Transylvania Pre Program & Lower Danube

Your Transylvanian adventure begins

Few things rival the excitement of an upcoming vacation—especially when your vacation begins with another one! After your transfer from Bucharest Airport, settle into the 5-star InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest (or similar) in the heart of the capital. This evening, get to know your fellow travelers over a welcome dinner at the hotel.

Old-World Charm & Luxury in Sibiu

Enjoy breakfast and let the anticipation build as you set out for the region of Transylvania. If you're feeling adventurous, join us on a scenic drive along the Transfăgărășan Highway, an engineering marvel that winds through the dramatic Carpathian landscape in sweeping serpentines. Stop for a leisurely lunch at Valea cu Pești, offering traditional fare in a stunning mountain setting.

Later, arrive in Sibiu, one of the most charming towns in Transylvania and a former European Capital of Culture. After check-in at 4.5-star Ramada by Windham Sibiu Hotel (or similar) enjoy a guided stroll through the historic Old Town—filled with baroque squares, colorful facades, and winding lanes. This evening is yours to explore at your own pace. Why not discover the culinary treasures of Transylvania?

Following Dracula's Footsteps & Saxon Heritage

Ready for a day of discoveries? In the morning, head to Sighișoara, one of Europe's last inhabited medieval citadels. After a brief orientation walk, explore its maze-like streets at your own pace. Visit the Clock Tower, the history museum, the old apothecary, the medieval weapons collection, and even the mysterious torture chamber. For lunch, dine at Vlad Dracul Restaurant—the legendary birthplace of Count Dracula.

In the afternoon, continue to the picturesque village of Viscri, where a walk through the peaceful streets offers a glimpse of life as it has been for centuries. The impressive fortified church stands as a proud testament to Saxon craftsmanship. Later, arrive in Brașov, check in at 5-star Raddison Blu Aurum Hotel Brasov (or similar), and join a guided walk through the medieval heart of the city. The evening is yours to enjoy—perhaps with a traditional meal in one of Brașov's cozy restaurants.

Harman Fortress & an Exclusive Bran Castle Evening

Today brings more medieval marvels and mystical stories. Begin the morning with a visit to the fortified church of Harman, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with imposing walls and hidden corridors, showcasing Saxon architecture at its finest. Back in Brașov, enjoy a walking tour through the city's historic center—passing baroque mansions, Gothic churches, and the iconic Black Church, the largest Gothic building in Southeast Europe.

Spend your afternoon at leisure—relax at the hotel or enjoy a stroll through the Old Town. As night falls, prepare for a hauntingly elegant experience: an exclusive after-hours visit to Bran Castle, famously linked to the Dracula legend. As twilight descends over the castle walls, let yourself be swept away by the mystery. Afterwards, enjoy a gourmet dinner at the Tea House Restaurant on the castle grounds—a magical evening with a touch of the supernatural

Azuga & Sinaia – Sparkling Wines and Royal Fairytales

Ease into your final day with a taste of tradition. Travel to the Carpathian town of Azuga, known for its refined sparkling wines. At the historic Rhein Cellars, the official supplier to Romania's royal family, enjoy an exclusive tour and tasting. Learn how these sparkling gems are crafted using the traditional Champagne method, and stay for a delicious lunch in the cellar's inviting restaurant.

Then, continue to Sinaia, the “Jewel of the Carpathians,” and visit the enchanting Peleș Castle - once the summer retreat of the Romanian royal family. With majestic mountain backdrops, intricate interiors, and rich architectural detail, the castle is a true masterpiece. Return to Bucharest in the evening. After check-in at the 5-star InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest (or similar), your journey comes full circle - leaving you with unforgettable memories and a touch of royal magic.

Palace of the Parliament in Bucharest

Awake in the exciting city of Bucharest, capital of Romania. After a morning cup of coffee, start your adventure by exploring the city, nicknamed “Little Paris” for the French-inspired architecture and stately boulevards. Enjoy the endless historic beauty of key landmarks including State University, the Triumphal Arch, Romanian Athenaeum, and the Royal Palace. Stroll through the historic district and see Stavropoleos, one of the oldest Orthodox churches in the city.

