Tour Details - NORTH SEA - BLACK SEA CRUISE - CATEGORY E
NORTH SEA - BLACK SEA CRUISE - CATEGORY E
DISCOUNTS ON EVERY TOUR, UP TO 10% !!!
Tour Duration: 23 days Tour Code: WOA-E2012 Tour Type: Prices From: A$7694 [Tour Dates]
Tour Itinerary
Day
Description
1
ARRIVE IN BUCHAREST, ROMANIA. Welcome to Bucharest! Its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe have gained this city the name "Paris of the East."
2
BUCHAREST - OLTENITA (EMBARKATION). Much recent history has taken place in Romania's capital city. During your included tour this morning, see the impressive Parliament Building, the second largest building in the world, after the Pentagon. The Royal Palace Square was the scene of riots in 1989, which finally led to the collapse of the communist dictatorship. The former Royal Palace now houses the NATIONAL ART MUSEUM. This afternoon a motorcoach ride takes you to Oltenita, where your river cruise vessel is docked. Before dinner, meet your crew at a welcome reception. (B,D)
3
SILISTRA, BULGARIA. EXCURSION TO VARNA, BLACK SEA. Located in north-eastern Bulgaria, at the country's border with Romania, Silistra is a port city and the capital of an important agricultural region. After breakfast travel by road to Varna. This city on the Black Sea is not only an important naval base and sea resort, but also has a long history. Roman Baths are among the younger artifacts. During your sightseeing you will visit the NATIONAL ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM, home of the Gold of Varna, as featured in National Geographic some years ago. (B,L,D)
4
SVISTOV. EXCURSION TO VELIKO TARNOVO & ARBANASSI. A comfortable ride from Svistov is the ancient Bulgarian capital of Veliko Tarnovo. Situated on three hills surrounding the Yantra River, the city was a natural fortress with ancient stone houses clinging to the steep slopes. The oldest part is Tsarevets Hill, home of the Royal Fortress, palaces and the PATRIARCH'S CHURCH. The historic village of Arbanassi is best known for its ETHNOGRAPHICAL MUSEUM and the outstanding collection of frescoes in the CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY. (B,L,D)
5
IRON GATES. The Trajan Table marking the Roman conquest of Dacia and the Serbian fortresses of Golubac and Smederevo are impressive sights on the left bank of the Danube. The most spectacular scenery must surely be the dramatic gorge of the IRON GATES, a narrow and formerly very dangerous passage dividing Europe's Alps in the northwest from the Carpathians in the southeast and forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. (B,L,D)
6
BELGRADE, SERBIA. The capital of Serbia is situated at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. A local expert will be proud to show you its main sights which include the city's principal landmark, KALEMEGDAN FORTRESS; St. Sava, the world's largest Orthodox church; and Marshal Tito's tomb and monument. The city centre has a lively pedestrian area and charming outdoor cafes. (B,L,D)
7
NOVI SAD. Overlooking the city of Novi Sad, with a spectacular view of the Danube and surroundings, is Marshal Vauban's unconquerable Petrovaradin Fortress. Dramatic events in the recent past have shaped both the present and the future of this region, resplendent with natural beauty and a proud history of struggle, victory and defeat alike. Enjoy an included sightseeing tour of this interesting town before relaxing on board this afternoon as you cruise upriver. (B,L,D)
8
PECS, HUNGARY-KALOCSA. Pecs is Hungary's fifth largest city and its richest in terms of Turkish architecture. Enjoy an orientation and some free time before proceeding to Kalocsa. Founded by St. Stephen in 1009 as an archbishopric, Kalocsa has a most turbulent history. This quiet town, which is best known for paprika and folklore art, is dominated by the Archbishop's Palace and Kalocsa Cathedral, where you will be treated to an ORGAN CONCERT. (B,L,D)
9
BUDAPEST. Spanning the banks of the Danube, Budapest is Eastern Europe's liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Seven bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with FISHERMEN'S BASTION and the Matthias Church is among the many sights your Local Guide will show you. (B,L,D)
10
BUDAPEST-CRUISING. Enjoy some free time in Budapest this morning before cruising to Vienna. Time to relax on board and marvel at the beautiful scenery on both banks of the Danube. Hungary is on your left as you cruise upriver, and Slovakia is on your right. The two countries share the Danube for a 93 kilometres (58 miles) stretch, with the border in the middle of the river. (B,L,D)
11
VIENNA, AUSTRIA. EXCURSION TO THE VIENNA WOODS. Vienna, Austria's capital, is known as the "City of Music" and inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Today, join us for an excursion to the VIENNA WOODS, the hill chain that surrounds the Austrian capital and that inspired artists throughout the ages. Visit one of Austria's oldest monasteries, "HEILIGENKREUZ," then follow Johann Strauss' Tales from the Vienna Woods as we pass by castles and hear about the stories of times gone by. Learn about the tragic legend of Archduke Rudolph and his mistress before continuing through the Helenen Valley that inspired Ludwig van Beethoven's 9th Symphony. The small city of Baden is ideal for lunch and some time at leisure before returning to Vienna through the vineyards of Lower Austria. (B,L,D)
