Best of the Balkans

Welcome to Budapest, Hungary’s capital. Arrive at the airport and be transferred to your river ship, docked on the Danube River.

After breakfast, join a local guide to explore the city. Tonight, delight in a Gala Welcome Dinner on board before your ship sets sail. Marvel at the sight of Budapest as its famous monuments are illuminated, creating a mesmerising spectacle around you.

From the sleepy port town of Mohács, history buffs will delight in the chance to travel to the ancient city of Pécs. As Hungary’s fifth-largest city, this World Heritage site offers plenty in the way of sightseeing. Be sure to check out the copper domes of the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, as well as the 11th-century  Pécs  Cathedral.  With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to join an optional tour to Hungary’s renowned wine region in Villány for a wine tasting. 

Enhance your Journey – Villány Wine Tasting

Travel to Hungary’s renowned wine region in Villány, known for its red and rosé varieties. Pay a visit to a local winery for a tour and tasting.   

Begin a captivating exploration of Osijek, a vibrant city with a rich history. Wander through its picturesque cobblestone streets, where the well-preserved 18th-century architecture offers a glimpse into the past. Discover key landmarks such as the iconic Holy Trinity Square and the stunning St. Michael's Church. Later, continue to Vukovar, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of regional delicacies. Reboard your ship for a leisurely afternoon cruise towards Serbia.

In Serbia’s capital, embark on a guided tour of Belgrade. Visit the historic Belgrade Fortress, which offers stunning views over the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Immerse yourself in a traditional Serbian way of life during your Insider Experience, gaining insight into the local culture and customs.

Insider Experience – Village Farm and Slivovitz Tour

Visit a local family’s village, taking a tour of their home and barn to meet the resident farm animals. Stroll through the family’s fruit orchards to learn about the brewing process of ‘slivovitz’. This plum brandy is the national drink of choice.  

Get ready to witness nature at its finest today as your ship cruises through the Iron Gates, a stunning natural wonder of lush forests, towering cliffs and rugged landscapes. This spectacular series of gorges connects Serbia and Romania and makes for an unparalleled cruising experience.

Go ashore in Ruse, one of Bulgaria’s most elegant cities. Embark on a walking tour to admire the city’s Belle Époque architecture and beautifully manicured garden squares, which evoke the charm of Vienna. Along the way, you’ll pass Liberty Square, the courthouse, the Ruse Opera House, and Alexander Battenberg Square. The afternoon is free for you to explore at your leisure. You may choose to visit the Regional Museum of History, the National Transport Museum, or the ancient ruins of Sexaginta Prista Fortress.

Spend the entire day in Bucharest, Romania’s vibrant capital. Begin with a guided tour through the city’s broad, tree-lined boulevards and grand Belle Époque buildings, which lend the city its unique charm. Continue with a stroll through the Old Town, where you’ll visit the historic Royal Court, the exquisite Stavropoleos Church, and the lively Lipscani district. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, or perhaps you’d like to explore the open-air Village Museum, where you can immerse yourself in traditional Romanian life and discover the country’s rich cultural heritage.

Today, uncover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Târnovo, once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and a city steeped in medieval history. Join a local expert for a guided tour, exploring its fascinating past. At the heart of the city, visit the restored Tsarevets Fortress, the citadel of the Empire. Afterward, head to the hilltop village of Arbanasi, known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your ship.

Explore the Baba Vida Fortress, a medieval castle dating back to the 10th century. Marvel at its formidable walls and towers, immersing yourself in its rich history. Afterward, journey to Belogradchik, where you'll visit the ancient Belogradchik Fortress, perched on the northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains. While in the area, take time to admire the town's stunning natural rock formations, which have earned Belogradchik a reputation for its unique and striking landscape.

The day is yours to spend on board. Take it easy and relax, taking in postcard-perfect views from the Sun Deck.

Step out and explore Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, often regarded as the cultural capital of the country. Enjoy a guided tour through its charming streets and vibrant cultural hubs. After your tour, you’ll have free time to relax and soak in the atmosphere. For those interested in further exploration, consider visiting the Petrovaradin Fortress, an imposing fortress complex that overlooks the Danube River. While here, don’t miss the chance to explore its intriguing catacombs, which offer a glimpse into the fortress's storied past.

Dock in Kalocsa, a charming Hungarian town rich in history, located just a short distance from the mighty Danube. From here, head to  Puszta for your Insider Experience.

Insider Experience – Traditional Horse Show

In  Puszta, enjoy a traditional horse show featuring Magyar cowboys and fine equestrian skills. You may choose to take an optional carriage ride, view the stables, and be greeted by horsemen. 

Enjoy the day at leisure to explore Budapest. You may wish to join an optional tour to discover Budapest Great Market Hall, a must-visit attraction. Housed in a beautiful historic building dating back to the 19th century, the market is a paradise for food lovers and shoppers, where you can immerse yourself in Hungarian cuisine and local culture. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional tour to visit the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum, a hospital created in the caverns beneath Buda Castle in the 1940s during World War II, later serving as a nuclear bunker during the Cold War. This evening, delight in a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Enhance your Journey – Great Market Hall Tour

Embark on a culinary tour. Wander through this large market to discover a variety of Hungarian sausages, meat, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Enhance your Journey – Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum

Tour this museum, once a World War II hospital, located in the caves beneath Buda Castle.

Disembark your ship this morning and be transferred to the airport.