Shore Excursions
Discover the World Beyond the Riverbanks
With AmaWaterways, your journey extends far beyond the ship — it flows into the heart of every destination you visit. From medieval castles and family-owned vineyards to cobblestone villages and lively Christmas Markets, each excursion has been carefully crafted to help you experience the world in a way that feels authentic, effortless, and unforgettable.
Best of all, the overwhelming majority of AmaWaterways’ excursions are included, with no hidden costs or nickel-and-diming. Unlike other river cruise lines that charge extra for nearly every experience, AmaWaterways invites you to explore freely — your way, every day.
Featured Experiences: Biking & Hiking Adventures
Biking Along the Danube
There’s a special kind of freedom that comes with pedaling beside the world’s great rivers. With AmaWaterways, you’ll find complimentary bicycles aboard nearly every ship in Europe, ready for both guided rides and independent exploration.
Cycle past vineyard-lined hillsides, through charming riverfront villages, or along the famous Danube Bike Path, one of Europe’s most scenic cycling routes. Led by expert local guides, these rides blend gentle exercise with authentic cultural immersion — and always end with a story worth telling. Whether you join a morning ride through the Wachau Valley or take an afternoon spin through Strasbourg, you’ll experience the rhythm of Europe at your own pace, one turn of the wheel at a time.
Hiking Through the Wachau Valley
For those who prefer the steady climb of adventure, AmaWaterways’ guided hikes invite you to trade the deck for dramatic vistas. Journey up to the ancient fortress of Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, or follow winding trails through vineyards and terraced hillsides that have produced wine for centuries.
Each step reveals a new perspective — not just of the breathtaking landscapes, but of the people and cultures that shaped them. From castle ruins and mountain monasteries to the forested trails of the Rhine Gorge, these hikes reward travelers with more than a view — they offer a moment of awe that lingers long after you’ve returned to the ship.
More Included, More Freedom, More Discovery
Every AmaWaterways sailing includes a rich variety of complimentary shore excursions in every port of call — often multiple options each day, so you can tailor your experience to your interests and pace.
- Guided Walking Tours through historic cities, storybook villages, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Full- and half-day adventures to destinations like Salzburg, Austria or Heidelberg, Germany, where culture, cuisine, and history intertwine.
- Wine tastings at local vineyards, complete with regional pairings and heartfelt stories from the winemakers themselves.
- Active excursions such as biking along the Danube, hiking to castle ruins, or exploring the countryside on guided outdoor adventures.
- Immersive cultural experiences, from market visits and local cooking classes to music performances and artisan workshops.
And because so many excursions are included, you can take multiple tours in a single day — perhaps a morning bike ride along the river, followed by an afternoon walking tour or wine tasting. It’s all part of AmaWaterways’ promise: freedom, flexibility, and a journey designed around you.
Designed for Every Traveler — At Every Pace
Not everyone travels at the same speed, and AmaWaterways understands that. Each walking tour typically offers three activity levels, so every guest can experience the destination comfortably and confidently:
- Gentle Walkers: For guests who prefer a slower pace or need extra time to explore.
- Regular Walkers: Perfect for those who enjoy a moderate walking pace with plenty of time to take in the sights.
- Active Walkers: For travelers who like to keep moving — often covering more ground or tackling steeper terrain.
This thoughtful approach ensures that everyone — from the most relaxed explorer to the most adventurous traveler — enjoys each destination in their own way.
Seasonal Magic: Christmas Markets & Holiday Adventures
Few experiences capture the wonder of Europe like an AmaWaterways Christmas Market Cruise.
Stroll through centuries-old squares filled with twinkling lights, sip glühwein (mulled wine) as carolers sing, and shop for handcrafted treasures that make perfect keepsakes.
During these festive journeys, you’ll enjoy included excursions to legendary markets in:
- Vienna, Austria – the grand, glittering heart of European Christmas.
- Nuremberg, Germany – one of the oldest and most famous Christmas Markets in the world.
- Regensburg, Passau, and Strasbourg – where old-world charm meets holiday wonder.
Each market feels like stepping inside a snow globe — a timeless celebration of joy, culture, and connection.
Active Adventures & Hidden Gems
For travelers seeking a bit more adventure, AmaWaterways offers an exceptional variety of active excursions — all included, and all guided by local experts who know the best trails, paths, and views.
- Bike tours along scenic riverbanks or through vineyards.
- Hikes to ancient fortresses or panoramic lookouts, where your reward is the breathtaking view.
- Kayaking, golf, or wellness-themed excursions on select sailings, perfect for travelers who love to stay active while exploring.
Each adventure is designed to immerse you deeper into the rhythm of the destination, not just show it to you.
Optional Enrichment Excursions
While most excursions are included, some exclusive experiences are available for an additional fee, offering even more ways to personalize your journey.
Examples include:
- An evening Mozart and Strauss concert in Vienna – a timeless classical performance in an elegant concert hall (approximately $99 per person).*
- Private guided tours, museum visits, or wine estate experiences in select destinations.
- Special interest activities, such as golf programs or premium tastings, available on certain itineraries.
These optional experiences are never required — simply another opportunity to enrich your time on the rivers of the world.
*Note: Pricing is subject to change
Enriching Every Moment, Effortlessly
From the cobblestone streets of Bruges to the vineyards of the Wachau Valley, AmaWaterways excursions blend authentic discovery with complete ease. Every detail — transportation, timing, local guides, and even tips — is handled for you.
That means you can relax, explore, and connect without worrying about logistics. Just step off the ship, follow your guide, and let the story of each destination unfold.
At Sea & Sun Travel, we’ll help you choose the perfect AmaWaterways itinerary — one that reflects your travel style, interests, and pace. Because when you travel with us, exploration isn’t just effortless — it’s elevated.