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North Sea - Black Sea Cruise From Amsterdam To Istanbul 2013
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Tour Operator |
Globus |
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Tour Code |
WAOE3 |
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Vacation Quality |
First Class |
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Vacation Type |
River Cruise |
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Number of Days |
27 |
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Countries Visited |
Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Germany, Hungary, Netherlands, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Turkey
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City Highlights |
Amsterdam, Belgrade, Bratislava, Bucharest, Budapest, Cologne, Istanbul, Linz, Mohacs, Nuremberg, Oltenita, Osijek, Regensburg, Rousse, Rudesheim, Svistov, Veliko Turnovo, Vienna, Vukovar, Wurzburg |
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Amsterdam: Welcome reception; canal cruiseCologne: Guided sightseeingRhine Gorge: Cruise through the gorgeRüdesheim: Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum; special treatMiltenberg: Guided walk; baking demonstrationWürzburg: Guided sightseeing, visit the Bishop’s ResidenzBamberg: Guided sightseeing, see the Old Town HallNuremberg: Guided sightseeingMain Danube Canal: Cruise in the canalRegensburg: Guided sightseeing; beer tastingLinz: Guided walkGrein: Guided walkDürnstein: Guided walk, see the StiftskircheVienna: Guided sightseeingBratislava: Guided sightseeing, visit St. Martin’s CathedralBudapest: Guided sightseeing, see Fishermen’s BastionMohács: Wine tasting in Villány wine regionOsijek: Guided sightseeingVukovar: Guided sightseeingBelgrade: Guided sightseeing, visit Kalemegdan FortressIron Gates: Cruise through the dramatic Iron Gates gorge; see the Trajan TableVeliko Târnovo: Guided sightseeing, visit the Patriarch’s ChurchArbanassi: Guided visit of the Ethnographical Museum and the Church of the NativityHarsova:Excursion to Celic Dere MonasteryDanube Delta: Delta excursionConstanta: Guided sightseeing, visit the Natural History & Archaeological MuseumBucharest: Guided sightseeing, see the Parliament Building and visit the National Art MuseumIstanbul: Guided sightseeing, visit Hagia Sophia, Blue Mosque, Topkapi Seraglio, and Grand Bazaar; Host service during your stay
MEALS
B: full buffet breakfast L: lunch D: dinnerComplimentary sparkling wine with breakfast, soft drinks with lunch, and wine, beer, or soft drinks with dinner are included on board your vessel.
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Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam, Holland (Embarkation).
Welcome to Amsterdam! Holland’s 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. This afternoon, board your river cruise vessel and meet your crew at a welcome reception at 6 pm. (D)
Day 2: Amsterdam
. There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes dating back to Amsterdam’s “Golden Age.” Afterward, your ship sets sail for Cologne. (B,L,D)
Day 3: 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 next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kölsch in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of “4711,” the original eau de cologne. (B,L,D)
Day 4: Rhine Gorge–Rüdesheim
. 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. Visit SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM in pretty Rüdesheim. Enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT, then there’s free time to explore the Drosselgasse and pick up some souvenirs. (B,L,D)
Day 5: Miltenberg
. 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)
Day 6: Würzburg
. Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” Würzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP’S RESIDENZ is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B,L,D)
Day 7: 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)
Day 8: 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. (B,L,D)
Day 9: 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 centers. It is here you will find Germany’s oldest restaurant, the 12th-century Historische Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen). Before dinner we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s FAMOUS BEERS! (B,L,D)
Day 10: Linz, Austria–Grein.
After breakfast this morning, a Certified Local Guide will acquaint you with Linz, Austria’s third-largest city and an important river port. Culture is an important part of life in Linz. Composer Anton Bruckner lived here and Mozart’s Linzer Symphony was composed in the city. In the late afternoon, arrive in the attractive country resort of Grein, nestled at the foot of a bluff in the shadow of its castle. Join a local expert for a guided walk and take pictures of the turreted houses on the main square. Alternatively, you might like to join an optional excursion to Salzburg or to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic. (B,L,D)
Day 11: Dürnstein.
Standing on the banks of the Danube, the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue façade is without a doubt the landmark of Dürnstein. A Certified Local Guide will take you on a walking tour of this town, which lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region, and will tell you the tale of England’s King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned in the castle whose ruins still stand above the town. (B,L,D)
Day 12: Vienna.
Vienna, Austria’s capital, is known as the “City of Music” and inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, the city has much to offer: lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse, 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 savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. An optional concert is available during your stay. (B,L,D)
Day 13: Vienna-Bratislava, Slovakia.
In the late morning your ship leaves Vienna, allowing you to relax on board until the mid afternoon when you arrive in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. A Certified Local Guide will show you the charming Old Town with its Town Hall and views of Mirbach Palace, as well as gothic ST. MARTIN’S CATHEDRAL. (B,L,D)
Day 14: Budapest, Hungary
. Spanning the banks of the Danube, Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Eight 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 Certified Local Guide will show you. (B,L,D)
Day 15: Mohacs, Excursion to Villány Wine District.
This morning, enjoy some leisurely cruising while taking in the peaceful riverscape of southern Hungary. After lunch, an excursion takes you into the Villány district, where some of Hungary’s best red wines are produced. Learn more about which varietals are grown, and why the climate and soil conditions here are ideal for the production of excellent wines, as you enjoy a WINE TASTING. (B,L,D)
Day 16: Osijek & Vukovar, Croatia.
Today, learn more about the complex history of Croatia and the events that led to the Croatian War of Independence. Accompanied by local experts, explore both Osijek, an important economic and cultural center, as well as Vukovar, Croatia’s largest river port located at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers. Vukovar was scene to an 87-day siege in 1991, known as the Battle of Vukovar. This and other dramatic events in the recent past have shaped both the present and the future of this region. (B,L,D)
Day 17: 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 center has a lively pedestrian area and charming outdoor cafés. (B,L,D)
Day 18: Iron Gates.
The Serbian fortresses of Smederevo and Golubac and the Trajan Table marking the Roman conquest of Dacia are impressive sights on the right 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)
Day 19: Sivstov, Bulgaria–Excursion to Veliko Târnovo & Arbanassi–Rousse.
A comfortable ride from Svistov is the ancient Bulgarian capital of Veliko Târnovo. 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. Rejoin your ship in Rousse. (B,L,D)
Day 20: Harsova, Romania. Excursion to Celic Dere Monastery.
After breakfast, a drive in the countryside takes you to Celic Dere, one of the most well-known monasteries in this area, which is considered the center of Orthodoxism. The first church was built here in the early 19th century by priests from Transylvania and Basarabia, who had lived on Mount Athos in Greece. Return to your ship for lunch and enjoy an afternoon and evening of tranquil sailing toward Tulcea and the mouth of the Danube. (B,L,D)
Day 21: St. Georghe, Danube Delta.
Maybe this morning you will wake up early to watch the sunrise over the Black Sea. Later, enjoy a small celebration to mark “Km 0.” From its source in the Black Forest to its delta at the Black Sea, the Danube measures 2,845 kilometers in length. The Km markings can be clearly seen on the river banks the length of the river, and today it’s time to celebrate the end of the Danube’s journey at “Km 0.” This afternoon, enjoy an excursion into the Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best preserved of Europe’s deltas, hosting over 300 species of birds as well as 45 species of freshwater fish. (B,L,D)
Day 22: Cernavodă . Excursion to Constanta.
Cernavodă lies at the western end of the 40-mile-long Black Sea Canal, the pride and joy of communist achievement. From here, drive to Constanta, the most important commercial center in Romania, situated on the Black Sea. Enjoy a guided tour of this popular resort town and visit the NATURAL HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM. Late this afternoon, return to your ship. (B,L,D)
Day 23: Oltenita (Disembarkation)–Bucharest.
Bucharest, Romania’s lively capital, is only a short drive from Oltenita. Its wide boulevards and Arc de Triomphe have gained it the name “Paris of the East.” Much recent history has taken place here. During your included tour, see the impressive Parliament Building, the second-largest building in the world after the Pentagon, and the Royal Palace Square, scene of riots in 1989, which led to the collapse of the communist dictatorship. The former Royal Palace now houses the NATIONAL ART MUSEUM. (B)
Day 24: Bucharest–Istanbul, Turkey.
Today, fly to Istanbul. Free time to relax and begin soaking up the unique atmosphere of this city built on two continents. (B)
Day 25: Istanbul.
Founded by the Greeks as Byzantium more than 2,500 years ago, renamed Constantinople in the year 330, and finally called Istanbul, the city on the Bosporus remains one of the most exciting places in the world. Its strategic location as gateway between the Orient and the Occident, the Islamic and the Christian worlds, and the Black Sea and the Mediterranean predestined it for a turbulent history. Guided sightseeing includes Emperor Justinian’s HAGIA SOPHIA and Sultan Ahmet’s BLUE MOSQUE, magnificent monuments to two competing world religions that stand peacefully side by side; TOPKAPI SERAGLIO, residence of the Ottoman Sultans; and the GRAND BAZAAR. (B)
Day 26: Istanbul.
A free day in Istanbul to explore on your own. Or, why not join a full day optional excursion to the fabulous archaeological site of Ephesus? Fly to Izmir, then travel to the city which later became the capital of Roman Asia Minor. When St. Paul arrived here he was so awestruck that he asked, “Is there a greater city?” Visit the Library of Celsus, the Amphitheater, and listen to exciting “inside stories” of life in ancient Ephesus as you walk down its “Champs Elysées.” Also visit the House of the Virgin Mary before returning to Istanbul for a final evening in Turkey. (B)
Day 27: Istanbul.
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
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Bucharest Athénée Palace Hilton (SF); Istanbul Crowne Plaza Old City (SF) Dates and Prices do not include air travel. Participation in this vacation requires purchase of the following flights from Avalon Waterways, not included in pricing: (1) roundtrip air from your U.S. gateway and intra-vacation air segments; or (2) intra-vacation air segments only, starting at $300. Required intra-vacation air segment: Bucharest/Istanbul. Air prices were effective on April 11, 2012 and their availability is limited. At the time you purchase your tour, air prices may be higher.Port charges: $396Please call for single accommodation price. Triples not available.Extra nights per person in Amsterdam:Departures April 22–June 22, September 9-October 5: in single room $330, in twin room $200Departures July 1–August 8: in single room $275, in twin room $165Extra nights per person in Istanbul:in single room $315, in twin room $165Prices shown above include cruise in Category E in a deluxe outside stateroom on Indigo Deck.To upgrade to a higher category add per person:Category / Decks / PriceB / Sapphire Deck / $1,725A / Sapphire Deck / $1,883P / Royal Deck / $2,354Avalon Suite / Royal Deck / $4,083
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| Touring Date | Land & Air | Land Only | | May 18, 2013 - Jun 13, 2013 | Call Us | $10,328 | | Jun 22, 2013 - Jul 18, 2013 | Call Us | $10,378 | | Jul 27, 2013 - Aug 22, 2013 | Call Us | $10,178 | | Oct 05, 2013 - Oct 31, 2013 | Call Us | $10,178 |
* All prices are subject to change without notice and at any time by the tour operators. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. Please call us toll free at 1 800 232 6459 to confirm availability and current pricing on all our discounted specials. The prices on this website are not guaranteed until a deposit has been made. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents.
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