Embark on a 9-day river cruise aboard the Emerald Star. Sail the Danube through five Eastern European countries, each offering distinct cultural experiences. In Kalocsa, witness a traditional Puszta horse show. In Osijek, share lunch with a local Croatian family. Explore Belgrade on a guided city tour, followed by a Serbian folklore performance on board. Sample Romanian wines and enjoy a choir concert in Arbanasi. Travel by road to Bucharest, discovering its historic charm. This immersive itinerary combines guided tours, authentic local encounters, cultural performances, and regional flavors for a deeper understanding of Eastern Europe’s heritage and traditions.
Highlights
Discover Kalocsa with a traditional Puszta equestrian heritage performance
Experience Budapest with an authentic Hungarian folklore show on board
Explore Belgrade on a guided city tour and enjoy a Serbian folklore show
Taste Vidin wines at a local vineyard and explore Baba Vida Fortress
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
Welcome to Budapest, meet at the airport and transfer to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where the captain and crew will warmly welcome you. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Eastern Europe’s vibrant capital at your own pace. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Danube,’ the city offers striking views, with illuminated stone bridges spanning the majestic river and linking its two historic sides. This evening, experience an authentic Hungarian folklore performance on board, followed by a traditional dinner.
EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
Please book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.
This morning, arrive in Kalocsa, renowned for its colorful paprika festivals. Travel to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, for a traditional performance highlighting the remarkable horsemanship of the Magyar cowboys. Enjoy the impressive horse parade and witness their skillful riding demonstrations. This evening, unwind and connect with fellow guests during the welcome dinner and reception.
This morning, learn more about Croatia and the daily life of locals. EmeraldPLUS excursion will bring you to the home of a Croatian family to share a typical meal from the area while getting to know the local culture and customs.
EmeraldPLUS
Home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family
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Vucedol Culture Museum (extra expense)
The capital of Serbia awaits you today, as a city tour introduces you to the highlights of one of Europe’s oldest cities. Relax as your coach takes you through the center of this peaceful city and witness the symmetrical facade of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the world’s largest church buildings. Stop for a tour of the Museum of Yugoslavia or learn about the history of Belgrade during a guided bike tour of the city.
This evening, relax in the Horizon Lounge with a traditional Serbian folklore show providing spectacular entertainment.
Included Excursion
Highlights of Belgrade
EmeraldPLUS
Serbian folklore evening show on board
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Belgrade
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Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense)
In eastern Serbia, within the Majdanpek municipality, the town of Donji Milanovac sits on the right bank of the Danube. Today, you can have the opportunity to visit the Palaeolithic site of Lepenski Vir on an included excursion. Enjoy learning about the importance of this archaeological site and its illustrious history, spanning more than 8 millennia. The day ends as you sail through the Iron Gates, a picturesque narrow gorge that meanders between the Carpathian Mountains and the European Alps.
Included Excursion
Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum
This morning, arrive in Vidin, a beautiful town in north-west Bulgaria, renowned for its wine production. Your included tour will introduce you to the best of Vidin’s viticulture, as you stroll through a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting session of their produce.
Later, venture to Baba Vida, a medieval fortress whose name can be translated to mean ‘Granny Vida’. Alternatively, hike to Belogradchik Fortress, a well-preserved stronghold that sits against a series of impressive rock formations.
Included Excursion
Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress
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Traditional Bulgarian pastry making (extra expense)
Today, your Star-Ship will cruise into Rousse, where you can have the opportunity to explore the timeless charm of its elegant architecture and cultural heritage of the city that many call “The Little Vienna”.
Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of churches, chapels, and monasteries. Tonight, your crew will welcome you on board for a farewell dinner.
Included Excursion
Walking tour of Rousse
EmeraldPLUS
Choir performance
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Ivanovo Church
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Full day tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi (extra expense)
This morning, relax and enjoy the passing scenery as you drive towards Bucharest, including the Romanian city of Giurgiu, set amongst the mud flats and marshes of the Danube. Visit the Spring Palace and the private residence of Nicolae Ceausescu, before enjoying free time to explore the city at leisure. Learn about Bucharest’s vibrant history on a guided coach tour, passing by the Palace of Parliament.
This evening, settle into the comfortable surrounds of your hotel before you consider going for a stroll down one of the wide avenues or leafy boulevards that give Bucharest a distinctly French feel.
Included Excursion
Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace
Day 9: Bucharest | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Great Hungarian Plain and medieval fortresses with you.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to the terms and conditions for further information.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$9,590
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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Single Stateroom (ES)
Single Occupancy Only. 117 sq ft. 2 single cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a deluxe single bed, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
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Stateroom (E)
162 sq ft. 9 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
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Stateroom (D)
162 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
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Panorama Balcony Suite (C)
180 sq ft. 19 cabins located on the Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
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Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite - 18 cabins located at Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
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Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
180 sq ft. 23 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
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Grand Balcony Suite (S)
210 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, in-suite mini-bar available at own expense, a complimentary Nespresso machine and bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes, and slippers
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Owner's Suite (SA)
315 sq ft. 4 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin beds, an outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, a separate bathroom and lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe, an in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer, and soft drinks
Notes
Single accommodations are available on some tours for an additional single supplement rate. Contact us for details of pricing and availability.
The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
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