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Unlock the novel tune of an immersive boutique cruise across the Danube River enjoying the dynamic scenery across Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. Experience your cruise your way by walking, biking or at a leisure pace floating through the best of these countries on an unforgettable adventure on this enthralling 9 days active and discovery small river cruise voyage.
Bring a start to your panoramic adventure in Zagreb, Croatia's energetic capital city not short of praiseworthy highlights to explore at your convenience. Come across bountiful museums, Austro-Hungarian architecture, and an explosion of outdoor activities as you stroll through the thriving city. Go further afield in a guided tour to discover the Roman rich history before travelling to Osijek to embark on your Avalon suite ship, the breathtaking Avalon Passion and sail ...
Bring a start to your panoramic adventure in Zagreb, Croatia's energetic capital city not short of praiseworthy highlights to explore at your convenience. Come across bountiful museums, Austro-Hungarian architecture, and an explosion of outdoor activities as you stroll through the thriving city. Go further afield in a guided tour to discover the Roman rich history before travelling to Osijek to embark on your Avalon suite ship, the breathtaking Avalon Passion and sail for stunning Belgrade. Bike tour the rewarding history of Serbia, discover Serbian culture through its food or see where the Danube and Sava River converge and many fascinating destinations. Marvel at the astounding Fortress of Golubac, hike through the gorgeous Djerdap National Park or tour Donji Milanovac and sail through the enthralling and narrow Iron Gates Gorge. Cruise to Vidin in luxury and unearth the hidden treasures in your own style. Be amazed by the bewildering ancient architecture in Veliko Târnovo and Arbanassi or join a guided hike to the impressive Ivanovo Rock Church. Immerse in the natural history and beauty of Romania by foot or by bike. Disembark your suite ship and travel to fully dive into the pleasures of the esteemed “Paris of the East” Bucharest; a fitting end to your amazing adventure.
In between adventures, relax onboard the Avalon Fleet delivering the largest staterooms with panoramic suites complete with an open-air balcony of floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall views. The largest standard window in river cruising more than 30% larger than others. With panoramic suites, world-class amenities and refreshing off-shore excursions, experience your slice of heaven aboard Avalon Waterways.
Active, Discovery or Classic
With multiple activity options from Active, Discovery, or Classic to choose from each day, the cruise itinerary would accommodate varied interests and fitness levels, giving you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region tailored to you. You can choose to go slow pace taking in the sounds and flavours of each city or as active to fulfil natural curiosity and wonder as spirited travellers. For more information, please refer to the daily itinerary and ‘How To Choose Your Excursion Type’.
This luxury package includes 8 nights’ accommodation in city hotels and onboard the Avalon waterways on a twin-share basis. Meals and activities as stated in the itinerary.
Discover a wonderful way to unwind, observe the world drift by at a leisurely pace, and travel right into the very heart of famous Balkan cities and charming towns in an award-winning suite ship to complete a lifetime of luxury cruise experience.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points
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Welcome to Croatia, your first stop before boarding the Avalon suite ship. With high energy and enthusiasm kick-start your adventure in Zagreb to discover the beguiling city at your pleasure.
In its laid-back rhythm and leafy charm, take a sightseeing stroll from Glavni Kolodvor, a central train station to the main square that puts you within walking distance of the major attractions in the city. From there, seek the colourful Tkalciceva Street, filled with sidewalk cafes and restaurants that wrap around the mediaeval Gornji grad (Upper Town). Among other stunning attractions, explore the city's top photo op, Zagreb Cathedral famous for its two 108 m (354 ft) ornately decorated spires, be sure to visit the cathedral treasury with its numerous fine works of sacred art, and symbolic objects.
As trams rumble by, experience the aptly named ‘Green Horseshoe’ of parks and sites that constitute the highlights of Donji Grad, (Lower Town). Enjoy drama performance, opera, or ballet at the Croatian National Theatre, take in the nearby Zagreb Botanical Garden, an arboretum with an ornament bridge, two ponds, and 10,000 different plant species dotting the peaceful oasis. The last stop takes you through Zagreb's quirky and intriguing museums, drop by at Maksimir Park surrounded by beautiful green vegetation making for a pleasant scenery to escape and relax.
Afterward, make your way back to the delightful hotel provided for your comfort. Feel at home and relax in the luxury of your room as you reminisce about today's invigorating experience.
