Category: Balkan States

Treasures of the Balkans & Transylvania

Balkan States, Belgrade, Brasov, Bucharest, Budapest, Bulgaria, Cluj-Napoca, Europe, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Sofia, Veliko Tarnovo

Discover the treasures of the Balkans on this adventure that starts in Budapest, the lively city on the Danube. Guided sightseeing introduces you to the highlights, including the Royal Castle, Parliament, and Fishermen’s Bastion. Next, head south through ever-changing landscapes to Novi Sad, famous for its citadel, then Serbia’s capital of Belgrade and the breathtaking gorges leading into Bulgaria. Explore Sofia with its ornate orthodox churches; visit Rila Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and explore Plovdiv’s charming Old Town and Roman Amphitheater. Continue to medieval Veliko Târnovo and Arbanassi before arriving in beautiful Bucharest, Romania, for two overnights. On to the picturesque mountains, fortified villages, and castles of Transylvania. Visit Sinaia Monastery and Bran Castle, the medieval dwelling of legendary Count Dracula. Enjoy additional stops in enchanting Sighisoara and Cluj-Napoca, and return to Budapest for the final overnight on this outstanding holiday.

Planning your holiday is easy, and speak to your friendly Consultant.

Day 01: Arrive In Budapest, Hungary

Check into your hotel. Take advantage of the CosmosGO app to visit Budapest at leisure. in the early evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers.

Hotel: Ibis Styles City West, 2 nights

Day 02: Budapest

Budapest is a treasure trove of architectural wonders, from Gothic to Baroque; Neoclassical to Art Nouveau, but also full of history, a food capital, and surprisingly rich in thermal waters. Discover all of this and more during the guided city tour.

Day 03: Budapest – Novi Sad, Serbia – Belgrade

Travel to Serbia. Stop in Novi Sad, capital of the province, situated on the Danube River and famous for its Petrovaradin Citadel, the fortress known in the west as the “Gibraltar of the Danube.” Continue to Belgrade, and discover the capital of Serbia on a guided city sightseeing tour.

Hotel: Best Western Hotel

Day 04: Belgrade – Sofia, Bulgaria

Cross the border into Bulgaria to arrive in the capital city of Sofia. Join a Local Guide for a city tour that includes the Parliament building, Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, Bojana Church, a medieval Bulgarian orthodox church listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the National Theatre, and St. Sofia Church.

Hotel: Crystal Palace, 2 nights

Day 05: Sofia – Excursion to Rila Monastery

This morning, discover Rila Monastery with its colourful frescoes, located inside a nature park. its checkered history goes back to ivan Rilski, a hermit who founded it in 927. During the long Turkish rule over the country, the monastery became a beacon of Bulgarian culture. Return to Sofia.

Day 06: Sofia – Plovdiv – Veliko Tarnovo

Head eastwards to Plovdiv, Bulgaria’s second-largest city, located along the banks of the Maritsa River. Stop here to visit the charming Old Town and the ROMAN Amphitheatre. Journey northwards through fine scenery over the Stara Planina Mountains to Veliko Tarnovo.

Hotel: Yantra Grand Hotel

Day 07: Veliko Tarnovo – Bucharest, Romania

Today, time to see some of the highlights of Veliko Tarnovo, located on the Yantra River. During the Middle Ages, it was Bulgaria’s capital and it still retains some of its most attractive medieval features. Visit nearby Arbanassi, world famous for its house design, a cross between a dwelling and a fortress. The village is known as an architectural and historic reserve and was at one time the summer residence of Bulgarian kings. One of the highlights of the visit is the Church Of The Nativity, built in 1637. Carry on north to Rousse and cross the Danube to reach Bucharest.

Hotel: Pullman, 2 nights

Day 08: Bucharest

Flower-festooned parks, gardens, and wide boulevards shaded by century-old trees contribute to Bucharest’s beauty. The highlight of your sightseeing tour is a visit to the open-air Village Museum, a unique collection of traditional farmhouses, cottages, windmills, watermills, and artisans’ workshops from all parts of the country. Your Local Guide will show you other places of interest, including the Government Victoria Palace, the Royal Palace, and the Savings Palace. There is also an optional afternoon visit to the massive Romanian Parliament, known as the “House of the People”.

