Balkan Gems with Translyvannia & Bucharest

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.

Welcome to Budapest. Fly from the UK and transfer you to the luxurious APT Ostara. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship.

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.

Enjoy a morning city tour of Budapest taking in its historic monuments, including Heroes’ Square and St Stephen’s Cathedral before a visit to the Great Market Hall for some tastings of local produce.

Freedom of Choice – City Tour

Enjoy a morning city tour of Budapest taking in its historic monuments, including Heroes’ Square and St Stephen’s Cathedral before a visit to the Great Market Hall for some tastings of local produce.

Freedom of Choice – Funicular Ride

Board a funicular to Castle Hill for superb views, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion. 

Gala Welcome Dinner

Enjoy a multi-course meal with an enhanced menu.  

You have the choice as to how you spend your day.

Freedom of Choice – Pécs Sightseeing Tour

Embark on a guided walking discovery of this ancient city, which is renowned for its architectural wonders including the Early Christian Mausoleum and Szent Istvan Square.

Freedom of Choice - Villány Wine Tasting

Travel to Hungary’s renowned wine region in Villány, known for its red and rose varieties. Here, you will pay a visit to a local winery, where you will enjoy a tour and tasting.

Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride

Perhaps get active on a guided bike ride along the Danube to an ancient mill. 

Bearing battle scars from the Croatian War of Independence, Vukovar has risen strong and offers a rich history to discover. Enjoy a Signature Experience here.

Signature Experience - Eltz Manor Visit

Today, visit Eltz Manor, a castle that houses the Vukovar City Museum. Wander through the complex then be treated to a glass of sparkling wine, accompanied by classical music.

In Serbia’s capital, choose your activity.

Freedom of Choice - Guided Exploration of Belgrade

Uncover the rich history of Belgrade on this guided discovery. You will see iconic wonders, including the Belgrade Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St Sava.

Freedom of Choice - Kayak Tour

Discover Belgrade from a different perspective on this sightseeing adventure. Begin at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, where you will paddle to Great Island and Lido Beach.

Freedom of Choice - Serbian Cooking Class

Prepare to put your culinary skills to the test and feel like a local during this intriguing cooking class, showcasing the very best that Serbian cuisine has to offer. 

Cruise through the Iron Gates and experience one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders you will encounter on this cruise.

Bucharest, in southern Romania, is the country's capital and commercial center. Its iconic landmark is the massive, communist-era Palatul Parlamentului government building, which has 1,100 rooms. Nearby, the historic Lipscani district is home to an energetic nightlife scene as well as tiny Eastern Orthodox Stavropoleos Church and 15th-century Curtea Veche Palace, where Prince Vlad III (“The Impaler”) once ruled.

Your journey comes to an end today with a transfer to the airport.