E XC LU S I V E AU S T R A L I A N C H A RT E R A B OA R D T H E R I V E R P R I N C E S S • 2 011
PRAGUE • BUDAPEST • VIENNA • BELGRADE • ISTANBUL
This unique combination of luxury hotel accommodation, coach
travel and first-class river cruising brings the best of Europe closer
than ever.
The rich history of Prague, the classical beauty of Vienna, the intrigue
of eastern Europe, and the outstandingly exotic Istanbul…it’s possible
you won’t be able to take it all in but you could have the adventure of
a lifetime when trying.
Insight Vacations (Europe’s foremost travel operator) and Uniworld
(Europe’s most elegant river cruises) have left nothing out of these
perfectly planned itineraries. You’ll enjoy the quiet majesty of the
Danube, exploring old world cities and captivating shore excursions.
And all while delighting in exceptional, friendly service.
Morning, noon and night, you’ll have a choice of cultural, historical and
culinary delights (on land and water) that can’t be imagined— they
must be experienced first-hand.
Innovative, inspiring, intimate, these tours are designed to deliver a new
perspective on Europe.
•
•
•
•
LOOK AT THESE AMAZING INCLUSIONS:
3 NIGHTS PRE* or POST* CRUISE IN PRAGUE including:
ACCOMMODATION at the H ILTON HOTEL
BREAKFAST and DINNER DAILY • SCENIC EVENING RIVER CRUISE
LOCAL TOURING & EXPERT GUIDES including a visit to CESKY KRUMLOV
• 14 NIGHT CRUISE ABOARD RIVER PRINCESS as per itinerary including:
• EXTENSIVE SIGHTSEEING in each PORT including DAY TOURS
to SALZBURG, MELK ABBEY, SCHOENBRUNN, BRATISLAVA,
BUDAPEST and VARNA (BLACK SEA)
• SPECIAL EVENING CONCERT in VIENNA
• ALL MEALS and BEER, WINE and SOFT DRINKS with DINNER
• BOTTLED WATER in each STATEROOM and SPECIALTY COFFEES
• GRATUITIES and SERVICES of a CRUISE MANAGER • PORT CHARGES
•
•
•
•
9 DAYS (pre or post cruise) of private, unique COACH TOURING with INSIGHT VACATIONS including:
FIRST CLASS ACCOMMODATION • BREAKFAST DAILY and 8 DINNERS
DISCOVER TRANSYLVANIA including DRACULA’S BIRTHPLACE and BRAN CASTLE
EXTENSIVE SIGHTSEEING and DAY TOURS including visits to BUCHAREST, SOFIA,
RILA MONASTERY, PLOVDIV, ISTANBUL, THE BLUE MOSQUE and a CRUISE of the BOSPHORUS
• ENGLISH-SPEAKING GUIDE
• GRATUITIES TO TOUR GUIDES, DRIVERS, PORTERS AND HOTEL STAFF,
AND RESTAURANTS WHERE MEAL IS INCLUDED
• TRANSFERS THROUGHOUT
* Pre cruise for Itinerary #1, post cruise for Itinerary #2
* Post cruise for Itinerary #1, pre cruise for Itinerary #2
As the River Princess will be your home-away-from-home, everything
about it is intended to make this cruise unforgettable.
The attention to detail will enchant you: award-winning hospitality, rich
fabrics, luxurious decor, plush leather…it abounds in signature touches
and modern conveniences.
This boutique hotel-style ship promises you a unique ‘Danube experience’.
While its compactness ensures you can visit the river’s smallest ports,
its common rooms, suites and staterooms have an amazingly roomy feel.
There’s an inviting atmosphere, evident as soon as you enter the elegant
lobby and even more so in your suite or stateroom.
And after a day of sightseeing, nothing matches the comfort of this all-suite
ship. Purposely restricted to 134 guests, the River Princess boasts a staff
member for every three guests and affords the most intimate surroundings.
Comfortingly, English is the main language onboard and the service is
five star from the moment you board. Along with its exhaustive list
of amenities, the River Princess offers you the convenience of all
meals being served onboard — in a variety of dining experiences,
including al-fresco.
The River Princess offers many advantages over
other forms of cruising: unpacking once, never
waiting in long lines, nor having to tender into
a port, and no rough water. And captivating
shore excursions are all included.
Europe’s most elegantly appointed
boutique, hotel-style river cruise ship
awaits you.
River Princess, at a glance
Public areas and services: a panoramic Main Lounge (and
full service bar); Captain’s Lounge/Library (and bar),
elegant restaurant, sun-deck (with chess and shuffleboard),
sky lounge, fitness room, sauna, massage treatments, gift
boutique, laundry services elevator, 24 hour specialty coffee
and tea bar, and wireless internet access in public areas.
Staterooms and suites, each offers: an uninterrupted riverview with hotel-style beds, the finest linens (wool cashmere
blankets, plush towels and 100% Egyptian cotton sheets),
a vanity and built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, controllable air
conditioning, telephone, television (with satellite channels),
and a fully appointed bathroom with L’Occitane amenities.
