Grand Cruise through the Heart of Europe to the Black Sea

On arrival, the dedicated English-speaking crew will welcome you aboard your first-class floating hotel, ensuring you settle into your luxurious and well-equipped cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.

The first morning on a river cruise is always a thrill as you awake to the gentle lapping of the water and the colourful valley sides slipping effortlessly past your cabin window. We call at historic Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers and dominated by the immense Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

This morning we take a guided walk around the old town, exploring its twisting streets and charming squares.

During a relaxed lunch we cruise to Boppard, known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’. Wonderfully situated on a sweeping meander, it is one of the Rhineland’s most attractive villages. Its stone quayside is lined with boats of all descriptions set against a backdrop of archetypal half-timbered buildings and cobbled streets.

There are also some superb Roman walls, reputed to be the finest in Germany. Uncover its fascinating Roman past on our guided walk, seeing the 4th-century fortress, reputedly the finest and best-preserved in the country. You’ll also see the striking St Severin Church, with its lovely stained glass and the picturesque marketplace, encircled by colourful facades.

This evening delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments.

Today you experience one of the real highlights of your cruise – the passage through the Rhine Gorge. Here the river narrows, the current is swifter and the towering valley sides soar 600 feet, while the ruins of castles, which once held sway over passing mariners, crown every tortuous turn. We pass rocky outcrops and cruise around endless twisting bends to the famous Lorelei or ‘murmuring rock’, where according to legend, enchanting maidens lured unsuspecting sailors to watery graves.

Next, we call at Rüdesheim, a true Rhine wine town surrounded by vineyards whose fruits you can sample in the many wine taverns you’ll find in its cobbled streets.

This afternoon’s guided tour takes us on a delightful walk through the heart of the old town, seeing the Klunkhardshof, a magnificent half-timbered building dating back to the 16th century and the Brömserhof, which today is home to a quirky museum with an unusual collection of mechanical musical instruments.

This morning we take the short cruise to the town of Mainz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers, for a city walking tour. An important Roman city for over 450 years with the largest amphitheatre north of the Alps, Mainz is also home to the magnificent Romanesque Saint Martin’s Cathedral and Saint Stephen’s Church, whose interior is filled with beautiful blue light flooding through stained glass windows featuring intricate biblical figures – a masterpiece by the great artist Marc Chagall.

On the tour, wander the crooked streets of the old town and city centre to discover the half-timbered houses and historic Roman Catholic monuments, finishing at Saint Stephen’s where you’ll have the opportunity to admire the vibrant Chagall windows up close. After the tour you have time to see the striking Cathedral and bustling marketplace. Take in the atmosphere of this river port city and marvel at the architectural feat of the 13ft sandstone ‘Heunensäule’ which dates back to 1,000 AD. Mainz’s most famous son is Johannes Gutenberg, father of modern printing, and there’s an excellent museum housing a reconstruction of his workshop and two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles, among the earliest books ever printed.

This afternoon our ship cruises up the Main River. Due to locks and low bridges the main part of the sun deck will be closed between Mainz and Passau. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the Riverview Kitchen and the lower section of the sun deck are still accessible. On board your floating boutique hotel in the afternoon, find a relaxing seat in the lounge to take in the lovely views of lush woodland and fertile vineyards seamlessly idling by. As evening approaches, why not enjoy an apéritif in the bar before choosing a table in the restaurant to enjoy the chef’s masterful creations for dinner?

The views this morning are of dense emerald, green forests as we cruise to Miltenberg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval villages, where we enjoy a guided tour. It became prosperous during the Middle Ages under the protection of its castle and today its colourful half-timbered houses and market square with its octagonal Renaissance fountain are an atmospheric reminder of times past.

Embark on our intriguing walking tour, to see one of the most beautiful marketplaces on the Main, the “Schnatterloch”, encircled by proud half-timbered houses, with their steeply gabled roofs and charmingly decorative facades. You’ll see the former Waaghaus, the old town hall and the oldest inn in Germany, dating back to the 15th-century. If you would like to have more time to explore independently, you can choose a shorter orientation walk followed by free time.

During lunch, we cruise around the first of the many meandering bends that characterise the Main River, before learning more about the history of glassblowing and watching a fascinating demonstration of this historic craft.

This afternoon we’ll discover the secrets of Wertheim on a walking tour. Overlooked by a mighty ruined castle, it’s a joy to stroll through the town’s atmospheric streets, soaking up the ambience of this delightfully picturesque spot. As you wander the quaint and colourful market square, look out for the blink-and-miss-it Zobelhaus, a contender for the narrowest house in Germany.

Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something more active, consider joining a tour to Wertheim Castle. After an easy yet steep climb, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the old town and the river landscapes of the Main and Tauber. The castle has overlooked the city since the 12th century, although it was partially destroyed during the Thirty Years' War. Its ruins are filled with fascinating history waiting to be explored.

This evening you’ll be served another delectable dinner, and overnight we cruise to Würzburg.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning as we glide towards Würzburg, situated at the head of Germany’s Romantic Road, so called because of its spellbinding procession of captivating scenery, medieval towns, lofty castles and grand palaces.

Würzburg is best explored by foot, and we have a walking tour through neat streets dotted with fine pastel-coloured Baroque and Rococo buildings. You’ll explore its crowning jewel with your local guide, the truly magnificent Residenz, the former seat of the prince-bishops and one of Europe’s finest Baroque palaces, constructed to compete with the greatest courts of the day such as Vienna and Versailles. The impressive Marienberg Fortress overlooks the blocks of grand pastel-coloured buildings punctuated by the spires and domes of the city’s many churches.

Back for lunch on board, take to the comfortable lounge to maybe catch up on some reading whilst the magnificent undulating landscape passes by. Indulge in afternoon tea and, perhaps, our chef’s special patisserie, while being sure to leave room for the evening’s dinner.

Another day dawns and this morning is free to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities while admiring the magnificent undulating landscape. The foredeck features exquisite outdoor furnishing and there’s nothing quite as refreshing as the gentle breeze as we progress along the serene waters of the Main. Alternatively, why not find a quiet alfresco seat at the Riverview Kitchen at the stern of the ship and admire one enchanting vista after another?

This afternoon we visit Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s quite simply one of the most outstandingly preserved and beautiful small towns in Europe, easily on a par with Prague. The masterpiece you see today began its artistic journey during the 11th century when Emperor Heinrich II chose Bamberg as the location for a capital city he planned to be as grand as Rome.

Although it never became as large as Italy’s capital, Bamberg nevertheless has a wealth of fine buildings including a stupendous cathedral, a town hall built in the middle of the Regnitz River, a network of canals and former fishermen’s houses called ‘Little Venice’ and hundreds of medieval buildings in the tangled lanes of its Old Town.

Before tonight's dinner, there's the chance to sample some of Bavaria's legendary beers and learn more about its history and production. During dinner, we commence our cruise joining the Main-Danube Canal on the way to our next stop, Nuremberg.

Today we call at Nuremberg, the Bavarian city which will always be associated with the Nazi period – Hitler’s pre-war rallies and the international war crimes trials that brought down the final curtain on that notorious regime. What is less well known is that Nuremberg is regarded as the unofficial capital of Germany’s First Reich, better known as the Holy Roman Empire, which was founded with the coronation of Charlemagne in 800 AD and lasted for over a thousand years.

This morning you have two choices:

Choose to explore Nuremberg’s medieval history with a panoramic coach tour of the city culminating in a visit to the majestic Nuremberg Castle.  This fortress, symbolizing imperial power, stands as a testament to the city’s heritage, once serving as the residence for Holy Roman Emperors. Here you'll encounter the opulence of the Knights' and Imperial Hall, a Romanesque double chapel, and an engaging exhibit that unveils the inner workings of the Holy Roman Empire. Additionally, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from Sinwell Tower or look down into the Deep Well. After time to explore the castle, we'll enjoy a walking tour down to the old town ending with free time to explore Nuremberg at leisure.

Alternatively, you can combine Nuremberg’s rich medieval history with its significance in WWII. Nuremberg was considered the spiritual home of the Nazi Party, hosting massive propaganda events like the annual party rallies at the Zeppelin Field and serving as the birthplace of the Nuremberg Laws. After WWII, it became the site of the Nuremberg Trials, where top Nazi leaders were held accountable for war crimes in the Palace of Justice. Today, we'll stop to visit the rally grounds and pass the courthouse before leaving the coach to see the castle and finish with a walking tour of the old town. As we wander, we'll learn more about the city's long history, and see many of its medieval sites, like the Hauptmarkt Square (where the enchanting Christmas Markets are held) and the Old City Hall.

Later, we return to the ship for lunch.

We continue our cruise so it’s the perfect opportunity to relax and make the most of the ship’s excellent facilities. Indulge in a treatment in the spa or at the hairdressers, or simply find a comfy seat in the lounge with an afternoon cup of tea and enjoy the views.

One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation, so this morning, after a leisurely breakfast, perhaps catch up on some reading or simply watch the world float by as we cruise along the Main–Danube Canal to Kelheim, where we join the Danube River.

Before lunch, we reach our next port of call, Regensburg, formerly an important garrison guarding the most north-westerly point of the Roman Empire whose camp gate, the Porta Praetoria, can still be seen. Regensburg was spared war damage and today its historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s a delight to explore.

This afternoon take in the sights of this fascinating Bavarian city on our guided tour. See the wealthy merchants’ houses, the Old Town Hall. Stroll along the iconic stone bridge; see the Altes Rathaus – the seat of the Diet, or parliament, of the Holy Roman Empire from 1663 to 1806 – and gaze in wonder at the Gothic cathedral.

Regensburg calls itself ‘Germany’s medieval miracle’, and it’s hard to argue as you wander along the glorious winding streets and elegant squares of the old town.

Another day dawns as our journey brings us to Passau, the last town we stop at in Germany, nestling where the Inn and Ilz Rivers join the Danube.

After breakfast take the opportunity to explore the ‘Three Rivers City’, overlooked by the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fortress on our guided tour. The old town below is known for its Baroque architecture including Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, where the world’s largest cathedral organ sounds (currently under renovation).

Alternatively, you may choose to join a guide on an active hike to Veste Oberhaus. Reaching the 13th-century defensive fortress requires a picturesque hike along a steep, wooded path with stray rocks and occasional sets of steps - so a good level of fitness and appropriate footwear are a must. As your reward, once we reach the top, we'll be treated to superb views of the city and into Austria. The Veste Oberhaus, built by the prince-bishops, majestically overlooks Passau with an air of authority. For nearly 600 years, this castle symbolised power and strength, serving as a fortress that protected the prince-bishops from both internal and external threats. The citizens of Passau often rebelled against the ruling bishops, striving for greater independence. However, all of these attempts were in vain. The steadfast castle withstood numerous challenges throughout the centuries.

Back on board, make sure to keep an eye on the superb views slipping silently by as we cross into Austria. It’s a country synonymous with superb scenery, but this beautiful section of the Danube Valley is something of a secret.

On a striking rocky bluff above the town of Melk is the enormous Benedictine Abbey, which we visit this morning. This extraordinary building was originally a castle that was subsequently bequeathed to the Benedictine order during the 11th century and has been a monastery ever since. Reconstructed in full Baroque style during the 18th century, the Abbey has many fine rooms and a stupendous library with 100,000 priceless volumes, including some intricate illuminated manuscripts. After the tour, explore the grounds or take a stroll back to the ship through the picturesque old town, with buildings dating back to the 15th century.

As lunch is served, we cruise downstream through the delightfully picturesque Wachau Valley before approaching our next destination: Vienna, the city of Strauss.

The main event this evening is the ‘Chef’s Dinner’, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant. Afterward, to celebrate Vienna’s wonderful legacy, we have arranged a recital on board by a quartet of talented classical musicians. Listening to this exquisite music while in the city of its creation makes a wonderful finale to the day.

Imagine Vienna and you think of an elegant imperial city that’s one of the gems of Central Europe, and perhaps the world’s most musical city. Its name conjures up an image of culture, ornate architecture, resplendent cafés, aristocratic palaces and imposing cathedrals, with the romantic music of the great composers filling the air. In fact, the reality is little different and there’s an absolute wealth of things to see in this former capital of the Habsburg Empire, which held sway over much of Central and Eastern Europe for centuries until its demise at the end of the First World War.

For such a grand city Vienna is quite compact and this morning we enjoy an enlightening guided tour. This most civilised of cities first rose to prominence in the 17th century, and over the next 200 years a magnificent array of galleries, churches and palaces was built.  

At its heart we have the lovely Saint Stephen’s Cathedral with its dazzling patterned roof of glazed tiles, then the awe-inspiring Hofburg Palace, the former royal court that’s now a collection of museums, home to the Crown Jewels and relics of the Holy Roman Empire as well as the famous Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs.

