8-night The Danube From Romania To Budapest Cruise

Oltenita is the ancient Constantiola, which was the seat of the first bishopric established in Dacia. In the Crimean War the Turks forced the river at this point and inflicted heavy losses on the Russians. Oltenita is also the birthplace of Romanian president Ion Iliescu. and the starting point for a day trip to Bucharest, the capital of Romania since 1862. Gracious old Bucharest is being restored following its communist past, and many of its mansions, villas, and parks -- once reserved for the exclusive use of the Ceausescu family -- are now open to the public. The city's charm lies in its patchwork pattern of different districts. The spirit of old is most apparent in the north along the Calea Victoriei and near Cismigiu Gardens, where life retains a small-town intimacy. The Civic Center, built in a different era and on the orders of Nicolae Ceausescu, is an incredible structure, as well as a powerful political symbol.

The former medieval capital, Veliko Tarnovo is easily recognized as a historical and cultural center of contemporary Bulgaria. The cities museums are rich in artifacts and historical monuments and monasteries dot the landscape. The most visited spot in Veliko Tarnovo is the Arbanasi village. The St. Virgin Mary convent lies on one end of the village, the St Nikola monastery on the other. Exploring the village will be a memorable experience.

The old settlement of Arbanassi is situated on a high plateau with a picturesque views. Arbanassi is easily distinguishable for its impressive 17th century houses and churches with their rich interior wood-carvings, and mural paintings. It is not only the remarkable houses that are very interesting in Arbanassi. Not to be missed, are spectacular fountains with big eaves – Kokonska and Pazarska fountains and the seven Arbanassi churches are among the most remarkable monuments of Bulgarian art.

Donji Milanovac is a small town on the right bank of Lake Derdap in Serbia. The town is situated between picturesque hills, and enchanting views overlooking the lake. The Mediterranean like climate is very favorable to visitors.

This scenic passage is truly a spectacular, once-in-a-lifetime experience. The Iron Gates are a narrow gorge between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. The gorge, one of the most dramatic sights in Europe, forms a natural border between Serbia and Romania.

Ilok lies on Croatia's eastern border, and has a long history of affilitation with multiple entities, including the Kingdom of Bulgaria, Kingdom of Croatia, Ottoman Empire, Austrian Empire and Yugoslavia. The Ilok Castle provides panoramic views of the city and Serbia, and several Gothic churches give visitors a look into Ilok's heritage as these structures present old art and Islamic architecture. There is also an annual wine event that celebrates the region's Traminer, Burgundy and Grasevina wines.