Transylvania & Enchantment of Eastern Europe

12 nights departing Wednesday 11th Sep 2024

Enjoy a three-night stay in Transylvania, home to fairytale castles and Dracula folklore tales. Then journey to Bucharest, the vibrant Romanian capital, before beginning your cruise in Arbanasi where you will attend a choir concert. Embark on a guided city tour of Belgrade, returning to your Star-Ship for a traditional Serbian folklore evening show. In Osijek, visit a local Croatian family for home-hosted lunch and then spend your day in rural Hungary for a Puszta Horse Show in Kalocsa.

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	11th11	SepSep	202424	Bucharest, Romania, embark on the Emerald Luna
Fly from the UK to Bucharest. When you arrive in Bucharest, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your perfectly situated hotel, including a one-night stay in Bucharest.
	12th12	SepSep	202424	Bucharest, Romania
After breakfast, your Transylvanian adventure will begin. You will board coaches to the town of Brasov, a harmonious mixture of traditional medieval charm and modern city life, located in the centre of Transylvania. On your way you will visit the world-famous Bran Castle, otherwise known as Dracula's Castle - the perfect setting for a vampire lord. Although there is no clear evidence that links Vlad the Impaler (Dracula) to Bran Castle, much of the myth surrounding Prince Vlad is true. Dracula ruled this extraordinarily beautiful place for a couple of decades in the 15th century. Rising above on a rocky hilltop, Bran Castle visit is sure to amaze with its remarkable architecture and mystical history. Included Excursion Visit of Bran Castle en route to Brasov
	12th12	SepSep	202424	Brasov, Romania
	13th13	SepSep	202424	Brasov, Romania
Join us today in a panoramic city tour of Brasov, including a visit of the First Romanian School Museum and the St. Nicholas Church, leading learning centers of the Romanian community for centuries. The museum has been a centre for Romanian teaching and book printing for centuries. The oldest Romanian bible (printed on goats’ skin) is one of the many fascinating discoveries included in your visit. You will continue with a guided walk in Brasov's historical medieval downtown learning about its German heritage. The largest Gothic church east of Vienna, Black Church, is part of this immersive experience as well. Included Excursion City tour of Brasov DiscoverMORE The UNESCO fortified Church Prejmer (extra expense)
	14th14	SepSep	202424	Brasov, Romania
While being in the heart of Transylvania, you may want to explore on own some downtime in Brasov, visiting the Old Town Square, wander through the narrow colourful streets, or hike up Mount Tampa. DiscoverMORE Sighisoara & Viscri Village (extra expense)
	15th15	SepSep	202424	Brasov, Romania
After breakfast, check out at the hotel and board coaches for a scenic drive back to Bucharest crossing south the Carpathian Mountains to reach Sinaia. Known as “Pearl of the Carpathians”, it is also the home of one of Romania’s most beautiful palaces - Peles Castle. This stunning building was built by the first King of Romania, Carol I of Hohenzollern – Sigmaringen, and used as summer residence. Inaugurated in 1883 the castle has 160 rooms with opulent decor and invaluable collections of art and furniture. Included Excursion Peles Castle visit with lunch
	15th15	SepSep	202424	Bucharest, Romania
	16th16	SepSep	202424	Bucharest, Romania
After enjoying the plush surrounds of your hotel this morning, you'll have the opportunity to learn about some of Bucharest’s most iconic attractions during a guided drive around the city, including a visit to the Spring Palace. Then, you’ll have time to explore the leafy boulevards at your leisure. 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 Cruises Star-Ship. Included Excursion Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace
	16th16	SepSep	202424	Giurgiu, Romania
	17th17	SepSep	202424	Ruse, Bulgaria
Today, you'll have the opportunity to learn about Bulgarian history, as you explore the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire with your local guide. On your included tour, you’ll have the chance to traverse its cobbled streets and observe its impressive medieval fortifications. Afterwards, you’ll be taken to neighbouring Arbanasi, situated overlooking the Yantra River, a tributary of the Danube that is known for its many scenic gorges. Explore the past with your local guide, as your tour visits a number of traditional houses and ancient churches. If you would prefer to do something more active, then instead, you could choose to embark on a guided hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, known for their famous 14th-century frescoes. Tonight, you’ll have the chance to mingle with your fellow guests while enjoying the welcome reception and dinner. EmeraldPLUS Choir concert in Arbanasi EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Ivanovo Church Included Excursion Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi
	17th17	SepSep	202424	Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
	18th18	SepSep	202424	Vidin, Bulgaria
Viticulture forms the heart of life in the most western town in Bulgaria, where sun-kissed vineyards pepper the banks of the Danube and winemaking has prospered for generations. Your included tour of Vidin will introduce you to a peaceful side of life that revolves around wine, as you weave through a local vineyard and learn about their produce, before enjoying a tasting session. Afterwards, your local guide will take you to Baba Vida, a fortress that was originally constructed at the turn of the 10th century and is known for being one of only a handful of beautifully preserved castles in the country. If you’re feeling more active, you can instead choose to embark on a guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress, located on the northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains. EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress Included Excursion Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress DiscoverMORE Traditional Bulgarian pastry making (extra expense)
	19th19	SepSep	202424	Donji Milanovac, Serbia
This morning, relax on board and admire your surroundings as we sail along the mighty Danube to Donji Milanovac, where a visit to the Lepenski Vir archaeological site, one of Europe’s best-hidden gems, awaits. Located right on the riverbanks, the Palaeolithic site is one of the most important of its kind on the continent, effortlessly capturing more than eight millennia of history. Archaeologists from around the world have used this site to learn about a number of different Stone Age settlements and the way that prehistoric cultures moved across Europe. Included Excursion Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum DiscoverMORE Golubac Castle Visit (extra expense)
	19th19	SepSep	202424	Golubac, Serbia
	20th20	SepSep	202424	Belgrade, Serbia
Serbia’s vibrant capital is yours to explore today. Your local guide will take you on a coach tour through the heart of the city, highlighting its many landmarks and the iconic Belgrade Fortress. The coach will pass through the centre, where you’ll notice reminders of the country’s turbulent history, set amongst the quiet and peaceful streets. Witness the ornate beauty of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest religious buildings in Europe, before stopping for a tour of the Museum of Yugoslavia. If you’re feeling more active, then you may instead choose to learn about Belgrade’s history during a guided bike tour. This evening, you will be invited to the Horizon Lounge where a traditional Serbian folklore show will provide spectacular entertainment. EmeraldPLUS Serbian folklore evening show on board EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Belgrade Included Excursion Guided tour of Belgrade DiscoverMORE Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense) DiscoverMORE National Opera Theatre (extra expense)
	21st21	SepSep	202424	Vukovar, Croatia
Today, you will have the opportunity to explore one of Croatia’s postcard-worthy historic university towns, full of delightful waterfront promenades and quaint cobbled streets. Embark on a guided walk around Osijek Fortress, a true icon in the romantic Old Town, before a truly unforgettable EmeraldPLUS experience, as you’re invited into the home of a local family for a traditional Croatian lunch. Enjoy an evening of sailing further up the Danube towards Hungary, before joining your fellow passengers for a farewell dinner. EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family Included Excursion Guided walking tour of Osijek Fortress DiscoverMORE Vucedol Culture Museum (extra expense)
	21st21	SepSep	202424	Osijek, Croatia
	22nd22	SepSep	202424	Kalocsa, Hungary
In the morning, we will sail to Kalocsa, a place known for its paprika production and colourful festivals. Discovering Hungary’s culture is an easy task in Kalocsa, where traditional folk art can be found around every corner and old traditions pave the way for daily life. Later, you will venture to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, to visit a traditional Puszta horse farm. Your guide will teach you about the traditional performances of the Magyar cowboys, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness some of their exceptional equestrian skills first-hand as they showcase some of their exercise drills. This evening, enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show on board, followed by a traditional dinner. EmeraldPLUS Puszta Equestrian Heritage EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
	23rd23	SepSep	202424	Budapest, Hungary, disembark the Emerald Luna
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 for your flight to the UK, taking memories of a traditional Puszta equestrian performance and 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.

