AUSTRIA, SLOVAKIA, HUNGARY, CROATIA, SERBIA, ROMANIA, AND BULGARIA
On this air-inclusive trip, sail down the Danube River stopping at some of Eastern Europe’s most fascinating cities—from Vienna and Budapest to Belgrade and Bucharest. Before setting sail, go sightseeing in Vienna, which features beautiful palaces and modern architecture. Then, depart on the ship to Bratislava, Slovakia where you’ll explore the sights around Old Town. Next stop down the river takes you into Hungary for a visit to Budapest. You’ll tour the city and then have full day to discover sights at your leisure. Sail along the picturesque Drava River to Croatia for a day around Osijek and then set your sights on Serbia, with stops at the charming cities of Novi Sad and Belgrade. Admire the stunning vistas as we cruise to Bulgaria, bringing you to Vidin.
New in 2019: smarTours travelers will be sailing on an upgraded ship—the 5-star, deluxe MS River Discovery II!
Itinerary at
a Glance
- 10-night Cruise from Vienna to Bucharest
- Vienna (Austria)
- Bratislava (Slovakia)
- Budapest (Hungary)
- Osijek (Croatia)
- Novi Sad (Serbia)
- Belgrade (Serbia)
- Vidin (Bulgaria)
- 1 night in Bucharest hotel
- Optional Dracula’s Castle Extension
Tour
Highlights
- Hofburg Palace (Vienna)
- St. Martin’s Cathedral (Bratislava)
- Matthias Coronation Church (Budapest)
- Gypsy Concert (On Board – Budapest)
- Old Town with Concert (Osijek)
- Petrovaradin Fortress (Novi Sad)
- Kalemegdan Fortress (Belgrade)
- Iron Gates Gorge
- Baba Vida Fortress (Vidin)
- Palace of Parliament (Bucharest)
- Optional Dracula’s Castle Extension
Your Tour
Includes
- Round-trip airfare from New York (JFK)
- Airfare taxes, fees & fuel surcharges
- 10-night cruise aboard the deluxe MS River Discovery II (Cruise Ship A) in an outside facing cabin on the Odyssey Deck or MS River Navigator (Cruise Ship B)
- One night in a Bucharest hotel
- Port charges
- 30 meals: 11 buffet breakfasts (B), 9 lunches (L), 10 dinners (D)
- Wine or beer with lunches and dinners
- Comprehensive sightseeing tours, shore excursions, onboard lectures, folklore performances, and concerts
- Free Wi-Fi (where available)
- English-speaking cruise director and tour guides
Your extension includes:
- Transportation to and from the Carpathian Mountains resort of Brasov and nearby Dracula’s Castle
- Breakfast (B) daily and two dinners (D)
- Tour of Peles Castle, Brasov City & Dracula’s Castle
Tour Itinerary
Budapest (Hungary)
Morning at sail. In the afternoon, your motor coach tour of this lovely city will include the most popular sights: The Parliament Building, St. Stefan Cathedral, the Opera, the Square of Heroes, (the Millennium monument) and the town park with the Vajdahunyad Castle, etc. There will be stops at the Square of Heroes, the Fisherman’s Bastion and Gellert Hill. Prior to dinner enjoy a short live concert of Hungarian Gypsy music performed in the lounge. The rest of the evening is at leisure. You may consider an optional Hungarian Folklore show followed by nighttime views of the beautiful…
Novi Sad (Serbia)
Welcome to Serbia! When you wake up this morning, you’ll say hello to Novi Sad, Serbia’s lively university town. You will be delighted with this pedestrian-friendly town as you are led on a walking tour through the town center and the Petrovaradin Fortress, referred to as the “Gibraltar on the Danube.” Built in the 18th century on over 116 hectares, the fortress has four levels and more than 16km of underground tunnels. After the tour enjoy free time to explore the many charming streets lined with small shops and inviting outdoor cafes. This evening continue…
Belgrade