Day 09: Bucharest – Sinaia – Brasov

Travel to Sinaia in the Prahova Valley. This is a lovely ski resort, almost 3,300 feet above sea level. While in Sinaia, there will be time to visit the Sinaia Monastery and Peles Castle, considered among the most romantic castles in the world. Only a few more miles and you reach Brasov, a lovely medieval town famous for its town square filled with baroque architecture and outdoor cafes.

Hotel: Aro Palace, 2 nights

Day 10: Brasov

This morning, depart for Bran and visit its legendary Castle, built in 1377 and inhabited by Vlad the impaler-better known as Dracula. in the afternoon, a walking orientation of the Old Town of Brasov includes a visit to the Black Church, followed by leisure time.

Day 11: Brasov – Sighisoara – Cluj-Napoca

Stop in Sighisoara, a medieval town with 11 towers within the city walls that surround cobblestone streets, ancient houses, and churches-one of Romania’s prettiest towns. Legend has it that it is also the birthplace of the notorious Vlad (Dracula). Continue to Cluj-Napoca, the film capital of Romania.

Hotel: Golden Tulip Ana Dome

Day 12: Cluj-Napoca – Budapest, Hungary

Cross the border at Oradea into Hungary and return to Budapest.

Hotel: Ibis Styles City West

Day 13: Budapest

Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning.

2020 Dates & PricesTwin ShareSolo Traveller
April: 14$2,739.00$3,603.00
April: 21$2,809.00$3,673.00
April: 28$2,909.00$3,773.00
May: 05, 12, 26$2,909.00$3,773.00
June: 02, 09$2,979.00$3,843.00
June: 23$3,029.00$3,893.00
July: 14$2,939.00$3,803.00
July: 21$2,879.00$3,743.00
August: 04, 11, 18$2,879.00$3,743.00
August: 25$2,939.00$3,803.00
September: 01, 08, 15$2,909.00$3,773.00
September: 22$2,809.00$3,673.00
September: 29$2,739.00$3,603.00
Inclusions 
Meals: 12 breakfasts, 4 dinners
Transport:Deluxe air-conditioned motorcoach while touring
Accommodation: 12 nights accommodation
Guide:An expert Tour Director and separate Driver.
Local Guides for city Sightseeing in Budapest, Sofia, Bucharest & Peles Castle
Entrance Fees & Touring:Entrance fees & activities as per itinerary

* Tour departure dates are subject to availability at time of booking.
* Prices and itinerary are correct at time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

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Eastern Capitals & The Dalmatian Riviera

Austria, Balkan States, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Dubrovnik, Europe, Kotor, Ljubljana, Montenegro, Plitvice National Park, Sarajevo, Slovenia, Vienna, Zagreb

From Imperial Vienna, join those in the know who are heading for the sun-drenched islands of Dalmatia. Embark on a journey to areas of stunning natural beauty and historical significance.

Planning your holiday is easy, and speak to your friendly Consultant.

Day 1: Welcome to Vienna

On arrival at Vienna airport, your transfer will leave for your hotel at 10:00, 13:00 or 15:30. Join your Travel Director at 17:30 for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant and enjoy a pleasant evening of dinner and wine.

Hotel: Hilton Vienna, 2 nights

Day 2: Vienna

Join a Local Expert for a private tour of Maria Theresa’s Schönbrunn Palace and explore its formal gardens at your pace. Then get your camera ready for a drive around the famous Ring Road. Built along the lines of the old city walls, it showcases many of the capital’s architectural highlights, including the Opera House, Hofburg Imperial Residence, the Austrian Parliament Building and Karlskirche. The rest of the day is at your leisure to continuing exploring.

Day 3: Maribor and Ljubljana

In the morning, cross the border into Slovenia and journey to its second largest city, Maribor. After spending time in this charming location, head to the beloved city of Ljubljana.

