Legends of the Balkans

from€1699
for 7 nights

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.

What’s Included:

  • Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
  • 7 nights onboard the Travelmarvel river cruiser based on two sharing
  • 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
  • Complimentary soft drinks, beer and local wine with all meals
  • Gratuities and local taxes included
  • Insider tours as per itinerary
  • Explore seven towns, villages and cities
  • Enjoy a traditional Hungarian horse show with Magyar cowboys in Puszta
  • Return flights from Dublin with 20kg check-in bag per person
  • All Airport taxes, charges, and transfers

Upgrade to Main deck cabin €650 per person

Upgrade to Upper deck cabin €850 per person

Single occupancy on request

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Traditional Horse Show
    In Puszta, enjoy a traditional horse show featuring Magyar cowboys and fine equestrian skills. 

Cruise Aboard Travelmarvel’s State-of-the-art River Ships

Travelmarvel’s latest fleet of European river ships shines bright. Named after the most luminous stars in European skies, every inch of these contemporary vessels has been custom-designed for your enjoyment.

Dedicated Staff
Travelmarvel’s Cruise and Tour Directors are among the best in Europe. Always available to provide personalised information and suggestions, they ensure you enjoy a holiday experience you simply could not have on your own.

Onboard Entertainment
With a variety of performers to suit different tastes, live onboard entertainment on your ship ensures there is never a dull moment. Local acts will elevate your evenings so you can relax with a drink and enjoy some live music. You can also expect a range of activities such as trivia and informative lectures.

Stylish Social Spaces
Multiple social areas provide a suitable retreat between touring. Soak up some sun on the Sun Deck, enjoy a dip in the whirlpool, or grab a drink at the Sky Deck Bar. The True North Lounge provides another perfect retreat.

Easier Access
With a two-and-a-half deck design, enjoy access to magnificent views on the top deck throughout your cruise. Plus, an internal all-weather staircase connects the Lounge to the Sun Deck.

Staying Active On Board
An onboard fitness room, whirlpool and walking track are available for those wanting to maintain their fitness. Bicycles are also available on board and are free to use for onshore excursions.

Onboard Dining

McGeary’s Bar
Tuck into good old-fashioned pub fare, grab a beer or two and delight in the friendly atmosphere at McGeary’s Bar.

True North Bar
Enjoy relaxed dining in the True North Lounge, with the adjoining Alfresco Lounge opening onto a veranda via bi-fold windows, connecting you to the ever-changing vistas outside.

Constellations Restaurant
At the Constellations Restaurant, enjoy an indulgent regional lunch on board, while dinner unfolds as a four-course affair showcasing local specialities.

Prices
Dates Cabin Type Price
09 Jun 2026 Lower Deck €3399€1699 Book Now
09 Jun 2026 Middle Deck €4698€2349 Book Now
09 Jun 2026 Upper Deck €4998€2499 Book Now
21 Jul 2026 Lower Deck €2695 Book Now
21 Jul 2026 Middle Deck €3345 On Request
21 Jul 2026 Upper Deck €3495 Book Now
18 Aug 2026 Lower Deck €2695 Book Now
18 Aug 2026 Middle Deck €3345 Sold Out
18 Aug 2026 Upper Deck €3495 Sold Out
Agent
Celine K
Celine K
Booking Remarks
Optional insurance (conditions apply)
A non-refundable, non-transferable booking deposit of 15% is required. Full payment if departure within 16 weeks.
Holidays & offers are subject to availability at the time of booking
These prices are guidelines only and are subject to change and availability. Pricing will be confirmed at time of booking.
Ref EUTCGB08F
Good to Know
Note ships may differ on various dates.
Itinerary maybe in reverse depending on departure date.
Itinerary
Day 1

Bucharest, Romania

Fly from Dublin 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.

Stay:
Seven Nights, aboard your Travelmarvel river ship

Daily:
· Dinner

Day 2

Ruse, Bulgaria

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria

Arbanasi, Bulgaria

Today, uncover the fortified walls and cobblestone lanes of Veliko Târnovo, once the capital of the Second Bulgarian Empire and a city steeped in medieval history. Join a local expert for a guided tour, exploring its fascinating past. At the heart of the city, visit the restored Tsarevets Fortress, the citadel of the Empire. Afterward, head to the hilltop village of Arbanasi, known for its rich history and well-preserved architecture. Enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant before returning to your ship.

Daily:
· Breakfast
· Lunch
· Dinner

Day 3

Vidin, Bulgaria

Belogradchik, Bulgaria

Explore the Baba Vida Fortress, a medieval castle dating back to the 10th century. Marvel at its formidable walls and towers, immersing yourself in its rich history. Afterward, journey to Belogradchik, where you’ll visit the ancient Belogradchik Fortress, perched on the northern slopes of the Balkan Mountains. While in the area, take time to admire the town’s stunning natural rock formations, which have earned Belogradchik a reputation for its unique and striking landscape.

Daily:
· Breakfast
· Lunch
· Dinner

Day 4

Scenic Cruising

The day is yours to spend on board. Take it easy and relax, taking in postcard-perfect views from the Sun Deck.

Daily:
· Breakfast
· Lunch
· Dinner

Day 5

Novi Sad, Serbia

Step out and explore Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, often regarded as the cultural capital of the country. Enjoy a guided tour through its charming streets and vibrant cultural hubs. After your tour, you’ll have free time to relax and soak in the atmosphere. For those interested in further exploration, consider visiting the Petrovaradin Fortress, an imposing fortress complex that overlooks the Danube River. While here, don’t miss the chance to explore its intriguing catacombs, which offer a glimpse into the fortress’s storied past.

Daily:
· Breakfast
· Lunch
· Dinner

Day 6

Kalocsa, Hungary

Kalocsa, Puszta
Dock in Kalocsa, a charming Hungarian town rich in history, located just a short distance from the mighty Danube. From here, head to  Puszta for your Insider Experience.

Insider Experience – Traditional Horse Show

In  Puszta, enjoy a traditional horse show featuring Magyar cowboys and fine equestrian skills. You may choose to take an optional carriage ride, view the stables, and be greeted by horsemen.

Daily:
· Breakfast
· Lunch
· Dinner

Day 7

Budapest, Hungary

Enjoy the day at leisure to explore Budapest. You may wish to join an optional tour to discover Budapest’s Great Market Hall, a must-visit attraction. Housed in a beautiful historic building dating back to the 19th century, the market is a paradise for food lovers and shoppers, where you can immerse yourself in Hungarian cuisine and local culture. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional tour to the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum, a hospital created in the caverns beneath Buda Castle in the 1940s during World War II, which later served as a nuclear bunker during the Cold War. This evening, delight in a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Enhance your Journey – Great Market Hall Tour

Embark on a culinary tour. Wander through this large market to discover a variety of Hungarian sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Enhance your Journey – Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum

Tour this museum, once a World War II hospital, located in the caves beneath Buda Castle.

Daily:
· Breakfast
· Lunch
· Dinner

Day 8

Budapest, Hungary

Disembark your ship this morning and be transferred to the airport for your return flight to the Dublin.

Daily:
· Breakfast

View full itinerary