DAY 1 – THURSDAY, JULY 22

Depart the U.S. for Bucharest, Romania

Meet your Champlain Tours escort and board your overnight flight bound for Romania. Relax in the knowledge that everything is fully organized and accompanied.

DAY 2 – FRIDAY, JULY 23

Arrival in Bucharest

Welcome to Romania — The “Paris of the East”

Your journey into the heart of Eastern Europe begins in Bucharest, a city where grand boulevards, elegant architecture, and a rich cultural past create an atmosphere both vibrant and historic.

Often called the “Paris of the East,” Bucharest reveals its charm slowly—through tree-lined avenues, Belle Époque buildings, and lively cafés filled with locals enjoying the rhythm of city life. From the moment you arrive, you’ll sense that this capital city holds stories waiting to be discovered.

Today is yours to relax after your travels and begin soaking in the character of Romania’s fascinating capital. Perhaps take a leisurely stroll along Calea Victoriei (Victory Avenue), one of the city’s most elegant boulevards, lined with historic palaces, museums, charming churches, and stylish boutiques.

Pause at a sidewalk café for a cup of strong Romanian coffee, explore a hidden courtyard restaurant, or wander through the city’s blend of classical architecture, communist-era landmarks, and modern European energy.

As evening settles over Bucharest, the anticipation of the adventure ahead begins to grow. Tomorrow you will journey into the dramatic landscapes of the Carpathian Mountains, where castles, legends, and the history of Transylvania await.

Tonight, rest and enjoy your first taste of Romania—your gateway to the legendary Danube River journey soon to unfold.

DAY 3 – SATURDAY, JULY 24

Into the Carpathians – Castles of Romanian Royalty

Bucharest – Sinaia – Brasov

The road winds north from Bucharest, rising slowly into the emerald folds of the Carpathian Mountains, a landscape where legends seem to linger in the morning mist.

Today’s journey feels like stepping into the pages of a royal chronicle. Your first stop is the magnificent Cantacuzino Castle, a hidden gem of aristocratic Romania, where stone towers overlook sweeping mountain valleys. Here, beneath the shadow of the mountains, you’ll enjoy a relaxed local Romanian lunch, a moment to savor both the cuisine and the scenery.

Soon the road climbs higher toward one of Eastern Europe’s most enchanting palaces.

In the mountain resort town of Sinaia, known as the “Pearl of the Carpathians,” stands the extraordinary Peleș Castle—a fairy-tale residence built for the kings of Romania. Turrets, carved wood interiors, stained glass, and lavish salons reveal the grandeur of Europe’s royal past.

By late afternoon you arrive in the medieval town of Brasov, nestled beneath the forested slopes of Transylvania. Colorful baroque buildings line the squares, church bells echo across the rooftops, and the surrounding mountains frame the town like a painting.

Tonight you settle in for your first evening in Transylvania.

BUCHAREST, ROMANIA

Welcome to Bucharest—The “Paris of the East”

The day is yours to relax and enjoy Bucharest. Spend some free time exploring this fascinating city on your own to discover

its trendy shops, cafés, museums, beautiful homes, and churches along Victory Avenue.Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

DAY 4 – SUNDAY, JULY 25

Legends of Transylvania

Brasov

Morning light reveals the charm of Brasov, one of Romania’s most beautifully preserved medieval cities. On a guided walk through its historic streets, you’ll discover centuries-old squares, Gothic churches, and narrow cobblestone lanes that whisper stories of Saxon merchants and medieval guilds.

The heart of the city is Council Square, surrounded by pastel buildings and crowned by the dramatic Black Church, one of the largest Gothic churches in Eastern Europe.

The afternoon is yours to wander—perhaps lingering at a café, exploring local artisan shops, or simply absorbing the atmosphere of this captivating Transylvanian town.

But as evening approaches, the legends begin.

Just beyond Brasov rises the dramatic silhouette of Bran Castle, the fortress forever linked with the legend of Dracula. Illuminated against the twilight sky, the castle’s towers and winding staircases create a hauntingly beautiful setting for an unforgettable visit.

Inside, centuries of folklore and history come alive.

Your evening concludes with dinner near the castle, where stories of Vlad the Impaler and Transylvanian myths linger long after nightfall.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 5 – MONDAY, JULY 26

Bucharest – A City of History and Revolution

Brasov – Bucharest – Oltenita (Embarkation)

The journey returns south to Bucharest, Romania’s vibrant capital—a city where grand boulevards and Belle Époque architecture earned it the nickname “Little Paris of the East.”

During your guided tour you will visit Royal Palace Square, a historic site that played a pivotal role in the 1989 Romanian Revolution, when citizens rose up to overthrow the communist regime of Nicolae Ceaușescu.

The city’s history is complex, powerful, and unforgettable.

Later this afternoon, the journey transitions from land to river as you board your elegant Avalon Suite Ship® in nearby Oltenita.

Your floating home awaits.

As evening falls, the ship slips quietly onto the waters of the Danube River, beginning the grand river voyage through the heart of Eastern Europe.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6 – TUESDAY, JULY 27

Bulgaria’s Elegant Riverside City

Rousse – Veliko Târnovo & Arbanassi

Morning arrives in Rousse, Bulgaria’s most elegant river city, often called “Little Vienna.” Grand facades, leafy boulevards, and ornate architecture reflect its prosperous past as a major Danube port.

Guests may choose their own adventure today.

Some may explore Rousse by bicycle along the Danube, discovering quiet streets and riverfront parks.

Others may join a guided exploration of the city’s architectural treasures, including the beautiful Holy Trinity Church, before continuing to the extraordinary Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, carved directly into cliffs above the Rusenski Lom River.

