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.
Lead In Stateroom - Category (E) - $5,799* per person twin share
In partnership with:
Welcome to Budapest, the capital of Hungary and the perfect introduction to Eastern Europe. You will be met at the airport in Hungary and taken to your centrally-located hotel, with a two-night stay included in your itinerary.
Today you will embark on a guided coach tour through the boasting capital of Hungary, view the Chain Bridge that connect the Buda to the Pest side and glimpse upon Budapest's trademark - the Parliament.
Included excursion: A guided tour of Budapest
Today, you will be transferred from your hotel to your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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 the 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.
Included excursion: Walking tour of Rousse
EmeraldPLUS: Choir performance
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided hike to Ivanovo Church
DiscoverMORE: Full day tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi (extra expense)
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.
*Conditions apply. For FULL conditions, refer to brochures or website. All prices are based on per person twin share on selected itineraries, sailings & cabins. Offers valid on new bookings only & not available to use with future travel vouchers. A non-refundable booking deposit of $1,000 per person is due at time of booking. Prices quoted based on Earlybirds and Pay in Full discounts in an E Category Stateroom. EMBB based on 18/05/26 departure. Valid on new bookings until 30/10/25 & subject to availability or until sold out. Surcharges may apply on credit card transactions. Prices, dates, taxes, availability correct at 11/08/2025 & subject to change. Emerald Cruises (a division of Scenic Tours PTY LTD). ABN 85 002 715 602.
