Enchantment of Eastern Europe & Budapest

Welcome to the “Paris of the East”. The center of Bucharest perfectly encapsulates a distinctive Parisian atmosphere, with wide avenues adorned by famous landmarks and quaint leafy boulevards that cross the city. Upon arrival in Bucharest, transfer to a centrally located for a one-night stay in Bucharest.

Join a locally guided driving tour to learn about some of Bucharest’s most iconic highlights during around the city, including the elegant exterior of the Spring Palace.

After this insightful tour and some time at leisure, transfer from Bucharest to Giurgiu, on the banks of the Danube, and board Emerald Waterways Star-Ship, Emerald Star.

Today, explore the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire on a locally guided tour and learn about the Bulgarian history of this ancient city that was strategically positioned to overlook the surrounding area. Be sure to take the opportunity to traverse its cobbled streets and witness its medieval fortifications.

Afterward, visit neighboring Arbanasi, situated overlooking the Yantra, a tributary of the Danube that is known for its many scenic gorges. Listen to the guide and be transported back in time as we learn about traditional houses and ancient churches.

For those wanting a more active option, embark on a guided hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, known for its famous 14th-century frescoes.

Tonight, enjoy a welcome reception and dinner.

Viticulture forms the heart of life in the most western town in Bulgaria, where sun-kissed vineyards pepper the banks of the Danube and the region has prospered from winemaking for generations. Learn about the side of life revolving around wine in Vidin while weaving through a local vineyard and learning about their products. Afterwards, enjoy a wine tasting. Next, join a local guide in Baba Vida, a fortress that was originally constructed at the turn of the 10th century; known for being one of only a handful of beautifully preserved castles in the country.

For a more active option, take a guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress, located on the northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains. It’s easy to imagine how this stronghold would have offered the Romans a perfect lookout point.

This morning, relax onboard and admire the surroundings as the ship sails along the mighty Danube to Donji Milanovac, where a visit to the Lepenski Vir archaeological site, one of Europe’s best-hidden gems, awaits. Located right on the riverbanks, the Palaeolithic site is one of the most important of its kind on the continent, effortlessly capturing more than 8 millennia of history. Archaeologists from around the world have used this site to learn about several different Stone Age settlements and the way that prehistoric cultures moved across Europe.

Explore Serbia’s vibrant capital today with a locally guided coach tour. Journey through the heart of the city and highlight its many landmarks and the iconic Belgrade Fortress. As the coach passes through the center, see glimpses of Serbia’s turbulent recent past, set amongst now quiet and peaceful streets. Witness the ornate beauty of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest religious buildings in Europe, before stopping for a tour of the Museum of Yugoslavia.
 
Alternatively, join a guided bike tour to learn about Belgrade’s history on two wheels.

This evening, please join others in the Horizon Lounge to watch a traditional Serbian folklore show.

Today, explore one of Croatia’s postcard-worthy historic university towns, full of delightful waterfront promenades and quaint cobbled streets. While walking around the city, pay attention to the damage from the Homeland War that is still visible today and reflect on the turbulent times in this peaceful area.

Embark on a guided walk around Osijek Fortress, a true icon in the romantic old town. This traditional star fort houses several different buildings, including a military hospital and armories, making it perfect for times of conflict. As a highlight today, dine on traditional cuisine with a local Croatian family and meet some students from a local village.

Enjoy an evening of sailing further up the Danube towards Hungary, before the farewell dinner.

In the morning, the ship will sail away from Osijek and on to Kalocsa, a place known for its paprika production and colorful festivals. Discovering Hungary’s culture is an easy task in Kalocsa, where traditional folk art can be found around every corner and old traditions pave the way for daily life.

Later, venture to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, to visit a traditional Puszta horse farm. After learning about the traditional performances of the Magyar cowboys, witness first-hand some of their exceptional equestrian skills, as they perform their horse parade and showcase some of their memorable exercise drills.

After breakfast, leave the lush surrounds of the Emerald Dawn and transfer to Budapest, for a two-night stay that is certain to delight. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided tour of the city, touching on its two distinctive faces and the ornamented Buda Castle District.

Today, the storied capital of Budapest is free to explore at leisure. Consider crossing the Chain Bridge to see how the city differs in Buda and Pest or make a stop and try some delightful Hungarian treats.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport.