Suzanna Travels

Riverside beauty and a vibrant cultural scene blend together in Budapest to form one of Europe’s most rewarding cities. Hungary’s enchanting capital straddles the banks of the Danube, with traditional hillside Buda on one side and modern Pest on the other. By day, stunning art nouveau buildings, stalwart castles and grand palaces set the stage for inspiring strolls and long soaks in thermal spas. By night, the shimmering lights of the Parliament building dance across the waters of the Danube, the Chain Bridge uniting it all as a dramatic centerpiece.

DAY 2 – Tuesday Jul 2 Budapest, Hungary City Tour

Budapest’s old town is a fascinating medieval patchwork of narrow streets and colorful houses. In the Castle District, the Matthias Church soars in Gothic glory. Adjacent, the expansive wall and seven turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion overlook the Danube, the graceful Chain Bridge and the Pest side of the river. The centerpiece of the district is the sprawling Buda Castle. Constructed in the 13th century and expanded to its current baroque splendor during the 18th century, this edifice was home to Hungary’s kings for almost 700 years.

Cross the Chain Bridge, browse a museum or visit a thermal spa in the “Paris of the East.”

Morning 8:30-12 (3.5 hours) INCLUDED PANORAMIC BUDAPEST Reservation Confirmed

Take in one of Europe’s great cultural capitals and see its iconic sights. Over the last few decades, Budapest has reemerged as one of the continent’s iconic cities, divided by the Danube River and connected by the graceful Chain Bridge.

Meet your guide for a panoramic tour, beginning in modern Pest. Along the elegant Andrássy Avenue, admire the National Opera House. Pass Heroes’ Square, a spacious plaza of monuments and statues commemorating the Magyar state. Across the river, explore the more traditional Buda side of the city. Here, visit the Castle District with its massive hilltop castle complex, the turreted Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church. From the heights of Buda Hill, take in views of the famous Chain Bridge. Afterward, enjoy free time at Budapest's colorful Market Hall to browse an array of speciality food and handicrafts.

An Enchanting Evening of Sights and Landmarks -- Meet your guide and set off on a panoramic drive to witness several iconic sights. Admire the twinkling lights along the Danube and enjoy memorable views of the city known as the “Paris of the East.” See brilliantly illuminated bridges, including the Liberty Bridge—the shortest bridge in the city that connects Buda and Pest. View landmarks, such as Gellért Hill and Buda Castle, as your knowledgeable guide regales you with stories of the city’s history. Your drive continues along the Danube River to the beautiful Parliament building; its illuminated façade is a sight to behold after dark. Cap your excursion with a visit to a bar, where you can enjoy views of the Danube River as you sip a glass of sparkling wine.

Stroll the delightful streets of Szentendre, a colorful village of galleries and artists, and pay a visit to one of its renowned museums commemorating one of the town’s beloved. With cobblestone streets, pastel facades and a red-roofed townscape, Szentendre overflows with charm. In the 1500s, the Hungarian-Serbian community laid the foundations of what we see here today; at one time, eight Serbian Orthodox churches served this rural hamlet. The town holds fast to its roots. And today, it is home to a thriving artists’ community, embodied in the richly hued houses and decorated storefronts. Journey here with your guide and amble along the narrow, picturesque streets, pausing to browse inviting galleries that display the work of local artists. You will also visit the Margit Kovács Museum; this artist’s early 20th-century ceramics and other sculptures won her international accolades as they captured a rich tableau of past times in the Hungarian countryside.

Explore historic Buda during a city hike to Castle Hill and admire magnificent vistas over the Danube. Depart your ship and set out on foot, crossing the bridge over the Danube where you will begin your ascent to Castle Hill, home to some of the city’s most prized medieval treasures. Explore the maze of cobblestone streets and pathways, and keep watch for the entrances to the underground labyrinth of caves that run beneath Castle Hill. Stroll around the grounds of the Royal Palace and time your visit to witness the Changing of the Guard. See the beautiful Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion, and stroll along quaint streets lined with coffeehouses. From the top, you can also admire stunning views over the Danube and the majestic Chain Bridge, an engineering marvel of its time. Walk down the hill to the riverside and return to your ship.

DAY 3 – Wednesday July 3 Budapest, Hungary – Tour and Cruise Embarkation

After breakfast, check out of your hotel. Transfer to your ship and settle into your stateroom.

