Europe river cruises: Six of the best shore excursions

Budapest, Hungary

WHY WE LOVE IT

Budapest can sometimes feels like two separate cities, there is good reason for that. It wasn't until the late 19th century that the two cities on either side of the Danube united to become one,

and each settlement has retained its own feel. On the hilly west bank, the royal capital of Buda retains a sense of grandeur, while the equally lovely Pest on the eastern bank is characterised by long boulevards lined with elegant Belle Epoque buildings. This half of the city seems purpose-built for strolling, its elegant architecture full of eye-catching details. Look for glass domes, arched doorways and facades decorated with elaborate art deco designs. When your legs get weary, revive yourself in one of the city's many old-school cafes, or enjoy a soak in the thermal baths.

AND ANOTHER THING

The easy hike up Buda's Castle Hill is not to be missed. Not only is the area home to some of the city's most spectacular sights, including the Gothic St Mathias Church as well as the castle itself, but the views across the city are the best in town.

Cologne, Germany

WHY WE LOVE IT

Despite its 2000 years of history, Cologne is a city with a youthful feel. Its residents love to get active, jogging along the banks of the Rhine, or taking part in rowing regattas. The city is easy to

explore on bicycle or on foot. The best-known attraction is its mighty cathedral, topped with magnificent Gothic spires. Less well-known is the city's impressive collection of museums. Top of the must-visit list is the Museum Ludwig, home to masterpieces of modern art by the likes of Picasso, Magritte, Hockney and Warhol. Also worth a visit are the Roman-Germanic Museum, which displays artefacts from the city's Roman past, including the world's largest collection of Roman glassware, and the Wallraf-Richartz-Museum & Fondation Corboud, dedicated to European art from the Middle Ages to the early 20th century.

INSIDER TIP

Cologne is also a great city for cycling, and APT guests can take part in a guided bike tour of the old city. The tour takes in all the highlights, from Roman ruins to Cologne Cathedral, and culminates with a ride along the Rhine River.

Miltenberg, Germany

WHY WE LOVE IT

One of the most enjoyable things about travelling through Germany is discovering some of its many picturesque towns and villages. Miltenberg, on the river Main, is one of these underthe-radar gems. Thanks to its strategic position on the Nuremberg-Frankfurt trade route, this 1000-year-old town blossomed during the Middle Ages, and walking its beautifully-preserved streets is a great way to travel back in time. Expect plenty of historic half-timbered houses and the occasional grand landmark, such as Germany's oldest royal inn, the ornate Gasthaus zum Riesen. Registered back in the 15th century, this is one of the world's oldest operating hotels, having hosted everyone from Napoleon Bonaparte to Elvis Presley.

INSIDER TIP

Franconia is known for its distinctive wines, and the fields outside Miltenberg are covered with vines. APT guests can join in a vineyard hike, learning more about the area's wines while soaking up the lovely landscape.

Nuremberg, Germany

WHY WE LOVE IT

For people who associate Nuremberg with the darkest days of German history, the city itself comes as a surprise. Surrounded by medieval walls, this enchanting city retains the splendour of the days when it was the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Take a hike up to the forbidding Kaiserburg, or imperial castle, sitting high above the town, or simply wander Nuremberg's medieval streets, lined with splendidly-decorates buildings. If you walk up an appetite, there are plenty of local specialties to feast on, from the tasty Nürnberger Bratwürste, tiny sausages that are served three to a bun, to the local gingerbread, Nürnberger Lebkuchen.

INSIDER TIP

Lower Franconia is known for its scenic countryside, and the area around Nuremberg is no exception. APT offers its guests a hike through the nearby Schwarzach Valley, with its beautiful deciduous forests and striking sandstone formations.

Regensburg, Germany

WHY WE LOVE IT

Regensburg is a study in contrasts. This World-Heritage listed city has one of the highest collections of historic buildings in central Europe; it also has more bars per capita than any other German city. So while you may have to do a lot of walking to see all the sights, you can always find somewhere to quench your thirst. The question is where to start? Walk across the ancient Roman bridge into town and you will come to the heart of the town: the cathedral, the town hall, and the Krautermarkt square. Other highlights include the Adler-Apotheke, a pharmacy dating back to 1610, and the 50 metre high Golden Tower. Dating back to the 13th century, this is a rare relic of the residential towers that wealthy families built in the Middle Ages.

INSIDER TIP

This historic city is the perfect place to give some of Bavaria's most entertaining traditions a whirl. Why not take part in a fun Bavarian dance class, learning how to do the polka and the schuhplattel.

UNFORGETTABLE PEOPLE

EVELIN GOGER​, APT CRUISE DIRECTOR

APT cruise director Evelin Goger says one of the best things about her job is the opportunity to take guests on active adventures. One favourite is the 32km bike ride along the Danube from Dürnstein to Melk. "The bike paths along the Danube take you through beautiful landscapes, complete with charming little villages, vineyards and orchards." Goger travels to many of Europe's most unforgettable destinations and is particularly fond of Vienna and Paris. "They have beautiful architecture, as well as wonderful culinary delights," she says.

This article is produced in association with APT. With over 200 different Freedom of Choice inclusions to choose from, make Europe truly yours with APT. Whether it's cultural, gourmet, active or relaxing, select your experience and leave the rest to us. Experience the luxurious class of touring we've perfected over 90 years. Make your next European journey unforgettable. For more information visit www.aptouring.com.au/traveller, call 1300 290 669 or contact your local travel agent."