Avalon Waterways: Exploring the Danube from Budapest to Deggendorf

In June 2025, Travel Advisor Amy Kunkle from our AMAAB crew had the unforgettable opportunity to sail with Avalon Waterways on their Active & Discovery River Cruise along the Danube, traveling westbound from Budapest to Deggendorf.

This unique itinerary blended iconic European cities with immersive cultural experiences and active excursions, making every day feel like a new adventure. From exploring the historic streets of Budapest with a local to cycling through Vienna’s picturesque neighborhoods, the journey was as dynamic as it was scenic. She also extended her travels with extra days in Budapest and Prague, which added even more depth and discovery to this incredible European escape.

We've asked Amy all about her trip, and are sharing her answers below.

How would you describe the overall vibe on the ship?

The atmosphere on the ship was warm, friendly, and full of energy. It was clearly a multigenerational crowd—everything from teens traveling with parents to active retirees, and plenty of folks in between. We connected with fellow travelers ranging in age from their 30s to 70s, which made for a fun and diverse social experience. What really sets this itinerary apart is its appeal to a more active, adventurous crowd, making the average age noticeably younger than on traditional river cruises.

What was your stateroom like? Were there any standout features?

Our stateroom was incredibly comfortable and thoughtfully designed, with one standout feature being Avalon’s signature Open-Air Balcony concept. Instead of a traditional balcony that cuts into the room, the wall-to-wall panoramic window opens wide, offering you unobstructed views of the river while preserving the full interior space. This includes a table, chairs, and a wall-length desk and mirror – perfect for soaking up the scenery from every angle. The bed faces the window, allowing you to relax and watch the scenery drift by right from the comfort of your room. The overall layout was spacious and modern, with plenty of storage and upscale touches that made it feel like a boutique hotel on the water.

Did anything surprise you about the ship or onboard amenities?

I was pleasantly surprised by the food and drink options onboard. The meals were not only beautifully prepared but also thoughtfully varied—there was something for everyone, including those in our group with food allergies. One of my favorite parts of the day was high tea, where an array of delicious desserts and sandwiches were served alongside your choice of tea or coffee. While I expected complimentary local beer and wine with lunch and dinner, I was truly impressed by the generous happy hour selections that were also included. One thing’s certain: you’ll never go hungry on an Avalon River Cruise. The culinary experience is definitely a highlight!

What did a typical day on the cruise look like?

A day on Avalon’s Active & Discovery Danube itinerary offers an exciting blend of structure and freedom—no two days are the same, but each is packed with options to suit every traveler.

You’ll wake up in a new port and head out for one of several included shore excursions, thoughtfully categorized into three distinct experiences: Active, Discovery, and Classic—so whether you're craving movement, culture, or sightseeing, there's something for you.

• For Active travelers, options might include guided hikes (like up to Visegrád Castle), canoe trips on the Danube, or scenic bike rides through the Wachau Valley.

• If you're more into Discovery, you could enjoy insider tours—such as exploring Vienna’s café culture and art museums, meeting a count at Clam Castle, or visiting a Trappist abbey and sampling their unique beer.

• Prefer a more traditional experience? Classic sightseeing tours include guided city tours and visits to notable landmarks—always an option if that’s more your pace.

On top of that, the ship itself supports wellness with yoga/stretch classes, a small fitness room, and rental options like bikes or e-bikes for more excursions.

What surprised you most about sailing on the Danube with Avalon for the first time?

What surprised me most was how immersive and unhurried the experience felt. Unlike ocean cruises that often feel rushed or land travel that requires constant packing and moving, this river cruise struck the perfect balance between comfort and exploration.

One of the biggest highlights was how much time we had to truly explore each region. Instead of quick photo stops or tourist-heavy attractions, Avalon’s itinerary allowed us to dive deeper—with longer port stays, unique off-the-beaten-path excursions, and time to simply wander on our own. Whether it was enjoying a peaceful walk through a vineyard in the Wachau Valley or sitting down for a coffee in a quiet square in Bratislava, there was space to feel each place, not just see it.

Another unexpected difference was the small group feel. Tours never felt crowded, and the local guides were incredibly knowledgeable and personable—many were even from the area we were exploring. That made the whole experience more authentic and personal. It wasn’t just about checking landmarks off a list; it felt like we were being welcomed into the heart of each destination.

And finally, I hadn’t expected just how relaxing river cruising could be. No waves, no lines, no chaos, just smooth sailing through beautiful landscapes, with panoramic views and personalized service every step of the way.

What was it like exploring charming towns like Dürnstein or Passau straight from the ship?

One of the absolute joys of sailing with Avalon was how seamlessly we could step off the ship and straight into Europe’s most charming towns. In places like Dürnstein and Passau, we simply grabbed bikes and started exploring.