Hotel: Hotel Lev Ljubljana, 2 nights

Day 4: Exploring Lovable Ljubljana

Your Local Expert will reveal the Baroque elegance of the Slovenian capital. The medieval castle stands as an ancient guardian, the City Hall and Cathedral of St. Nicholas testify to its historical importance, while the Triple Bridge spans the river adorned with cafes and restaurants. Spend time in the glorious Central Market, rich with the heady aromas of fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, meat and spices. Your Local Expert will share insights into some of the Slovenian delicacies on display and regales you with a tasting of a local specialty. The rest of the afternoon is at your leisure. In the evening, choose from a hand-picked selection of local restaurants for your Dine-Around Evening.

Day 5: Zagreb’s Twin Towns

Journey into Croatia where on arrival in Zagreb, you meet your Local Expert for an exploration of this capital. Donji Grad, the Lower Town, is devoted to business, art and spacious parks, where streets are wide and airy and the layout is designed to give a sense of grandeur. See the Mimara Art Museum in Roosevelt Square and continue to Ban Josip Jelacic Square en route to the cathedral. The medieval Upper Town, is a network of little streets, stretching between the Kaptol and Gradec hills. View the former Presidential Palace, Stone Gate, St. Mark’s Church and the Lotrščak Tower.

Hotel: Sheraton Zagreb Hotel, 2 nights

Day 6: Zagreb

A free day to relax and enjoy a city that is bursting with culture. Perhaps spend time exploring one of the many museums or browsing the shops in Donji Grad? Maybe try the local cuisine in one of Zagreb’s interesting restaurants or cafes or join an Optional Experience to the charming village of Kumrovec and meet a local to hear their perspective on the region’s history?

Day 7: On to Plitvice National Park

Journey south to visit one of Europe’s great natural wonders. Your Local Expert will lead you through zig-zagging timber footbridges and the crystal blue-green beauty of Plitvice National Park, a scenic wonderland of 16 interconnected lakes, flanked by waterfalls and primeval forest. See Veliki Slap, the highest waterfall in the park for spectacular panoramic views. Spend the evening in your boutique hotel, perfectly located close to the Plitvice Lakes National Park.

Hotel: Hotel Lyra

Day 8: Along the Dalmatian Coast

The green forests give way to pebble-dashed shores lapped by turquoise waters as you travel to Trogir, a historic town founded by the Greeks 2300 years ago. Admire the cathedral and Renaissance Cipiko Palace, before continuing to the historic port of Split. The Roman Emperor Diocletian built his palace here, and today it forms the heart of the Old Town of Split. With your Local Expert, explore the 1,700 year-old palace cellars, and learn the story of the infamous emperor. Continue through the labyrinthine streets and arcaded squares to see St. Duje’s- originally Diocletian’s Mausoleum, and the Temple of Jupiter, which today is a baptistery, as well as the Golden Gate. Your exploration then continues underground as you are guided through the cellars. In the evening, don’t miss the opportunity to dine like a true local at a traditional Konoba.

Hotel: Hotel President Solin, 2 nights

Day 9: Split

Always buzzing, this lively city has just the right balance of tradition and modernity. See Dalmatian life as it’s really lived with a full day free to explore Split and its surroundings. Why not join an Optional Experience to discover the beautiful Dalmatian island, Hvar? Explore the historic Old Town with your Local Expert before having free time to relax by the seafront or admire the stunning views from the hilltop fortress.

Day 10: Mostar to Sarajevo

In the morning, cross the border into Bosnia and Herzegovina to Mostar. During your guided walking exploration with your Local Expert, see the famous Stari Most, or Old Bridge, reconstructed after being almost completely destroyed during the Croat–Bosniak War. The cobbled old town stretches on both sides of the bridge and is filled with shops selling Turkish-style souvenirs. Continue to Sarajevo, a town with a turbulent past – in 1914 it was the site of the assassination that sparked World War I and more recently, it endured the longest siege in modern military history. Follow the scenic route to Sarajevo for a unique and rewarding insight into the local way of life as you are invited into a Sarajevan family home for a dinner with drinks. Savour the warm hospitality and authentic cuisine as you hear inspirational stories about their culture and experience the local culture.

