Black Sea Explorer with Transylvania - Budapest > Kalocsa (Start Budapest, End Bucharest, 2025, 15 Days)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating 15-day journey through the heart of Eastern Europe, where history, culture, and natural beauty intertwine. This multi-day tour takes you from the vibrant city of Budapest to the medieval villages of Transylvania, with numerous fascinating stops in between. Experience the architectural marvels of Budapest, the rich folk art of Kalocsa, the turbulent history of Osijek, and the eclectic charm of Belgrade. Sail through the spectacular Iron Gates, explore the Bulgarian towns of Svishtov and Silistra, and immerse yourself in the Romanian culture in Bucharest. The tour is not just about sightseeing; it's about experiencing the local culture, cuisine, and traditions. Stay in luxury hotels, dine in local restaurants, and enjoy a variety of activities tailored to your interests. This tour promises an unforgettable adventure that will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper understanding of this diverse and vibrant region.
Map
Attractions
Public Road Exhibition
Peleș Castle
Kretzulescu Palace
Elizabeth Square
Castle Garden Bazaar
George Severeanu Museum
Regional History Museum
Zoo Osijek
Széchenyi Chain Bridge
Bran Castle
Castelul Rhédey / Rhédey Kastély / Rhédey Castle
Belgrade City Museum
Cozia Monastery
Cathedral of St. Peter
Vuk & Dositej MuseumDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Welcome to Budapest
- Budapest - Arrival day
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Welcome to Budapest, the vibrant capital of Hungary. Known for its diverse architecture, thermal baths, and lively nightlife, Budapest is a city that promises an exciting start to your journey. Check into your luxury hotel (or similar) for a two-night stay and spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your leisure.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Budapest
- Budapest
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- Elizabeth Square
- Castle Garden Bazaar
- Széchenyi Chain Bridge
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Join a sightseeing tour of Budapest, exploring the city's iconic landmarks by coach and foot. Start on the Buda side, visiting the Várkert Bazár, then cross the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side to see Széchenyi and Elisabeth squares. After a day of exploration, enjoy a delightful dinner in a local restaurant before returning to your hotel.
Day 3 – Day 3: Boarding the Scenic Space-Ship
- Budapest
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In the afternoon, you'll board your Scenic Space-Ship. At the welcome reception, raise your glass to the wonderful cruise journey that lies ahead. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure, exploring the ship's amenities or simply relaxing in your comfortable suite.
Day 4 – Day 4: Discovering Kalocsa
Day 4: Discovering Kalocsa
- Public Road Exhibition
- Lussonium Romkert
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Sail towards Kalocsa, a historic Hungarian town known for its rich folk art and beautifully decorated porcelain. Arrive at lunchtime and spend the afternoon exploring the town's culture and traditions. Choose between learning about the origins of the local handicrafts or witnessing a traditional horse show. Both options offer a unique insight into the region's rich heritage.
Day 5 – Day 5: Exploring Osijek
- Osijek
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- Zoo Osijek
- Cathedral of St. Peter
- Pristanište parka prirode Kopački rit
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Arrive in the Croatian town of Osijek, a city with a turbulent history and a rich culinary tradition. Choose from a guided walking tour of the town, a boat cruise at Kopacki Rit, or a unique culinary experience where a local shares a traditional family recipe. After your morning exploration, visit the home of a local Croatian family for an authentic lunch, immersing yourself in the culture and cuisine of the region.
Day 6 – Day 6: Unveiling Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- Belgrade City Museum
- Centar za posetioce "Mali Dunav"
- Vuk & Dositej Museum
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Discover the eclectic charm of Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Choose from a guided city tour with extended free time, a cycling tour along the Danube, or a walking tour with a local student. Each option offers a unique perspective of this historic city. In the evening, visit the St. Sava Temple for a special classical concert, a unique experience made possible by the cathedral's exceptional acoustics.
Day 7 – Day 7: Sailing through the Iron Gates
Day 7: Sailing through the Iron Gates
Today, cruise through the breathtaking Iron Gates, a spectacular stretch of the Danube that serves as the natural border between Serbia and Romania. Enjoy the stunning scenery of narrow gorges and soaring cliffs from the comfort of your Scenic Space-Ship. Spend the day at leisure, taking advantage of the ship's amenities or simply relaxing and watching the world go by.
Day 8 – Day 8: Svishtov to Veliko Tarnovo or Rousse
Day 8: Svishtov to Veliko Tarnovo or Rousse
- Monument to the Assen Dynasty
- Fountain in front of the Opera House
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Arrive in the Bulgarian town of Svishtov and choose between an excursion to the historic city of Veliko Tarnovo and the charming village of Arbanassi, or a guided city tour of Rousse, known as 'Little Vienna'. Each option offers a unique exploration of Bulgaria's rich history and culture.
Day 9 – Day 9: Exploring Silistra and Beyond
- Silistra
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- Ecopark Varna
- Regional History Museum
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Arrive in the Bulgarian town of Silistra, a place with a rich history that spans many centuries. Choose from a guided walk to the historic Silistra Fort, a visit to the small village of Alfatar, or a full-day excursion to the Black Sea coast city of Varna. Each option offers a unique insight into Bulgaria's diverse history and culture.
Day 10 – Day 10: Discovering Bucharest
- Giurgiu
- Bucharest
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- Kretzulescu Palace
- George Severeanu Museum
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Arrive in Bucharest, the capital of Romania, and take an orientation tour of the city. In the afternoon, choose between a visit to Ceausescu’s Spring Palace or the Village Open Air Museum. Each option offers a unique perspective of Romania's history and culture. In the evening, enjoy dinner with your fellow guests before retiring to your hotel.
Day 11 – Day 11: Journey into Transylvania
- Bucharest
- Brasov
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- Peleș Castle
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Begin your journey into the heart of Transylvania, a region known for its ancient myths, folklore, and legendary literature. Visit Peles Castle, a Neo-Classical masterpiece built as a summer residence for the royal family. After a guided tour of the castle, continue to Brasov, your final destination for the day.
Day 12 – Day 12: Brasov and Bran Castle
- Sighișoara
- Sibiu
- Brasov
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- Bran Castle
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Explore the colorful town of Brasov with a local guide, taking in the Gothic spires, medieval watchtowers, and sprawling squares. In the afternoon, visit Bran Castle, the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula. After a day of exploration, enjoy a traditional Romanian dinner accompanied by folklore tales and traditional stories.
Day 13 – Day 13: Sighisoara to Sibiu
- Brasov
- Sighișoara
- Sibiu
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- Castelul Rhédey / Rhédey Kastély / Rhédey Castle
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Travel to the village of Sighisoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration for Dracula. Explore the well-preserved medieval town or hike up to the 14th-century Church on the Hill. In the afternoon, continue to Sibiu, another medieval town with a rich Saxon history. Enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure.
Day 14 – Day 14: Sibiu to Bucharest
- Sibiu
- Bucharest
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- Cozia Monastery
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Take a guided tour of Sibiu before crossing the Southern Carpathian Mountains to reach the Cozia Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Romania. After exploring the monastery, continue your journey back to Bucharest, the capital city.
Day 15 – Day 15: Farewell Bucharest
- Bucharest - Departure day
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After a final breakfast in Bucharest, it's time to bid farewell to this fascinating part of Eastern Europe. The spectacular landscapes, medieval villages, and fairy tales come to life will stay with you long after your journey ends. Please note that the itinerary may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water.
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