Gems of Southeast Europe (Smithsonian Journeys)

7 Nights • AmaWaterways

From £4,556pp | Departs from Budapest

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Gems of Southeast Europe (Smithsonian Journeys)

Offer Highlights

Cruise Line
AmaWaterways
Departure Port
Budapest
Flights
Included
Cruise Type
River Cruise
Cruise Ship
AmaBella
Cruise Rating
luxury
Cruise Theme
History & Culture
Regions
Europe, Western Europe, Danube
Countries
Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania
Duration
8 days / 7 nights

Embark on our Cruising Portugal’s Enticing Douro River Valley itinerary. Set sail from the UNESCO-designated city of Porto to discover the spectacular landscapes of Portugal’s Douro River Valley, where wines have been produced for some 2,000 years. Visit picturesque villages and palaces; spend a day in beautiful Salamanca, Spain; and enjoy tastings at historic wine estates. As you make your way back toward Porto, stop to explore the picturesque village of Pinhão and the pilgrimage site of Lamego. Then linger in Porto to experience its exciting blend of history and modernity, admiring iconic landmarks, contemporary architecture and enriching museums. Plus, enjoy specially curated tours to the De Souza Cardo Museum and the Palacio de Monterey, exclusively available on this itinerary. You will also have the unique opportunity to engage with and learn from two Smithsonian Journeys Experts throughout your journey whose specialized expertise will further immerse you in the history, art or culture of the region.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Mohács. Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohács and continue to historic Pécs. Venture underground to its fourth-century necropolis, a World Heritage site, and admire the exquisite interior of St. Peter’s Basilica. Visit a porcelain factory in the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, then stroll to the mosque on the main square. Alternatively, head to the 2,000-year-old Szekszárd wine region to sample its renowned reds or explore Mohács on a guided bike tour. (Meals: B,L,D)

Vukovar or Osijek, Croatia. Arrive in Croatia and visit Vukovar on a city tour or a bike ride, discovering its baroque center that still bears scars from the war for independence in the 1990s. Cap off your tour with a private concert performed by local musicians at the Eltz Manor House. Alternatively explore Tvrda Fortress and the ethnographic museum in nearby Osijek. This afternoon, taste Croatian wines at Vukovar’s Old Cellars, or delve into the region’s human history at the Vucedol Museum. (Meals: B,L,D)

Belgrade, Serbia. Immerse yourself in vibrant Belgrade during a visit to the Nikola Tesla Museum, Kalemegdan Fortress, and the sparkling Church of Saint Sava. Alternatively, go for a bike ride or hike to the fortress. Tour the National Museum of Serbia and enjoy a tasting of traditional plum brandy, or slivovitz, and local appetizers. Or journey to Novi Sad for a walking tour of its picturesque Old Town. (Meals: B,L,D)

Iron Gates. Follow the Danube as it winds into the mountains, forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. Stop to visit Serbia’s Golubac Fortress, and sail through magnificent gorges known as the Iron Gates. Keep an eye out for the face of King Decebalus, carved into the mountains on the Romanian side. (Meals: B,L,D)

Vidin, Bulgaria. In Vidin, a town with Celtic roots, explore the medieval Baba Vida Fortress on a guided tour or go for a bike ride to the castle. Alternatively, visit a local home for lesson in making traditional Bulgarian yogurt and a popular pastry called banitsa. (Meals: B,L,D)

Veliko Tarnovo or Rousse/Bucharest, Romania. Discover Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, and enjoy a Bulgarian wine tasting. Or stroll through the charming central pedestrian area before visiting the Rousse State Opera House for an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience and short performance. Alternatively, journey through the Romanian countryside to the capital of Bucharest for a tour of the elegant historic center. (Meals: B,L,D)

Giurgiu, Romania. Disembark in Giurgiu and transfer to the airport for your flight home. (Meals: B)

AmaBella

AmaBella was newly re-imagined in 2021, blending elegant design with a welcoming, intimate atmosphere. Some staterooms feature a rare combination of two balconies — a step-out balcony where you can sit outside and a French balcony, a floor-to-ceiling glass door that slides open to let in fresh air and views. Guests can choose from three dining venues, including the Main Restaurant, The Chef’s Table, and the casual Café Bistro, each with its own style. A heated Sun Deck pool, cozy lounges, a fitness room, and a massage and hair salon round out the ship’s amenities, while itineraries along the Rhine and Danube connect you with some of Europe’s most iconic scenery.

With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.

Unique Features

Exquisite Dining On Board

Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local ingredients and presented with elegance, turning each meal into a celebration of flavor, artistry, and place.