River cruising has long been a beloved travel style for its relaxed pace and cultural immersion, but it hasn’t always been top of mind for families with younger children. After experiencing AmaWaterways’ Romantic Danube: A Taste of Christmas Markets aboard the elegant AmaLea-with my husband, children and in-laws—it became clear that this is an exceptional choice for multigenerational travel.
This festive itinerary, which takes guests from Germany to Hungary (or vice-versa), offers something for everyone-history and culture for grandparents, active excursions for parents and kids, and magical Christmas markets that delight all ages. For those looking to recommend a unique and memorable holiday experience, this journey checks all the boxes.
A Warm Holiday Welcome
From the moment we stepped onto the AmaLea in Vilshofen, Germany, we felt at home. The crew’s warm hospitality extended to all three generations of our family, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. The ship’s elegant yet inviting ambiance set the stage for a magical week, with twinkling lights, garlands and Christmas trees creating a cozy holiday atmosphere.
On the AmaLea, the staterooms are a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication, designed to enhance the river cruising experience. Each room features plush bedding, modern decor and a spacious bathroom with a glass-enclosed shower and premium bath products. A standout feature is AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony design, which includes both a French balcony and a full outside balcony, allowing guests to soak in panoramic river views from the comfort of their room. Families will appreciate the availability of connecting cabins and triple-occupancy options, making it easy to stay close while still enjoying privacy. Thoughtful touches, such as a well-lit vanity, ample closet space, a small refrigerator and a flat-screen entertainment system, ensure a relaxing and luxurious retreat after a day of exploring.
A Festive and Well-Curated Itinerary
Our journey began in true Bavarian fashion with an Oktoberfest celebration in Vilshofen before we even set sail. AmaWaterways welcomed guests with an exclusive, private event featuring traditional music, dancing and, of course, steins of locally brewed beer. It was a lively and joyous way to kick off the cruise, setting the tone for the festive week ahead.
The Romantic Danube: A Taste of Christmas Markets itinerary is a 7-night sailing from Vilshoten, Germany, to Budapest, Hungary, with stops in Passau, Linz, Vienna and Bratislava. Each port offered something unique for our multi-generational group, from cultural tours and interactive holiday experiences to leisurely strolls through historic towns.
One of the standout aspects of AmaWaterways is their ability to cater to all generations. Gentle walking tours were available at every destination, allowing my in-laws to soak in the history and festive ambiance without feeling rushed, while the children remained engaged through interactive elements like holiday craft workshops and musical performances. For more active travelers, complimentary bikes provided the opportunity for guided or independent exploration. While our family opted to stick together on foot, these options would appeal to those with older children or more adventurous members.
The Christmas markets were the heart of this journey, each with its own charm. In Passau, we wandered through cobblestone streets lined with stalls selling hand-carved ornaments and aromatic mulled wine, perfectly paced thanks to AmaWaterways’ relaxed touring options. In Linz, we opted for an excursion to Salzburg and Mondsee. In Salzburg, we explored the city’s famous filming locations from “The Sound of Music” then visited the picturesque lakeside town of Mondsee, home to a stunning basilica. Meanwhile, back in Linz, the market’s festive carousel delighted the children, and the walking tour’s manageable route ensured my in-laws could comfortably join in.
Vienna was a highlight for all generations. The grand market at Rathausplatz dazzled with glittering lights, a skating rink and rows of artisan stalls. The guided tour took us through the city’s historic streets at a comfortable pace, blending cultural insights with plenty of time to indulge in Austrian strudels and soak in the market’s holiday magic. By the time we reached Budapest, the illuminated streets and lively Vorosmarty Square market provided a perfect finale. Walking through the heart of the city, we enjoyed Hungarian chimney cakes, sipped hot cocoa and reflected on the incredible shared experiences we had throughout the week.
Evening entertainment on board offered something for everyone, from trivia nights that brought our family together to performances by local musicians that enchanted us with their classical charm. Every moment felt thoughtfully curated to enhance the festive spirit while ensuring all generations could participate in the magic.
Culinary Delights
AmaWaterways’ culinary program is exceptional, offering regionally inspired dishes alongside familiar favorites. My children appreciated the kid-friendly meal options and interactive cooking demonstrations, while we savored specialties such as Bavarian sausages, Austrian schnitzel and Hungarian goulash.
A highlight was The Chef’s Table, an intimate specialty dining experience featuring a multi-course meal with exquisite wine pairings. This was a wonderful opportunity for our family to enjoy a more elevated dining experience in celebration of our time together.
Why This Cruise is Ideal for Multigenerational Travel
For those seeking a holiday recommendation that balances luxury, culture and inclusivity, AmaWaterways’ is a perfect fit. The small-ship experience (averaging just 156 guests) offers the luxury of space while maintaining an intimate and welcoming atmosphere.
Stateroom configurations can accommodate a variety of needs, making it easy for families to stay together without sacrificing comfort. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to cater to different interests and physical abilities, ensuring that every member of the family— from young children to grandparents-feels included.