After the panoramic tour on coach along the Ringstrasse, the famous boulevard, built where the city walls once stood and lined with many of the most important sights, you can choose to continue your tour on foot through the old town or explore independently.

The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy this wonderful city at your leisure.

During another exquisite dinner back on board, we leave Vienna behind and head for our next stop, the Slovakian capital Bratislava. Afterwards, perhaps retire for a digestif in the bar to reflect on all the wonderful sights you’ve seen so far and the people you’ve met on this unforgettable river cruise.

This morning we explore Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, which has shrugged off the greyness of the communist era and rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its painstakingly restored Baroque Old Town.

Wander the winding streets to the main square where you’ll find the former Old Town Hall, now housing a museum dedicated to the history of the city and where you may climb the tower for some lovely views. Equally impressive is the great 9th-century castle that dominates the city, with its expansive views across the Danube. Or head to the neoclassical Primatial Palace with its fabulous Hall of Mirrors and rare collection of 17th-century English tapestries. For something more relaxing, perhaps enjoy a refreshing homemade lemonade – a speciality of the city – in one of the many cafés.

Our cruise reaches another highlight this afternoon as we navigate the dramatic Danube Bend, one of the most spectacular stretches of this mighty river. Winding our way through a narrow twisting valley flanked by high mountains and verdant hillsides, we pass a kaleidoscope of exceptional river views, ancient castle ruins and historic towns.

We reach our journey’s end cruising into Budapest during the night.

You rise refreshed in this breathtakingly beautiful imperial capital that straddles the great Danube River, and we have a whole day to enjoy it. Dominated by its castle, Budapest has been called ‘Little Paris of Middle Europe’ and, with its truly magnificent skyline of soaring spires and grand domes, it’s not hard to see why. It’s renowned for the bewitching blend of monuments reflecting Hungary’s national culture and those of the foreign powers that have dominated most of the city’s history.

Today Budapest is a collage of Roman ruins, Turkish baths from the Ottoman Empire, palatial buildings, Baroque churches and sensational Art Nouveau architecture and design – all wrapped up in a wonderful atmosphere enhanced by the unique sound of Hungary’s music and language.

You’ll really get to know this beguiling city on our guided tour, and this morning you have a couple of choices:

If you choose the panoramic coach tour, you’ll drive past some of Budapest’s famous sites, including the Opera House, Gellert Baths, chain bridge, the iconic Parliament building, and more, and stop for photos and some time to explore at Hero’s Square and Buda castle.

Alternatively, you can choose our active tour, where you’ll take a coach to the castle district. From here, you’ll take lifts up to the castle terraces to begin a guided walking tour around the castle area and Fisherman’s bastion. You’ll then have free time to wander the ancient streets of the Castle District while you enjoy panoramic views of the city before heading back to coach for the transfer to the ship. This tour involves uneven grounds and a lot of walking so we only recommend it for customers who are comfortable with a moderate activity level.

You have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure, and culturally you’re spoilt for choice with the city’s array of fine museums and art galleries.

You could stroll down elegant Andrassy Avenue or visit the spectacular Central Market Hall, where you can find everything from traditional foods to handicrafts.

Afterwards you return to the ship for your final dinner on board and, later, enjoy a coffee in the lounge with your travel companions while sharing memories of your exploration of the heart of Europe on this splendid cruise.

Today you’ll chart your own course in this city. Whether you're an art enthusiast, foodie, museum-lover or just fancy an unhurried day soaking up the ambience, Budapest’s got something to pique your curiosity.   

Perhaps put some horticulture on the menu with a visit to the Botanical Gardens. Nestled within the heart of Budapest's enchanting landscape, the Füvészkert, is a verdant sanctuary that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and serenity seekers alike. Tucked away from the city's buzz, stroll the labyrinth of paths admiring the diverse displays, with plants from every corner of the globe, from Asian blooms to the flora of the Mediterranean, in a spectrum of colours and fragrances.   

After so much sightseeing, perhaps you fancy embracing Budapest's thermal bathing culture with a visit to one of the city’s historic bath houses. Bathing here is not merely a leisurely activity, it’s immersion into a centuries-old ritual of relaxation woven into the city's cultural fabric. From the Neo-Baroque grandeur of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath to the Art Nouveau glitz of the Gellért Baths, with its palatial stained glass and mosaic tiles, these aquatic havens are past-masters at the art of rejuvenation so why not give one a try!  

