Touch history in Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, as you sail along the exotic lower Danube. Celtic fortifications, medieval towns and grand cities, along with the natural beauty of pastoral landscapes and the Danube’s famed Iron Gates, showcase the best of eastern Europe. Nature lovers will relish the opportunity to bike through Belgrade’s sprawling Kalemegdan Park. Wine connoisseurs will have a chance to taste history from the centuries-old wine-growing hills dating back to the Romans in Croatia. Be treated to the flavors, sights, sounds and cultures of this diverse swath of the continent.
INCLUSIONS & HIGHLIGHTS
- 7 Nights luxury River Cruise Accommodations
- All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
- Tour of Pécs
- Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis
- Guided tour of Vukovar
- Osijek guided tour
- Croatian wine tasting and tour in Vukovar
- City tour of Belgrade
- Serbian brandy tastings paired with delicious local appetizers
- Visit Golubac Fortress
- Excursion to Baba Vida Fortress
- Visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa
- Visit Veliko Tarnovo
- Tour of “Little Paris of the East”
- Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
- All onboard dining in a variety of venues
- Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
- Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
- Bike tours and hikes
- Special interest tours
- Knowledgeable guides
- Women’s Travel Club Tour Host
ITINERARY
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Day 1 - Budapest
Welcome to beautiful Budapest, where your incredible journey begins!
Step aboard the ship for your Gems of Southeast Europe cruise, and get ready for an adventure through breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cities. From the charm of Budapest’s iconic architecture to the rich history and culture awaiting you along the way, this cruise promises unforgettable experiences at every turn. Prepare for a journey filled with excitement, discovery, and memories that will last a lifetime!
(Dinner)
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Day 2 - Budapest - Mohács
Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohacs. You’ll then visit Pécs, founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of the Old Town Pécs. You will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. Or for wine connoisseurs, you’ll want to go to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. You may also take an exhilarating guided bike tour around Mohács.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
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Day 3 - Vukovar
Enjoy your morning in Vukovar on a guided city tour where you may visit sites such as Eltz Manor House and Vukovar’s famous water tower. Alternatively, you may see Osijek on a guided tour. For those looking for a more active experience, you may explore Vukovar on an active bike tour.
In the afternoon, enjoy a Croatian wine tasting and tour in the Old Cellars, famous for their Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines. You can also choose to explore the Vucedol Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on prehistoric culture and one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
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Day 4 - Belgrade
Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world.
Alternatively, you can hike to Belgrade Fortress. In the afternoon, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling a few types of Serbian brandy paired with delicious local appetizers, including Šlivovitz, which was added in 2022 to UNESCO’s list of “Intangible Cultural Heritage.” For those wishing a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour. Or explore Novi Sad, a city rich in tradition and culture, on an afternoon walking tour.
Begin your tour at the Dunavski (Danube) Park; stroll through Stari Grad, the old town center; and explore Liberty Square, which is dominated by the Old Town Hall.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
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Day 5 - Iron Gates
Visit Golubac Fortress – a medieval fortified town on the south side of the Danube River – before cruising through the Iron Gates.
The Iron Gates is one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains, forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. The ancient King Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, is proudly carved into the mountainside and always captivates travelers.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
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Day 6 - Vidin
Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria.
Alternatively, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. You also have the choice to bike through Vidin and to the castle.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
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Day 7 - Rousse
Visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. You can opt instead to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterwards visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings.
Later in the day, travel through the Romanian countryside to the capital of Bucharest, known as the “Little Paris of the East.” Enjoy a panoramic tour of the historic city center and its elegant architecture.
(Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)
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Day 8 - Giurgiu
As you bid farewell to the charming town of Giurgiu, reflect on the incredible journey you’ve just experienced, filled with unforgettable sights, rich culture, and warm hospitality. From the majestic riverside landscapes to the vibrant cities and historic treasures you’ve explored, it’s been an adventure of a lifetime. As you prepare for your flight home, take with you the memories of Southeast Europe’s hidden gems, knowing that the experiences and friendships made will stay with you forever.
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Optional Land Packages
2 Nights Vienna Pre-Cruise:
Oct 17-19
Day 1 Vienna pre cruise – Arrive in Vienna and transfer to your hotel.
Day 2 Vienna – “Imperial Vienna” tour – The “City of Waltzes” offers a treasure trove of gems just waiting to be discovered on your city tour. See the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs before concluding in Vienna’s historic city center. (Breakfast)
Day 3 Budapest – Transfer from Vienna via motorcoach to Budapest where you’ll be taken on a city tour. Visit the UNESCO-listed Castle Hill district, Fisherman’s Bastion, St. Stephen’s Basilica and the Chain Bridge.
Board the ship for your Gems of Southeast Europe cruise.
(Breakfast and Dinner)
DETAILS & PRICING
Rates
Category E – Fixed Window
Double occupancy – $5,276 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy – $7,887 CAD per person your own cabin
Category C – French Window
Double Occupancy – $7,056 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy – $10,557 CAD per person your own cabin
Category BB – Balcony
Double Occupancy – $7,768 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy – $11,625 CAD per person your own cabin
Category AA – Large Balcony
Double Occupancy – $8,480 CAD per person sharing a cabin
Single Occupancy – $12,694 CAD per person your own cabin
If you would like the double occupancy rate but don’t have a roommate, we will match you with a suitable roommate. The single occupancy rate will give you your own room. Single occupancy may be limited. CAD = Canadian dollars. USD = United States of America dollars. Conversion to USD is approximated by current exchange rates and is subject to change. You will be charged in CAD and your bank may charge a slightly different rate or fee.
