You are here: Home > River Cruises > Europe River Cruises > 27 Day Croatia & The Balkan Peninsula - Dubrovnik to Amsterdam
BEST PRICE GUARANTEE
27 Day Croatia & The Balkan Peninsula - Dubrovnik to Amsterdam
APT River Cruise starting in Dubrovnik and finishing in Amsterdam
Countries Visited: Holland  Germany  Austria  Czech Republic  Slovakia  Hungary  Slovenia  Croatia 
APT Platinum SeriesTour Type: River Cruise
Tour Duration: 27 Days (26 Nights)
From: Dubrovnik to Amsterdam
Tour Code: EUMCRC27
Operator: APT
from AU $12,915 pp
Click Map To Enlarge

River Cruise Description

Find yourself in a world of historical landmarks and outstanding natural beauty on this 27 Day luxury tour from Dubrovnik, via a host of destinations including Montenegro and Plitvice Lakes National Park, to Budapest.

Included Signature Experiences

  • Explore Plitvice Lakes National Park
  • Cruise on glacially-fed Lake Bled
  • Visit the Hungarian State Opera House in Budapest for a private tour and a private opera recital
  • Visit Albertina palace in Vienna for a Cocktail Reception and a private concert of classical music
  • Sample wines at one of Germany’s oldest wine cellars
  • Enjoy a medieval themed evening and banquet on board
  • Visit Wertheim Castle to enjoy a glass of Sekt and lovely views

Freedom of Choice Touring

  • Dubrovnik – take an trip to Lokrum Island or perhaps take a cycling tour of Konavle, followed by a wine tasting
  • Hvar Island – take a guided bike tour or visit Jelsa for an olive oil and wine
  • Vienna, Dürnstein, Linz, Regensburg , Nuremberg, Würzburg, Wertheim, Rüdesheim and Amsterdam – choose from a wide range of included activities

APT Guaranteed Inclusions

  • Transfers, port charges & tipping included – saving you up to $1,910 per couple
  • Enjoy excursions and entertainment o the value of $2,670 per couple
  • Enjoy the services of an APT Tour Director for all land touring

Outstanding Accommodation

  • Stay three nights in central Dubrovnik at the Rixos Libertas Hotel
  • Stay two nights at Hotel Bristol, Mostar
  • Enjoy two nights at L e Méridien Lav, Split
  • Stay at Hotel Jezero in beautiful Plitvice
  • Stay two nights at the Grand Hotel Union Executive in Ljubljana
  • Stay two nights in the heart of Zagreb at The Regent Esplanade
  • Enjoy 14 nights on a luxurious Aria or Concerto river ship

Finest Dining

  • Enjoy 26 Breakfasts (B), 13 Lunches (L) and 20 Dinners (D)
  • Choose where you'd like to dine in Split with our Freedom of Choice Inclusions
  • All meals included on board, starting with a champagne breakfast each morning
  • Soft drink, beer & regional wine included during lunch & dinner on board
  • Captain’s Gala Welcome Dinner
  • Continental Divide Cocktail Celebration

