Spend fourteen nights cruising on a Travelmarvel river ship from Buccharest to Passau. Enjoy a cultural feast for the senses with Bavarian festivities and a traditional Hungarian horse show with Magyar cowboys in Puszta.
Welcome to Romania’s hip capital, Bucharest. Upon touching down at the airport, be transferred to Giurgiu, where your premium river ship is docked, ready to begin its voyage. Settle in and enjoy dinner on board as the ship repositions, ready for the journey ahead.
Today, uncover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Târnovo, a city steeped in medieval history. Join a local expert for a guided tour through this historic town, where you’ll explore its fascinating past. At the heart of the city, visit the restored Tsarevets Fortress, once the citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Afterward, head to the hilltop village of Arbanasi, known for its rich history and well-preserved heritage. 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.
Get out and explore Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city and known as its cultural capital, on a guided tour. Afterwards, spend your free time relaxing, or perhaps visit Petrovaradin Fortress, a massive fortress complex overlooking the Danube River, and check out its catacombs.
Dock in Hungary’s oldest town, Kalocsa, set right on the 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 historical 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 discover the Hospital in the Rock Bunker Museum, a hospital created in the caverns under Buda Castle in Budapest in the 1930s, in preparation for the Second World 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
Tour this museum, once a World War II hospital, located in the caves beneath Buda Castle.
We have set aside a full day for you to explore more of this fascinating city at your leisure.
Disembark and learn the vibrant history of Budapest as your local guide takes you to a host of impressive sights. Back on board this evening, enjoy a delightful Gala Welcome Dinner while you cruise.
Today, explore Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, on a guided walking tour through the charming Old Town. Stroll through its picturesque streets and visit notable landmarks, including St. Martin’s Cathedral, the elegant Primatial Palace, and the lively Main Square. You’ll also see Michael’s Gate, the only surviving original entrance of the four that once guarded the city.
Embrace the elegance of Vienna as you drive around the Ringstrasse, taking in some of the city’s most famous buildings. On arrival in the centre, a walking tour will provide an insider’s view of sights such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Graben and Hofburg Palace. Afterwards, perhaps visit the Naschmarkt and browse the stalls. This evening, enjoy an optional concert.
Enhance Your Journey – Mozart and Strauss Concert
Enjoy a Mozart and Strauss Concert in one of Vienna’s palaces or concert venues, followed by an evening drive around the Ringtrasse.
Cruise to Dürnstein, a town overlooked by the hilltop ruins of the castle where legendary King Richard the Lionheart was kept as a prisoner in the 12th century. You have the morning free to explore the cobbled streets, town houses and taverns of the town. Perhaps join an optional tour to taste some of the region’s wine. Later, cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley. Dock in Melk and tour through Melk Abbey, an active Benedictine monastery since 1089.
Enhance Your Journey – Wine Tasting
Visit Dürnstein Abbey, where you’ll savour a glass of the local Grüner Veltliner or Riesling produced in the region, as well as delicious brandy.
Today, you can choose to join an optional tour to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic or visit Salzburg. Alternatively, enjoy time at leisure in Linz.
Enhance your Journey - Český Krumlov
Enjoy a fascinating day excursion to the city of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, home to more than 300 historical buildings.
Enhance your Journey – Salzburg Sights
Take a trip through the stunning scenery of Austria. Visit Mondsee, where you may recognise the famous Wedding Church from ‘The Sound of Music’. Continue to Salzburg and be guided through the town Mozart called home. Enjoy some free time to explore explore at your leisure before returning to your ship.
In the beautiful city of Passau, enjoy a guided walking tour, taking in the historic sites as you roam the cobblestone lanes of the Altstadt.
Insider Experience - Bavarian Experience
Tonight, enjoy a traditional Bavarian experience on board. Sample delicious local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.
After breakfast, disembark your river ship and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
Select your preferred date or enquire
Travelmarvel delivers premium journeys at exceptional value. We are part of Australia’s largest locally-owned travel company, with a commitment to service and innovation, and a focus on the safety and wellbeing of our guests.