Payment & Cancellation Schedule
Payment of $500 is due at time of booking
Final payment due – July 21, 2026
*All payments are non-refundable Please see the full terms and conditions. Prices are subject to change based on availability.
Activity Level
Low-moderate activity
This is a fairly relaxed tour. Some walking while visiting areas and a few shorter walking tours. There is an opportunity for a more active tour with bicycle riding and hiking.
Group Size
Minimum – 10 members
Maximum – 20 members
If minimum number is not met the tour will continue without a tour host.
Exclusions
- International Airfare
- Visa and passport handling fees
- Meals not listed in itinerary
- Alcoholic Beverages other than beer and wine with lunch and dinner
- Gratuities
- Optional Activities
- Expenses of a Personal Nature
- Early check-in and late check-out of hotel
- Airport transfers
- Shipboard gratuities
Tour Host
Women’s Travel Club tours are hosted tours. Your tour host is in addition to local tour guides. Your Women’s Travel Club tour host is your tour concierge, and she is there to make sure every part of the tour runs smoothly. Our trained hosts are seasoned travelers who are with you every step of your tour so that you only have to worry about enjoying yourself and having fun.
The Women’s Travel Club Tour Host for this tour is TBA.
Roommate Matching Policy
Roommate matching is done as a courtesy, and while most matches result in wonderful friendships, success is not guaranteed. If during the tour you decide you would no longer like to share a room with your roommate, you will need to request (and pay for) a single room at all accommodations. This can be shared between the two people in the room if it is a mutual decision. If you are a very light sleeper or snore, you may want to consider getting your own single room.
Flight Information
The Women’s Travel Club recommends booking flexible or refundable air tickets when possible.
Arrive to Budapest, Hungary, at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport – BUD anytime on or before the first day of the tour.
Depart from Giurgiu, Romania, – Bucharest Băneasa – Aurel Vlaicu International Airport – BBU – at anytime on the last day of the tour.
If you would like assistance booking international flights for your tour, please use the form below. The Women’s Travel Club Flight Desk will work with you to arrange the best options.
Our flight management fee is CAD 100.00 + HST, per tour.
Flight Quote
Travel Insurance:
Out-of-country medical insurance is required. We strongly recommend that you obtain cancellation and interruption insurance to protect your investment.
Use this link to request an insurance quote.
ACCOMMODATIONS
AmaBella
The graceful AmaBella is a stunning river ship, unique in her own right. The intimate lounge is an inviting place to grab a cocktail and the thoughtfully redesigned reception area, adorned with charming pieces of contemporary art, provides a warm welcome after a day exploring ashore. Most staterooms feature our signature twin balconies so you can enjoy the views however you wish, as well as Entertainment-On-Demand and marble bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads. Elegant suites feature added enhancements, including a large sitting area and an expansive bathroom complete with a bathtub and separate shower. You’ll also find a massage and hair salon on board, a fitness room, specialty coffee station and a gift shop. An expansive Sun Deck with a heated pool offers special moments of pure relaxation. Mealtimes are a feast for the senses in the Main Restaurant and at The Chef’s Table where you will witness our chefs in action through our glass-walled kitchen. Our new “Café Bistro” is the perfect al fresco setting to play cards, mingle or enjoy a light lunch.
Cat E - Fixed Window
170 sq. ft.
Stateroom Features:
- In-room temperature control
- Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
- Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
- Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
- Flat-screen TV
- Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
- Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
- Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
- Desk and chair
Cat C - French Window
170 sq. ft.
Stateroom Features
- In-room temperature control
- Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
- Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
- Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
- Flat-screen TV
- Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
- Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
- Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
- Desk and chair
Cat BB - Balcony
210 sq. ft.
Stateroom Features
- In-room temperature control
- Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
- Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
- Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
- Flat-screen TV
- Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
- Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
- Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
- Desk and chair
Cat AA - Large Balcony
235 sq. ft.
Stateroom Features
- In-room temperature control
- Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
- Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
- Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
- Flat-screen TV
- Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
- Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
- Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
- Desk and chair
FAQ's
Through our own clients and networking clubs we have realized a general desire for women to travel but they don’t always have a companion. We developed the Women’s Travel Club for these women to have a fun and safe group to travel with. We offer a wide range of destinations, so that there is something for everyone.
We have women of all ages, with the average being 45 to 65 years. However, we do have regular travelers anywhere from 30 years to over 80 years of age.
We do not include international flights in the price of our tours. Not including the cost of international flights in the cost of the tour allows members the flexibility to get the flight schedule, price and class of service that best suits them. The Women's Travel Club flight desk will be happy to help arrange your international flights.
Yes, we always negotiate the best possible single supplement rate for our trips. Single spots fill quickly and may be limited so we suggest you book early for a single spot.
Yes, each of our booking forms has an area for you to request to be matched with a roommate. We get some general information that will help us match you with a great new friend. If a roommate is not initially available you may have to book in as a single and then change to double occupancy when a roommate is available.
Canadians and U.S citizens do not need a visa to travel to countries within the Schengen area. If you plan to travel in Europe, you need to know about the Schengen Borders Agreement, which allows you to move freely within a number of countries without border checks. Tourists can travel in the Schengen area for up to 90 days.
Budapest- The daily average is around 5°C that gradually drops to just 2°C at night. Croatia- The average daytime high is 10°C across the whole country and the average low temperature’s around 4°C. Serbia- The average temperatures are between 5.0°C and 13.0°C, with exceptional possible peaks as low as -6°C and high as 23°C. Bulgaria- The average temperature is a cool 10°C, rising to 13°C in the peak of the day and falling to just 6°C after dark. Romania- Daily high temperatures decrease by 7 °C, from 13 °C to 6 °C, Daily low temperatures decrease by 4 °C, from 4 °C to -0 °C
