Discover the Joys Along the Rivers in February and March: Explore with AmaWaterways

If you have explored Europe in the peak seasons and you are looking for a slower paced experience on your next vacation, an AmaWaterways river cruise in February and March may be just what you are seeking. Cruising in February and March means trading the typical tourist bustle for crisp mornings and long, peaceful stretches where you can truly savor the scenery. With each bend of the river, the landscapes reveal their subtle transformation—blooming Dutch bulb fields, serene woodlands and the first signs of green along the Danube’s edge.

The AmaWaterways Experience

On an AmaWaterways river cruise, the journey doesn’t simply connect you between landmarks: it elevates every sense. Across each day, a world of flavors arrives at your table, with farm-to-ship cuisine that honors the seasons and local traditions at every meal. The culinary experience is never an afterthought—it is a window onto the places you visit, whether you’re indulging in Belgian sweets or savoring the rich flavors of Germany.

AmaWaterways includes up to six daily excursions in your fare. The array of options allows you to choose your preferred method of exploration: uncover secrets with a knowledgeable local guide, hike up vineyard slopes or pedal through vibrant cities. Each day offers you a variety of options that invite you to explore at your own pace.

Additionally, if you are committed to staying active throughout your vacation, a complimentary onboard Wellness Program is led by a dedicated Wellness Host. Stretch out with sunrise yoga on your ship’s Sun Deck or take part in resistance band workouts, all designed to enhance your journey both physically and mentally.

Trending Itineraries for Early 2026

As winter yields to spring, Europe’s rivers come alive in ways even seasoned travelers may not expect. Throughout February and March, crowds ebb, landscapes stir and festivals awaken. Among AmaWaterways’ 2026 offerings, these three itineraries invite you to experience the full wonder of this awakening season.

Tulip Time

Cruising the Netherlands and Belgium on this 7-night itinerary in mid-March offers the magic of early spring before the crowds descend. As your ship gently cruises from Amsterdam, you will experience fields awakening with the first bold tulip blooms, historic windmills standing watch over atmospheric canals and medieval towns stirring to life.

Excursions take you to iconic locations like Keukenhof Gardens, where millions of bulbs spring to life starting in mid-March. From Antwerp, you’ll be invited to explore the stunning Floralia flower exhibition, or you can join a guided tasting of Belgian chocolate, beer and waffles. These early-season departures also mean cooler temperatures, an intimate onboard atmosphere and exceptional value as lower airfares and uncrowded attractions await. If you are seeking out the joys of the early spring season, this journey promises vibrant colors and easy exploration.

Romantic Danube - Easter Delights

Set out along the Danube in the weeks leading up to Easter, and you will discover a river steeped in history and alive with celebration. The 7-night Romantic Danube – Easter Delights itinerary invites you to linger in storybook villages, explore grand capitals such as Vienna and Budapest, and experience unique spring festivals. In select cities, the region’s increasingly popular Easter Markets brim with hand-painted eggs, folk music and sweet pastries. Along the Danube, charming villages and grand capital cities burst from the mist into verdant bloom, blending old-world elegance with the energy of a region emerging from the winter season.

Captivating Rhine

This 7-night Rhine River journey invites you to stroll through historic cities like Speyer in Germany and Strasbourg in France. You will also witness fairy-tale castles and majestic river valleys in their winter splendor from your ship as you cruise from Amsterdam, Netherlands to Basel, Switzerland. In February 2026, there’s an extra reason to celebrate—a dedicated Celebration of Beer departure embarking February 19. Toast the season alongside fellow brewing enthusiasts in some of Europe’s most storied beer destinations. Sample local brews as you pass through Germany’s heartland, learn from expert brewmasters and immerse yourself in the convivial traditions of riverside taverns and grand beer halls.

Make It Happen: Anniversary Sale

Whether you’re most enticed by garden blooms, cultural festivals or the promise of the perfect pint along the Rhine, river cruising offers a way to witness the world’s transitions—season to season, village to city, tradition to innovation—from a uniquely intimate vantage point.

For a limited time, AmaWaterways is offering savings of up to $2,500 on select 2026 departures across Europe, Asia, Egypt and Colombia, including the featured Tulip Time, Romantic Danube – Easter Delights, and Captivating Rhine itineraries in February and March. 

This offer is valid through September 30, 2025.