Emerald Luna

Launch Year

2021

Tonnage

3,544

Capacity

180

Cabins

Accessible

Sun Deck

Horizon Deck

Vista Deck

Riviera Deck

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

Your Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite offers everything you could possibly need throughout your cruise, and more. You’ll be surrounded by elegant décor and opulent, comfortable furnishings, as you unwind in your home-away-from-home. Relax on your balcony as the stunning landscapes pass by, and transform it from an indoor to an outdoor space with ease, as the floor-to-ceiling window lowers to a halfway point at the touch of a button. Enjoy the river breeze from your comfortable chair, enjoying a good book or the unfolding vistas. Treat yourself to a drink from your suite’s minibar, or use it to keep your complimentary bottle of water chilled, or for any souvenirs that require it.

When it’s time to retire to bed, you can look forward to the exceptional comfort of your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luxurious linens. Treat yourself to an indulgent shower with luxury toiletries, to really prepare yourself for an excellent night’s sleep.

Of course, keeping in touch with your loved ones is really easy. Every suite has its own telephone, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi being available throughout the Star-Ship.

Emerald Single Stateroom - Single Occupancy Only

Each ship offers two Emerald Single Staterooms featuring picture windows and the same high quality facilities as all other cabins. With their deluxe single bed, they provide excellent value for money for single guests.

Emerald Stateroom

An Emerald Stateroom is home to all the amenities you need to settle into your home-away-from-home. A great size picture window lets in the perfect amount of light, welcoming in the golden summer sunshine, or the winter sun during cooler months.

Comfort is of the highest importance, so each room features individual climate control, allowing you to personalise your room’s temperature to suit your preferences and the time of year you’re cruising.

We’ve designed our bathrooms as a relaxing retreat to retire to after an exciting day exploring. Enjoy a sumptuous shower complete with indulgent toiletries, as well as a hairdryer, all before settling into your queen or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luscious linens, as you enjoy a movie on your flat screen TV and infotainment system with, perhaps, a nightcap from your mini-bar.