Rhine Deck staterooms and suites have French balconies.
River Princess: Specifications
Refurbished:
2009
Guests:
134
Length:
110 metres
Staterooms:
62
Beam:
11.4 metres
Suites:
4
Do you harbour a love of history, food and wine, architecture, music and
diverse cultures? Here is a taste of what this tour has for you.
Prague Home to 1.3 million people and known as the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’.
It sits astride the Vltava River, in central Bohemia, and was the capital city of
the Holy Roman Empire. Art Noveau, Baroque, Gothic, Renaissance, Cubist,
Neo-Classical…Praha (in Czech) is architecturally perhaps without equal.
Passau Sitting astride 3 rivers in Lower Bavaria, about 50,000 people call this
town home (about 10,000 are university students). An ancient Roman colony, it’s
the quintessential river town and home of the world’s second-largest church organ.
Vienna 1.7 million live within the city limits. It’s Austria’s biggest by far, hosts
the United Nations, and its centre is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Founded
around 500 BC, Vienna (officially ‘Wien’) is considered the last great capital for
nineteenth century balls and hosts over 200 each year.
Bratislava Capital of the Slovak Republic, it borders Austria and Hungary (the
only national capital to border two countries). Settlement began around 5000
BC; today’s architecture is a mix of medieval towers and grand modern buildings.
Budapest Hungary’s capital has about 1.7 million inhabitants, occupies both
banks of the Danube and became a single city in 1873 (joining Buda, Obuda
and Pest). One of Europe’s most beautiful cities, it hosts about 80 geothermal
springs and almost countless buildings of note.
Vukovar Croatia’s biggest river port, located where the Vuka and the Danube
rivers meet. Settled around 6th century BC, it was devastated during the War
of Independence and though much has been rebuilt, it still shows the scars.
Belgrade Capital of Serbia, it is the ‘birthplace of prehistoric culture’. It abounds
in historic sites, museums and wildly varying architecture. A renowned tertiary
centre, Belgrade University has 90,000 enrolments (one of Europe’s largest).
Sofia Bulgaria’s capital with 1.4 million people, it is a prehistoric settlement
with the town’s walls dating before the 7th century BC. It hosts many museums
and a renowned mineral spring.
Rila Bulgaria’s largest (and most striking) monastery sits in a wondrous mountain
range with spectacular panoramas. Truly alpine, this area features many glacial
lakes and hot springs.
Plovdiv Bulgaria’s second largest city, with about 380,000 citizens, has roots
stretching over an astounding 6,000 years. Unsurprisingly perhaps, it has 200+
archaeological sites (and an asteroid named in its honour).
Istanbul Previously ‘Byzantium’ and ‘Constantinople’, it is Turkey’s largest city
with nearly 13 million inhabitants. Settlement began before the Bosphorus Strait
was even formed; it now extends into Europe and Asia (the only city to be
situated in two continents). Summer is hot and humid but it snows in winter.
Don’t miss this opportunity for a new perspective on an old world...
27 days /26 nights • Departs May 20, 2011
DAY 1, FRIDAY (D)
ARRIVE IN PRAGUE
Welcome to Prague! We are met by the Tour Leader at the airport and
transferred to the Hilton Hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to
relax or explore Prague. Dinner tonight is included at the Hilton Hotel.
DAY 2, SATURDAY, (BB, HD)
PRAGUE SIGHTSEEING
Today, our local expert guide shows us the 1000 year old Hradcany Castle
and the majestic St Vitus Cathedral, before we descend to the Old Town,
where our tour concludes at the astronomical clock. Later there is time
to shop for Bohemian crystal, Carlsbad porcelain, and custom jewellery.
This evening, enjoy dinner at one of Prague’s top restaurants and then
embark on a scenic river cruise to see the beautiful illuminated architecture.
DAY 3, SUNDAY (BB, HD)
PRAGUE SIGHTSEEING
This morning we visit the Jewish Quarter and the world’s oldest operating
Synagogue. The day is then at leisure before we enjoy Czech cuisine and
the famed beer and local entertainment in an Old Town restaurant.
We tour through Old Town Bratislava to see Freedom Square and Michael’s
Gate to end at central Main Square for shopping or coffee.
DAY 10, SUNDAY (BB, L, D)
BRATISLAVA ~ BUDAPEST
This morning take a guided city tour of Budapest; one of Europe’s most
beautiful cities. Our walk is through the historic district to visit St. Matthias
church and Fisherman’s Bastion to oversee the city. We continue on with
the National Museum, Liberty Bridge, Andrassy Boulevard, St. Stephen’s
Cathedral, all from the comfort of a coach.
DAY 11, MONDAY (BB, L, D)
BUDAPEST
Today is at leisure to further explore Budapest. You may like to visit one of
the city’s famous thermal pools or the Great Market Hall for locally made
souvenirs. There is an optional afternoon tour to Puszta.
