Lower Danube Discovery

Itinerary Overview

Meander along the Danube River on this ultimate 15-day journey that takes in six countries from Romania in the east to Budapest in the west.

Day

Date

Arrival

Departure

13th Apr 2025 Sunday

Bucharest

Experiences

Day Overview

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 it offers 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 Overview

Upon arrival, you will transfer to a luxury hotel for an overnight stay.

About Bucharest

The word on Bucharest is that it's ugly, gritty, grimy -- and parts of it are. But don't make do with first impressions. As our guide aptly put it: "New-old-beautiful-ugly. This is what Bucharest is."

Energetic, hectic and just two decades out of Communist rule, this textured capital city of 2.2 million people is an acquired taste, and it's still in the process of defining itself. Just as Romania has been touted as the New Italy, Bucharest is being hailed as a sophisticated but less pricey alternative to Budapest and Belgrade.

The overarching signature of Bucharest today is the intersection of Communism and capitalism: Buses carrying tourists routinely pull up to the massive Palace of Parliament, built by Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu as a tribute to himself. (More than one-sixth of the city was levelled to accommodate his indulgence.) The endless grey blocks of apartments that rose during Communist times are still in evidence, but so are outlets for Ferrari and Maserati, Hard Rock Cafe, ING, Starbucks and McDonald's. And the national sense of humour that Romanians quietly relied upon to help them survive Ceausescu's dictatorship is out in the open now. Locals, for instance, call the Judicial Ministry "the laundry": where politicians go in dirty and come out clean.

Located between the Carpathian foothills and the Danube River, Bucharest in its golden age -- the late 19th and early 20th centuries -- was known throughout Europe as "Little Paris." Royals ruled at the time, and the city was famous for its elegant architecture, grand thoroughfares and cultural elite. There are still some gorgeous neo-Classical buildings that date back to Bucharest's heyday, but World War II bombings and two earthquakes altered much of the skyline.

A member of the European Union since 2007, modern-day Bucharest is trying hard to regain its fallen stature as a European capital. In a recent travel piece in The Guardian, the British newspaper calls Bucharest "Paris eaten then spat out." Get real. Bucharestians make no apologies for their city -- and they shouldn't. Just like its residents, it's a place with a big personality and a huge heart.

With its elegant, historic city centre, emerging cafe society, architectural high points and proximity to lovely Transylvania, Bucharest has a lot to offer tourists. That is why many companies book their Danube River cruise passengers on Bucharest (and nearby Transylvania) pre- or post-trips, even though passengers, depending on their itineraries, will embark or disembark their river ships in Ruse, Bulgaria, a few hours away. Buses transport them between Bucharest and the Danube. Ruse, for its part, has little to recommend it.

14th Apr 2025 Monday

Brăila

Experiences

Day Overview

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.

Day Overview

This afternoon will be spent on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship to enjoy the amenities. Relax 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.

15th Apr 2025 Tuesday

Danube Delta

Experiences

Day Overview

Start the day with a walking tour in the Romanian fishing village of Saint George, also known as Sfantu Gheorghe. Following this, you will take a cruise on a small boat through the wetlands of the Danube Delta. The vast 580,000-hectare Danube Delta is the best-preserved delta in Europe and is teeming with wildlife, including more than 300 species of birds.

Day Overview

September and October are good times to spot migratory birds, to see pelican chicks and to view the water lilies in bloom. From March to April, foliage is coming to life and you’ll find a plethora of colourful flowers and will often hear male birds singing to their mates.

Day Overview

Spend another wonderful afternoon on board your luxury Space-Ship; mingle with fellow guests in the Panorama Bar & Lounge or take some time out in your spacious suite.

About Danube Delta

The Danube Delta was created over the past 5,000 years and before that it was a gulf of the Black Sea. The three branches of the Danube River, Chilia, Sulina and Sfantu Gheorghe (Saint George), by a network of channels, brooks and ponds. Here you will find floating islets covered by rush and reed, rainforest-like lianas, lakes with muddy depths and surfaces carpeted by water lilies. There are countless pelicans and flocks of cormorants and moor hens. The Danube Delta is listed as a UNESCO Reservation of the Biosphere because of its variety of ecosystems. There are 16 strictly protected areas in which no economic activity is allowed, where tourist activities are permitted as long as the environment is protected. It hosts over 1,200 varieties of plants, 300 species of birds, being the richest ornithological fauna on the continent, as well as 45 freshwater fish species in its numerous lakes and marshes. This is the place where millions of birds from different places of Earth (European, Asian, African, Mediterranean) come to lay their eggs. The largest town, at the entrance of the delta is Tulcea. From Tulcea there are ferry services into the delta. Sulina and Sfantu Gheorghe are smaller towns, lying at the end of the Danube, on the Black Sea-coast. Coral is a village deep in the Delta.

