budapest to black sea river cruise

Budapest To The Black Sea River Cruise: Gems Of Eastern Europe

Budapest to the black sea river cruise.

Gems Of Eastern Europe

15 days from only $5,149pp

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Budapest To The Black Sea River Cruise Gems Of Eastern Europe

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Save up to $400pp off a voyage on our brand-new ship MS Riviera Radiance

The price you see is the price you pay.

• Fourteen nights on board in your choice of luxury cabin or suite, with river views 
• Sixteen visits and tours, including guided tours in Budapest, Belgrade, Bucharest, Novi Sad, Kalocsa, Osijek, Vukovar and Pleven; a scenic drive into the Puszta with an equestrian show; a cruise into the Danube Delta; guided visits to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, the churches of Ivanovo, the rock formations at Belogradchik, and the Mesolithic archaeological site of Lepenski Vir; and a visit to the ancient city of Constanta
• Spectacular cruising through the magnificent Iron Gates Gorge

On this incredible journey through the Balkans, we start by exploring the stunning sights of Kalocsa and Belgrade, with its magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress. Then it’s off to Pleven passing through the Iron Gates Gorge and the Djerdap locks before visiting Bucharest. Known as ‘little Paris’ this gem of a capital city will capture your heart with its romantic buildings and tree-lined boulevards.

Then we explore the very best of The Danube Delta and enjoy a cruise through Europe’s largest area of wetlands and marshlands – a UNESCO-listed site. From here we see Constanta where you can explore it’s charming Old Town and museums, Veliko Tarnovo and the village of Arbanassi.

After taking a scenic drive to the spectacular rock formations at Belogradchik we visit Lepenski Vir – one of the most important Mesolithic archaeological sites in Serbia before travelling to Novi Sad, Osijek and Vukovar. Finally, we discover the imperial city of two halves – Budapest.

Your Itinerary

• DAY 1 EMBARK IN BUDAPEST
• DAY 2 KALOCSA
• DAY 3 BELGRADE
• DAY 4 IRON GATES GORGE
• DAY 5 PLEVEN
• DAY 6 BUCHAREST
• DAY 7 DANUBE DELTA
• DAY 8 CONSTANTA
• DAY 9 VELIKO TARNOVO, ARBANASSI & IVANOVO
• DAY 10 BELOGRADCHIK
• DAY 11 IRON GATES & LEPENSKI VIR
• DAY 12 NOVI SAD
• DAY 13 OSIJEK & VUKOVAR
• DAY 14 BUDAPEST
• DAY 15 DISEMBARK IN BUDAPEST

EMBARK IN BUDAPEST

Arrive in Budapest, where your five-star floating hotel is moored. The friendly crew will welcome you on board and help you settle into your spacious, luxuriously appointed suite. The ship remains here overnight, so watch dusk descend over Hungary’s capital as you enjoy your first dinner on board.

One of the most thrilling aspects of a cruise is waking up somewhere new, and there’s a real sense of excitement as we explore lands unknown to many until the Iron Curtain lifted. Hungary itself has so much to offer; situated at a crossroads in central Europe, it’s a mesmerising blend of European and Ottoman influences, rich in culture and history. Our adventure begins this morning when we arrive in Kalocsa, a city whose 1,000-year-old lore swirls with tales of warlike bishops, saintly kings, rampaging Ottomans and Magyar heroes. Among its fine buildings you’ll discover an impressive Baroque cathedral and the grand Archbishop’s Palace, with its Ceremonial Hall displaying a replica of the Hungarian holy crown.

You can choose to enjoy a walking tour of the town seeing the sights plus the fascinating Paprika Museum; the region is one of the biggest producers of the seasoning that’s an essential part of Hungarian cuisine – goulash being a famous example. There are many types and strengths of ‘red gold’, but the best variety is said to come from here, due to its rich colour and robust flavour.

Alternatively we take the short drive to a paprika house on the outskirts of the town to learn more about its production before continuing on a scenic drive into the Puszta, Hungary’s Great Plain, a hauntingly atmospheric prairie whose spirit is burnt into the Magyar soul. Stretching as far as the eye can see, it is home to villages seemingly frozen in time, while Hungarian grey cattle, spiral-horned sheep and buffalo graze on its pastures. The Puszta is also famed for its horses, and we visit an equestrian farm to watch a performance by some of the region’s most skilled riders. You’ll have the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride and experience this unique wilderness from a different perspective.

We return to the ship for lunch as our elegant vessel seamlessly glides away from her mooring. Later we enjoy a welcome drink with the Captain in the lounge before descending the elegant staircase to the restaurant for a special Welcome Dinner.

This morning we arrive in historic Belgrade. The only European capital built at the confluence of two rivers, the city has been fought over numerous times, most recently during the Second World War and the Kosovo War, when it faced months of NATO airstrikes. Dramatically sited overlooking both rivers is Kalemegdan Park, which includes in its grounds the city’s iconic fortress, a stronghold built by the Celts, expanded by the Romans and besieged over a hundred times during its history – all detailed in its military museum. Despite its past, Belgrade is now a revitalized and forward-looking city and a delightful and varied place to explore, with delicate Art Nouveau facades tucked away among the stark concrete towers of the Communist era.

We enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights such as the cathedral, Republic Square and Prince Michael Street with its wealth of 19th-century buildings, some bearing the scars of recent conflicts among their intricate Habsburg ornamentation. After lunch, you are free to explore this fascinating capital, still one of the least visited in Europe. Maybe you’d like to wander the Old Town’s lattice of winding streets, pausing for a welcome drink in one of the grand coffee houses or visit the bubbling bohemian quarter, which is being transformed into a 21st-century cultural hub by an influx of creative talent.

As the evening draws in, relax with a stroll or a drink on the Sun Deck before tonight’s culinary delights.

IRON GATES GORGE

For many, today will be a highlight of the cruise as we begin our passage through the magnificent Iron Gates Gorge. One of the most memorable stretches of the Danube, this is where the river cuts its mighty path between the Carpathian and Balkan mountain ranges, forming part of the boundary between Serbia and Romania. The ‘true’ Iron Gates is a single narrow gorge, but the name covers an entire 83-mile stretch of valleys where towering limestone cliffs plunge into the depths below. During the 1960s and ’70s, two hydroelectric power stations were built here and their dams raised the river level by over 100 feet, submerging a number of historic settlements. We pass through the Great Kazan, meaning ‘cauldron’, where the river narrows to just 500 feet. As the Captain skilfully steers us through, you’ll see the huge sculpture of a Romanian hero – Decebalus – carved into the rock. Created in the 1990s, at over 130 feet high it is the largest rock relief in Europe – it even dwarfs the US presidents at Mount Rushmore. Decebalus was the last king of Dacia, the kingdom stretching from the Carpathians to the Black Sea. A warrior through and through, he fought the Roman Empire in three campaigns before Emperor Trajan got the better of him. Decebalus fled into the Carpathians, taking his own life rather than being captured.

On a day like this, the spacious Sun Deck comes into its own. Watch the spectacular scenery drift by from the comfort of a sun lounger or maybe enjoy a drink with new friends. You may even find an ice cream being served on the Bow Deck, which is beautifully attired with soft furnishings and stylish wooden fittings.

By now you’ll have come to appreciate the luxuries on board your five-star ship – little touches from complimentary dressing gowns and slippers to plush carpets in the corridors and the marble-topped bar. Crossing the border into Bulgaria tonight, you awake in Nikopol, a town dating back to Roman times, and after breakfast, we drive across the Danubian Plain to Pleven. Surrounded by several thousand acres of parks and forests, the town is famed as the scene of a major siege in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877. The joint Russian and Romanian army took five months to take the town, partly because the defending Turks were the first in European history to use repeating rifles. Pleven was a decisive battle, leading to the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the restoration of Bulgaria as a state and the independence of Romania. Opened to commemorate the battle’s centenary, the Pleven Panorama tells the story of this engagement through a series of moving photographs and canvasses. We enjoy some free time here, so perhaps visit the St George Chapel Mausoleum, a memorial to the soldiers killed during the siege, or one of the town’s many other museums. Or simply wander the Old Town and enjoy the tranquillity of its pedestrian-only streets.

During lunch we slip our moorings for an afternoon’s cruising, so why not enjoy the invigorating river breeze up on the Sun Deck? It will soon be time for dinner, so reconvene with your fellow travelers for an aperitif in the bar.

Today we visit Bucharest, with its tree-lined boulevards and elegant belle-époque villas – echoes of the hedonistic 1900s when it earned the nickname ‘Little Paris’ – dotted among the utilitarian architectural legacy of Communist rule. Dominating the capital city of Romania, though, is the astonishing Palace of the Parliament, a colossal concrete extravagance commissioned by the Communist dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. Started in 1984 and still unfinished, it is the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon – so big that only 400 of the 1,100 rooms are used. Furnished with all the gaudiness expected from a heartless despot at the head of a bankrupt state, from marble staircases to mosaics and chandeliers, to some it’s a marvel, to others a monument to vanity.

On our guided tour we see the Palace of the Parliament, which really has to be seen to be believed, and the city’s other main sights, such as the former royal palace – now the national art museum – and the Athenaeum with its impressive Baroque cupola and remarkable acoustics. There are also some superb Orthodox churches and squares, including Revolution Square, named after the 1989 uprising that swept away Ceausescu’s regime.

There’s also time to explore this vibrant city under your own steam. Lunch isn’t included today, so seek out a cozy restaurant in the Old Town for a fortifying plate of traditional meatballs, generously spiced with garlic, dill, and parsley; freshly stuffed peppers or a hearty vegetable and dumpling soup.

We return to the ship with time to relax before dinner. Perhaps borrow a board game or novel from the library or book yourself in for a manicure or pedicure at the on-board Hair and Nail Salon.

DANUBE DELTA

Overnight we cruise towards the city of Tulcea, clinging to seven hills overlooking the river and regarded as the gateway to the vast Danube Delta on the edge of the Black Sea. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is the best preserved and second largest river delta in Europe, consisting of 2,200 square miles of rivers, marshes, tree-fringed lakes and reed islands, where nearly 3,500 animal and fish species, and 1,700 types of plant, make their home. A bird watcher's paradise, the maze of canals bordered by willows and oaks offers the perfect breeding ground for countless species. Millions of Egyptian white pelicans arrive here every spring to raise their young, while equal numbers of Arctic geese come to escape the harsh Northern European winters. Keep an eye out for cormorants and white-tailed eagles.

This morning, we take a coach from  Brăila to Tulcea, where we’ll board smaller boats and sail into the tranquil Danube Delta. Our guide helps to point out some of the fascinating flora and fauna – you could spot a colourful kingfisher or a catfish darting beneath the water’s glassy surface.

As dusk begins to fall on this magical landscape, we slip our moorings again. Enjoy another delicious dinner, maybe tonight choosing a more intimate dining experience in the Bistro at the stern.

Today we begin our return passage, but these lands still have so much to reveal. Hold on to your hat up on deck, as this area is well known for its windy weather and windmills were once a common sight. Watch the rocky shoreline drift by, dotted with the occasional ruined fortress. We depart for the ancient city of Constanta, described by the Roman poet Ovid as ‘the end of the world’ and with a history dating back over 2,500 years. Originally known as Tomis, it is said that Jason landed here with the Argonauts after finding the Golden Fleece. Situated on several trade routes, it became a thriving commercial center during Roman times and still is today. Numerous remains from Greek and Roman times are on display in the city’s archaeological and mosaics museums, the latter housing the largest – an impressive 9,150 square feet – and best-preserved Roman mosaic in the world. Constanta’s landmark is the Art Nouveau casino, with its views of the Black Sea. Now unused, it was built by the Romanian King Carol I, who hoped its construction would transform the city into a bathing resort for the elite during the inter-war years, something that never quite transpired. More recently, it became one end of the shortest navigable route between the North and Black Seas when the Main-Danube Canal opened in 1992.

There is free time to explore, so perhaps visit one of the museums or simply enjoy the sea air with a portside walk.

VELIKO TARNOVO, ARBANASSI & IVANOVO

Crossing into Bulgaria, we arrive in Rousse, a city known as ‘Little Vienna’ for its wealth of fine 19th-century buildings. A scenic drive brings us to possibly Bulgaria’s most beautiful city – Veliko Tarnovo, the ‘City of the Tsars’ and former capital, located in a rugged landscape entangled by the meanderings of the Yantra River. Its Old Town is clustered on three hills with its houses stacked on steeply sided valleys, while the remains of the once-impregnable fortress complex stands on Tsarevets Hill. Within the walls of this redoubt are the ruins of the Tsar’s Palace and, at the summit, the Patriarch’s Palace, which includes the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of God. Much of Veliko Tarnovo was destroyed by the Ottomans, but in the 19th century, it became an important trading center again. Tucked away in its picturesque cobbled streets are tiny workshops, where you can watch copper pots being beaten or wooden utensils skilfully carved. It is delightful to wander here, keeping an eye out for interesting traditional snacks to try, admiring the architecture while soaking up the atmosphere.

Later we head to the village of Arbanassi, set high on a plateau. During Ottoman times, it became a commercial center for traders and their caravans, crammed with wares bound for places as distant as Italy, Russia and even India. Perhaps visit one of the richly ornamented mansion houses of the period, with their fortress-like stone walls, or the unassuming Church of the Nativity – once inside you’ll be dazzled by the intensely colored frescoes.

