Gems of Southeast Europe

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – EMBARKATION. Board the ship for your Gems of Southeast Europe cruise. (D)

MOHÁCS – PÉCS. Sail along the Danube to Mohács, then explore Pécs, where Roman history meets vibrant squares and landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica, and the Mosque of Pasha Qasim. Wander cobblestone streets or savor the rich heritage of Hungary’s Szekszárd wine region, with each moment inviting discovery of Hungary’s rich heritage.

VUKOVAR, CROATIA. Discover Vukovar on a guided city or bike tour, visiting monuments like the Vukovar water tower and the historic Eltz Manor House. In the afternoon, savor Croatian wines in the Old Cellars or explore the Vucedol Museum, where prehistoric culture comes to life.

BELGRADE. Explore Belgrade’s vibrant streets and historic landmarks, from the Nikola Tesla Museum to the majestic Kalemegdan Fortress. Adventurous passengers can join a bike tour or hike through the city, then savor Serbian brandy and local delicacies. For a more leisurely afternoon, wander Novi Sad’s charming old town and Liberty Square, immersing yourself in the region’s rich culture and tradition.

SCENIC CRUISING THROUGH THE IRON GATES. Visit the medieval Golubac Fortress before cruising through Serbia’s awe-inspiring Iron Gates, where the Danube winds between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. Marvel at the dramatic gorges and the striking mountainside carving of King Decebalus. Each view invites you to reflect on the wonders of this remarkable river corridor.

VIDIN, BULGARIA. Wander through Vidin, where ancient streets lead to the Baba Vida Fortress, a silent guardian of centuries past. Step into local life with a Bulgarian pastry and yogurt tasting, or pedal along Vidin’s sunlit lanes and let the city’s history unfold around each bend.

ROUSSE – GIURGIU, ROMANIA. Discover Veliko Tarnovo’s medieval fortress and serene Orthodox temples, or wander Rousse to marvel at the frescoed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo. Journey through the Romanian countryside to Bucharest, the “Little Paris of the East,” where elegant streets and historic squares invite leisurely exploration.

GIURGIU – DISEMBARKATION. Bid farewell to Giurgiu as you prepare for your flight home. (B)