Balkan Discovery 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an extraordinary multi-day tour through the heart of Eastern Europe, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the majestic cityscape of Budapest to the ancient fortresses of Serbia and the breathtaking landscapes of Bulgaria, each day promises new adventures and discoveries. Enjoy luxurious accommodations onboard your Suite Ship® and savor exquisite meals as you cruise along the Danube River. With guided tours, cultural experiences, and optional excursions, this journey offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Join us for an unforgettable voyage through the captivating regions of Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, and beyond.
Included
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Cruise ship
Open–Air Balconies® and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama SuitesSM
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane® bath products & hairdryer
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
Individual climate control and in-room safe
Full-size closet and mirror
Additional under-bed storage
Well-stocked mini-bar
Avalon Passion: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite, Avalon Illumination: Avalon Deluxe Stateroom ,Panorama Suite ,Royal Suite
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Map
Attractions
St Mark Orthodox Church
Belogradchik Fortress
Deliblatska Peščara
Baba Vida Fortress
Hungarian Parliament Building
Museum of Srem
Vukovar water tower
Golubac FortressDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to Hungary
- Budapest - Arrival day
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- Hungarian Parliament Building
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Begin your enchanting journey in the heart of Hungary, Budapest. Arrive by 2 pm to board your luxurious Suite Ship® and settle in for an unforgettable cruise. As you glide past the iconic Parliament Building, enjoy a sumptuous dinner onboard. Overnight, the ship will set sail towards Vukovar, promising a night of serene cruising.
Day 2 – History and Beer in Vukovar
- Grad Vukovar
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- Vukovar water tower
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Immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Vukovar's history with a guided walking tour. Discover the city's cultural heritage and savor a local beer tasting. After a delightful lunch onboard, cruise to Ilok, where you can explore its medieval fortress and indulge in a wine tasting experience. Dock overnight in Novi Sad.
Day 3 – The Athens of Serbia
The Athens of Serbia
- Museum of Srem
- Petrovaradin Fortress's Clock
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Explore Novi Sad, Serbia's second-largest city, known for its Austro-Hungarian architecture. Choose between a guided city tour or a scenic hike to Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, delve into the world of beekeeping at the Honey Museum. Conclude your day with live entertainment onboard as you cruise to Belgrade.
Day 4 – Fortresses and Folklore in Belgrade
Fortresses and Folklore in Belgrade
- St Mark Orthodox Church
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Discover the vibrant city of Belgrade, where the Danube and Sava Rivers meet. Embark on a guided sightseeing tour to see the magnificent Saint Sava Church. Spend your afternoon exploring Knez Mihailova Street's lively cafes and shops. Consider an optional excursion for a traditional Bohemian dinner in Skadarlija. Cruise overnight to Golubac.
Day 5 – Ancient Artifacts and the Iron Gates
Ancient Artifacts and the Iron Gates
- Deliblatska Peščara
- Golubac Fortress
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Step back in time at Golubac Fortress, a medieval marvel with a storied past. Alternatively, visit the Mesolithic site of Lepenski Vir, offering breathtaking views of the Danube Gorge. Sail through the dramatic Iron Gates Gorge, a natural wonder marking the border between Serbia and Romania. Cruise towards Vidin for an overnight stay.
Day 6 – Rocks, Ruins, and Balkan Beauty
Rocks, Ruins, and Balkan Beauty
- Belogradchik Fortress
- Baba Vida Fortress
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Uncover the secrets of Vidin with a guided tour of Baba Vida Fortress. Marvel at the stunning Belogradchik Rocks, sculpted by nature over millions of years. Alternatively, delve into Bulgaria's winemaking history with a tour and tasting at a local winery. Cruise to Rousse for an overnight docking.
Day 7 – Fortresses and Folklore in Rousse
Fortresses and Folklore in Rousse
- Ivanili Waterfall
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Cycle through Rousse's old town or embark on a full-day tour to Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's ancient capital. Discover Arbanassi's Revival architecture and visit the Holy Trinity Church. Enjoy a Bulgarian folklore show onboard as you cruise to Oltenita overnight.
Day 8 – Farewell in Bucharest
- Bucharest - Departure day
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Conclude your memorable journey with a hearty breakfast onboard. Disembark in Bucharest, where your cruise adventure ends. Ensure your flights depart after noon to fully enjoy your final morning in this vibrant city.
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