Best of the Balkans

Pricing based on departure dates: 14 April 2024

Alternative departure date 12 April 2024

Mohacs, Pecs

From the sleepy port town of Mohacs, history buffs will delight in the chance to travel to the ancient city of Pecs. As Hungary’s fifth-largest city, this World Heritage site offers plenty in the way of sightseeing. Be sure to check out the copper domes of the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, as well as the 11th-century Pecs Cathedral.

Vukovar

Following the Croatian War of Independence, Vukovar’s economy, infrastructure and culture were in disarray. However, today you will see the efforts taken to restore this city to its former glory. Today, visit the Vukovar City Museum, hidden inside Eltz Manor. Enjoy the chance to wander through the castle complex.

Belgrade 

INSIDER EXPERIENCE - Discover the traditional Serbian way of life with a local family in the village of Jarak. Take a tour of their home and barn to meet the resident farm animals. Stroll through the family’s fruit orchards to learn about the brewing process of ‘slivovitz’. This plum brandy is the national drink of choice.

In Serbia’s capital, join a guided tour through the city. Perhaps see the Belgrade Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St Sava. Experience a traditional Serbian way of living during your Insider Experience today.

Iron Gates

Get ready to witness nature at its finest today as your ship cruises through the Iron Gates. This spectacular series of gorges connects Serbia and Romania, and makes for an out-of-this-world cruising experience. Make sure to have your camera charged and at the ready!

Rousse

Go ashore to Rousse, one of Bulgaria’s most elegant cities. Join a walking tour and admire the belle epoque architecture and manicured garden squares, which are reminiscent of Vienna. You’ll also pass by Liberty Square, the courthouse, the Rousse Opera House and Alexander Battenberg Square. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure. Perhaps visit the Regional Museum of History, the National Transport Museum, or the ancient castle ruins of Sexaginta Prista Fortress.

Giurgiu, Bucharest

Spend the entire day in Bucharest, Romania’s hip capital. Join a guided tour of the city and take in the wide tree-lined boulevards and belle epoque buildings, then walk through the Old City centre to the Royal Court, Stavropoleos Church and the Lipscani district. The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, or perhaps you would like to wander the open-air Village Museum and gain an insight into traditional Romanian life.

Rousse, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi

Today you’ll discover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Tarnovo. With a local expert, be guided through this medieval city and uncover its rich history. At its centre, see the restored Tsarevets Fortress, citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire. After, head to the hilltops to visit Arbanasi, a village brimming with history.

Novi Sad

Get out and explore Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, on a guided tour. Afterwards, spend your free time relaxing, or perhaps visit Petrovaradin Fortress and check out its catacombs.

Kalocsa, Puszta 

INSIDER EXPERIENCE - In Puszta, enjoy a traditional horse show featuring Magyar cowboys and fine equestrian skills.

Get to know Hungary’s oldest town, Kalocsa, set right on the Danube. The town is best known for its vibrant paprika festival as well as traditional folk art and local handicrafts. Afterwards, head to Puszta for your Insider Experience.

Budapest

Return to Budapest, where you will spend the day your own way. You may wish to join an optional tour to discover the Hospital in the Rock Bunker Museum.

Your Floating Hotel

Experience Europe from a premium Travelmarvel river ship. Unpack once and wake to exciting new destinations each day

Trip Inclusions

• 14 nights cruising on a contemporary Travelmarvel river ship
• Services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director, Entertainment & Activities Coordinators, and local guides
• Includes 40 meals - 14 breakfasts, 12 lunches and 14 dinners
• Onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drink, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise
• Explore 15 towns, villages and cities
• Enjoy a traditional Hungarian horse show with Magyar cowboys in Puszta
• Cruise through the Iron Gates, one of the most spectacular natural sights along the Danube River
• Learn about life in Serbia during a visit to a local family's village and fruit orchard in Belgrade

Budapest (Overnight),Mohacs, Vukovar, Belgrade, Iron Gates, Rousse, Giurgiu, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi, Vidin, Belogradchik, Novi Sad, Kalocsa, Budapest (Overnight)

All fares are displayed in Australian  and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.