During the 12th century, the first Jewish settlers arrived in Buda from neighboring German and Slavic countries. Over the next hundreds of years, the community played an important role in the cultural and economic development of Hungary. But, like elsewhere in Europe, life for Jews alternated between periods of prosperity and persecution. More than 100,000 perished during the Holocaust, and a number of Budapest’s landmarks serve as a reminder of the events that took place. One of the most poignant memorials is the 60 pairs of cast-iron shoes that line the banks of the Danube River. They represent the men, women and children who fell there at the hands of the Hungarian Nazi Arrow Cross Party.

Pay homage to master magician Harry Houdini or see the statue commemorating Ronald Reagan.

DURATION: 3 HOURS 30 MINUTES Morning 10 am to 1:30 pm Sightseeing Special Interest Moderate*

Explore Budapest’s Jewish history and heritage, including the Jewish Quarter and massive synagogue. A century ago, Budapest had a thriving Jewish community. In the years leading up to and including World War II, half of the city’s 250,000 Jews were killed. The 19th-century Moorish-Revival Dohány Street Synagogue (Great Synagogue), the largest in Europe, was converted to a stable. Today, a rich Jewish history is preserved, as you will see with your guide. During a walking tour of the Jewish Quarter, once the Budapest Ghetto, admire the Great Synagogue with its glittering interior. In the synagogue complex, browse religious relics at the Jewish Museum and view the “Tree of Life” memorial to the 400,000 Hungarian Jews killed by Nazis. Note that the synagogue is not open to tours on Saturdays and Jewish holidays.

Gödöllö Royal Palace was built by Count Antal Grassalkovich, well-respected among the monarchy and a confidante of Empress Maria Theresa. But when the last direct male descendant in the family died, it was bought for the royal couple as a summer house. In the 20th century, Soviet troops used it as a barracks and transformed some wings into rest homes for the aged. Restoration began in 1985 and continues today. Upon arrival, you will tour the elegantly adorned rooms of King Franz Joseph’s suite. See the lush furnishings and finely detailed woodwork of Empress Elisabeth’s private apartments. And pause in the impressive Grand Hall to imagine the royal court gathering for ceremonial occasions. Later, there will be time to admire the French-inspired gardens and vast, beautifully manicured park surrounding the palace.

Step inside Hungary’s grand parliament building and get a flavor for the nation’s hearty cuisine. Transfer with your guide to the Budapest Parliament building, the world’s third largest. As the nation’s business goes on around you, you will enjoy a guided tour of select public rooms. Next, walk to Szabadság Square, or Liberty Square, stopping to view the statue of Ronald Reagan and the art nouveau treasures that surround this public space. You will also see the US Embassy and the decorative Postal Savings Bank. Pause to taste some pogácsa, or salty scones, enroute to the Urban Betyár Restaurant, where you will sample heart sausages and a cup of goulash soup. Finish your tasting tour with a delicious Somlói Galuska and hear the story behind this beloved sweet treat.

DAY 4 -Thursday July 4 Kalocsa, Hungary – Puszta horse show, organ concert

Once the seat of the archbishop, the cultural center of Kalocsa is more than 1,000 years old.

The quaint town, surrounded by 8,000 acres of farmland growing fiery red peppers, is brimming with traditional Hungarian culture and steeped in the piquant flavors of paprika, the “red gold” that has been giving local goulash its distinctive taste for centuries. The world’s first Paprika Museum chronicles the spice’s history.

The streets are adorned with bright murals of floral motifs, which create a cheery ambience for browsing craft-filled shops. Hungary’s artistic heritage takes center stage at the House of Folk Arts museum.

Sample paprika-flavored food in this cultural center and see blue-attired csikós, or Hungarian cowboys at a Puszta horsemanship show.

Visit one of Hungary’s major cultural centers and attend a breathtaking display of traditional horsemanship. Depart your ship for a short drive to the city of Kalocsa, where a rich history is flavored by the town’s renowned peppery paprika. In Holy Trinity Square, you will see the splendid cathedral and admire the Archbishop’s Palace. After a short organ concert at St. Joseph Church, continue to the Bakodpuszta Equestrian Center. The people of the Hungarian Puszta region have long relied on horses for transportation, settlement and defense of their land. Many locals worry that their country’s equestrian connection is being lost to a motorized world, so they hold fast to rural ways and to their four-legged comrades, elevating horsemanship to an art form. Witness the sometimes acrobatic culmination of this long-cherished relationship during a thrilling show.

