Many of you have been to Budapest on your river cruises, and a common comment is the collision of cultures you experience when visiting there. A Soviet-era train station straight out of the movies, is connected to a brand new shopping mall with all the same designer stores we see in the United States.
It’s worth remembering that only a generation ago Hungary, and all those countries between there are the Black Sea were behind the iron curtain. Thirty (ish) years later, all these countries are catching up with their own history.
And THAT is why it’s worth sailing the Lower Danube.
The Lower Danube refers to that area from Hungary to where the river drains into the Black Sea in Romania. If you catch a river boat in Budapest, and ride it to the Black Sea, you get to see parts of Hungary few people see, as well as Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.
A river cruise is a great way to see these countries, because between the language barriers and the infrastructure, it’s not as easy to travel here as in Western Europe. Cruises through this region offers a bit of something for everyone:
- Roman ruins and archeological sites – Europe’s first settlement dating back to the stone age is here.
- Farm to table cuisine.
- Visits to vineyards and wineries – we were in Croatia earlier this year, and were blown away by the wineries there. Some of these wineries have been producing since the Roman era.
- Scenic Cruising – most notably the Iron Gate (the 83 mile long narrow gorge with enormous limestone cliffs.
- Medieval fortresses and historical sites.
- Centuries old churches and cathedrals (because you are in Europe, after all)
- The modern history of the break-up of Yugoslavia, and the peace that has endured in the region.
- Transylvania – go visit the castle that inspired the legend of Dracula.
- Nicola Tesla museum – We’ve heard lots about this fellow in the past few years – why not learn about him on his home turf?
There is no doubt that the history we learn and are familiar with is that of our own country, and of Western Europe. The history and culture of Eastern Europe is every bit as interesting, and it is not as completely overrun with tourists as Western Europe has been this past year.
Today’s Travel Opportunities
Several River Cruise Companies have itineraries on the Lower Danube:
AMA Waterways — Gems of Southeast Europe
- 7-nights between Budapest to Guirgiu (Romania)
- Depart June 17, 2024 from $3249 per person. Includes a $150 per person on board credit.
- Available escorted extensions to:
- Vienna, Austria for 2 nights.
- Bucharest, Romania for 2 nights
- Istanbul for 3 -nights
Uniworld’s Highlights of Eastern Europe
- 10 days between Budapest to Bucharest (Romania)
- Depart in April from $4499. September from $4999. Includes a $150 per person on board credit.
- 10% pay in full discount available on new bookings
- Available extensions to Budapest for 2-nights.
Viking Passage to Eastern Europe
- 11-days between Budapest and Bucharest
- Depart in June from $4499. November from $3599. Includes a $100 per person on board credit.
- Available extensions to
- Bucharest/Transylvania for 3 nights from $899.
- Istanbul for 3 nights from $1399
- Prague for 3 nights from $1199
- Vienna for 3 nights from $899
Viking Capitals of Eastern Europe
- This is a great option if you’ve got a bit more time, and includes 3-nights aboard the ship in Vienna.
- 17-days between Vienna and Bucharest
- Depart in June from $5499. November from $5299. Includes a $100 per person on board credit.
If you’d rather explore this region by small-ship Ocean cruise, here’s one option:
Oceania Vista Aegean & Adriatic Cruise
- 10-nights between Istanbul and Venice departing June 19, 2024
- Visit Istanbul (overnight), Izmir (Turkey), Santorini, Argostoli (Greece), Corfu, Dubrovnik, Kotor, Hvar (Croatia), Koper (Slovenia), Trieste (for Venice).
- Veranda rooms start at $4999. Includes beer/wine with meals, wifi, a $400 per person shore excursion credit, and all specialty dining. We can also get you Free Gratuities on this sailing
Recently booked a Viking Cruise?
Viking makes it really easy to book direct, either online or by phone. Our clients worry that if they book on-line, that they’re cutting us out, but if you let us know after you’ve booked, then we can still help you with your reservation.
We’ll check over your booking to make sure you’re getting the best possible deal, and we will also add some onboard credits that are not available on direct bookings.
We can add at least $100 per person onboard credit to any direct Viking reservation made in the last 60 days.
There is never a situation where you’ll get a better deal by booking directly with Viking (or any other cruise line).
Also, in case you’re wondering, there is NO fee to work with us. We get paid commission by the cruise lines after our clients travel. So, please get in touch to let us know about your existing reservations (including those made while on board).
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If you’re planning a trip, I’d love to help! Click here or call 800-876-0168 to get in touch today.
I look forward to hearing from you.
Sue Bradley
Sue Bradley
