Eastern Europe & Balkans Unveiled with Budapest & Turkey: 17 days Budapest to Istanbul

Welcome to Budapest, the Hungarian capital and one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, it was united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two.

You will be staying in a luxury hotel for the next two nights before boarding your 5-star Scenic Space-Ship. This gives you plenty of opportunities to discover Budapest’s legendary nightlife.

Wake in Budapest. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths, housed in colourful, ornate buildings. You’ll have free time to explore the city on your own or explore further afield with two excursions that are exclusive to Scenic.

Scenic Freechoice:
Discover the region on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Beethoven’s favourite getaway – Brunszvik Castle: The snow white Brunsvik Castle is a stunning example of 18th century neo-Gothic architecture surrounded by a sprawling English-style park. Famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven, was a frequent visitor and today the castle houses a Beethoven Memorial Museum.

Etyek region wineries & vineyards: Often called the "vineyard of Budapest", Etyek is renowned for its crisp, aromatic white wines and sparkling wines. Take a tour of a vineyard, learn about the winemaking process and sample local vintages.

This morning, join a local guide to discover the flavours of Hungary on a Hungarian Culinary Market Walk & Tasting Tour. This delicious culinary exploration of Budapest offers an unforgettable journey through the city’s gourmet delights. Visit the Grand Central Market, a treasure trove of Hungarian flavours to sample local specialties and hear fascinating stories.

This afternoon, you’ll board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. Join your fellow guests on the Sun Deck to toast the start of a one-of-a-kind journey.

Arrive in Mohács today. Straddling the Danube, this small Hungarian town holds an outsized position in Hungarian history. It was the site of the 16th century Battle of Mohács, which led to the destruction of the Hungarian monarchy and the rise of Ottoman and Habsburg rule.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore your way with one of these excursions:

Guided tour of Pécs: Located close to the Croatian border, this guided tour will take you to the city’s first telephone exchange which opened in 1885, the Turkish Bath of Pasha Memi which was demolished in the late 19th century but unearthed in the 1970s, and more.

Villány wine stories: The region of Villány is known for its bold red wines. Visit the charming village, where you will learn about everyday life in Hungary then explore historic wine cellars where you can sample local drops.

Mohács traditions and flavours: Experience Mohács, a town where Hungarians, Croats, and Serbs live in unity, sharing rich traditions and multicultural heritage. Visit the Busóudvar Museum to learn about the World Heritage-listed Busójárás festival and taste authentic halászlé, a flavourful stew made with fresh Danube River fish and Hungarian paprika.

Cross the border into Croatia and dock in Vukovar, a historically significant city strategically positioned along the Danube River at the confluence with the Vuka River. Known as ‘The Hero Town,’ it is famed for its historic resilience, especially its fierce defence during the Croatian War of Independence in the early 1990s, which left a lasting mark on its landscape and collective memory.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities:

Walking tour of Osijek: Take a guided walking tour of nearby Osijek. This small city has a turbulent history and many of the grand Baroque buildings in the Old Town bear the scars of war. You’ll also have the opportunity to hear some traditional and classical music popular in the region.

Baranja wine region: In this picturesque region straddling Croatia and Hungary, explore a rich wine-making tradition and picturesque vineyards. Enjoy a tasting experience blending bold notes, local culture and breathtaking landscapes.

Vukovar chronicles - A river town’s tale of resilience: With roots dating back to medieval times, Vukovar was historically a vibrant trade and industrial centre. Though heavily damaged by war, the city has been rebuilt. On this tour, discover Vukovar’s spirit of resilience and stories of bravery that remain central to the city’s character, with museums and monuments preserving its legacy of sacrifice and hope.

After this morning’s excursions, visit the home of a local Croatian family and join them for lunch. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience, and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host’s garden.

The capital of Serbia, Belgrade is known as the ‘Door to Central Europe’ and lies at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This eclectic city is steeped in history and Brutalist and Art Nouveau buildings. It’s one of the oldest capitals in Europe and has stood at the crossroads between the Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires for centuries. Thanks to these centuries of conflict, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times.

Scenic Freechoice:
Explore the city today one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Tour of Belgrade: Explore the iconic sites of the city with your local guide. You will admire highlights such as the cobbled streets of the Bohemian Quarter and Kalemegdan Fortress. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore Belgrade on your own.

Panoramic tour of Belgrade with Tito’s Memorial: Join a panoramic tour of Belgrade with a local guide. See and learn about the major sites of the city including the Ottoman heritage of the Old Town and visit the memorial dedicated to Tito, the former ruler of Yugoslavia.

Cycling tour along the Danube: Trace the banks of the Danube on two wheels with a guided cycling tour. During the 16 kilometre ride, you’ll learn about the history of Yugoslavia and Belgrade, and see the Belgrade waterfront, Staro Sajmište (former concentration camp), and Ada Island.

Central Belgrade stroll with coffee and cake: Starting from the historic Kalemegdan Fortress, then wander down Knez Mihailova Street, Belgrade's bustling pedestrian boulevard, lined with charming shops and cafes. Pause to enjoy a cup of expertly brewed coffee paired with a signature cake from one of the city's beloved bakeries.

This afternoon, you’re free to explore Belgrade further. You might like to soak up the bohemian culture with a wander along the cobblestoned Skardalija Street, a district once frequented by writers and artists and other creative souls, now home to traditional restaurants, local stores and galleries.

Scenic Enrich
Concert in the Crypt of St. Sava Church: Visit St. Sava Temple, the largest orthodox temple in the Balkans. Admire the fresco-lined walls of the cathedral’s crypt where the church choir will perform some of the most beautiful hymns just for you. The crypt’s remarkable acoustics make this a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, as white marble adorns the remarkable ceilings.

Today you’ll cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Djerdap Gorge system, known as Iron Gates. This stretch of the Danube is the natural border between Serbia and Romania, and features four narrow gorges, soaring cliffs and the mighty rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king.

Spend some time relaxing in your suite, many of which feature a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Danube. Perhaps head to the Sun Deck or mingle with other guests in the Panorama Lounge & Bar.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in the Bulgarian town of Svishtov today. Here you will have the choice to disembark and take an excursion to Veliko Tarnovo, known as the ‘City of the Kings’, or stay on board and cruise towards Rousse.

Scenic Freechoice:
Discover more on one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Excursion to Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanassi: Take a full day excursion from Svishtov to Veliko Tarnovo, one of Bulgaria’s oldest towns. Enjoy the panoramic views of the old town and see the Asenevtsi Brothers Monument. You will then venture to the nearby leafy village of Arbanassi.

Walking tour of Rousse: Stay on board your Scenic Space-Ship and enjoy a relaxing cruise to Rousse. Upon arrival join a local guide for a sightseeing tour of this opulent town where you will learn about traditional Bulgarian handicrafts, sample some delicious local wine and delight in a short piano recital.

Arrive in Silistra today. This Bulgarian town has changed hands many times over the centuries. A major Turkish fortress and trade centre in the 15th century, it played a significant role in the Russo-Turkish wars of the 1870s, briefly became part of Romania after the second Balkan War and finally reverted to Bulgaria in 1940. The town is dotted with historic sites stretching back to late Roman times.

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose from the following Scenic Freechoice activities:

Active walk to Silistra Fort: Take an active guided walking tour of the 19th century fort and learn about its history. It is the best preserved of the six points of the Turkish fortification system.

Visit Alfatar village: This exclusive excursion takes you to the small village of Alfatar, located just outside of Silistra. Visit the ethnographic museum featuring a typical country house, see customary attire and visit the Alfatar school to meet local children with a charming choir performance and learn about daily life for young Bulgarians. This unique experience available only to Scenic guests.

Sveshtari Thracian secrets and local delights: Discover the rich heritage and flavours of Bulgaria on this unique guided tour. Explore the ancient Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari, a World Heritage site, then visit local producers of exquisite brandy and artisanal cheese for a tasting.

This morning, farewell your Scenic Space-Ship and transfer to Bucharest. WWII changed the face of the Romanian capital with much of its Art Nouveau and Art Deco architecture destroyed. Now a unique mix of Art Nouveau remnants and Brutalist-era architecture sit alongside wide, tree lined boulevards and leafy squares, hidden street art and thriving nightlife.

Upon arrival, take an orientation tour of the city by coach, from the south of Bucharest to Primaverii Palace stopping to see its squares, including Union Square, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square and Charles de Gaulle Square.