In Dürnstein, we rode along vineyard-lined paths with stunning Danube views and the iconic blue tower of the abbey in sight. We had time to wander the cobblestone streets, sample local apricot treats, and even hike to the castle ruins.

Passau offered a different but equally memorable ride through colorful neighborhoods and scenic riverbanks. The route was flat, easy, and perfect for a casual ride before returning to the ship.

This kind of effortless access made the experience feel immersive and unhurried. For a day, it felt like we were truly living in these towns, not just visiting, which is what makes river cruising so special.

Which port or destination was your favorite and why?

Budapest completely surprised me. It’s a city that can feel a bit overwhelming at first—with its grand architecture, rich history, and a language completely unlike my own—but Avalon made it so accessible and welcoming. I don’t think I would have felt comfortable navigating it independently, but the support from the Avalon team and their thoughtfully curated excursions made all the difference.

The small-group excursions gave us the chance to connect with locals, ask questions, and really dive into the culture in a way that felt personal and authentic. I loved the energy of the city—the hustle and bustle, the pride of the people, and the fascinating mix of old and new.

Whether we were walking through the historic Castle District, enjoying a traditional Hungarian meal, or simply soaking in the views of the Parliament building lit up at night, every moment felt special. Avalon made it easy to immerse myself in the city, even in a short time, and that’s something I’ll always appreciate.

Were there any excursions that really stood out to you?

It’s honestly hard to choose—Avalon’s mix of Active, Discovery, and Classic excursions meant that every day brought something new and meaningful.

One of the most memorable Discovery excursions for me was visiting Grein Castle, where we had the incredible opportunity to meet a real-life count and tour his family’s home, which has been passed down for over 500 years. It felt like stepping into a living piece of history, and getting that kind of personal perspective added so much depth to the experience.

In contrast, the Classic excursion to Mauthausen Concentration Camp was deeply moving, powerful, sobering, and something I will never forget. Avalon approached it with the utmost care and respect, and it offered time to reflect on a very important chapter of history.

But as I’ve had time to look back and reflect, one of the Active excursions that stands out most in my mind was the Guided Bike Tour through the Wachau Valley, from Krems to Spitz. The scenery was absolutely stunning—vineyards, quaint villages, and the serene Danube always just to our side. We stopped in Dürnstein to admire the mesmerizing blue tower of the Stiftskirche and sample local specialties like apricot liqueur and jams. It was one of those “I can’t believe this is real” kind of days—easily one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.

What made it all so special was the ability to tailor each day to how I was feeling—active and adventurous, curious and cultural, or reflective and relaxed. Avalon really makes it easy to craft your own perfect journey.

Can you describe one unforgettable moment you and your travel group shared onboard or on shore?

One of my favorite—and most unforgettable—moments wasn’t during a tour or excursion, but rather a quiet afternoon spent on the deck of the ship, simply watching the world go by. We had no agenda, no rush… just a few hours of good conversation with friends, a gentle breeze, and the incredible scenery of Europe drifting past us—castles on hilltops, quaint villages, vineyards, and church steeples in the distance.

We ended up meeting a few other travelers that afternoon, and before we knew it, we were laughing, sharing stories, and soaking in the moment together. It was such a relaxed, genuine experience—one of those memories that stays with you not because it was planned, but because it was perfect in its simplicity.

That’s the magic of river cruising with Avalon: even the quiet moments turn into something unforgettable.

How was the food—any standout meals or dining experiences?

The food onboard was truly a highlight of the cruise! I was especially impressed by how Avalon struck the perfect balance between regional cuisine and comforting favorites. One night, I had a steak that was honestly just as good as anything you’d get at a high-end steakhouse—perfectly cooked and full of flavor. It definitely hit the spot!

What I really appreciated, though, was how Avalon thoughtfully introduced us to the local flavors of the regions we were sailing through. From Austrian schnitzel to Hungarian goulash, each meal felt like part of the cultural experience. These dishes were prepared with care and authenticity, and the staff was always happy to recommend their favorites, explain allergens, or suggest the perfect local wine to pair with your meal.

At the same time, Avalon made dining incredibly flexible and personalized by offering multiple menu options each day, allowing guests to review and choose dishes that suited their tastes and dietary needs. If you were ever in the mood for something familiar—like a burger, pasta, or that amazing steak—those options were always available too. It made dining relaxed, flexible, and enjoyable for everyone, no matter how adventurous your palate.

And let’s not forget the desserts, including gelato—available at every meal! Whether it was a refreshing treat after lunch or a sweet ending to dinner, it was the perfect little indulgence that always hit the spot.

Whether it was a multi-course dinner, a casual lunch on the sky deck, or high tea in the Panorama Lounge, every meal felt special—a chance to slow down, enjoy the moment, and truly taste the journey.

How did cruising with another couple affect your experience – any tips for clients considering a group trip?

