Istanbul & Enchantment of Eastern Europe

The only city in the world that can lay claim to straddling two continents, Istanbul—once known as Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and then the Ottoman Empire—has for centuries been a bustling metropolis with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia. Istanbul embraces this enviable position with both a certain chaos and inventiveness, ever evolving as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan crossroads. It’s often said that Istanbul is the meeting point of East and West, but visitors to this city built over the former capital of two great empires are likely to be just as impressed by the juxtaposition of old and new. Office towers creep up behind historic palaces, women in chic designer outfits pass others wearing long skirts and head coverings, peddlers’ pushcarts vie with battered old Fiats and shiny BMWs for dominance of the noisy, narrow streets, and the Grand Bazaar competes with modern shopping malls. At dawn, when the muezzin's call to prayer resounds from ancient minarets, there are inevitably a few hearty revelers still making their way home from nightclubs and bars. Most visitors to this sprawling city of more than 14 million will first set foot in the relatively compact Old City, where the legacy of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires can be seen in monumental works of architecture like the brilliant Aya Sofya and the beautifully proportioned mosques built by the great architect Sinan. Though it would be easy to spend days, if not weeks, exploring the wealth of attractions in the historical peninsula, visitors should make sure also to venture elsewhere in order to experience the vibrancy of contemporary Istanbul. With a lively nightlife propelled by its young population and an exciting arts scene that’s increasingly on the international radar—thanks in part to its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2010—Istanbul is truly a city that never sleeps. It’s also a place where visitors will feel welcome: Istanbul may be on the Bosphorus, but at heart it’s a Mediterranean city, whose friendly inhabitants are effusively social and eager to share what they love most about it.

Welcome to Turkey and Istanbul, one of the most important and inspiringly beautiful cities in world history. Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel for your three-night included stay. This evening, enjoy meeting your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.   

The only city in the world that can lay claim to straddling two continents, Istanbul—once known as Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and then the Ottoman Empire—has for centuries been a bustling metropolis with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia. Istanbul embraces this enviable position with both a certain chaos and inventiveness, ever evolving as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan crossroads. It’s often said that Istanbul is the meeting point of East and West, but visitors to this city built over the former capital of two great empires are likely to be just as impressed by the juxtaposition of old and new. Office towers creep up behind historic palaces, women in chic designer outfits pass others wearing long skirts and head coverings, peddlers’ pushcarts vie with battered old Fiats and shiny BMWs for dominance of the noisy, narrow streets, and the Grand Bazaar competes with modern shopping malls. At dawn, when the muezzin's call to prayer resounds from ancient minarets, there are inevitably a few hearty revelers still making their way home from nightclubs and bars. Most visitors to this sprawling city of more than 14 million will first set foot in the relatively compact Old City, where the legacy of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires can be seen in monumental works of architecture like the brilliant Aya Sofya and the beautifully proportioned mosques built by the great architect Sinan. Though it would be easy to spend days, if not weeks, exploring the wealth of attractions in the historical peninsula, visitors should make sure also to venture elsewhere in order to experience the vibrancy of contemporary Istanbul. With a lively nightlife propelled by its young population and an exciting arts scene that’s increasingly on the international radar—thanks in part to its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2010—Istanbul is truly a city that never sleeps. It’s also a place where visitors will feel welcome: Istanbul may be on the Bosphorus, but at heart it’s a Mediterranean city, whose friendly inhabitants are effusively social and eager to share what they love most about it.

Today, you’ll have time to explore incredible Istanbul at leisure. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your explorations in this iconic Turkish city during your stay.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Istanbul
This morning, join this fascinating guided tour to explore some of Istanbul’s highlights, such as the famed Hippodrome Square, which was once the sporting and social centre of Constantinople that hosted the chariot races until the Middle Ages. You will get to see the Blue Mosque, probably one of the most famed masterpieces of Ottoman religious architecture. Standing in great prestige with its six minarets and perfectly proportioned dome, the Blue Mosque is named after its turquoise-coloured tiles made of quartz minerals. Ottoman Sultans preferred to pray in this timeless shrine due to its incomparable beauty until the empire collapsed after World War I. Afterwards, you'll continue on to the Basilica of Saint Sophia, one of the largest Christian shrines ever constructed.

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Topkapi Palace and Harem section (extra expense)
Visit the magnificent Topkapi Palace, residence of the Sultans for almost three centuries. This is located on the promontory jutting out between the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn and provides a magnificent view. The construction of the Topkapi Palace was completed between 1465 and 1478. Just inside the palace, the Harem offers a revealing look into how the Sultans of the Ottoman Empire lived. These private apartments were carefully situated so as not to be seen from the state apartments or courtyards where public affairs were conducted.