Back to top

Day
1
Arrive Dubrovnik
On arrival be met at the airport in Dubrovnik and transferred to your hotel. With the rest of the day at leisure, perhaps step out and familiarise yourself with the area or relax by the Adriatic Sea. Tonight, gather for a Welcome Reception at which you’ll enjoy the opportunity to get to know your fellow travellers. Three Night Stay: Dubrovnik, Rixos Libertas Hotel 
Day
2
Dubrovnik Sightseeing, Freedom of Choice Touring
This morning, a tour of Dubrovnik includes the old town of Stari Grad, the Pharmacy, the War Memorial Museum and Rectors Palace. This afternoon, take an excursion to Lokrum Island, or take a Croation Folklore tour of Cilipi. Tonight, enjoy a delicious Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. (B/D)
Day
3
Kotor, Budva
Enjoy a trip today into Montenegro, a small country that boasts a combination of stunning coastline and mountainous landscapes. Tour the Venetian-influenced port of Kotor, which is surrounded by an impressive city wall. Then continue to the popular 3,500 year-old settlement of Budva, famous for its sandy beaches and Mediterranean architecture. Afterwards, return to Dubrovnik and enjoy the evening at leisure. (B)
Day
4
Dubrovnik, Mostar
After breakfast, travel across the Croatian border into Bosnia & Herzegovina and on to the city of Mostar, situated on the Neretva River. On arrival, check in to your hotel then learn about Mostar's fascinating history during a guided sightseeing tour. Afterwards, enjoy dinner. Two Night Stay: Mostar, Hotel Bristol (B/D)
Day
5
Sarajevo
Today journey to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia & Herzegovina. Historically famous for its traditional religious diversity, Sarajevo was nearly destroyed during the Bosnian War of the 1990s but has since recovered to become a genuinely welcoming and enthralling city to explore. On arrival here, you'll embark on a guided sightseeing tour taking you to the sights along the Miljacka River, which runs through the heart of town (B)
Day
6
Mostar, Split, Freedom of Choice Touring
Travel back into Croatia and on to Split today. On a tour, see ancient architecture, the harbour and Diocletian’s Palace, one of the most imposing Roman ruins in existence. You’ll also visit the Old Roman Square, Peristil, Cardo Decumanus streets, the Cathedral of St Domnius, the Baptistry and the statue of Grgur Ninski. Tonight, choose to dine at your hotel or in a local restaurant, the Adriatic Graso. Located on the Sustipan Cliff overlooking the sea, this restaurant offers delicious slow-cooked dishes, full of Dalmationa flavour and spice. Two Night Stay: Split, Le Méridien Lav. (B/D)
Day
7
Split, Hvar, Freedom of Choice Touring
This morning you'll sail from Split to picturesque Hvar Island, located off the Dalmatian coast in the Adriatic Sea. Here, explore parts of the island on a guided bicycle tour. Alternatively, indulge in an olive and wine tasting experience at the island town of Jelsa. On returning to Split, the rest of today is yours to enjoy at leisure. (B)
Day
8
Split, Plitvice Lakes National Park
Today discover the magic of water and woods. Located in a valley among forested mountains, Plitvice Lakes National Park contains 16 blue-green lakes, connected by a series of foaming cascades and thundering waterfalls, surrounded by lush green forests and meadows. A tour of this World Heritage-listed area includes a journey by both electric boat and rail. Two Night Stay: Plitvice, Hotel Jezero  (B/D)
Day
9
Plitvice, Ljubljana
Today discover the magic of water and woods. Located in a valley among forested mountains, Plitvice Lakes National Park contains 16 blue-green lakes, connected by a series of foaming cascades and thundering waterfalls, surrounded by lush green forests and meadows. Depart Plitvice Lakes National Park and head for the Slovenian capital of Ljubljana. On arrival, check in to your hotel, then enjoy time at leisure before dinner tonight. Two Night Stay: Ljubljana, Grand Hotel Union Executive (B/D)
Day
10
Ljubljana
This morning after breakfast, take a tour of the Slovenian capital. See the Old Town, Opera, University and the National Theatre. Then visit Prestern Statue, the cathedral and Plecnik Market. Later, enjoy time at leisure to relax or further explore. (B)
Day
11
Lake Bled, Zagreb
Enjoy a visit this morning to Lake Bled, a glacial lake in the Julian Alps. Absorb the pretty surrounds of mountain and forest and see Bled Castle on the lake's north shore. Then cruise to tiny Bled Island, the only natural island in Slovenia. Explore the island and see the 15th-century church then return to shore and travel to Zagreb.  Two Night Stay: Zagreb, The Regent Esplanade  (B/D)
Day
12
Zagreb
Today a tour of Zagreb includes a visit to the Mirogoy Cemetery. Walk through the Stone Gate and visit its little Chapel of our Lady of the Stone Gate. (B)
Day
13
Zagreb, Budapest, Embark Ship
Head to Budapest, where you board your river ship. 14 Night Stay: One of APT’s luxurious Aria or Concerto river ships  (B/D)
Day
14
Budapest
On a tour of Budapest, take in such sights as Matthias Church, the Fisherman’s Bastion and Buda Castle. Then visit the Hungarian State Opera House for a tour, a glass of champagne and a private opera recital. Tonight, enjoy the Captain’s Gala Welcome Dinner. Afterwards, take in the sparkling lights along the river as your ship departs Budapest and cruises through the city. (B/L/D)
Day
15
Vienna
Disembark in the lovely Austrian capital of Vienna today. Enjoy a tour of this historic city followed by coffee and cake at Café Hofburg, set in the inner courtyard of the Imperial Palace. After dinner on board, visit Albertina, a Viennese palace built in 1744 in the Neoclassical architectural style. After a Cocktail Reception, discover why Vienna is famous for its classical music during a private concert. (B/L/D)
Day
16
Vienna, Freedom of Choice Touring