We end the day with a visit to the Churches of Ivanovo, a fascinating complex of churches, chapels, and monasteries hewn into the solid rock during the 12th century and with frescoes dating back to the 14th century, so exquisite and historically significant they are now on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

BELOGRADCHIK

This morning why not take a cup of coffee up on deck and soak up the spectacular open spaces of this landscape, where thick woods of fragrant pine and silver fir cling to the banks, forming a hazy outline on the distant horizon? After lunch we moor in Vidin, home to the Baba Vidin, the only entirely preserved medieval fortress in the country. From here, we drive into this rugged wilderness and suddenly the horizon is dotted with huge sandstone cliffs, in a spectrum of orange-reds and yellows, eroded into huge, bizarre shapes. These are the Belogradchik Rocks – unique and dramatic, they cover an area of 35 square miles, some reaching as high as 600 feet. Many of these gigantic natural sculptures are named after people or objects they are thought to resemble, while others are associated with colorful legends.

We return to the ship for dinner. Later on, maybe enjoy a drink in the lounge with your companions while the resident pianist plays gentle melodies.

IRON GATES & LEPENSKI VIR

This morning’s cruising brings us once again to the dramatic splendor of the Iron Gates Gorge, at the heart of Serbia’s Djerdap National Park. The gorge was cut out of the Carpathian mountains over millions of years as the Danube drained the Pannonian Sea. Among the park’s forests of the ancient oak, hazel and beech lies a rich preserve of game, including deer and wild boar. Mountain goats roam the rocky cliffs of Djerdap Kazan, while bears, wolves, foxes, and wildcats populate the dense woodland. Keep an eye out for eagles and falcons, too. Why not enjoy the splendor of this stretch of the river from a sun lounger on deck or through the panoramic windows in the ship’s lounge?

This afternoon we moor in Donji Milanovac and take the short drive to Lepenski Vir, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, dating back to 9,500 BC. It consists of a series of Mesolithic villages located on a high terrace overlooking the Danube. The wooden houses were laid out in a fan shape and used one of the first types of concrete as their foundations, while their floors were made of sandstone, often covered with limestone plaster and decorated with red and white pigments. Our guided tour will reveal more about this fascinating place and how these ancient people lived.

The numerous fortresses along the Danube are reminders that the area has been fought over for centuries and this morning we pass one of the most impressive – the medieval Smederevo Fortress. After a lazy day we moor in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, in the shadow of the Fruska Gora mountain, its fertile slopes terraced with vineyards. The climate and the proximity to the Danube make this region ideal for wine production, particularly Riesling, but there are many others produced here including Bermet, a vermouth-like dessert wine with a unique aromatic sweetness. Enjoy a guided tour of this vibrant city which flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming known as the ‘Athens of Serbia’. See its old Town Hall on the impressive main square, flanked by lovely 19th-century architecture, its ancient castle, and synagogue. Towering over it all is the mighty Petrovaradin Fortress with its complex system of underground tunnels. The minute and hour hands of its iconic clock face are reversed, supposedly so that fishermen could still tell the time at a distance. You can learn more about the fortress and its history at its museum.

We moor here this evening, so why not enjoy an after-dinner stroll and take in the relaxed ambiance of this lovely city?

OSIJEK & VUKOVAR

Today we cross into Croatia and stop in Vukovar, the country’s largest river port, located at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers. Vukovar boasted a prosperous manufacturing industry and a picturesque Baroque center until the tragic events of the civil war unfolded, and the city was almost completely destroyed. Renovation to restore the city to its former glory is very much ongoing.

Here we enjoy a guided tour, seeing the main sights and learning about the city’s tumultuous past. We then drive to the historic city of Osijek, which hugs the banks of the River Drava. We explore the Old Town – behind its thick stone walls lies an intriguing market square, lined by handsome public buildings with pastel-colored facades. In the Upper City, you’ll see the neo-Gothic cathedral, its red-brick spire soaring above the rooftops. Much of Osijek has been restored, but some buildings still bear the scars of the fighting.

This evening we cross into Hungary again, as the chef presents tonight’s appetizing menu.

As gentle pastoral landscapes slip by, Budapest’s brooding skyline comes into view once more. Straddling the Danube, this imperial capital is a collage of palatial buildings, grand domes and attractive Baroque churches with soaring spires. From Roman ruins to Ottoman Turkish baths and elegant Art Nouveau facades, the eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the city’s varied history, with numerous foreign powers ruling here over the centuries. We enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights of this lovely city including the iconic Parliament Building, the National Gallery with its huge collection of Hungarian masterpieces, and the Matthias Church with its intricate rose windows. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps head back to the Castle District to take in the panoramic views or explore one of the city’s many museums and galleries.

The Captain’s Dinner is served this evening, with a superb menu reflecting the countries and regions we have visited. As the sun sets on this memorable city, retire to the bar with your fellow travelers to reflect on all you have seen during this exceptional cruise.

DISEMBARK IN BUDAPEST

After breakfast this morning, the crew bids you farewell before you disembark the ship.

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of single cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes: 

• All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival through to breakfast on your day of departure (except one lunch), including welcome cocktails, a welcome dinner and the Captain’s Dinner 
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
• Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
• All visits and excursions as mentioned
• Coach travel as mentioned
• The services of a Riviera River Cruises cruise director

Meet Cruise Director Hanna

Useful Information

• Currencies: Euro (Ship and Croatia), Forint (Hungary), Lev (Bulgaria), Leu (Romania),
• Languages: Serbian, Bulgarian, Romanian, Croatian, Hungarian
• Countries: Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Hungary

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for the duration of your cruise. Please note that speeds may vary.

We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your vacation with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the vacation due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns. 

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The Black Sea to Budapest

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Reception and dinner at Bragadiru Palace in Bucharest

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $4,148

Choices of bicycle excursions in Budapest & Belgrade

Dinner at the massive Parliament building (the "People's Palace") in Bucharest  

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Explore the romantic lower Danube through the heart of Central Europe, where East and West meet and intertwine in fascinating cultures and turbulent history... Glide past medieval monasteries, citadels and villages...

Bragadiru palace, a tauck exclusive evening at bragadiru palace.

Named after founder Dumitru Marinescu Bragadiru, one of Romania's most important industrialists, the palace was originally used as a brewery and a performance hall before being confiscated in the 1940's (later returning to the descendants of Bragadiru in the early 2000's). Get ready to dine amidst the walls of this intrepid palace on a Tauck Exclusive evening here complete with dinner and musical entertainment.

Tauck Exclusive – Dinner at a Royal Palace

Exclusive tauck evening at serbia's royal white palace in belgrade.

The Serbian Royal Family's White Palace (Beli Dvor) in the Dedinje Complex in Belgrade was built for the then Crown Princes of Yugoslavia in the 1930s, and shares the complex with the Royal Palace, built a decade earlier and now home to HRH Crown Prince Alexander II of Serbia. The beautiful neo-Classical White Palace is the setting for our Tauck Exclusive gala dinner in Belgrade... an evening you won't soon forget!

The River of Kings – The Danube

This was a first for tauck and me on a river, so i expected the best and got the best. the ship was marvelous, the rooms spacious and the food delicious..

Tauck Traveler Review

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Welcome Aboard

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Intercontinental athénée palace bucharest.

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. You are not required to obtain a visa to enter any of the countries visited for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact the consulates or embassies  of Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania to determine what travel documentation is required.

International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note Regarding Crossing Borders between non-Schengen Countries: In order to clear customs at the non-Schengen ports, the Reception staff will take your passport during the cruise in order to show local authorities as we pass borders. Occasionally you will need to come to the front desk to have your identity quickly crossed checked with your passport by the authorities. The process is quick and efficient and there is no need for declarations, etc.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section above for further details of the coverage we offer.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. , no other vaccinations are currently required for travel to Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania or Bulgaria. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country ,  please contact an embassy or consulate of Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria to determine whether additional vaccinations are required for your travel.

While a cruise from the Black Sea to Budapest is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Sun, Diamond, Ruby and Emerald. On the ms Joy and ms Savor, the elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and the Emerald Deck. Please note on there is no elevator to the Emerald Deck on the ms Esprit and ms Treasures.  There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor on board. In case of emergency we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate along the Danube River changes from temperate to continental to maritime as you cruise eastward. Budapest experiences long, sunny summers that are warm and humid. Bucharest experiences hot and dry summers with moderate humidity. The Black Sea coast is similar in climate to the Mediterranean with moderating breezes off the water. From June through August, the average high temperatures increase slightly as you travel east along the river until you reach the Black Sea and range from 72 to 83°F (22 to 28°C). The average low temperatures range from 57 to 64°F (14 to 18°C). Rainfall amounts in this region remain fairly constant throughout the year, although late spring and early summer are generally the wettest seasons of the year. Conversely, as temperatures rise, rainfall decreases as you reach the Black Sea.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here .

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is always advisable. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers.  Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each guest room at the hotels and in each cabin on board the riverboat.

Valet laundry service is available at the hotels and on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities on the riverboat are available by request to the front desk. Category 7 cabins feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

We recommend you pack the following items for your cruise on the Danube: 

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard
• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for onshore
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Insect repellent
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

The Tauck Experience

Tauck's River Cruise Guide

Danube river facts, first timer's guide, why take a tauck river cruise, choosing the best european river cruise for you.

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From the Danube to the Black Sea

Undoubtedly one of the most complete cruises by the number of countries crossed (7 in 12 days) and the evolution of the landscapes encountered from Linz to the Danube Delta. One of the highlights of the cruise: the passage of the famous Iron Gates, the course of the Danube between the Carpathians and the Balkans. Many cities along the route: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, Belgrade, Giurgiu from where you can visit Bucharest ...

Trans-European cruise from Strasbourg to Tulcea, 3 rivers, the Rhine, the Main and the Danube

STRASBOURG - MAINZ - FRANKFURT - MILTENBERG - WERTHEIM - WURZBURG - SCHWEINFURT - BAMBERG - NUREMBERG - MÜHLHAUSEN - REGENSBURG - PASSAU - MELK - DURNSTEIN - VIENNA - ESZTERGOM - BUDAPEST - MOHACS - OSIJEK - NOVI SAD - BELGRADE - The Iron Gates - RUSE - CERNAVODA / FETESTI - TULCEA - OLTENITA

Exhilarating ports of call and amazing cuisine are on deck for this cruise from France to Romania. Take a journey through one thousand years of tradition,  where nature dazzles and monuments reflect the passionate, sometimes turbulent, history along the European waterways.

Along the river Danube, Budapest, the Balkan peninsula and the Danube delta

BUDAPEST - MOHACS - OSIJEK - NOVI SAD - BELGRADE - The Iron Gates - RUSE - CERNAVODA / FETESTI - TULCEA - OLTENITA

From Hungary to Romania via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures. 

From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)

OLTENITA - TULCEA - The Danube Delta - GIURGIU - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - BUDAPEST - BRATISLAVA - VIENNA

From the Danube Delta to the iron gates, admire the majestic blue river, crossing 8 countries and stopping in 4 capitals. You will discover tremendous landscapes of striking beauty where nature is queen. From Vienna to Belgrade via Bratislava and Budapest, discover unique architecture, history, and culture all along the beautiful Danube.

Along the Danube, the Danube delta, the Balkan peninsula and Budapest

OLTENITA - TULCEA - OLTENITA - Bucarest - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - OSIJEK - MOHACS - BUDAPEST

From Romania to Hungary via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures. 

Bucarest - Predeal - Sighisoara - Brasov - Predeal - Sibiu - Sibiel - Bran - Predeal - Sinaia - OLTENITA - TULCEA - OLTENITA - Bucarest - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - OSIJEK - MOHACS - BUDAPEST

From Romania to Hungary via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures.

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TAUCK RIVER CRUISES 12 Days | Budapest To The Black Sea Eastbound

