Enchantment of Eastern Europe & Transylvania

12 nights from £3,216pp departing Thursday 30th May 2024

Five countries, all unique in their own way, accompany the Danube on its journey towards the furthest reaches of Eastern Europe. In Kalocsa, visit a Puszta Horse Show, enjoy lunch in the home of a local Croatian family in Osijek and, in Belgrade, enjoy a guided city tour, before a Serbian folklore show on board. Taste Romanian wine, attend a choir concert in Arbanasi, and journey by road to Bucharest. Plus enjoy an extended stay in Transylvania.

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	30th30	MayMay	202424	Budapest, Hungary, embark on 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. Fly from the UK to Budapest. Welcome to Budapest, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship to be greeted by your friendly captain and crew. This afternoon, enjoy plenty of free time to explore Eastern Europe’s liveliest city at your leisure. The ‘Pearl on the Danube’ is a truly breath-taking sight, where dozens of lights adorn the stone bridges that cross the mighty Danube, separating both sides of the city. This evening, enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show on board, followed by a traditional dinner. EmeraldPLUS A traditional Hungarian folklore show
	31st31	MayMay	202424	Kalocsa, Hungary
This morning, we’ll reach Kalocsa, best known for its vibrant paprika festivals. You’ll venture to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, for a traditional performance showcasing the exceptional equestrian skills of the Magyar cowboys. Sit back and enjoy the show, as you watch their spectacular horse parade and witness their exercise drills. Tonight, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to relax and meet your fellow guests during the welcome dinner & reception. EmeraldPLUS Puszta Equestian Heritage
	1st01	JunJun	202424	Vukovar, Croatia
This morning, we will drive to Osijek, a historic university town full of leafy boulevards and promenades. Today, you will get to learn more about Croatia and the daily life of locals, before you embark on a walk around Osijek Fortress, nestled in the centre of the romantic old town. Our EmeraldPLUS excursion will bring you to the home of a Croatian family to share a typical meal from the area while getting to know the local culture and customs. EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family Included Excursion Guided walking tour of Osijek Fortress DiscoverMORE Vucedol Culture Museum (extra expense)
	2nd02	JunJun	202424	Belgrade, Serbia
The capital of Serbia awaits you today, as a city tour introduces you to the highlights of one of Europe’s oldest cities, including Belgrade Fortress. Relax as your coach takes you through the centre of this peaceful city and witness the symmetrical façade of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the world’s largest church buildings. Stop for a tour of the Museum of Yugoslavia or learn about the history of Belgrade during a guided bike tour of the city. This evening, relax in the Horizon Lounge with a traditional Serbian folklore show providing 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)
	3rd03	JunJun	202424	Golubac, Serbia
In eastern Serbia, within the Majdanpek municipality, the town of Donji Milanovac sits on the right bank of the Danube. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Palaeolithic site of Lepenski Vir on an included excursion. Enjoy learning about the importance of this archaeological site and its illustrious history, spanning more than 8 millennia. The day ends as we sail through the Iron Gates, a picturesque narrow gorge that meanders between the Carpathian Mountains and the European Alps. Included Excursion Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum DiscoverMORE Golubac Castle visit (extra expense)
	3rd03	JunJun	202424	Donji Milanovac, Serbia
	4th04	JunJun	202424	Vidin, Bulgaria
This morning, we’ll arrive in Vidin, a beautiful town in north-west Bulgaria, renowned for its wine production. Your included tour will introduce you to the best of Vidin’s viticulture, as you stroll through a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting session of their produce. Later, venture to Baba Vida, a medieval fortress whose name can be translated to mean ‘Granny Vida’. Alternatively, hike to Belogradchik Fortress, a well-preserved stronghold that sits against a series of impressive rock formations. 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)
	5th05	JunJun	202424	Ruse, Bulgaria
Today, your Star-Ship will cruise into Rousse, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit Veliko Tarnovo. The former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire, this medieval city was built atop three hills and its fortifications and cobbled streets are certain to delight history lovers. Nearby, Arbanasi sits on a high plateau overlooking the Yantra River. Each street in the area is lined with traditional houses, and old churches offer centuries of exploration during your guided tour. Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of churches, chapels, and monasteries. Tonight, your crew will welcome you on board for a farewell dinner. EmeraldPLUS Choir concert in Arbanasi EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Ivanovo Church Included Excursion Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi
	5th05	JunJun	202424	Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
	6th06	JunJun	202424	Giurgiu, Romania
This morning, relax and enjoy the passing scenery as we drive towards Bucharest, including the Romanian city of Giurgiu, set amongst the mud flats and marshes of the Danube. Visit the Spring Palace and the private residence of Nicolae Ceausescu, before enjoying free time to explore the city at leisure. Learn about Bucharest’s vibrant history on a guided coach tour, passing by the Palace of Parliament. This evening, settle into the comfortable surrounds of your hotel before you consider going for a stroll down one of the wide avenues or leafy boulevards that give Bucharest a distinctly French feel. Included Excursion Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace
	6th06	JunJun	202424	Bucharest, Romania
	7th07	JunJun	202424	Bucharest, Romania
Today, 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. Included Excursion Visit of Bran Castle en route to Brasov
	7th07	JunJun	202424	Brasov, Romania
	8th08	JunJun	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)
	9th09	JunJun	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)
	10th10	JunJun	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
	10th10	JunJun	202424	Bucharest, Romania
	11th11	JunJun	202424	Bucharest, Romania, disembark the Emerald Luna
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 the Great Hungarian Plain and medieval fortresses with you.

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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Our Fusion packages are all ABTA & ATOL protected ensuring that your booking is safe with us

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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*

	Oceanview	Balcony	Suite
	(All prices are £GBP per person)
Thu 16th May 202416 May 24	from 3,831
Mon 9th Sep 202409 Sep 24	Please call for availability