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Legends of the Balkans with Istanbul and Gallipoli

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Operated by Travel Marvel
Tripcode: EUTCRIB12
Overview
Destination:
Hungary
Turk
Start:Istanbul, Turkey
Finish:Budapest, Hungary
Duration:12 days
Type:Group tour (max 45)
Style:
Land Tour,
Travel Period
July 2025 - July 2026
Istanbul → Budapest

Discover the beauty of the Balkans along the Danube River, beginning with an enriching pre-cruise extension in Türkiye. Explore the cultural marvels of Istanbul, and visit the poignant sites of Gallipoli. Then, continue to Romania’s capital, Bucharest, before discovering Bulgaria’s stunning sights. Journey through small, traditional towns and the grand capital of Budapest, where history and beauty come alive.

Highlights
  • In Puszta, enjoy a traditional horse show featuring Magyar cowboys and fine equestrian skills. 

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Standard inclusions
  • Seven nights cruising on a Travelmarvel river ship
  • Four nights immersed in Turkiye
  • Services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director and local guides
  • 29 meals - 11 breakfasts, 9 lunches and 9 dinners
  • Onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drink, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise
  • Transfers, port charges and tipping
  • Explore 9 towns, villages and cities
  • Travel to the Gallipoli Peninsula for a guided exploration of its war memorials
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Itinerary
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Day 1 - Arrive Istanbul

On arrival, transfer to your hotel. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception.

Day 2 - Istanbul

Experience a half-day tour exploring the iconic Blue Mosque, the St. Sophia Museum, and the Grand Bazaar, a renowned historical site boasting a vast array of Turkish handicrafts and delicious cuisine. Afterward, enjoy an afternoon at leisure.

Day 3 - Istanbul, Canakkale

Travel to the Gallipoli Peninsula for a guided exploration of its war memorials. Arrive in Gelibolu for free time for lunch then continue to the national park area for a tour of the war memorials, including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair. Later, arrive in Canakkale.

Day 4 - Canakkale, Troy, Istanbul

This morning journey south along the Turkish coast today, stopping in the World Heritage-listed city of Troy. After a guided tour, return to Istanbul.

Day 5 - Istanbul, Bucharest, Giurgiu, Embark Ship

This morning after breakfast transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Bucharest. Upon touching down at the airport, be transferred to Giurgiu, where your premium river ship is docked, ready to begin its voyage.

Day 6 - Ruse, Veliko Târnovo, Arbanasi

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.

Day 7 - Vidin, Belogradchik

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.

Day 8 - Scenic Cruising

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

Day 9 - Novi Sad

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.

Day 10 - Kalocsa, Puszta

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. 

Day 11 - Budapest

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.

Day 12 - Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest

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

Departure dates

Select your preferred date or enquire

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Travellers

Operator
Travelmarvel

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.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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$5,553*
per person
11 nights
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