DAY 12, TUESDAY (BB, L, D)
BUDAPEST ~ VUKOVAR
After breakfast we leave Prague to drive through the Bohemian countryside. We pass the town of Tabor, headquarters of the 15th century reformer
John Huss, and continue south to medieval Cesky Krumlov. Here we
have an orientation tour of this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site,
with its ancient town and renaissance castle. There’s time to explore at leisure
before journeying to Passau to board the River Princess for our cruise.
Today we sail to Vukovar, Croatia’s largest river port, and where the Vuka
and Danube rivers join. We will learn about the Homeland War and see
the resulting devastation.
Enroute to Vukovar, we stop in Osijek for a memorable visit of a local
school where children perform songs and show us their classrooms. This
is followed by a delicious home-hosted lunch and more touring, including
Tvrda, the old part of Osijek. On our return to the River Princess, you’ll
see many of this prosperous city’s buildings have been restored but there
are visible scars from the Serbian/Croatian conflict of the ’90s.
DAY 5, TUESDAY (BB, L, D)
DAY 13, WEDNESDAY (BB, L, D)
DAY 4, MONDAY (BB, L, D) PRAGUE ~ EMBARK CRUISE IN PASSAU
PASSAU ~ LINZ
VUKOVAR ~ BELGRADE
Today, enjoy a full day tour to Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
known for its well-preserved medieval town core and wonderful musical
heritage. During your guided walking tour, marvel at the 15th century
cathedral; stroll the famous Getreidegasse shopping street, and also pass
by the birth place and childhood home of Mozart. You can also admire
the Mirabellgarten, featured in the beloved film The Sound of Music.
Today’s tour takes us to Belgrade, Serbia’s capital and largest city. One of
Europe’s oldest cities, it has a tumultuous history. Our guided walk takes
us to the main Monuments of Kalemegdan fortress and parks. During
a city drive we view the National Museum, Parliament House, Town Hall,
Dom Cathedral, pass the Tomb of National Hero Tito and see old parts of
Belgrade along the river. The afternoon is at leisure for further exploring.
DAY 6, WEDNESDAY (BB, L, D)
DAY 14, THURSDAY (BB, L, D)
LINZ ~ MELK
After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of the superb Melk Abbey. Napoleon’s
headquarters for his campaign against Austria, its terrace offers superb
views of the Danube. We will also see Abbey Church with its beautiful
marble embellishments and famous frescoes. In the afternoon, enjoy a
scenic sailing through the Wachau Valley with a stop in Dürnstein, where
King Richard the Lion-Heart was held captive by Duke Leopold V.
DAY 7, THURSDAY (BB, L, D)
MELK ~ VIENNA
Today enjoy a morning city tour of Vienna, a treasure trove of secular and
sacred gems including St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the stately Ringstrasse;
a broad thoroughfare surrounded by imperial buildings and monuments.
Visit the Baroque State Hall of the Austrian National Library — perhaps
the most beautiful of all library rooms. Then we travel to Schoenbrunn
Palace, one of Austria’s most important cultural monuments; original
buildings date to the middle ages. Enjoy the exquisite gardens of this
extensive complex and tour the Palais.
DAY 8, FRIDAY (BB, L, D)
VIENNA
Today is at your leisure. Explore a palace further, delve into the region’s art
nouveau splendour and famous Secession art movement or just relax
in a Viennese coffeehouse. Tonight we are treated to a concert.
DAY 9, SATURDAY (BB, L, D)
VIENNA ~ BRATISLAVA
We enjoy a leisurely cruising to Bratislava. In the afternoon,
we tour Slovakia’s largest city and capital. The country’s
economic, cultural, and political centre, is also home
to parliament, museums, theatres and galleries.
IRON GATES CRUISING
Spend a relaxing day cruising between Serbia and Romania through the
“Iron Gates”, an 80-mile sequence of gorges, where the mighty Danube
separates the Carparthian Mountains from the Balkan Mountains. It’s one
of Europe’s most dramatic and beautiful natural displays.
DAY 15, FRIDAY (BB, L, D)
VIDIN
Enjoy a half day tour to the Belogradchik Rock Formations, a Bulgarian
natural wonder. On the west side of the Balkan Mountains, it’s a
fairytale world of weathered red sandstone in fantastic formations.
Then we enjoy lunch and dinner back onboard the River Princess.
DAY 16, SATURDAY (BB, L, D)
VIDIN ~ ROUSSE
Today, enjoy a tour to Arbanassi, noted for its rich history and examples of
17th and 18th century architecture. We then explore Veliko Tarnovo, widely
considered to be Bulgaria’s medieval capital. Located on the Yantra River,
this region has 7000 years of history and unique architecture including
the hillside homes, palaces, towers, ancient columns and monasteries.