BUDAPEST TO THE BLACK SEA Day 1 | Budapest, Hungary. This most exciting of Danube cruises and tours begins at 6:00 PM at Le Méridien Budapest. A transfer is included from Budapest's Ferihegy Airport to Le Méridien Budapest in the heart of the city's Pest section (or a similar property). Meet your fellow travelers and Tauck Directors at the welcome cocktail reception and dinner at the Akademia Club in the Hungarian Academy of Sciences overlooking the Danube. (Please note: on Aug 12 departure, the welcome reception and dinner will be held at the Festetics Palace.) (D) Day 2 | Budapest. Your exploration of Budapest begins in the city's Pest section – once an independent city of its own, but united with Buda in the mid-19th-century – with a visit to the neo-Renaissance St. Stephen's Basilica, built in 1905. Also view the Parliament building, a neo-Gothic masterpiece; Heroes’ Square, bounded by some of the finest architectural works in Hungary; and such Budapest treasures as City Park, Central Market Hall, and tree-lined Andrassy Avenue. (B) Day 3 | Budapest. Embark. Today's exploration of Buda begins at a museum and memorial to Hungarian composer Béla Bartók in his 1920s home, where you'll hear his melodies in a private piano recital. Revisit Budapest's World War II years and the Cold War era at the Sziklakórház ("Hospital in the Rock"), a recreation of underground miltary medical facilities in a former secret bunker beneath Buda Castle. Then check out Castle Hill, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on a guided walking tour; see architectural landmarks including the iconic Fishermen's Bastion, and spend time exploring on your own. Later, board ms Treasures to launch this most extraordinary of Danube cruises, and meet the ship's crew at the Captain's welcome reception tonight. (B,D) Day 4 | Kalosca. Spend some time discovering Kalocsa – celebrated for its paprika and folk art – where you'll learn about the history of paprika and its production from bell peppers at the Paprika Museum; visit the beautiful Baroque library in the Bishop’s Palace, housing one of the finest early collections in Europe; and attend a tasting at a Hungarian winery. (B,L,D) Day 5 | Vukovar, Croatia. As your discovery of the lower Danube cruises into Croatia, attend an on-board lecture by a local expert on the country's culture and history. Travel overland to the Baroque city of Vukovar, once showcasing opulent 18th-century mansions, but now poignantly symbolizing the effects of the 1990s war as it rebuilds; visit the home of a Vukovar family who have recently returned to resume their lives in the city after the conflict, who will share homemade refreshments with you. Continue your cruise to Serbia this afternoon, enhanced by commentary by your Tauck Directors. (B,L,D) Day 6 | Belgrade, Serbia. Dock in Belgrade, Serbia's modern capital at the juncture of the Danube and Sava rivers. A shipboard lecture sets the stage for sightseeing that includes visits to Tito's Memorial and the formidable Kalemegdan Fortress, and views of St. Sava Church, busy Slavija Square (now one of the city's major squares, but once a large pool where residents hunted wild ducks!), Parliament, Republic Square and City Hall. Following a Serbian lunch ashore at a former royal residence, you'll enjoy a special private reception at Belgrade's Royal Palace of Dedinje, where HRH Crown Prince Alexander II of Serbia and his family reside today. Return to the riverboat, where a Serbian folkloric group entertains you this evening. (B,L,D) Day 7 | The Iron Gate. Continuing one of Tauck's popular Danube cruises, relax on a day's cruise past the fields and vineyards of Eastern Europe; shipboard activities which may be offered throughout your cruise range from cooking demonstrations to folkloric, music and dance performances. Pass into Romania and through the Kazan Narrows and the Iron Gate of the Danube, a two-mile-long series of narrow gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountain ranges. As you glide along the Bulgarian / Romanian border, look for the massive monument to the 2nd-century Dacian King Decebalus – Europe's tallest rock sculpture, completed in 2004, carved into the riverbank on the Romanian side – as well as spectacular views of the Transylvanian Alps. (B,L,D) Day 8 | Svishtov, Bulgaria. Learn all about the imagery and symbolism of Iconography with a lecture and demonstration as your journey along the lower Danube cruises to Svishtov, Bulgaria, for excursions to nearby towns. Travel to the medieval capital of Bulgaria, Veliko Turnovo, whose ancient walled fortress and castle are set atop three hills overlooking the Yantra River. In the nearby town of Arbanassi, you'll have a chance to visit the Konstant-Salieva House and the Archangels Michael & Gabriel Church. A busy day concludes with an on-board presentation on Bulgarian customs, as well as performances of traditional music and dance. (B,L,D) Day 9 | Cernavoda, Romania. Black Sea. Arrive in Cernavoda and head off on a day trip to Romania's Black Sea coast. Your first stop is the historic port of Constanta, originally the Greek colony of Tomis in ancient days; see the city's numerous Greek and Roman antiquities, a monument to the poet Ovid (who was exiled here in Roman times) and the distinctive 19th-century waterfront casino on your guided tour. Continue on to the seaside resort of Eforie Nord to enjoy a traditional Romanian folk wedding performance for lunch. Please join us aboard the riverboat for the Captain's farewell cocktail reception and dinner tonight. (B,L,D) Day 10 | Bucharest. After disembarking your riverboat and bidding the crew goodbye in Cernavoda, travel through the Romanian countryside to Bucharest, capital of Romania and once regarded as the "Paris of the Balkans." A sightseeing tour includes Revolution Square and the Triumphal Arch; erected to commemorate Romania's reunification and those who fell in World War I, it is a smaller but otherwise exact copy of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. You'll also pay a visit to the massive People's Palace, home to Romania's Parliament; the world's second-largest building after the Pentagon, some parts of it are reportedly still unfinished! Tonight you'll spend the first of two nights at the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel in the heart of the city. (B,L) Day 11 | Bucharest. A choice of sightseeing in Romania today features the legacy of the 15th-century Romanian prince Vlad Tepes (a.k.a. "Vlad the Impaler"), thought to be the historical model for Bram Stoker's character of Dracula. You may choose to take a full day's excursion to tour Transylvania's 14th-century Bran Castle, which Tepes once used as a fortress during his military campaigns and is now a Romanian national monument, returning to Bucharest early evening. Or you can opt for a boat ride to Snagov Island to visit isolated Snagov Monastery, whose grounds are said to contain the final resting place of the infamous prince, as well as a stop at Caldarusani Monastery, followed by an afternoon at leisure back in Bucharest. Please join us tonight for a farewell dinner at the hotel. (B,L,D) Day 12 | Bucharest. Tour ends in Bucharest, Romania. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from the JW Marriott Bucharest Grand Hotel to Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport; please allow 3 hours for flight check-in at the airport. (B) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

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Budapest to the black sea river cruise - ms thomas hardy, 14 nights - 06 june 2024.

MS Thomas Hardy

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FREE Superior drinks package worth £400pp per week - Available on all 2024 and 2025 European river cruises!

Award-winning european river cruises include everything you need for an exceptional experience., delicious full board dining, plus captain's dinner, cruise only, was £3799 pp £3647 pp.

Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

WAS £4599 pp £4415 pp

Was £4949 pp £4751 pp.

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(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update). Please click here to check the essential travel requirement before booking this cruise. Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Riviera Travel under ATOL number 3230

06 June 2024

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situa... Read More

07 June 2024

Known for its vibrant red paprika fields, Kalocsa is a delighing town situated along the banks of the Danube adorned with intricate architecture and famed for its culinary prowess. With a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and history, Kalocsa embodies traditional folklore and tradition, attracting a global audience of visitors to engage in its lively festivities. 

08 June 2024

Belgrade, Serbia's capital, is characterised by its rich cultural tapestry, resilient spirit and lively nightlife. Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube, Belgrade beautifully blends history with modernity, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the magnificent Belgrade Fortress, wander through the bohemian Skadarlija district, and enjoy the city's vibrant culinary scene. Adorned with an amalgamation of architectural styles, reflecting the deep and complex history of the city, Belgrade embodies... Read More

09 June 2024

As the River Danube flows through the Carpathian Mountains, the breath-taking gorge known as the Iron Gates is formed, creating a natural border between Serbia and Romania. Characterised by steep limestone cliffs towering dramatically over the water, painting a magnificent landscape, this awe-inspiring stretch of the Danube is not only rich in natural beauty but also holds significance culturally and historically, home to archaeological remnants that date back to ancient times. The Iron Gates Dam is also si... Read More

10 June 2024

Nikopol, Bulgaria, has played a significant role in history thanks to its strategic location along the southern bank of the Danube, witnessing various civilisations and proving a crucial feature in many epochs, evidenced by its many archaeological marvels. A magnificent fortress sits atop a hill overlooking the Danube, showcasing Nikopol's military prowess and enduring legacy. 

11 June 2024

12 June 2024

13 June 2024

14 June 2024

Ruse, or "Little Vienna" as it is affectionately referred, is an enchanting city resting on the northern bank of the Danube in Bulgaria. Seamlessly blending an amalgamation of European influences, with elegant 19th-century buildings and grand avenues, Ruse is home to iconic architectural landmarks such as the Freedom Square and the Monument of Liberty. Beyond its rich history and architectural heritage, the city's strategic location as a major port along the Danube has pivotally influenced its progression as a c... Read More

15 June 2024

Steeped in medieval history, Vidin is a striking city located in the North-West of Bulgaria on the banks of the Danube, home to the incredible Baba Vida fortress, one of the country's oldest and best-preserved strongholds. Offering a glimpse into Bulgaria's cultural past, Vidin's cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era architecture paint a vivid picture of the country's legacy, surrounded by scenic views and the relaxed atmosphere of the Danube waterfront. 

16 June 2024

Donji milanovac.

Donji Milanovac offers a breathtaking backdrop for exploration and relaxation, situated at the confluence of the Danube and the Iron Gate Gorge. Steeped in natural beauty, the town boasts stunning vistas of rugged cliffs and serene waters, adorned with archaeological sites including the Lepenski Vir, an ancient settlement dating back thousands of years.

17 June 2024

Novi Sad, situated in the north of Serbia, is recognised for its stunning landscapes, cultural richness and historical architecture. The famous Petrovaradin Fortress dominates the city scape, and plays host annually to the EXIT music festival, drawing crowds from across the globe. With its enticing old town, colourful culinary scene and welcoming feel, sitting along the banks of the Danube, Novi Sad offers a delightful blend of history, entertainment and Serbian hospitality.

18 June 2024

Vukovar is a Croatian city with a poignant history, marked by the Croatian War of Independence of the early 20th Century, during which it suffered extensive damage and destruction. Despite the scars of its past, Vukovar has seen remarkable efforts to rebuild, whilst maintaining elements of its rich cultural history. Visitors today can explore the Baroque architecture of Eltz Castle and the solemn Memorial Cemetery, serving as a symbol of resilience and strength alongside hope, recovery and light, a tribute to th... Read More

19 June 2024

20 june 2024.

*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Belgrade, Serbia's capital, is characterised by its rich cultural tapestry, resilient spirit and lively nightlife. Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube, Belgrade beautifully blends history with modernity, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the magnificent Belgrade Fortress, wander through the bohemian Skadarlija district, and enjoy the city's vibrant culinary scene. Adorned with an amalgamation of architectural styles, reflecting the deep and complex history of the city, Belgrade embodies the resilience and vitality of Serbia. 

As the River Danube flows through the Carpathian Mountains, the breath-taking gorge known as the Iron Gates is formed, creating a natural border between Serbia and Romania. Characterised by steep limestone cliffs towering dramatically over the water, painting a magnificent landscape, this awe-inspiring stretch of the Danube is not only rich in natural beauty but also holds significance culturally and historically, home to archaeological remnants that date back to ancient times. The Iron Gates Dam is also situated within the Iron Gates, one of Europe's largest hydro-electric power stations, only further enhancing the gravity of the geographical marvel. 

Ruse, or "Little Vienna" as it is affectionately referred, is an enchanting city resting on the northern bank of the Danube in Bulgaria. Seamlessly blending an amalgamation of European influences, with elegant 19th-century buildings and grand avenues, Ruse is home to iconic architectural landmarks such as the Freedom Square and the Monument of Liberty. Beyond its rich history and architectural heritage, the city's strategic location as a major port along the Danube has pivotally influenced its progression as a cultural and economic hub.

Vukovar is a Croatian city with a poignant history, marked by the Croatian War of Independence of the early 20th Century, during which it suffered extensive damage and destruction. Despite the scars of its past, Vukovar has seen remarkable efforts to rebuild, whilst maintaining elements of its rich cultural history. Visitors today can explore the Baroque architecture of Eltz Castle and the solemn Memorial Cemetery, serving as a symbol of resilience and strength alongside hope, recovery and light, a tribute to the powerful determination of its population. 

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What's included, tea and coffee.

All airport taxes and port charges

Direct flights from up to 17 uk airports with no regional supplements & transfers, five-star ships with impeccable on-board service, spacious cabins with windows, insightful excursions & visits every day with local guides, expert riviera cruise director looking after you throughout, evening entertainment from quizzes to impressive performers, explore ms thomas hardy.

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Main Restaurant

Bistro restaurant, panorama bar, fitness centre & spa.

The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 167 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

The ship’s restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables of just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

At the Bistro with its open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating, enjoy a more intimate dining experience whilst taking in the fantastic views. Here in the evenings the chef presents his personal signature dishes to a small number of diners with menus varying according to the seasons; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience.

On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains. You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.

After a superb dinner in the restaurant perhaps it’s time for a digestif accompanied by the soothing tones of the ship’s pianist or unwind with a book from the smartly wood panelled library. 

On the Emerald Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or for something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage. So you will always look your best there is a hairdressers too which also offers manicure and pedicure treatments.

Small splash pool and putting green on the Sun Deck

MS Thomas Hardy Cabins & Suites

Superior Suites

Deluxe Balcony Suites

A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level! Suites on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement and are subject to availability.

The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.

The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly.

You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Suites on the Diamond (upper) and Ruby (middle) Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer!

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments. *Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite available on the Ruby (middle) and Diamond (upper) decks. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!

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Budapest to The Black Sea

Traverse the Danube in elegance and style aboard our luxury vessels that dodge minimalism and lean into fantastic mood lighting and bright colours. Aboard our Riviera Travel Cruise ships, the priority is your comfort as we commandeer you down the adventure of a lifetime.

Take a gander through history at the variety of museums, dated landmarks, chapels, fortresses and UNESCO World Heritage sites in order to further your understanding of the vibrant cultures scattered down the Danube.

Whether you’d rather experience a guided tour through fortress ruins, or a sit-down dining experience where you taste local cuisine and interact with locals, there’s something for everyone aboard our Danube River Cruise .

Budapest to The Black Sea Gallery

Budapest to The Black Sea Cruise Itinerary

On a round trip beginning and ending in Budapest, cruise down the Danube through the Balkans for the adventure of a lifetime. Enjoy scenic views, visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites and exploring fortresses on this fifteen-day pre-planned dive into the cultures found along this famous river.

• Budapest (EMBARK)

Fly to Budapest and transfer onto your 5-star cruise ship.

Discover the impressive Baroque Cathedral, grand Archbishop’s Palace and enjoy a walking tour through the town. Alternatively, take a drive to the Paprika house and continue to the Puszta, Hungary’s Great Plain.

Enjoy a trip to Kalemegdan Park and a guided tour through the cathedral, Republic Square and Prince Michael Street. Use your free time to explore the Old Town and enjoy a drink at one of the coffee houses.

• Iron Gates Gorge

Lounge on the sun deck as we traverse the magnificent gorge; a highlight for many passengers. Enjoy the views as our crew navigates the Great Kazan, where the river narrows to just 500ft.

Use your free time to pay a visit to the St George Chapel Museum or one of the town’s many other museums or simply wander the streets to immerse yourself in culture.

Our guided tour will take you to the Palace of Parliament, the former royal palace/national art museum and the Athenaeum. There is also the option of multiple Orthodox churches and squares, including Revolution Square, to pay a visit to.

• Danube Delta

To explore this bird-watcher’s paradise, we disembark onto smaller boats for an excursion guided by an expert who will point out the fascinating aspects of flora and fauna.

Today we begin our return passage. Use your free time to visit one of the many museums or simply enjoy the sea air with a portside walk.