Enjoy a fascinating experience at a Hungarian vineyard during a wine barrel-making demonstration and a tasting. Journey to the Antinori-owned Tűzkő Estate, where you will meet your host, who will take you on a ride through the vineyard in a 4x4 jeep. Admire the terraced vines and enjoy a tasting at the viewing platform; some of the wine from the estate is available on your Viking ship. In the estate’s workshop, watch a master cooper at work and learn about the process of making a wine barrel, from selecting the right oak and cutting the staves to assembling the barrel. Witness the “toasting” of the staves and learn how integral this part of the process is in defining the wine’s properties. Cap your tour with a visit to the wine cellar for a tasting of a selection of wines, accompanied by snacks. You will be able to purchase wine to take home, before returning to your ship.

DAY 5 – Friday, July 5 Osijek and Vukovar, Croatia

The fourth-largest city in Croatia, Osijek is located near the confluence of the Drava and Danube Rivers. It is the largest city and the economic and cultural capital of the eastern Croatian region of Slavonia.

In its early days, Osijek was a Roman settlement called Mursa Maior (“major”). It was later rebuilt by the Ottomans and ruled by the Hapsburg Empire. Today, with an abundance of farmland and game, as well as plentiful baroque architecture and musical and outdoor venues, Osijek has become a gastronomic and cultural center of Croatia. Its cathedral can host 3,000 people.

See Osijek’s highlights and meet a local family; admire Vukovar’s buildings and palace.

Osijek was bombarded in the early 1990’s during the Croatian War for Independence, but its historic center escaped major damage, and the entire city has undergone major restorations.

See the highlights of Vukovar and Osijek, and stop to meet a Croatian family along the way.

Join your guide and make the short drive to Vukovar, passing the Vuka River, the palace of the former Count Eltz and the city’s main street, lined with buildings that carry echoes of Northern Europe. As you arrive in Osijek, pause to visit a local family in their home and learn about their daily lives. After, continue to the Osijek Citadel complex for a walking tour. Enjoy a concert in the Rising of the Holy Cross Church. Then explore Holy Trinity Square, see the town’s only surviving gate and stroll the picturesque promenade along the Drava River. See more of the town by motor coach, passing green parks and driving along European Avenue, the most scenic street in Osijek, lined with elegant baroque and Belle Époque buildings.

Discover the rich and varied history of northern Croatia and sample some of its delicious wines. Since Roman times, this region of the country has been coveted, thanks to its strategic location on the Danube. During this enlightening excursion, you will drive with your guide to one of the area’s renowned museums, a castle with fascinating medieval origins, where you will browse a rich and revealing collection of artifacts dating back centuries. As you tour the castle chambers and halls, Croatia’s past comes alive in priceless relics that have survived the ages. You will also turn to the fruits of the earth when you descend into a wine cellar in the historic town of Ilok. In these dim corridors, you will taste a combination of five red, white or rose wines and experience for yourself why its prized grapes and hearty vintages have helped put Croatia on every oenophile’s map.

Delve into recent history and discover the events that contributed to the breakup of the former Yugoslavia. From 1991 to 1995, the Croatian War of Independence was fought. Starting in August 1991, the 87-day Battle of Vukovar commenced. With your knowledgeable guide, you will visit the Homeland War Memorial Center and view military equipment that was used by the Croatian army, including armored vehicles, tanks and aircraft. After time to explore the open-air and housed exhibits, continue to the Ovčara Memorial House. Here, you may pay tribute to the Croatian veterans and civilians that lost their lives. Cap your tour with a stop at the Vukovar Water Tower. Built during the 1960s, it became an iconic symbol of resistance when images emerged of the ruined city with only its water tower still standing. Today, it serves as a reminder to those who bravely fought for their independence.

DAY 6 – Saturday, July 6 Belgrade, Serbia City Tour

The Serbian capital and former capital of the state of Yugoslavia, Belgrade is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Its location at the confluence of the Sava and Danube Rivers has long made it a contested region. Throughout its history, the “White City,” as its Serbian name translates, has been destroyed and rebuilt 20 times. Fortunately, the wide-reaching citadel remains, housing the Kalemegdan Fortress, Orthodox churches, Turkish baths and green parkland. Its Church of St. Sava is one of the largest Orthodox buildings in the world.

Walk around Kalemegdan Fortress or see the Church of St. Sava and Square of the Republic.