DAY 17, SUNDAY (BB, L, D)
ROUSSE ~ VARNA
Today includes a day tour to Varna. After arriving in this ‘Summer Capital’
of Bulgaria, we visit the Archaeological Museum to see Varna’s collection of
the world’s oldest gold and explore the history of Varna and the Black Sea
region. Following the museum visit, we are free to stroll through the pedestrian zone, a great spot for shopping, and enjoy a lunch in a local
restaurant. During free time after lunch, you can visit the beach or walk
along the coastal ‘Sea Garden’ before returning to the River Princess in
the afternoon.
(BB, L, D) indicates meals included: BB = Buffet Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner HD = Highlight Dinner
DAY 18, MONDAY (BB, D)
ROUSSE ~ GIURGIU ~ BRASOV
After breakfast, disembark River Princess in Giurgiu and head north to
Sighisoara. Founded by 12th century Transylvanian Saxons, it stands as one
of Europe’s most beautiful and best-preserved medieval towns. We will then
visit the birthplace of Vlad Dracula (aka Vlad the Impaler), ruler of the
province of Walachia from 1456 to 1462 and the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s
fictional ‘Count Dracula’. We then head to Brasov, a 13th century town
known by its German colonists as Kronstadt. Enjoy an orientation tour
of the old town before being transferred to the Arno Palace Hotel for our
overnight stay. The rest of the evening is at leisure.
DAY 19, TUESDAY (BB, D)
BRASOV ~ BUCHAREST
Enroute to the capital, Bucharest, enjoy an excursion to Peles, the most
beautiful of Romania’s royal castles. After exploring its lavish art, armour
and tapestries we continue through the Transylvanian Alps. Discover if the
image of Dracula’s castle is true as we visit Bran Castle. Arrive in Bucharest
in late afternoon and transfer to the Radisson Blu Hotel for two nights.
DAY 20, WEDNESDAY (BB)
BUCHAREST SIGHTSEEING
The tree lined boulevards, the wonderful late 19th Century architecture,
and its own Arc de Triomphe, have given the Romanian capital Bucharest
the nickname “Little Paris of the East”. Highlights of the sightseeing tour
include the immense Parliament Palace, one of the largest buildings in
the world, University Square and the former Communist headquarters.
Spend the remainder of the day at leisure to wander around the shops or
sit and relax in a cafe.
DAY 21, THURSDAY (BB, D)
BUCHAREST ~ SOFIA
Our journey takes us over the Romanian border into Bulgaria and to Sofia,
one of Europe’s most compact and walkable capital cities. Here the old
east-meets-west, with onion-domed churches, Ottoman mosques and Red
Army monuments topped with Soviet soldiers. They now share the skyline
with malls, first class hotels and its best bars and restaurants. Enjoy dinner
at the Kempinski Hotel where we then spend the next two nights.
DAY 22, FRIDAY (BB, D)
SOFIA SIGHTSEEING
Enjoy a day of sightseeing with a local guide taking us to St Sofia Church,
across from the golden domed St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. The rest of
the day is at leisure to explore. Perhaps spend the afternoon shopping or
visit the National Museum of History. Tonight, enjoy delicious Bulgarian
cuisine and wine at a traditional folklore style restaurant.
DAY 23, SATURDAY (BB, HD)
SOFIA ~ RILA ~ PLOVDIV
Today’s excursion is to the superb Rila Monastery; the Bulgarian Orthodox
Church’s most important symbol and a sanctuary for Bulgarian culture
during the Turkish occupation. We continue to Plovdiv for our night at
the Novotel Hotel and dinner at the city’s most atmospheric restaurant.
DAY 24, SUNDAY (BB, D)
PLOVDIV ~ ISTANBUL
Plovdiv’s appeal derives from its lovely old town, the Stariot Grad, largely
restored to a mid-19th century appearance, complete with winding cobblestone streets. It is packed with house-museums and art galleries and, unlike
many other ‘old towns,’ has artists still living and working within its tranquil
confines. The town also boasts Bulgarian, Thracian, Byzantine and Roman
antiquities, including well-preserved Roman amphitheatres.This morning’s
walking tour shows us the city’s highlights, before going to Turkey and
its capital Istanbul, a city uniquely located on two continents. After the
tour we are transferred for 3 nights at the Crowne Plaza Old City Hotel.
DAY 25, MONDAY (BB, HD)
ISTANBUL SIGHTSEEING
Today’s sightseeing includes St Sophia’s Cathedral. It is one of the greatest
examples of Byzantine architecture, rich with mosaics, marble pillars and
coverings. Now a museum, Hagia Sophia is acknowledged as one of the
world’s great buildings. We then visit the famous Blue Mosque and the
Topkapi Palace, former seat of the Ottoman emperors, to admire its
treasures.The afternoon is at leisure to shop at the Grand Bazaar. Tonight
we dine at a local restaurant.