For those seeking deeper history, a full-day journey leads to Veliko Târnovo, the medieval capital of Bulgaria. Stone houses cling dramatically to the cliffs above the Yantra River, and ancient fortifications recall the days when Bulgarian kings ruled these lands.

Nearby lies Arbanassi, a perfectly preserved village of the Bulgarian Revival period, where time seems to have paused centuries ago.

By evening, your ship continues west along the Danube.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7 – WEDNESDAY, JULY 28

Vidin and the Sculpted Stones of Time

Vidin – Belogradchik

Today the river carries you to the charming Bulgarian town of Vidin, where medieval walls and quiet squares overlook the Danube.

You may hike to the imposing Baba Vida Fortress, one of the best-preserved medieval castles in Bulgaria, rising proudly beside the river.

Another option leads to one of Europe’s most astonishing geological wonders—the Belogradchik Rocks. Over 200 million years of wind and erosion have sculpted towering red sandstone formations that resemble castles, giants, and mythical creatures.

Or perhaps indulge in the pleasures of the region with a Bulgarian winery visit, where centuries-old winemaking traditions continue today.

Tonight, the culture of Bulgaria comes alive onboard with an energetic folk music and dance performance.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8 – THURSDAY, JULY 29

The Iron Gates – Europe’s Most Spectacular River Gorge

Iron Gates – Golubač – Lepenski Vir

This morning brings one of the great highlights of the entire Danube.

The ship glides through the breathtaking Iron Gates Gorge, where towering cliffs rise dramatically on both sides of the river, forming a natural border between Romania and Serbia.

These narrow passages have challenged travelers for thousands of years.

Later, a guided excursion reveals the extraordinary prehistoric settlement of Lepenski Vir, one of Europe’s most important archaeological discoveries, where ancient civilizations once lived along the Danube more than 8,000 years ago.

Nearby stands the magnificent Golubač Fortress, its medieval towers rising directly from the cliffs beside the river.

Few places in Europe combine such natural beauty and deep history.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9 – FRIDAY, JULY 30

Belgrade – Where Rivers and Empires Meet

Belgrade, Serbia

At the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers, the vibrant capital of Serbia awaits.

Belgrade has stood at the crossroads of civilizations for more than two thousand years—Roman, Byzantine, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian influences all shaping its character.

A guided tour reveals highlights including the magnificent Saint Sava Cathedral, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.

Those seeking a more active adventure may explore the city by bike along the Danube, discovering Belgrade’s lively neighborhoods and riverside promenades.

Later, enjoy time strolling the famous Knez Mihailova Street, a lively pedestrian boulevard filled with cafés, shops, and music.

In the evening, a special onboard lecture brings the history of the Balkan states vividly to life.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10 – SATURDAY, JULY 31

Novi Sad – Serbia’s Cultural Jewel

Often called the Athens of Serbia, Novi Sad is known for its graceful architecture, artistic spirit, and welcoming atmosphere.

Explore the city’s elegant Austro-Hungarian old town, with its baroque facades and lively squares.

Or hike up to the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress, where sweeping views of the Danube stretch across the plains.

Another delightful option leads to Sremski Karlovci, a charming wine village where guests visit the Museum of Beekeeping and enjoy a tasting in the historic Živanović Wine Cellar.

This region has been producing honey and wine for centuries.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11 – SUNDAY, AUGUST 1

Croatia’s Danube Frontier

Ilok – Vukovar

The ship reaches Ilok, a medieval Croatian town perched above rolling vineyards along the Danube.  Here, winemaking traditions stretch back more than 1,000 years. A guided tour reveals the town’s fortress walls, historic churches, and renowned wine cellars where Croatia’s finest vintages mature.

Later, the ship sails onward to Vukovar, a city whose history reflects both tragedy and resilience.

A walking tour reveals the cultural traditions of this important river port, followed by a relaxed local beer tastingcelebrating Croatian brewing heritage.

This evening, music and entertainment once again bring the Danube to life onboard.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12 – MONDAY, AUGUST 2

Hungary’s Hidden Treasures

Mohács – Pécs

Your final country on this journey is Hungary, beginning in the quiet riverside town of Mohács.

Guests may explore the town’s historic squares and visit the remarkable St. Nicholas Watermill, one of the last functioning mills of its kind still grinding grain by traditional methods.

Another excursion travels to the historic city of Pécs, where ancient Roman, Christian, and Ottoman influences intertwine.

Here you’ll visit the extraordinary 4th-century underground Christian tombs, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with vivid early Christian frescoes.

The visit concludes with a beautiful organ concert, filling the cathedral with music that echoes through centuries.

Tonight, the ship glides toward one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 13 - TUESDAY, AUGUST 3

Budapest – The Pearl of the Danube

At sunrise, the ship arrives in Budapest, often called the “Pearl of the Danube.”

Spanning both sides of the river—Buda’s hills and Pest’s grand boulevards—the city is one of Europe’s most breathtaking capitals.

A guided tour introduces you to Heroes’ Square, the majestic Parliament building, and the historic avenues of this elegant city.

The afternoon is yours to explore.

Walk across the famous Chain Bridge, sip coffee in a traditional Hungarian café, or climb the hills above the Danube for spectacular views of the city.

Budapest invites discovery at every corner.

Meals Included: Breakfast

DAY 14 - WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 4

Farewell to the Danube

After breakfast, your remarkable journey through Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, and Hungary comes to an end.

But the stories of castles, rivers, empires, and cultures will travel home with you—memories written along the timeless waters of the Danube River.

Meals Included: Breakfast

NOTE:  SOME GUEST WILL SAIL ONTO PRAGUE.  ASK US MORE!