Black Sea Explorer with the Best of the Balkans

Welcome to the wondrous city of Budapest, one of Europe's oldest and most beautiful cities. Upon arrival transfer to your luxurious hotel and unpack for your overnight night stay. Tonight you will meet your fellow travellers and enjoy a delicious welcome dinner. (D)

Today we head south and cross the Croatian border, travelling to the capital Zagreb. Located on the southern slopes of the Medvednica Mountain and on the banks of the Sava River, Zagreb is Croatia's largest city, and it beautifully encompasses its traditional European history with its modern function as the economical and governmental hub of the country. Upon arrival discover this majestic city on a guided tour. Then, check in to your hotel for your two-night special stay. (B/D)

Today, journey to beautiful Plitvice National Park. Wander meandering pathways that pass emerald, green lakes, stepped and linked by magnificent waterfalls. (B)

This morning we leave Croatia and journey to Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Sarajevo is referred by many as the city with a soul; with its unique blend of Western and Eastern styles, the way of life and its pleasant and good-natured people is what makes Sarajevo so alluring. This afternoon arrive at your hotel, your base for the next two nights. (B/L)

Explore the treasures of Sarajevo on a guided tour that includes Bascarsija in the heart of old Sarajevo, Gazi Husrev Beg's Mosque and the Sarajevo Tunnel Museum.

Enrich: Tonight you'll be treated to a private home-hosted dinner of traditional Bosnian cuisine where you'll have the opportunity to learn about everyday life in Sarajevo. (B/D)

Today we head towards the beautiful Mediterranean coast bound for the stunning city of Dubrovnik. On the way we stop in the beautiful city of Mostar. On your guided tour of the city, visit the Turkish house and the Old Bridge which was built by the Ottoman Empire in 1565. Enjoy some free time before continuing to Dubrovnik where you will be accommodated for the next two nights. (B)

This morning see Onofrio's Fountain, the Rector's Palace and visit the Old Pharmacy in the Franciscan Monastery.

Freechoice: Take a scenic journey through the pretty countryside, visit the Konavle villages and the town of Cavtat. Alternatively, if you're feeling more energetic, walk Dubrovnik's medieval ramparts. This evening visit a local farm house where you will get to meet the owners and taste their delicious home grown produce during a mouth-watering dinner. (B/D)

After breakfast continue your journey to Montenegro; although the country is relatively small in terms of area, it boasts stunning mountainous landscapes, truly beautiful walled towns, dramatic coast lines and historic monuments. Today you will discover the Bay of Kotor, the pearl of the medieval Mediterranean, which is presented in its full beauty on your included guided tour. Kotor is locked between a cliff on one side and the blue Adriatic Sea on the other; here you will wander through labyrinths of narrow and cobblestoned streets and see all the major sights including the Romanesque Cathedral of St Triphun which is encircled by walls and the fortress and included on UNESCO's World Heritage list. (B)

Continuing through this beautiful region you will arrive in the historic town of Budva. On arrival take an orientation tour before continuing to the byzantine city of Tirana. The city was founded as an Ottoman town in 1614, and since then it has become the largest city and capital of Albania. (B/D)

After breakfast enjoy your informative city tour of Tirana taking in sights such as Skanderbeg Square, the Clock Tower and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. This afternoon we journey from Albania to the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia and the fascinating town of Ohrid. The area has been declared a World Heritage protected site due to its outstanding natural beauty, historical and cultural heritage, this is your base for the next two nights.

Enrich: This evening enjoy a traditional Macedonian dinner and folklore show in a local restaurant. It's a wonderful opportunity to absorb some of the regions unique culture. (B/D)

Today we enjoy an included tour of Ohrid town. With its temples, ruins and Byzantine basilicas, Ohrid is considered one of the most ancient towns in the Balkans. The name Ohrid comes from its location – built on a hill; the whole town is surrounded by walls and its Fortress is considered to be the oldest and best-preserved in Macedonia.

Freechoice: Take in the lush green scenery during a boat ride on stunning Ohrid lake or, if you are feeling more active, explore the lake by kayak. (B)

Your first stop today is Skopje which has been inhabited since 4000 BC. Skopje was part of the Roman and Byzantine Empires, these influences are still present in this modern capital. Continuing our journey we arrive in Sofia, the capital of Bulgaria, and our centrally located hotel. (B)

With your local guide, you'll get to discover neo-classical Stalinist architecture, tree-lined boulevards and balconied buildings by 19th-century Russian and Viennese architects. (B/D)

This morning enjoy the landscapes of Bulgaria as we journey to the Romanian capital of Bucharest for your overnight stay. (B/L/D)

Today you'll explore the city of Bucharest, with a guided tour of the city by coach. Travel from the south of Bucharest to Primaverii Palace, stopping to see its squares, including Union Square, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square and Charles de Gaulle Square.

Freechoice: This afternoon's Scenic Freechoice:

• Ceausescu's Spring Palace: Located in one of the wealthiest districts in Bucharest, this 1960s residence is made up of 80 spacious and elegant rooms decorated with silk wallpaper, wood panels, paintings by famous Romanian painters, mosaics, marble, chandeliers and mirrors made of Murano glass.
• Village Open Air Museum: Take a visit to the ethnography exhibits depicting Romanian heritage and culture at the Village Open Air Museum. The museum depicts traditional peasant houses, barns, churches and more, rebuilt by craftsmen using traditional techniques.

This afternoon, you will be transferred to Giurgiu, where you will be welcomed on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. (B/L/D)

Arrive in Silistra early this morning, a Bulgarian town that played a significant role in the Russian-Turkish wars.

Freechoice: This morning's Scenic Freechoice:

• Active walk to Silistra Fort: Transfer to Silistra Fort by coach. Upon arrival take a guided walking tour of the fort and learn about its history. It is the best preserved of the six points of the Turkish fortification system, which played an important role in the Russian-Turkish wars.
• Visit Alfatar Village: Take an excursion to the small village of Alfatar, located just outside of Silistra. Visit the ethnographic museum featuring a typical country house, where visitors will see how the residents of this region have lived over the centuries and have kept their traditions alive. Also see the beautifully restored Holy Trinity temple, a treasured symbol of the Bulgarian Orthodox religion, and visit the Alfatar school to meet local children and learn about daily life for young Bulgarians.
• Excursion to Varna: Take a full-day excursion to the Black Sea coast. Start your tour in the seaside town of Balchik, famous for its beautiful Botanical Gardens. Afterwards you will have a typical Bulgarian lunch in a local restaurant before visiting the city of Varna. Varna is a cosmopolitan city, home to Roman bath ruins, a white-sand beach, and many open-air bars and restaurants. Your local guide will be delighted to show you through the city, including the recently renovated Cathedral and the Military Naval Museum.

Relax in the sunshine on the Sun Deck this afternoon as you enjoy the scenery of the Danube rolling by. Download the Scenic Tailormade App to listen to river commentary and gain insight to the villages and sites you're passing. (B/L/D)

This morning you'll arrive in Rousse (or Ruse), which has been described as ‘Little Vienna'.

Freechoice: Choose one of today's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

• Guided city tour of Rousse: Join a local guide on a sightseeing tour of this opulent town, resplendent in Belle Epoque architecture and leafy manicured squares. Afterward you'll enjoy a short piano recital and some free time to wander, before returning to the ship.
• Excursion to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi: Take a full-day excursion from Rousse to Veliko Tarnovo, one of Bulgaria's oldest towns which is built among lush forested hills and on the banks of the twisting Yantra River. In the 14th century as the Byzantine Empire weakened, Veliko Tarnovo was the Bulgarian capital and was known as the third Rome. On the way to town, you will stop to enjoy the panoramic views of the old town and see the Asenevtsi Brothers Monument. You will then venture to the nearby leafy village of Arbanassi, stopping to see the 17th century Konstantsalieva House for an insight into how affluent locals lives, and the Christ Nativity Church.

This afternoon, relax on board as you continue to sail along the Danube. Mingle with other guests as you sit back with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar and soak up the scenery. (B/L/D)

Today you will cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Iron Gates, a narrow gorge carved out between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. This stretch of the Danube is the natural border between Serbia and Romania and features four narrow gorges, soaring cliffs and the might rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king.

Spend some time relaxing in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Danube. Or perhaps you'd prefer to sweat it out in the state-of-the-art gym or take time out in the wellness centre. (B/L/D)

Arrive in the capital of Serbia this morning. Belgrade is known as the ‘Door to Central Europe' and lies at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This eclectic city is steeped in history, with Neolithic ruins found nearby, a fortress built by the Romans, Brutalist buildings that sit beside Art Nouveau buildings and a bohemian vibe. One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times.

Freechoice: This morning's Scenic Freechoice:

• Guided city tour with extended free time: By coach and foot, you'll tour the major sites of the city with a guide. You will explore the city's highlights such as cobbled streets of the Bohemian Quarter and Kalemegdan Fortress, an imposing structure that has been the site of more than 100 battles and offers panoramic views of the rivers below. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore on your own.
• Guided city tour including Tito's Memorial: Join a more in-depth tour of Belgrade with a local guide. See and learn about the major sites of the city including the Ottoman heritage of the old town, the imposing fortress and Republic Square followed by some free time in the city centre. During this tour you will also visit the memorial dedicated to Tito, the former ruler of Yugoslavia.
• Cycling tour along the Danube: Trace the banks of the Danube on two wheels during this guided cycling tour. Learn about the region and its people, including the history of Yugoslavia and Belgrade from WWII to today. You will see the Palace of Serbia (the former seat of the government of Yugoslavia), the historic neighbourhood centre of Zemun, which became part of Belgrade in the early 1900s and still has a distinct character, and Staro Sajmiste, a former concentration camp.
• Walking tour with a student: Learn about life in Belgrade from a local. Get to the heart of the city and understand the troubles and triumphs that Belgradians have experienced. You'll get to know these happy and resilient people as you are guided through their city with a local student.

This afternoon is free at leisure to explore Belgrade further. Soak up the bohemian culture with a wander along cobblestoned Skardalija Street, a district once frequented by writers and artists and other creative souls, now home to traditional restaurants, local stores and galleries.

Enrich: Tonight, we have a special treat in store for you with our Scenic Enrich event:

• Classical concert at St. Sava Temple: Visit the St. Sava, the largest orthodox temple in the Balkans. Have a chance to explore the frescos-lined walls of the cathedrals crypt where the church choir will perform some of the most beautiful hymns just for you. Because of the acoustics in the crypt, this is a once of a lifetime opportunity. (B/L/D)

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive this morning in the Croation town of Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history. Osijek was at the epicentre of the 1990s war, and its scars are still evident on its buildings today.

Freechoice: This morning's Scenic Freechoice:

• Walking tour of Osijek: Take a guided walking tour of Osijek to see the highlights of the town including the well-preserved Baroque Old Town and fortress. You'll also have the opportunity to hear some traditional and classical music popular in the region.
• Boat cruise at Kopacki Rit: Covering 238 hectares, Kopacki Rit is one of the largest natural wetlands in Europe, , and you will have the opportunity to explore it by boat. Learn more about this beautiful untouched nature in the easternmost part of Croatia through a presentation by one of the park's rangers. During a 50-minute boat ride, you will cruise among lush greenery, hundred-year-old willow woods, meadows and spot the variety of flora and fauna including deer, wild boar, white tailed eagle and black stork.
• Ancestry of the Kitchen: Recipes have long been passed down through generations and often kept as family secrets. Today, guests will meet with a local who will divulge a family recipe of traditional fish stew, while also chatting to you about life in this region.

After your touring this morning, all guests will visit the home of a typical Croatian family and have lunch with the family members. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience, and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host's garden. North-eastern Croatia is the ‘bread basket' of the country, so it is only natural that the villagers take great pride in their gardens, from which ingredients are used to make a feast for both the palate and the eyes. (B/L/D)

This morning you'll have free time on board as you sail towards Kalocsa, one of the oldest towns in Hungary. This historic town has some of the richest folk art in the world and was an important agricultural centre in the 19th century.

Freechoice: Todays' Scenic Freechoice: Hungarian Traditions: The region of Kalocsa is teeming with culture and traditions. It is famous for its traditional handicrafts such as needlework and embroidery. Learn about the origins of these beautiful designs as well as other crafts. Hungarian Horse Show: Kalocsa is located on the Great Hungarian Plain, with an agricultural history dating back more than 2,000 years. Witness a traditional horse show, meet the local horsemen who will demonstrate impressive equestrian skills and enjoy a tasting of local delicacies. (B/L/D)

Arrive in Budapest this morning, one of Europe's most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene. Enjoy an overnight stay. (B)

After breakfast, transfer to Budapest airport for your onward flight. 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. (B)