As co-founders, Rudi and I have always enjoyed exploring faraway countries and developing river cruises in fascinating destinations like Colombia, Egypt, South Africa and Vietnam and Cambodia. But we also have a strong attachment to our European cruises that reflect our personal heritage and showcase our shared culinary passion for fresh local ingredients and regional wine offerings. With over 30 itineraries on 12 delightful rivers in Europe to choose from, you might be surprised to learn which ones Rudi and I have chosen as our personal favorites for cruising in 2025!
Rudi’s Pick
Affectionately known as the “godfather of river cruising”, Rudi was born and raised in Austria and has personally curated a new itinerary for 2025 - Best of the Danube - celebrating the rich culture and musical history of his birthplace. Rudi designed this special itinerary to include an overnight stay docked in the center of Vienna with ample time for guests to discover the culinary riches of his hometown. Also incorporated is an abundance of daytime river cruising perfectly planned to sip a glass or two of Austria’s Grüner Veltliner wine while taking in the scenic Wachau Valley, a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. For repeating guests who may have already visited Salzburg, the incomparable birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a day to discover the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov is definitely a must-see inclusion of this new itinerary.
As an added convenience, this 7-night cruise starts and ends in Budapest, Hungary which often results in less expensive airfares and makes our 2-night pre-cruise land package in Budapest a wonderful addition to the cruise.
Kristin’s Pick
Most river cruisers have heard stories about, or experienced, the enchanting castle-laden journey through the spectacular Rhine Gorge, but my “favorite” itinerary through my home country of Germany also takes guests on a side journey down Germany’s less traveled Moselle River. Meandering through the steepest vineyards in Europe and visiting up to three picturesque German villages along the way, guests can take their time to enjoy historical castles in Cochem and Bernkastel and the unexpected Roman ruins in Trier. There are so many opportunities for hiking and biking along the Moselle River and did I almost forget to mention how the Riesling wines from this region are considered some of the finest white wines produced in the world?
AmaMagna’s Godmother and beloved travel tv host, Samantha Brown, calls quieter experiences like those found along the Moselle River, the “commas” of travel. While the mighty Rhine never fails to deliver its “exclamation” mark experiences, the gentle Moselle adds the “comma” moments perfect for returning guests to sit back and reflect on, or hike and pedal through, the natural beauty all around you.
Slowing down to appreciate a destination has become an important element of how modern travelers define luxury, and for that reason my favorite itineraries for 2025 are the 10-night Rhine & Moselle Delights and 11-night Rhine & Moselle Fairytales. We have just created a new video that I am sure you will enjoy: The Best Cruises on the Rhine & Moselle Rivers (youtube.com).
Our Guests’ Pick
Whichever itinerary you have in mind for 2025 or 2026, rest assured that our exceptional Cruise Managers and wonderful crew are waiting to welcome you and make it your “favorite” itinerary ever!