburg

Today unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.

Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence

The immense architectural beauty of Würzburg is on display today as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg

Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful houses as you stroll. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wohlfahrt’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest collection of German Christmas decorations in the world.

Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress

Enjoy a hike to Würzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Forstress, an imposing castle overlooking the city, which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

Freedom of Choice – Tastes of Franconia

Travel to the Volkacher Mainschleife, the largest wine-growing region in Franconia and home to one of the most famous Franconian whisky distilleries. Here, enjoy a guided tour and meet the whisky and winemaker to uncover the art of making whisky. Savour a tasting of their finest creations paired with freshly baked bread from a local bakery.

Day 11 - Miltenberg

Step ashore in Miltenberg today and set out on your chosen sightseeing activity. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Walking Tour and Liqueur Tasting

Embark on a guided exploration of Miltenberg. Discover the town's remarkably preserved buildings and lively squares, offering a unique glimpse into Germany’s rich history. Then, visit one of Franconia's oldest wine cellars for a tasting of local liqueurs.

Freedom of Choice – Local Monastery Visit

Travel to the hills overlooking Miltenberg for a visit to a local monastery. Here, you'll meet with a Franciscan friar to hear about life in the monastery. You'll also sample some homemade sausages, cheese and bread before free time to wander through the gardens and vineyard.

Day 12 - Rüdesheim

Dock in Rüdesheim this morning, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, embark on your chosen activity. This afternoon, you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards.

Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.

Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This eccentric and unique museum is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar

Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.

Day 13 - Andernach

Today, enjoy an exclusive Signature Experience. The afternoon will be spent cruising onwards to the Netherlands.

Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a 14th-century residence set near the Rhine River in Germany. Go beyond the gates and wander about the rooms, hidden nooks and manicured grounds. You’ll then enjoy a morning tea, where a pianist playing classical music sets the mood.

Day 14 - Amsterdam, Disembark APT Solara, Embark Seabourn Venture

Arrive in Amsterdam where you will depart your river ship and be transferred to the Seabourn Venture.

Day 15 - Day at Sea

Unwind on board during a full day at sea, enjoying an array of onboard activities and world-class dining options. Perhaps attend an informative lecture at the Discovery Centre, take in the expansive views from the Constellation Lounge, or book a treatment in the spa and indulge in some pampering.

Day 16 - Stavanger

Arrive in Stavanger today, located in southwest Norway, and country's dynamic oil capital, where pristine white-sand beaches meet dramatic fjords and soaring mountains. Choose from a selection of experiences to shape your day.

Freedom of Choice – Pulpit Rock Hike

Embark on a scenic coach transfer to Preikestolen, the starting point of the iconic Pulpit Rock hike. This remarkable natural plateau, measuring 25 by 25 metres, rises 604 metres above the Lysefjord, offering panoramic views over the fjord’s 42-kilometre (26-mile) expanse. The hike rewards you with breathtaking views, a perfect opportunity to connect with Norway’s striking landscapes.

Freedom of Choice – Stavanger: From Oil to Oil

Discover Stavanger’s fascinating transformation from a humble fishing town to the heart of Norway’s oil industry. Explore a preserved canning factory and experience the historic production line firsthand. Continue with an exclusive guided tour of the Norwegian Petroleum Museum to gain unique insights into the workings of a Norwegian oil rig. Conclude your journey with a stroll through the charming streets of Old Stavanger, where narrow lanes are lined with quaint, well-preserved wooden houses.

Freedom of Choice – Lysefjord Boat Trip

Step aboard a local vessel for a scenic cruise through the Stavanger archipelago and the majestic Lysefjord. This 42-kilometre (26-mile) fjord cuts deep into Rogaland County, revealing dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and traditional mountain farms. Along the way, admire Norway’s iconic natural landmark, Pulpit Rock, and soak in some of the country’s most awe-inspiring scenery from the water.

Day 17 - Balestrand, Flåm

This morning, arrive in the picturesque fjord town of Balestrand, a serene gateway to Norway’s dramatic landscapes. From here, embark on fjord cruise to Finnabotn, a hidden gem tucked into the narrowest part of the Sognefjorden. As you glide along the fjord, marvel at the breathtaking scenery, including the entrance to Arnafjorden, one of Sognefjord’s most charming and photogenic branches.

Approaching Finnabotn, the fjord narrows, accessible only by smaller vessels such as the one you’ll be aboard, adding an intimate sense of adventure. Enter the heart of this secluded lagoon, surrounded by steep, towering mountains and pristine wilderness.