Be filled with a delectable breakfast enough to energise you before setting out for the day.
In the classic type of activity provided, get acquainted with traditional Roman History giving you an insight into the unique heritage and culture of the empire.
Classic: get in the mood to explore, focusing on Zagreb, take a guided tour of this excellent area to discover its rich history dating from the Roman times to the present day.
In the afternoon, take a break to enjoy a satisfying lunch prepared from local ingredients before you journey to Osijek, where you’ll board your Avalon suite ship and your Balkan cruise adventure begins. Experience all round luxury from the elegant structures that made up the ship, in-built swimming pool excellent for unwinding, see-through doors and windows allowing for adorable views of the sunset at every turn, soul soaring delicacies to ultimate services aimed for your comfort.
Settle in and explore your stateroom as you sail through the magnificent Black Sea. Savour a fresh onboard dinner, a mouth-watering treat perfect to bring an end to your eventful day.
Relax and embark on an overnight cruise to Belgrade.
Wake up to the bright view of sunrise penetrating through the floor-to-ceiling glass windows of your cruise ship welcoming you to a new day. Enjoy a splendid breakfast before joining your adventure host to discover Fortresses and Folklore in your today's special activities categorised into three types.
Active: Get to experience the sublimity of Serbia in a guided bike tour designed around Belgrade's history from World War II to the present.
Classic: Expect to be in awe of the city's fascinating architecture including Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world, come across the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers as you partake in a guided sightseeing tour. Pass time in Belgrade taking pleasure in Knez Mihailova Street, the city's main pedestrian boulevard home to a variety of bustling cafes, stores, and cultural attractions.
Discovery:Option 1: Eat your way through Serbian culture as you enjoy a peaceful stroll across the town's lovely atmosphere while sampling different specialties of the region, an insight into its history and culture will be a great addition to your cruise
Option 2: Learn about the fascinating history, popular tourist attractions, and diverse cultures of the Balkan states with an onboard lecture before dinner.
Optional Tour (additional cost): Consider going on an optional excursion this evening to the Skadarlija Quarter, a beautiful and quiet space perfect to savour a true Bohemian Dinner.
Rest in the comfort of your luxurious cruise ship to continue on an overnight cruise to Golubac.
Begin the day by choosing from the well-tailored activity types provided.
Active: Experience a picturesque hike through Djerdap National Park, and make a stop en route to relish some regional cuisine before heading back to your Avalon cruise ship.
Discovery: In the presence of a professional guide, discover Lepenski Vir- a significant Mesolithic archaeological site chronicling ancient cultures, settlements, and art. Admire the historical discoveries and artefacts, as well as the distinctive views of the Danube Gorge that the location offers.
Classic: Option 1: Make a stop at the Fortress of Golubac, one of the best-preserved mediaeval fortresses in Europe. Learn about its tumultuous history as a border control defence in the Middle Ages, and a source of conflict between Serbia, the Habsburg Monarchy, and the Ottoman Empire. Embrace a quick cruise to Donji Milanovac, an iconic site home to Prehistoric Stones and Iron Gates Gorge.
Option 2: Take part in a tour of Donji Milanovac with a guide and discover the fundamentals of the Cyrillic Serbian alphabet inside a neighbourhood elementary school. Learn about the history of this small Serbian village while getting to know the residents and discovering the craft of crocheting.
Come afternoon, sail across the spectacular and narrow Iron Gates Gorge, a naturally formed boundary between Serbia and Romania. Unwind and marvel on your Avalon suite ship while you enjoy an overnight cruise to Vidin.
Today, seek the Rocks, artistic Ruins, and Beautiful architecture of Bulgaria in style choosing from the three activities available.
Active: Take a unique approach to discover Vidin, a fascinating mix of architectural dynamics. Cycle around the charming streets of this lovely Bulgarian town in the company of your expert local guide as you discover its history.
Discovery: Gain deep knowledge about Bulgarian wine production techniques and sample a variety of labels made by a renowned local winery. Complete this experience savouring regional cuisine accompanied by orchestral music.
Classic: Experience sightseeing guided tour of Vidin before moving on to the brilliant Belogradchik (about an hour south) famous for its unique rocks. Immerse the spectacular vistas of rock formations carved by 200 million years of natural forces on the western slopes of the Balkan Mountains.
Sail to Rousse on an overnight cruise.
