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Enchantment of Eastern Europe

5.0/5 Based on 2 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Enchantment of Eastern Europe

5.0/5 Based on 2 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Fully Guided Locally Guided Coach River Cruise
River View
$4,595
Balcony
$5,615
Suite
$6,753
* Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
9 Days
 Cruise Starts
Budapest
 Cruise Finishes
Bucharest
9 Day Enchantment of Eastern Europe Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania
 Cruise Length
9 Days
 Cruise Starts
Budapest
 Cruise Finishes
Bucharest
9 Day Enchantment of Eastern Europe Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania
Ship
Departures
Passengers
180
Crew
51
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
EWBB-1
Ship
Departures
Passengers
180
Crew
51
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
EWBB-1

Overview

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.
A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns. 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 Bucha...read morerest.

Itinerary

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 breathtaking 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

Please book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM. (D)

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 horse show (B/L/D)

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) (B/L/D)

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 National Opera Theatre tour (extra expense)
  • DiscoverMORE Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense) (B/L/D)

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) (B/L/D)

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) (B/L/D)

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
  • DiscoverMORE Wine tasting at Leventa Complex (extra expense) (B/L/D)

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 (B)

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Great Hungarian Plain and medieval fortresses 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. (B)

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 breathtaking 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. (D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board

Please book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.

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. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Puszta Equestrian Heritage

This morning,you will get to learn more about Croatia and the daily life of locals, 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. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family
  • DiscoverMORE Vucedol Culture Museum (extra expense)

The capital of Serbia awaits you today, as a 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 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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Highlights of Belgrade
  • EmeraldPLUS Serbian folklore evening show on board
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Belgrade
  • DiscoverMORE Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense)

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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum
  • DiscoverMORE Golubac Castle visit (extra expense)

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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress
  • DiscoverMORE Traditional Bulgarian pastry making (extra expense)

Today, your Star-Ship will cruise into Rousse, where you will have the opportunity to explore the timeless charm of its elegant architecture and cultural heritage of the city that many call “The Little Vienna”.

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. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Rousse
  • EmeraldPLUS Choir performance
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Ivanovo Church
  • DiscoverMORE Full day tour of Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanasi (extra expense)

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. (B)

  • Included Excursion Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Great Hungarian Plain and medieval fortresses 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.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Dawn

Emerald Dawn
Emerald Dawn

Indulge in exquisite first class dining and amenities when you take a European river cruise on Emerald Dawn. Read more

You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS
You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS

Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more

EmeraldACTIVE
EmeraldACTIVE

Ignite your sense of adventure and explore a little further on foot or by bike. Read more

Five Star Dining On Board
Five Star Dining On Board

Enjoy the finest flavours of Europe prepared by the expert culinary team aboard your river cruise. Read more

Cultural Shows & Entertainment
Cultural Shows & Entertainment

From onboard shows to local performances, there's never a dull moment during an Emerald Cruises river cruise. Read more

Wellness and Beauty
Wellness and Beauty

Pamper and relax with a massage or facial and recharge with a yoga class on the sun deck. Read more

Trip Reviews (2) Most Recent 'Enchantment of Eastern Europe' Reviews

5.0
AVG. RATING 5.0 / 5
2 Reviews
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Wonderful experience! 0 , QLD, Australia, Aug 2024
We had a wonderful time on our 8 day Danube Delights River cruise with Emerald. The scenery was brilliant; the food incredible and we made plenty of friends to boot! Whilst we experienced some very hot weather during our trip, we really enjoyed cooling off in the on-board pool of an afternoon. Most of the local tours guides were very good. Thanks ...read more to Hannah from Global Journeys for making the books so easy.
The Majestic Rhine - Zurich to Frankfurt   4 , VIC, Australia, Jun 2023
The booking went very smoothly. The trip was fabulous and I was lucky that there was continuous sunshine. The view from the luxurious ship (Emerald Luna) was best on the last part of the trip. The highlights were Lucerne, Colmar and Strasbourg. The photograph is of Cochen Castle on the Moselle River, a short and beautiful drive from Koblenz. I ...read more enjoyed the sights, history and the wonderful food and wine.

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Europe River Cruises

Emerald Europe River Cruises (2025)

Award-winning Emerald Cruises delivers exceptional small ship river cruising through the heart of Europe, on board our fleet of luxury Star-Ships. From the North Sea to the Black Sea, revel in a European river journey like no other. Our unique collection of itineraries — showcasing seven mesmerising rivers — offers you an immersive insight into the...more incredible history, culture and traditions of the diverse regions we visit.

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