INCLUDED PANORAMIC BELGRADE Reservation Confirmed Sightseeing Shopping Easy*

See Belgrade’s monuments and architectural splendor during this enlightening tour of Europe’s most resilient city. The Serbian capital of Belgrade overlooks the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. Ravaged and rebuilt 20 times in its history, many of the city’s finest buildings have been gloriously restored. Take a guided walk around the famed Kalemegdan Fortress. Its stalwart walls loom over the Old Town; impressive medieval gates enclose Orthodox churches, Turkish baths, a soaring monument to “The Victor” and more. Enjoy a stroll in the park around the fortress, taking in vistas of the river. Later, witness modern-day Belgrade during a panoramic drive and visit the Church of St. Sava, one of the world’s largest Orthodox churches. Stop in the Square of the Republic to admire the statue of Prince Michael and enjoy free time to browse stores in the adjacent pedestrian shopping area.

Explore the rich history and culture of Serbia’s capital and head underground for a lunch paired with wine. Once the center of a civil war, Belgrade today is an exuberant, forward-looking city. Drive with your guide to the ancient Kalemegdan Fortress, the pinnacle of the city. Enjoy a guided walk through the surrounding park. Then, during a panoramic drive, see the imposing Town Hall, once home of the Obrenović dynasty and Republic Square, before stopping to visit the Church of St. Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. You will also tour the Tito Memorial, a moving tribute dedicated to the “Father of Yugoslavia,” Marshal Josip Tito. Later, descend underground into a vast labyrinth owned by the wine-making Panajotović family. Within the cool walls of these fascinating Roman-era cellars, savor a delicious lunch paired with a selection of their wines.

Journey into the Pannonian Basin to learn about the Naïve Art movement and to visit a violin-making studio. In the 1950s, Kovačica residents Martin Paluska and Jan Soko took brushes to canvas without formal training, and began to paint daily life around them. Perspective was not a concern for them, nor was realism. But the Naïve Art style that they created stuck and became a movement. Journey into the Carpathian Basin, past soybean and sunflower fields, where Slovaks, Serbs, Hungarians, Romanians and Slavs live in harmony side by side. Here, you will learn about the Naïve Art movement from an expert and browse the village collection. Some of the finest violins are made in Kovačica, too, as you will see when you visit the studio and home of violin maker Jan Nemček. The master will demonstrate some of his techniques and play a tune on a violin that he constructed.

DURATION: 4 HOURS 15 MINUTES 8:15 am- 12:30 pm Sightseeing Snack Shopping Demanding*

Stroll the historic streets of Belgrade and see the city’s architectural highlights on a walking tour. At Kalemegdan Park, marvel at the landscape dominated by the imposing fortress. Built in the 3rd century BC by the Romans, the fortress guarded the border separating the ruling Roman Empire from barbarian lands across the Danube, later the divider between the Ottoman and Austro-Hungarian Empires. Explore the grounds as you learn of its dramatic storied past. Next, walk along the Grand Boulevard to Knez Mihailova Street where you will enjoy free time to stroll the pedestrian area and indulge in some shopping. Stop for coffee and cake at the historic Moscow Hotel and take a bus ride to the Church of St. Sava, one of the largest orthodox churches in the world. Return to your ship by tram.

Join locals on a leisurely exploration of a popular urban outdoor escape along the banks of the Sava River. Begin your bicycle tour near the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, where the city of Belgrade has its roots. Pass Belgrade’s new waterfront complex, located on the right bank of river Sava, with its modern buildings and wide promenade. Surprisingly soon, you leave the bustle of Belgrade behind as you wind your way through parklands and quiet residential neighborhoods toward Ada Lake, located on an island in the river. This small idyll, lined with cozy cafés and sunny beaches, provides the perfect urban oasis and is very popular with the people of Belgrade. Spend some time taking in the tranquil surroundings and enjoy a refreshing drink before heading back to your ship.

DURATION: 2 HOURS 30 MINUTES 6pm – 8:30 pm Culinary Culture Local Life Sightseeing Moderate*

Stroll the vintage streets of Belgrade and savor an authentic Serbian meal at a local restaurant. Meet your guide and embark on a guided walk through Skadarlija, the bohemian quarter of Belgrade known for its many cafes, art galleries and taverns. Stroll the cobblestoned streets of the Old Town and admire notable architecture, dating back to the 19th century. Soak up the atmosphere of the city’s quaint squares as you watch people amble by. At a local restaurant, sit down to a tasty meal of local fare and enjoy a lively toe-tapping performance. You will enjoy urnebes, a popular Serbian paprika spread; a tasty meat selection including ćevapi; grilled Serbian beef sausages; and a selection of traditional desserts. You will also enjoy some local Serbian wine. Your appetite sated, return to your awaiting ship.

DAY 7 – Sunday, July 7 Golubac, Serbia – Tour Fortress and Scenic Sailing: The Iron Gate

Learn about the history of the 14th-century Golubac Fortress and admire scenic river views.