16th Apr 2025 Wednesday

Silistra

Experiences

Day Overview

Arrive in Silistra after lunch, a Bulgarian town that played a significant role in the Russian-Turkish wars.

Activity

Freechoice:
This afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice:

Active walk to Silistra Fort: Transfer to Silistra Fort by coach. Upon arrival take a guided walking tour of the fort and learn about its history. It is the best preserved of the six points of the Turkish fortification system, which played an important role in the Russian-Turkish wars.

Visit Alfatar Village: Take an excursion to the small village of Alfatar, located just outside of Silistra. Visit the ethnographic museum featuring a typical country house, where visitors will see how the residents of this region have lived over the centuries and have kept their traditions alive. Also see the beautifully restored Holy Trinity temple, a treasured symbol of the Bulgarian Orthodox religion, and visit the Alfatar school to meet local children and learn about daily life for young Bulgarians.

Day Overview

Return to your Scenic Space-Ship this afternoon and enjoy time at leisure. You may wish to stretch your legs on the walking track up on the Sun Deck.

About Silistra

Silistra is a port city of northeastern Bulgaria, lying on the southern side of the lower Danube at the country's border with Romania. Sights include the Medzhit Tabiya - a fortress dating back to 1841-1853 with an archaeological exposition, and St. Peter and Paul Church (1862) and the Silistra Tomb, a late antiquity Thracian vaulted sepulchre dating back to the 4th century decorated with a rich mural painting. The Romans built a fortress in 29 AD on the site of an earlier Celtic settlement and kept its name, Durostorum (or Dorostorum). It became an important military centre of Moesia and grew into a city at the time of Marcus Aurelius. In 388, Durostorum became the seat of a Christian bishopric and a centre of Christianity in the region. After the Roman Empire was split, the town became part of the Byzantine Empire and later the Ottoman Empire.

17th Apr 2025 Thursday

Ruse (Rousse)

Experiences

Day Overview

Today spend the day relaxing on board. Perhaps you’d like to spend some time in the state-of-the-art gym doing an invigorating workout or if you’d prefer to wind down, head to the wellness centre for a relaxing massage.

About Ruse (Rousse)

Visiting Rousse in Bulgaria offers a charming blend of history and modernity. Explore its elegant architecture, like the iconic Monument to Liberty, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural scene. Sample local cuisine at quaint cafes, and don't miss strolling along the picturesque Danube River promenade for a memorable experience.

18th Apr 2025 Friday

Vidin

Experiences

Day Overview

This morning you will dock in Vidin, Bulgaria, an historic town with a medieval fortress between the borders of Bulgaria and Romania. This region boasts a fertile landscape where wine is grown.

Activity

Freechoice:
This morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Hiking to Belogradchik Castle Ruins: Take an active hiking tour to the Belogradchik Fortress. Admire the unique rock formations and the ruins of the ancient stronghold constructed when the region was part of the Roman Empire.

Visit to a local winery: Venture to Negovanovtsi village and the Dos Alamos Winery for a tour and tasting. Established in 2013, this boutique vineyard grows Bulgarian Rubin grapes (used for high-quality reds) as well as sauvignon blanc and semillon.

Ancestry of the Kitchen: Banica making class: Traditions and recipes have long been passed down through generations and often kept as a long-held family secret. Today you’ll meet with a local who will speak all about life in this region as well as divulge a family recipe of traditional banica, a delicious cheese-filled pie made with filo pastry.

Triangle of Tolerance walking tour: Take part in a walking tour of Vidin and learn its history and the extreme tolerance among its residents. You will see the Metropolis Orthodox church of St. Nicholas, the 17th-century church of St. Panteleimon, the Orthodox Cathedral of St. Dimitar, the Osman mosque, and the Synagogue.