Next, you’ll visit and descend underground into the Basilica Cistern, constructed in 532 AD by Justinian to hold the water supply for the Great Palace. The Cistern is 70 metres (164 feet) wide and 140 metres (459 feet) long, with a capacity of 80,000m³ of water. Here, you’ll find an atmospheric forest of 336 beautiful columns: don’t miss the two columns featuring the head of Medusa on their bases, providing a memorable highlight.
Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Whirling Dervishes Ceremony (extra expense)
In the early evening, you’ll attend a spectacular Whirling Dervishes Ceremony at Hocapasha Cultural Centre. Founded in the 13th century, the order of Whirling Dervishes introduced cohesion and understanding of various faiths and exalted the idea of dissolving them within the pot of love of God. Before you attend the performance, your expert guide will give you the inner meaning of this special experience with all the metaphors hidden in the traditions of whirling.

The only city in the world that can lay claim to straddling two continents, Istanbul—once known as Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and then the Ottoman Empire—has for centuries been a bustling metropolis with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia. Istanbul embraces this enviable position with both a certain chaos and inventiveness, ever evolving as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan crossroads. It’s often said that Istanbul is the meeting point of East and West, but visitors to this city built over the former capital of two great empires are likely to be just as impressed by the juxtaposition of old and new. Office towers creep up behind historic palaces, women in chic designer outfits pass others wearing long skirts and head coverings, peddlers’ pushcarts vie with battered old Fiats and shiny BMWs for dominance of the noisy, narrow streets, and the Grand Bazaar competes with modern shopping malls. At dawn, when the muezzin's call to prayer resounds from ancient minarets, there are inevitably a few hearty revelers still making their way home from nightclubs and bars. Most visitors to this sprawling city of more than 14 million will first set foot in the relatively compact Old City, where the legacy of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires can be seen in monumental works of architecture like the brilliant Aya Sofya and the beautifully proportioned mosques built by the great architect Sinan. Though it would be easy to spend days, if not weeks, exploring the wealth of attractions in the historical peninsula, visitors should make sure also to venture elsewhere in order to experience the vibrancy of contemporary Istanbul. With a lively nightlife propelled by its young population and an exciting arts scene that’s increasingly on the international radar—thanks in part to its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2010—Istanbul is truly a city that never sleeps. It’s also a place where visitors will feel welcome: Istanbul may be on the Bosphorus, but at heart it’s a Mediterranean city, whose friendly inhabitants are effusively social and eager to share what they love most about it.

Continue exploring Istanbul at leisure today.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Istanbul with Bosphorus Cruise
On today's wonderful guided excursion, begin with a tour of the Underground Cistern, known by the locals as the Sunken Cistern. From here, you'll continue your explorations with the bustling atmosphere of the Spice Market, dating back to the 17th century, but still the most popular bazaar. This iconic market is frequented by locals to shop for fresh ingredients to spice up the dishes prepared in the kitchens of Istanbul. Afterwards, you'll experience a unique aspect of the city by boarding a private boat for an unforgettable cruise on the waters of the Bosphorus. During your cruise on this famed strait running between the two continents, your guide will share with you all the legends and myths about the Bosphorus and its impressive mansions and palaces. As well as the scenery of the historical edifices, you'll be mesmerised by the iconic skyline of Istanbul, ornamented with domes and minarets of Byzantine and Ottoman cultures.

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Turkish Bath at Roxelana (extra expense)
Enjoy the Turkish Bath tradition at Baths of Roxelana. The Turks have been celebrating the act of bathing as a precious cultural institution for many centuries. The Baths of Roxelana were established in 1556. After renovation, it has brought a new interpretation to the age-old Turkish bath tradition. The interior decoration of this unique property reflects Ottoman tastes with its silk fabrics covering handmade furniture and curtains, which is a true reflection of how the royal baths of the Sultans’ Palace used to look like.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

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Street Food tour (extra expense)
Begin with a stroll across the low-lying Galata Bridge, where, for generations, fishermen have been hauling in their daily catch. Stalls selling everything from jewellery to simits (Turkish bagels) line the bridge. On the other side in the Beyoglu district, you'll encounter Karakoy Gulluoglu, a shop that makes the best baklava in Istanbul. Indulge in this sweet delight, a traditional Turkish pastry made of several layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and sweetened with honey. Walk off your sweet treat by hiking up the hill to Galatasaray, a neighbourhood that is home to Galatasaray S.K., one of Turkey's most famous football teams. Jump on the tram at Istiklal Caddesi, the city's grand bustling boulevard lined with shops and restaurants. Hop off and explore this street as your guide explains the area's history and points out landmarks and famous buildings.
Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 4 hours