Millennia of history await at “the Town of Doves,” the gateway to the Djerdap National Park. The Iron Gate of the Danube lies between the mighty Carpathian and Balkan Mountains, its dramatic scenery carved by narrow ravines. Guarding the Danube is the imposing 14th-century Golubac Fortress, which has seen ruling empires vie for its control over the centuries, changing hands between the Serbs, Hungarians, Bulgarians and Turks. Serbian culture is swathed in tradition, and it is an integral part of the country’s identity that has carried its people through challenging times in history. Ancient civilizations to modern empires have left their mark, creating a unique, fascinating heritage that spans thousands of years.

Admire sweeping views of the Danube River and its surroundings during a walking tour of Golubac Fortress. Disembark your ship at the pier and meet your guide, then take a short stroll to this fortified medieval town that sits along the shores of the mighty Danube. Explore the remnants of the high stone walls and looming square towers as your guide regales you with stories of the fortress’s history. Originally a Roman settlement, it was built during the 14th century; who built it remains a mystery, but its strategic position along the Danube made it a valuable prize for conquering armies throughout the centuries. Stop atop the ramparts to gaze across the Danube and revel in the natural beauty of the encircling landscape. After your walk, take a moment to appreciate your surroundings on your own before returning to your awaiting ship and continuing your cruise.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Serbia during a hike to a scenic viewpoint in idyllic Djerdap National Park. Stretching out along the Danube River and covering more than 245 square miles, the park is famous for its sweeping views of the Iron Gate gorge. Your park ranger and knowledgeable guide will lead you along a forest trail as you hike up the 1,174 feet to the Kovilovo viewpoint. Stop for refreshments and time to admire the beautiful landscape before hiking down. Your excursion will also take you to the remnants of Golubac Fortress, an imposing medieval town, and the eco-village of Kapetan Mišin Breg, where you will visit an art gallery before browsing the handicrafts on display and sampling local favorites such as honey brandy, proja (corn bread) and pohovana kopriva (fried nettles) at a private viewpoint. At the end of your tour, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Discover one of Europe’s oldest settlements during a visit to the famous Lepenski Vir archaeological site. Founded more than 8,500 years ago along the banks of the Danube River, this important Stone Age find is often called the “first city in Europe.” Upon arrival, enjoy an insightful presentation, guided tour and free time to learn more about this prehistoric settlement and the culture that once flourished here. Your excursion into life along the Danube will take you to the remnants of Golubac Fortress, a medieval town with views of the surrounding landscape, and the eco-village of Kapetan Mišin Breg, where you will visit an art gallery before browsing the handicrafts on display and sampling local favorites such as honey brandy, proja (corn bread) and pohovana kopriva (fried nettles) from a private viewpoint. At the end of your tour, you will return to your awaiting ship.

Scenic Sailing: The Iron Gate. Sail the picturesque Danube River and admire the natural wonders of the Iron Gate.

Sail through one of Europe’s most dramatic natural wonders, the picturesque stretch famously known as the Iron Gate. Meander through narrow gorges that slice through the Carpathian Mountains to the north and the Balkan Mountains to the south, and marvel at the towering white limestone cliffs draped with forest. Be on the lookout for ancient remains upon the dramatic walls. On the Serbian side, Trajan’s Tablet was laid to mark the construction of a Roman military road; on the Romanian side, marvel at the enormous rock sculpture of Dacian king Decebalus.

DAY 8 – Monday July 8 Vidin, Bulgaria

One of Bulgaria’s oldest riverside towns, Vidin is home to the only entirely preserved medieval Bulgarian castle. Perched impressively on the riverbank, its striking pose, thick ring walls, stout towers and solid gates form a fortress known as Babini Vidini Kuli, which means Granny Vida’s Towers. Around the castle rose a fairy-tale town of 25 minarets, domes and other charming architecture of the period. Though many of these features have been shadowed by today’s city, Vidin retains its charms. Today it is largely an agricultural and trade center renowned for its wines.

Journey into one of Bulgaria’s most scenic regions to see how geography helped create an architectural treasure. Join your guide for a drive from Vidin to the Belogradchik Rocks. With their strange, red-hued cliffs and massifs, these stunning mountains strike a dramatic pose. The result of millennia of weathering, river erosion, freezing and countless other factors, these formations are more than Bulgaria’s great natural wonder. They are also a curiosity for the multitude of fantastic figures and profiles that emerge when you catch them at just the right angle. Silhouettes of people, towers, ships, mushrooms, palaces and animals populate the cliffs. You will also see the fascinating Belogradchik Fortress, built by the Ottomans in a maze of rock columns and pillars. Take a walk around the compound and enjoy superior views of the caves and rock shapes from its many terraced courtyards.