One of the most thrilling aspects of a cruise is waking up somewhere new, and there’s a real sense of excitement as we explore lands unknown to many until the Iron Curtain lifted. At the crossroads of central Europe, Hungary is an intriguing country - a blend of European elegance and the lingering echoes of the Ottoman Empire.  

Our adventure continues when we arrive in Kalocsa, whose 1,000-year-old lore swirls with tales of warlike bishops, saintly kings, rampaging Ottomans, and Magyar heroes who have all left their mark.  You’ll have a choice as to how you spend the morning. Among Kalocsa’s buildings you’ll discover an impressive Baroque cathedral and the grand Archbishop’s Palace, with its Ceremonial Hall displaying a replica of the Hungarian holy crown.  

You can choose to enjoy a walking tour of the town seeing the sights then enjoy at visit to the Paprika Museum; the region is one of the biggest producers of the seasoning that’s an essential part of Hungarian cuisine – goulash being a famous example. There are many types and strengths of ‘red gold’, but the best variety is said to come from here, due to its rich colour and robust flavour. 

Alternatively, for those seeking a more immersive experience, a short drive takes us to a paprika house on the outskirts of town where the secrets of paprika production are unveiled before our eyes! From here, our journey leads us on a scenic drive into the Puszta, Hungary's Great Plain—a vast prairie whose haunting atmosphere is etched into the very soul of the Magyar people.  

Stretching as far as the eye can see, the Puszta reveals villages frozen in time, where Hungarian grey cattle, spiral-horned sheep, and buffalo graze on pastures that seem untouched by the modern world. The Puszta is famed for its equestrian heritage, and we find ourselves at an equestrian farm, mesmerizing to watch a performance by some of the region's most skilled riders. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride and experience this wilderness from a different and memorable perspective. We return to the ship for an afternoon’s sailing

This morning we arrive in Belgrade. The only European capital built at the confluence of two rivers, this resilient city has weathered the storms of history, including the tumultuous chapters of the Second World War and the Kosovo War, marked by months of NATO airstrikes.  

Dramatically sited overlooking both rivers is Kalemegdan Park, which includes in its grounds the city’s iconic fortress, a stronghold built by the Celts, expanded by the Romans and besieged over a hundred times during its history – all chronicled in its military museum.   

While history whispers from the fortress walls, Belgrade is a city reborn – a vibrant metropolis with a gaze firmly fixed on the future, where Art Nouveau facades peek through the stark concrete towers of the Communist era. We’ll enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights such as the cathedral, Republic Square and Prince Michael Street with its wealth of 19th-century buildings, some bearing the scars of recent conflicts among their intricate Habsburg ornamentation. After lunch, this fascinating capital, still under the radar of many European travellers, is yours to explore.  

Maybe you’d like to wander the Old Town’s lattice of winding streets, pausing for a welcome drink in one of the grand coffee houses or venture into the bubbling bohemian quarter, where creative talent is reshaping the area into a 21st-century cultural hub.  

After lunch, this fascinating capital, still under the radar of many European travellers, is yours to explore.  

Maybe you’d like to wander the Old Town’s lattice of winding streets, pausing for a welcome drink in one of the grand coffee houses or venture into the bubbling bohemian quarter, where creative talent is reshaping the area into a 21st-century cultural hub.  

As the evening draws in, relax with a stroll or a drink on the Sun deck before tonight’s culinary delights. After dinner tonight we’ll celebrate Serbia's heritage with an on-board music and dance performance from a talented local folk group. We sail overnight on our journey towards the fabled Iron Gate Gorge.

For many, today will be a highlight of the cruise as we begin our passage through the magnificent Iron Gates Gorge. This stretch of the Danube stands out as one of its crowning glories, where the river carves a majestic passage between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountain ranges, delineating the border between Serbia and Romania.  

The ‘true’ Iron Gates is a single narrow gorge, but the name blankets an entire 83-mile stretch of valleys where towering limestone cliffs plunge into the depths below. During the 1960s and ’70s, two hydroelectric power stations were built here, and their dams raised the river level by over 100 feet, submerging several historic settlements.   

We pass through the Great Kazan, literally ‘cauldron’, where the river narrows to just 500 feet. As the Captain skilfully steers our vessel through this stretch, you’ll see the sculpture of a Romanian hero – Decebalus – etched into the rugged rock face above.   