DAY 26, TUESDAY (BB, HD)
ISTANBUL SIGHTSEEING
After a brief visit to the 17th century Egyptian Spice Market, embark on an
unforgettable cruise along the Bosphorus, the beautiful strait that divides
Europe from Asia. Winding between wooded hills, it’s lined with mosques,
castles, 19th century mansions, picturesque villages and the extravagant
baroque palaces of the late Ottoman sultans. Later, we enjoy a fantastic afternoon tea at the majestic Ciragan Palace Kempinski. Tonight, our farewell
dinner is in one of Istanbul’s top restaurants.
DAY 27, WEDNESDAY (BB)
DEPART ISTANBUL
Our memorable tour ends with an airport transfer for our flight home.
OPTIONAL ISTANBUL POST TOUR EXTENSION Pricing at bottom of page
DAY 27, WEDNESDAY (BB)
ISTANBUL
Extension to Anzac Cove: depart by coach, with the Tour Director, this morning and drive along the shores of the Sea of Marmara to the Peninsula of
Gelibolu, better known in the west as Gallipoli. Visit the battlefields where,
for 9 months during the Great War, Anzac troops fought unsuccessfully
for control of the strategic Dardanelle Straits.
See Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery, the final resting place for this
campaign’s fallen. Evening is at leisure after arriving back at the Crowne
Plaza Old City Hotel.
DAY 28, THURSDAY (BB)
DEPART ISTANBUL
Our memorable tour ends with an airport transfer for our flight home.
Everything European
Departs May 20, 2011
Per Person Twin Share
Category
Five
Four
Three
Two
One
Suite
Cruise
and Tour
$9,990
$10,490
$10,990
$11,490
$11,990
$12,990
$16,845
$19,417
$20,417
$21,417
$23,417
Per Person Single
Cruise
and Tour
$14,524
Optional Istanbul Pre Tour Extension: $415 per person, twin share (price based on a minimum of 15 passengers) • $530 per person, single
27 days /26 nights • Departs May 28, 2011
DAY 1, SATURDAY (D)
ARRIVE IN ISTANBUL
Welcome to Istanbul! Upon arrival we are met at the airport by the Tour
Leader and transferred to the Crowne Plaza Old City Hotel. The rest of the
day is at leisure to relax or explore Istanbul.
DAY 2, SUNDAY (BB, HD)
ISTANBUL SIGHTSEEING
Today’s sightseeing includes St Sophia’s Cathedral. It is one of the greatest
examples of Byzantine architecture, rich with mosaics, marble pillars and
coverings. Now a museum, Hagia Sophia is acknowledged as one of the
world’s great buildings. We then visit the famous Blue Mosque and the
Topkapi Palace, former seat of the Ottoman emperors, to admire its
treasures. The afternoon is free time to shop at the Grand Bazaar. Tonight we
dine at a local restaurant.
DAY 3, MONDAY (BB, HD)
ISTANBUL
After a brief visit to the 17th century Egyptian Spice Market, embark on an
unforgettable cruise along the Bosphorus, the beautiful strait that divides
Europe from Asia. Winding between wooded hills, it’s lined with mosques,
castles, 19th century mansions, picturesque villages and the extravagant
baroque palaces of the late Ottoman sultans. Later, we enjoy a fantastic afternoon tea at the majestic Ciragan Palace Kempinski. Tonight, dinner is in
one of Istanbul’s top restaurants.
DAY 4, TUESDAY (BB, HD)
ISTANBUL ~ PLOVDIV
After breakfast, travel to the Bulgarian border and then Plovdiv. Its lovely
old town, Stariot Grad, is largely restored to a mid-19th-century appearance
complete with winding cobblestone streets. It’s packed with art galleries
and atmospheric house-museums. And, unlike many other ‘old towns’, it
has artists still working within its tranquil confines. It also boasts Thracian,
Roman, Byzantine and Bulgarian antiquities — the Roman amphitheatres
being the most impressive and the Balkan’s best preserved. Our walking
tour highlights Bulgaria’s second largest city. Enjoy dinner at Plovdiv’s
most atmospheric restaurant before transfering to the Novotel Hotel.
DAY 5, WEDNESDAY (BB, D)
PLOVDIV ~ SOFIA
Today’s excursion is to the superb Rila Monastery; the Bulgarian Orthodox
Church’s most important symbol and a sanctuary for Bulgarian culture
during the Turkish occupation. Next we go to Sofia, one of Europe’s most
compact and walkable capital cities.Here the old east-meets-west, with
a scattering of onion-domed churches,Ottoman mosques and Red Army
monuments topped with Soviet soldiers.They share the skyline with
glitzy shopping malls, first class hotels and the country’s best bars and
restaurants. Enjoy dinner at the Kempinksi Hotel, where we will spend
the next two nights
DAY 6, THURSDAY (BB, HD)
SOFIA SIGHTSEEING
Enjoy a day of sightseeing with a local guide taking us to St Sofia Church,
across from the golden domed St Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Then the
day is at leisure, perhaps shop or visit the National Museum of History.
Tonight, enjoy delicious Bulgarian cuisine at a folklore style restaurant.