• Veliko Tarnovo / Arbanassi / Ivarno

Explore the Old Town of Veliko Tarnovo, or the remains of the fortress complex on Tsarevets Hill; containing the ruins of Tsar’s Palace and Patriarch’s Palace.

Pay a visit to one of the richly-ornamented mansion houses, or the unassuming Church of Nativity in Arbanassi.

We end the day with a visit to the Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of churches, chapels and monasteries registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Belogradchik

After lunch we moor in Vidin. Use this opportunity to dive into the wilderness and enjoy the views created by the Belogradchik Rocks.

• Iron Gates / Lepenski Vir

Return to the splendor of the Iron Gates and enjoy a peaceful passage through the heart of Serbia’s Djerdap National Park.

Wander the wooden houses laid out in a fan shape at Lepenski Vir, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe.

Enjoy a guided tour of this Vibrant City, known as the ‘Athens of Serbia’. See its Town Hall, ancient castle, synagogue and the mighty Petrovaradin Fortress.

Osijek / Vukovar

Enjoy a guided tour of Osijek, seeing the main sights and learning about the city’s tumultuous past.

Drive to the historical city of Osijek, tour the Old Town and Upper City with its neo-gothic cathedral. Much of the city has been restored, but some buildings still bear the scars of conflict.

Embark on a guided tour, including the Parliament Building, National Gallery and the Matthias Church. Then spend the rest of your day at leisure, perhaps paying a visit to the Castle District or one of the many museums.

• Budapest (DISEMBARK)

Return to the airport for your flight home.

Budapest to The Black Sea Cruise Ships

MS Oscar Wilde

MS Oscar Wilde adds an elegant, outspoken, and poetic tone to your cruise, making you feel as if you’ve stepped into an adventure novel encapsulated in the very real style and comfort commonplace aboard a Riviera Travel cruise.

MS Thomas Hardy

Styled by leading European designers, MS Thomas Hardy’s elegant interiors feature marble floors, rich hardwoods, and plush fabrics. Blend modern comforts like air-conditioning with spacious cabins and fine dining for the cruise of a lifetime.

MS William Wordsworth

Built to sustain not only its guests but its own unrivalled beauty and charm, the MS William Wordsworth promises comfort and opulence aplenty with its stunning decor and many magnificent amenities.

MS Emily Brontë

Low passenger numbers guarantee an intimate and personal cruise experience aboard the MS Emily Bronte. Enjoy elegant interiors crafted by the finest European design studios and socialise, dine, or just relax on the glorious Sun Deck.

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Budapest to The Black Sea Cruise Review

“My husband and I booked this river cruise for our anniversary. An excellent decision. It was the action-packed romantic getaway of our dreams. It was so peaceful floating through the Iron Gates Gorge – the fact this cruise does that multiple times is simply amazing.”

Budapest to The Black Sea FAQ

Find answers to some of the most common questions about river cruising here.

How many spaces are available?

Each ship can host a maximum of 167 passengers so make sure to confirm your space ASAP.

Is Wi-Fi available on board?

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi is available to all guests during the duration of the cruise. However, it is important to note and plan for varying levels of speed and connection.

What currencies will be needed to make purchases?

Please note that aboard our ships we trade in Euros. Currencies: Forint (Hungary), Lev (Bulgaria), Leu (Romania), Euro (Croatia), Dinar (Serbia)

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Split Return (South)

Departing on the 14th of August sailing in a Lower Deck Cabin .

Price : £4,173 (per person)

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Departing on the 14th of August to 14th of August

Black Sea Explorer

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Discover the Byzantine gem of Veliko Tarnovo and the village of Arbanassi
• Relax on board and admire the scenery as you cruise through the Iron Gates
• Take a blissful guided bike ride through Osijek’s countryside
• Enjoy a traditional Hungarian horse show in Kalocsa
• River Cruises
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• Danube River
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Full Itinerary

Day 1: budapest | embark.

• Accommodation

Day 2: Kalocsa

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Osijek

Day 4: belgrade, day 5: iron gates, day 6: svishtov | rousse, day 7: silistra, day 8: giurgiu | disembark | bucharest.

• 1 Breakfast

Scenic Jade

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $700, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Visa or Mastercard. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Scenic - General Terms & Conditions - Scenic Cruises

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
• 7 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Port taxes and charges
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• Complimentary beverages
• Travel Insurance
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• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
• Passport or Visa fees
• All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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Home » Cruises » Riviera Travel River Cruises » Budapest to the Black Sea

Budapest to the Black Sea - Gems of Southeast Europe

From £2,999 pp.

On this incredible journey through the Balkans, we start by exploring the stunning sights of Kalocsa, Pecs and Belgrade with its magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress. Then it’s off to Pleven passing through the Iron Gates Gorge and the Djerdap locks before visiting Bucharest. Known as ‘little Paris’ this gem of a capital city will capture your heart with its romantic buildings and tree-lined boulevards. Then we explore the very best of The Danube Delta and enjoy a cruise through Europe’s largest area of wetlands and marshlands – a UNESCO-listed site. From here we see Constanta where you can explore it’s charming Old Town and museums, Veliko Tarnovo and the village of Arbanassi. After taking a scenic drive to the spectacular rock formations at Belogradchik we visit Lepenski Vir – one of the most important Mesolithic archaeological sites in Serbia before travelling to Novi Sad, Osijek and Vukovar. Finally, we discover the imperial city of two halves – Budapest.

What’s Included:

• Return flights from the UK & overseas transfers
• See Kalocsa cathedral, the Archbishop’s Palace and Paprika Museum
• Enjoy a guided tour of the historic Pecs
• Take a scenic drive into the ‘Puszta’ and watch a performance by some of the regions most skilled horsemen
• Tour the historic city of Belgrade seeing the magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress
• Cruise through the Iron Gates Gorge and pass through the Djerdap locks
• Visit Pleven, the scene of a major battle during the Russo-Turkish War and the Pleven Panorama depicting these historic events
• Guided tour of Bucharest, seeing the main sights of this beautiful city
• Experience the vast nature of the Danube Delta
• Visit the ancient Romanian port of Constanta on the Black Sea
• Visit the fascinating Veliko Tarnovo, the village of Arbanassi and its ancient Church of the Nativity, plus the magnificent Churches of Ivanovo
• Take a scenic drive to the spectacular rock formations at Belogradchik
• Visit Lepenski Vir, one of the most important Mesolithic archaeological sites in Serbia
• Enjoy a guided tour of cosmopolitan Novi Sad, with its historic Old Town
• Visit Budapest and enjoy a guided tour
• All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your day of departure (except one lunch), including welcome cocktails and dinner, plus the Captain’s Dinner
• Complimentary drinks with meals and from 6pm to midnight from the bar
• Return flights from a selection of regional airports with transfers to and from the ship included
• All port charges, airport taxes and overseas transfers included

Riviera Plus 

Customers in all deluxe and superior suites and all upper-deck cabins will benefit from a wealth of unique, new benefits:

• A bathroom stocked with luxury toiletries upon arrival
• A bottle of champagne awaiting you when you arrive
• Locally inspired gifts for you to take home
• Enjoy a massage, spa treatment or hairdresser with a 10% discount
• Receive 10% off our convenient onboard laundry services

Watch the Video of this Tour

• Budapest - Budapest

You fly to Budapest, where a coach transfers you to your five-star cruise ship, moored in this beautiful city. The friendly crew will welcome you on board and help you settle into your spacious, luxuriously appointed suite. The ship remains here overnight, so watch dusk descend over Hungary’s capital as you enjoy your first dinner on board.

One of the most thrilling aspects of a cruise is waking up somewhere new, and there’s a real sense of excitement as we explore lands unknown to many until the Iron Curtain lifted. Hungary itself has so much to offer; situated at a crossroads in central Europe, it’s a mesmerising blend of European and Ottoman influences, rich in culture and history.

Our adventure begins this morning when we arrive in Kalocsa, a city whose 1,000-year-old lore swirls with tales of warlike bishops, saintly kings, rampaging Ottomans and Magyar heroes. Among its fine buildings you’ll discover an impressive Baroque cathedral and the grand Archbishop’s Palace, with its Ceremonial Hall displaying a replica of the Hungarian holy crown.

You can choose to enjoy a walking tour of the town seeing the sights plus the fascinating Paprika Museum; the region is one of the biggest producers of the seasoning that’s an essential part of Hungarian cuisine – goulash being a famous example. There are many types and strengths of ‘red gold’, but the best variety is said to come from here, due to its rich colour and robust flavour.

Alternatively we take the short drive to a paprika house on the outskirts of the town to learn more about its production before continuing on a scenic drive into the Puszta, Hungary’s Great Plain, a hauntingly atmospheric prairie whose spirit is burnt into the Magyar soul. Stretching as far as the eye can see, it is home to villages seemingly frozen in time, while Hungarian grey cattle, spiral-horned sheep and buffalo graze on its pastures.

The Puszta is also famed for its horses, and we visit an equestrian farm to watch a performance by some of the region’s most skilled riders. You’ll have the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride and experience this unique wilderness from a different perspective.

We return to the ship for lunch as our elegant vessel seamlessly glides away from her mooring. Later we enjoy a welcome drink with the Captain in the lounge before descending the elegant staircase to the restaurant for a special Welcome Dinner.

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

This morning we arrive in historic Belgrade. The only European capital built at the confluence of two rivers, the city has been fought over numerous times, most recently during the Second World War and the Kosovo War, when it faced months of NATO airstrikes. Dramatically sited overlooking both rivers is Kalemegdan Park, which includes in its grounds the city’s iconic fortress, a stronghold built by the Celts, expanded by the Romans and besieged over a hundred times during its history – all detailed in its military museum. Despite its past, Belgrade is now a revitalised and forward-looking city and a delightful and varied place to explore, with delicate Art Nouveau facades tucked away among the stark concrete towers of the Communist era.

We enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights such as the cathedral, Republic Square and Prince Michael Street with its wealth of 19th-century buildings, some bearing the scars of recent conflicts among their intricate Habsburg ornamentation. After lunch, you are free to explore this fascinating capital, still one of the least visited in Europe. Maybe you’d like to wander the Old Town’s lattice of winding streets, pausing for a welcome drink in one of the grand coffee houses or visit the bubbling bohemian quarter, which is being transformed into a 21st-century cultural hub by an influx of creative talent. As the evening draws in, relax with a stroll or a drink on the Sun Deck before tonight’s culinary delights.

For many, today will be a highlight of the cruise as we begin our passage through the magnificent Iron Gates Gorge. One of the most memorable stretches of the Danube, this is where the river cuts its mighty path between the Carpathian and Balkan mountain ranges, forming part of the boundary between Serbia and Romania. The ‘true’ Iron Gates is a single narrow gorge, but the name covers an entire 83-mile stretch of valleys where towering limestone cliffs plunge into the depths below. During the 1960s and ’70s, two hydroelectric power stations were built here and their dams raised the river level by over 100 feet, submerging a number of historic settlements. We pass through the Great Kazan, meaning ‘cauldron’, where the river narrows to just 500 feet. As the Captain skilfully steers us through, you’ll see the huge sculpture of a Romanian hero – Decebalus – carved into the rock. Created in the 1990s, at over 130 feet high it is the largest rock relief in Europe – it even dwarfs the US presidents at Mount Rushmore. Decebalus was the last king of Dacia, the kingdom stretching from the Carpathians to the Black Sea.

Decebalus was the last king of Dacia, the kingdom stretching from the Carpathians to the Black Sea. A warrior through and through, he fought the Roman Empire in three campaigns before the Emperor Trajan got the better of him. Decebalus fled into the Carpathians, taking his own life rather than being captured. On a day like this, the spacious Sun Deck comes into its own. Watch the spectacular scenery drift by from the comfort of a sun lounger or maybe enjoy a drink with new friends. You may even find an ice cream being served on the Bow Deck, which is beautifully attired with soft furnishings and stylish wooden fittings.

By now you’ll have come to appreciate the luxuries on board your five-star ship – little touches from complimentary dressing gowns and slippers to plush carpets in the corridors and the marble-topped bar. Crossing the border into Bulgaria tonight, you awake in Nikopol, a town dating back to Roman times, and after breakfast we drive across the Danubian Plain to Pleven. Surrounded by several thousand acres of parks and forest, the town is famed as the scene of a major siege in the Russo-Turkish War of 1877. The joint Russian and Romanian army took five months to take the town, partly because the defending Turks were the first in European history to use repeating rifles.

Pleven was a decisive battle, leading to the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the restoration of Bulgaria as a state and the independence of Romania. Opened to commemorate the battle’s centenary, the Pleven Panorama tells the story of this engagement through a series of moving photographs and canvasses. We enjoy some free time here, so perhaps visit the St George Chapel Mausoleum, a memorial to the soldiers killed during the siege, or one of the town’s many other museums. Or simply wander the Old Town and enjoy the tranquillity of its pedestrian-only streets. During lunch we slip our moorings for an afternoon’s cruising, so why not enjoy the invigorating river breeze up on the Sun Deck? It will soon be time for dinner, so reconvene with your fellow travellers for an aperitif in the bar.

Today we visit Bucharest, with its tree-lined boulevards and elegant belle-époque villas – echoes of the hedonistic 1900s when it earned the nickname ‘Little Paris’ – dotted among the utilitarian architectural legacy of Communist rule. Dominating the capital city of Romania, though, is the astonishing Palace of the Parliament, a colossal concrete extravagance commissioned by the Communist dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. Started in 1984 and still unfinished, it is the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon – so big that only 400 of the 1,100 rooms are used. Furnished with all the gaudiness expected from a heartless despot at the head of a bankrupt state, from marble staircases to mosaics and chandeliers, to some it’s a marvel, to others a monument to vanity.