This 1990’s masterpiece, at over 130 feet high, is the largest rock relief in Europe – it even dwarfs the US presidents at Mount Rushmore. Decebalus was the last king of Dacia, the kingdom stretching from the Carpathians to the Black Sea. A warrior through and through, he fought the Roman Empire in three campaigns before the emperor Trajan got the better of him. Decebalus fled into the Carpathians, choosing to take his own life rather than endure captivity.  

On a day like this, the Sun deck comes into its own; pull up a sun lounger to watch the scenery drift by or chat over a drink with new friends. You may even find an ice cream being served on the Bow deck, so sink into a comfy seat and savour these extraordinary views.   

Tonight, the crew present another menu with the magnificent Chef's Dinner. 

By now you’ll have come to appreciate the luxuries on board – little touches from complimentary dressing gowns and slippers to plush carpets in the corridors and the elegant marble-topped bar. Crossing the border into Bulgaria tonight, you awake in Nikopol, a town that echoes with Roman history and after breakfast we set out across the Danubian Plain to Pleven.   

We enjoy a morning tour of the city followed by some free time here. Perhaps visit the St George Chapel Mausoleum or one of the town’s many other museums. Or simply wander the pedestrian-only streets of the Old Town, enjoying the tranquillity.

During lunch we slip our moorings for an afternoon’s cruising, to Rousse where we moor overnight, so why not enjoy the river breeze up on the sun deck? As the day glides into evening, reconvene with your fellow travellers for an aperitif in the bar. After dinner, there’s still plenty of entertainment in store with a live performance of Bulgarian folk music featuring traditional costumes and instruments. 

From our mooring in Oltenita, we drive to Bucharest to explore this fascinating city. Affectionately termed ‘Little Paris’, echoes of the city’s hedonistic era reminiscent of the 1900s weave through its tree-lined boulevards and belle-époque villas, amidst the stark concrete legacy of Communist rule.  

Dominating Romania’s capital city though, is the Palace of the Parliament, a colossal concrete extravagance commissioned by the Communist dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. Started in 1984 and still unfinished, it is the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon – so big that only 400 of the 1,100 rooms are used. This concrete colossus, adorned with opulent embellishments from marble staircases to intricate mosaics and chandeliers, sparks awe and debate alike - deemed a marvel by some, a testament to vanity by others.  

We enjoy a full day excursion and on our guided tour we see the Palace of the Parliament, which really has to be seen to be believed, plus the city’s other main sights, such as the former royal palace – now the national art museum – and the Athenaeum with its fine Baroque cupola and impeccable acoustics. There are also some Orthodox churches and squares, including Revolution Square, named after the 1989 uprising that swept away Ceausescu’s regime. 

Explore the city under your own steam too. With lunch not included, the day offers an opportunity to discover a cozy restaurant serving up traditional delights – perhaps a plate of garlic-infused meatballs, freshly stuffed peppers, or a hearty vegetable and dumpling soup.  

We’ll return to the ship in Fetesti with time to relax before dinner. Perhaps dip into a board game or novel from the library, or treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure at the on-board hair and nail salon.

Overnight we cruise towards the city of Tulcea, clinging to seven hills overlooking the river and regarded as the gateway to the vast Danube Delta on the edge of the Black Sea. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is the best preserved and second largest river delta in Europe, spanning 2,200 square miles of rivers, marshes, tree-fringed lakes and reed islands, where nearly 3,500 animal and fish species, and 1,700 types of plant, make their home. Within this ecological haven, a diverse community thrives, with nearly 3,500 animal and fish species and a staggering 1,700 varieties of plants coexisting.  

A bird-watcher’s paradise, the maze of canals bordered by willows and oaks offers the perfect breeding ground for countless species. Millions of Egyptian white pelicans arrive here every spring to raise their young, while equal numbers of Arctic geese come to escape the Northern European winters. Keep your gaze skyward for the flight of cormorants and white-tailed eagles.   

After lunch, we disembark to take an excursion on smaller boats into the heart of this tranquil place. Our guide helps to point out some of the flourishing flora and fauna – you could spot a  kingfisher or a catfish darting beneath the water’s surface.   