Hotel: Swissotel Sarajevo, 2 nights

Day 11: Sarajevo, the City of Culture

Morning sightseeing with a Local Expert introduces you to the Sarajevo War Tunnels Museum, housing part of the secret tunnel that was the city’s lifeline during the Bosnian war. Talk to one of the survivors, for whom the siege of Sarajevo remains a defining moment in their life. You will also see the Latin Bridge where Austrian Crown Prince, Franz Ferdinand, was assassinated. Continue to Baščaršija, the cobbled old town market where Sarajevo was founded by the Ottomans in the 15th century. In the afternoon, enjoy time at your leisure.

Day 12: Medjugorje and Dubrovnik

In the morning, travel south to stop at the small town of Medjugorje, made famous by six children who claim to have seen visions of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Cross the border back into Croatia and journey to the walled town of Dubrovnik. On arrival, join your Local Expert to explore the stone-paved streets inside the 16th century bastions of the old town. See Onofrio’s Fountain and the Rector’s Palace and the Franciscan and Dominican monasteries.

Hotel: Hotel Croatia Cavtat, 2 nights

Day 13: Dubrovnik – Optional Montenegro Experience

In the morning, why not visit Montenegro? This Optional Experience travels to Kotor, where your camera can capture one of the most beautiful parts of the bay as you learn the history of the area, before returning to Dubrovnik with a short cruise. As the sun begins to set, and should the weather permit, join your fellow travel companions as you sit back and enjoy a relaxing cruise around the fabled bay of Dubrovnik. Admire the most important feature of the city, the mighty city walls rising straight from the cliffs, perfectly-preserved from the Middle Ages, before your cruise moors in the Old Town Harbour. Later, enjoy a Celebration Dinner of typical Dalmatian Coast cuisine, washed down with local drinks – wine and grappa being the most famous.

Day 14: Depart Dubrovnik

Your travels draw to a close after breakfast. Departure transfers arrive at Dubrovnik airport at 05:00, 09:00 and 11:30.

2020 Dates & PricesTwin ShareSolo Traveller
April: 26$5,025.00 Price on Application
May: 10$5,195.00 Price on Application
May: 24$5,225.00 Price on Application
June: 07$5,250.00 Price on Application
June: 21$5,325.00 Price on Application
July: 05, 12, 26$5,375.00Price on Application
August: 09, 23$5,375.00Price on Application
September: 06, 20$5,395.00Price on Application
October: 04$5,250.00Price on Application

Inclusions 
Meals: 13 breakfasts, 6 dinners
Transport: Airport Transfers &Luxury air-conditioned motor-coach while touring
Accommodation: 13 nights accommodation
Guide: An expert Tour Director and separate Driver.
Entrance Fees & Touring:Entrance fees & activities as per itinerary

* Tour departure dates are subject to availability at time of booking.
* Prices and itinerary are correct at time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

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Best of Finland, Russia & The Baltic States

Balkan States, Estonia, Europe, Finland, Helsinki, Latvia, Lithuania, Moscow, Riga, Russia, Scandinavia, St Petersburg, Tallinn, Vilnius

Explore the rare Baltic gems of Lithuania, Estonia, Latvia and Belarus along the seaway from Helsinki to St. Petersburg for fascinating insights into the heritage of the Tsars and days spent seeing the magnificent sights of Moscow. You will also wander through the ancient capitals of Riga, Vilnius and Minsk. See the beautifully preserved streets of Tallinn’s Hanseatic Quarter.

Planning your holiday is easy, and speak to your friendly Consultant.

Day 1: Arrive Helsinki

Welcome to Helsinki, the cool capital of Finland, whose sophisticated streets and laidback atmosphere are yours to enjoy, before meeting your Travel Director and fellow travel companions for an orientation drive to see the city’s iconic sights followed by a Welcome Reception.

Hotel: Scandic Grand Marina

Day 2: Helsinki – St. Petersburg

Follow the beautiful shoreline along the Gulf of Finland, crossing the border into Russia. We journey through the lush forests of Karelia to the imperial city of St. Petersburg – our home for the next three nights. You will have the option of admiring the ‘Venice of the North’, taking to its waters and navigating the city’s canals by boat, or perhaps indulge in the delicious flavours of a traditional pie at the Stolle bakery, while you wander through the city’s narrow lanes and grand boulevards this evening. This evening, we dine at our hotel.

Hotel: Solo Sokos Vasilievsky, 3 nights

Day 3: St. Petersburg Sightseeing & Hermitage Museum Visit

Join a ‘Local Specialist’ this morning to explore the city’s iconic sights including the Tsar’s Winter Palace, Nevsky Prospekt, St. Isaac’s Cathedral and the Statue of Peter the Great, whose inspired vision for this city saw it evolve into an elegant metropolis to rival even the most sophisticated of European capitals. Then visit the Peter and Paul Fortress, built to protect the city against invading forces in the 18th century, and the spectacular Hermitage Museum to see one of the world’s largest and most valuable art collections. Admire the exquisite works of da Vinci, Rembrandt and Vermeer which hang proudly on its magnificent Baroque and Rococo walls.

Day 4: St. Petersburg Free Day

Spend the day exploring St. Petersburg, admiring the ornate golden domes and colourful mosaics of cathedrals and churches. Consider joining an Optional Experience to a high-energy Russian folklore show.

Day 5: St. Petersburg – High-Speed Train – Moscow

Board a high-speed Sapsan train that will take you across the vast Russian landscape to the capital city. Delve into the tumultuous and captivating history of Moscow, an ancient city that oozes grandeur. This evening, we dine at our hotel.

Hotel: Azimut Olympic, 3 nights

Day 6: Moscow Sightseeing

Join a ‘Local Specialist’ for a sightseeing tour of the imposing Red Square – the site of grand celebrations, fierce fighting and beautiful architecture. See the domes of St. Basil’s Cathedral, before venturing beyond the red walls of the Kremlin for a memorable visit to the seat of Russian power.

Day 7: Moscow Free Day

Immerse yourself in the kofe culture of Moscow, before taking to its streets to learn about the city’s triumphs and defeats. You have a full day at leisure to explore the sights. Stroll along the flower-lined boulevards of Gorky Park, admire the exquisite underground art and history showcase that is the Moscow Metro, or consider an Optional Experience to the Tsar’s Treasury Chamber or St. Sergius Monastery and its handicraft market.

Day 8: Moscow – Minsk

Follow in the footsteps of Napoleon’s retreating army of 1812, passing near the ‘bloody battlefields’ of Borodino, before stopping for a lunch in the Smolensk region. We cross the border and journey to Minsk, the cosmopolitan capital of Belarus and our home for the next two nights. This evening we dine on traditional cuisine at our hotel. Later, consider visiting the Old Town and indulging in the honey flavours of the local medovukha drink.

Hotel: Crowne Plaza, 2 nights

Day 9: Minsk Sightseeing and Free Time

This morning, we join our ‘Local Specialist’ to see the iconic sights of Minsk, including the Hero City Memorial, built to commemorate the city’s status as one of the Hero Cities of the former Soviet Union. Consider a visit to the Saint Elizabeth Convent during your free afternoon to see its beautiful stained glass and religious icon workshop. This evening, ‘Connect With Locals’ and join Anatolij and his family in their Belarus farmstead for a traditional ‘Be My Guest’ dinner. Enjoy rousing accordion choruses and, of course, a few shots.

Day 10: Minsk – Vilnius Sightseeing and Free Time

We journey west and cross the border into Lithuania, arriving later in the capital Vilnius, renowned for its beautiful Baroque façades. Join a ‘Local Specialist’ on a leisurely tour past the city’s iconic sights. See the Bishop’s Palace and the University, the oldest university in the Baltics, founded in 1579. Explore the 17th-century Baroque Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, built on the site of a temple to the pagan goddess of love. Walk to the Gates of Dawn, the Carmelite Church of St. Theresa and former Jewish Ghetto, passing the Cathedral on the way.

Hotel: Courtyard by Marriott City Center

Day 11: Vilnius – Siauliai – Riga

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Vilnius, departing the city after lunch. Our first stop is the extraordinary Hill of Crosses at Siauliai. This site features thousands of crosses, each mysteriously claiming its place since the mid-19th century. We arrive in the ancient city of Riga later, where we will spend the next two nights. This evening, after dinner, maybe take to the streets to explore the Latvian capital’s inspiring Gothic spires.