DAY 7, FRIDAY (BB, D)
SOFIA ~ BUCHAREST
After breakfast, we depart Sofia and head towards the Bulgarian border to
Romania and its capital Bucharest. Dinner is at the Radisson Blu Hotel,
where we stay for the next two nights
DAY 8, SATURDAY (BB)
BUCHAREST SIGHTSEEING
The tree lined boulevards, wonderful late 19th century architecture,
and its own Arc de Triomphe make the Romanian capital Bucharest
the “Little Paris of the East”. Highlights of our sightseeing include
the Parliament Palace (one of the largest buildings in the world)
University Square and the former Communist headquarters. The remainder of the day is at leisure to wander around the shops or relax in a cafe.
DAY 9, SUNDAY (BB, D)
BUCHAREST ~ BRASOV
Today, enjoy an excursion to Peles, the most beautiful of the Royal Castles
in Romania. After time to explore its lavish art, armour and tapestries we
continue through the Transylvanian Alps. You’ll discover if the popular
image of Dracula’s castle is true as we visit Bran Castle. Arrive in Brasov
in the late afternoon where we are transferred to the Arno Palace Hotel
for our overnight stay.
DAY 10, MONDAY (BB, L, D) BRASOV ~ EMBARK CRUISE IN GIURGIU
After breakfast, enjoy an orientation tour of Brasov, a 13th century town
known by German colonists as Kronstadt. Before embarking the River
Princess in Giurgiu, head north to Sighisoara. Founded by Transylvanian
Saxons in the 12th century, it stands as one of Europe’s most beautiful
and best-preserved medieval towns. We then visit the birthplace of
Vlad Dracula (aka Vlad the Impaler), ruler of the province of Walachia.
He inspired Bram Stoker’s fictional creation, Count Dracula.Then continue
to the port of Giurgiu to board the River Princess.
DAY 11, TUESDAY (BB, L, D)
ROUSSE ~ VARNA
Today includes a day tour to Varna. After arriving in the ‘Summer Capital’
of Bulgaria, we visit the Archaeological Museum to see Varna’s collection of
the world’s oldest gold and explore the history of Varna and the Black Sea
region. Following the museum visit, we are free to stroll the pedestrian zone,
a great spot for shopping, and enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. During free
time after lunch, perhaps visit the beach or walk along the coastal ‘Sea Garden’
before returning to the River Princess in the afternoon.
DAY 12, WEDNESDAY (BB, L, D)
ROUSSE ~ VIDIN
Today, enjoy a tour to Arbanassi, noted for its rich history and examples of
17th and 18th century architecture. We then explore Veliko Tarnovo, widely
considered to be Bulgaria’s medieval capital. Located on the Yantra River,
this region has 7000 years of history and unique architecture including
the hillside homes, palaces, towers, ancient columns and monasteries.
DAY 13, THURSDAY (BB, L, D)
VIDIN
Enjoy a half day tour to the Belogradchik Rock Formations. One of
Bulgaria’snatural wonders, it’s a fairytale world of weathered red sandstone in fantastic formations on the Balkan Mountains’ west side.
Then we enjoy lunch and dinner back onboard the River Princess.
DAY 14, FRIDAY (BB, L, D)
IRON GATES CRUISING
Spend a relaxing day cruising between Serbia and Romania through the
“Iron Gates”, an 80-mile sequence of gorges, where the mighty Danube
separates the Carparthian Mountains from the Balkan Mountains. It’s one
of Europe’s most dramatic and beautiful natural displays.
DAY 15, SATURDAY (BB, L, D)
BELGRADE
Today’s tour takes us to Belgrade, Serbia’s capital and largest city. One of
Europe’s oldest cities, it has a tumultuous history. Our guided walk takes
us to the main Monuments of Kalemegdan fortress and parks. During
a city drive we view the National Museum, Parliament House, Town Hall,
Dom Cathedral, pass the Tomb of National Hero Tito and see old parts of
Belgrade along the river. The afternoon is at leisure for further exploring.
DAY 16, SUNDAY (BB, L, D)
BELGRADE ~ VUKOVAR
Today we sail to Vukovar, Croatia’s largest river port and where the Vuka
and Danube rivers join.We learn of the Homeland War and see the resulting
devastation. Enroute to Vukovar, we stop in Osijek for a memorable visit to
a local school where children perform songs and show us their classrooms.
(BB, L, D) indicates meals included: BB = Buffet Breakfast L = Lunch D = Dinner HD = Highlight Dinner
It’s followed by a delicious home-hosted lunch and more touring, including
Tvrda, the old part of Osijek. On our return to the River Princess, you’ll see
that many buildings of this prosperous city have been restored but there
are visible scars from the Serbian/Croatian conflict of the ’90s.
DAY 17, MONDAY (BB, L, D)
VUKOVAR ~ BUDAPEST
Enjoy a relaxing day cruising from Vukovar to Budapest whilst taking in
the beautiful scenery and facilities onboard the River Princess.
