Gems of Southeast Europe - Smithsonian Journeys

From $4,248 per person

8 days

Ship: AmaBella

Map showcasing locations in Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania along the Danube River.
AmaWaterways logo

Journey Summary

  • Day 1 - Budapest
  • Day 2 - Budapest
  • Day 3 - Vukovar
  • Day 4 - Belgrade
  • Day 5 - Iron Gates
  • Day 6 - Vidin
  • Day 7 - Ruse
  • Day 8 - Giurgiu

Detailed Itinerary

Day-by-day description of your cruise and cruise activities.

Day 1

Budapest

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.

Day 2

Budapest

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.

Day 3

Vukovar

Day 4

Belgrade

Day 5

Iron Gates

Day 6

Vidin

Day 7

Ruse

Day 8

Giurgiu

Dates and Prices

Select year & month:

Unavailable dates are greyed out

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Available dates:

May 25, 2026

Ship

Your cruise ship

The AmaBella, a river cruise ship from AmaWaterways, sails along a European river beneath a large bridge. The sleek white vessel features expansive glass windows, an open upper deck with passengers enjoying the view, and a modern design tailored for scenic river cruising. The backdrop includes stone bridge pillars and urban riverside architecture.
AmaWaterways logo
About this ship

AmaBella

AmaBella is a refined and elegantly designed river cruise ship that brings together the charm of intimate travel with the sophistication of modern European cruising. Purpose-built to sail the Danube River, AmaBella invites up to 160 guests into an environment of personalized service, immersive cultural experiences, and thoughtfully curated luxury.

From the moment you step aboard, AmaBella reflects the distinctive hallmarks of AmaWaterways—uncluttered elegance, attentive hospitality, and a seamless blend of comfort and discovery. Public spaces are warm and welcoming, with inviting lounges, a cozy fireside library, a panoramic main lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows, and an open-air Sun Deck featuring a heated pool and plenty of room for relaxation or scenic viewing.

Accommodations aboard AmaBella include 81 thoughtfully appointed staterooms and suites, most of which offer AmaWaterways’ signature twin-balcony layout—featuring both a French balcony and a full step-out balcony for expansive views of the river. Each stateroom is designed with comfort in mind, complete with luxurious bedding, spacious marble bathrooms with multi-jet showers, flat-screen entertainment systems, complimentary Wi-Fi, and individually controlled climate settings.

Dining on board is a culinary highlight. Guests enjoy regionally inspired and seasonally fresh cuisine in the Main Restaurant, or a multi-course tasting experience at The Chef’s Table, an intimate venue with an open kitchen concept. With complimentary fine wines, beer, and soft drinks served during lunch and dinner, dining becomes an occasion in itself.

Wellness and enrichment are central to the AmaBella experience. A fitness room and massage services are available onboard, along with a dedicated Wellness Host who leads daily stretching and fitness classes. For those who prefer active exploration, AmaBella carries a fleet of complimentary bicycles and offers guided biking and hiking excursions tailored to different activity levels. Evening entertainment features local performers and regional traditions, bringing each destination to life onboard.

AmaBella sails a range of Danube itineraries, connecting guests with the cultural richness, natural beauty, and architectural splendor of Central Europe. From the imperial grandeur of Vienna to the medieval charm of Regensburg and the vibrant energy of Budapest, every itinerary is designed to immerse guests in the essence of each region.

Ideal for travelers who seek cultural depth, exceptional cuisine, and the comforts of an upscale floating hotel, AmaBella delivers an unforgettable river cruise experience grounded in authenticity and elevated by elegance.

Deckplans

consultation

Need information to make a decision?

Reach out to our travel concierges today to create your perfect journey.