Explore the best of the Balkans on a seven-night cruise along the Danube River. Discover the grand sights of Budapest, Belgrade and Bucharest, visit the fabled Bran Castle, explore charming riverside towns and villages, cruise through the spectacular Iron Gates and tour Transylvania.
Upon arrival at the airport, you'll be met and transferred to your hotel in Bucharest.
This morning, embark on a guided tour of the city, taking in the wide, tree-lined boulevards and Belle Époque buildings. Stroll through the Old Town to the Royal Court, Stavropoleos Church, and the historic Lipscani district. Later, continue your journey to Brașov.
This morning travel to Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’. With a local guide learn about its history and walk through its many rooms and admire the 19th-century antiques. Return to Braşov and join a guided tour through its medieval streets.
After breakfast, travel to your river ship. Stop on the way in the town of Sinaia for some free time.
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.
Disembark your ship this morning and be transferred to the airport.
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APT Luxury Travel offers all-inclusive, all taken care of and all-inspiring luxury cruises, tours and rail journeys. As Australia’s largest family-owned tour and cruise company, we are committed to delivering unforgettable travel experiences to our valued guests. What began as just a vision, over 90 years ago, has now grown into a proud global business, demonstrating the power of dreaming fully.