Witness the “new” Belgrade today as it rebuilds and once again warmly welcomes Western visitors. Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is located on a hill at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers. This ancient city, dating back to the Roman Empire, was destroyed and rebuilt several times during its tumultuous history. This morning’s motorcoach tour of the city highlights includes the Kalemegdan Fortress, the imposing St. Sava Cathedral and the cobblestone bohemian quarter of Skadarlija. Afternoon at leisure to explore vibrant Belgrade on your own or join an optional…
Disembark/Bucharest (Romania)/Dracula's Castle Extension
Dock at the Romanian port of Turnu Magurele and journey to nearby Bucharest, the capital of Romania, founded in 1459 by order of Prince Vlad Tepes, the original “Dracula.” Over the years, it has gone from times of greatness to periods of grief but especially flourished in the early 20th century when it was known as “Little Paris.” The influence of French architecture is still evident throughout, from the Arc de Triomphe to the Enescu Museum and the wide, tree-lined boulevards throughout the city. A panorama tour includes Revolution Square, and the imposing Palace…
Guided Tour Pricing
| Depart | Return | Depart - Return | Best Value Pricing - Reserve by Sep 30, 2019 | Reserve after Sep 30, 2019 | Select Tour | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 2020 | w/ eCheck Discount | Sale | After Sale | ||
| April 12 | April 24 | Apr 12 - Apr 24 | $3,199 | $3,299 | $3,599 | Book Now: |
| May 2 | May 14 | May 2 - May 14 | $3,599 | $3,699 | $3,999 | Book Now: |
| May 31 | June 12 | May 31 - Jun 12 | $3,599 | $3,699 | $3,999 | Book Now: |
| June 11 | June 23 | Jun 11 - Jun 23 | $3,699 | $3,799 | $4,099 | Book Now: |
| July 21 | August 2 | Jul 21 - Aug 2 | $3,699 | $3,799 | $4,099 | Book Now: |
| August 30 | September 11 | Aug 30 - Sep 11 | $3,599 | $3,699 | $3,999 | Book Now: |
| September 28 | October 10 | Sep 28 - Oct 10 | $3,499 | $3,599 | $3,899 | Book Now: |
| October 9 | October 21 | Oct 9 - Oct 21 | $3,499 | $3,599 | $3,899 | Book Now: |
Rates are based on double occupancy from New York (JFK).
2019 Departures: Single room supplement add $1649
2020 Departures: Single room supplement add $1599
Jun. 20 & Oct. 21 ’19 Departures: Please note the extension is not available
Jul. 30 ’19 Departure: Please note air-inclusive program only available for main cruise + extension. Main cruise available as land-only (no air available).
May 31, Sep. 17 & Oct. 7 Departures: Please note this is a reverse sailing. Extension not available.
DRACULA’S CASTLE EXTENSION:
2019 Departures: $549 based on double occupancy / $699 based on single occupancy
2020 Departures: $599 based on double occupancy / $729 based on single occupancy
Jul 10 ’19 Departure: Dracula’s Castle Extension is $649 based on double occupancy / $799 based on single occupancy
MS RIVER DISCOVERY II (CRUISE SHIP A) CABIN UPGRADE:
Rates are based on Odyssey Deck (Cat C) cabins with half windows. Upgrade to higher category cabins:
• CAT. B, Explorer Deck with outside facing cabin with french balconies: add $349 in 2019 / add $399 in 2020
• CAT. A, Navigator Deck outside facing cabin with french balconies: add $599
• Jr. Suite, Navigator Deck with outside facing cabin floor to ceiling French balconies: add $899 in 2019 / add $999 in 2020
All departures (except for Oct. 22 ’19) on the MS River Discovery II
MS RIVER NAVIGATOR CABIN UPGRADE:
Rates are based on Odyssey Deck (Cat C) cabins with half windows. Upgrade to higher category cabins:
• CAT. B, Explorer Deck outside facing cabin with big panoramic windows: add $299
• CAT. A, Navigator Deck outside facing cabin floor to ceiling French Balconies : add $549
• Jr. Suite, Navigator Deck outside facing cabin floor to ceiling French Balconies : add $799
Oct. 22 ’19 Departure on the MS River Navigator
For more information on this tour, please contact us here or call us during business hours (Mon-Fri, 9:00-9:00 EST and Sat-Sun, 10:00-6:30 EST) at 800-337-7773.