On your second day in Vienna, perhaps visit Schönbrunn Palace for a tour that includes the Carriage Museum within the palace grounds. You may instead choose to explore the Fine Arts Museum then head to the Imperial Treasury, which houses a collection of priceless treasures including the Hofburg Crown Jewels. Alternatively visit Vienna’s famous Spanish Riding School and enjoy a guided tour, then explore the Imperial Crypt, where more than 140 royals from the Habsburg dynasty are buried. Or perhaps take an excursion to Bratislava, the capital of nearby Slovakia, and see some of the key landmarks of the city’s time under Communist rule. (B/L/D)
Day
17
Dürnstein, Freedom of Choice Touring, Melk
This morning stop in Dürnstein, a small Austrian town set right on the banks of the Danube. Here, above town, lie the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was imprisoned in 1192. Disembark your ship and perhaps set off on a guided bicycle ride along the pretty banks of the Danube from Dürnstein to Melk. Alternatively, embark on a walking tour through medieval cobblestone streets that reveal 16th-century townhouses and wine taverns. Then enjoy a wine tasting before re-boarding your ship and cruising to Melk. On arrival, both groups will then tour Melk Abbey, located high above the town of Melk overlooking the Danube. (B/L/D)
Day
18
Linz, Freedom of Choice Touring, Passau
This morning your ship will arrive in Linz. Here, disembark and perhaps travel by coach to the city of Salzburg for a tour of the city’s ‘Sound of Music’ sights, including the Wedding Church, Mirabell Gardens and Great Salzburg Festival Hall. Or you may like to take a day tour to the World Heritage-listed city of Ceský Krumlov in the Czech Republic. Alternatively, take a guided tour of Linz, before re-boarding your ship for a lovely cruise into Germany and on to Passau. During your cruise, perhaps take in an insightful apple strudel cooking demonstration. (B/L/D)
Day
19
Regensburg, Freedom of Choice Touring
Arrive in Regensburg today, located at the confluence of the Regen and Danube rivers. Here perhaps take a tour of the city’s highlights – including the Old Town Hall, the World Heritage-listed city centre and the Porta Pretoria. Or take a bicycle tour to the 18th-century hillside temple of Walhalla, which honours distinguished Germans. (B/L/D)
Day
20
Nuremberg, Freedom of Choice Touring
Today your ship enters the Main-Danube Canal and arrives at the highest point of the cruise, 435 metres above sea level. Cross Europe’s Continental Divide then arrive in Nuremberg, which played a pivotal role for the Nazi Party and was thus systematically bombed during World War II. Here, perhaps visit a range of sites from the war. Or take a medieval tour and see the 900 year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and more. Tonight, enjoy a Continental Divide Cocktail Celebration before dinner. (B/L/D)
Day
21
Bamberg
Today disembark and travel to World Heritage-listed Bamberg, one of the few German cities that wasn’t destroyed by bombs during World War II. Here, tour the city’s streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. Then, visit a traditional Bamberg Beer Haus and enjoy a local brew compliments of APT, before you continue your cruise, now on the waters of the Main River. (B/L/D)
Day
22
Kitzingen, Freedom of Choice Touring, Würzburg
On arrival in Kitzingen, enjoy a special wine tasting event, hosted by a ‘Wine Queen’ and members of the Aulic Council at Germany’s oldest wine cellar, an historic setting in which to sample Franconian wines. Later, cruise to Würzburg where you may like to tour the Residential Palace o r perhaps travel to Rothenburg on the Romantic Road. This evening venture back in time as a guest at a special Medieval Banquet on board, followed by a medieval music performance in the Showroom. (B/L/D)
Day
23
Wertheim, Freedom of Choice Touring, Freudenberg - Miltenberg
Arrive in Wertheim and enjoy a glass-blowing demonstration by local craftsmen. Then, explore the sights by bicycle, on foot or by water, in a paddling tour of the Tauber River. Afterwards, visit medieval Wertheim Castle for a private tour and a glass of Sekt. (B/L/D)
Day
24
Rüdesheim, Freedom of Choice Touring
Enjoy a morning of cruising before arriving in Rüdesheim, a great example of a Rhine Valley wine town. Here, disembark the ship and board the Winzerexpress mini-train, which will take you to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum for a tour. Afterwards, re-board the ship and prepare yourself for the cruise along perhaps the most beautiful stretch of the river, through the Rhine Gorge. Head up to the Sun Deck to take in views of the steep slopes covered in vineyards and dotted with ancient castles and castle ruins. Cruise past the pretty villages of Boppard and St Goarshausen, among others, as well as legendary Lorelei Rock. The ship arrives in Andernach late tonight, where it remains moored overnight. (B/L/D)
Day
25
Cologne
This morning, continue cruising towards Cologne, Germany’s fourth largest city. Here, you’ll join a local guide for a tour that includes the city’s imposing Gothic cathedral, once the tallest building in the world. Afterwards, rejoin your ship and continue along the Rhine River, bound for the Netherlands. (B/L/D)
Day
26
Amsterdam, Freedom of Choice Touring
After morning cruising you’ll arrive in Amsterdam and choose from two different activities. You might like to admire the city on a canal boat tour. Or perhaps visit the famous Van Gogh Museum. Following your Freedom of Choice Touring relax or explore further with some free time. Tonight join your fellow travellers for a special Farewell Dinner on board. Afterwards, perhaps head in to town to absorb the nightlife. (B/L/D)
Day
27
Amsterdam, Disembark Ship
After breakfast today, disembark the ship and you'll be transferred to the airport. (B)
APT Brochure Itinerary is based on 2013 departures. Click on the icon if you would like to view an electronic version of the brochure online. 2012 itinerary may differ from above.

