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Cruise · APT · 7 nights

Balkan Gems

  • Explore the striking Golubac Fortress
  • Cruise through the awe-inspiring Iron Gates
  • Enjoy a delicious Serbian meze tasting
From
$6,145 pp twin share
$10,745 pp solo share
7 nights
Cruise Snapshot
7 Nights

Uncover the treasures of Eastern Europe on a luxurious seven-night cruise along the Danube River

  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of Budapest
  • Delve into Vukovar's wartime past
  • Discover Serbian culture in Belgrade

Trip Details

Departs
15 March 2028
Returns
14 October 2028
Embarks
Operator
APT

Uncover the treasures of Eastern Europe on a luxurious seven-night cruise along the Danube River. Immerse yourself in the beauty of Budapest, delve into Vukovar’s wartime past, and discover Serbian culture in Belgrade. Explore the striking Golubac Fortress and cruise through the Iron Gates before concluding your tour in Bucharest.

When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs
15 March 2028
Returns 14 October 2028
Returns
14 October 2028
Duration
7 nights
From pp twin share
$6,145 pp
From pp solo cabin
$10,745 pp
  • 15 Mar 2028 - 22 Mar 2028
    from $6,145 pp twin share / $10,745 pp solo *
  • 29 Mar 2028 - 05 Apr 2028
    from $6,445 pp twin share / $11,295 pp solo *
  • 17 Jun 2028 - 24 Jun 2028
    from $7,945 pp twin share / $13,895 pp solo *
  • 29 Jul 2028 - 05 Aug 2028
    from $7,445 pp twin share / $13,045 pp solo *
  • 09 Sep 2028 - 16 Sep 2028
    from $7,945 pp twin share / $13,895 pp solo *
  • 07 Oct 2028 - 14 Oct 2028
    from $7,445 pp twin share / $13,045 pp solo *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

  1. 1

    Arrive Budapest, Embark Ship

    Welcome to Budapest. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to the luxurious APT Ostara. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship.

  2. 2

    Budapest

    Decide how to explore Budapest with a choice of sightseeing activities.

    Freedom of Choice – City Tour

    Enjoy a morning city tour of Budapest, taking in historic monuments such as Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Basilica.

    Freedom of Choice – Culinary Tour

    Eat your way through Budapest as you embark on a tour of the Great Market Hall. Wander through this large indoor market and discover a variety of sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

    Freedom of Choice – Funicular Ride

    Board a funicular to Castle Hill for superb views, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion.

    Gala Welcome Dinner

    Enjoy a multi-course meal with an expertly crafted menu.

  3. 3

    Mohács

    Decide how to spend today with a range of sightseeing activities on offer.

    Freedom of Choice – Pécs Sightseeing Tour

    Embark on a guided walking discovery of this ancient city, which is renowned for its architectural wonders, including the Early Christian Mausoleum and Szent István Square.

    Freedom of Choice – Villány Wine Tasting

    Travel to Villány, a renowned Hungarian wine region known for its red and rose varieties. Here, you will pay a visit to a local winery, where you will enjoy a tour and tasting.

    Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride

    Perhaps get active on a guided bike ride along the Danube to an ancient mill.

  4. 4

    Vukovar

    Bearing battle scars from the Croatian War of Independence, Vukovar has risen strong and has a rich history. On an enlightening city tour, hear about the city's wartime past and visit the Memorial Centre of Homeland War Vukovar.

  5. 5

    Belgrade

    In Serbia’s capital, choose your activity.

    Freedom of Choice – Guided Exploration of Belgrade

    Uncover the rich history of Belgrade on this guided discovery. You will see iconic wonders, including the Belgrade Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of Saint Sava.

    Freedom of Choice – Kayak Tour

    Discover Belgrade from a different perspective on this sightseeing adventure. Begin at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, where you will paddle to Great War Island and Lido Beach.

    Freedom of Choice – Belgrade Culinary Tour

    Visit a bustling food market, where you’ll learn about the secrets of Serbian cuisine and be introduced to a range of local produce, meats and cheeses. Then, delight in a tasting of various types of Serbian brandy, known as rakija, complemented by traditional gingerbread biscuits, known as medenjaci.

  6. 6

    Golubac, Iron Gates Cruising

    This morning, your ship will dock at the Golubac Fortress, where you'll disembark for a Signature Experience. Later, cruise through the Iron Gates and experience one of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders you will encounter on your journey.

    Signature Experience – Golubac Walking Tour

    Set out on a fascinating walking tour of Golubac, a charming village in eastern Serbia. Explore the striking Golubac Fortress, which stands at the entrance to the Iron Gates of the Danube. Built in the 14th century, the fortress’ strategic position made it an integral military border stronghold. Wander along the walls and towers of this remarkable fortification as you hear about its captivating history from your expert guide. From the fortress, take a scenic walk along the riverbanks of the Danube and soak up the breathtaking views. Then, visit a local riverside tavern, where you’ll delight in a delicious Serbian meze tasting, featuring an array of small dishes such as cheeses, cured meats and other local specialties.

  7. 7

    At Sea

    Spend the day relaxing on board and enjoying the amenities of your luxurious ship. Perhaps indulge in a treatment at the onboard spa or sip a delicious cocktail on the Daystar Deck as you admire the serene landscapes unfolding before you.

  8. 8

    Giurgiu, Disembark Ship, Depart Bucharest

    Your journey comes to an end today with a transfer to the airport.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

  • Golubac Walking Tour.
  • Iron Gates Cruising.
  • Day 1 highlights Arrive Budapest, Embark Ship:

    Welcome to Budapest. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to the luxurious APT Ostara. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship.

    .
Where you’ll stay

Accommodation

  • Seven Nights, APT Ostara
From the operator

Common questions about this voyage

How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 8 days and 7 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 15 Mar 2028 and 14 Oct 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
Can I travel solo?
Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
Ready to lock in?

Book this cruise

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

Enquire about this cruise
From (twin) $6,145 pp
From (solo) $10,745 pp
Enquire