Treasures Of Southeast Europe: Giurgiu to Budapest

About 40 miles south of Bucharest is the centuries-old city of Giurgiu. Steeped in history, this Romanian port city is situated on the left bank of the Danube amid a landscape of marshes and mudflats. Directly across the river is the Bulgarian city of Ruse. Both cities are connected by the impressive Danube Bridge. Noteworthy sites are the 72-foot, 18th-century Clock Tower, a reminder of Giurgiu's Ottoman history and the Giurgiu County Museum, housing a splendid collection of artifacts. Explore the city before boarding your ship and setting off on your journey. 

Nestled on a bend of the Danube in northwestern Bulgaria, the ancient city of Vidin is home to an eclectic mix of architectural styles reflecting its rich history. This hub of agriculture and trade sits atop a 3rd-century BC Celtic settlement that eventually became part of the Roman and Ottoman empires. Among its attractions is the 17th-century St. Panteleimon Church, home to magnificent frescoes and the Baba Vida Fortress overlooking the Danube. It's the largest fully preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria. 

Today, cruise Iron Gate Gorge, famed for its towering cliffs and carving of Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, who fought the Roman Empire to keep his country (whose land corresponds to Romania today) independent. 

A long and layered heritage is on display here, with architecture ranging from Byzantine and Ottoman to Art Nouveau and Modernist. While burnished with the patina of high culture, it’s also one of Europe’s premier nightlife destinations. The lively atmosphere continues into daylight hours, as visitors and locals alike bustle through Knez Mihailova, a pedestrian boulevard named one of the world’s top shopping thoroughfares.

An oasis of greenery, Serbia's largest city is home to Danube Park, a picture of European charm with its pristine lake, lovely fountain and graceful swans - the perfect place to relax before or after exploring the city. The monumental Petrovaradin Fortress across the river dominates the skyline and hosts an observatory that delivers panoramic views. A university town, Novi Sad is known as a hotspot for culture and learning but also for celebrations and socializing.

Today, explore Ilok and head towards Vukovar.

Streets lined with elegant mansions, art galleries and museums are difficult to envision today, as the siege of 1991 – when Croatian civilians faced off with a heavily armed Serbian army – dramatically altered this once-pretty town. Vukovar’s story is heartbreaking yet inspirational, and while scars still show on buildings, the Castle Eltz and Vucedol Culture Museum are returning the city’s cultural sheen.

Tales of history here are often bookended by two events—the Battle of Mohács of 1526 and the Battle of Mohács of 1687. Beyond the memorials, museums and authentic reenactments of these milestones, there is a unique playfulness here. Experience the vast grasslands, as well as Hungary’s other renowned features: paprika and horses. Hungarian equestrians have a tradition of taming the wild horses of the Great Plain and are proud to display great feats of horsemanship. 

Commanding both sides of the Danube – with the Chain Bridge connecting hilly Buda with flat Pest. Hungary’s capital enchants with its magnificent architecture of domes and spires, 18th-century homes, bridges and lampposts. The UNESCO-listed Castle Hill welcomes all to explore Buda Castle, Trinity Square, Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion.