Grand Danube Cruise

Passengers are welcome to check-in onboard from 2:00 p.m. in Vienna before we set sail at 5:00 p.m. This evening there will be a Welcome Cocktail in the Lounge Bar where we will meet the crew before dinner.

Arrive in Budapest this morning. A guided panoramic tour introduces the city's grand architecture, passing the Great Synagogue and Vajdahunyad Castle, with a stop in Heroes' Square. Cross to the Buda side for sweeping views of the Parliament and Chain Bridge, before visiting Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church. Return to the ship for lunch. This afternoon is spent sailing. An optional choir rehearsal will be held in the lounge.

Arrive in the Eastern Croatian region of Vukovar, set at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka rivers. This historic town played a significant role during the Croatian War of Independence. A guided walking tour explores its past and resilience. An optional wine tasting follows before returning to the ship. After lunch, we continue sailing towards Serbia.

This morning we discover the Serbian capital, Belgrade, the city where Austro-Hungarian, Ottoman and Slavic influences converge. A guided tour includes the 17th century Kalemegdan Fortress, offering views over the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Continue on foot through the city centre along Knez Mihailova, lined with elegant buildings and cafés. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure or browse local shops.

Today is devoted to scenic cruising through the Iron Gates, one of the most dramatic stretches of the Danube. The steep gorges form a natural border between Serbia and Romania, with highlights including the rock-carved face of Decebalus and Trajan's Plaque. An optional choir rehearsal will take place this afternoon.

This morning we will hear from one of our guest lecturers as we sail into Ruse. Ruse is often referred to as "Little Vienna" for its elegant architecture. Following lunch, we have a guided tour around Svoboda Square, the Monument of Liberty, and the city's beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings. Highlights include the Regional Historical Museum and, subject to opening, the Ruse Opera House. This evening, enjoy the Captain's Gala Dinner.

This morning, we will travel to Bucharest from our port in Giurgiu, for a full-day exploration of Romania's capital with our packed lunches. A panoramic tour reveals a striking blend of historic and communist-era architecture. Visit the Old Town (Lipscani), including Stavropoleos Monastery, before continuing to the vast Palace of the Parliament — one of the largest administrative buildings in the world. Enjoy free time to explore or relax in one of the city's parks before returning to the ship. This evening, join the Captain for a Farewell Cocktail, followed by dinner and a final performance from our soloists and choir.

After breakfast, transfer to Bucharest Airport for your onward journey. We recommend booking flights departing after 2:00 p.m.