Balkan Adventure with Istanbul and Gallipoli

Welcome to Budapest, the historic Hungarian capital. Once you've arrived at the airport, you'll be transferred to your river ship, docked on the Danube River. Stay Seven Nights: aboard your Travelmarvel river ship (D)

Spend the day exploring the sights of Budapest.

This afternoon you may wish to join an optional tour to discover the Hospital in the Rock Bunker Museum, a hospital created in the caverns under Buda Castle in Budapest in the 1930s, in preparation for the Second World War.

This evening, enjoy a Welcome Dinner on board as your ship sets sail, Budapest's monuments twinkling around you. (B/L/D)

From the sleepy port town of Mohacs, history buffs will delight in the chance to travel to the ancient city of Pecs. As Hungary's fifth-largest city, this World Heritage site offers plenty in way of sightseeing. Be sure to check out the copper domes of the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, as well as the 11th-century Pecs Cathedral. (B/L/D)

Following the Croatian War of Independence, Vukovar's economy, infrastructure and culture were in disarray. However, today you will see the efforts taken to restore this city to its former glory. Visit the Vukovar City Museum, hidden inside Eltz Manor and enjoy the chance to wander through the castle complex. (B/L/D)

Get ready to witness nature at its finest today as your ship cruises through the Iron Gates. This spectacular series of gorges connects Serbia and Romania, and makes for an out-of-this-world cruising experience. (B/L/D)

Go ashore to Ruse, an elegant Bulgarian city. Join a walking tour and admire the belle epoque architecture and manicured garden squares, which are reminiscent of Vienna. You'll also pass by Liberty Square, the courthouse, the Ruse Opera House and Alexander Battenberg Square. The afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps visit the Regional Museum of History, the National Transport Museum, or the ancient castle ruins of Sexaginta Prista Fortress. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, disembark your ship and be transferred to Bucharest airport for your flight to Istanbul. On arrival, transfer to your hotel.

This evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Stay Two Nights: Istanbul, Marmara Pera Hotel (B/D)

Today will be spent discovering Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque, St Sophia Museum and the underground Basilica Cistern. After lunch, visit the lavish UNESCO World Heritage site 15th-century Topkapi Palace for a tour. Considered one of the most important historical and cultural landmarks in Turkey, immerse yourself in the grandeur and history of the Ottoman Empire and gain insight into the lives of the sultans and their court. Then explore the Grand Bazaar, a historically significant landmark and one of the largest markets in the world offering traditional Turkish handicrafts and culinary delights. (B/L)

Travel to the Gallipoli Peninsula for a guided exploration of its war memorials. Arrive in Gelibolu for lunch at a local restaurant then continue to the national park area for a tour of the war memorials, including Lone Pine and Chunuk Bair.

Later, arrive in Çanakkale. Stay: Canakkale, Hotel Kolin (B/L/D)

This morning journey south along the Turkish coast today, stopping in the World Heritage-listed city of Troy.

After a guided tour, travel to a local restaurant for lunch then return to Istanbul. Stay: Istanbul, Marmara Pera Hotel (B/L)

This morning after breakfast transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)