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This 12-day vacation begins with two nights in Budapest, where a guided tour makes the Hungarian capital come alive. Visit a typical puszta before boarding your elegant vessel for a 7-night cruise on the Lower Danube to the Black Sea. First stop is Kalocsa in the heart of the paprika-growing area, then cruise along the border of Croatia into Serbia, past the fortress of Petrovaradin at Novi Sad and into Belgrade. A city tour shows you the highlights of this remarkable capital, and there’s an opportunity to taste the delicious local fare. Continue down the Danube through the dramatic Iron Gates Gorge. Stop in Svistov, Bulgaria, where a full-day excursion takes you to the ancient capital of Veliko Târnovo and nearby Arbanassi. Rejoin your ship in Rousse, Bulgaria’s largest inland port, and sail to Constanta, known as the “Pearl of the Black Sea Riviera.” A visit to the Natural History and Archaeological Museum is a highlight. Return to Oltenita, where a short ride takes you to Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital, for an overnight and included city sightseeing.
Day 1 (Thu.) Depart US
Days 2-3 Budapest, Hungary
(Fri. & Sat.) Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is the liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis of Eastern Europe. Seven bridges, including the famousChain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN'S BASTION and the Matthias Church are sights not to be missed. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (BB)
Day 4 Budapest (Embarkation)
(Sun.) Not far from the capital and an integral part of Hungarian rural life is the Puszta , or Great Plain, the vast grasslands where the country’s beloved fiery horses are reared. After a visit and a demonstration of traditional Hungarian equestrian prowess performed by the csikós (wranglers in their picturesque costumes), return to Budapest for embarkation. The crew of your vessel waits to welcome you aboard! (BB,L,D)
Day 5 Kalocsa
(Mon.) Kalocsa was founded by St. Stephen in 1009 as an archbishopric and has a most turbulent history. The Archbishop’s Palace and the Kalocsa Cathedral dominate this quiet town, now best known for paprika and folklore art. (FB,L,D)
Day 6 Novi Sad, Serbia
(Tue.) Overlooking the city of Novi Sad, with a spectacular view of the Danube and surroundings, is Marshal Vauban’s unconquerable Petrovaradin Fortress. Dramatic events in the recent past have shaped both the present and the future of this region, resplendent with natural beauty and a proud history of struggle, victory, and defeat. (FB,L,D)
Day 7 Belgrade
(Wed.) The capital of Serbia is situated at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. Its main sights include the city’s principal landmark, KALEMEGDAN FORTRESS; the world’s largest Orthodox Church of St. Sava; and Marshal Tito’s tomb and monument. The city center has a lively pedestrian area and charming outdoor cafés. (FB,L,D)
Day 8 Iron Gates
(Thu.) The Serbian fortresses of Smederevo and Golubac and the Trajan Table marking the Roman conquest of Dacia are impressive sights on the right bank of the Danube. The most spectacular scenery must surely be the dramatic gorge of the Iron Gates, a narrow and formerly very dangerous passage dividing Europe’s Alps in the northwest from the Carpathians in the southeast and forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. (FB,L,D)
Day 9 Svistov, Bulgaria–Veliko Târnovo–Arbanassi–Rousse
(Fri.) A comfortable ride away from the river port of Svistov is the ancient Bulgarian capital of Veliko Târnovo. Situated on three hills surrounding the Yantra River, the city was a natural fortress with ancient stone houses clinging to the steep slopes. The oldest part is Tsarevits Hill, home of the Royal Fortress, palaces, and the PATRIARCH’S CHURCH. The historic village of Arbanassi is best known for its ETHNOGRAPHICAL MUSEUM and the outstanding collection of frescoes in the CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY. Rousse today is Bulgaria’s largest inland port. (FB,L,D)
Day 10 Black Sea Canal, Romania–Constanta
(Sat.) The 40-mile-long Black Sea Canal is the pride and joy of communist achievement and was completed in 1984. Constanta, situated on the coast of the Black Sea, is Romania’s most important commercial center and a popular resort. Interesting sights are the NATURAL HISTORY AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM and the PETER AND PAUL ORTHODOX CHURCH. (FB,L,D)
Day 11 Oltenita (Disembarkation)–Bucharest
(Sun.) Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital, is only a short drive from Oltenita. Its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe have gained it the name “Paris of the East.” Much recent history has taken place in the city. The impressive Parliament Building is the second largest building in the world, after the Pentagon. The Royal Palace Square was the scene of riots in 1989, which finally led to the collapse of the communist dictatorship. The former Royal Palace now houses the NATIONAL ART MUSEUM. (FB)
Day 12 Bucharest
The minute you step on board the Avalon Artistry®, you know she's different. The gleaming two-story lobby, lit by a central glass skylight, is a preview of the light, airy feel and the spectacular views you'll enjoy on this modern, spacious vessel. And the friendliness and unsurpassed personal service of the English-speaking staff on board and on shore always make you feel welcome.
All rooms are designed by the famous architect Hans Sabert. There are two junior suites (258 square feet) and the vessel boasts some of the largest staterooms (at 172 square feet) of any river cruiser; they are all outside staterooms. Some have picture windows, while 70% have a unique French balcony from which to enjoy the passing scenery. The Avalon Artistry accommodates 178 passengers in 87 staterooms and two junior suites.
The dining room, lounge and other recreation areas are spacious and airy with both the dining room and lounge offering glass from floor to ceiling so passengers can enjoy panoramic views. Unique to the Avalon Artistry is the glazed lobby that is open through to the Sky Deck with a central glass cupola sparkling welcome to passengers. The exercise room is outfitted with fitness equipment and a whirlpool that can accommodate six people. Massages are also offered.
Pricing Including: Cruise, all meals on board, wine with diner and shore excursions.
| Artistry |
4/30/2009 |
5/1/2009 |
5/11/2009 |
$2,999.00 |
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| Tranquility |
5/28/2009 |
5/29/2009 |
6/8/2009 |
$2,999.00 |
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| Tranquility |
9/17/2009 |
9/18/2009 |
9/28/2009 |
$2,999.00 |
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Call 800-640-4899 for early booking discounts
Also available:
BLUE DANUBE TO THE BLACK SEA (WVO)14 days - Vienna to Bucharest
Starting at: $3,709.00*
GRAND BLACK SEA CRUISE (WNO) 20 days - Prague to Bucharest
Starting at: $5,269.00*
NORTH SEA-BLACK SEA CRUISE (WAO) 24 days - Amsterdam to Bucharest
Starting at: $6,729.00*
Call 800-640-4899 for details
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