About Vidin

Vidin is located in the extreme north-western Bulgaria, on the River Danube. The 14th century Fortress of Baba Vida has beautiful towers, thick walls and is well-preserved. It has lovely tranquil riverside walks. The churches of St. Panteleimon and St. Petka have fine murals. An agricultural and trade centre, Vidin has a fertile hinterland renowned for its wines and is the site of an annual fair. Vidin occupies the site of an old Celtic settlement, Dunonia founded in the 3rd century BC and fortified by the Romans as Bononia. Later (1185-1396), the town was known as Bdin, and in 1396 the Vidin kingdom fell to the Turks. They ruled it until 1878 except for a period of Austrian occupation from 1683 to 1690.

19th Apr 2025 Saturday

Iron Gates

Experiences

Day Overview

Early this morning you will cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Iron Gates. 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.

Activity

Freechoice:
This afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice:

Golubac Fortress: Take a guided tour of Golubac Fortress, which was built in the 14th century on a steep embankment of the Danube. Located in the Djerdap National Park, the fortress comprises nine towers connected by ramparts and has been an imposing figure above the river for centuries.

Lepenski Vir Archaeological Site: One of the most significant archaeological sites in the region, it was first inhabited some 12,000 years ago. Archaeologists found 136 building ruins, a central square, and fireplaces in each building, as well as stone idols. Learn how it was discovered, tour the excavation site and gain a fascinating insight into Europe’s early stone age.

Day Overview

This afternoon, you will dock in the charming town of Golubac, which is home to one of Europe’s best preserved medieval fortresses. It was strategically built at the section of the Danube River that narrows to form the ‘Iron Gate’ gorge.

20th Apr 2025 Sunday

Belgrade

Experiences

Day Overview

The capital of Serbia, 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.

Activity

Freechoice:
This morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Guided city tour with extended free time: By coach and foot, you’ll tour the major sites of the city with a guide. You will explore the city’s highlights such as cobbled streets of the Bohemian Quarter and Kalemegdan Fortress, an imposing structure that has been the site of more than 100 battles and offers panoramic views of the rivers below. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore on your own.

Guided city tour including Tito's Memorial: Join a more in-depth tour of Belgrade with a local guide. See and learn about the major sites of the city including the Ottoman heritage of the old town, the imposing fortress and Republic Square following by some free time in the city centre. During this tour you will also visit the memorial dedicated to Tito, the former ruler of Yugoslavia.

Cycling tour along the Danube: Trace the banks of the Danube on two wheels during this guided cycling tour. Learn about the region and its people, including the history of Yugoslavia and the history of Belgrade from WWII to today. You will see the Palace of Serbia (the former seat of the government of Yugoslavia), the historic neighbourhood centre of Zemun, which became part of Belgrade in the early 1900s and still has a distinct character, and Staro Sajmiste, a former concentration camp.

Education with the Roma community: The Bread of Life project helps to reduce the prejudices against Roma people, which prevail among the non-Roma population in schools, local authorities, and institutions. It highlights the need for positive action to improve living conditions in Roma communities. The project is designed to help Roma children to finish primary school and integrate better into society. On this engaging tour, you will visit the tutoring space to see how the project is benefiting the community, and even have the chance to meet some of the children and learn about the challenges they face.

Classic

Enrich
Tonight, we have a special treat in store for you with our Scenic Enrich event:

Classical concert at St. Sava Temple: Visit St. Sava, the largest orthodox temple in the Balkans. Have a chance to explore the frescos-lined walls of the cathedrals crypt where the church choir will perform some of the most beautiful hymns just for you. Because of the acoustics in the crypt, this is a once of a lifetime opportunity.

About Belgrade

Belgrade is the capital city of Serbia and it lies at the meeting of the Danube and Sava rivers. Sights in the city include the Cathedral of St. Michael, or Saborna Crkva, built in 1837 and the old fortress of Kalemegdan on the headland, now a historical monument and its garden, from there you can seen a view of the plain across the Sava and the Danube. There are many museums and galleries, of which the oldest, the National Museum (Narodni Muzej), was founded in 1844. The artists' quarter Skadarlija is also well worth a visit. There is evidence of Stone Age settlements in the area. Notable are the excavations in Carasija near Ripanj where a statuette of a seated woman was found - one of the oldest pieces of sculpture in the world. Also the remains of an 8,000-year old settlement was discovered in Lepenski Vir with unique stone figures which resemble a fish with a human head and measure up to half a metre - these can be seen in the National Museum. The city grew up around an ancient fortress encompassed on three sides by the Sava and the Danube. Ruled by the Franks and the Bulgars, in the 11th century it became a frontier town of Byzantium. In 1402 Stephen Lazarevic made it the capital of Serbia but the Ottoman Turks captured the city in 1440 and it remained in their hands except for three periods of occupation by the Austrians. In 1921 Belgrade became the capital of Yugoslavia.