Scenic Freechoice:
After the city tour, personalise the rest of your morning with the following Scenic Freechoice activities.

Ceausescu’s Spring Palace: Located in one of the wealthiest districts in Bucharest, this 1960s residence is made up of 80 distinctive and elegant rooms decorated with silk wallpaper, wood panels, paintings by famous Romanian painters, mosaics, marble, chandeliers and mirrors made of Murano glass.

Village Open Air Museum: Explore the ethnography exhibits depicting Romanian heritage and culture at the Village Open Air Museum. The museum depicts authentic houses, barns, churches, and more, rebuilt by craftsmen using traditional techniques.

Afterwards, head to your luxury hotel before dining with your fellow guests.

This morning sees you setting off from Bucharest on an included flight to Istanbul. Home to more than 15 million people, it’s the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Istanbul will inspire all your senses. It’s an exhilarating blend of cultures, cuisines, architecture, history and style.

There have been settlements in what is now Istanbul, occupying both banks of the Bosphorus Strait, for thousands of years. The modern city began life as Constantinople in the 4th century, before changing its name to Istanbul in 1930. Wherever you go, you’re walking through history. On a guided tour today, you’ll see two of the city’s most famous landmarks, Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, sitting on either side of the central Sultanahmet Park, and visit the city’s grandest royal residence, Topkapi Palace. 

Today, you’ll leave Istanbul behind and visit the city of Çanakkale. Sitting on the edge of the Dardanelles Strait, Çanakkale has been at the forefront of history for centuries. It’s the gateway to the World War I battlefield of Gallipoli and the ancient city of Troy. Enjoy a ferry journey along this storied waterway.

Tonight, why not make the most of your evening at leisure and join the locals along the waterfront promenade to get a taste of modern Turkish culture.

Today you are bound for Gallipoli. The Gallipoli peninsula where the eight-month WWI campaign took place is now a national park, and your guide will take you through the most significant sites. Stand on the beach at ANZAC Cove, where the soldiers first came to shore on 25 April 1915. Contemplate the courage and sacrifice that took place at Lone Pine, the Nek, and Shrapnel Valley.

Walk through some of the 31 cemeteries that dot the peninsula, including the Chanuk Bair Memorial dedicated to New Zealand troops, and see the Cape Helles Memorial, which stands as a monument to those whose remains still lie on the battlefield. You’ll also enjoy a picnic lunch at a picturesque spot. Visiting Gallipoli is a moving experience that will stay with you long after you leave.

This morning you’ll be venturing to a place that is shrouded in mystery and legend, the ancient city of Troy. For more than 3,000 years, the tales of Troy and the Trojan War were thought to be mythical, made most famous by Homer’s Iliad. However, in the late 19th century, the ruins of Troy were discovered in modern day Turkey and centuries of history were instantly rewritten. Take a tour through the 4,000 year old ruins, see a giant replica of the famous Trojan Horse, and learn the true story behind this illustrious city.

Afterwards, return to Istanbul.

Today, learn more about Turkish culture and traditions in bustling Istanbul. 

Scenic Freechoice:
Choose how to spend your morning with today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:

The tastes of Turkey: Turkish cuisine brings together Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, Central Asian and Eastern European flavours. Learn its secrets in a cooking class where you’ll learn to make delicious traditional dishes.

Grand Bazaar: Visit the colourful and chaotic Grand Bazaar, a vast undercover market made up of thousands of shops along wide plazas and tiny laneways. Peruse the stalls and afterwards join your local guide for a traditional Turkish coffee from a local vendor.

Scenic Enrich
Cruise on the Bosphorus & Farewell Dinner: Istanbul straddles the Bosphorus Strait. This strategic waterway has played a major role in world trade for centuries and is still one of the most important global shipping routes. This evening, you’ll cruise along the strait, winding between ferries and fishing boats and passing famous monuments and historic minarets. Then return to shore for a farewell dinner on exceptional Turkish cuisine as you raise a glass to an unforgettable journey.

Before you farewell Istanbul, perhaps take a seat at a cafe early this morning to enjoy a final cup of traditional Turkish coffee. Watch the busy city come to life as you reflect on your journey through this fascinating nation.

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport. 

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.