Legends of the Balkans
Tour Overview
Includes return flights from the UK. Discover the beauty of the Balkans along the Danube River. Begin in Romania’s capital, Bucharest, before exploring stunning sights in Bulgaria as you make your way to Hungary. Small traditional towns and the grand capital Budapest then await.
Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrive Bucharest, Giurgiu, Embark Ship
Location: Bucharest
Accommodation Name: Seven Nights, aboard your Travelmarvel river ship
Meals Included: Dinner
Fly from the UK to Romania’s hip capital, Bucharest. Upon touching down at the airport, be transferred to Giurgiu, where your river ship is docked, ready to begin its voyage. Dinner is served as you cruise down the Danube.
Day 2 : Rousse, Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi
Location: Veliko Turnovo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you’ll discover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Tarnovo. 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 3 : Vidin, Belogradchik
Location: Vidin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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. Later on, 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 4 : Scenic Cruising
Location: Vidin
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The day is yours to spend on board. Take it easy and relax, enjoying postcard-perfect views from the Sun Deck.
Day 5 : Novi Sad
Location: Novi Sad
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 6 : Kalocsa, Puszta
Location: Kalocsa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head to Puszta for your Insider Experience.
Day 7 : Budapest
Location: Budapest
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 the city's historic monuments, such as Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You may like to spend your free time on an optional experience to the Hospital in the Rock.
Day 8 : Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest
Location: Budapest
Meals Included: Breakfast
Disembark your ship this morning and be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
What's Included
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Return scheduled flights from the UK*
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Seven nights cruising on a contemporary Travelmarvel river ship
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Services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director and local guides
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20 meals - Seven breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners
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Onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drink, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise
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Explore six towns, villages and cities
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Transfers, port charges and tipping
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Enjoy a traditional Hungarian horse show with Magyar cowboys in Puszta
Notes
This itinerary is operated by Travelmarvel, part of the APT Travel Group
*Flights from the UK are subject to flight and booking class availability
Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
Low or high water levels may cause disruption to cruising
Group transfers are at set times on Day 1
Prices are for cruise and return flights from the UK only
Check out our Q&As
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What if I have special dietary requirements?
Please ensure you advise APT during your booking process if you or any of your travelling companions have special dietary needs or requests. We aim to cater for all requests which are advised at the time of making your booking.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel Documents are sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Certain information may be required to help finalise your booking.
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What are Freedom of Choice Touring options?
For APT tour programs, you may have the opportunity to select a Freedom of Choice Touring activity. These options are at no additional cost, and confirmed whilst on tour. The Tour Directors will guide you through all of the available options, and assist with booking these for those who are interested. Your brochure or our website will feature Freedom of Choice options for some tours - where applicable. Should time permit, passengers may be given the opportunity to experience a second option by purchasing that option.
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Where do I join the tour?
Most of our itineraries commence with a transfer from the airport, or a meet and greet on Day 1. There may be times recommended for you to fly, which your Sales consultant will provide you. If you choose to fly in a few days prior to your tour commencing and explore independently you will be advised of a time and location to meet the tour group. If booking pre tour accommodation with APT on an exclusive APT tour itinerary, you will receive both a transfer from the airport and on Day 1 of the tour to join your fellow guests. For Europe River cruises, the vessels are available for early boarding upon your arrival. Luggage can be stored at reception, and passengers have access to the main lounge. Cabin check in is available from 3pm.
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How do I advise of Health/Mobility Requirements?
Your Sales consultant will ask you for any requirements pertaining to your Health & Fitness during your booking process. A questionnaire may be required to be completed, which you will be advised.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
APT has been operating for over 95 years!
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What are the luggage requirements?
Each passenger is entitled to take one piece of luggage that does not exceed 160cm - length/height/width (63 inches), weight limit 20kgs (44 pounds). Additional fees may apply for additional luggage, and must be requested by time of final payment. Some safari / adventure tours may have further luggage restrictions where passengers need to pack down to a small soft duffle 10-15kg bag due to the smaller vehicles that are used whilst on tour, this includes Kimberley Wilderness Adventure, Outback Wilderness Adventures, Africa. Your Sales consultant can provide you with specific regulations.
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Is tipping included on my APT tour?
Tipping is included for all APT operated tours. There are a few activities whereby tipping is not included such as Tailor Made Holidays, Africa & South America's City Stays & Extensions, and the Northern Lights Adventure in North America.
Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
APT requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 100 days before departure.