21st Apr 2025 Monday

Novi Sad

Experiences

Day Overview

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Novi Sad, Serbia, early this morning. The country’s second largest city is a youthful city of music, art and liberal freedoms. It’s an ethnically diverse city, has a thriving arts scene with several large-scale public murals, hosts vibrant festivals, all while nurturing its 500-year history.

Activity

Freechoice:
This morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Guided tour of Novi Sad: Novi Sad is a modern, vibrant city with a fascinating past. Join your local guide as you discover all that makes the city a true highlight of this region, from the Petrovaradin Fortress, completed in the 18th century with 10 gates and 400 cannon sites, to charming Dunavska Street, one of the oldest and most beautiful streets in the city, a promenade lined with colourful buildings, popular for walking, gathering and dining.

Excursion to Sremski Karlovci: Journey by coach to the nearby town of Sremski Karlovci. Upon arrival enjoy a guided tour of this charming Baroque town, which was once a hub of the cultural and political life of the Serbs. Enjoy some free time to explore on your own, followed by a visit to a local winery and honey museum for a delicious tasting.

Hike to Petrovaradin Fortress: The Petrovaradin Fortress is the symbol of the city and is often referred to 'the Gibraltar on the Danube'. Its history dates from the Middle Ages. Learn about its strong history as you hike to the fortress where you will be rewarded with magnificent views over the Danube River and the city below.

Fruska Gora National Park with monastery and winery visit: Serbia’s oldest national park, Fruska Gora National Park was once an island but when the seas dried up it became a solitary mountain. Its landscape is blanketed with oak and beech wood forests, and some 60-plus family vineyards. There are also 16 monasteries scattered throughout the park’s hidden valleys, the oldest dating to the 16th century. Visit this monastery and stop by a winery for a sample of their best drops.

About Novi Sad

Whilst not as well-known as Belgrade, Serbia's second city offers an enormous amount for the visitor. Packed with pleasant pedestrianised streets and charming squares with bars & cafes, the city also offers many museums, galleries and historical landmarks. The city also hosts the annual EXIT Festival, one of the biggest music festivals in Europe.

22nd Apr 2025 Tuesday

Osijek

Experiences

Day Overview

You will arrive this morning in the Croatian town of Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history; it was at the epicentre of the 1990s war of which scars are still evident on its building today.

Activity

Freechoice:
Walking tour of Osijek: Take a guided walking tour of Osijek to see the highlights of the town including the well-preserved Baroque Old Town and fortress. You’ll also have the opportunity to hear some traditional and classical music popular in the region.

Boat cruise at Kopacki Rit: Kopacki Rit is one of the largest natural wetlands in Europe, covering 238 hectares, and you will have the opportunity to explore it by boat. Learn more about this beautiful untouched nature in the easternmost part of Croatia through a presentation by one of the park’s rangers. During a 50-minute boat ride, you will cruise among lush greenery, hundred-year-old willow woods, meadows and spot the variety of flora and fauna including deer, wild boar, white tailed eagle and black stork.

Cycling tour of Osijek: Explore the Kopacki Rit nature park on two wheels during a guided biking tour. This marshland area is a natural habitat for 293 different kinds of birds, 46 species of freshwater fish, several amphibians and reptiles, as well as wild boars and red deer. The ponds and lakes, which are teeming with common reed and whose surface is covered with White Water lilies, are mostly surrounded by white willow trees and untouched nature. If you are lucky, you might even see the most famous inhabitant of Kopacki Rit, the white-tailed eagle.

Day Overview

After your touring this morning, all guests will 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.

