Balkan Jewels with Transylvania and Prague
Discover the wonders of the Balkans, Transylvania and Prague on a spectacular 15-day journey. Uncover the treasures of Romania, including Bucharest, Bran Castle and Bra?ov. Then, a seven-night luxury cruise along the Danube River takes you to medieval towns and spellbinding fortresses. Conclude with a three-night stay in Prague.
- 10 Apr 2027 – 24 Apr 2027
from $9,770 pp twin share / $16,620 pp solo *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
- Day 1 – Arrive Bucharest:
Arrive in Bucharest and be transferred to your hotel, where you will join us for a welcome dinner.
- Day 2 – Bucharest:
Set out on a guided exploration of Bucharest’s Old Town this morning. The area has recently undergone a decade of refurbishments, transforming the city’s historic core into a vibrant, walkable quarter. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before a visit to the Palace of the Parliament. Started in 1984, and still unfinished, this enormous building was constructed under the command of former dictator Nicolae Ceaușescu and has over 3,000 rooms.
- Day 3 – Bucharest, Brașov:
Travel to Salina Slănic Prahova, Europe’s largest salt mine. Descend 208 metres underground to discover some of the 14 chambers, as well as the museum. The pure air inside the mine is known for its respiratory healing effects. Later, enjoy dinner before continuing to your hotel in Brașov.
- Day 4 – Brașov, Bran:
This morning will be spent exploring Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’. Perched atop a rocky hill overlooking the town of Bran, the castle’s striking orange turrets tower above a thick forest of trees in the Carpathian Mountains. Wander through its many rooms and admire the 19th-century antiques before returning back to Brașov for lunch. This afternoon, delve deeper into Brașov’s history on a walking tour.
- Day 5 – Brașov, Sinaia, Giurgiu, Embark Ship:
Today, you’ll visit picturesque Peleș Castle, nestled at the foot of the Bucegi Mountains in the town of Sinaia. This neo-Renaissance masterpiece was commissioned by Romania’s first king, Carol I, and took 40 years to build. Enjoy free time for lunch in Sinaia, then travel to your ship in Giurgiu.
- Day 6 – Ruse, Veliko Târnovo:
Discover the wonders of Veliko Târnovo with an expert local guide. Uncover this charming Bulgarian city’s rich history as you wander through its cobbled lanes and fortified walls. Its centrepiece is the spectacular restored Tsarevets Fortress, a medieval citadel of the Second Bulgarian Empire. Savour a delicious lunch at a local restaurant before returning to the ship.
- Day 7 – Vidin, Belogradchik:
Explore Baba Vida Fortress in Vidin. Raised upon the remains of the ancient town of Bononia, the medieval castle dates back to the 10th century. Afterwards, venture to Belogradchik and visit its ancient fortress, perched on the northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains. You’ll also see the town’s unique rock formations.
- Day 8 – Scenic Cruising:
The day is yours to relax on board, sleep in and take it easy, or awake early and take in stunning views from the Daystar Deck.
- Day 9 – Novi Sad:
Choose how you’d like to spend the day in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second largest city.
Freedom of Choice – Guided City Discovery
Enjoy a guided tour of Novi Sad, situated on the banks of the Danube River. Discover the city’s iconic sights found along the main walkway of Zmaj Jovina.
Freedom of Choice – Local Farmstead
Visit a local farmstead for a real dose of Vojvodinian culture, featuring a traditional breakfast, music and freshly-made doughnuts.
- Day 10 – Kalocsa, Puszta:
Enjoy a Signature Experience today.
Signature Experience – Folk Art House and Horse Show
Visit the Folk Art House, where local handicrafts are on show. Then, visit a producer of one of Hungary’s spiciest exports, paprika. Afterwards, a farm in Puszta is the perfect setting for a stellar horse show and authentic Hungarian lunch.
- Day 11 – Budapest:
Set out on your chosen sightseeing activity.
Freedom of Choice – Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum
Embark on an insightful tour of the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum, a museum dedicated to a former secret emergency hospital and nuclear bunker.
Freedom of Choice – Hike to Gellért Hill
Take a guided hike up Gellért Hill and admire the panoramic views over the Danube River. You’ll also see the St Gellért Monument, honouring the Italian bishop and martyr who played a key role in spreading Christianity in Hungary in the 11th century.
- Day 12 – Budapest, Disembark Ship, Velké Bílovice, Prague:
Travel to Velké Bílovice and stop for a light lunch in a traditional restaurant. Afterwards, continue to Prague, where you will have the evening to explore at leisure.
- Day 13 – Prague:
The capital of the Czech Republic captivates you with its millennia-long history. Begin your guided discovery at Prague Castle, where you’ll pause to take in views of the city. Take a leisurely stroll over Charles Bridge on the way to the Old Town Square, where you’ll see the city’s famous Astronomical Clock. As one of Prague’s most beloved landmarks, the medieval clock is more than 600 years old. Tonight, a farewell dinner awaits.
- Day 14 – Prague:
Today is set aside for an exclusive Signature Experience, just outside of the city. The evening is yours to relax or further explore.
Signature Experience – Chateau Jemniště
Descendants of the Czech Republic’s oldest aristocratic family welcome you to their 18th-century baroque home, Chateau Jemniště. Explore the estate and savour a special lunch, then watch on in awe as birds of prey fly free during an incredible falconry display.
- Day 15 – Depart Prague:
Your tour concludes this morning following breakfast. You’ll then be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.
Highlights
- Explore Bucharest, Bran Castle and Bra?ov in Romania.
- Enjoy a 7-night luxury Danube River cruise.
- Conclude with a 3-night stay in the enchanting city of Prague.
Discover the wonders of the Balkans, Transylvania and Prague on a spectacular 15-day journey. Uncover the treasures of Romania, including Bucharest, Bran Castle and Bra?ov. Then, a seven-night luxury cruise along the Danube River takes you to medieval towns and spellbinding fortresses. Conclude with a three-night stay in Prague.
Inclusions
- Bran Castle.
- Belogradchik.
- Folk Art House and Horse Show.
- Chateau Jemništĕ.
FAQs
- Seven Nights, APT Ostara
- Three Nights, Almanac X Prague
- Two Nights, Bucharest, Radisson Blu Hotel
- Two Nights, Radisson Blu Aurum Hotel, Brașov or similar
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 15 days and 14 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 10 Apr 2027 and 24 Apr 2027, subject to live availability.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
Provided by: APTFine Print
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