Hotel: Mercure Centre, 2 nights

Day 12: Riga Sightseeing and Free Time

Stroll through the winding medieval streets of Riga’s UNESCO-listed Old Town – with one of the world’s finest collections of Art Nouveau buildings and a Hanseatic trade history we will have an opportunity to explore during a sightseeing and walking tour with a ‘Local Specialist’. Spend the rest of the day discovering the sights on your terms. Admire the skyline from the comfort of a canal boat, view the 14th-century House of the Blackheads or indulge in the herbal flavours of the city’s favourite Black Balsam at a traditional city tavern – the choice is yours.

Day 13: Riga – Tallinn Sightseeing and Free Time

We follow the Gulf of Riga north into Estonia, and travel via Parnu, a popular beach resort for Tallinn residents. Explore the beautifully preserved streets of Tallinn’s old Hanseatic Quarter with a ‘Local Specialist’. See its 15th-century Luhike Jalg Gate and visit the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral, a symbol of Russian power, with its magnificent gold-plated dome.

Hotel: Nordic Forum

Day 14: Tallinn – Helsinki Sightseeing and Free Time

We board a ferry this morning, crossing the Baltic Sea to Helsinki where we’ll meet a ‘Local Specialist’ for a sightseeing tour past the modern marble façades of Finlandia Hall, the Senate and Market Squares, and the café-lined Esplanadi. This evening, we toast to an unforgettable northern adventure, joining our fellow travellers for a special Farewell Dinner.

Hotel: Clarion

Day 15: Depart Helsinki

Our time together has come to an end. We say a fond farewell to newfound friends at the end of a memorable trip.

2020 Dates & PricesTwin ShareTwin Share
April: 19$5,195.00$6,535.00
April: 26$5,225.00$6,565.00
May: 03, 10$5,225.00$6,565.00
May: 17, 24, 31$5,425.00$6,965.00
June: 07$5,425.00$6,765.00
June: 14, 21$5,450.00$6,790.00
June: 28$5,425.00$6,965.00
July: 05, 12$5,425.00$6,965.00
July: 19, 26$5,225.00$6,565.00
August: 02, 09, 16, 23, 30$5,225.00$6,565.00
September: 06, 13, 20, 27$5,225.00$6,565.00

Inclusions 
Meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 7 dinners
Transport: Luxury air-conditioned coach
Rail:High Speed Rail Ticket : St. Petersburg – Moscow
Ferry:Ferry Ticket: Tallinn - Helsinki
Accommodation: 14 nights accommodation
Guide: An expert Travel Director and separate Driver
Entrance Fees & Touring:Entrance fees & activities as per itinerary

* Tour departure dates are subject to availability at time of booking.
* Prices and itinerary are correct at time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

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Europe

APT River Cruises, Balkan States, Burma, Cambodia, China, Europe, France, Germany, Holland, Multi Countries, Myanmar, Netherlands, River Cruise, Vietnam
Tour TypeTrip NameNo. DaysTour DetailsPrices
CruiseMagnificent Europe15 On Application From $7,295.00
CruiseDouro Delights11 On ApplicationContact Us
CruiseParis to Bordeaux11On Application From $8,595.00

Magnificent Europe – Amsterdam to Budapest

On APT’s 15 Day Magnificent Europe River Cruise, glide from Amsterdam through five countries to Budapest. From mighty rivers to superbly engineered canals and stream-like waters that wind through tranquil valleys, APT has left no course uncharted in creating their outstanding range of unforgettable river cruises. Fine dining, incredible sightseeing, the highest levels of personal attention, stunning accommodation; they’ve considered – and included – every last detail. Even if you have visited Europe before, nothing quite compares to the new experiences and fresh perspectives awaiting you on a river cruise with APT. Offering an unrivaled way to discover Europe and designed specifically for Australians, you’ll enjoy the dedicated services of an APT Cruise Tour Director, all sightseeing experiences, a range of complimentary onboard beverages and many inclusions.