As you cruise, witness waterfalls cascading down sheer cliffs into the tranquil waters, fed by melting ice and snow from the surrounding peaks. In summer, the landscape transforms into a lush, verdant haven, with vegetation reaching down to the lagoon’s edge, creating a scene of breathtaking beauty and serenity — a magnificent glimpse of Norway’s unspoiled fjord country.

Day 18 - Flåm

There’s much to experience in Flåm today, beginning with a Signature Experience aboard the legendary Flåm Railway.

Signature Experience – Flåm Railway

Embark on one of the world’s most breathtaking train journeys, traveling 20 kilometres (12.4 miles) from the fjord-side village of Flåm to the mountain station at Myrdal. Along the route, marvel at sheer cliffs, alpine valleys, and tunnels carved into the rock, each turn revealing sweeping vistas of Norway’s dramatic landscapes. Pause at the thundering Kjosfossen Waterfall, a natural spectacle that epitomises the grandeur of the fjords.

Day 19 - Rosendal

Travel to Rosendal, a charming village nestled in the heart of the Hardangerfjord region, where dramatic fjord vistas and serene landscapes create a perfect backdrop for exploration. Once here, set off on your selected sightseeing experiences.

Freedom of Choice – Bondhus Lake and Glacier Walk

Embark on a scenic half-day adventure from Rosendal to the enchanting Bondhus Valley, one of Norway’s most iconic glacier landscapes. Begin with a comfortable drive through verdant valleys before setting out along an easy, well-maintained trail leading to the pristine Bondhus Lake. Along the way, wander through lush forests, follow sparkling streams, and take in spectacular views of the Bondhusbreen Glacier as it descends from the Folgefonna icecap. At the tranquil lakeside, pause to capture the scenery, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and learn about the valley’s rich natural and cultural history. Continue along the shoreline for even closer glacier vistas, where reflections of ice and peaks create truly unforgettable sights. The journey includes a relaxing coffee break at Ola Løa, a traditional mountain hut, where you can enjoy a warm drink and a taste of local hospitality before returning to Rosendal.

Freedom of Choice – Rosendal Walking Tour

Discover the allure of Rosendal on a leisurely walking tour that combines scenic village streets, geological wonders, and one of Norway’s most elegant historic estates. Begin in the village centre, where your guide introduces you to Rosendal’s deep connection to the surrounding fjord and mountain landscape. Stroll to Steinparken (The Stone Park), a unique outdoor exhibition featuring more than 40 stone types from the Folgefonna glacier region. As you continue through the village, hear stories of Rosendal’s cultural heritage before arriving at the highlight of the tour: Baroniet Rosendal. Established in 1665, Scandinavia’s smallest castle is celebrated for its exquisite rose gardens, elegant interiors, and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 20 - Mandal

Stop in the delightful coastal town of Mandal on Norway's southern trip, renowned for its pristine white-sand beaches, colourful wooden houses, and serene southern Norwegian charm. Spend the day enjoying your chosen curated experience.

Freedom of Choice – Kristiansand Guided Tour and Seafood Tasting

Travel from Mandal to Kristiansand along scenic southern Norwegian landscapes and enjoy a guided walking tour of the city’s highlights. Explore the vibrant city centre, historic wooden districts, and picturesque waterfront, gaining insight into Kristiansand’s culture and heritage. Conclude your experience with a seafood tasting at a waterfront restaurant, savouring local delicacies such as prawns, crab, herring, salmon, and mussels, perfectly paired with regional wines or craft beer.

Freedom of Choice – Norwegian Forest Hike

Journey from Mandal to Kristiansand via a stunning coastal route before embarking on a guided hike through Baneheia, a tranquil forested area overlooking the city. Wander along gentle woodland trails, passing serene lakes and lush greenery, and ascend to a panoramic viewpoint with sweeping vistas of the coastline. Descend into Ravnedalen Park, a historic landscaped garden, and enjoy refreshments at a local cafe before returning to Mandal.

Day 21 - Oslo

Today, arrive in Oslo, Norway’s vibrant capital and a haven for art, culture, and history. Spend the day discovering the city with your choice of a tailored experience. In the evening, an exclusive Signature Experience awaits.

