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APT Travelmarvel Best of the Balkans
From £2,595 pp
The Best of the Balkans, sailing down the Danube visiting 15 towns and cultural experiences in Hungary, Croatia, Romania, Serbia, Bulgaria. Visit a local Serbian family at their village home and learn about the daily rituals of traditional farm life and enjoy a traditional horse show with Magyar cowboys in Puszta.
What’s Included:
- Return scheduled flights from the UK (fight supplements may apply)
- Unique cultural experiences in up to 15 towns, villages and cities
- Insider Experiences
- Complimentary soft drink, beer and local wine with lunch and dinner on board
- 14 Breakfasts, 12 Lunches and 14 Dinners
- Travelmarvel River Cruise Director and expert local guides
- Overseas transfers, port charges and tipping
Fly into Budapest from the UK.
Arrive at the airport and be transferred to your premium river ship, docked on the Danube River.
Day 2 - Budapest
Spend the day exploring the sights of Budapest.
Visit Castle Hill and admire the sweeping views of the Danube, the Houses of Parliament and Margaret Island. See the bridges arching across the inner city, including the iconic Chain Bridge, which is more than 160 years old.
Cross the Danube and take in its historic monuments, such as Heroes’ Square and St Stephen’s Cathedral.
This evening, enjoy a Welcome Reception and gala Welcome Dinner on board as your ship sets sail, Budapest putting on a show around you.
Day 3 - Mohács, Pécs
From the sleepy port town of Mohács, history buffs will delight in the chance to travel to the ancient city of Pécs.
As Hungary’s fifth-largest city, this World Heritage site offers plenty in the way of sightseeing.
Be sure to check out the copper domes of the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, as well as the 11th-century Pécs Cathedral.
Day 4 - Vukovar
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.
Today, visit the Vukovar City Museum, hidden inside Eltz Manor. Enjoy the chance to wander through the castle complex.
Day 5 - Belgrade
Visit a local family’s village, taking a tour of their home and barn to meet the resident farm animals. Stroll through the family’s fruit orchards to learn about the brewing process of ‘slivovitz’.
This plum brandy is the national drink of choice. In Serbia’s capital, join a guided tour through the city. Perhaps see the Belgrade Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of St Sava.
Insider Experience a traditional Serbian way of living.
Day 6 - Iron Gates
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.
Make sure to have your camera charged and at the ready!
Day 7 - Rousse
Go ashore to Rousse, one of Bulgaria’s most elegant cities. 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 Rousse Opera House and Alexander Battenberg Square.
The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure. Perhaps visit the Regional Museum of History, the National Transport Museum, or the ancient castle ruins of Sexaginta Prista Fortress.
Day 8 - Giurgiu, Bucharest
Spend the entire day in Bucharest, Romania’s hip capital.
Join a guided tour of the city and take in the wide tree-lined boulevards and belle epoque buildings, then walk through the Old City centre to the Royal Court, Stavropoleos Church and the Lipscani district.
The afternoon is yours to spend at leisure, or perhaps you would like to wander the open-air Village Museum and gain an insight into traditional Romanian life.
Day 9 - Rousse, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi
Today you’ll discover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Târnovo. With a local expert, be guided through this medieval city and uncover its rich history.
At its centre, see the restored Tsarevets Fortress, citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire.
After, head to the hilltops to visit Arbanasi, a village brimming with history.
Day 10 - Vidin, Belogradchik
Begin your day in Vidin with free time to explore your own way.
Afterwards, you may like to explore Baba Vida Fortress, a medieval castle which dates back to the 10th century.
Afterwards, head to Belogradchik to visit its ancient fortress on the northern side of the Balkan Mountains.
While you’re here, see the town’s unique rock formations.
Day 11 - Scenic Cruising
The day is yours to spend on board.
Take it easy and relax, taking in postcard-perfect views from the Sun Deck.
Day 12 - Novi Sad
Get out and explore Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, on a guided tour.
Afterwards, spend your free time relaxing, or perhaps visit Petrovaradin Fortress and check out its catacombs.
Day 13 - Kalocsa, Puszta
Get to know Hungary’s oldest town, Kalocsa, set right on the Danube.
The town is best known for its vibrant paprika festival as well as traditional folk art and local handicrafts.
Afterwards, head to Puszta for your Insider Experience.
INSIDER EXPERIENCE In Puszta, enjoy a traditional horse show featuring Magyar cowboys and fine equestrian skills.
Day 14 - Budapest
Return to Budapest, where you will spend the day your own way.
You may wish to visit the Hospital in the Rock.
Day 15 - Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest
Disembark your ship this morning and be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
The new Travelmarvel Polaris, due to launch in April 2020 will feature a stylish restaurant on the Main Deck and Vista Lounge on the Upper Deck, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
The Alfresco Lounge will boast bi-folding windows opening out onto a front veranda, allowing uninterrupted airflow and outdoor access. McGeary’s Bar will offer a casual dining and social area, where you can enjoy hearty pub-style meals.
The 91 spacious staterooms and suites, ranging from 153 sq.ft to the Owners Suite’s 258 sq.ft in size, will feature a host of superior inclusions such as recessed blackout blinds, ensuring the perfect night’s sleep. Suites and French Balcony Cabins on the Middle and Upper decks suites will feature wide horizontal electric windows to create a French style balcony when lowered, making the most of cabin space no matter the weather.
The Top Deck will have a rooftop bar, terrace garden and heated whirlpool will make the most of the outdoor spaces and offer stunning views of the surrounding areas.
Artists impressions of the New Travelmarvel Polaris are provided for guidance.
