Discover the Treasures of the Danube

Welcome to Bucharest, where you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel, perfectly situated in the centre of the city, for your overnight stay.

Nicknamed the ‘Paris of the East', the centre of Bucharest exudes a distinctive Parisian atmosphere, with wide avenues adorned by famous landmarks and quaint leafy boulevards that cross the city. With free time this evening, you can set out to explore the city on your own.

Explore Bucharest this morning. After your insightful tour, you'll be transferred from Bucharest to Giurgiu, on the banks of the Danube, where a warm welcome from your captain and crew awaits on board your Emerald Star-Ship.

Included Excursion Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace
Learn about Bucharest's vibrant history on a guided coach tour, passing by the Palace of Parliament. Visit the Spring Palace and the private residence of Nicolae Ceausescu.

Today, your Emerald Star-Ship will cruise into Rousse, Bulgaria's most elegant city. This important port on the Danube is often called ‘Little Vienna' thanks to its elegant Belle Epoque and Neo Baroque architecture, leafy squares and wide boulevards.

Included Excursion Walking tour of Rousse
Be immersed in history as you wander through Bulgari's ‘Little Vienna'. Admire the Court House, City Hall, Opera Building, the main shopping street Alexandrovska and St. Trinity Church, then enjoy coffee and cake at a local restaurant.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Ivanovo Church
Transfer to the River Lom Nature Park for an active hike to the World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo. Dating from the 13th and 14th centuries, these remarkable structures are lined with exquisite frescoes representing biblical scenes.

DiscoverMORE Full day Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi extra expense)
Visit Veliko Tarnovo and learn about its rich history as the former capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire. This medieval city was built atop three hills, and its fortifications and cobbled streets will delight history lovers. Nearby, Arbanasi sits on a high plateau overlooking the Yantra. Each street in the area is lined with traditional houses, and old churches offer centuries of exploration. Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 8.5 hours

EmeraldPLUS Bulgarian choir performance

Viticulture is at the heart of the most western town in Bulgaria, where sweeping vineyards pepper the banks of the Danube and winemaking has prospered for generations. Vidin is one of Bulgaria's oldest riverside towns, beginning life as a Thracian settlement more than 2,000 years ago, and is home to Baba Vida, a preserved medieval fortress in the country.

Included Excursion Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress
Get an introduction to the best of Vidin's viticulture, as you stroll through a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting session of their local wines like gamza, the region's signature pale red varietal.

Later, visit Baba Vida, a medieval fortress whose name can be translated to mean ‘Granny Vida'.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress
Transfer to Belogradchick Rock Fortress Park for a guided hike to its ancient mountaintop fortress. First built when the region was part of the Roman Empire, it has been used and extended in the 14th century and by the Ottomans in the 19th century, right up until the Serbo-Bulgarian War in 1885.

DiscoverMORE Traditional Bulgarian pastry making (extra expense)
Watch your host prepare a traditional Bulgarian banitsa pastry, before joining a demonstration and learning to make your own. Banitsa is a very popular Bulgarian dish, consisting of dough sheets with various fillings, the most popular being white cheese and eggs. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting, served with a bowl of the famous Lactobacillus Bulgaricus yoghurt. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours 15 minutes

Relax on board as you cruise through the Iron Gates, a picturesque narrow gorge that meanders between the Carpathian Mountains and the European Alps. Look out for the huge rock carving of Decebalus, the last King of Dacia.

Later, cross into Serbia and dock in the town of Donji Milanovac, set on the right bank of the Danube. Surrounded by spectacular landscapes and with a rich heritage, it's the gateway to one of Europe's most important archaeological sites.

Included Excursion Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum
Visit the Palaeolithic site of Lepenski Vir, the oldest urban settlement in Europe. Enjoy learning about the significance of this archaeological site, which changed modern understandings of the early Stone Age, and its illustrious history, spanning over eight millennia.

DiscoverMORE Golubac Castle Visit (extra expense)
Take a walking tour of the medieval Golubac Fortress. The castle was built at the entrance to the Iron Gates, at the point where the Danube is the widest and then runs into the gorge of the Carpathian Mountains. An exceptional strategic point, it enabled easy control of all the land and waterways that connected the East and the West, whereas the steep and inaccessible cliffs on which the fortress was built offered natural protection. Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

The Serbian capital Belgrade is one of the oldest continually inhabited cities in Europe and has lived a multitude of lives over the last 2,000 years. It has been shaped by conflict and still bears the scars of bombings from World War II through to the 1990s. At the same time, this gritty centre is filled with beautiful architecture, engaging street art and a legendary cafe culture that can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire.

