Balkan Adventure with Transylvania
Explore the best of the Balkans on a seven-night cruise along the Danube River. Discover the grand sights of Budapest, Belgrade and Bucharest, visit the fabled Bran Castle, explore charming riverside towns and villages, cruise through the spectacular Iron Gates and tour Transylvania.
- 14 Jul 2026 – 24 Jul 2026
from $5,270 pp twin share / $8,820 pp solo * - 11 Aug 2026 – 21 Aug 2026
from $5,470 pp twin share / $9,170 pp solo * - 29 Mar 2027 – 08 Apr 2027
from $5,670 pp twin share / $9,570 pp solo * - 08 Apr 2027 – 18 Apr 2027
from $5,820 pp twin share / $9,820 pp solo * - 21 Jun 2027 – 01 Jul 2027
from $5,970 pp twin share / $10,070 pp solo * - 19 Jul 2027 – 29 Jul 2027
from $5,870 pp twin share / $9,920 pp solo * - 16 Aug 2027 – 26 Aug 2027
from $5,970 pp twin share / $10,070 pp solo *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Arrive Budapest, Embark Ship:
Welcome to Budapest, the historic Hungarian capital. Once you’ve arrived at the airport, you’ll be transferred to your river ship, docked on the Danube River.
- Day 2 – Budapest:
After breakfast, join a local guide to explore the city. Admire Budapest’s grand landmarks and architectural highlights as you discover the city’s rich history.
- Day 3 – Mohács, Pécs:
From the quiet port town of Mohács, history enthusiasts may wish to travel to the ancient city of Pécs. Hungary’s fifth-largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, it offers a wealth of historic sights, including the copper-domed Downtown Candlemas Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary and the 11th-century Pécs Cathedral. This afternoon is at leisure, or you may choose to join an optional excursion to Hungary’s renowned Villány wine region for a tasting.
Enhance Your Journey – Villány Wine Tasting
Travel to Hungary’s celebrated Villány wine region, known for its red and rosé varieties. Visit a local winery for a guided tour and tasting.
- Day 4 – Osijek:
Begin a captivating exploration of Osijek, a vibrant city rich in history. Wander its cobblestone streets, where well-preserved 18th-century architecture reveals glimpses of the past, and visit landmarks such as Holy Trinity Square and the Church of Saint Michael. Later, continue to Vukovar for a tasting of regional delicacies before rejoining your ship for a leisurely afternoon cruise towards Serbia.
- Day 5 – Belgrade:
In Serbia’s capital, embark on a guided tour of Belgrade. Visit the historic Belgrade Fortress, offering sweeping views over the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, and the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Later, gain insight into local life and traditions during a special Insider Experience.
Insider Experience – Village Farm and Slivovitz Tour
Visit a local family’s village home, touring the house and barn to meet the resident farm animals. Stroll through the orchards to learn about the distillation of slivovitz — Serbia’s traditional plum brandy — and its place in everyday culture.
- Day 6 – Iron Gates:
Today, witness nature at its finest as your ship cruises through the Iron Gates, a dramatic landscape of lush forests, towering cliffs and rugged gorges. Forming part of the border between Serbia and Romania, this remarkable stretch of the Danube offers one of the river’s most spectacular cruising experiences.
- Day 7 – Ruse:
Go ashore in Ruse, one of Bulgaria’s most elegant cities. Join a walking tour to admire its Belle Époque architecture and manicured garden squares, often compared to the charm of Vienna. Along the way, pass the Monument of Liberty, the courthouse, and Battenberg Square. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure — perhaps visit the Rousse Regional Historical Museum the National Transport Museum or the ancient ruins of the Sexaginta Prista fortress.
- Day 8 – Giurgiu, Disembark Ship, Braçov:
After breakfast, travel to your hotel in Brașov, stopping en route in the town of Sinaia for free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure.
- Day 9 – Brașov:
This morning, travel to Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’. With a local guide, learn about its history as you walk through its many rooms and admire the 19th-century antiques. Return to Brașov and join a guided tour through its old streets, lined with well-preserved medieval architecture. Explore the colourful baroque buildings and Gothic masterpieces while enjoying the bustling ambiance of the cafes, restaurants and shops.
- Day 10 – Brașov, Bucharest:
Journey to Bucharest and join a guided tour of this vibrant metropolis and cultural hub. Stroll along wide, tree-lined boulevards, past elegant Belle Époque buildings, before exploring the Old City centre, with highlights including the Royal Court, Stavropoleos Church and the lively Lipscani district.
- Day 11 – Depart Bucharest:
Your adventure comes to an end today with a transfer to the airport.
Highlights
- Cruise the Danube River through the spectacular Iron Gates.
- Visit charming riverside towns and villages across 3 countries.
- Tour Transylvania and the iconic Bran Castle.
Explore the best of the Balkans on a seven-night cruise along the Danube River. Discover the grand sights of Budapest, Belgrade and Bucharest, visit the fabled Bran Castle, explore charming riverside towns and villages, cruise through the spectacular Iron Gates and tour Transylvania.
Inclusions
- Village Farm and Slivovitz Tour.
- Day 1 highlights Arrive Budapest, Embark Ship:
Welcome to Budapest, the historic Hungarian capital. Once you’ve arrived at the airport, you’ll be transferred to your river ship, docked on the Danube River.
.
- Day 2 highlights Budapest:
After breakfast, join a local guide to explore the city. Admire Budapest’s grand landmarks and architectural highlights as you discover the city’s rich history.
.
FAQs
- Hilton Garden Inn Bucharest Old Town
- Seven Nights, aboard your Travelmarvel river ship
- Two Nights, Brașov, Radisson Blu Aurum Hotel or similar
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 11 days and 10 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 14 Jul 2026 and 26 Aug 2027, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Provided by: Travel MarvelFine Print
Terms and conditions apply. Click here for more details.