Indulge in local cuisine over lunch, before our tour takes you to the impressive Parliament Palace for a photo stop. In the afternoon, a transfer takes you to the Danube port of Fetești. Shortly after embarkation, your river dream begins. The evening kicks off with a Welcome Cocktail and a Welcome Dinner. It's time to celebrate!

Danube Delta nature experience

Open your eyes, you're in paradise! From Hârşova, discover the breathtakingly beautiful Danube Delta, one of the largest wetland biotopes in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich variety of flora and fauna. The bus takes you from Hârşova to Tulcea to your excursion boats for a delta safari and a voyage of discovery through the beautiful nature reserve. In the evening, a folklore program awaits you on board.

Excursion to the Black Sea Coast of Constanta

After your morning coffee, join us to Constanta, the oldest continually inhabited city in Romania and its largest sea port, tracing its history some 2,500 years. The guided tour through this important cultural and economic center highlights a synthesis of Greek, Roman, Balkan-oriental and European influences and offers views of the Great Mahmudiye Mosque, famous Genoese Lighthouse and Archaeology Museum. Step on the golden beaches of the Black Sea before returning to the ship. This evening, enjoy dinner as the vessel continues to Bulgaria.

Veliko Tarnovo, the oldest town of Bulgaria

As you enjoy morning coffee, the vessel arrives in the Bulgarian town of Svistov, the southernmost point on the Danube. If you wish, you can go ashore here for an excursion to Velkio Tarnovo, the oldest town in Bulgaria. High on a peak are the remains of the medieval town of Tsarevets, where 22 tsars made history in the 2nd Bulgarian empire. Afterwards, the village of Arbanassi promises authentic murals at the Church of the Nativity and rose oil, the local specialty. Enjoy a delicious Bulgarian lunch before reaching the ship in Nikopol.

Cruise day with passage of the famous Iron Gates

Look no further than the Sun Deck or your cabin window for spectacular scenery as we spend a leisurely day aboard. Get your camera ready as we pass through the Iron Gates, the river's narrowest stretch bordered by massive stone cliffs. For more than 110 kilometers, we experience nature at her finest. Europe's highest rock sculpture mirrors the image of Dacian King Decebalus and he peers down at the passing vessel.

Visit of Church of Saint Sava in Belgrade

A new day dawns in a new country. Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia, retains a western influence while remaining true to its deep cultural roots and history. During a morning sightseeing tour, visit Kalemegdan Fortress located at the confluence of the Sava and the Danube with breathtaking views and stories of eventful times. Afterwards, discover the true personality of this city and see the National Museum, the Parliament, and the St. Sava Cathedral, the largest Orthodox church in the world.

Experience rural Hungary

Relax on board in the morning, before your vessel arrives in Mohacs at lunch. A UNESCO World Heritage site, the Puszta in eastern Hungary introduces you to a rare vast grassland nearly unchanged for more than 2,000 years. The sky meets land at the endless horizon and ancient traditions endure. Taste “red gold” when you visit the paprika capital, Kalocsa, where the local cuisine and delicacies include paprika. Travel with us to a local horse show and marvel at the spectacular Hungarian horsemanship and strength.

Evening cruise Budapest with folklore show on board

On this fine morning, a Queen appears along the river. Budapest, the "Queen of the Danube", enchants with her grace and architectural style. During the tour, explore the State Opera House, Parliament, and Heroes Square. From the towers of Fisherman's Bastion, capture the beauty of the river landscape to carry home with you.

If food is your passion, join “An Authentic Taste of Budapest” in the afternoon which starts at the vast market hall and continues to the famous geothermal baths. As the sun lowers beyond the river, our lighted tour through the city serves as the prelude for a full evening of entertainment filled with fun and folklore.

Captain's Gala Dinner

In the afternoon, we arrive in the Slovakian capital. Located at the confluence of the Morava and Danube Rivers, Bratislava impresses with its Gothic and Baroque architecture. During a tour, we take you up to the Castle Hill for breathtaking views. Then walk through the historic center and fall in love with fascinating history of the city. Back on board, celebrate with new friends at our Captain's Gala Dinner.

Disembarkation after Breakfast

Following breakfast, the goodbyes begin. Our AMADEUS crew bids you farewell, wishing you safe travels home with the hope we cruise again together.