Budapest to The Black Sea River Cruise - MS Thomas Hardy

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Known for its vibrant red paprika fields, Kalocsa is a delighing town situated along the banks of the Danube adorned with intricate architecture and famed for its culinary prowess. With a rich tapestry of cultural heritage and history, Kalocsa embodies traditional folklore and tradition, attracting a global audience of visitors to engage in its lively festivities. 

Belgrade, Serbia's capital, is characterised by its rich cultural tapestry, resilient spirit and lively nightlife. Situated at the confluence of the Sava and Danube, Belgrade beautifully blends history with modernity, offering visitors the opportunity to explore the magnificent Belgrade Fortress, wander through the bohemian Skadarlija district, and enjoy the city's vibrant culinary scene. Adorned with an amalgamation of architectural styles, reflecting the deep and complex history of the city, Belgrade embodies the resilience and vitality of Serbia. 

As the River Danube flows through the Carpathian Mountains, the breath-taking gorge known as the Iron Gates is formed, creating a natural border between Serbia and Romania. Characterised by steep limestone cliffs towering dramatically over the water, painting a magnificent landscape, this awe-inspiring stretch of the Danube is not only rich in natural beauty but also holds significance culturally and historically, home to archaeological remnants that date back to ancient times. The Iron Gates Dam is also situated within the Iron Gates, one of Europe's largest hydro-electric power stations, only further enhancing the gravity of the geographical marvel. 

Nikopol, Bulgaria, has played a significant role in history thanks to its strategic location along the southern bank of the Danube, witnessing various civilisations and proving a crucial feature in many epochs, evidenced by its many archaeological marvels. A magnificent fortress sits atop a hill overlooking the Danube, showcasing Nikopol's military prowess and enduring legacy. 

Ruse, or "Little Vienna" as it is affectionately referred, is an enchanting city resting on the northern bank of the Danube in Bulgaria. Seamlessly blending an amalgamation of European influences, with elegant 19th-century buildings and grand avenues, Ruse is home to iconic architectural landmarks such as the Freedom Square and the Monument of Liberty. Beyond its rich history and architectural heritage, the city's strategic location as a major port along the Danube has pivotally influenced its progression as a cultural and economic hub.

Steeped in medieval history, Vidin is a striking city located in the North-West of Bulgaria on the banks of the Danube, home to the incredible Baba Vida fortress, one of the country's oldest and best-preserved strongholds. Offering a glimpse into Bulgaria's cultural past, Vidin's cobblestone streets and Ottoman-era architecture paint a vivid picture of the country's legacy, surrounded by scenic views and the relaxed atmosphere of the Danube waterfront. 

Donji Milanovac offers a breathtaking backdrop for exploration and relaxation, situated at the confluence of the Danube and the Iron Gate Gorge. Steeped in natural beauty, the town boasts stunning vistas of rugged cliffs and serene waters, adorned with archaeological sites including the Lepenski Vir, an ancient settlement dating back thousands of years.

Novi Sad, situated in the north of Serbia, is recognised for its stunning landscapes, cultural richness and historical architecture. The famous Petrovaradin Fortress dominates the city scape, and plays host annually to the EXIT music festival, drawing crowds from across the globe. With its enticing old town, colourful culinary scene and welcoming feel, sitting along the banks of the Danube, Novi Sad offers a delightful blend of history, entertainment and Serbian hospitality.

Vukovar is a Croatian city with a poignant history, marked by the Croatian War of Independence of the early 20th Century, during which it suffered extensive damage and destruction. Despite the scars of its past, Vukovar has seen remarkable efforts to rebuild, whilst maintaining elements of its rich cultural history. Visitors today can explore the Baroque architecture of Eltz Castle and the solemn Memorial Cemetery, serving as a symbol of resilience and strength alongside hope, recovery and light, a tribute to the powerful determination of its population. 

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

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The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 167 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.

The ship’s restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables of just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

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At the Bistro with its open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating, enjoy a more intimate dining experience whilst taking in the fantastic views. Here in the evenings the chef presents his personal signature dishes to a small number of diners with menus varying according to the seasons; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience.

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On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains. You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.

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After a superb dinner in the restaurant perhaps it’s time for a digestif accompanied by the soothing tones of the ship’s pianist or unwind with a book from the smartly wood panelled library. 

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On the Emerald Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or for something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage. So you will always look your best there is a hairdressers too which also offers manicure and pedicure treatments.

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Small splash pool and putting green on the Sun Deck

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A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level!

Suites on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy with no supplement and are subject to availability.

The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.

The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly.

You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Suites on the Diamond (upper) and Ruby (middle) Decks have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer!

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments.

*Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.

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Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite available on the Ruby (middle) and Diamond (upper) decks. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments.

*Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.

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If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset* with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments.

*Smart handsets will be available on 2022 holiday departures.