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Chairperson’s Melodies of the Danube with Pre-Cruise Budapest Extension

August 4 – 14, 2027

10 Days, 4 Countries

Starting from $8,519 per person

Activity Level: Moderate

Airfare Included!

Trip Details

Set sail on the legendary Danube with Chairperson Cheryl Irwin-Bass. Glide effortlessly through the heart of Europe, past grand imperial cities, medieval villages, and rolling vineyards that seem lifted from a fairytale. From the vibrant charm of Budapest to the timeless elegance of Vienna and the cobblestone magic of Bratislava, each stop invites you to explore, indulge, and be inspired.

Booking Deadline: April 23, 2027

Low booking deposit of $400 per person

AMA Waterways

Daily Itinerary

August 4, 2027 – Overnight flight to Budapest, Hungary

Travel by motorcoach transportation from Central PA to a local international airport for an overnight flight to Budapest
*Group air schedule will be released when available.

August 5, 2027 – Budapest

Arrive in Budapest and relax into the city’s historic embrace.  The city’s vibrant streets, historic landmarks, and the gentle flow of the Danube await your exploration.

August 6, 2027 - Budapest

Wander Budapest’s regal streets and uncover its hidden treasures. Explore Budapest, the “Queen of the Danube,” where iconic sights like Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Hill, and the Hungarian Parliament stand alongside hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Your guide will lead you beyond the riverbanks to uncover the city’s rich history, culture, and lesser-known gems.

August 7, 2027 Embarkation

Check out of your Budapest hotel and embark on your luxurious ship, beginning your river journey in comfort and style. Set sail from Budapest into scenic waterways.

August 8, 2027 - Budapest

Travel between Buda’s turrets and Pest’s grand squares. Explore both sides of the Danube in Budapest, starting with Buda’s Castle District to admire Matthias Church, and sweeping panoramic views. For a more active adventure, hike up Castle Hill. In the afternoon, discover Pest’s highlights, including  Heroes’ Square, and the poignant “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial.

August 9, 2027 Bratislava, Slovakia

Roam Bratislava’s streets where history and flavor meet. Discover Bratislava, the “Coronation City of Kings,” on a walking tour through its historic streets and landmarks. Alternatively, savor local flavors on a “Tastes of Slovakia” tour, or take a hike up to Bratislava Castle for sweeping views of the city. Each path reveals the city’s rich history, culture, and scenic charm.

August 10, 2027 Vienna, Austria

Wander Vienna’s grand boulevards and immerse yourself in imperial splendor. Explore Vienna, the “City of Waltzes,” on a city tour highlighting its regal landmarks, from the majestic Opera House to the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude in the historic city center with a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or discover the city on a bike tour. In the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to further experience Vienna’s culture, architecture, and charm.

August 11, 2027 Weissenkirchen/Melk, Austria

Amble past cobbled streets, savor wine, and drift along the Wachau valley. Arrive in Weissenkirchen and choose from a variety of excursions. Stroll through Dürnstein and visit the UNESCO-listed Melk Abbey, enjoy a wine tasting with local apricot treats, or take a more active adventure hiking to Richard the Lionheart’s fortress or biking to Melk. Later, sail through the Strudengau and Wachau valleys to Grein, where you’ll tour the impressive 500-year-old Greinburg Castle.

August 12, 2027 Linz/Salsburg, Austria

Roam historic squares, grand castles, and riverside avenues. Arrive in Linz and choose from a variety of excursions. Visit Salzburg’s historic center, Mirabell Gardens, and Residenz Square, or explore the Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov, strolling cobblestone streets and touring its impressive castle. Back in Linz, enjoy a walking or bike tour through the city’s highlights, or take a guided tour into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation.

August 13, 2027 Passau, Germany

Explore Passau’s historic streets and riverside vistas before celebrating Bavarian traditions in Vilshofen. Discover Passau on a walking tour, admiring its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or take a guided hike to Veste Oberhaus fortress or a bike ride along the River Inn. Later, cruise to Vilshofen for a festive Oktoberfest celebration, an exclusive AmaWaterways experience.

August 14, 2027 Vilshofen, Germany – Disembarkation – Flight for return home

Bid farewell to your journey along the Danube river coming away with fond memories. Transfer to the airport for your flight and transportation back to Central PA. (Breakfast)
*Group air schedule will be released when available.
**Hotels and Itinerary is subject to change at any time without notification and/or compensation.