On our guided tour we see the Palace of the Parliament, which really has to be seen to be believed, and the city’s other main sights, such as the former royal palace – now the national art museum – and the Athenaeum with its impressive Baroque cupola and remarkable acoustics. There are also some superb Orthodox churches and squares, including Revolution Square, named after the 1989 uprising that swept away Ceausescu’s regime. There’s also time to explore this vibrant city under your own steam. Lunch isn’t included today, so seek out a cosy restaurant in the Old Town for a fortifying plate of traditional meatballs, generously spiced with garlic, dill and parsley; freshly stuffed peppers or a hearty vegetable and dumpling soup. We return to the ship with time to relax before dinner. Perhaps borrow a board game or novel from the library or book yourself in for a manicure or pedicure at the on-board Hair and Nail Salon.

Overnight we cruise towards the city of Tulcea, clinging to seven hills overlooking the river and regarded as the gateway to the vast Danube Delta on the edge of the Black Sea. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is the best preserved and second largest river delta in Europe, consisting of 2,200 square miles of rivers, marshes, tree-fringed lakes and reed islands, where nearly 3,500 animal and fish species, and 1,700 types of plant, make their home. A bird-watcher’s paradise, the maze of canals bordered by willows and oaks offers the perfect breeding ground for countless species. Millions of Egyptian white pelicans arrive here every spring to raise their young, while equal numbers of Arctic geese come to escape the harsh Northern European winters. Keep an eye out for cormorants and white-tailed eagles.

After lunch, we disembark to take an excursion on smaller boats into the heart of this inspirational and tranquil place. Our guide helps to point out some of the fascinating flora and fauna – you could spot a colourful kingfisher or a catfish darting beneath the water’s glassy surface. As dusk begins to fall on this magical landscape, we slip our moorings again. Enjoy another delicious dinner, maybe tonight choosing a more intimate dining experience in the Bistro at the stern.

Today we begin our return passage, but these lands still have so much to reveal. Hold on to your hat up on deck, as this area is well known for its windy weather and windmills were once a common sight. Watch the rocky shoreline drift by, dotted with the occasional ruined fortress. We depart for the ancient city of Constanta, described by the Roman poet Ovid as ‘the end of the world’ and with a history dating back over 2,500 years. Originally known as Tomis, it is said that Jason landed here with the Argonauts after finding the Golden Fleece. Situated on several trade routes, it became a thriving commercial centre during Roman times and still is today. Numerous remains from Greek and Roman times are on display in the city’s archaeological and mosaics museums, the latter housing the largest – an impressive 9,150 square feet – and best-preserved Roman mosaic in the world.

Constanta’s landmark is the Art Nouveau casino, with its views of the Black Sea. Now unused, it was built by the Romanian King Carol I, who hoped its construction would transform the city into a bathing resort for the elite during the inter-war years, something that never quite transpired. More recently, it became one end of the shortest navigable route between the North and Black Seas when the Main-Danube Canal opened in 1992. There is free time to explore, so perhaps visit one of the museums or simply enjoy the sea air with a portside walk.

Crossing into Bulgaria, we arrive in Rousse, a city known as ‘Little Vienna’ for its wealth of fine 19th-century buildings. A scenic drive brings us to possibly Bulgaria’s most beautiful city – Veliko Tarnovo, the ‘City of the Tsars’ and former capital, located in a rugged landscape entangled by the meanderings of the Yantra River. Its Old Town is clustered on three hills with its houses stacked on steeply sided valleys, while the remains of the once-impregnable fortress complex stands on Tsarevets Hill. Within the walls of this redoubt are the ruins of the Tsar’s Palace and, at the summit, the Patriarch’s Palace, which includes the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of God. Much of Veliko Tarnovo was destroyed by the Ottomans, but in the 19th century it became an important trading centre again. Tucked away in its picturesque cobbled streets are tiny workshops, where you can watch copper pots being beaten or wooden utensils skilfully carved. It is delightful to wander here, keeping an eye out for interesting traditional snacks to try, admiring the architecture while soaking up the atmosphere.

It is delightful to wander here, keeping an eye out for interesting traditional snacks to try, admiring the architecture while soaking up the atmosphere. Much of Veliko Tarnovo was destroyed by the Ottomans, but in the 19th century it became an important trading centre again. Tucked away in its picturesque cobbled streets are tiny workshops, where you can watch copper pots being beaten or wooden utensils skilfully carved. It is delightful to wander here, keeping an eye out for interesting traditional snacks to try, admiring the architecture while soaking up the atmosphere. Later we head to the village of Arbanassi, set high on a plateau. During Ottoman times, it became a commercial centre for traders and their caravans, crammed with wares bound for places as distant as Italy, Russia and even India. Perhaps visit one of the richly ornamented mansion houses of the period, with their fortress-like stone walls, or the unassuming Church of the Nativity – once inside you’ll be dazzled by the intensely coloured frescoes. We end the day with a visit to the Churches of Ivanovo, a fascinating complex of churches, chapels and monasteries hewn into the solid rock during the 12th century and with frescoes dating back to the 14th century, so exquisite and historically significant they are now on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

This morning why not take a cup of coffee up on deck and soak up the spectacular open spaces of this landscape, where thick woods of fragrant pine and silver fir cling to the banks, forming a hazy outline on the distant horizon? After lunch we moor in Vidin, home to the Baba Vidin, the only entirely preserved medieval fortress in the country. From here, we drive into this rugged wilderness and suddenly the horizon is dotted with huge sandstone cliffs, in a spectrum of orange-reds and yellows, eroded into huge, bizarre shapes. These are the Belogradchik Rocks – unique and dramatic, they cover an area of 35 square miles, some reaching as high as 600 feet. Many of these gigantic natural sculptures are named after people or objects they are thought to resemble, while others are associated with colourful legends. We return to the ship for dinner. Later on, maybe enjoy a drink in the lounge with your companions while the resident pianist plays gentle melodies.

This morning’s cruising brings us once again to the dramatic splendour of the Iron Gates Gorge, at the heart of Serbia’s Djerdap National Park. The gorge was cut out of the Carpathian mountains over millions of years as the Danube drained the Pannonian Sea. Among the park’s forests of ancient oak, hazel and beech lies a rich preserve of game, including deer and wild boar. Mountain goats roam the rocky cliffs of Djerdap Kazan, while bears, wolves, foxes and wildcats populate the dense woodland. Keep an eye out for eagles and falcons, too. Why not enjoy the splendour of this stretch of the river from a sun lounger on deck or through the panoramic windows in the ship’s lounge.

This afternoon we moor in Donji Milanovac and take the short drive to Lepenski Vir, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, dating back to 9,500 BC. It consists of a series of Mesolithic villages located on a high terrace overlooking the Danube. The wooden houses were laid out in a fan shape and used one of the first types of concrete as their foundations, while their floors were made of sandstone, often covered with limestone plaster and decorated with red and white pigments. Our guided tour will reveal more about this fascinating place and how these ancient people lived.

The numerous fortresses along the Danube are reminders that the area has been fought over for centuries and this morning we pass one of the most impressive – the medieval Smederevo Fortress. After a lazy day we moor in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, in the shadow of the Fruska Gora mountain, its fertile slopes terraced with vineyards. The climate and the proximity to the Danube make this region ideal for wine production, particularly Riesling, but there are many others produced here including Bermet, a vermouth-like dessert wine with a unique aromatic sweetness.

Enjoy a guided tour of this vibrant city which flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming known as the ‘Athens of Serbia’. See its old Town Hall on the impressive main square, flanked by lovely 19th-century architecture, its ancient castle and synagogue. Towering over it all is the mighty Petrovaradin Fortress with its complex system of underground tunnels. The minute and hour hands of its iconic clock face are reversed, supposedly so that fishermen could still tell the time at a distance. You can learn more about the fortress and its history at its museum. We moor here this evening, so why not enjoy an after-dinner stroll and take in the relaxed ambience of this lovely city?

Today we cross into Croatia and stop in Vukovar, the country’s largest river port, located at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers. Vukovar boasted a prosperous manufacturing industry and a picturesque Baroque centre until the tragic events of the civil war unfolded, and the city was almost completely destroyed. Renovation to restore the city to its former glory is very much ongoing. Here we enjoy a guided tour, seeing the main sights and learning about the city’s tumultuous past. We then drive to the historic city of Osijek, which hugs the banks of the River Drava. We explore the Old Town – behind its thick stone walls lies an intriguing market square, lined by handsome public buildings with pastel-coloured facades. In the Upper City you’ll see the neo-Gothic cathedral, its red-brick spire soaring above the rooftops. Much of Osijek has been restored, but some buildings still bear the scars of the fighting. This evening we cross into Hungary again, as the chef presents tonight’s appetising menu.

As gentle pastoral landscapes slip by, Budapest’s brooding skyline comes into view once more. Straddling the Danube, this imperial capital is a collage of palatial buildings, grand domes and attractive Baroque churches with soaring spires. From Roman ruins to Ottoman Turkish baths and elegant Art Nouveau facades, the eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the city’s varied history, with numerous foreign powers ruling here over the centuries. We enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights of this lovely city including the iconic Parliament Building, the National Gallery with its huge collection of Hungarian masterpieces, and the Matthias Church with its intricate rose windows.

The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps head back to the Castle District to take in the panoramic views or explore one of the city’s many museums and galleries. The Captain’s Dinner is served this evening, with a superb menu reflecting the countries and regions we have visited. As the sun sets on this memorable city, retire to the bar with your fellow travellers to reflect on all you have seen during this exceptional cruise.

Today at the appropriate time you return to the airport for your return flight.

• Robert Burns
• Thomas Hardy
• William Wordsworth
• Geoffrey Chaucer
• Emily Brontë

Robert Burns is one of Riviera Travel’s new ‘all suite’ ships.  Launched in 2018 she offers excellent standards of accommodation consistent with Scylla’s (the ship operator) other 5 star ships. Standard Suites are large at 183 ft² with floor to ceiling windows opening to a rail on the middle and upper decks. Suites on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 172 ft² and feature high level windows. 6 Superior Suites and 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites are available on each ship at 247 ft² and 269 ft² respectively. Deluxe Balcony Suites, located on the upper deck, also feature a small private balcony. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 176 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels. An outstanding ship it would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that, a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. A spacious new vessel as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout, including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising.

Onboard Features & Facilities

• 88 comfortable outside suites, most with French balconies, some with private balcony
• For and aft sundecks with sun-shades, deck chairs & loungers
• ‘Whirlpool’ splash pool
• Stylish restaurant with open seating with tables of 4 and 6
• Main lounge with bar & piano
• Bistro bar & restaurant
• Complimentary coffee and tea throughout the day with speciality patisseries in the afternoon
• Elevator to Diamond, Ruby and Emerald decks
• Wellness area, massage, nail salon and hairdresser
• Onboard souvenir shop*
• Laundry service*

* Payable locally.

Accommodation & Amenities

88 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 172 – 269 ft² or indulge even more in one of the 6 Superior suites or 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites. Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.

Deluxe Balcony Suite

269 ft² – diamond (upper) deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a private balcony with table and chairs and additional floor to ceiling windows
• Enhanced sitting area
• Larger private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with  Crabtree and Evelyn  bath products, Bathrobes and slippers
• Hotel style beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
• A bed turn down service operates during dinner
• Seating area with 2 chairs and a table
• In room safe, mini-bar, hair dryer, full-length mirror, plenty of storage space & telephone
• Tea & Coffee making facilities
• Flat-screen televisions with satellite TV channels, GPS and for & aft camera views.
• Individually controlled air-conditioning

Superior & Superior Stern Suite

247 ft² – diamond & ruby (upper & middle) deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to French balcony
• Marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with  Crabtree and Evelyn  bath products

Diamond Deck & Ruby Deck Suite

183 ft² – diamond & ruby (upper & middle) deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
• Private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with  Crabtree and Evelyn  bath products

Emerald Deck Suite

172 ft² –  emerald (lower) deck.

• Smaller Fixed Window

Thomas Hardy is one of Riviera Travel’s new ‘all suite’ ships.  Launched in 2017 she offers excellent standards of accommodation consistent with Scylla’s (the ship operator) other 5 star ships. Standard Suites are large at 183 ft² with floor to ceiling windows opening to a rail on the middle and upper decks. Suites on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 172 ft² and feature high level windows. 6 Superior Suites and 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites are available on each ship at 247 ft² and 269 ft² respectively. Deluxe Balcony Suites, located on the upper deck, also feature a small private balcony. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 176 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with first class service levels. An outstanding ship it would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that, a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. A spacious new vessel as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout, including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising.

88 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 172 – 269 ft² or indulge even more in one of the 6 Superior suites or 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites. Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.      

MS William Wordsworth is one of Riviera Travel’s new ‘all suite’ ships.  Launched in 2019 she offers excellent standards of accommodation consistent with Scylla’s (the ship operator) other 5 star ships. Standard Suites are large at 183 ft² with floor to ceiling windows opening to a rail on the middle and upper decks. Suites on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 172 ft² and feature high level windows. 6 Superior Suites and 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites are available on each ship at 247 ft² and 269 ft² respectively. Deluxe Balcony Suites, located on the upper deck, also feature a small private balcony. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 176 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels. An outstanding ship it would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that, a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. A spacious new vessel as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout, including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising.

• Tea & coffee making facilities

Geoffrey Chaucer is one of Riviera Travel’s new ‘all suite’ ships.  Launched in 2020 she offers excellent standards of accommodation consistent with Scylla’s (the ship operator) other 5 star ships. Standard Suites are large at 183 ft² with floor to ceiling windows opening to a rail on the middle and upper decks. Suites on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 172 ft² and feature high level windows.

6 Superior Suites and 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites are available on each ship at 247 ft² and 269 ft² respectively. Deluxe Balcony Suites, located on the upper deck, also feature a small private balcony. An outstanding ship it would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that, a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level.