Itinerary  
Day 1: Arrive Amsterdam, Embark ShipBe met on arrival and transferred to your ship before a Welcome Reception tonight.
14 Night Stay: one of APT's luxurious Aria or Concerto river ships.
Day 2: AmsterdamChoose from two activities today. Perhaps cruise Amsterdam's canals aboard a glass-top boat or visit Zaanse Schans. Tonight. attend a Gala Welcome Dinner.
Day 3: Cologne, Bonn, AndernachBe joined by a local guide for a tour around the historic city of Cologne or travel to Bonn for a tour. Later, explore Namedy Castle, before sitting down to a lavish banquet held in ballroom.
Day 4: RüdesheimVisit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or ride a gondola for panoramic views over the Rhine Valley.
Day 5: MiltenbergArrive in Miltenberg and stroll along the winding cobblestone lanes, explore quint half-timbered shops, mingle with friendly residents and sample delicious local fare.
Day 6: WürzburgThe architectural beauty of Würzburg is on show as you stroll through the city to Würzburg Residence. Or, travel along the Romantic Road to medieval Rothenburg for an enthralling tour.
Day 7: BambergExplore Bamberg's World Heritage-listed Old Town with a guide to discover a range of historic churches and buildings.
Day 8: NurembergDelve into Nuremberg's history on a city tour that includes a selection of World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds
Day 9: RegensburgWalk the lovely streets of Regensburg with a local expert guide today.
Day 10: Passau, Salzburg, LinzTake an exquisite rail journey aboard the Magestic Imperator to Salzburg today. On board your privately chartered train, relax amid luxurious surrounds and savour refreshments while you wind your way through graceful alpine countryside.
Day 11: Melk, DürnsteinTour Melk Abbey, one of the world's most famous monastic sites, or enjoy a walking tour through the town. Then, either ride a bicycle or cruise to Dürnstein.
Day 12: ViennaSoak up the elegance of the city during a guided tour. See the exquisite Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral and much more. After dinner, head to the City Palace and attend an exclusive Cocktail Reception and a private concert featuring members of the Mozart Boys' Choir.
Day 13: ViennaPerhaps tour Schönbrunn Palace, join an excursion to Bratislava or visit the Spanish Riding School to see the Lipizzan horses
Day 14: BudapestJoin a local guide for a tour of Budapest. Among many highlights, you'll see Heroes' Square and superb Fisherman's Bastion. This evening, set off on a twilight cruise.
Day 15: Disembark Ship, Depart BudapestDisembark and transfer to the airport.
INCLUSIONS:
14 Night Cruise, Expert APT Cruise Director, touring, all main meals on board, range of beverages, transfers, port charges, tipping

Douro Delights

  

Itinerary  
Day 1: Arrive Porto, Embark ShipBe met on arrival and transferred to your ship before a Welcome Dinner this evening.

Stay: Seven Nights: the stylish MS AmaVida
Day 2: PortoOn a tour, explore Porto’s Old Town and delight in its 16th-century buildings and Baroque churches. See the iron bridge built by French engineer Gustave Eiffel then enjoy a tasting at a local port house in Gaia.
Day 3: Porto, Guimarães, Entre-Os-RiosTake a morning excursion to the World Heritage-listed city of Guimarães, an authentic and well-preserved showcase of the evolution of medieval settlement, as well as 15th to 19th-century architecture. Back on board, enjoy some scenic cruising through the Douro Valley en route to Entre-Os-Rios. Visit Casa de Vila Verde estate in the Sousa Valley wine region, famous for producing Vinho Verde since the 17th century. Enjoy a tour of the manor, followed by a tasting of their famous wine before dinner.
Day 4: Caldas de Aregos, RéguaDock in Caldas de Aregos and travel to Quinta da Aveleda, a family business that has been producing wine in the Douro region since the 1870s. Explore the estate on a tour, followed by a tasting. Delight in the beauty of this sun-drenched region as you cruise to Régua, where you’ll visit the Douro Museum.
Day 5: Régua, Lamego, PinhãoTour the ancient town of Lamego and visit the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies. You’ll then sample bolas de Lamego, a specialty dish of the region. After, continue cruising through the dramatic gorges of the Douro Valley to Pinhão, where you’ll disembark for a wine tasting and dinner at a local Portuguese winery.
Day 6: Pinhão, Vila RealTake a trip to Palacio de Mateus, located near the city of Vila Real. Built in 1745, the palace offers a wonderful insight into the lives of Portuguese aristocracy. Embark on a tour of the palace followed by free time to explore the extensive gardens. Enjoy time at leisure in Pinhão followed by the Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board.
Day 7: Barca d’AlvaTravel to the tiny fortified village of Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo today. On a tour here, see the castle ruins, and take in spectacular views of the Douro Valley and surrounding towns. Back on board, enjoy a delicious dinner this evening as you makew the most of your last night on board your stylish river ship.
Day 8: Barca d’Alva, Disembark Ship, Salamanca, MadridDisembark in Barca d’Alva today and travel to the ancient city of Salamanca. During a tour, see the University of Salamanca and the House of Shells. Afterwards, continue to your hotel in Madrid, where you will be able to enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Stay: Three Nights: Westin Palace Madrid
Day 9: MadridEnjoy a tour of Madrid followed by a Farewell Dinner featuring a range of tantalising tapas later in the evening.
Day 10: MadridEnjoy a choice of activities in Madrid today. Perhaps learn all about the traditional flavours of delecatable Spanish cuisine on a culinary tour. Otherwise, immerse yourself in Spanish art at the Prado Museum, including works from Italian and Flemish artisits including elázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens, and Bosch. Alternatively you may wish to explore Bernabéu soccer stadium, home to the world-famous Real Madrid Football Club.
Day 11: Depart MadridAfter a delicious breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport.
INCLUSIONS:
Unique experiences in up to 11 destinations, Expert APT Tour and Cruise Directors, Return airport transfers, port charges and tipping, Finest dining - a total of 25 meals.

