Eastern Europe and Balkans River Cruise Itinerary
Day 1 : Bucharest
Welcome to Bucharest. The capital of Romania was once called the Paris of the East; however, WWII changed the face of the city with much of its Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture destroyed. Now a unique mix of Art Nouveau remnants and Brutalist-era architecture, along with wide, tree-lined boulevards and leafy squares, hidden street art and thriving nightlife, splendid Orthodox churches, and a gargantuan Palace of Parliament.
Day 2 : Bucharest – Giurgiu
Today you’ll explore the city of Bucharest, with your selected Scenic Freechoice followed by a panoramic tour of the city by coach. Travel from the south of Bucharest to Primaverii Palace, stopping to see its squares, including Union Square, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square and Charles de Gaulle Square. This afternoon, you will be transferred to Giurgiu, where you will be welcomed on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.
Day 3 : Silistra
Arrive in Silistra early this morning, a Bulgarian town that played a significant role in the Russian-Turkish wars.
Day 4 : Rousse
This morning you’ll arrive in Rousse (or Ruse), which has been described as ‘Little Vienna’. This afternoon, relax on board as you continue to sail along the Danube. Mingle with other guests as you sit back with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar and soak up the scenery.
Day 5 : Iron Gates
Today you will cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Iron Gates, a narrow gorge carved out between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. This stretch of the Danube is the natural border between Serbia and Romania and features four narrow gorges, soaring cliffs and the might rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king. Spend some time relaxing in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Danube. Or perhaps you’d prefer to sweat it out in the state-of-the-art gym or take time out in the wellness centre.
Day 6 : Belgrade
Arrive in the capital of Serbia this morning. Belgrade is known as the ‘Door to Central Europe’ and lies at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This eclectic city is steeped in history, with Neolithic ruins found nearby, a fortress built by the Romans, Brutalist buildings that sit beside Art Nouveau buildings and a bohemian vibe. One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times. This afternoon is free at leisure to explore Belgrade further. Soak up the bohemian culture with a wander along cobblestoned Skardalija Street, a district once frequented by writers and artists and other creative souls, now home to traditional restaurants, local stores and galleries.
Day 7 : Osijek
Today you will visit Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history. Osijek was at the epicentre of the 1990s war, and its scars are still evident on its buildings today. After your touring this morning, visit the home of a typical Croatian family and have lunch with the family members. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience, and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host’s garden. North-eastern Croatia is the ‘bread basket’ of the country, so it is only natural that the villagers take great pride in their gardens, from which ingredients are used to make a feast for both the palate and the eyes.
Day 8 : Mohacs
Straddling the Danube, this small Hungarian town was the site of the 16th century Battle of Mohacs, which led to the destruction of the Hungarian monarchy and the rise of Ottoman and Habsburg rule. From here, you will explore the surrounding regions with one of the following Scenic Freechoice excursions.
Day 9 : Budapest
After breakfast, prepare to head home. It may be the end of your journey, but it’s the beginning of a lifetime of fond memories. Please book your flight to depart out of Budapest after 12:00 PM.
*Itinerary is subject to change.