A spacious new vessel as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above.

The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout, including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising.

Emily Brontë is one of Riviera Travel’s new ‘all suite’ ships.  Launched in 2017 she offers excellent standards of accommodation consistent with Scylla’s (the ship operator) other 5 star ships. Standard Suites are large at 183 ft² with floor to ceiling windows opening to a rail on the middle and upper decks. Suites on the lower deck are slightly smaller at 172 ft² and feature high level windows. 6 Superior Suites and 4 Deluxe Balcony Suites are available on each ship at 247 ft² and 269 ft² respectively. Deluxe Balcony Suites, located on the upper deck, also feature a small private balcony. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 176 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with first class service levels. An outstanding ship it would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that, a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. A spacious new vessel as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout, including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a private balcony with table and chairs and additionl fllor to ceiling windows

A – Additional no supplement solo occupancy cabins on all decks available on these dates Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of single cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement.  The price includes full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day; if you choose to travel with us on any of the full day excursions by coach, a packed lunch will be provided. Anyone choosing to stay on the ship may of course have lunch in the restaurant; morning/afternoon tea and coffee; all visits and excursions as mentioned in the brochure, airport transfers, coach travel as mentioned, travel to and from port of embarkation and the services of a Riviera Travel Tour Manager. Solo Occupancy On the lower deck there are a limited number of standard cabins available for single occupancy without a supplement.  For other cabins the sole occupancy price is twice the per person rate less £500.

Check Availabilty

Enquire now about this cruise & speak to one of our friendly river cruising team on 0800 471 4754 .

Why Choose This Cruise?

Riviera Travel’s river cruises have caused a bit of a revolution in the UK market, selling more river cruises in the UK than any other river cruise line.  A range of brand-new classically-styled ships have impressed with their high standards for the price.  Riviera’s 30 years of land-touring experience have carried into their river cruise excursions, providing good value off-ship experiences.  Whilst some may require higher levels of inclusions and finer dining, Riviera’s river cruises deliver consistently high standards for their loyal UK customers.

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Danube River Cruises

Coursing through Germany, Austria, Hungary and seven other countries all the way to the Black Sea, the Danube is the soul of Central Europe. Join us along these culture-rich banks, whose scenic vineyards, ancient monasteries and elegant cities have inspired travelers for centuries.

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A Danube River cruise unveils Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Glittering cultural capitals, lush vineyards, magnificent monasteries and endless scenic splendor line the river’s banks. Here are some sample highlights you will see with Viking:

• Enchanting Passau, set where three rivers meet
• Lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley
• The baroque splendor of Melk Abbey
• Vienna’s elegant architecture
• The splendid Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig
• Scenic beauty of the picturesque Danube Bend
• Budapest’s stunning Chain Bridge and Parliament Building
• Soaring cliffs of the scenic Iron Gate
• Romania’s rural culture and rich folklore
• Belgrade’s impressive Kalemegdan Fortress

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Danube River Cruises to the Black Sea

Our Danube to Black Sea river cruises explore the heart of Eastern Europe, visiting fascinating capitals including Belgrade and Bucharest.

Cruises along the Lower Danube also take in the dramatic Iron Gates which form a natural border between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. Some cruiselines offer exciting excursions to the UNESCO-listed Danube Delta, a haven for wildlife including coromorants.

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Danube to black sea highlights, danube to black sea river ports, cruise collection 2024/ 2025/ 2026.

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From the Hungarian capital of Budapest, the River Danube flows south through the Hungarian plains, and then turns east through Serbia and Belgrade. A cruise along the Lower Danube continues through the spectacular Iron Gates, a dramatic gorge separating the Carpathian and Balkan mountains, before reaching Bulgaria, Romania and finally the Black Sea.

During a River Danube to the Black Sea cruise through Eastern Europe, discover outstanding natural beauty and intriguing cities, rich in history. On some cruises, it is possible to visit the vast Hungarian Puszta and witness a traditional horse show, as well as explore the UNESCO-listed Danube Delta, renowned for its wildlife.

Here are a few highlights of a cruise along the Danube to the Black Sea:

• Belgrade’s remarkable Kalemegdan Fortress
• The magnificent gorges of the Iron Gates that form a natural border between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains
• The vast plains of the Hungarian Puszta
• The vine-clad slopes of Pecs
• Bratislava’s medieval old town and baroque palaces
• The Orthodox churches and graceful villas of Bucharest
• Petrovaradin Fortress in Novi Sad
• The stunning scenery and amazing wildlife of the Danube Delta

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On this incredible river cruise through the Balkans, you start by exploring the stunning sights of Kalocsa, Pecs and Belgrade with its magnificent Kalemegdan Fortress. Then it’s off to Pleven passing through the Iron Gates Gorge and the Djerdap locks before visiting Bucharest. Known as ‘little Paris’ this gem of a capital city will capture your heart with its romantic buildings and tree-lined boulevards

Then you explore the very best of The Danube Delta and enjoy a cruise through Europe’s largest area of wetlands and marshlands – a UNESCO-listed site. From here you see Constanta where you can explore it’s charming Old Town and museums, Veliko Tarnovo and the village of Arbanassi.

After taking a scenic drive to the spectacular rock formations at Belogradchik you visit Lepenski Vir – one of the most important Mesolithic archaeological sites in Serbia before travelling to Novi Sad, Osijek and Vukovar. Finally, on the final leg of this stunning river cruise you discover the imperial city of two halves – Budapest.

RIVIERA TRAVEL - BUDAPEST TO THE BLACK SEA

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Budapest (Hungary)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Europe Rivers

Local Time 2024-06-03 16:52

Port Budapest cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Budapest, Hungary. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Budapest is a Danube River cruise port in Hungary. River's most operated cruise itineraries are between Budapest and Bucharest . The longest itineraries are from Holland ( Amsterdam ), including cruising on Danube, Main and Rhine. Budapest is Hungary's main (largest) cruise port and biggest tourism industry contributor. Each year, the city attracts over 4,5 million tourists, ranking it world's 25th most popular and Europe's 6th most popular city tour destination.

Budapest is Hungary's capital and largest city (population around 1,8 million, metro over 3,3 million), as well as country's commercial, industrial and transportation hub. On November 17, 1873, it became a single city occupying both banks of Danube River and merging three cities (Obuda, Buda, Pest).

Originally a Celtic settlement, during the Roman Empire it became the capital of Lower Pannonia. In the 9th century Hungarians arrived. Their first settlement was pillaged by the Mongols in 124–242. Next dark period was the Battle of Mohacs and the following 150 year Ottoman rule. Budapest was the Austro-Hungarian Empire's second capital (together with Vienna ).

Among city's most popular tourist landmarks are Buda Castle Quarter, Heroes' Square, Millennium Underground Railway, 118 geothermal springs (world's largest thermal water cave system), Dohany Street Synagogue (aka Nagy Zsinagoga, world's 2nd largest - after Belz Great Synagogue in Jerusalem), Hungarian Parliament Building (world's 3rd largest).

On shore excursions (bus tours from Budapest/riverboat's homeport) can be also visited Slovenia's capital Ljubljana, as well as Croatia's capital Zagreb .

Budapest cruise terminal

Budapest port’s parking area has max capacity of 100 cars. The distance from the port nad the city center is approx 5 km (3 ml). The nearest airport is the Ferihegy International Airport - at approx 20-min drive distance from the cruise ship terminal.

Popular tourist attractions located near the port are the Buda Castle, old bridges (called hidak), St Stephen’s Basilica (height 96 m / 315 ft), many bathhouses with therapeutic spring water.

• Among the hotels located near the port are Corinthia Grand Hotel Royal (5-star), Hotel Rila (budget priced), Parliament Hotel, K+K Opera Hotel.
• Pop[ular restaurants located near the port are Gerbaud House, Fatal Restaurant, Karpatia Etterem.
• Pop[ular shopping centers located near the port are Folk Arts Gallery (hand-made souvenirs, wooden toys, traditional Hungarian dolls) and the Arkad shopping mall.

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Budapest - user reviews and comments

Budapest to The Black Sea River Cruise - MS Emily Brontë

Highlights and Inclusions

• Happy by day two or we'll bring you home with a full refund
• Enjoy four guided tours, including Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanassi, the Churches of Ivanovo, Belogradchik Rock and Mesolithic Lepenski Vir.
• Discover the only European capital built at the confluence of two rivers, Belgrade. 
• Explore Pleven at leisure, enjoy one of the town's many museums and wander through the tranquil Old Town.
• Visit Bucharest and explore the Palace of Parliament, the Athenaeum and the Orthodox churches and squares that 'Little Paris has to offer.
• Marvel at Belogradchik Rocks, gigantic natural sandstone sculptures that cover an area of 35 square miles.
• Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of sole occupancy cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes: 
• All meals on board (except one lunch on Day 6) - from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day - including welcome cocktails and the Captain's dinner.
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
• All visits and excursions as mentioned
• Airport transfers
• Coach travel as mentioned
• Travel to and from port of embarkation
• The services of a Riviera Travel cruise director and concierge

You fly to Budapest, where a coach transfers you to your five-star cruise ship, moored in this beautiful city. The friendly crew will welcome you on board and help you settle into your spacious, luxuriously appointed suite. The ship remains here overnight, so watch dusk descend over Hungary’s capital as you enjoy your first dinner on board.

One of the most thrilling aspects of a cruise is waking up somewhere new, and there’s a real sense of excitement as we explore lands unknown to many until the Iron Curtain lifted. Hungary itself has so much to offer; situated at a crossroads in central Europe, it’s a mesmerising blend of European and Ottoman influences, rich in culture and history. Our adventure begins this morning when we arrive in Kalocsa, a city whose 1,000-year-old lore swirls with tales of warlike bishops, saintly kings, rampaging Ottomans and Magyar heroes. Among its fine buildings you’ll discover an impressive Baroque cathedral and the grand Archbishop’s Palace, with its Ceremonial Hall displaying a replica of the Hungarian holy crown. You can choose to enjoy a walking tour of the town seeing the sights plus the fascinating Paprika Museum; the region is one of the biggest producers of the seasoning that’s an essential part of Hungarian cuisine – goulash being a famous example. There are many types and strengths of ‘red gold’, but the best variety is said to come from here, due to its rich colour and robust flavour. Alternatively we take the short drive to a paprika house on the outskirts of the town to learn more about its production before continuing on a scenic drive into the Puszta, Hungary’s Great Plain, a hauntingly atmospheric prairie whose spirit is burnt into the Magyar soul. Stretching as far as the eye can see, it is home to villages seemingly frozen in time, while Hungarian grey cattle, spiral-horned sheep and buffalo graze on its pastures. The Puszta is also famed for its horses, and we visit an equestrian farm to watch a performance by some of the region’s most skilled riders. You’ll have the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride and experience this unique wilderness from a different perspective. We return to the ship for lunch as our elegant vessel seamlessly glides away from her mooring. Later we enjoy a welcome drink with the Captain in the lounge before descending the elegant staircase to the restaurant for a special Welcome Dinner.

This morning we arrive in historic Belgrade. The only European capital built at the confluence of two rivers, the city has been fought over numerous times, most recently during the Second World War and the Kosovo War, when it faced months of NATO airstrikes. Dramatically sited overlooking both rivers is Kalemegdan Park, which includes in its grounds the city’s iconic fortress, a stronghold built by the Celts, expanded by the Romans and besieged over a hundred times during its history – all detailed in its military museum. Despite its past, Belgrade is now a revitalised and forward-looking city and a delightful and varied place to explore, with delicate Art Nouveau facades tucked away among the stark concrete towers of the Communist era. We enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights such as the cathedral, Republic Square and Prince Michael Street with its wealth of 19th-century buildings, some bearing the scars of recent conflicts among their intricate Habsburg ornamentation. After lunch, you are free to explore this fascinating capital, still one of the least visited in Europe. Maybe you’d like to wander the Old Town’s lattice of winding streets, pausing for a welcome drink in one of the grand coffee houses or visit the bubbling bohemian quarter, which is being transformed into a 21st-century cultural hub by an influx of creative talent. As the evening draws in, relax with a stroll or a drink on the Sun Deck before tonight’s culinary delights.

For many, today will be a highlight of the cruise as we begin our passage through the magnificent Iron Gates Gorge. One of the most memorable stretches of the Danube, this is where the river cuts its mighty path between the Carpathian and Balkan mountain ranges, forming part of the boundary between Serbia and Romania. The ‘true’ Iron Gates is a single narrow gorge, but the name covers an entire 83-mile stretch of valleys where towering limestone cliffs plunge into the depths below. During the 1960s and ’70s, two hydroelectric power stations were built here and their dams raised the river level by over 100 feet, submerging a number of historic settlements. We pass through the Great Kazan, meaning ‘cauldron’, where the river narrows to just 500 feet. As the Captain skilfully steers us through, you’ll see the huge sculpture of a Romanian hero – Decebalus – carved into the rock. Created in the 1990s, at over 130 feet high it is the largest rock relief in Europe – it even dwarfs the US presidents at Mount Rushmore. Decebalus was the last king of Dacia, the kingdom stretching from the Carpathians to the Black Sea. A warrior through and through, he fought the Roman Empire in three campaigns before the Emperor Trajan got the better of him. Decebalus fled into the Carpathians, taking his own life rather than being captured. On a day like this, the spacious Sun Deck comes into its own. Watch the spectacular scenery drift by from the comfort of a sun lounger or maybe enjoy a drink with new friends. You may even find an ice cream being served on the Bow Deck, which is beautifully attired with soft furnishings and stylish wooden fittings.