Onboard Features & Facilities
- 87 comfortable outside cabins and suites, most with opening floor to ceiling windows and french Balcony
- Sun deck with 360-degree views, shaded sitting area, Putting Green & whirl pool
- Open seating Restaurant with tables for 4 to 8 guests
- Vista and Alfresco lounge and bar’s with panoramic windows
- McGeary’s Bar offering Drinks and pub style meals
- Lift from lower to upper decks
- Air conditioned throughout
- Laundry service*
* Payable locally.
Accommodation & Amenities
87 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 153 – 258 ft² . Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.
Owners Suite
258 ft² – Upper Deck
- Floor to ceiling window dropping down to a French balcony with two chairs and a table
- Enhanced sitting area with sofa and armchair
- Mini Bar
- Larger private bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products and fluffy bathrobes
- Hotel style beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- In room safe, hair dryer, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
Cat P, A & A+
167 ft² – Upper Deck
- Floor to ceiling window dropping down to a French balcony
- Bathroom with fluffy bathrobes
- Mini Bar
- Private bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products
- Hotel style Queen beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- In room safe, hair dryer, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
Cat B+, B & C
167 ft² – Middle Deck
- Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
- Private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure
- Hotel Queen size beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- A bed turn down service operates during dinner
- In room safe, mini-bar, hair dryer, full-length mirror, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen televisions with satellite TV channels, GPS and for & aft camera views.
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
Cat D & E
153 ft² – Lower Deck
- Smaller Fixed Window
- Private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products
- Hotel Queen size beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- In room safe, hair dryer, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
The new Travelmarvel Vega, due to launch in 2021 will feature a stylish restaurant on the Main Deck and Vista Lounge on the Upper Deck, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
The Alfresco Lounge will boast bi-folding windows opening out onto a front veranda, allowing uninterrupted airflow and outdoor access. McGeary’s Bar will offer a casual dining and social area, where you can enjoy hearty pub-style meals.
The 91 spacious staterooms and suites, ranging from 153 sq.ft to the Owners Suite’s 258 sq.ft in size, will feature a host of superior inclusions such as recessed blackout blinds, ensuring the perfect night’s sleep. Suites and French Balcony Cabins on the Middle and Upper decks suites will feature wide horizontal electric windows to create a French style balcony when lowered, making the most of cabin space no matter the weather.
The Top Deck will have a rooftop bar, terrace garden and heated whirlpool will make the most of the outdoor spaces and offer stunning views of the surrounding areas.
Artists impressions of the New Travelmarvel Vega are provided for guidance.
Onboard Features & Facilities
- 87 comfortable outside cabins and suites, most with opening floor to ceiling windows and french Balcony
- Sun deck with 360-degree views, shaded sitting area, Putting Green & whirl pool
- Open seating Restaurant with tables for 4 to 8 guests
- Vista and Alfresco lounge and bar’s with panoramic windows
- McGeary’s Bar offering Drinks and pub style meals
- Lift from lower to upper decks
- Air conditioned throughout
- Laundry service*
* Payable locally.
Accommodation & Amenities
87 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 153 – 258 ft² . Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.
Owners Suite
258 ft² – Upper Deck
- Floor to ceiling window dropping down to a French balcony with two chairs and a table
- Enhanced sitting area with sofa and armchair
- Mini Bar
- Larger private bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products and fluffy bathrobes
- Hotel style beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- In room safe, hair dryer, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
Cat P, A & A+
167 ft² – Upper Deck
- Floor to ceiling window dropping down to a French balcony
- Bathroom with fluffy bathrobes
- Mini Bar
- Private bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products
- Hotel style Queen beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- In room safe, hair dryer, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
Cat B+, B & C
167 ft² – Middle Deck
- Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony
- Private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure
- Hotel Queen size beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- A bed turn down service operates during dinner
- In room safe, mini-bar, hair dryer, full-length mirror, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen televisions with satellite TV channels, GPS and for & aft camera views.
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
Cat D & E
153 ft² – Lower Deck
- Smaller Fixed Window
- Private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products
- Hotel Queen size beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
- In room safe, hair dryer, plenty of storage space & telephone
- Flat-screen HD television
- Individually controlled air-conditioning
| Depart | Ship | Embark | From |
|---|
| Apr 12 | Contemporary | Budapest | £2795 | SAVE £1000 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 153 ft², Fixed Windows | Sold Out | ||
| Cat D | Lower Deck | 153 ft², Fixed Windows | £2795 | Was £3795 | |
| Cat C | Middle Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3145 | Was £4145 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3245 | Was £4245 | |
| Cat B+ | Middle Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3295 | Was £4295 | |
| Cat A | Upper Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3395 | Was £4395 | |
| Cat A+ | Upper Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3495 | Was £4495 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £4545 | Was £4545 | |
| Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 258 ft², French Balcony | £4895 | Was £4895 |
| Apr 15 | Contemporary | Budapest | £2795 | SAVE £1000 | Cabin Upgrades |
| Cat E | Lower Deck | 153 ft², Fixed Windows | Sold Out | ||
| Cat D | Lower Deck | 153 ft², Fixed Windows | £2795 | Was £3795 | |
| Cat C | Middle Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3145 | Was £4145 | |
| Cat B | Middle Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3245 | Was £4245 | |
| Cat B+ | Middle Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3295 | Was £4295 | |
| Cat A | Upper Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3395 | Was £4395 | |
| Cat A+ | Upper Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £3495 | Was £4495 | |
| Cat P | Upper Deck | 167 ft², French Balcony | £4545 | Was £4545 | |
| Owner's Suite | Upper Deck | 258 ft², French Balcony | £4895 | Was £4895 |
Enquire now about this cruise & speak to one of our friendly river cruising team on 0800 471 4754.