Reservations and Payments
Reservations can be made by phone (1-800-337-7773) and will be confirmed upon receipt of $300 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit which must be received within 48 hours of reservation. Full payment is due 90 days prior to departure. Baggage fees may apply. Space and prices subject to availability. For complete booking information and terms & conditions click here.
Extended Tours
Optional Tours Customize your trip with these optional tours.
To make your cruise more even more memorable, we’ll offer several optional tours and cultural/dining evening activities. These are subject to change (and others will likely be added), and the prices are approximate. They are payable by cash (euros) or by credit card with a surcharge. Note that optional tours are non-refundable.
Puszta - Horse Show
- Kalosca
- From approx. 55 Euros Per Person
Visit the Lazar Lovas Puszta, and enjoy an unforgettable performance by the Czikos, the Hungarian Cowboys. They’ll perform several breathtaking riding tricks and will introduce you to the skills of the local horsemen. You will see how they train their animals, how they ride their four-horse carriages, ride without a saddle, and much more. Afterwards you will have the opportunity to tour the stables, home to more than 100 horses. Enjoy an authentic “ride to the Puszta” in several teamed oxen carts to a nearby outpost where you will have a chance to taste the local…
Historical Landmarks in the Iron Gates
- From approx. 35 Euro Per Person
This tour connects different points over time and opens the way through the history of this part of Europe.
Disembark the ship right by the impressive fortress of Golubac. Start your tour with a visit of this important witness of the local history. Established in the 13th century by the Serbs, the fortress played an important role at this strategic point of the river, being held at times by Hungarians, Ottomans, again Serbs. Today the impressive fort with 9 towers will take you to Lord of the Rings World. Afterwards, the drive along the first section of the Danube gorge will offer…
Belogradchik Rocks
- Belogradchik
- From approx. 37 Euro Per Person
Take the tour to the most famous natural phenomena in the region, Belogradchik Rocks. This rocky fairy-tale is spread from west to east and it is 30km long and 3km wide. The most attractive rocks are around the town and named as The Madonna, The Monks, The Rider, The Dervish, The Bear, Adam and Eve, The Castle, The Little Shepherd, The Mushrooms, The Lion and many others. The Belogradchik fortress is situated at an altitude of 610 m above sea level. Experience the memorable view from the top of the fortress.
Important Note: This tour is only recommended for active…
Featured Accommodations
MS River Discovery II
Built in 2012, the MS River Discovery II represents a new generation of river cruise vessels sailing the rivers of Europe! The 71 deluxe cabins are all 165 square feet in size, outward facing, and furnished with modern furniture, hotel-style twin beds, bathrooms with glass-enclosed showers and hair dryers, flat screen TV’s, mini safes, US plugs, and plenty of storage space. They are distributed over 3 decks with the Lower Odyssey Deck featuring half-windows, while cabins on the Middle and Upper decks all feature full floor to ceiling French Balconies which allow you to open your room…
MS River Navigator
Built in 2002 and completely renovated from hull up in 2013, the River Navigator is the epitome of style and elegance! Her public areas consist of an elegant restaurant, a 1950’s themed Rat Pack bar including an original juke box and statue of Frank Sinatra, a wonderful panorama lounge, a cozy library and an over-sized covered sun deck offering fabulous views of the passing countryside. All standard twin cabins are 165sq ft in size and are spread over 3 decks. Category C cabins located on the lower deck feature half-windows, Category B cabins located on the middle deck feature big…
Before You Depart
FLIGHT INFORMATION
Your flights from New York’s JFK Airport to Europe are on the following airlines with the corresponding schedules. We recommend that you arrive at the airport at least 3 ½ hours before the scheduled departure.