The only city in the world that can lay claim to straddling two continents, Istanbul—once known as Constantinople, capital of the Byzantine and then the Ottoman Empire—has for centuries been a bustling metropolis with one foot in Europe and the other in Asia. Istanbul embraces this enviable position with both a certain chaos and inventiveness, ever evolving as one of the world’s most cosmopolitan crossroads. It’s often said that Istanbul is the meeting point of East and West, but visitors to this city built over the former capital of two great empires are likely to be just as impressed by the juxtaposition of old and new. Office towers creep up behind historic palaces, women in chic designer outfits pass others wearing long skirts and head coverings, peddlers’ pushcarts vie with battered old Fiats and shiny BMWs for dominance of the noisy, narrow streets, and the Grand Bazaar competes with modern shopping malls. At dawn, when the muezzin's call to prayer resounds from ancient minarets, there are inevitably a few hearty revelers still making their way home from nightclubs and bars. Most visitors to this sprawling city of more than 14 million will first set foot in the relatively compact Old City, where the legacy of the Byzantine and Ottoman empires can be seen in monumental works of architecture like the brilliant Aya Sofya and the beautifully proportioned mosques built by the great architect Sinan. Though it would be easy to spend days, if not weeks, exploring the wealth of attractions in the historical peninsula, visitors should make sure also to venture elsewhere in order to experience the vibrancy of contemporary Istanbul. With a lively nightlife propelled by its young population and an exciting arts scene that’s increasingly on the international radar—thanks in part to its stint as the European Capital of Culture in 2010—Istanbul is truly a city that never sleeps. It’s also a place where visitors will feel welcome: Istanbul may be on the Bosphorus, but at heart it’s a Mediterranean city, whose friendly inhabitants are effusively social and eager to share what they love most about it.

This morning, after breakfast, you'll depart Istanbul and be transferred to the airport for your onward flight to Romania and its fascinating capital, Bucharest. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to your centrally located hotel in Bucharest for a one-night included stay before commencing your exciting river cruise along the legendary Danube.

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.

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.

Explore Bucharest this morning. After your insightful tour, you’ll be transferred from Bucharest to Giurgiu, on the banks of the Danube, where a warm welcome from your captain and crew awaits on board your Emerald Star-Ship.

Today, your Emerald Star-Ship will cruise into Rousse, Bulgaria’s most elegant city. This important port on the Danube is often called ‘Little Vienna’ thanks to its elegant Belle Epoque and Neo Baroque architecture, leafy squares and wide boulevards. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Rousse
Be immersed in history as you wander through Bulgari’s ‘Little Vienna’. Admire the Court House, City Hall, Opera Building, the main shopping street Alexandrovska and St. Trinity Church, then enjoy coffee and cake at a local restaurant.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Ivanovo Church
Transfer to the River Lom Nature Park for an active hike to the World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo. Dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, these remarkable structures are lined with exquisite frescoes representing biblical scenes.

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Full day Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi extra expense)
Visit Veliko Tarnovo and learn about its rich history as the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. This medieval city was built atop three hills, and its fortifications and cobbled streets will delight history lovers. Nearby, Arbanasi sits on a high plateau overlooking the Yantra. Each street in the area is lined with traditional houses, and old churches offer centuries of exploration.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 8.5 hours 

Viticulture is at the heart of the most western town in Bulgaria, where sweeping vineyards pepper the banks of the Danube and winemaking has prospered for generations. Vidin is one of Bulgaria’s oldest riverside towns, beginning life as a Thracian settlement more than 2,000 years ago, and is home to Baba Vida, a preserved medieval fortress in the country.

Included Excursion
Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress
Get an introduction to the best of Vidin’s viticulture, as you stroll through a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting session of their local wines like gamza, the region’s signature pale red varietal.

Later, visit Baba Vida, a medieval fortress whose name can be translated to mean ‘Granny Vida’.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress
Transfer to Belogradchick Rock Fortress Park for a guided hike to its ancient mountaintop fortress. First built when the region was part of the Roman Empire, it has been used and extended in the 14th century and by the Ottomans in the 19th century, right up until the Serbo-Bulgarian War in 1885.

