AmaWaterways has introduced a new City Escapes program, offering extended time in Europe’s cities along the Seine, Rhine and Danube rivers in 2026 and expanding further in 2027.

According to a press release, these departures are intentionally scheduled during quieter travel periods to allow guests to experience each destination with fewer crowds and more time to explore.

Traditional river cruises are reimagined with the addition of more overnight stays, daylight sailing and 24 hours or more in cities including Paris, Amsterdam, Vienna, Strasbourg and Budapest.

“City Escapes is about experiencing Europe at its most authentic,” said Catherine Powell, CEO of AmaWaterways. “We designed these journeys for travelers who want more time to explore the museums, enjoy local cuisine and walk historic streets without feeling rushed or crowded. Luxury is the gift of time. That is exactly what we aim to offer with this new program.”

Seine

In Paris, travelers can explore the historic Île de la Cité, home to Notre-Dame Cathedral, stroll through the historic streets of Le Marais, or join a guided bike tour along the Left Bank.

Options also include visits to the Louis Vuitton Foundation or the Marmottan Monet Museum, as well as onboard culinary demonstrations focused on classic French desserts.

In Normandy, there’s the historic D-Day landing beaches, exploring the harbor town of Honfleur with a tasting of local cider and Pommeau, and Le Havre’s post-World War II architecture.

In Rouen, experiences range from guided walking tours of the medieval city and culinary tastings to château visits or the Rouen Museum of Fine Arts.

Rhine

In Colmar, highlights include a walking tour with a visit to the Bartholdi Museum, excursions through the Alsatian wine region and visits to the hilltop Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg.

In Strasbourg, guests can explore the historic center on a guided tour or bike ride, while in Germany, there is Heidelberg’s old town and local culinary tastings and architectural tours of Cologne.

The itinerary also includes scenic cruising through the Rhine Gorge, before concluding in Amsterdam with options such as a visit to the Rijksmuseum.

Danube

On the Danube, extended scenic sailing through stretches such as the Wachau Valley and the Danube Bend is paired with cultural programming in cities.

Highlights include guided explorations of Budapest’s historic Buda district and hikes to Gellért Hill, walking tours of Bratislava’s old town with local beer tastings and cultural evenings in Vienna featuring dinner and a concert at the House of Strauss.

In Linz, guests can explore the UNESCO City of Media Arts, have a day trip to Salzburg, or visit the fairytale town of Český Krumlov.

The journey concludes in Passau with a walking tour of the “City of Three Rivers,” local food tastings and visits to traditional pretzel bakeries.

Additionally, AmaWaterways is offering new pre- and post-cruise extensions in London and Rome, including visits to Vatican City and other landmarks.

In London, the program includes a guided tour of Westminster and an evening in the West End.

The company is celebrating the launch with a limited-time City Escapes promotion on select departures for bookings made between March 6 and June 30, 2026.

The offer includes up to $1,000 in cruise savings per stateroom, a complimentary stateroom upgrade and $50 in onboard credit per guest.