Follow Europe’s greatest rivers from Amsterdam to Budapest by rail.
Follow the course of two of Europe’s most legendary rivers on this captivating rail journey from Amsterdam to Budapest. Beginning in the canals of the Dutch capital, travel by rail through the historic cities and scenic landscapes that line the Rhine before continuing east towards the grandeur of the Danube.
Discover Cologne’s Gothic skyline, cruise through the romantic Rhine Valley from Koblenz and explore the rich heritage of Nuremberg on a guided tour. In Vienna, experience imperial elegance with a visit to Schönbrunn Palace and an unforgettable evening of classical music, before concluding in Budapest, where grand architecture and riverside beauty await.
From: UK Airport
Overview
Trace the path of Europe’s great rivers on this scenic rail journey linking Amsterdam, Cologne, Koblenz, Nuremberg, Vienna and Budapest. Inspired by the landscapes and cultures shaped by the Rhine and the Danube, this itinerary combines comfortable rail travel with immersive city experiences along the way.
Cruise the Rhine from Koblenz, explore historic Nuremberg with a guided tour, and experience the imperial elegance of Vienna before arriving in Budapest, where the Danube defines the city’s grandeur. From canal-lined streets to baroque capitals, each stop offers its own distinctive character.
Trip Highlights
- Follow the Rhine and Danube through some of Europe’s most historic and picturesque cities
- Enjoy a scenic Rhine sightseeing cruise from Koblenz
- Explore magnificent Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna
- Discover Nuremberg’s Old Town and complex history on a private guided tour
What's Included
Accommodation
- 2-nights hotel accommodation in Amsterdam, Koblenz, Nuremberg and Budapest with breakfast included
- 3-nights hotel accommodation in Vienna with breakfast included
- Overnight hotel accommodation in Cologne with breakfast included
Transport
- Flights from London to Amsterdam and return from Budapest
Excursions
- 24-hour, hop-on, hop-off bus tour and river cruise in Amsterdam
- Sightseeing cruise in Koblenz
- Nuremberg Oldtown and Third Reich Private Tour
- Schönbrunn Palace Tour, Dinner & Concert
Day’s Itinerary
Get PricesAmsterdam
Your journey begins as you travel by rail from London to Amsterdam. Sit back and relax as you cross into mainland Europe, arriving in the Dutch capital later today. After checking into your centrally located hotel, the rest of the day is free to begin soaking up Amsterdam’s charming canals and vibrant atmosphere. (Overnight in Amsterdam).
Amsterdam
Today, discover Amsterdam with your 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus and boat pass. Explore the city from both land and water, taking in highlights such as the historic canal belt, museum quarter and lively neighbourhoods. The flexibility of your pass allows you to tailor the day to your interests. (Overnight in Amsterdam).
Colgone
This morning, depart Amsterdam by rail and travel south to Cologne. On arrival, make your way to your hotel and settle in before exploring at leisure. You may wish to visit the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, stroll along the Rhine promenade or enjoy dinner in the atmospheric Old Town. (Overnight in Cologne).
Koblenz
After breakfast, continue your journey along the Rhine to Koblenz. This short rail journey brings you to one of the most scenic regions of Germany, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. Once checked in, enjoy time at leisure to explore Koblenz’s charming old streets or relax along the riverbanks. (Overnight in Koblenz).
Koblenz
Today, enjoy a two-hour sightseeing cruise around Koblenz, offering beautiful views of the surrounding Rhine Valley. Take in hilltop castles, vineyard-clad slopes and picturesque riverside scenery as you experience this romantic stretch of river from the water. (Overnight in Koblenz).
Nuremberg
Today’s rail journey takes you further east to Nuremberg. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Perhaps begin exploring the medieval Old Town or enjoy dinner in one of the city’s traditional restaurants. (Overnight in Nuremberg).
Nuremberg
Join a two-hour private tour of Nuremberg’s Old Town and significant historic sites. Your guide will bring the city’s past to life, from its medieval roots to its role in 20th-century history. The rest of the day is yours to continue exploring at your own pace. (Overnight in Nuremberg).
Vienna
After breakfast, board your rail service to Vienna. Relax as the journey carries you into Austria’s elegant capital. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, perhaps with an evening stroll through Vienna’s grand boulevards or historic centre. (Overnight in Vienna).
Vienna
Today, experience the grandeur of Vienna with a visit to the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, followed by a VIP classical concert. Enjoy priority access to the concert hall and bar, a refreshing welcome drink, front-row seating, free coat check, and an exclusive VIP program booklet. Toast the evening with a glass of sparkling wine as the music begins, soaking up the elegance and history of Vienna in style. (Overnight in Vienna).
Vienna
Today enjoy a full day at leisure in Vienna to explore the city at your own pace. Stroll through the historic streets, visit world-class museums, relax in elegant cafés, or take in the beauty of the Ringstrasse and its grand architecture. Whether you choose to immerse yourself in art, history, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, today is yours to enjoy. (Overnight in Vienna).
Budapest
Today, travel by rail from Vienna to Budapest, watching the scenery shift as you journey between two of Central Europe’s great capitals. On arrival, make your way to your hotel and settle in before beginning your exploration with your 48-hour hop-on hop-off sightseeing pass. Enjoy the flexibility to discover Budapest’s highlights at your own pace — from grand boulevards and historic squares to the striking Parliament building and riverside views along the Danube. (Overnight in Budapest).
Budapest
Continue your exploration of Budapest with the second day of your 48-hour hop-on hop-off pass, giving you the freedom to see anything you may have missed yesterday or revisit your favourite sights. Wander the historic streets of Buda, enjoy panoramic views from Castle Hill, or explore the elegant avenues of Pest. For a relaxing afternoon, consider a cruise along the Danube River, or immerse yourself in the city’s famous thermal baths. With flexibility to explore at your own pace, this day allows you to fully experience Budapest’s rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture before returning to your hotel for the final overnight stay. (Overnight in Budapest).
Return home
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer from your hotel to Budapest Airport for your return flight to the UK.
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Testimonials & Reviews
Got questions about your rail holiday?
What makes Marvellous Escapes’ rail holidays different?
All our trips are 100% tailor-made. We design your journey around your interests, pace, budget, and preferred travel style.
Can you customise my itinerary?
Absolutely. Nothing is off the shelf. Whether you want a scenic rail journey through the Alps, a cultural city break, or a multi-country adventure, we design your itinerary from scratch.
What happens if my train is delayed or cancelled?
If your train is delayed or cancelled, don’t worry, we’re here to help. You’ll have access to our 24-hour on-trip support, and our team will assist with rebooking your journey, adjusting connections, or arranging alternatives where needed. We’ll make sure you can continue your trip with as little disruption as possible.
Do I need to print my train tickets?
We’ll send you a full printed ticket pack 2–3 weeks before departure, which includes all your train tickets, itinerary and travel documents. You’ll also receive a digital copy of your tickets, so you can choose whichever format you prefer when travelling.
What financial protection do you provide?
We protect every booking with our ATOL licence, the UK Package Travel Regulations, and a secure trust account (Protected Trust Services), ensuring your money and your holiday are safe.
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