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EXCLUSIVE: US $300^ onboard credit!

Gems of Southeast Europe

Enquire
   
Destination:
Budapest, Hungary
Duration:
7 nights
Offer ends:
28 August 2026
Valid for travel:
Itinerary Starts: 21 June 2027

Details

Gems of Southeast Europe Smithsonian Journeys unveils one of the Danube's most fascinating and lesser-explored regions, where centuries of history, diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes converge. Sailing from Budapest to Giurgiu, this immersive 7-night journey pairs the elegance of award-winning river cruising with the enriching expertise of Smithsonian Journeys, offering deeper insights into every destination along the way.

Begin in Hungary's magnificent capital before cruising through Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, discovering vibrant cities, ancient fortresses and timeless traditions. Wander the charming streets of Vukovar, experience the lively spirit of Belgrade and explore the spectacular Iron Gates, one of Europe's most dramatic river gorges. Visit the remarkably preserved rock carvings of Decebalus, uncover the medieval treasures of Veliko Tarnovo and step back in time among the cobbled lanes of Rousse.

Throughout the journey, Smithsonian experts share fascinating perspectives on the region's history, culture and heritage, bringing each destination vividly to life. Combined with AmaWaterways' spacious ships, regionally inspired cuisine, immersive included excursions and personalised service, this thoughtfully curated itinerary offers a rewarding exploration of Southeast Europe, revealing hidden gems and unforgettable moments at every turn.

  • Fixed Window Category E from $6,709* per person twin share 
  • French Balcony Stateroom – Category C from $9,015* per person twin share 
  • Suite Stateroom – Category SS from $12,755* per person twin share

In partnership with:

Inclusions

  • 7 night cruise from Budapest to Giurgiu on AmaBella
  • All onboard dining with unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks during lunch, dinner and cocktail hours
  • Immersive tours in every destination with knowledgeable local guides
  • Daily onboard entertainment and unlimited Wi-Fi
  • All port charges and gratuities

+ Bonus Extras!

EXCLUSIVE: US $300^ onboard credit!
  • SAVE $750* per stateroom!
  • Two Smithsonian Journeys knowledgeable Experts onboard

Itinerary

Embark on your ship and begin your unforgettable journey.

Step aboard your ship in Budapest and settle into your stateroom as the city’s twinkling skyline and the serene Danube welcome you into your Gems of Southeast Europe journey.

Discover Pécs’ ancient Roman legacy

Wander vibrant squares and landmarks like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Mosque of Pasha Qasim or savor the rich heritage of Hungary’s Szekszárd wine region. Enjoy a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive Pécs experience, including a guided visit to the Zsolnay Cultural Quarter, for an immersive journey into the city’s art, history, and culture.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Pécs Excursion with Zsolnay Cultural Quarter Visit Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive
  • Szekszárd Wine Tasting
  • Guided Bike Ride Along the Danube </dd
  • Scenic Cruising

Prehistoric sites and charming riverside towns

Discover Vukovar on a guided city or bike tour and enjoy a private concert as part of your Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive experience. In the afternoon, savor Croatian wines in the Old Cellars and enjoy a guided visit to the Vucedol Museum on your Osijek city tour, a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive experience. 

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Vukovar City Tour with Private Concert Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive
  • Osijek Tour with Ethnographic Museum Visit Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive
  • Vukovar Bike Tour
  • Croatian Wine Tasting
  • Vucedol Museum

Explore Belgrade’s vibrant streets and historic landmarks, from the Nikola Tesla Museum to the majestic Kalemegdan Fortress. Adventurous passengers can join a bike tour or hike through the city. Enjoy the Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive ‘Brandies of Belgrade’ tasting paired with a guided visit to the National Museum of Serbia, and savor local delicacies. For a more leisurely afternoon, wander Novi Sad’s charming old town and Liberty Square, immersing yourself in the region’s rich culture and tradition.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • “the City by Two Rivers” Tour
  • Belgrade Fortress Hike
  • Belgrade Bike Tour
  • “brandies of Belgrade” Tasting with National Museum of Serbia Guided Visit Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive
  • Novi Sad Tour

Wander ancient strongholds where history and nature collide

Visit the medieval Golubac Fortress before cruising through the awe-inspiring Iron Gates, where the Danube winds between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. Marvel at the dramatic gorges and the striking mountainside carving of King Decebalus. Each view invites you to reflect on the wonders of this remarkable river corridor.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Golubac Fortress with Tasting of Local Fare
  • Scenic Cruising the Iron Gates

Experience Bulgarian traditions like a local

Wander through Vidin, where ancient streets lead to the Baba Vida Fortress, a silent guardian of centuries past. Step into local life with a Bulgarian pastry and yogurt tasting, or pedal along Vidin’s sunlit lanes and let the city’s history unfold around each bend.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Baba Vida Fortress and Vidin Walking Tour
  • Banitsa Pastry and Yogurt Tasting
  • Vidin Bike Tour

Explore medieval strongholds, Neo-Baroque gems, and Bucharest’s charm

Discover Veliko Tarnovo’s medieval fortress and enjoy a Bulgarian wine tasting, or wander Rousse to marvel at the frescoed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo and visit the Rousse Art Gallery, both part of your Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive tours. Alternatively, journey through the Romanian countryside to Bucharest, where elegant streets and historic squares invite leisurely exploration.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Veliko Tarnovo Excursion with Bulgarian Wine Tasting Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive
  • Bucharest Excursion
  • Ivanovo Rock Hewn Churches and Rousse Highlights Tour with Rousse Art Gallery Visit Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive

Disembark the ship.

Terms & Conditions

*Conditions apply. Prices correct as at 14 July 2026 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Offers subject to availability. Agents may charge service fees, rates vary. Payments by credit card will incur a surcharge. All savings are included in the advertised price. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Airfare not included unless otherwise stated. ^Exclusive onboard credit of US $300 per stateroom, twin share is valid on select sailings. To redeem the onboard credit please quote promo code OBC150 when making your booking. Can be applied to all onboard purchases such as laundry, gift shop, and massage services. Onboard credit is non-refundable, non-transferable and is not redeemable for cash. Valid for new bookings only. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. This offer is valid until 28 August 2026, unless sold out prior. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. AmaWaterways and Helloworld Travel booking terms and conditions apply, see in store or websites for details.

From

$6,709* | per person twin share
EXCLUSIVE: US $300^ onboard credit!
Destination:
Budapest, Hungary
Duration:
7 nights
Offer ends:
28 August 2026
Valid for travel:
Itinerary Starts: 21 June 2027
Enquire

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