12
VIENNA. Once the centre of the mighty Habsburg Empire, the city has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your included tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savour each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighbourhood cafe. An optional concert is available during your stay. (B,L,D)
13
MELK - GREIN. Situated in the picturesque Wachau Valley, Melk is home to the magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY that dominates the town and is one of Europe's largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! At the foot of a bluff in the shadow of its castle, Grein's turreted houses on the main square offer excellent photo opportunities. (B,L,D)
14
PASSAU, GERMANY. Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. (B,L,D)
15
REGENSBURG. Regensburg is one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights on your guided tour include the Old Town Hall, and Porta Pretoria-gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria's cultural centres. It is here you will find Germany's oldest restaurant, the 12th-century Historische Wurstkuche (Old Sausage Kitchen). (B,L,D)
16
NUREMBERG. Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses-all explained by a local expert. Nuremberg's traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. After dinner we'll introduce you to some of Germany's FAMOUS BEERS! (B,L,D)
17
BAMBERG. Another beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the Old Town Hall straddling the River Regnitz, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (B,L,D)
18
WURZBURG. Known as the "Pearl of the Romantic Road," Wurzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP'S RESIDENZ is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B,L,D)
19
WERTHEIM - MILTENBERG. Time at leisure this morning in charming Wertheim, situated at the confluence of the Tauber and the Main Rivers. The town is known for its medieval town center, its castle, and its wine. Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and renaissance houses and the gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall. This afternoon, learn how to bake a local SOFT COOKIE specialty. (B,L,D)
20
RUDESHEIM - RHINE GORGE. Visit SIEGFRIED'S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM in pretty Rudesheim. Enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT, then there's free time to explore the Drosselgasse and pick up some souvenirs. The dramatic RHINE GORGE is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs of local beauties lured enchanted sailors to their doom. (B,L,D)
21
COLOGNE, GERMANY. Cologne is one of Germany's largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum located next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kolsch in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of 4711, the original "eau de cologne." (B,L,D)
22
AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND. Holland's delightful 700-year-old capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes. (B,L,D)
23
AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION). Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
CRUISE: Deluxe 21-night cruise from Oltenita to Amsterdam in an outside stateroom with hotel-style beds (Category E) BUCHAREST: Guided sightseeing, see the Parliament Building and visit the National Art Museum OLTENITA: Welcome reception VARNA: Guided sightseeing, visit the National Archaeological Museum VELIKO TARNOVO: Guided sightseeing, visit the Patriarch's Church ARBANASSI: Guided visit of the Ethnographical Museum and the Church of the Nativity IRON GATES: Cruise through the dramatic Iron Gates gorge; see the Trajan Table BELGRADE: Guided sightseeing, visit Kalemegdan Fortress NOVI SAD: Guided sightseeing, see the Petrovaradin Fortress PECS: Orientation KALOCSA: Orientation; organ concert BUDAPEST: Guided sightseeing, visit Fishermen's Bastion VIENNA: Guided sightseeing; excursion to the Vienna Woods, visit Heiligenkreuz Monastery MELK: Guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey GREIN: Guided sightseeing PASSAU: Guided sightseeing REGENSBURG: Guided sightseeing MAIN DANUBE CANAL: Cruise in the canal NUREMBERG: Guided sightseeing; beer tasting BAMBERG: Guided sightseeing, see the Old Town Hall WURZBURG: Guided sightseeing, visit the Bishop's Residenz MILTENBERG: Guided sightseeing; baking demonstration RUDESHEIM: Visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum RHINE GORGE: Cruise in the gorge COLOGNE: Guided sightseeing AMSTERDAM: Canal cruise ON BOARD GRATUITIES: All onboard gratuities for the Cruise Director and Crew are included MEALS: Full buffet breakfast (B) in Bucharest, one lunch (L) during Vienna Woods excursion; superb dining with meals on board featuring full breakfast (B), lunch (L), and dinner (D), including a welcome reception, Captain's reception, and farewell dinner; quality wines from Europe's most famous wine regions with every dinner; one sitting with open seating arrangements. Inside visits and special features are shown in UPPERCASE in the cruise description
Meals Breakfast - 22 Lunch - 20 Dinner - 21
Optional Excursions
To help plan your leisure time, as well as your pre-tour budgeting, here is a list of optional excursions that may be offered on this tour.
Availability is subject to sufficient participation, weather conditions, seasonal suitability, group interests, and general feasibility for your tour. Please note prices may be based on the previous year and are subject to change. Full terms and conditions are contained in the important travel documents.
Cost
Description
42
EUR
Name:DINNER AT BELGRADE'S SKADARLIJA DISTRICT Location:BELGRADE Details:Once the home of many Serbian poets, writers, artists, and actors, the cobble-stoned Skadarlija (or Skadarska) street today hosts some of the best restaurants in town, all of which strive to preserve bohemian traditions from the early 19th century. Definitely the place to go if you want to get a feel of the atmosphere of Belgrade's old times, cruise art galleries, shop for antiques or souvenirs, or taste the best of local food.
49
EUR
Name:ROYAL WALTZ CONCERT Location:VIENNA Details:Would a stay in Vienna be the same if you were not able to listen to the tunes of the "Blue Danube Waltz" or the "Radetzky" March? Your Cruise Director will accompany you to one of Vienna's famous Concert Halls. Avalon will make preferred seating arrangements. In order to celebrate this evening in style, have a glass of sparkling wine in the intermission, before you listen to the famous tunes brought to you by opera singers and watch the elegant ballet dancers as they interpret some of the most well known classical tunes from Vienna.
44
EUR
Name:A VISIT OF SCHONBRUNN IMPERIAL PALACE Location:VIENNA Details:Schonbrunn, the former summer residence of the Imperial family, is considered one of the most beautiful baroque palaces in Europe. The Habsburgs resided here for the better part of the year in numerous rooms to house the large Imperial family in addition to representational rooms. Emperor Franz Joseph, who later married the enchanting Sisi and reigned from 1848 to 1916, was born here in 1830. The monarch spent his last years entirely in the palace, which became the property of the new Republic of Austria only two years after his death. Today, the palace is part of UNESCO's cultural heritage due to its historic importance, its unique grounds and its splendid furnishings. Follow our local expert and visit Empress Sisi's former summer residence, afterwards take your time to stroll through the park or enjoy a demonstration of how the famous Viennese Apple Strudel is made - Samples to taste included.
64
EUR
Name:SALZBURG - MOZART'S SOUND OF MUSIC Location:SALZBURG Details:True, Salzburg is the birth-place of Mozart and you will find the face of the city's most famous son everywhere. Salzburg is also the setting for the Sound of Music movie, which has shaped the city's perception in the minds of generations. But Salzburg is much more. It is a city with history based on the salt trade from the nearby Alpine Mountains, it is a city of beautiful baroque buildings, and a city perched between the mountains and green waters of the Salzach river. It is a city with a long cultural heritage and in the small busy lanes like the "Getreidegasse" with its wrought iron signs you might get a feeling, how busy this city always was. Today we would like to show you Salzburg and its past, we will show you the Austrian Lake district and our local experts will talk about what it takes to be Austrian and to live in this country today.
41
EUR
Name:EXCURSION TO WELTENBURG ABBEY AND THE DANUBE GORGE Location:WELTENBURG Details:The Danube Gorge has both a gentle and a strange beauty. In a magnificent show of force, the Danube has carved its way through the Swabian Alb to create a stunning landscape - a wild, romantic stretch of river with sheer cliffs rising over 300 feet out of the water. At its upper end the Weltenburg Abbey is located on a peninsula directly beneath the cliffs of the Gorge. It was founded by Irish or Scottish monks in 620 and is one of the oldest abbeys in Bavaria. The present Benedictine abbey dates back to the 18th century when it was extensively rebuilt in baroque style. Their ceiling frescos of the Heavenly Jerusalem blend seamlessly with the abbey interior and are particularly noteworthy. Important is also that Weltenburg Abbey houses the oldest abbey brewery in the world, as the monks have been brewing beer since 1050. A beer and a "pretzel" are a welcome refreshment.