River Cruise Prices

Cruise prices are per person. Please request a quote for tour availability.

EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL OFFER*

2012/13 APT River Cruise Sale! Save up to $2,560 per couple PLUS add APT's own Superdeal Savings! Exclusive to Global Journeys. Deposit this month to apply! Subject to availability at the time of booking.

20122013

General Information

The information below relates to this itinerary only.

Tour Operator: APT

APT TouringAPT holidays are designed for the premium end of the market and offer quality, first-class experiences. Each holiday presents a mix of cultural activities, luxurious accommodation, world-class dining and more. Many of APT's holidays, include their innovative Freedom Concept™ which allows travellers to choose from a range of touring and dining options. Further, all holidays are operated by a dedicated team of professionals, who ensure each holiday is as relaxed and enjoyable as possible.





Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find the deck plans, cabin types and more ship information?

We have a dedicated section on our website providing more detailed information on APT including FAQ's on what you need to know before, during and after your travel; as well as information on their 'Touring Styles', and a comprehensive search facility to enable you to easily find more of their cruises. Read more> (Note: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).

Why should we choose to cruise with APT?

As market leaders, our resources, experience, passion, expertise and proven track record ensure that we're the most reliable cruise operator on Europe's waterways. With a 98% satisfaction rating, and having launched all of our ships on schedule, there's no company more reliable or trustworthy than APT. We promise we'll continue to set the amazing standards for which we are known, making your choice easy. Put simply, APT are Australia and New Zealand's true European river cruising experts.

When will I receive my documents?

Travel documents, including your travel kit (with luggage labels, ticket wallet, personalised itinerary, touring information and travel bag), are sent approximately two to three weeks prior to departure from your home country, provided full payment has been received.

What will our river cruise ship be like?

APT River CruisesEach of our state-of-the-art ships was designed with our valued travellers in mind. Our operation allows us total control in delivering the standards for which we are famous. And with eight ships cruising in 2012 we are able to offer more cruising routes, ships and departures than most other companies. Custom-designed and built in Holland by the world's foremost ship building experts, APT's European river ships signify the evolution of modern river cruising. From the intricate elegance of the interior appointments and the opulence of the suites to the wealth of recreational choice provided in the vessel's public areas, these river ships are truly the finest on Europe's waters. You can find more information on individual ships here. (Note: This link will take you away from this tour itinerary page).

What is an APT Platinum Sailing?

APT River CruisesOn an APT Platinum Sailing, you'll enjoy special features and inclusions that will enhance what is already an amazing holiday experience. You'll feel as though several elements of the cruise have been designed specifically to meet your own individual interests and expectations, and you'll travel with like-minded APT guests. Throughout our itinerary pages, our special APT Platinum Sailings departures are indicated by this logo. Read more> (Note: This link will NOT take you away from this tour itinerary page).

