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Enchantment of Eastern Europe

Resort:Enchantment of Eastern Europe
Operator: Emerald Waterways
Destination: Bulgaria, Croatia, Europe, Hungary, Romania, Serbia
Price From: £1995.00

Overview

As the final stretch of the Danube weaves its way through the depths of eastern Europe, meet locals for lunch in their home, enjoy tours of Osijek & Belgrade & marvel at the beauty of the Iron Gate.

 

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival Budapest

You will be met and transferred from the airport to your Emerald Waterways luxury river cruise ship. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner and drinks.
EmeraldPLUS: Evening Cruise of Budapest

Meals Included: Dinner

Day 2 – Kalocsa

Early this morning we sail out of Budapest towards Kalocsa, one of the oldest towns in Hungary, famous for the production of paprika. This afternoon, visit a local Puszta Horse Farm and enjoy a performance showcasing the exceptional riding skills of Magyar horseman. Tonight, the Captain will be delighted to host a gala dinner.
EmeraldPLUS: Visit to Puszta Horse Farm

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Osijek

Cruise into the border region of Croatia today, an area that was heavily damaged during the Croatian War of Independence at the end of the communist era. Compare stories back at the ship and enjoy an evening of sailing further down the Danube into Serbia, where remnants of former conflicts can be regularly seen along the river banks.
EmeraldPLUS: Home Hosted Lunch with a Croatian Family
EmeraldPLUS: Meet students from the local village

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Belgrade

Serbia’s vibrant capital awaits today, your city tour includes a visit to Tito’s Memorial, the impressive Fortress Kalemegdan and St Sava Church which is the world’s largest orthodox cathedral.
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Biking Tour
EmeraldPLUS: Serbian Folklore Evening Show

DiscoverMORE: National Opera Theatre Tour (extra expense)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Kostolac

Today you will embark on an incredible journey to the first and biggest architectural archaeological excavation in Eastern Europe, the Viminacium Archaeological Excavation Site and Museum. This site was one of the most important Roman cities and military camps in the period from 1st to 4th centuries. Its exceptional strategic importance was reflected both in the defence of the northern border of the Roman Empire and in turn of communications and commercial transactions. Return to the ship and sail through the narrow gorge between the European Alps and Carpathian Mountains, known as the Iron Gates.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Vidin

Arrive in Vidin, the most western town in Bulgaria. Your day will begin with an included tour visiting a local vineyard with wine tasting. Later, visit the medieval Baba Vida Fortress. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike to Belogradchik rock fortress.
EmeraldACTIVE: Hike to Belogradchik

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7 – Rousse Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanasi

Today your ship will cruise to Rousse and visit the impressive cliff top town of Veliko Tarnovo, the former capital of the Bulgarian empire known once as the ‘city of the Tsars’. Visit the historic town of Arbanasi perched on a high plateau overlooking the Yantra River and lined with traditional houses. The town is known for its 17th and 18th century churches and many examples of Bulgarian National Revival architecture. Tonight, join your Captain for a farewell reception and dinner.
EmeraldACTIVE: Hike to Ivanovo Church
EmeraldPLUS: Choir Concert in Arbanasi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8 – Giurgiu Disembarkation – Bucharest

This morning, disembark your Emerald Waterways luxury river cruise and journey by road to Romania’s capital, Bucharest. The city’s wide avenues have a distinctly French feel; in fact, the city is often referred to as the Paris of the East. Included is a one-night stay in Bucharest.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 9 – Bucharest Farewell

Your tour concludes after breakfast when you are transferred to the airport for your onward or home bound flight.

Please note: Pre release itinerary subject to change

Meals Included: Breakfast