Highlights of Eastern Europe (2026) (Bucharest to Budapest, 2026)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through Eastern Europe's hidden gems, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. From the vibrant streets of Bucharest to the enchanting landscapes of the Iron Gates, each day offers a new adventure. Discover the architectural wonders of Belgrade, the rich traditions of Croatia, and the dual charms of Budapest. With carefully curated excursions, luxurious accommodations, and authentic local experiences, this journey promises to be an unforgettable exploration of the Danube's treasures.
Included
All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Captain's Welcome and Farewell Receptions
Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
S.S. Beatrice or the imperial River Duchess
7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the majestic
S.S. Beatrice
or the imperial
River Duchess
2 nights in Bucharest at The Marmorosch Bucharest hotel (or similar) with breakfast
Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
Free Wi-Fi
hotel: 7 night(s); S.S. Beatrice: Royal Suite ,Grand (Owner's) Suite ,Suite ,Deluxe ,Classic
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
5 countries: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia
2 UNESCO World Heritage sites
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
Cultural enrichment, including captivating onboard local entertainment
Excursions included:
- Bucharest Communist Tour with People's Palace
- Nights Out: Serbian History with Private Concert
Additional excursions to choose from:
- Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi with Authentic Bulgarian Lunch
- Ruse Walking Tour with Ivanovo and Basarbovo Monasteries
- Belogradchik Red Rock Valley
- Dos Alamos Wine Estate Visit and Tasting
- Lepenski Vir Archaeological Park and Golubac Castle
- Let’s Go: Kovilovo Viewpoint Hike
- Belgrade City Tour with Visit to the Royal Grounds of Karadjordjevic Dynasty Palace
- Let's Go: "I Bike Belgrade" Tour
- Vučedol Culture Museum and Lunch at a Family Restaurant
- Osijek Walking Tour and Home-Hosted Lunch with Eltz Manor Visit
- Budapest Communist Tour
- Budapest Panoramic Highlights with Synagogue Visit
Map
Attractions
Belogradchik Fortress
Lepenski vir
Baba Vida Fortress
Vučedol Culture Museum and Archaeological Site
Golubac Fortress
Palace of the Parliament
Karađorđe's Park railway station
Dohány Street SynagogueDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Bucharest
- Bucharest - Arrival day
- More
Your journey begins as you touch down at Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport. A warm welcome awaits you, with a representative ready to escort you to your hotel, such as the Hilton (or similar). Settle in and take the rest of the day to relax or explore the vibrant city at your own pace.
Day 2 – Day 2: Discover Bucharest
- Bucharest
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Immerse yourself in the bustling heart of Romania's capital. Spend the day exploring the city's eclectic mix of architectural styles, from Communist-era structures to elegant 19th-century buildings. Enjoy local cuisine at a charming café and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Bucharest.
Day 3 – Day 3: From Bucharest to Giurgiu
- Bucharest
- Giurgiu
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- Palace of the Parliament
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Embark on a panoramic city tour of Bucharest, highlighting its fascinating history and architecture. Visit the monumental People's Palace, a testament to the city's Communist past. In the afternoon, travel by motorcoach to Giurgiu, where your luxurious river cruise ship awaits.
Day 4 – Day 4: Explore Ruse and Beyond
- Veliko Tarnovo
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- Karanvarbovka Monastery "Saint Marina"
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Discover the charm of Ruse, often dubbed 'Little Vienna' for its elegant architecture. Choose between a walking tour of the city, including visits to the Ivanovo and Basarbovo Monasteries, or a journey to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi, where you'll enjoy an authentic Bulgarian lunch.
Day 5 – Day 5: Vidin's Wonders
- Vidin
- Belogradchik
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- Belogradchik Fortress
- Baba Vida Fortress
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In Vidin, delve into medieval history at the impressive Baba Vida Fortress. Opt for an excursion to the mesmerizing Belogradchik rock formations or indulge in a wine tasting at a local estate. Relish the unique blend of nature and history in this captivating region.
Day 6 – Day 6: Through the Iron Gates
- Golubats
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- Lepenski vir
- Golubac Fortress
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Sail through the breathtaking Iron Gates, a series of gorges along the Danube. Choose to explore the ancient Lepenski Vir Archaeological Park or the formidable Golubac Castle. Marvel at the historical landmarks that line the riverbanks, each telling tales of bygone eras.
Day 7 – Day 7: Belgrade's Blend of Old and New
- Belgrade
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- Karađorđe's Park railway station
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In Serbia's vibrant capital, explore the juxtaposition of ancient history and modern life. Enjoy a private concert as part of the 'Nights Out' experience. Opt for a city tour with a visit to the Royal Grounds of the Karadjordjevic Dynasty Palace or a leisurely bike tour through the city's streets.
Day 8 – Day 8: Croatian Culture in Vukovar
- Grad Vukovar
- Osijek
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- Vučedol Culture Museum and Archaeological Site
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Welcome to Croatia, where you'll dock in Vukovar, a city rich in history and tradition. Choose between a visit to the Vučedol Culture Museum with a delightful lunch at a family restaurant or a walking tour of Osijek, complete with a home-hosted lunch and a visit to Eltz Manor.
Day 9 – Day 9: Budapest's Dual Charms
- Budapest
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- Dohány Street Synagogue
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Explore the dynamic city of Budapest, where East meets West. Choose between a walking tour for a local's perspective or a panoramic tour that includes a visit to the iconic Budapest Synagogue. Discover the unique allure of Buda and Pest, each with its own distinct character.
Day 10 – Day 10: Farewell to Budapest
- Budapest - Departure day
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As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, disembark in Budapest. If your package includes a departure transfer, you'll be escorted to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport. Alternatively, extend your stay in this enchanting city with an optional post-cruise extension.
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