Highlights

  • Budapest, Hungary
  • Bratislava, Slovakia
  • Vienna, Weissenkirchen, and Linz, Austria
  • Passau and Vilshofen, Germany

Included Benefits

  • Free parking with roundtrip motorcoach transportation to a local international airport
  • Roundtrip airfare from a local international airport to Budapest and return flight from Munich
  • Two-night pre cruise package in Budapest
  • Breakfast included at hotels
  • 7-night cruise aboard the AMALEA® in select category
  • Meals, snacks and onboard entertainment
  • Premium drink package while onboard the ship
  • Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Champagne Reception and Gala Dinner
  • Daily shore excursions during the cruise with English-speaking expert guides
  • Onboard and land gratuities
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access on board
  • All baggage handling
  • Hosted by AAA Central Penn Chairperson, Cheryl Irwin-Bass
  • Services of a AAA Discoveries Journey Manager

General Info

Payment

Rates Per Person – Double Occupancy:
SS – Suite: $11,959
AA – Balcony Violin Deck: $10,629
AB – Balcony Violin Deck: $10,439
BA – Balcony: $10,249
BB – Balcony: $10,059
CA – French Balcony: $9,489
CB – French Balcony: $9,109
D – Fixed Window: $8,569
E- Fixed Window: $8,519

All non-members must add $60 to the above rates. Single cabin rates are available upon request. The rates listed above include the following which are subject to change: Required Cruise Fees and Expenses of $250 per person. Rates are subject to availability at time of booking. All pricing and included features are based on a minimum of 30 full-fare passengers. Desired pick-up location is not guaranteed until passenger minimums are met.

Payment Schedule

Deposit of $400 per person will confirm your reservation. Final payment is due to AAA by  April 23, 2027.

Cancellation/Penalties

From Day of Deposit – April 5, 2027    $200 per person, plus any additional suppliers fees
From April 6 – May 6, 2027                   $400 per person, plus any additional suppliers fees
From May 7 – June 5, 2027                      35% per person, plus any additional suppliers fees
From June 6 – July 3, 2027                      50% per person, plus any additional suppliers fees
After July 3, 2027                                    100% Non-Refundable

*Airfare is non-refundable after final payment

Flight

Air arrangements are handled by the tour operator. Seat assignments cannot be confirmed until the tour operator releases names to the airlines(s) 30 days prior to departure. Specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed. Some flights may contain code share agreements.

Activity Level

Moderate – Good mobility is required for this trip.  Climbing stairs and standing for 2-3 hours at a time, as well as walking on uneven terrain may be necessary.  Portions of the itinerary may include higher altitudes.  The itinerary may involve longer days up to 12-14 hours in length.  This activity level is not recommended for travelers with significant mobility concerns.

Travel Assistance 

For personal comfort, group participants who need assistance are required to have a traveling companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing the needed assistance.

GRP2527

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport? What about travel visas?

Yes, an original, signed passport valid for 6 months beyond stay, and with at least one blank visa page for visa stamp(s) is required for this trip.  As of the printing of this brochure, all guests are required to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) travel authorization for travel to Europe’s Schengen zone (not included in the price of the trip). Please see your Travel Advisor for additional information.

Do I need travel insurance?

For your protection AAA highly recommends travel insurance. Pre-existing medical conditions may be waived with proper coverage only if travel insurance is purchased within 14 days of initial deposit. Other conditions may apply; ask your Travel Advisor. AAA recommends Allianz Insurance. 

Where will my seat be on the plane?

The group air schedule is in economy class. Air upgrades are available by request only and are not guaranteed. Seat assignments are controlled by the airline. Specific seat requests cannot be guaranteed. Air upgrades may be available and are by request only and are not guaranteed. Any air upgrades or deviations must be requested at the time of the initial deposit. 

How many bags can I bring? What will the weather be like?

One suitcase per person will be allowed. You may also bring a small carry-on bag. Baggage fees are not included in the price of the trip. Baggage fees and other charges may be directly assessed by airlines or airport. Average temperatures in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany for August average in the 70s-80s during the day and 50s-60s in the evenings. Casual clothes that can be layered work best. Comfortable walking shoes and a small umbrella are recommended. Evenings require country club casual attire.

What is a Discoveries Journey Manager?

A Discoveries Journey Manager travels with you on your entire journey. They are there to ensure your trip runs smoothly so you can sit back and relax. They are constantly working behind the scenes, whether it be at airport check-in or cruise disembarkation, they have you covered!

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