Lower Danube Discovery with Turkey (Start Istanbul, End Budapest)

Welcome to Istanbul, the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Home to more than 15 million people, Istanbul is a city that will stimulate all your senses with its unique blend of cultures, cuisines, architecture, history, and style. Settle into your comfortable accommodation and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Leave the bustling city of Istanbul behind and head to the city of Canakkale. Located on the edge of the Dardanelle Strait, Canakkale has a rich history and a vibrant food scene. It's the gateway to the World War One battlefield of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Troy. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps joining the locals along the waterfront promenade to get a taste of modern Turkish culture.

Venture to the ancient city of Troy, a place shrouded in mystery and legend. Take a tour through the 4,000-year-old ruins, see a giant replica of the famous Trojan Horse, and learn the true story behind this illustrious city. Afterward, we make our way back to the mighty city of Istanbul.

Before you bid farewell to Istanbul, take a moment to listen to the call to prayer before sunrise. After breakfast, you'll transfer to the airport for your included flight to Bucharest, the capital of Romania. Get ready to explore a new city and culture.

Transfer to Braila this morning, where you will board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. This is where your incredible Danube River discovery will commence. Check-in to your suite and spend the afternoon relaxing and exploring the facilities on board. Enjoy the uninterrupted views as you cruise the Danube.

Start the day with a walking tour in the Romanian fishing village of Saint George. Following this, you will take a cruise on a small boat through the wetlands of the Danube Delta. This vast nature reserve is the best-preserved delta in Europe and is teeming with wildlife. Spend another wonderful afternoon on board your luxury Space-Ship, enjoying the amenities and the stunning views.

This morning visit the town of Rousse, often described as 'Little Vienna'. Join a local guide on a sightseeing tour of this opulent town this morning, resplendent in Belle Epoque architecture and leafy manicured squares. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on board, perhaps visiting the state-of-the-art gym or the wellness centre for a relaxing massage.

Arrive in Belgrade, the capital of Serbia. Known as the 'Door to Central Europe', Belgrade is an eclectic city steeped in history. Explore the city's highlights such as the Bohemian Quarter and Kalemegdan Fortress. In the evening, attend an exclusive private classical music concert at the majestic St. Sava Temple, one of the favorite residences of Queen Elisabeth of Hungary.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Novi Sad, Serbia's second largest city. Known for its youthful vibe, vibrant arts scene, and 500-year history, Novi Sad is a city that offers a unique blend of old and new. Explore the city's highlights such as the Petrovaradin Fortress and charming Dunavska Street.

Arrive in the Croatian town of Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history. Explore the city's highlights including the well-preserved Baroque Old Town and fortress. After your tour, visit the home of a typical Croatian family and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host's garden.

Today, you'll travel to the historic Hungarian town of Mohacs, known for its rich folk art and the 16th century Battle of Mohacs. Explore the town and its surroundings, learning about the local culture and traditions.

Arrive early this morning in Budapest, one of Europe's most diverse and vibrant destinations. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city is a treasure trove of architectural styles. Explore the city's highlights, enjoy the hot springs and thermal baths, and experience the vibrant nightlife.

As we progress down the beautiful Danube, spend the morning on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship as we cruise towards the Slovakian capital, Bratislava. This modern multicultural metropolis has an intriguing history and a charming Old Town. Explore the city's highlights and contrast its charming historic sites with its brutalist socialist architecture.

This afternoon, your luxury Space-Ship docks in Budapest after lunch. Perhaps, pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of Budapest's thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters. Or check out the Jewish Quarter's famous ruin bars, which are housed in old and abandoned buildings that were left in decay after WWII.

After breakfast, transfer to Budapest airport for your onward journey, taking away a lifetime of wonderful memories with you. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above.