Honestly, river cruising with another couple was my favorite way to travel with friends! What I loved most was the perfect balance between togetherness and independence. Everyone could choose the excursions or activities that suited their interests—whether it was biking, sightseeing, or relaxing on board—and then we’d all meet back on the ship to share stories and unwind together.

Our friends even mentioned they’d love to bring their whole family on a future trip, so their adult children and spouses could each pick what they wanted to explore, while still having that shared group experience. It’s such a great way to keep everyone happy—letting each person customize their adventure while still enjoying quality time as a group.

My biggest tip for anyone considering a group trip is to embrace that flexibility. Don’t feel like you have to do everything together. Plan a few moments to reconnect during meals or evening activities, but give everyone the space to follow their own interests during the day. It makes the trip more enjoyable for all and creates a perfect mix of individual discovery and group bonding.

If you’re looking to travel with friends or family but worry about different preferences, a river cruise like Avalon’s is an ideal way to please everyone.

Who would be perfect for this cruise? What would you tell someone who thinks river cruises are only for retirees or seasoned travelers?

Honestly, this cruise is perfect for everyone! It’s not just for retirees or seasoned travelers—Avalon’s river cruises are easily customizable to fit all interests, activity levels, and ages. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, a family, or a group of friends, there’s truly something for everyone on board and on shore.

From active bike rides and hikes to relaxed wine tastings, cultural excursions, and onboard wellness classes, you can tailor your day however you want. Plus, the smaller ship size and attentive service make it feel personal and welcoming, no matter your travel experience.

So if you think river cruises aren’t for you because you’re “too young” or “not adventurous enough,” think again! This is a fantastic way to explore Europe’s most beautiful regions with plenty of freedom and fun built in.

How would you compare this to an ocean cruise?

I definitely prefer river cruising over ocean cruising, mainly because of the small group feel. With fewer passengers on board, we really got to know and enjoy the company of our fellow travelers—it felt like being part of a close-knit community rather than just another face in a crowd.

In fact, a fun highlight after our cruise was when another couple we met onboard invited us to visit Club 33 at Disneyland, which we were able to enjoy as a family just weeks later—because they realized we were fellow Disney fans! It’s those kinds of genuine connections that stood out to me.

Beyond the social aspect, the immersion into the culture on a river cruise couldn’t be beat. We weren’t just shuttled from place to place; instead, we had the time and opportunity to really experience the region, its history, and its people. The small ports, local guides, and personalized excursions meant we felt like we were stepping into the heart of each destination, not just ticking off tourist spots.

All in all, river cruising felt more intimate, authentic, and enriching—a travel experience I’d happily recommend over the typical ocean cruise any day.

What would you tell someone who’s on the fence about booking a river cruise?

Just do it! Seriously, if you’re on the fence, I’d say go for it—you won’t regret it. One of our fellow travel companions was actually pretty nervous because she tends to get seasick and wasn’t sure if cruising would be for her. But by the end of the trip, she (and all of us) agreed: river cruising is a totally different experience.

The water is calm, the pace is relaxed, and the atmosphere is intimate and welcoming. It’s less like traditional cruising and more like staying at a floating boutique hotel that moves you effortlessly through some of the most beautiful and culturally rich regions in Europe.

We’re already talking about where we want to go next—once you try it, it’s easy to get hooked. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or brand new to this kind of trip, a river cruise is an incredible way to explore, connect, and unwind—all in one unforgettable journey.

Now that you’ve sailed the Danube, which river or Avalon itinerary is next on your list – and why?

After such an incredible experience on the Danube, it's hard not to start dreaming about the next adventure! Right now, I’m torn between two amazing Avalon itineraries—both offering something completely different, yet equally unforgettable.

The Lower Danube and Balkan Discovery itinerary is high on my list. The idea of sailing through lesser-explored gems like Croatia, Serbia, and Bulgaria, while still starting in the familiar beauty of Budapest, sounds like the perfect mix of comfort and new discovery. I love the thought of diving deeper into the culture, history, and cuisine of the Balkans—regions I’ve always wanted to explore but never quite knew how to approach on my own. This itinerary makes it easy and enriching.

That said, the Romantic Rhine with the Swiss Alps and Lake Como is equally tempting. Between fairytale castles, vineyard-lined valleys, and the breathtaking scenery of Switzerland and Northern Italy, it feels like stepping into a dream. The added stay in Lake Como? Absolute perfection. This route offers a blend of natural beauty, iconic European charm, and unforgettable destinations.

Whichever one comes first, I know one thing for sure—I’m already hooked on river cruising. There’s no better way to see so much of Europe, feel immersed in the culture, and still enjoy the comfort of a floating boutique hotel.

-Amy Kunkle

AMAAB Travel Advisor

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Do you think a river cruise is for you? Get connected with an AMAAB travel advisor here to learn more about the exciting itineraries that Avalon and other river cruise vendors have to offer.