If you wish to stay in contact with loved ones throughout your trip, you can do so using your in-suite telephone or our free Wi-Fi available throughout the ship.

Grand Balcony Suite

Staying in the Emerald Grand Balcony Suite makes waking up and going to sleep a dream. Open your balcony, with the simple press of a button, to let in the river breeze on a lazy morning, as the unrivalled comfort of your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed, dressed with luxurious linens, encourages you to lie in that little bit longer.

Wake up to the luxurious surrounds of your stylish bathroom, enjoying a revitalising shower, complete with sumptuous toiletries. Then, what could be better than having a continental breakfast brought to your door to enjoy on your own private balcony? Complimentary bathrobes and slippers make lounging comfortable, and your own in-suite Nespresso™ machine means you can sip a fresh coffee as you ponder your itinerary and what the day has to offer.

Select your preferred pillow from our extensive menu and enjoy an exceptionally comfortable night’s sleep, or simply relax as you watch a film on your suite’s flat screen TV and infotainment system, during some down time. Individual climate control enables your room to stay at the right temperature to suit you, whether you’re sailing in the warmer summer months, or the cooler winter.

And, stay in touch with family and friends using your in-suite telephone or make the most of complimentary Wi-Fi for contacting them by your preferred method.

Eight suites available on-board Emerald Sky, Emerald Star, Emerald Destiny, Emerald Sun and Emerald Dawn sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Four available on Emerald Liberté sailing through France.

Owners One-Bedroom Suite

Some of the most sumptuous suites on European waterways, our Owners One-Bedroom Suite has it all. A separate lounge and bedroom area allows the luxury of space, from which to enjoy your complimentary continental breakfast in the morning, a drink from your fully stocked minibar or after-dinner sweet treats before bed.

Your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed will be draped in high quality linens, for the perfect night’s sleep, plus you’ll have the pleasure of selecting your preferred pillow from our extensive menu. Get comfortable for the night after a busy day exploring, and prepare for the next as you unwind with a film on your flat screen TV and infotainment system in true comfort.

A walk-in wardrobe makes unpacking even more of a dream. A great space to keep all your belongings and outfits for special occasions, such as your exclusive dinner at the Captain’s Table. You’ll even have the option to have four items laundered a day to ensure that favourite dress or suit is in the best possible condition for your event.

In the morning, enjoy the perfect wake-up call with a fresh coffee from your in-suite Nespresso™ machine. Sip it on the balcony, wrapped in the comfort of your Emerald Cruises bathrobe and slippers after a refreshing shower in your stylish in-suite bathroom, enhanced by luxurious toiletries.

You’ll have so much to tell your loved ones back home, so we’ve made keeping in contact really easy. Not only will you have an in-suite telephone, but complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Star-Ship and an iPad means you can choose your favourite method of communication, whenever the moment suits.

Four suites available on-board Emerald Sky, Emerald Star, Emerald Destiny, Emerald Sun and Emerald Dawn sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Two available on Emerald Liberté sailing through France and Emerald Radiance sailing in Portugal.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Reflections Restaurant

Reflections Restaurant is our elegant dining room, serving you breakfast, lunch and dinner in intimate, contemporary surrounds. Savour chef-prepared dishes inspired by the destinations you’re travelling through, all at no extra cost.

Sky Barbecue

The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.

The Terrace

The Terrace is our indoor and outdoor casual dining area, where you can enjoy a selection of light breakfasts and lunches. Perfect for those sunny days on the river.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

One of the greatest innovations on-board Emerald Luna, Sun or Dawn is our daytime pool and bar, which transforms into an evening cinema on selected nights during your river cruise.

Horizon Bar and Lounge

Welcome to the Horizon Bar, the main lounge area on-board Emerald Luna, Sun or Dawn. Here, in contemporary surrounds, you can relax, unwind and make new friends while enjoying a tipple or two from our comprehensive bar menu. You’ll also be able to enjoy unlimited access to our complimentary coffee machine.

Sun Deck

Sit back and enjoy the inspiring views of Europe from the Sun Deck, an open-air space on the top deck of Emerald Luna, Sun or Dawn that’s yours to enjoy throughout your cruise. Complete with deck chairs, games area and walking track, it’s a great place to relax and unwind.

Reception

Whether you want to buy a drinks package, learn about our optional excursions or simply talk with our friendly and attentive crew, the reception is the place to go for questions and enquiries during your time on-board.

Games Area and Golf Putting Green

Practice your putting technique or challenge new friends to a game of noughts and crosses in Emerald Luna, Sun or Dawn’s dedicated games area. Located on the open-air Sun Deck, it’s the perfect way to spend your downtime on-board. Wellness classes and yoga/Pilates sessions can also be enjoyed on the Sun Deck.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

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Holiday Summary

	Return flights including luggage allowance
	Overseas Transfers
	12 nights cruising on the Danube
	Return airport transfers
	Wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner
	Gratuities Included
	One complimentary shore excursion in every port
	Bikes for passenger use
	Free Wi-Fi included
	Port Taxes and Fees
	ABTA and ATOL Protection*