Day 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands – Canal Romance

You land in Amsterdam, and it’s like falling into a painting. Check into a charming hotel by a canal—think narrow houses and cozy Dutch vibes. First up, a guided boat tour through the UNESCO canals, gliding past flower-decked bridges and houseboats. Lunch is poffertjes (mini pancakes) and coffee at a canal-side café. Afternoon’s for the Van Gogh Museum’s swirling colors and a stroll through Vondelpark. Evening’s free—sip genever at a brown café or bike along the Amstel at dusk. Amsterdam’s got this romantic, easygoing soul that’s pure magic.

Day 2: Amsterdam to Cologne – Gothic Grandeur

Morning train to Cologne (3 hours, quick and scenic). You’re in Germany’s Rhine-side gem by noon, checked into a sleek hotel near the cathedral. Lunch is rheinischer sauerbraten (sweet-sour beef) at a traditional brauhaus with Kölsch beer. Afternoon’s a guided tour of the Cologne Cathedral—those twin spires are unreal—and a wander along the Rhine promenade. Evening’s a group dinner with hearty pork knuckle and more beer. Cologne’s got this gothic heart with a warm, riverside glow.

Day 3: Cologne to Frankfurt – Modern Buzz

Short train to Frankfurt (1 hour, super fast). You’re in Germany’s financial hub by noon, staying at a modern hotel near the Main River. Lunch is frankfurter schnitzel (yep, it’s a thing) at a local apfelwein tavern. Afternoon’s a guided tour of Römer’s historic square and the sleek skyline—hello, “Mainhattan.” Pop into the Städel Museum for some art. Evening’s free to sip apple wine by the river or hit a rooftop bar. Frankfurt’s got this shiny, urban vibe with a romantic river twist.

Day 4: Frankfurt to Prague – Vltava Vibes

Train to Prague (6 hours with a change, but the Bohemian hills are gorgeous). You’re in the Czech capital by afternoon, checked into a cozy hotel near the Vltava. Lunch is knedlíky (dumplings) with goulash at a riverside tavern. Afternoon’s a guided tour of Charles Bridge—perfect for hand-holding—and Prague Castle’s fairy-tale spires. Evening’s a group dinner with roasted duck and Pilsner. Prague’s Vltava sparkles at night, and it’s stupidly romantic.

Day 5: Prague to Vienna – Danube Elegance

Morning train to Vienna (4 hours, smooth and pretty). You’re in Austria’s capital by noon, staying at a classy hotel near the Danube Canal. Lunch is tafelspitz (boiled beef, fancier than it sounds) at a traditional gasthaus. Afternoon’s a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace’s lush gardens and the Belvedere’s Klimt paintings—The Kiss is pure romance. Grab a melange at a historic coffeehouse. Evening’s free to waltz at a Danube-side bar or stroll the Ringstrasse. Vienna’s elegant and made for lovers.

Day 6: Vienna to Budapest – Bridge Magic

Quick train to Budapest (2.5 hours, easy ride). You’re in Hungary’s capital by noon, checked into a trendy hotel with Danube views. Lunch is lángos (fried dough with sour cream—don’t knock it) at a market stall. Afternoon’s a guided walk across the Chain Bridge to Buda Castle and Fisherman’s Bastion’s panoramic beauty—perfect for sunset pics. Evening’s a group dinner at a ruin bar with gulyás and craft beer. Budapest’s bridges and skyline are straight-up swoon-worthy.

Day 7: Budapest to Bratislava – Riverside Charm

Short train to Bratislava (2 hours, chill and scenic). You’re in Slovakia’s capital by noon, staying at a funky hotel by the Danube. Lunch is bryndzové halušky (sheep cheese dumplings—so good) at a local spot. Afternoon’s a guided tour of Bratislava Castle and the Old Town’s colorful streets, plus that quirky UFO Bridge. Evening’s free to sip local wine at a riverside café or wander the Danube promenade. Bratislava’s small, cozy, and feels like a hidden love nest.

Day 8: Bratislava – Deep Dive into Cozy

Full day to soak up Bratislava’s charm. Morning’s for St. Martin’s Cathedral and a climb up the castle hill for Danube views. Lunch is kapustnica (cabbage soup with sausage) at a tavern—hearty and perfect. Afternoon’s free: maybe bike along the river or hit the Blue Church for its pastel weirdness. Our guide’s got tips for local craft beer spots. Evening’s a farewell dinner with Slovak roast goose and live folk music. Bratislava’s like a warm riverside hug.

Day 9: Bratislava & Departure

Last morning’s for savoring Bratislava. Grab coffee and a strudel at a riverside café or stroll the Old Town’s quiet lanes. Need souvenirs? Our guide points you to Slovak pottery or honey wine. After lunch (maybe more dumplings—you’re obsessed), we arrange transfers to Bratislava’s airport or train station. You’re heading home with a heart full of river romance and a camera bursting with dreamy shots