Board the Crystal Ravel to join this 8-day cruise on the Danube. Explore the treasures of southeastern Europe as you cruise from Giurgiu, Romania to Budapest, Hungary. Along the way, tour the eclectic city of Vidin, and get a taste of the nightlife of Belgrade. In Novi Sad, explore the city and its parks while immersing yourself in the local culture. Cruise through the Iron Gates Gorge, whose towering cliffs and massive sculptures are sure to impress. Learn about traditional Hungarian customs and culture in Mohacs, from legendary horsemanship to the distinctive cuisine. Your journey concludes in Budapest, Hungary's captivating capital city.
Highlights
Explore the ancient city of Vidin and its mix of architectural styles
Tour Belgrade, one of Europe’s premier nightlife destinations
Visit Novi Sad, a university town known as a hotspot for culture
Discover the Castle Eltz and Vucedol Culture Museum at Vukvar
Involves minimal physical effort and is typically associated with leisurely activities. Activities are low-intensity or last less than a few hours each day.
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.
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.
Notes
Solo Supplement: A select number of cabins are available for single use. The single supplement varies by cabin type, please contact us for details. Child Discount: Children age 11 or under receive 50% off when sharing a cabin with two full paying guests. Children, regardless of age pay full rate in a double occupancy cabin.
Initial deposit is 30%, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Bank transfer, check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
Kate was great to work with in the planning stage. She was prompt, helpful, and efficient. Our tour guide, Edwin, was knowledgeable and passionate. We were very happy to have traveled with Adventure Life, it made the trip easy and a true pleasure. We could concentrate on enjoying the experience rather than the details of travel.
Lisa Bridge
TrustScore 4.8 | 169 reviews
TrustScore 4.8 of 5
Based on 169 reviews on
32 minutes ago
Friendly and professional interactions. Answered my questions and followed up on initial contact.
Tim Elliott
1 day ago
Adventure Life has been an extraordinary travel resource for us over the years and today was no exception. Our River Cruise booking was handled by Jess (who has been our personal trip planner for several years) the same day as our inquiry. Suggestions were given for cabin choice and pre-trip options (that were not shown on the cruise line's website) like airport transfers and prepaid gratuities. Trip insurance recommendations followed and we were assigned a travel co-ordinator till the end of the tour. All we have to do is show up! Great service from friendly folks.
APtravelwell
2 days ago
My representative Kevin was very responsive generally and in crafting our itinerary to our specific priorities.
Rocco Labella
2 days ago
Although there was a lot of paper work, I received help and guidance when I needed it.
Donna Kirby
3 days ago
Our travel was flawless! The rider pickup (airport, hotel, ship) was seamless. Jane's recommendation for Emerald Cruise Sakara was everything I wanted but the experience was soooo much more. Adventure Life took care of each and every detail and this was the easiest of all my travels.