| Departure Date | Airline | |||
| Depart | Return (main tour) | Return (with ext) | ||
| 2019: Sep. 28 | Austrian Airlines/Lufthansa Airlines | 5:30PM | 8:00PM | 2:30PM |
| 2019: Oct. 7 | Lufthansa Airlines | 9:55PM | 8:00PM | N/A |
| 2019: Oct. 21 | Austrian Airlines/Lufthansa Airlines | 5:30PM | 9:30PM | N/A |
| 2020: Apr. 12 | Lufthansa Airlines | 5:30PM | 8:00PM | 8:00 |
| 2020: May 2, Jun. 11 | Swiss Airlines/Lufthansa Airlines | 9:00PM | 8:00PM | 8:00 |
| 2020: Jul. 21, Sep. 28 | TBA | TBA | TBA | TBA |
Please make sure to allow sufficient time for clearing immigration and customs if you are planning a connecting flight. We recommend at least 3 ½ hours. Please keep in mind that flight schedules are always subject to change.
ADVANCE SEAT ASSIGNMENT
Please note that the above airlines do not assign seats in advance. Seat assignments can only be arranged upon check-in at the airport. Please note that smarTours is not involved in your seat assignment. It is between you and the airline!
LAND-ONLY TRAVELERS
International flights to/from the U.S. are not included. Land-only travelers are responsible for arranging the entry and exit flights, as well as their arrival and departure transfers. smarTours cannot be held responsible for any damage caused by air schedule changes and delays. Unused land services are non-refundable.
Main Tour: Land-only services start upon independent check in at river cruise boat in Vienna on Day 2 of the itinerary listed on our tour page. Land-Only services end after breakfast at Bucharest hotel on Day 13 of the itinerary listed on our tour page.
Main Tour + Extension: Land-only services start upon independent check in at river cruise boat in Vienna on Day 2 of the itinerary listed on our tour page. Land-Only services end after breakfast at Bucharest hotel on Day 15 of the itinerary listed on our tour page.
PASSPORT AND VISA INFORMATION
You must be in possession of a passport valid for at least 6 months after the date of travel. American citizens do not require a visa to enter the countries visited. Non U.S. citizens should check with the respective consulates of the countries visited on this tour as to the most current visa requirements. Please remember that it is your responsibility to obtain the necessary travel documents before the trip.
TICKETS AND FINAL DOCUMENTS
Your airline tickets along with final instruction and some additional travel tips will be sent to you 10 – 7 days before the scheduled departure of your tour. Please advise us in writing should your address change.
HEALTH REQUIREMENTS
Immunizations are NOT currently required; however, you may wish to consult your personal physician or local public health authorities as to their suggestions.
CLIMATE
You may expect day time temperatures averaging in the 60’s & 70’s in May and September, 70’s & 80’s in June, July and August, 50’s & 60’s in October.
CREDIT CARDS AND LOCAL CURRENCY
The currency used aboard the ship is the Euro! You will have an opportunity to exchange US dollars to Euros at the beginning of your trip. You may also purchase Euros in the USA before departure. The ship does not have currency exchange facilities. Traveler’s checks are not accepted aboard the ship nor are they widely accepted in the smaller towns and villages along the route. For incidental expenses onboard (excluding optional tours) you may also use Visa or Mastercard but a small service fee will apply. During visits to major cities and on shore excursions, you will find that many of the small souvenir vendors may accept US dollars or Euros as payment.
BAGGAGE
Each passenger may bring one piece of checked-in luggage (suitcase) max. 44 pounds and one carry-on piece. Carry on must not exceed 18”x10”x8”. We recommend that you do not over-pack and that you take a variety of separates with climate and comfort in mind.
Multimedia
See some of the southern Danube’s highlights with the video below!