As dusk begins to fall on this magical landscape, we slip our moorings again. Enjoy another delicious dinner, maybe tonight opting for the intimate dining experience in the Riverview Kitchen at the stern – a fitting conclusion to the day. 

As we embark on our homeward journey, prepare for a breezy adventure through a region once adorned with windmills. You’ll need to hold onto your hat up on deck as you watch the rocky shoreline drift by, dotted with the occasional ruined fortress.

We’ll depart from our mooring in Fetesti for the ancient city of Constanța, described by the Roman poet Ovid as ‘the end of the world’ and with a history dating back over 2,500 years.

Formerly known as Tomis, legend has it that Jason landed here with the Argonauts after finding the Golden Fleece. Positioned at the crossroads of several trade routes, it became a thriving commercial centre during Roman times and still is today.  

Numerous remains from Greek and Roman times are on display in the city’s archaeological and mosaics museums, the latter housing the largest – an impressive 9,150 square feet – and best-preserved Roman mosaic in the world. Constanța’s landmark is the Art Nouveau casino, with its views of the Black Sea.  

Now unused, it was built by the Romanian King Carol I, who hoped its construction would transform the city into a bathing resort for the elite during the inter-war years, something that never quite transpired. More recently, it became one end of the shortest navigable route between the North and Black Seas when the Main-Danube Canal opened in 1992. With free time on your hands, enjoy an amble through Constanța's streets, take in one of the museums or just drink in the sea breeze on a laid-back stroll by the port. 

Crossing into Bulgaria, we arrive in Rousse, so-called ‘Little Vienna’- and it really is a scaled-down version of the Austrian capital, with its proud cluster of 19th-century buildings and genteel ambience. A scenic drive brings us to possibly Bulgaria’s most beautiful city – Veliko Tarnovo, the ‘City of the Tsars’ and former capital, located in a rugged landscape entangled by the meanderings of the Yantra River.   

Its Old Town is clustered on three hills with houses stacked on steeply sided valleys, while the remains of the once-impregnable fortress complex stand on Tsarevets Hill. Within the walls of this redoubt are the ruins of the Tsar’s Palace and, at the summit, the Patriarch’s Palace, which includes the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of God. Much of Veliko Tarnovo was destroyed by the Ottomans, but in the 19th century it became an important trading centre again.   

Tucked away in its cobbled streets are tiny workshops, where you can hear the clanging of copper pots being beaten or watch wooden utensils brought to life by skilful artisans. As you wander, keep an eye out for interesting traditional snacks to try, banitsa comes recommended – a doughy pastry filled with spinach or creamy local cheese.  

Later we head to the village of Arbanasi, set high on a plateau. During Ottoman times, it became a commercial centre for traders and their caravans, crammed with wares bound for places as distant as Italy, Russia and even India. Perhaps visit one of the richly ornamented mansion houses of the period, with their fortress-like stone walls, or the unassuming Church of the Nativity – once inside you’ll be dazzled by the intensely coloured frescoes.   

We end the day with a visit to the Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of churches, chapels and monasteries hewn into the solid rock during the 12th century and with frescoes dating back to the 14th century, so exquisite and historically significant they’re well deserving of their place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.  Before tonight’s dinner is served, we’ll slip our moorings and sail overnight to Vidin. 

This morning why not take a cup of coffee up on deck and soak up the spectacular open spaces of this landscape; watch the early mists rising above the woods of fragrant pine and silver fir clinging to the banks.  

After lunch we moor in Vidin, home to the Baba Vidin, the only entirely preserved medieval fortress in the country. From here, we drive into this rugged wilderness and suddenly the horizon is dotted with huge sandstone cliffs, in sunset hues of orange-reds and yellows, eroded into huge, bizarre shapes.   

These are the Belogradchik Rocks – unique and dramatic, they cover an area of 35 square miles, some reaching as high as 600 feet. Many of these natural sculptures are named after people or objects they are thought to resemble, while others are associated with colourful legends.   

After tonight’s gourmet experience on board, head to the lounge with your travelling companions for a well-earnt digestif, while the resident pianist sets a relaxed tone for the rest of the evening.   

This morning’s cruising eases us once again into the dramatic panorama of the Iron Gates Gorge, a natural wonder tucked away in Serbia’s Djerdap National Park. Among the park’s forests of ancient oak, hazel and beech lies a rich preserve of game, including deer and wild boar. Mountain goats roam the rocky cliffs of Djerdap Kazan, while elusive bears, wolves, foxes and wildcats populate the dense woodland. Keep an eye out for eagles and falcons, too. Why not enjoy this stretch of the river from a sun lounger on deck or through the panoramic windows in the ship’s lounge?  