By now you’ll have come to appreciate the luxuries on board your five-star ship – little touches from complimentary dressing gowns and slippers to plush carpets in the corridors and the marble-topped bar. Crossing the border into Bulgaria tonight, you awake in Nikopol, a town dating back to Roman times, and after breakfast we drive across the Danubian Plain to Pleven. We enjoy some free time here, so perhaps visit the St George Chapel Mausoleum or one of the town’s many other museums. Or simply wander the Old Town and enjoy the tranquillity of its pedestrian-only streets. During lunch we slip our moorings for an afternoon’s cruising, so why not enjoy the invigorating river breeze up on the Sun Deck? It will soon be time for dinner, so reconvene with your fellow travellers for an aperitif in the bar.

Today we visit Bucharest, with its tree-lined boulevards and elegant belle-époque villas – echoes of the hedonistic 1900s when it earned the nickname ‘Little Paris’ – dotted among the utilitarian architectural legacy of Communist rule. Dominating the capital city of Romania, though, is the astonishing Palace of the Parliament, a colossal concrete extravagance commissioned by the Communist dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. Started in 1984 and still unfinished, it is the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon – so big that only 400 of the 1,100 rooms are used. Furnished with all the gaudiness expected from a heartless despot at the head of a bankrupt state, from marble staircases to mosaics and chandeliers, to some it’s a marvel, to others a monument to vanity. On our guided tour we see the Palace of the Parliament, which really has to be seen to be believed, and the city’s other main sights, such as the former royal palace – now the national art museum – and the Athenaeum with its impressive Baroque cupola and remarkable acoustics. There are also some superb Orthodox churches and squares, including Revolution Square, named after the 1989 uprising that swept away Ceausescu’s regime. There’s also time to explore this vibrant city under your own steam. Lunch isn’t included today, so seek out a cosy restaurant in the Old Town for a fortifying plate of traditional meatballs, generously spiced with garlic, dill and parsley; freshly stuffed peppers or a hearty vegetable and dumpling soup. We return to the ship with time to relax before dinner. Perhaps borrow a board game or novel from the library or book yourself in for a manicure or pedicure at the on-board Hair and Nail Salon.

Overnight we cruise towards the city of Tulcea, clinging to seven hills overlooking the river and regarded as the gateway to the vast Danube Delta on the edge of the Black Sea. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is the best preserved and second largest river delta in Europe, consisting of 2,200 square miles of rivers, marshes, tree-fringed lakes and reed islands, where nearly 3,500 animal and fish species, and 1,700 types of plant, make their home. A bird-watcher’s paradise, the maze of canals bordered by willows and oaks offers the perfect breeding ground for countless species. Millions of Egyptian white pelicans arrive here every spring to raise their young, while equal numbers of Arctic geese come to escape the harsh Northern European winters. Keep an eye out for cormorants and white-tailed eagles. This morning, we take a coach from Brăila to Tulcea, where we’ll board smaller boats and sail into the tranquil Danube Delta. Our guide helps to point out some of the fascinating flora and fauna – you could spot a colourful kingfisher or a catfish darting beneath the water’s glassy surface. As dusk begins to fall on this magical landscape, we slip our moorings again. Enjoy another delicious dinner, maybe tonight choosing a more intimate dining experience in the Bistro at the stern.

Today we begin our return passage, but these lands still have so much to reveal. Hold on to your hat up on deck, as this area is well known for its windy weather and windmills were once a common sight. Watch the rocky shoreline drift by, dotted with the occasional ruined fortress. We depart for the ancient city of Constanta, described by the Roman poet Ovid as ‘the end of the world’ and with a history dating back over 2,500 years. Originally known as Tomis, it is said that Jason landed here with the Argonauts after finding the Golden Fleece. Situated on several trade routes, it became a thriving commercial centre during Roman times and still is today. Numerous remains from Greek and Roman times are on display in the city’s archaeological and mosaics museums, the latter housing the largest – an impressive 9,150 square feet – and best-preserved Roman mosaic in the world. Constanta’s landmark is the Art Nouveau casino, with its views of the Black Sea. Now unused, it was built by the Romanian King Carol I, who hoped its construction would transform the city into a bathing resort for the elite during the inter-war years, something that never quite transpired. More recently, it became one end of the shortest navigable route between the North and Black Seas when the Main-Danube Canal opened in 1992. There is free time to explore, so perhaps visit one of the museums or simply enjoy the sea air with a portside walk.

Crossing into Bulgaria, we arrive in Rousse, a city known as ‘Little Vienna’ for its wealth of fine 19th-century buildings. A scenic drive brings us to possibly Bulgaria’s most beautiful city – Veliko Tarnovo, the ‘City of the Tsars’ and former capital, located in a rugged landscape entangled by the meanderings of the Yantra River. Its Old Town is clustered on three hills with its houses stacked on steeply sided valleys, while the remains of the once-impregnable fortress complex stands on Tsarevets Hill. Within the walls of this redoubt are the ruins of the Tsar’s Palace and, at the summit, the Patriarch’s Palace, which includes the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of God. Much of Veliko Tarnovo was destroyed by the Ottomans, but in the 19th century it became an important trading centre again. Tucked away in its picturesque cobbled streets are tiny workshops, where you can watch copper pots being beaten or wooden utensils skilfully carved. It is delightful to wander here, keeping an eye out for interesting traditional snacks to try, admiring the architecture while soaking up the atmosphere. Later we head to the village of Arbanassi, set high on a plateau. During Ottoman times, it became a commercial centre for traders and their caravans, crammed with wares bound for places as distant as Italy, Russia and even India. Perhaps visit one of the richly ornamented mansion houses of the period, with their fortress-like stone walls, or the unassuming Church of the Nativity – once inside you’ll be dazzled by the intensely coloured frescoes. We end the day with a visit to the Churches of Ivanovo, a fascinating complex of churches, chapels and monasteries hewn into the solid rock during the 12th century and with frescoes dating back to the 14th century, so exquisite and historically significant they are now on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

This morning why not take a cup of coffee up on deck and soak up the spectacular open spaces of this landscape, where thick woods of fragrant pine and silver fir cling to the banks, forming a hazy outline on the distant horizon? After lunch we moor in Vidin, home to the Baba Vidin, the only entirely preserved medieval fortress in the country. From here, we drive into this rugged wilderness and suddenly the horizon is dotted with huge sandstone cliffs, in a spectrum of orange-reds and yellows, eroded into huge, bizarre shapes. These are the Belogradchik Rocks – unique and dramatic, they cover an area of 35 square miles, some reaching as high as 600 feet. Many of these gigantic natural sculptures are named after people or objects they are thought to resemble, while others are associated with colourful legends. We return to the ship for dinner. Later on, maybe enjoy a drink in the lounge with your companions while the resident pianist plays gentle melodies.

This morning’s cruising brings us once again to the dramatic splendour of the Iron Gates Gorge, at the heart of Serbia’s Djerdap National Park. The gorge was cut out of the Carpathian mountains over millions of years as the Danube drained the Pannonian Sea. Among the park’s forests of ancient oak, hazel and beech lies a rich preserve of game, including deer and wild boar. Mountain goats roam the rocky cliffs of Djerdap Kazan, while bears, wolves, foxes and wildcats populate the dense woodland. Keep an eye out for eagles and falcons, too. Why not enjoy the splendour of this stretch of the river from a sun lounger on deck or through the panoramic windows in the ship’s lounge? This afternoon we moor in Donji Milanovac and take the short drive to Lepenski Vir, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, dating back to 9,500 BC. It consists of a series of Mesolithic villages located on a high terrace overlooking the Danube. The wooden houses were laid out in a fan shape and used one of the first types of concrete as their foundations, while their floors were made of sandstone, often covered with limestone plaster and decorated with red and white pigments. Our guided tour will reveal more about this fascinating place and how these ancient people lived. The Captain’s Dinner is served this evening, with a superb menu reflecting the countries and regions we have visited. As the sun sets on this memorable city, retire to the bar with your fellow travellers to reflect on all you have seen during this exceptional cruise.

The numerous fortresses along the Danube are reminders that the area has been fought over for centuries and this morning we pass one of the most impressive – the medieval Smederevo Fortress. After a lazy day we moor in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, in the shadow of the Fruska Gora mountain, its fertile slopes terraced with vineyards. The climate and the proximity to the Danube make this region ideal for wine production, particularly Riesling, but there are many others produced here including Bermet, a vermouth-like dessert wine with a unique aromatic sweetness. Enjoy a guided tour of this vibrant city which flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming known as the ‘Athens of Serbia’. See its old Town Hall on the impressive main square, flanked by lovely 19th-century architecture, its ancient castle and synagogue. Towering over it all is the mighty Petrovaradin Fortress with its complex system of underground tunnels. The minute and hour hands of its iconic clock face are reversed, supposedly so that fishermen could still tell the time at a distance. You can learn more about the fortress and its history at its museum. We moor here this evening, so why not enjoy an after-dinner stroll and take in the relaxed ambience of this lovely city?

Today we cross into Croatia and stop in Vukovar, the country’s largest river port, located at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers. Vukovar boasted a prosperous manufacturing industry and a picturesque Baroque centre until the tragic events of the civil war unfolded, and the city was almost completely destroyed. Renovation to restore the city to its former glory is very much ongoing. Here we enjoy a guided tour, seeing the main sights and learning about the city’s tumultuous past. We then drive to the historic city of Osijek, which hugs the banks of the River Drava. We explore the Old Town – behind its thick stone walls lies an intriguing market square, lined by handsome public buildings with pastel-coloured facades. In the Upper City you’ll see the neo-Gothic cathedral, its red-brick spire soaring above the rooftops. Much of Osijek has been restored, but some buildings still bear the scars of the fighting. This evening we cross into Hungary again, as the chef presents tonight’s appetising menu.

As gentle pastoral landscapes slip by, Budapest’s brooding skyline comes into view once more. Straddling the Danube, this imperial capital is a collage of palatial buildings, grand domes and attractive Baroque churches with soaring spires. From Roman ruins to Ottoman Turkish baths and elegant Art Nouveau facades, the eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the city’s varied history, with numerous foreign powers ruling here over the centuries. We enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights of this lovely city including the iconic Parliament Building, the National Gallery with its huge collection of Hungarian masterpieces, and the Matthias Church with its intricate rose windows. The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps head back to the Castle District to take in the panoramic views or explore one of the city’s many museums and galleries.

Today at the appropriate time you return to the airport for your return flight.

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6 Regions Around the World Best Seen on a River Cruise

River cruising has experienced phenomenal growth over the past two decades in part because it’s a more convenient alternative to land-based bus tours. Your home-away-from-home moves with you over the course of a week or longer, meaning you unpack only once while exploring a variety of exciting cities and enchanting small towns. You’ll also enjoy superb onboard cuisine and get to know your fellow cruisers. Of course, this is only possible where rivers flow and cruise lines sail, so here’s a look at six regions around the world best seen on a river cruise.

Cambodia & Vietnam

Flowing for almost 3,000 miles through Southeast Asia, the mighty Mekong is a living mosaic of century-spanning sights, from lavish palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Site temples to ramshackle villages and surreally green rice paddies. Most Mekong River cruises sail between Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August to April, since low river levels and hot weather make May to July difficult for travel.

Highlights of these cruises, which range from seven to 13 nights, include the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, with its Silver Pagoda and sobering genocide museum detailing the “Killing Fields” era of the 1970s Pol Pot regime. Cambodia’s more mystical destination is Angkor Wat, the superbly carved stone temple complex outside of Siem Reap built as early as the 9th century. 

In Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s largest city, sometimes still referred to as Saigon, is a mix of French-colonial architecture, Parisian-style boulevards, stunning pagodas, and modern skyscrapers. Smaller villages along the Mekong’s Vietnamese side offer a look at the daily life of farmers, fishermen, and handicraft makers, complete with floating markets and rickshaws.

Which river lines cruise Cambodia & Vietnam?

AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Uniworld, and Viking.

The allure of cruising the Nile River to see the temples of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel in southern Egypt is undeniable. Add on a few nights in Cairo to visit the Pyramids of Giza and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum before or after your seven-night cruise and it’s a truly bucket-list trip for anyone fascinated by ancient history.

There are just a handful of primary ports on most Nile River cruises. After arriving in Cairo, you’ll fly to Luxor to board your ship, which will be notably smaller than those sailing the major rivers of Europe. From Luxor, you’ll visit the riverfront temples of Karnak and Luxor and delve into the lore of King Tut and Queen Hatshepsut. More ancient treasures wait in Edfu and Qena. In Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, you’ll gaze out on mesmerizing desert landscapes that frame lush mid-river islands, visit the two-mile-wide Aswan High Dam, or enjoy an Abu Simbal excursion to see the two massive rock-cut temples.

Which river lines cruise Egypt?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld, and Viking.

Cruising the Amazon River is an altogether unique experience, more wildlife safari and rainforest immersion than history lesson. While small luxury cruise ships can explore the river’s larger sections from the Atlantic Ocean to Manaus, Brazil, it’s the Peruvian Amazon that takes center stage for luxury river cruises lasting three, four, or seven nights. Here, on meandering tributaries, these vessels, typically accommodating no more than 30 to 40 guests, get into the heart of the Amazon from the city of Iquitos.

Each day is an adventure as you explore with a guide in a motorized skiff. You’ll spy on monkeys and sloths in the treetops and watch pink-hued river dolphins swim through the greenish-brown water. Hiking along verdant trails, you’ll spot tiny poisonous tree frogs and later enjoy a Champagne toast amid a picturesque quilt of water lilies at sunset. You may also fish for carnivorous piranha by day and search for giant anacondas after dark. 

Which river lines cruise The Amazon?

Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Lindblad Expeditions, and Uniworld.

The Mississippi

If cruising closer to home appeals, it doesn’t get any closer than this. The Mississippi River , which winds its way for 2,340 miles through 10 states, from Louisiana in the south to Minnesota in the north, is a terrific option that will immerse you in the history, music, food, and architecture of America’s Heartland. 