About Osijek

The historic city of Osijek (Osijekis) is the capital of the Slavonia region with a history dating back to Neolithic times. Explore the oldest part of the city, Tvrdja, a fascinating mix of Baroque houses, forts and churches. An 8th century Baroque citadel lies in the heart of the town. Its main central Holy Trinity Square is closed on the north by the building of the Military Command, on the west there is the Main Guard building and on the east is the Magistrate building which houses the Museum of Slavonia. Other sights include the promenade along the Drava ("promenade"), and the suspension pedestrian bridge across the Drava river. Nearby is the nature park of Kopacki Rit, one of the largest andmost attractive preserved wetlands in Europe. The Roman emperor Hadrian raised the old settlement of Mursa to a colony in 131. After that, Mursa had a turbulent history, with several decisive battles that took place here (among which the Battle of Mursa Major in 351 and the battle between Aureolus and Ingenuus in 260), deciding the destiny of the whole region. After their migration, the Croats made a settlement near the ruins of Mursa, giving it its present name, Osijek. Life was thriving here in the Middle Ages, but the city was sacked and destroyed by the Ottoman Empire in 1526. The Turks rebuilt it in oriental style. Osijek was restored to western rule in 1687 it was occupied by the Habsburg Empire who built a new fortress known as Tvrda. Between 1712 and 1721.

23rd Apr 2025 Wednesday

Mohacs

Experiences

Day Overview

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.

Activity

Freechoice:
Today’s Scenic Freechoice options:

Pecs city tour: First settled by the Romans and then later the Turks, this richly historic and fascinating city located close by the Croatian border is a melange of cultures. It’s filled with Roman and Turkish architecture and ruins, elegant Baroque buildings, and is famous for its decorative arts and crafts, in particular porcelain. On a guided tour, you will see the building of the city’s first telephone exchange, which opened in 1885, the Turkish Bath of Pasha Memi, which was demolished in the late 19th century but unearthed in the 1970s, the county library and more.

Villany wine village: The region of Villany is known for its big, bold red wines, which account for most of the local wine production thanks to its sub-Mediterranean climate. The village is a charming place to visit, with rows of historic white wine cellars where you can sample some of the local reds. You will also visit an old mill.

Zsolnay Ceramics Museum: Founded in 1853 and still in operation today, Zsolnay Porcelain has a proud history of creating hand-painted decorative, ornamental, and architectural porcelains, and is known for its signature eosin glaze technique. View a splendid historic collection at the museum in Pecs, which is housed in the company’s former factory.

About Mohacs

Mohács is a picturesque town located in southern Hungary, renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals. Mohács offers visitors a blend of historic architecture, scenic landscapes, and traditional Hungarian hospitality on the Danube River's banks.

One of the most famous events in Mohács is the annual Busó Festival, a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage celebration held in late winter. During the festival, locals dress in traditional Busó masks and costumes, parading through the streets to scare away the winter spirits and welcome the arrival of spring. The festival features lively music, dance performances, and street food stalls, making it a must-see event for visitors to Mohács.

Take time to explore Mohács's fascinating past, with its historic landmarks and archaeological sites. Visit the Mohács Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the town, explore its well-preserved walls and towers and discover the ruins of ancient Roman settlements scattered throughout the area.

24th Apr 2025 Thursday

Kalocsa

Experiences

Day Overview

The historic Hungarian town of Kalocsa has some of the richest folk art in the world and was an important agricultural centre in the 19th century.

Activity

Freechoice:
Today’s Scenic Freechoice:

Hungarian Traditions: The region of Kalocsa is teeming with culture and traditions. It is famous for its traditional handicrafts such as needlework and embroidery. Learn about the origins of these beautiful designs as well as other crafts.

Hungarian Horse Show: Kalocsa is located on the Great Hungarian Plain, with an agricultural history dating back more than 2000 years. Witness a traditional horse show, meet the local horsemen who will demonstrate impressive equestrian skills and enjoy a tasting of local delicacies.

Day Overview

This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will sail to Budapest.

About Kalocsa

Kalocsa is central Hungary, on a terrace overlooking the River Danube and surrounded by the Sarkoz swamps. Kalocsa has perhaps the richest folk art in all Hungary; the motifs painted by the town's "writing women" are distinguished by the inventiveness of the design and colour. These motifs are also reproduced in much-sought-after embroidery work, which is exported. The House of Folk Art and Károly Visky Museums display local work and the bishop's palace displays art treasures. It was one of the bishoprics founded by the first king of Hungary, Stephen I, and was a thriving medieval town until it was taken by the Turks, rising again in the 19th century as an agricultural centre.

25th Apr 2025 Friday

Budapest

Experiences

Day Overview

You will arrive early this morning in Budapest, in Hungary, 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 became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. An architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between, the city is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene.