Following a mouth-watering breakfast, set out to behold the beautiful sight of Cliff Houses and Revival Architecture wrapping around Rousse, veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi.
Active: Join your expert local guide on this spectacular hike to Ivanovo Rock Church. You will no doubt be astonished by the remarkable and distinctive architecture of the monolithic cathedrals, chapels, and monasteries built inside the mountains.
Discovery: Experience a full-day guided tour to Veliko Tarnovo, the old capital of Bulgaria, to see its historic stone homes perched precariously on the cliffs above the Yantra River. Discover one of Bulgaria's oldest towns, dating to around 4300 BC, as well as the Bulgarian Revival architecture in the 15th-century town of Arbanassi.
Classic: Wallow in the magnificence of Holy Trinity Church on a guided sightseeing tour of Bulgaria's greatest inland port, a must-see attraction in the southern Danube River cruise.
Set voyage on an overnight cruise to Constanta.
Choose and explore Romania with one of the available options that best matches your style.
Active: Take a break from the past histories in Constanta, and enjoy a scenic two-wheel ride through the beautiful Romanian landscapes to explore a local winery.
Discovery: Choose an expedition to a local winery to learn about traditional Romanian wines, find a balance under the shade, have some ice cream or lunch, and do some leisure watch.
Classic: Reconnect with your guide to tour Constanta, the most important commercial centre in Romania, situated on the Black Sea. Visit the Natural History and Archeological Museum to discover the fascinating history of early Romanian cultures.
Continue on a peaceful cruise to Cernavoda.
Get off the ship this morning to explore the stunning landmarks of busy "Paris of the East", Bucharest.
Active: In a guided tour, visit the vast Vacaresti Nature Park often called Urban Delta. A wetland home to over 150 different kinds of birds and small mammals. Immerse in the beautiful scenery of this peaceful retreat to know more about the unique green space, which is only 4 kilometres from Bucharest, the capital of Romania.
Discovery: Be treated to the joie de vivre of Romanian cuisine - a tasty hodge-podge of Balkan, Ottoman, French, and Russian influences.
Classic: Get more astonished by the spectacular beauty of this area, head on a guided tour to Bucharest, the capital of Romania, to see its tree-lined boulevards and the Arc de Triomphe that honours Romanian soldiers from World War I. Visit Royal Palace Square-the scene of the city’s 1989 riots to overthrow the communist dictator Nicolae Ceausescu.
Call it a day and head to Brasov for the night.
After a hearty breakfast aboard the delightful intimate cruise ship, bid farewell to your host and newly made friends as your Balkan Adventure comes to an end.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
The displayed price is a guide for per person, based on Twin occupancy for available Deluxe Staterooms or Panorama Suites or Royal Suites. Please contact us for available cabins and prices.
- The departure point is Zagreb, Croatia
- The finish point is Bucharest, Romania
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Zagreb. The closest major airport is Zagreb Airport which is 10 km from the center of Zagreb.
Transylvania is one of the coldest regions in Romania with an average daily high temperature of only 16 degrees centigrade. The climate widely corresponds to Central European weather conditions. It is cold, wet and a few beautiful summer months are also happening during a year. Due to the warmer temperatures the best time for traveling is from May to September. The climate of Romania is temperate continental transitioning into an oceanic climate on the eastern coast.
The northern and central parts of the Balkans have a central European climate, characterized by cold winters, warm summers, and well-distributed rainfall. The southern and coastal areas, however, have a Mediterranean type of climate, with hot, dry summers and mild, relatively rainy winters
The sister ships Avalon Passion, Avalon Impression and Avalon Illumination features two full decks of Panorama Suites℠ with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air℠ Balcony. Cruise along the legendary Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers, enjoying fresh breezes and enchanting scenery from the comfort of your suite. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites℠ are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning facing the splendid passing scenery. Onboard amenities include an alternative dining option in the Panorama Bistro, an expanded fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the open-air bistro.
Length: 135 metres
Crew: 47
Deluxe Stateroom: 16
Panorama Suites: 65
Royal Suites: 2
Deluxe Stateroom: Category E & D. 172 square feet. Unique features are two bay windows.
Panorama Suite: Category A, B & P. 200 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Royal Suite: Category S. 300 square feet. Unique features are wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard, wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony and Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area.
Your cruise features excursion and onboard activity options. Select what interests you most so you can experience your cruise your way with 3 different activity types:
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.