Some vessels are sleek river ships while others are retro-inspired paddle wheelers. If you have 15 days, you can cruise the river’s entire length, from New Orleans to St. Paul (or vice versa). You can also opt for a Lower Mississippi or Upper Mississippi sailing that lasts seven to nine days. With the former, you can do a New Orleans roundtrip and visit historic cities in Mississippi and Louisiana that include Natchez, Vicksburg, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville, or add on Memphis, Tennessee, with a one-way itinerary to or from New Orleans. On an Upper Mississippi sailing, you’ll start in either St. Louis or St. Paul and visit riverfront cities such as Hannibal, Missouri; Davenport, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Red Wing, Minnesota. Which section you choose will dictate when you go, since Upper Mississippi and Full Mississippi sailings are only offered from June to October while Lower Mississippi itineraries are year-round.

Which river lines cruise the Mississippi?

American Cruise Lines and Viking.

Central Europe

No other region is home to as many navigable rivers and must-see historic cities, from Amsterdam, Antwerp, Vienna, and Cologne in the north to Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Porto in the west. In Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Portugal rivers connect these vibrant cities with dozens of smaller towns featuring landmark castles, lavish cathedrals, and charming old towns. 

Central Europe’s top rivers include the Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Douro, and Danube. Dozens of cruise itineraries along these waterways immerse you in history, culinary traditions, wine-making, art, architecture, and natural beauty. Picture a living mosaic of tulips in April along the waterways of Belgium and Holland or gliding past the terraced vineyards of Portugal’s Douro Valley during the grape harvest in September. Mix history and art as you explore rogue papacies, Roman amphitheaters, and French wine along the Rhone in the South of France or tour the palaces and cathedrals of the Austro-Hungarian Empire on the Danube.

What can you expect on each river? Here’s an intro:

The  Danube , which flows through 10 countries from southern Germany to the Black Sea, is ideal for anyone with an interest in history, art, and architecture. On an Upper Danube itinerary, you’ll  visit capital cities  Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava (Slovakia), as well as smaller Austrian cities and towns like Linz, Durnstein, and Melk. Day trips to lofty Salzburg or the picturesque Czech town of Cesky Krumlov are also possible. Most cruises begin or end in the Bavaria region of Germany, so a stay in Munich can cap off the trip.

The  Rhine , which begins in the Swiss Alps and runs to the North Sea near Rotterdam, offers views of storybook castles and vineyards set against a backdrop that is among the most stunning in river cruising. Cities on a Rhine itinerary can include Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France; Cologne, Germany; and Amsterdam. In between are wine-making hamlets such as Rüdesheim am Rhein and Bamberg in Germany, plus scenic Kinderdijk in the Netherlands, home to centuries-old windmills.

The  Rhone , which meanders from food-centric Lyon all the way to the Mediterranean in the South of France, is chock full of delights. These include the Roman arena and medieval streets of Arles (also famous as the setting for some of Vincent Van Gogh’s most notable paintings), the papal intrigue of Avignon, the wine-making excellence around Tournon-sur-Rhône, and the truffle treasures of Viviers. 

The  Seine , which flows north through Paris to the English Channel, is equally intriguing, especially to history buffs and art lovers. On these cruises, you can explore the museums and landmarks of the French capital, wander Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny, and see buildings and landscapes painted by Van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise (where he’s also buried). You can also walk the medieval streets of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake and Monet painted the Gothic cathedral, before visiting Honfleur, a seaside hamlet favored by Impressionists, as well as the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetery, resting place of 9,387 fallen soldiers.

The  Dordogne and Garonne rivers , located in the Bordeaux wine-making region of France, offer a heady immersion for oenophiles — from the historic bustle of the city of Bordeaux to the bucolic ambiance of wine-making hamlets such as St.-Emilion, Pauillac, and Cadillac.

The  Douro River  in northern Portugal is another mecca for  wine lovers . Riverboats cruise from atmospheric Porto, home to historic port wine cellars, to small towns such as Pinhão and Régua, set amid pastoral hillside vineyards.

Central Europe also has two lesser-known rivers. The  Elbe River  flows through the former East Germany and offers access to Berlin, Potsdam, and Dresden, as well as nearby Prague in the Czech Republic. The waterways of  Holland and Belgium  attract garden lovers each spring with millions of tulips, historic windmills, and the chocolate and beer abundant in Belgian cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges.

Which river lines cruise Central Europe?

Check out AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Riverside, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

Eastern Europe

While exploring Central Europe is more popular, Eastern Europe has plenty to offer in the way of lesser-known but history-rich countries like Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. The Danube River passes through all six and Lower Danube itineraries generally begin in Budapest, Hungary, and end in Bucharest, Romania (or vice versa). 

Here’s what you’ll see along the way:

In Hungary, the contrast between the stately architecture of Budapest and the port of Kalocsa couldn’t be greater. Known for paprika production and embroidered handicrafts, this city and its surrounding countryside are also the place to experience cowboy culture (the energetic but touristy Puszta Horse Show is a popular excursion) and the Hajós-Baja wine region (Hungarian wines are quite good, so wine-tasting is a commendable option).

Croatia, which most people know for its historic ports on the Adriatic coast, also has a port on the Danube. Vukovar is the gateway to Osijek, located about 45 minutes away. Both cities were heavily damaged during the Balkan wars of the 1990s, but many buildings in Osijek’s historic Baroque center were spared or have been restored. Here you can visit the Church of St. Peter and Paul with its 295-foot steeple and pedestrian-only Holy Trinity Square in the Old Town known as Tvrda.

Belgrade, the former capital of Yugoslavia and current capital of Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities. Its architecture ranges from charming 17th-century buildings set on the cobblestone streets of Old Town (a short stroll from the port) to dour Communist block structures. Don’t miss the Belgrade Fortress (it was destroyed 40 times, and what remains is mainly from the Ottoman period), the Nikola Tesla Museum, and the massive Church of Saint Sava with its lavish gilded crypt. 

Bulgaria may offer up the most surprises. One of the region’s least wealthy countries, it is full of scenic beauty and unique sights. River ships call on Vidin, home to Fortress Bab Vida, for excursions to the striking, red-hued Belogradchick Rocks. You’ll also call on Ruse for an all-day scenic excursion to Veliko Tarnovo, a medieval town and fortress built into the cliffs of the Yantra River. Back on the Danube, you’ll marvel at the Iron Gates, a series of gorges that are one of Europe’s natural wonders, as you cruise through them.

You’ll board or disembark your cruise about an hour outside of the Romanian capital. Bucharest is a city of contrasts, known as the “Paris of the East” for its stately boulevards (it even has an Arc de Triomphe). It's also home to the massive Palace of the Parliament, built by notorious mid-20th-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. Many cruisers also add on pre- or post-cruise tour to the historic towns and castles of nearby Transylvania.

Which river lines cruise Eastern Europe?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

Walking the Camino de Santiago Is a Bucket List Item for Many Retirees: Here Are 6 Questions To Ask Before You Commit

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Passage to Eastern Europe

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Sail to lands rich in traditions

See Bucharest’s 3,000-room Palace of Parliament. Make banitsa bread with a home cook in Vidin. Explore Belgrade’s Ottoman and European treasures, including the 6th-century Kalemegdan Fortress. View the Danube’s towering Iron Gate. Witness Hungary’s daredevil Puszta horsemen. Behold Budapest’s grandeur. Once hidden behind the Iron Curtain, the eastern Danube still has secrets to reveal on this enriching cruisetour.

SUMMER SOLSTICE SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Vienna

From $899 | 3 Nights

Pre: Budapest

From $599 | 2 Nights

Pre: Prague

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Travelzoo  Second Guest Sails Free

Now available on select 2024 Central Europe, France and Portugal River Cruises*

Secure your Truly All-Inclusive Ultra-Luxury River Cruise and Save up to $8,756 per couple

Great stories come from unforgettable moments. Now creating new ones is more attainable than ever during our limited Travelzoo Sale with Scenic. Second Guest Sails Free with this special promotion across select sailings on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers and the rivers of France and Portugal. Set sail from just $3,120 per person or if you are a solo traveller, pay No Single Supplement fee*. Don't delay, this special promotion is strictly limited and will sell out fast. Call 1-844-200-2150, or contact your travel professional. Book by June 10, 2024 and reserve with code TVLZOO2NDFREE.

 Featured Central Europe Journeys

Jewels of Europe

River Cruise: STC

June 24 & 26, July 8, 10, 22 & 24, October 23≤ & 28≤, November 7≤ & 11, 2024

≤ Cruise operates in reverse.

Gems of the Danube

River Cruise: NBU

July 18≤ & 25, August 1≤ & 8, October 27, 2024

Gems of the Danube with Prague

River Cruise & Tour: PNB

July 18≤ & 22, August 1≤ & 5, October 24, 2024

Danube in Depth

River Cruise: GHNB

October 11, 2024

Black Sea Explorer with Bucharest

River Cruise & Tour: BUBU

June 2, 6≤ & 12, 2024

Black Sea Explorer with Bucharest & Budapest

River Cruise & Tour: BUBC

June 2, 4≤ & 12, 2024

Rhine Highlights

River Cruise: AMBC

June 5 & 12≤, July 31, 2024

Romantic Rhine & Moselle

River Cruise: AMBA

July 22≤, August 5≤≥, 7 & 19, 2024

≤ / ≥ Cruise operates in both directions. ≤ Cruise operates in reverse.

Danube Christmas Markets

River Cruise: XNBU

November 22, 2024

Featured France and Portugal Journeys

Beautiful Bordeaux

River Cruise: BOD

June 8 & 25, July 5 & 15, August 8, September 4 & 14, October 18, 2024

Bordeaux Affair

River Cruise: BORD

August 1 & 28, October 11,  2024

Idyllic Rhône

River Cruise: FCCC

June 8, July 15≤ & 22,  August 28≤, September 4, 2024

Spectacular South of France

River Cruise: FRAC

June 15 & 25, July 5 & 29, August 8 & 18, October 11 & 21, 2024

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

River Cruise: SEI

June 28, July 15 & 25, August 18, 2024

Highlights of Normandy & the Seine

River Cruise: SENE

August 4 & 11, 2024

Delightful Douro

River Cruise: DOUS

November 17 & 24, 2024

Unforgettable Douro

River Cruise: DOUR

June 8, November 7, 2024

Margins and Justified Text Example

Terms and conditions: *All prices advertised are in CAD dollars based on double occupancy and include all advertised discount savings including early payment discounts. Port charges and taxes are included in the price. Valid for new bookings only on select 2024 Europe River Cruises made between May 22 and June 10, 2024. Applicable to any available cabin on included sailings, except BS Single Suite. A non–refundable initial deposit of $500 per person is required at time of booking and must quote offer code TVLZOO2NDFREE when booking for both the Second Guest Sails Free offer and the No Single Supplement offer. Full payment is due within 7 days of booking. Strictly no retroactivity to existing bookings including engaging the Deposit Protection Plan or Flexible Booking Policy on an existing booking to avail these offers. When paying full fare for the first guest, receive the second guest fare free. Both guests must be in the same cabin for offer to be applicable. Savings are based on the cruise + upgrade element only, excludes airfare, port charges, land extensions, hotel stays or any other additional items. No Single Supplement Offer: Discount is fifty percent off room cost. Guest will still pay port charges, air/air taxes, and land (including any single supplements on land) as usual. Offer strictly not combinable with any other offer or promotion including Super Earlybird/Earlybird, regular solo offers, F&F offers and groups offers. Offer is combinable only with Scenic Club loyalty voucher. All offers are inventory controlled, strictly capacity limited, may be extended, cancelled, or withdrawn at any time without notice, and subject to availability until sold out. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please call your Professional Travel Advisor or Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Reservations. Scenic reserve the right to not honour any published prices that we determine were erroneous due to printing, electronic or clerical error. Very small number of rare, fine & vintage wines, champagnes and spirits not included. Airport transfers are only available on the first and last day of your tour and at times we designate. Salt Therapy Lounges and e-bikes not available on all ships. For full booking terms and conditions refer to the 2024 Scenic Europe River Cruising brochure available at scenic.ca/brochures or view here. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours - A division of ST Touring Canada Ltd. Office: 19th Floor, 401 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5A1. Consumer Protection BC #40178.

• Europe River Cruising 2024
• Europe River Cruising 2025
• Your Guide to Europe River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Don't delay, this special promotion is strictly limited and will sell out fast.

Call 1-844-200-2150 , or contact your travel professional.

Book by June 10, 2024 and reserve with code TVLZOO2NDFREE.

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Our luxurious Scenic Space-Ships have been purpose-built for Europe’s waterways and get you closer to shore to create a real sense of immersion. Let time stand still as you discover the limitless wonders of Europe and enjoy a premium all-inclusive experience.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Our innovative ships feature an abundance of luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas, along with spacious suites. Low guest numbers of only up to 163 guests provide an intimate experience. These sleek ships are also able to dock in the heart of towns, so you can enjoy more time to explore.

Luxurious Suites

Each suite offers you the luxury of personal space. Our generously-sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites* feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways. 

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, a relaxed café setting or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood. Premium international beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of each region prepared by our innovative chefs. 

Scenic Freechoice

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on curated excursions throughout Europe. Scenic’s extensive and diverse list of Freechoice excursions offer an Active, Moderate or Relaxed pace so you can choose activities best suited to you based on your passions. Whether it’s a guided hike up beautiful Buda Hill or delectable wine tastings in the French town of Châteauneuf du Pape, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our Scenic Enrich experiences are exclusive to Scenic guests and place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller, from a classical concert at the opulent Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna to after hours access at Bassins de Lumières, a former submarine base turned immersive digital art installation. These carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey. 

Salt Therapy Lounge

Scenic is the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board its Scenic Space-Ships cruising Europe’s waterways. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, the Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system.

^Spa treatments are an additional cost. 

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