39
EUR
Name:EXCURSION TO ROTHENBURG OB DER TAUBER Location:ROTHENBURG Details:The best preserved medieval town in Germany, Rothenburg ob der Tauber fits the word romantic perfectly. Walk the wall that encircles Rothenburg to get various perspectives of architecture in the middle ages (as well as a lot of exercise). Climb to the top of the Rothenburg Town Hall Tower (circa 1250-1400) for a wide-angle view of Rothenburg and surrounding, mostly pastoral countryside. The entire walled town of Rothenburg is a museum. The wall connects five medieval gates complete with guard towers that date from the thirteenth to sixteenth centuries. Just walk along Rothenburg's narrow cobblestone streets and admire the gothic, renaissance, and baroque houses and fountains. You may wish that you had lived in these prettier, quieter, slow times. As well as the attraction of the town itself, Rothenburg offers a complete selection historic restaurants, gothic churches, art exhibits, museums, suits of armor, and great Franken wine, to name only a few.
31
EUR
Name:"KLOMPEN", CHEESE AND PEANUT OIL - ZAANSE SCHANS Location:AMSTERDAM Details:The Zaanse Schans is a delightful old hamlet on the banks of the river Zaan with characteristic green wooden houses, charmingly styled gardens, small hump-backed bridges, tradesmen's workshops, historic windmills and engaging little shops. This enchanting hamlet gives an excellent impression of how a typical village on the Zaan must have looked like in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Join our local expert for a journey through times when Dutch Sailing Ships crossed the seven seas and goods from all corners of the world traded in Holland. Don't miss your chance to see the inside of a working windmill and admire the craftsmanship of its mechanics.
26
EUR
Name:"CAN BUY ME LOVE" - AMSTERDAM'S RED LIGHT DISTRICT Location:AMSTERDAM Details:The Amsterdam Red Light District covers a large area of the oldest part of the city. The buildings are tall, narrow and crowded together, overlooking the tree lined canals. The Amsterdam Red Light District is a beautiful area and the later it gets, the busier it gets. And the darker it gets, the more obvious the glow of the fluorescent red lights above the many windows in the area becomes. (Excursion includes services of a Local Guide; Excursion not suitable for children.)
31
EUR
Name:VOLENDAM - FISHERMAN'S VILLAGE ON THE FORMER ZUIDERZEE. Location:VOLENDAM Details:Legend has it that the Volendam coat of arms is a compliment to the beauty of the Volendam girls! No wonder that a famous singer sang the praise of this characteristic Dutch fishing village in the words: "Anyone who wants to see the real beauty of Holland, goes to Volendam". As a result of its completely insulated location, this village preserved its character for six centuries, also because of the tough vitality of the fishermen. The characteristic small houses, which together with the canals and the drawbridges form the most picturesque spots, present the visitor an atmosphere of geniality and romance.
31
EUR
Name:REMBRANDT & CO - A VISIT TO AMSTERDAM'S RIJKSMUSEUM Location:AMSTERDAM Details:The Masterpieces of Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum offer a unique way to view all the highlights of the Golden Age in one place. Discover with our local experts their interrelationships, thematically or chronologically, discover the stories and view the artworks close-up. The most famous painting at the Rijksmuseum is Rembrandt's Night Watch. A national icon that fires the imagination and is always at the centre of discussion; the painting has been successively analysed, interpreted, praised, abused, damaged and restored; It is, in short, the focus of attention. But what makes this portrait of a group of civic guardsmen so special, apart from being the largest painting that Rembrandt ever made? What is it about, what is its background? Find your answers in this visit to the Rijksmuseum.
31
EUR
Name:SUNFLOWERS & OTHER MASTERPIECES Location:AMSTERDAM Details:A visit to the Van Gogh Museum is a unique experience. The museum contains the largest collection of paintings by Vincent van Gogh in the world. It provides the opportunity to keep track of the artist's developments, or compare his paintings to works by other artists from the 19th century in the collection. The museum also holds an extensive offer of exhibitions on various subjects from 19th century art history. Join your local expert for an introduction to Van Gogh, before you start exploring the collection at your own pace.
Optional Excursions
