Balkan Jewels with Bucharest, Transylvania and Prague

Upon arrival in Bucharest you will be transferred to the hotel where you will join us for a welcome dinner. Stay Two Nights: Bucharest, Radisson Blu Hotel (D)

Set out on a guided exploration of Bucharest's Old City this morning. The area has recently undergone a decade of refurbishments, transforming the city's historic core into a vibrant, walkable quarter. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before a visit to the Palace of the Parliament. Started in 1984, and still unfinished, this enormous building was constructed under the command of former dictator Nicolae Ceausescu and has over 3,000 rooms. (B/L)

Travel to the Slanic mine, Europe's largest salt mine. Descend 208 metres underground to discover some of the 14 rooms, as well as the Salt Museum. The pure air inside the mine is known for its respiratory healing effects.

Later, you will enjoy dinner and then continue to your hotel in Brașov. Stay Two Nights: Radisson Blu Aurum Hotel, Brasov or similar (B/D)

This morning will be spent exploring Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula's Castle'. Perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the town of Bran, the castle's striking orange turrets tower above a thick forest of trees in the Carpathian Mountains. Wander through its many rooms and admire the 19th-century antiques before continuing back to Brasov for lunch.

This afternoon, delve deeper into Brasov's history on a walking tour. (B/L)

A visit to Peles Castle awaits today, nestled at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains in the town of Sinaia. This neo-Renaissance masterpiece was commissioned by Romania's first king, Carol I, and took 40 years to build. Enjoy free time for lunch in Sinaia then travel to your ship in Giurgiu. Stay Seven Nights: Concerto River Ship (B/D)

In Veliko Tarnovo, a local expert will guide you through this medieval city. Uncover its rich history as you wander through the city's cobbled lanes and fortified walls. Its centrepiece is the spectacular restored Tsarevets Fortress, citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire. (B/L/D)

Explore Baba Vida Fortress in Vidin. Raised on the remains of the ancient town of Bononia, the medieval castle dates back to the 10th century.

Afterwards, venture to Belogradchik to uncover its ancient fortress on the northern slope of the Balkan Mountains. You'll also see the town's unique rock formations. (B/L/D)

Cruise through the Iron Gates and experience one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders you will encounter on this cruise. (B/L/D)

• Get out and explore Novi Sad, Serbia's second-largest city. Otherwise, call in on a local farmstead for a real dose of Vojvodinian culture – featuring traditional breakfast, music and freshly made doughnuts.

• Uncover all things Hungarian today with a cultural cavalcade in Kalocsa. Local handicrafts are on show at the Folk Art House, then visit a paprika producer. Afterwards, a farm in Puszta is the perfect setting for a stellar horse show and authentic Hungarian lunch.

• The active may like to hike to Gellert Hill, or perhaps enjoy a more relaxed culinary walk through Budapest's Great Market Hall. Alternatively, set out on an insightful tour of the Hospital in the Rock.

Travel to Velke Bilovice and stop for a light lunch in a traditional restaurant.

Afterwards, continue to Prague, where you will have the evening to explore on your terms. Stay Three Nights: Almanac X Prague (B/L)

The capital of the Czech Republic lures you with its long history. Begin your guided discovery at Prague Castle, where you'll pause to take in views of the city. Take a leisurely stroll over Charles Bridge on the way to the Old Town Square, where you'll see the 600-year-old Astronomical Clock.

Tonight, dinner awaits at the Alcron restaurant, a fine dining restaurant known for its use of local Czech produce. (B/D)

• Descendants of the Czech Republic's oldest aristocratic family welcome you to their 18th-century baroque home, Chateau Jemniste. Explore the estate and enjoy a special lunch then watch on in awe as birds of prey free-fly during a falconry display.

Be transferred to the airport. (B)