This afternoon we’ll moor in Donji Milanovac ready for the short drive to Lepenski Vir, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, dating back to 9,500 BC. It consists of a series of Mesolithic villages located on a high terrace overlooking the Danube.  

The wooden houses were laid out in a fan shape and used one of the first types of concrete as their foundations, while their floors were made of sandstone, often covered with limestone plaster and decorated with red and white pigments. Our guided tour spills the secrets of these ancient dwellers and their ingenious lifestyle.

This evening expectation mounts for the Chef’s Dinner, with an imaginative menu reflecting the countries and regions we have visited. Retire to the bar with your fellow travellers and let the stories flow, as you toast your river adventure! During tonight’s dinner we’ll depart for Novi Sad.

The numerous fortresses scattered along the Danube will remind us of the numerous conflicts and power struggles the area has witnessed and early this morning we pass one of the most impressive – the medieval Smederevo Fortress so if you are an early riser have your camera at the ready! 

After a lazy morning, we moor in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, the Fruska Gora mountains providing a scenic backdrop, with slopes terraced with vineyards. The climate and the proximity to the Danube make this region ideal for wine production, Riesling taking the lead, but Bermet, a dessert wine with a vermouth twist, also steals the show.  

Enjoy a guided tour of this city which flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming known as the ‘Athens of Serbia’. See its old Town Hall on the impressive main square, flanked by 19th-century architecture, its castle and synagogue, whilst towering over it all is the mighty Petrovaradin Fortress with its complex maze of underground tunnels. The minute and hour hands of its iconic clock face are reversed, supposedly so that fishermen could still tell the time at a distance. You can learn more about the fortress and its history at its museum.

We will moor here this evening, and after dinner, you’ll be treated to a dash of Serbian musical tradition as a professional pianist and violinist perform popular melodies under the stars. 

Today we cross into Croatia and stop in Vukovar, the country’s largest river port. Perfectly sited at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers, Vukovar once thrived with a vibrant manufacturing industry and a Baroque centre until the tragic events of the civil war unfolded, and the city was almost completely destroyed. Renovation to restore the city to its former glory continues as we’ll witness on our guided tour, seeing the main sights and learning about the city’s tumultuous past.  

We then drive to the historic city of Osijek, which hugs the banks of the River Drava. We explore the Old Town – behind its sturdy stone walls lies an intriguing market square, lined by handsome public buildings with pastel-coloured facades. In the Upper City you’ll see the neo-Gothic cathedral, its red-brick spire gracefully soars above the rooftops. Osijek has undergone extensive restoration, but echoes of past conflicts linger, with some buildings still bearing the scars of the fighting.  

We’ll reembark our ship in Aljimas and this afternoon we’ll sail to Budapest, continuing overnight. 

As the day draws to a close, take your seat in the restaurant as another inspired menu is served by the first-class crew.  

We have nearly reached the end of our journey so head up on deck to get the best views of pastoral landscapes slipping by as we return to the Hungarian capital. It’s not long before Budapest’s brooding skyline comes into view once more. Though we’ve been here before, this imperial capital, straddling one of the world’s most famed waterways - a collage of palatial buildings, grand domes and Baroque churches with soaring spires, is still a breathtaking sight. As we make our final stately approach, if you’ve not captured the view for posterity, this is your chance!

The rest of today is free for you to enjoy at leisure so if you didn’t have chance to enjoy a thermal bath, then perhaps now’s the time! Retreat to the peace of Margaret Island to meander the shady paths or take a scenic ride on the funicular up to Buda Castle to stroll the historic streets and enjoy the views over the rooftops. For something a little different, visit the vibrant Jewish Quarter, an eclectic mix of historic and contemporary charm, known for its charismatic ‘ruin’ bars and street art; spend the afternoon in the Museum of Fine Arts amongst the masterpieces; or head to Váci Street for some last-minute shopping, where you'll find everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion.  

Later return to the ship where you’ll be served tonight’s final dinner. The conversation with your fellow travellers flows over a digestif in the bar as you reflect on all that you have experienced during this epic cruise and sit back to enjoy an on-board Hungarian folklore show.