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Traditional Bulgarian pastry making (extra expense)
Watch your host prepare a traditional Bulgarian banitsa pastry, before joining a demonstration and learning to make your own. Banitsa is a very popular Bulgarian dish, consisting of dough sheets with various fillings, the most popular being white cheese and eggs. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting, served with a bowl of the famous Lactobacillus Bulgaricus yoghurt.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes

Relax on board as you cruise through the Iron Gates, a picturesque narrow gorge that meanders between the Carpathian Mountains and the European Alps. Look out for the huge rock carving of Decebalus, the last King of Dacia.

Later, cross into Serbia and dock in the town of Donji Milanovac, set on the right bank of the Danube. Surrounded by spectacular landscapes and with a rich heritage, it’s the gateway to one of Europe’s most important archaeological sites.

Included Excursion
Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum
Visit the Palaeolithic site of Lepenski Vir, the oldest urban settlement in Europe. Enjoy learning about the significance of this archaeological site, which changed modern understandings of the early Stone Age, and its illustrious history, spanning over eight millennia.

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Golubac Castle Visit (extra expense)
Take a walking tour of the medieval Golubac Fortress. The castle was built at the entrance to the Iron Gates, at the point where the Danube is the widest and then runs into the gorge of the Carpathian Mountains. An exceptional strategic point, it enabled easy control of all the land and waterways that connected the East and the West, whereas the steep and inaccessible cliffs on which the fortress was built offered natural protection.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

The Serbian capital Belgrade is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Europe and has lived a multitude of lives over the last 2,000 years. It has been shaped by conflict and still bears the scars of bombings from World War II through to the 1990s. At the same time, this gritty centre is filled with beautiful architecture, engaging street art and a legendary cafe culture that can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire.

This evening, you will be invited to the Horizon Lounge, where a traditional Serbian folklore show will provide spectacular entertainment.

Included Excursion
Highlights of Belgrade
This city tour introduces you to the highlights of one of Europe’s oldest cities. Relax as your coach takes you through the centre of this peaceful city to see the symmetrical façade of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the world’s largest church buildings, the Parliament Building, Republic Square, City Hall and more. Finish with a drive through Belgrade’s wealthiest neighbourhoods and past Tito’s Mausoleum. 

EmeraldPLUS
Serbian folklore evening show on board
Watch local musicians and dancers perform traditional dances from around Serbia while wearing authentic, colourful costumes. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour in Belgrade
Cycle through Belgrade with a local guide to experience the city’s landmarks and natural beauty along the Danube. Learn about the diversity of the local area as well as the history of the city and its people, including the former country of Yugoslavia. Highlights include the Belgrade Waterfront, Staro Sajmiste (former concentration camp), and Ada Island. 

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Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense)
Learn the story of Serbian-American Nikola Tesla at the intriguing museum dedicated to the life and work of one of the world's most famous inventors. You’ll see magnificent working models of Tesla's machines, his various personal items and his visions of the future.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

The second-largest city in Serbia, Novi Sad, has a relaxed atmosphere and lively spirit that sets it apart from other major cities in the region. You’ll find the locals relaxing in leafy parks, swimming in the river and sharing drinks in busy laneway bars. It’s compact and easily walkable, dotted with grand public buildings, excellent museums and the striking Petrovaradin Fortress. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Novi Sad
Set out on an easy walking tour of the city with a local guide. See the market, Orthodox Cathedral, City Hall, Catholic Cathedral, and enjoy a visit to the Synagogue.

EmeraldPLUS
Home-hosted lunch with a Serbian family
Visit the home of a local Serbian family and join them for a traditional lunch. During the meal, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss Serbian traditions and the daily life of the people. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour in Novi Sad
Discover Novi Sad on two wheels with this guided e-bike tour. Ride along the Danube promenade and pass iconic landmarks. Learn about the city’s history, culture and local life from your guide while enjoying a leisurely cycling pace.

This afternoon, dock in Ordas. This tiny village on the left bank of the Danube is in one of Hungary’s most fertile agricultural regions, which is famous for its paprika.

This evening, enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show and dinner on board as you cruise towards Budapest.

EmeraldPLUS
Puszta Equestrian Heritage
Travel to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, for a traditional performance showcasing the exceptional equestrian skills of the Magyar cowboys. Relax as you watch their spectacular horse parade and witness their exercise drills, most of which were practised in preparation for wartime. 

EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner, then a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.

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 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.

After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of traditional equestrian performances and ancient viticulture on the banks of the Danube with you.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.