The Danube from Romania to Budapest 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour through the heart of the Balkans, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge. This captivating journey begins in the vibrant city of Bucharest and takes you through the picturesque landscapes and historic towns of Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, and Hungary. From the ancient stone houses of Veliko Târnovo to the stunning rock formations of Belogradchik, each day offers a unique blend of guided tours, cultural experiences, and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy the comfort of your Avalon Suite Ship® as you cruise along the Danube River, savoring delicious meals and engaging onboard entertainment. With visits to iconic sites like the Iron Gates Gorge, Golubač Fortress, and the bustling streets of Belgrade, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the Balkans' rich heritage and vibrant cultures. Join us for an adventure that will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for this captivating region.
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
Avalon Waterways cruise ships
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
Lepenski vir
Baba Vida Fortress
Museum of Srem
Trajan's Plaque
Vukovar water tower
Golubac Fortress
Sugovica part - sétány
Pécs Zoo
Prince Mihailo MonumentDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Bucharest
- Bucharest - Arrival day
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Begin your Balkan adventure in the vibrant city of Bucharest. Arrive by 2 pm and embark on your Avalon Suite Ship® by 5 pm. Settle into your luxurious accommodations and enjoy a delightful dinner on board as you prepare for an unforgettable journey through the Balkans. Overnight, cruise towards Rousse, setting the stage for the adventures to come.
Day 2 – Day 2: Rousse, Veliko Târnovo & Arbanassi
- Veliko Tarnovo
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- Maryan Winery
- Ivanili Waterfall
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Explore the charming city of Rousse, known as 'Little Vienna,' with options for a bike tour or a guided sightseeing tour that includes the Holy Trinity Church. Alternatively, embark on a full-day excursion to Veliko Târnovo, the former Bulgarian capital, and the picturesque village of Arbanassi. Discover ancient stone houses and Bulgarian Revival architecture. Rejoin your ship in Svistov and cruise overnight to Vidin.
Day 3 – Day 3: Vidin & Belogradchik
- Vidin
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- Belogradchik Fortress
- Baba Vida Fortress
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Discover the natural beauty and historical significance of Vidin and Belogradchik. Choose between a leisurely exploration of Vidin or a guided tour to the stunning Belogradchik Rocks and the formidable Baba Vida Fortress. In the evening, enjoy a captivating Bulgarian folklore show on board as you cruise towards Donji Milanovac.
Day 4 – Day 4: Donji Milanovac & Golubač
Day 4: Donji Milanovac & Golubač
- Lepenski vir
- Trajan's Plaque
- Golubac Fortress
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Sail through the breathtaking Iron Gates Gorge, a natural border between Serbia and Romania. Participate in a guided tour of Lepenski Vir, a significant Mesolithic archaeological site. Continue to Golubač to explore its well-preserved medieval fortress, learning about its strategic importance and historical conflicts. Cruise overnight to Belgrade.
Day 5 – Day 5: Belgrade
- Belgrade
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- St Mark Orthodox Church
- Prince Mihailo Monument
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Discover the vibrant city of Belgrade, where the Danube and Sava Rivers meet. Choose between a guided sightseeing tour featuring the magnificent Saint Sava Church or a leisurely stroll along Knez Mihailova Street. In the evening, enjoy an onboard lecture about the rich history and culture of the Balkan states. Cruise overnight to Novi Sad.
Day 6 – Day 6: Novi Sad & Sremski Karlovci
- Novi Sad
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- Museum of Srem
- Petrovaradin Fortress's Clock
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Explore the cultural capital of Novi Sad with a guided tour of its Austro-Hungarian old town and the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress. Alternatively, visit the Museum of Beekeeping and Živanović Wine Cellar in Sremski Karlovci for a taste of local delicacies. Cruise overnight to Ilok.
Day 7 – Day 7: Ilok & Vukovar
- Grad Vukovar
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- Vukovar water tower
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Delve into Croatian heritage with a walking tour of Ilok, complete with a wine tasting in a local cellar. Sail to Vukovar during lunch and explore this heroic town, known as Croatia's largest river port. Enjoy live entertainment on board as you cruise overnight to Mohács.
Day 8 – Day 8: Mohács & Pécs
- Pécs
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- Sugovica part - sétány
- Pécs Zoo
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Explore the serene town of Mohács with its historical memorial parks and the unique St. Nicholas Watermill. Alternatively, visit Pécs to see its 4th-century Christian underground tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy an organ concert. Cruise overnight to Budapest.
Day 9 – Day 9: Budapest
- Budapest - Departure day
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Conclude your enchanting Balkan cruise with a delightful breakfast in Budapest. Ensure your flights depart after 8 am to allow for a leisurely morning. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during your journey through the heart of the Balkans.
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