See how everyday Bulgarians live; learn how to prepare the nation’s beloved banitsa, and how the diet here helps some locals live to 100. Drive with your guide to a home near Vidin, where your gracious hosts greet you with freshly baked traditional round bread. Relax, get comfortable and look around the house and garden. Then, head to the kitchen to see how Bulgaria’s banitsa is prepared, and try preparing it for yourself. This phyllo pastry, a central part of family celebrations, may be prepared with spinach, cheese, grated pumpkin or whatever ingredient is on hand. Often, the baker inserts a lucky charm into the dough before cooking so it can be discovered with much surprise later. As your banitsa, cooks, you can sample the local yogurt and learn to curdle your own. Locals love yogurt in Vidin, and they claim it is why so many of them are centenarians.

Explore the wonderfully preserved Baba Vida fortress and sample a selection of Bulgarian wines at a local winery. Meet your guide and embark on a scenic drive to Vidin’s most prominent landmark, the medieval Bada Vida fortress. Enjoy a guided visit of its defensive walls and towers and learn about its history as you tour the museum exhibits. Next, you will visit the Dos Alamos winery for a tour of the facility with an expert oenologist. See how the modern approach of wine production blends harmoniously with more than 200 years of family wine-making heritage during a tour of the lab and underground cellars. Afterward, you will sit down to sample a selection of fine wines accompanied by savory snacks, before returning to your awaiting ship.

DAY 9 – Tuesday July 9 Ruse, Bulgaria City Tour

The most integral Danube city in Bulgaria, Ruse enjoys a setting amid a rolling countryside blanketed in sunflower and wheat fields. Once an outpost of the Roman Empire, it was known as Sexaginta Prista, or Sixty Ships, for the fleet that once docked here. Today, it is more known for its colorful atmosphere and as a gateway to Romania’s fabled Transylvania region. Best explored on foot, the city features many fine examples of 19th- and 20th-century neobaroque and neorococo architecture.

Marvel at the brilliant architectural variety of Bulgaria’s most important river port, known as “Little Vienna.” Established during the 1st century AD, Ruse is a repository of neo-baroque, neo-rococo, Empire, Renaissance and Secession brilliance. During this guided excursion, you will see the city’s most beloved landmarks.

Pass the rich, crimson-hued Opera House, the Monument of Liberty—the symbol of the city—and the neoclassical Theater and Concert Hall.

Continue to the baroque Old City Center, a collection of architectural styles, and the impressive Sveta Troitsa, or Holy Trinity, Church with its hexagonal tower.

Then, browse the fascinating collection at the Museum of History, which houses 140,000 artifacts and items discovered in Danube castles.

Afterward, enjoy free time to explore the old town on your own, before returning to your awaiting ship.

Tour two cultural gems rich in Bulgarian heritage during this full-day excursion into the heart of the country.

Begin with a drive through Ruse, then continue to Veliko Tarnovo, a fascinating medieval town built around Tsarevets Hill and its castle. After a coffee break, stop at the Yantra River bridge for a nice view of the majestic Assenev Brothers monument, a towering obelisk flanked by horses. Next, explore Samovodska Charshia, a traditional street teeming with handicrafts, or visit the castle ruins and enjoy vistas of the Old Town and countryside.

Afterward, proceed to Arbanasi, rich in history and Greek influence. After lunch at a local restaurant, sample the Damascus rose products, locally made from the essence of roses. After, you will visit a local merchant house and see the intricate frescoes of the Nativity Church with a local guide.

Easy - Walking portions are generally over easy surfaces with few steps or inclines. Total time walking or standing is normally not longer than 1.5 hours.

See the fascinating rock-hewn churches of Ivanovo and visit the impressive Basarbovo Monastery. Join your guide and transfer by motor coach to the Basarbovo Monastery, an Orthodox monastery on the cliffs near the village of Basarbovo. Chiseled out of rocks, this spectacular sight is the only functioning rock monastery in Bulgaria. Next, visit the rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of monolithic churches sculpted out of solid rock, located in the Rusenski Lom Nature Park. View the 14th-century frescoes, a series of incredible examples of mastery in Bulgarian medieval art, inside this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The works showcase the craftsmanship of the artists from the Tarnovo School of painting. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

DAY 10 – Wednesday July 10 - Bucharest, Romania - Disembark -Bucharest City Tour

Explore Romania’s capital; view the Palace of Parliament and the Village Museum.

After breakfast, disembark your ship and transfer to your destination. Arrive and check in to your hotel. Bucharest is Romania’s cultural capital. Its original fortress, the first of many, was built to protect the Walachian state from the Turks. Today, it is a city of elegant French-style boulevards, lush gardens and green expanses, including the tranquil Bucharest Botanical Garden. The historic Lipscani district exudes the old-world charms of cobblestone alleys, inns and shops. The sprawling Palace of Parliament is the world’s largest civilian building, said to contain 3,000 rooms.

Explore the sights of Bucharest on a tour of the Romanian capital. Embark your motor coach for a scenic drive to Spring Palace—once the residence of dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu. View the collection of treasures and personal items that have remained intact since the revolution of 1989.

Next, take the subway to Roman Square. Visit the beautiful concert hall and admire the fresco depicting stories of Romanian history. Walk down the Calea Victoriei (Victory Avenue) and admire the stunning architecture as you pass the National Art Museum, National Library and Crețulescu Church.

At Revolution Square, stop and view the building that was once home to the Central Committee of the Communist Party and see the balcony on which Ceaușescu gave his final speech before he was arrested and executed.

In the Old Town, you will stroll through the narrow cobblestone streets and stop at the oldest beerhouse in the city for a traditional lunch with locally brewed beers.

Explore Romania’s fascinating capital, an impressive collection of unique architecture and grand monuments. Founded in the 14th century, Bucharest became Romania’s capital in 1859 with the merging of Moldavia and Walachia.

See the city’s wide boulevards, the Romanian Athenaeum, the Arch of Triumph and the expansive Palace of Parliament—the largest civilian building in the world.

Visit the outdoor Muzeul Satului, otherwise known as the Village Museum, where authentic dwellings from all regions of the country have been relocated and reassembled, including rural cottages, farmhouses and water mills.

Head to the Old Town and wander amid its narrow streets before lunch at a local restaurant. Here, you will cap your excursion with a lively folkloric performance that recalls the simple pleasures of rural life.

DURATION: 8 HOURS 8:30 am – 4:30 pm Meal Special Interest Sightseeing Moderate*

Discover Bucharest’s Old Town on foot and step inside the opulent Palace of Parliament for an intriguing tour.

Set off by motor coach on a panoramic drive to the Palace of Parliament and learn about the fascinating history behind the impressive site during an inside visit. The second-largest administrative building in the world, it was commissioned by the former Romanian president, Nicolae Ceauşescu, and took 13 years to build. Admire the ornate interior and large rooms adorned with crystal chandeliers.

After your visit, continue your scenic drive to Revolution Square for a photo stop, followed by a guided walk in the Old Town. Stroll the cobblestoned streets while admiring the neo-baroque architecture in the heart of the city. Cap your walk with a delicious lunch at traditional Romanian restaurant and enjoy free time to explore before returning to your ship.

Enjoy a mix of authentic Romanian cuisine and see the city’s sights during a stroll of the Old Town.

Embark on a scenic drive by motor coach, passing the Palace of the Parliament, the second largest building in the world. Here, you will meet your host for a beer tasting of local brews, accompanied by a selection of traditional appetizers, at the popular Becker Brau brewery.

Continue your culinary journey to the Interbelic District in the heart of the city for your main course, here you will dine on tasty fare paired with wine, housed in an elegant art nouveau-style inn.

For dessert, alight your coach at United Nations Square at a stylish Neo-Romanesque villa. Your appetite sated, cap your tour with a stroll through the delightful Old Town, through the beautiful Macca Villacrosse Passage, with its yellow, glass-covered arcade.

DAY 11 – Thursday July 11 Bucharest, Romania Fly to Istanbul, Turkey Check into hotel

Communism changed the face of Bucharest and has left in its wake a city brimming with imposing socialist architecture. Dotted among today’s cityscape are wonderful art nouveau buildings, ancient churches and monasteries that were rescued from the bulldozer.

From the 18th-century church Schitul Maicilor to the 16th-century Mihai Vodă Church, it is best to discover these treasures on foot. Bucharest is also home to an array of world-class museums, including the George Enescu National Museum, which features a beautiful oyster-shaped glass awning.

Located in the vibrant Beşiktaş district, a short distance from many of the city’s iconic landmarks and shopping destinations, this hotel combines modern amenities and unforgettable views of Istanbul’s skyline. Guests can enjoy a cocktail while relaxing on the panoramic terrace at the Summit bar or indulge in Mediterranean cuisine at Manzara.