DAY 18, TUESDAY (BB, L, D)
BUDAPEST
This morning take a guided city tour of Budapest; one of Europe’s most
beautiful cities. Our walk is through the historic district to visit St. Matthias
church and Fisherman’s Bastion to oversee the city. We continue to the
National Museum, Liberty Bridge, Andrassy Boulevard, St. Stephen’s
Cathedral, all from the comfort of a coach. The afternoon is at leisure to
further explore Budapest before returning to the River Princess.
for an orientation tour of this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, with
its ancient town and renaissance castle on either side of the River Vltava.
There’s time to explore at leisure before heading north to Prague, passing
the town of Tabor, headquarters of the 15th century reformer John Huss.
We are then transferred to the Hilton Hotel.
DAY 19, WEDNESDAY (BB, L, D)
DAY 25, TUESDAY (BB, HD)
BUDAPEST ~ BRATISLAVA
Enjoy leisurely cruising as we sail towards Bratislava. In the afternoon, enjoy a
city tour of Bratislava, Slovakia’s largest city and capital. It’s the country’s
cultural, political, and economic centre while also home to the parliament,
several universities, museums, theatres and galleries. Our tour takes us
through Old Town Bratislava to see Freedom Square, Michael’s Gate and
then ends at central Main Square for free time with shopping or coffee.
DAY 20, THURSDAY (BB, L, D)
BRATISLAVA ~ VIENNA
Today enjoy a morning city tour of Vienna, a treasure trove of secular and
sacred gems including St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the stately Ringstrasse;
a broad thoroughfare surrounded by imperial buildings and monuments.
Visit the Baroque State Hall of the Austrian National Library — perhaps
the most beautiful library rooms. Then we travel to Schoenbrunn Palace,
one of Austria’s most important cultural monuments; original buildings
date to the middle ages. Enjoy the exquisite gardens of this extensive complex
and tour the Palais.
DAY 21, FRIDAY (BB, L, D)
VIENNA
Today is at your leisure. Explore a palace further, delve into the region’s art
nouveau splendour and famous Secession art movement or just relax in
a Viennese coffeehouse. Tonight we are treated to a concert.
DAY 22, SATURDAY (BB, L, D)
VIENNA ~ MELK
This morning we visit Dürnstein where King Richard the Lion-Heart of
England was held captive by Duke Leopold V. Enjoy scenic sailing as we
cruise along the Danube towards Melk, an Austrian city near the Wachau
valley. We then enjoy a guided tour of the magnificent Melk Abbey. Headquarters for Napoleon in his campaign against Austria, the terrace at Melk
Abbey affords wonderful views of the Danube. We will also see Abbey
Church with its superb marble embellishments and famous frescoes.
DAY 23, SUNDAY (BB, L, D)
MELK ~ LINZ
Today, enjoy a full day tour to Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
known for its well-preserved medieval town core and wonderful musical
heritage. During your guided walking tour, marvel at the 15th century
cathedral; stroll the famous Getreidegasse shopping street, and also pass
by the birthplace and childhood home of Mozart. You can also admire
the Mirabellgarten, featured in the beloved film The Sound of Music.
DAY 24, MONDAY (BB, D)
LINZ ~ PASSAU ~ PRAGUE
Welcome to the Czech Republic! After disembarkation in Passau enjoy a
drive through the green Bohemian countryside to medieval Cesky Krumlov
PRAGUE SIGHTSEEING
Since the “Velvet Revolution” Prague’s been one of Europe’s most fashionable and culturally exciting cities. Our sightseeing with local guide shows
us the 1000 year old Hradcany Castle and the majestic St Vitus Cathedral
before descending to the Old Town. We end our tour at the astronomical
clock. Later there’s time to shop for Bohemian crystal, Carlsbad porcelain
and superb custom jewellery. Enjoy dinner at a top restaurant and a
scenic river cruise to see the beautiful, illuminated architecture.
DAY 26, WEDNESDAY (BB, HD)
PRAGUE SIGHTSEEING
This morning we visit the Jewish Quarter and the world’s oldest operating
Synagogue. The day is then at leisure before we enjoy Czech cuisine and
the famed beer and local entertainment in an Old Town restaurant.
DAY 27, THURSDAY (BB)
DEPART PRAGUE
Our memorable tour ends with an airport transfer for our flight home.
OPTIONAL ISTANBUL PRE-TOUR EXTENSION Pricing at bottom of page
FRIDAY (D)
ARRIVE IN ISTANBUL
Welcome to Istanbul! We are met at the airport by the Tour Leader and
transferred to the Crowne Plaza Old City Hotel. The rest of the day is at
leisure to relax or explore Istanbul.
SATURDAY (BB)
ISTANBUL
Extension to Anzac Cove: depart by coach, with the Tour Director, this morning and drive along the shores of the Sea of Marmara to the Peninsula of
Gelibolu, better known in the west as Gallipoli. Visit the battlefields where,
for 9 months in the Great War, Anzac troops fought unsuccessfully for control
of the strategic Dardanelle Straits. See Anzac Cove and Lone Pine Cemetery,
the final resting place for this campaign’s fallen. Evening is at leisure after
returning to the Crowne Plaza Old City Hotel.
