Black Sea Explorer with Transylvania - Brasov > Sighisoara (Start Budapest, End Bucharest, 2024, 15 Days)

Welcome to Budapest, the capital of Hungary, known for its diverse architecture and vibrant nightlife. The city, divided by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, is a treasure trove of styles ranging from Gothic to Art Nouveau. After your arrival, check into your luxury hotel (or similar) for a two-night stay.

Join a sightseeing tour of Budapest, exploring the city's magic by coach and foot. Start your tour on the Buda side, visiting the Várkert Bazár, then cross the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side to see Széchenyi and Elisabeth squares. End your day with a delightful dinner at a local restaurant before returning to your hotel.

In the afternoon, you'll board your Scenic Space-Ship. At the evening's welcome reception, raise a glass to the wonderful cruise journey that lies ahead.

Spend the morning on board as you sail towards Kalocsa, a historic Hungarian town known for its rich folk art and rural charm. Arrive in Kalocsa at lunchtime and choose between two Scenic Freechoice excursions: exploring Hungarian traditions or witnessing a traditional horse show. Both options offer a deep dive into the local culture and traditions.

Arrive in the Croatian town of Osijek, a city with a rich history. Choose from three Scenic Freechoice excursions: a guided walking tour of Osijek, a boat cruise at Kopacki Rit, or a culinary experience with 'Ancestry of the Kitchen'. After your morning exploration, visit the home of a local Croatian family for an authentic lunch, immersing yourself in the local culture and cuisine.

Arrive in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, known as the 'Door to Central Europe'. Choose from four Scenic Freechoice activities: a guided city tour with extended free time, a guided city tour including Tito's Memorial, a cycling tour along the Danube, or a walking tour with a local student. In the evening, attend a classical concert at St. Sava Temple, a unique cultural experience.

Today, cruise through the spectacular Iron Gates, a stretch of the Danube that serves as the natural border between Serbia and Romania. Relax in your suite or mingle with other guests in the Panorama Lounge & Bar, enjoying the stunning scenery of the gorges and cliffs.

Arrive in the Bulgarian town of Svishtov and choose between two Scenic Freechoice excursions: a full-day excursion to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi or a guided city tour of Rousse. Both options offer a deep dive into the local culture and history.

Arrive in Silistra, a Bulgarian town with a rich history. Choose from three Scenic Freechoice options: an active walk to Silistra Fort, a visit to Alfatar Village, or a full-day excursion to Varna. Each option offers a unique perspective on the local culture and history.

Arrive in Bucharest and take an orientation tour of the city. In the afternoon, choose between two Scenic Freechoice excursions: a visit to Ceausescu’s Spring Palace or the Village Open Air Museum. Both options offer a unique insight into Romania's history and culture. Enjoy dinner with your fellow guests before heading to your hotel.

Begin your journey into Transylvania, a region known for its ancient myths and folklore. Visit the Neo-Classical masterpiece, Peles Castle, and the oldest monastery in the region, Sinaia Monastery. Arrive in Brasov, a colourful town with a rich history. After a guided tour, check into your hotel and enjoy a traditional Romanian dinner.

Visit Bran Castle, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula, perched dramatically on a clifftop. Travel on to the village of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler and one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe.

Spend the day in Sighisoara, choosing between two Scenic Freechoice options: exploring the walled city or hiking the hill to the 14th century Church on the Hill. In the afternoon, travel to Sibiu, another medieval town with a rich Saxon history. After a guided tour, enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure.

Leave Sibiu and cross over the Southern Carpathian Mountains to reach the Cozia Monastery, one of the most architecturally and culturally important monasteries in Romania. After exploring the monastery, continue your journey back to Bucharest.

After a final breakfast in Bucharest, it's time to bid farewell to this fascinating part of Eastern Europe. The memories of the spectacular landscapes, medieval villages, and cultural experiences will stay with you long after your journey.