Activity

Freechoice:
This morning’s Scenic Freechoice:

Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts that are separated by the Danube that make up the city. Starting on the Buda side, see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. Afterwards, you will visit the Parliament Building, which sits proudly along the Danube and is the third largest Parliament building the world.

Guided hike to Buda Hill: Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike up to the World Heritage-listed site of Buda Hill. On your walk, see Varket Bazar and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.

Jewish Heritage Tour: Discover Jewish history on a guided tour with an expert local guide, during this tour you will learn about the significant Jewish events from history that have shaped the culture of today. Tour includes Synagogue, cemetery, memorial park and guided tour of the Jewish Museum.

Classic

Enrich
This afternoon we set sail for the Hungarian town of Vac, from here we have a special treat in store for you with a fabulous Scenic Enrich event.

Immerse yourself in Budapest’s Imperial past by attending an exclusive private classical music concert at the majestic Gödöllõ Royal Palace, one of the favourite residences of Queen Elisabeth of Hungary.

About Budapest

Divided by the Danube River, the Hungarian capital of Budapest -- known as the "Pearl of the Danube"-- is a city of two distinct halves. The hilly Buda side is topped by the impressive Royal Palace, home to several museums and charming cobbled streets lined with shops and houses that date to medieval times. On the busier Pest bank, there are grand sights like the parliament building, opera house and statue-lined Heroes' Square, plus fantastic shopping streets, such as Andrassy Avenue, Budapest's grand central boulevard. Several bridges cross the river, but the best one to use is the historic Chain Bridge, which is the oldest. The great thing about Budapest, a mainstay on most Danube River cruise itineraries, is it's compact, so you can pack plenty into a short break. The majority of sights are within walking distance or easily reached on the efficient tram and underground network. Coffee shops are a big thing. At one time, there were more than 400 in Budapest, so take time out to join locals for a caffeine boost and a slice of yummy cream cake. Budapest is also the world's only capital city to boast more than 80 active thermal springs and wells; soaking in the warm, mineral-rich waters is an authentic experience. Szechenyi is the largest, with indoor and outdoor pools, and Gellert is famous for its opulent -- and mostly original -- architecture. Many river cruise operators offer trips to the baths as an excursion option. Budapest's history dates to the third century, when Celtic warriors occupied the area. Study the place a bit, and you'll find yourself wondering: Who didn't invade the city? The Romans, Magyars, Mongols, Ottoman Turks, Austrians, Germans and Soviets have all played starring roles in Budapest's longstanding municipal drama. The city has been destroyed and rebuilt over the centuries -- part of the reason for its eclectic architecture, which includes everything from neo-Classical to Stalinist utilitarian. Its current skyline reflects the building programs and styles of the turn of the 20th century. As Claudio Magris wrote in his travel memoir, "Danube," "Budapest is the loveliest city on the Danube. It has a crafty way of being its own stage-set."

26th Apr 2025 Saturday

Bratislava

Experiences

Day Overview

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. Sit on the Sun Deck with a coffee in hand and enjoy the scenery of riverside villages or take the opportunity to visit the wellness centre for a soothing massage.

Day Overview

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.

Activity

Freechoice:
This afternoon see Bratislava your way, with one of the following Scenic Freechoice activities.

Bratislava City Tour: Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the heart of the city and it is just a short walk to the Old Town. A city of contrasts, Bratislava features a mixture of medieval, Gothic and Baroque architecture. With your local guide, you will see the highlights of this beautiful city such as Bratislava Castle, the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall.

Coffee & Cake with a local family: Immerse yourself in Slovak life and enjoy coffee and cake with friendly locals. Gain understanding of life in Slovakia during modern times.

Communism walking tour: Explore Bratislava with a knowledgeable local guide to learn about the Iron Curtain era, the political boundary that divided Europe after WWII. Discover what the city was like during the communist regime and how this impacted directly on the Slovaks.

About Bratislava

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is an up-and-coming cruise port along the Danube River. It borders both Austria and Hungary, and it's located just miles from the capital cities of Vienna, Austria, and Prague, Czech Republic.

27th Apr 2025 Sunday

Budapest

Experiences

Day Overview

This afternoon you will have free time as 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. Szechenyi Baths are the largest, boasting 15 indoor baths and three vast outdoor pools. 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.

About Budapest

28th Apr 2025 Monday

Budapest

Experiences

Day Overview

After breakfast, transfer to Budapest airport for your onward journey, taking away a lifetime of wonderful memories with you.

Day Overview

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. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Day Overview

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.