Freedom of Choice – Norway’s Intrepid Explorers

Delve into Norway’s proud legacy of exploration with a guided visit to the Kon‑Tiki Museum and the Fram Museum. Celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Scandinavia’s pioneering adventurers and view the Fram, the world’s strongest wooden ship, built for historic polar expeditions. Gain a deeper understanding of the courage, ingenuity, and endurance that defined Norway’s explorers.

Freedom of Choice – Oslo Highlights

Experience the city’s highlights on a comprehensive guided tour. Explore the Historic Museum, home to Norway’s most significant archaeological and ethnographic collections, before strolling through Vigeland Park, featuring over 200 expressive sculptures by Gustav Vigeland. Conclude with a visit to the Holmenkollen Ski Jump, where panoramic views over Oslo and the Oslofjord provide a stunning perspective of the city and its surrounding landscapes.

Freedom of Choice – Oslo Bike Ride

Discover Oslo from a unique perspective on a guided cycling tour through the city’s largely car-free streets. Pass key landmarks including Akershus Fortress, City Hall, and Vigeland Sculpture Park, while observing the architectural evolution from historic neighbourhoods to the modern waterfront at Aker Brygge and Tjuvholmen. Enjoy scenic vistas along the Oslofjord as you explore more of the city than is possible on foot.

Signature Experience – An Evening with Edvard Grieg

Step into Gamle Logen, one of Oslo’s most treasured cultural landmarks. Built in 1836 in elegant Empire style, this historic venue has hosted concerts, banquets, and civic gatherings for nearly two centuries. Delight in a captivating performance that brings to life the story of Edvard Grieg, Norway’s greatest composer.

Told through the voice of Nina Hagerup, portrayed by an acclaimed soprano, and accompanied by a professional violinist and pianist, experience the intimate tale of Grieg’s life —from his childhood home in Bergen to his formative years in Leipzig, his encounters with fellow artists, his travels, and his deep bond with Norway’s landscapes. Each chapter highlights how cultural heritage and natural beauty inspired the melodies that established Grieg as a musical legend.

Day 22 - Lysekil

Your cruise calls at Lysekil, the sole Swedish port on this journey, where dramatic granite headlands, rugged coastal scenery, and maritime charm define Sweden’s west coast. Choose from a bespoke Freedom of Choice experience to make the most of your visit.

Freedom of Choice – Fiskebäckskil by Fjord and Foot

Begin at Lysekil’s harbour and board a local ferry for a scenic crossing to the island of Skaftö. Upon arrival in Fiskebäckskil, explore streets lined with colourful wooden houses, visit the 18th‑century church, and see the former home of renowned artist Carl Wilhelmson. Enjoy time at leisure to further wander the village, take photographs, or relax with a coffee before returning by ferry and coach to your ship.

Freedom of Choice – Coastal Panoramas and Cliffside Trails

Embark on a guided walk through a coastal nature reserve, where striking rock formations and sweeping sea views highlight Sweden’s rugged west coast. Follow marked trails across varied terrain, visit a marine centre to glimpse local sea life, and traverse cliff-top paths that reveal dramatic vistas. Conclude with a stroll along a seaside promenade, discovering historic sites that illuminate the region’s rich maritime heritage.

Day 23 - Copenhagen

Admire Copenhagen, Denmark’s vibrant capital, where historic canals, colourful waterfront houses, and charming cobblestone streets create an inviting backdrop for exploration. Experience the city on your selected activity.

Freedom of Choice – Essential Copenhagen

Begin with a panoramic drive through Copenhagen’s historic centre before boarding a private Stromma canal boat for a serene cruise along the city’s waterways. Glide past the colourful facades of Nyhavn, the striking Opera House, and the picturesque canals of Christianshavn, while your guide shares insights into Copenhagen’s maritime heritage. Conclude with a leisurely stroll around Amalienborg Palace and the architectural masterpiece of the Marble Church, absorbing the elegance of Denmark’s royal heart.

Freedom of Choice – Copenhagen’s Royal Heritage

Set out on a scenic drive through the city, culminating in a visit to Rosenborg Castle, where opulent interiors and the Danish Crown Jewels offer a glimpse into centuries of royal tradition. Continue to Christiansborg Palace for an inside visit of the refined Royal Reception Rooms, adorned with exquisite French tapestries gifted to Queen Margrethe II. Conclude with a panoramic drive past the Royal Theatre and the manicured Rosenborg Gardens, completing an elegant journey through Copenhagen’s royal legacy.

Day 24 - Disembark Ship, Depart Copenhagen

This morning, you’ll disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Dates

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Operator
APT

APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.

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