This evening, you will be invited to the Horizon Lounge, where a traditional Serbian folklore show will provide spectacular entertainment.

Included Excursion Highlights of Belgrade
This city tour introduces you to the highlights of one of Europe's oldest cities. Relax as your coach takes you through the centre of this peaceful city to see the symmetrical façade of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the world's largest church buildings, the Parliament Building, Republic Square, City Hall and more. Finish with a drive through Belgrade's wealthiest neighbourhoods and past Tito's Mausoleum.

EmeraldPLUS Serbian folklore evening show on board
Watch local musicians and dancers perform traditional dances from around Serbia while wearing authentic, colourful costumes.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour in Belgrade
Cycle through Belgrade with a local guide to experience the city's landmarks and natural beauty along the Danube. Learn about the diversity of the local area as well as the history of the city and its people, including the former country of Yugoslavia. Highlights include the Belgrade Waterfront, Staro Sajmiste (former concentration camp), and Ada Island.

DiscoverMORE Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense)
Learn the story of Serbian-American Nikola Tesla at the intriguing museum dedicated to the life and work of one of the world's most famous inventors. You'll see magnificent working models of Tesla's machines, his various personal items and his visions of the future. Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

The second-largest city in Serbia, Novi Sad, has a relaxed atmosphere and lively spirit that sets it apart from other major cities in the region. You'll find the locals relaxing in leafy parks, swimming in the river and sharing drinks in busy laneway bars. It's compact and easily walkable, dotted with grand public buildings, excellent museums and the striking Petrovaradin Fortress.

Included Excursion Guided tour of Novi Sad
Set out on an easy walking tour of the city with a local guide. See the market, Orthodox Cathedral, City Hall, Catholic Cathedral, and enjoy a visit to the Synagogue.

EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted lunch with a Serbian family
Visit the home of a local Serbian family and join them for a traditional lunch. During the meal, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and discuss Serbian traditions and the daily life of the people.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour in Novi Sad
Discover Novi Sad on two wheels with this guided e-bike tour. Ride along the Danube promenade and pass iconic landmarks. Learn about the city's history, culture and local life from your guide while enjoying a leisurely cycling pace.

This afternoon, dock in Ordas. This tiny village on the left bank of the Danube is in one of Hungary's most fertile agricultural regions, which is famous for its paprika.

This evening, enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show and dinner on board as you cruise towards Budapest.

EmeraldPLUS Puszta Equestrian Heritage
Travel to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, for a traditional performance showcasing the exceptional equestrian skills of the Magyar cowboys. Relax as you watch their spectacular horse parade and witness their exercise drills, most of which were practised in preparation for wartime.

EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner, then a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.

Today enjoy your leisure day and continue exploring the magnificent city of Budapest.

EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show
This evening, enjoy a lively Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.

Wake in Budapest this morning. The Hungarian capital is divided by the iconic Danube River, with Buda and Pest on either side. They can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city's most symbolic structures.

Included Excursion Guided coach tour of Budapest
Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed centre, travelling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue, Heroes' Square, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman's Bastion.

EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Gellert Hill
Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike up to the World Heritage-listed site of Gellért Hill. On your walk, take in the stunning views of the Danube River and the city's architecture. You'll pass landmarks like Várkert Bazaar and beautifully landscaped gardens, making this an unforgettable experience in Budapest.

Bordering Austria and Hungary, the Slovakian capital is yours to discover today. Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, Bratislava is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. At the same time, the complex history of Communism can be found in its Brutalist landmarks and military monuments.

Included Excursion Walking tour of Bratislava
Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city or on a hike to Bratislava Castle. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Bratislava Castle
This active excursion begins at the port of Bratislava, passing the monumental building of the Slovak National Theatre and continuing to the extensive riverside promenade. Admire the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral, the most famous sacral building in Bratislava, climb the hill to Bratislava Castle for panoramic views, see St Michael's Gate and walk through the main square.

EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
Be invited into the home of a local Slovakian family to learn about their culture over coffee and cake. Get an insight into their history, culture and traditions as they show you how they live every day.

DiscoverMORE Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)
On this truly insightful tour of Bratislava in a Skoda car, you'll learn about life during the Communist era through real personal stories from your guide and enjoy some local, authentic refreshments from this time. This off-the-beaten-track tour brings the story of Bratislava in the turbulent 20th century alive. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

DiscoverMORE Carpathian wine route (extra expense)
Explore the viticultural towns of the Small Carpathian Wine Route, including the vineyards of Vinosady and a family-run winery in Senkvice. You'll learn about the proud heritage of winemaking and sample some local wines in a historic wine cellar. Activity Level: Moderate, Duration 4hr 40min

Austria's breathtaking capital is recognised for its cultural legacy. As the former residence of Mozart and Beethoven, a multitude of imperial palaces represent a rich history, and the museum district boasts contemporary buildings, housing the work of some of the world's most prolific artists.

Included Excursion Art tour of Vienna, including Kunsthistorisches Museum
Discover the creative heart of the city on an art tour that showcases its world-class galleries and museums, including the Kunsthistorisches Museum — Austria's largest and one of the most celebrated art institutions in the world.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour of Vienna
Embark on a guided e-bike tour of Vienna to Danube Island. Your guide will provide insight into why Vienna is the most liveable city in the world and share personal stories, introducing you to a different side of the city. This is an opportunity to visit places other travellers won't see and experience the authentic Vienna.

DiscoverMORE Viennese evening concert (extra expense)
With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna's most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz' and the ‘Radetzky March'. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Stop in enchanting Dürnstein this morning, from where you'll get to visit one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys, and active excursions can show you more of the surrounding countryside

Later, relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise through the World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Melk, nestled in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Tracing its origins to Roman times and early medieval rulers such as the Babenbergs, this vibrant town charms with its blend of stunning Baroque architecture, wonderful river views and rich cultural heritage.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle
Hike to Dürnstein Castle, the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the Crusades. Conquer the challenging yet rewarding trail, and you'll be able to take in the spectacular panoramas of the river and surrounding countryside from the peak.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour along the Danube
Enjoy an active guided e-bike ride along the Danube from Dürnstein to Melk, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns before settling down for a picnic on the riverbanks. E-bikes will take you smoothly along the 30km route through picturesque surroundings, including a relaxing break for a refreshing drink along the way.

EmeraldPLUS Göttweig Abbey with Organ Recital
Explore this ancient abbey today on a special tour. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape since 2000, it's one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys and attracts visitors from all over the world. Built in 1083, it continues to serve as a spiritual centre in the heart of Lower Austria and is run by a community of around 34 monks. End your visit with a private recital in the abbey's church – a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Situated on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is a postcard-worthy destination that has been shaped by the surrounding waterways. Maze-like romantic lanes weave through the city, opening into large squares and magical promenades adorned with classical boutiques.

Included Excursion Guided tour of Passau
On this morning's walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop's Residence and St. Stephen's Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour along the River Inn
Alternatively, those feeling active can join a picturesque e-bike tour along the River Inn, one of the three rivers converging in Passau.

Cruise the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg today. As you continue down the Danube, one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities welcomes you with two millennia of history. Despite its ancient past, modern-day Regensburg has a relaxed atmosphere, its streets made lively by the high population of university students.

Return for lunch on board and an afternoon peacefully cruising along the Danube. Later tonight, enjoy a waltz dance class on board.

EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour to Walhalla monument
Those feeling more active can join an e-bike tour to the Walhalla monument, which towers high above the slopes of the Danube. From here, you'll enjoy a fascinating view of the river and the surrounding landscape.

EmeraldPLUS Walking tour of Regensburg with Bavarian sausage tasting
Set out on foot to discover the highlights of Regensburg. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the World Heritage-listed Old Town and 13th-century Town Hall invite you to live through the city's history. The highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Followed by a Bavarian sausage tasting experience at a local restaurant for a taste of the region's flavours. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

EmeraldPLUS Bavarian band performance on board
Make your way to the Horizon Bar & Lounge for a special performance from a Bavarian band, who will play traditional music and wear their authentic Lederhosen.

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to Munich Airport, taking memories of the Danube with you.

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 for further information.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.