Budapest to the Black Sea

Board the MV Serenade I for an inspirational cruise that takes you almost to the mouth of the majestic Danube, visiting fascinating cities and little-explored gems en route.

• UK/Budapest - 1
  

  Your journey through eastern Europe begins with a flight from your local airport to Budapest, where MV Serenade I is moored, ready to set sail this evening.

• Kalocsa - 2
  

  Today’s port of call is the charming Hungarian town of Kalocsa, centre of the Hungarian paprika production industry. You are free to explore; perhaps take time to visit the elegant Archbishop’s Cathedral and Holy Trinity Square.

• Belgrade - 3
  

  You arrive in Belgrade today, the ancient capital of Serbia. An optional city tour will reveal the story of this remarkable city. Highlights include the Orthodox cathedral and the mighty Kalemegdan Fortress which dominates the old town.

• Vidin - 4
  

  Your cruise along the Danube today reaches Bulgaria and atmospheric Vidin. Stroll the ancient streets and make your own discoveries in the city, one of the country’s oldest. Perhaps visit the medieval Bada Vida Fortress.

• Rousse - 5
  

  You arrive in the attractive town of Rousse this morning. Make the most of your time here by joining your Tour Guide on an optional tour to Bucharest, the Romanian capital.

• Silistra - 6
  

  The cruise arrives in pretty Silistra this morning; why not join an optional scenic drive through rural Bulgaria to one of the real gems of the Black Sea, Varna? The afternoon is free.

• Cernavoda - 7
  

  From Cernavoda, enjoy your included transfer to the ancient Black Sea city of Constanta. You’ll really get to know the old town on an optional city tour.

• Svistov - 8
  

  Nestled at the base of a mountain, Svistov enjoys a mild climate and a long and interesting history. You are at leisure to explore independently, or to perhaps join an optional tour to Valiko Tarnovo. This most atmospheric of cities, the former capital of Bulgaria.

• Oriahovo & Vidin - 9
  

  This morning you arrive in Oriahovo, where you can join an optional visit to Sofia, the Bulgarian capital. Rejoin the boat in Vidin before continuing your cruise towards Vukovar.

• Cruising - 10
  

  Enjoy a day cruising the unique Iron Gate region. This 60-mile stretch of river used to be narrow and perilous, with numerous rocks on the river bed. Today it is a much safer journey – the water level has been raised and the hazards removed.

• Vukovor - 11
  

  Historic Vukovar has been faithfully restored to its former glory. Explore at your leisure, or join our optional guided tour.

• Baja - 12
  

  Take advantage of the opportunity to see the traditional side of Hungarian life on an optional tour of the Hungarian Puszta.

• Budapest - 13
  

  The former rival cities of Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube, were only unified in 1873 and still retain their own distinct personalities. Discover the city’s highlights on an optional tour.

• Budapest/UK - 14
  

  Disembark in Budapest this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

---

Accommodation

Built to the highest standards of safety and design, the MV Serenade I has something for everyone. Whether it’s a quiet drink in the panoramic bar watching the sunset, a stroll on deck or a delicious afternoon tea, you’ll feel wonderfully pampered and right at home.

• Flights are scheduled services of British Airways
• Flights depart at 12:00 am and return at 2:15 pm

Includes

Not Included