DAY 12 – Friday July 12 Fly Istanbul, Turkey

INCLUDED Guided tour: Istanbul Old City Tour with the Hippodrome of Constantinople, “Blue Mosque” & Hagia Sofia;
9:00 AM 4 Hours Iconic Landmarks of Byzantine and Ottoman Empires MODERATE SIGHTSEEING

Discover three of Istanbul’s most impressive and legendary landmarks during a walk through the historic Old City.

Visit the former site of the legendary Hippodrome, once the largest chariot racetrack in the Byzantine Empire. See the Egyptian obelisk imported by Emperor Theodosius, the Serpentine Column from the Temple of Apollo at Delphi and more. Head to the iconic “Blue Mosque,” or Sultan Ahmed Mosque. Marvel at its slender minarets and cascade of domes, one of Istanbul’s most recognizable sights. Take a guided tour of its lavish interior, decorated with blue İznik tiles that give the building its nickname. Explore the famous 6th-century Hagia Sophia, a former cathedral and mosque renowned as the embodiment of Byzantine architecture with its central dome; at the time of its construction, it was the world’s largest building. Admire the golden tiles and masterful frescoes within, as well as the dome which seems to hover weightlessly overhead.

Everyone is welcome, and it's free. If you need a head cover, they provide you one free as well. Must remove shoes which is respectful.

Location in old Town Istanbul Türkiye within walking distance of Hagia Sofia ( Free) Turkish bath, Topkapi Palace (small fee).

Savor a traditional Turkish dinner as you take in the twinkling lights that line the Bosphorus Strait.

A busy trade route for centuries, the strait was once filled with old-world ships delivering spices and other wares to the city’s markets. Today, with Europe on one bank and Asia on the other, it remains an important international crossroads that has shaped the character of one of the world’s great cities. Meet your guide and embark on a scenic drive to your restaurant, along the banks of the Bosphorus Strait. Take your seat and sit back and relax as you prepare to embark on a tasting journey and sample a selection of delicious Turkish fare, full of the rich flavors inherent to this tasty cuisine. A range of delicious grilled meats, salads and other accompaniments will be served. Your appetite sated, enjoy an illuminated panoramic journey back to your hotel.

1480 Sok No:1 Cukurambar Mah Cankaya 06530, Ankara Turkey
Telephone: +(90) (312) 294-0000 (emergencies only) Fax: +(90) (312) 232-7472
Contact American Citizen Services Ankara

DAY 13 – Saturday July 13 Istanbul

INCLUDED Guided tour: Topkapi Palace Tour
9:00 AM 4 Hours Imperial Treasury and Royal Residence of the Sultan MODERATE SIGHTSEEING

Explore the huge fortified complex of Topkapi Palace for a glimpse into the opulent lives of the sultans.

This palace on the shores of the Bosphorus was the epicenter of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years. Today, it is a repository for many spectacular treasures housed within its walls, which are surrounded by extensive gardens. Walk through the Imperial Treasury, housing a vast glittering collection of weapons, ceramics, imperial costumes and jewelry—including the famous 86-carat Spoonmaker’s Diamond and exquisite Topkapi Dagger. Visit the Harem, the royal residence of the sultan and his family. See where the eunuchs and concubines lived, and tour the Queen Mother’s rooms. As you stroll, take note of the cupboard doors inlaid with mother-of-pearl and tortoiseshell, and the beautiful blue İznik tiles glazed with floral patterns and verses from the Koran. Afterward, you will return to your ship.

See Istanbul from the waters that divide Europe and Asia and visit a renowned spice market from the Byzantine era.

Embark on a short drive from your ship into Istanbul’s bustling Old City. Upon arrival, follow your nose to the famous Spice Bazaar, a covered market that has been the center of the city’s spice trade since the mid-17th century. Take a guided stroll through shops piled high with fragrant, colorful spices, plus Turkish Delight, mementos, and dried fruits and nuts. Afterward, head to the bustling banks of the Bosphorus Strait, where you will board a local sightseeing boat for a scenic cruise along this historic waterway that separates two continents. Sail past Rumeli Fortress, a medieval hilltop fortification; see the eclectic blend of European and Ottoman influences that grace the grand facade of the Dolmabahçe Palace; and admire elegant Beylerbeyi Palace, the former summer residence of the sultan.

DAY 14 – Sunday July 14 Istanbul

DAY 15 – Monday July 15 Fly from Istanbul to Atlanta

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DAY 0 – Sunday June 30 Fly to Hungary

DAY 1 – Monday July 1 Arrive in Budapest Hungary, check into hotel