Everything European
Departs May 28, 2011
Per Person Twin Share
Category
Five
Four
Three
Two
One
Suite
Cruise
and Tour
$9,990
$10,490
$10,990
$11,490
$11,990
$12,990
$16,845
$19,417
$20,417
$21,417
$23,417
Per Person Single
Cruise
and Tour
$14,524
Optional Istanbul Pre Tour Extension: $415 per person, twin share (price based on a minimum of 15 passengers) • $530 per person, single
booking terms and conditions
RESERVATIONS AND PAYMENTS
Bookings for these exclusive cruise holidays must be made with
a Cruiseco travel agent in Australia. On confirmation of your booking,
a written confirmation will be sent to your Cruiseco travel agent.
An option will be given for 7 days. Before the option expires it will
be necessary for you to pay a deposit of $1,000 per person. This
deposit secures your hotel/cruise berth. Failure to pay the deposit
by the option due date may result in the cancellation of your booking.
Final payment is due 100 days prior to sailing. If your booking is made
within 100 days prior to sailing, full payment, along with details of
your travel insurance policy will be due immediately.
Any special meal requirements will be made on a “request” basis
only and cannot be guaranteed. Please advise your Cruiseco travel
agent of your requirements at the time of booking
FARES
The fares quoted in this brochure are shown in Australian dollars
and are based on a twin sharing basis, unless specified as a single
cabin category. All rates are subject to change with or without notice.
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN YOUR HOLIDAY PRICE
Passport and visa fees, international airfares and taxes, excess
baggage, insurances of all kinds, laundry, phone calls, additional
accommodation made necessary by flight schedules, additional
beverages not already stated as included, optional excursions,
meals and sightseeing not detailed in the itinerary, and items
of a personal nature are not included in the holiday costs
advertised in this brochure.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTATION
Travel documents will be sent to you approximately 14 days prior to
departure from Australia (providing full payment has been received).
If you are departing Australia earlier, please ask your Cruiseco travel
agent to request your travel documents in good time.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
We recommend that you obtain Travel insurance before paying a
deposit. Failure to obtain travel insurance will not waive any
cancellation fees in the event that you need to cancel your trip.
BOOKING CHANGES AND CANCELLATIONS
In the unfortunate event that you should have to cancel your holiday,
we must be notified in writing. The day that we receive this notice in
writing, will be considered the date that your cancellation has been
made. Certain cancellation fees apply to your holiday if cancelled
after a deposit or final payment has been made.
These cancellation fees will be levied by the shipping company and
possibly other suppliers, and will be greater the closer to your travel
date that you cancel. You should check with your Cruiseco travel
agent what these fees are, before making your booking.
BOOKING CHANGES
A fee of $50 per person will be charged for any revision or alteration
made to a reservation after the booking is confirmed unless the
change increases the value of the booking.
This does not apply to name changes, which are considered as a
cancellation, and normal cancellation fees will apply
CANCELLATIONS AND CANCELLATION FEES
Notice of cancellation must be made in writing to your Cruiseco
travel agent. The following scale of charges (includes GST) will
apply when notice of cancellation is given prior to sailing.
Days before sailing
cancellation received
Cancellation charges
100 plus days
Loss of deposit
99-61 days
50% of total holiday cost
plus admin fee of $100 per person
60 days or less
prior to departure / ‘no-show’
100% of total holiday cost
QANTAS FREQUENT FLYER POINTS
Qantas Frequent Flyer points are awarded on Cruiseco holidays.
Qantas Frequent Flyer members will receive one Qantas Frequent
Flyer point for every $1.50 spent. You must be a member of the
Qantas Frequent Flyer program to earn points in accordance with
the terms and conditions of the Qantas Frequent Flyer program.
A joining fee applies. Points are not awarded on port charges,
government fees, on board gratuities and air taxes.
OTHER CONDITIONS
It is your responsibility to ensure you have read all of the Booking
Conditions and to provide valid travel documents. Be sure to ask
your Travel Agent for advice concerning passport and visa
requirements.
CRUISECO’S STATEMENT OF BUSINESS PRACTICE
Your Cruiseco agent will provide you, on request, with a copy of
Cruiseco’s “Statement of Business Practice”.
BOOKING ARRANGEMENTS
Your booking arrangements are to be made by your Travel Agent
and the person effecting the booking, shall be deemed to have
accepted the booking conditions.
These cruise holidays are promoted by:
Discovery Travel Centre Pty Ltd trading as Cruiseco
Licence No. 2TA001284
ABN 1 200 193 4461
Please contact your local Cruiseco agent for further details
If this box is empty call 1800 225 656 or visit: www.cruising.com.au for details of your nearest Cruiseco agent.