Are meals included onboard?

All meals are prepared by European chefs and consist of European-style food that has been adjusted for our passengers. On board, enjoy a full buffet breakfast in the restaurant. Lunch offers salads, soups, a choice of mains and dessert. Dinner is a multi-course meal with a selection of mains. Coffee and tea are available free of charge throughout the day and during meals. Water on board the ships is drinkable. Wine, soft drinks or beer are included with dinner on board. All meals on board are included. Meals are served in the dining room in a single sitting. Open seating allows you to sit at different tables if you wish to meet other fellow passengers.

What are your handicapped facilities like?

Handicapped facilities on board are limited. River cruise vessels are not equipped with wheelchair ramps and hallways and doors may not be wide enough to accommodate wheelchairs. Ships are equipped with an elevator but it does not access all decks (apart from the Sound of Music with no elevator onboard). Additionally, motorcoaches and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions may not be equipped with wheelchair ramps. Any condition requiring special attention must be reported to APT at the time of booking. Facilities and services for passengers with disabilities differ among destinations and, in some cases, may be limited or non-existent. Participants requiring special assistance must be accompanied by a person responsible for and physically able to provide such assistance. Transfers and shore excursions follow a predetermined timetable and thus participants should have no physical impairment(s) that would affect the time schedules or interfere with the rights of other passengers on their holiday. Without limitation, APT and its affiliates are not responsible for any denial of services by airline carriers, cruise vessels, hotels, lodges, coaches, local guides, operators or other independent suppliers.

Are gratuities included??

Gratuities to your Cruise Director and ship crew are included in the tour price.

How do I pay for purchases and services onboard?

For your convenience, all purchases and paid services on board are billed with a guest check and added to your shipboard account. At the end of the cruise, you will receive a total, which can be paid with cash or credit card. The ships do not accept payments made by Diners Club cards. The onboard currency is the Euro.

Do you have a share program for singles?

Solo travellers pay only a 50% single supplement on all suite categories from E to P+ on European River Crusies. On Exclusive Sailings we will match up those who are willing to share a suite with another single traveller of the same gender, so you don't have to pay the single supplement. If no match is found then single supplements apply.

 

Arrival & Departure Information

Prebooked Transfers

All APT clients travelling on an Exclusive Sailing or Exclusive land tours receive a transfer on the first and last day of the tour. This will be from the airport to/from either the ship or tour hotel. A transfer is not included, though may be purchased, should you be arriving or departing on days other than the first and last day of touring. These additional transfers are only applicable when your pre and/or post tour arrangements are booked with Global Journeys & APT.

On Your Own Transfers

If you have not arranged an arrival transfer with Global Journeys, make your own way to the ship or hotel with the help of the information provided in your itinerary. If you have independent travel arrangements prior to your APT tour and do not have an APT transfer, the Tourist Information office at your arrival city will be able to offer assistance with directions to the ship or hotel. If you transfer to the ship on your own, we recommend you call the ship prior to confirm the ships docking location. The APT Europe Office is available in case of an emergency.


Terms & Conditions:

Yep, all the boring small print! Click here to read APT's Terms & Conditons. Please also read Global Journeys Terms & Conditions if you haven't already.

 

Georgie Walpole

Your Tour Consultant Will Be:

Georgie Walpole
Tour Consultant
Email: georgie@globaljourneys.com
Expertise: International Coach Touring & River Cruising
Cruise Details:
Tour Date:  
No. of Travellers: Adults: Children: (6-14 years)
Contact Details (Australia Residents Only):
Full Name:
Address:
Contact Phone: (e.g. (xx) xxxx xxxx)
E-mail Address:
How would you like us to reply? Phone    Email
River Cruise Options:
Cabin Type:
I have travelled with APT before
Pre & Post Cruise Accommodation:
Extra Pre Tour Nights  Extra Post Tour Nights
Flights:
Do you want flights included in your price quote?
  Transfers Required
Additional Tours:
Do you want to receive a quote for any other tours? (Max 3)
Comments:
Comments, promo codes, questions, special requirements? e.g. dietary, physical, medical.

Subscribe to our monthly email, offering exclusive savings, earlybird & last minute specials.
I have read and accept the Terms & Conditions (located on 'Cruise Info' tab)

Amsterdam
 
City:
Month: