Your journey through eastern Europe begins with a flight from your local airport to Budapest, where MV Serenade I is moored, ready to set sail this evening.

Today’s port of call is the charming Hungarian town of Kalocsa, centre of the Hungarian paprika production industry. You are free to explore; perhaps take time to visit the elegant Archbishop’s Cathedral and Holy Trinity Square. Or alternatively take advantage of the opportunity to see the traditional side of Hungarian life on an optional tour of the Hungarian Puszta. Here you will see thrilling Puszta horsemanship and learn about farming traditions in the house of folk arts.

You arrive in historic Belgrade today, the ancient capital of Serbia. An optional city tour will reveal the story of this remarkable city. Highlights include the Orthodox cathedral, the Square of the Republic and the mighty Kalemegdan Fortress which dominates the old town.

Enjoy a day cruising the unique Iron Gate region. This sixty-mile stretch of river used to be narrow and perilous, with numerous rocks on the river bed. Today it is a much safer journey – the water level has been raised and the hazards removed. Find a spot on deck to take in the superb views of the traverse and the two locks of the Djerdap Hyrdroelectric Dam.

You arrive in the attractive town of Rousse this morning. Make the most of your time here by joining your Tour Manager on an optional tour to Bucharest, the Romanian capital. Known as ‘Little Paris’ during the 1930s, it is an eclectic city with a real mix of architectural styles.

The cruise arrives in pretty Silistra this morning; why not join an optional scenic drive through rural Bulgaria to Varna, one of the real gems of the Black Sea. The afternoon is free for your own discoveries.

From Cernavoda, enjoy your included transfer to the ancient Black Sea city of Constanta. Or get to know the old town on an optional city tour, taking in the ancient ruins and magnificent Orthodox church.

Nestled at the base of a mountain, Svistov enjoys a mild climate and a long and interesting history. You are at leisure to explore independently, or to perhaps join a tour to Veliko Tarnovo. This most atmospheric of cities, the former capital of Bulgaria, is known for its grand buildings perched on the banks of the Yatra.

This morning you arrive in Oriahovo, where you can join an optional visit to Sofia, the Bulgarian capital. The skyline is dominated by the impressive onion domes of the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral. Rejoin the boat in Vidin before continuing your cruise towards Vukovor.

Enjoy a day cruising, watching the world go by as we leave Bulgaria and head into Croatia.

Historic Vukovor has been faithfully restored to its former glory. Explore at your leisure, perhaps paying a visit to the impressive Franciscan monastery, or enjoy a wander among well-preserved streets of Baroque buildings.

Free time to explore this town at your own pace.

The former rival cities of Buda and Pest, separated by the Danube, were only unified in 1873 and still retain their own distinct personalities. Discover the city’s highlights on an optional tour - the flamboyant Fisherman’s Bastion, the immediately recognisable parliament building and Heroes’ Square, adorned with statues.

Disembark in Budapest this morning and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.