Paris do Bordeuax

  

Itinerary  
Day 1: Arrive in Paris

Arrive in the romantic city of Paris and be transferred to your hotel. This evening, get to know your fellow travellers as you enjoy a Welcome Reception.

Stay: Three Nights: Paris, Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe
Day 2: ParisEnjoy a sightseeing tour of the French capital. See the Avenue des Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe, and take a trip to the second level of the Eiffel Tower. This evening, enjoy a meal and a memorable show at the Moulin Rouge.
Day 3: ParisPerhaps join a culinary walking tour, discover Montmartre or take a tour through The Louvre.
Day 4: Paris, Bordeaux, Embark ShipTravel by train to Bordeaux and on arrival, transfer to your river ship. After settling in, delight in a Welcome Reception tonight.

Stay: Seven Nights: one of APT’s luxurious Aria River Ships
Day 5: CadillacToday you will have your choice of sightseeing. Perhaps tour Cadillac, before exploring Saint-Macaire. Alternatively, visit Sauternes where you’ll tour two historic châteaux then try the region’s famous dessert wine. Tonight, visit Château de Cazeneuve, once home of the Kings of Navarre. Be greeted by the current owners of the Sabran-Pontevès family, descendants of the original owners. Enjoy a private tour of the lovingly restored interior, before sitting down to dinner in the impeccable Grand Salon, while enjoying the traditional music from a three-piece Baroque band.
Day 6: PauillacTake in the stunning sights as your ship threads its way along the Gironde estuary, which cuts alongside the historic vineyards of Aquitaine. On a visit to one of the few remaining family-owned cooperages, you’ll get to see how wooden wine barrels are produced and learn the fascinating secrets of this time-honoured craft, followed by a wine tasting with your very own oenologist. Later, enjoy a Gala Welcome Dinner.
Day 7: Blaye, BourgDiscover the town of Blaye and take a walk around the 17th-century citadel. Later, perhaps travel to Cognac for a tour and a tasting at a French cognac house or sail to the town of Bourg and take a walking tour.
Day 8: Libourne, Saint-ÉmilionIn Saint-Émilion, head beneath the village to visit the Monolithic Church and the underground cellars of Les Cordeliers. Then sample some macarons and Les Cordeliers’ sparkling wines.
Day 9: Libourne, BordeauxPerhaps join a guide for a tour of Bergerac to discover the wonderfully restored Old Town. Another option is to tour Libourne and visit a caviar estate. Enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Dinner.
Day 10: BordeauxTake in the sights of Bordeaux on a tour.
Day 11: Disembark Ship, BordeauxBe transferred to the airport.
INCLUSIONS:
Unique cultural experiences in up to 8 towns, villages and cities, Transfers, port charges and tipping
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