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Enchantment of Eastern Europe with Budapest and Bucharest on Emerald Star

From Budapest, Hungary to Bucharest, Romania
Length: 11 Days - Departs: Thu, May 08, 2025
Operator
Departure
May 08, 2025
Arrival
May 18, 2025

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Spring Savings Sale, 2-For-1 Fares + Free Airfare

Mention Promo Code: PT3365
Promotion Image

Spring Savings Sale, 2-For-1 Fares + Free Airfare

Spring Savings Sale, 2-For-1 Fares + Free Airfare

Promotion Details
Celebrate the return of spring with incredible offers on unforgettable journeys along Europe’s most iconic rivers. From the castles along the Rhine to the café-lined streets of Budapest, every journey offers curated excursions, modern luxury, and lasting memories. For a limited time, enjoy 2-for-1 Fares, Free Airfare, and a Complimentary Upgrade—plus, on select 2025 sailings, your Drinks Package is included. Plus as always, receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. (Not all itineraries quality, contact your Travel Consultant for applicable sailings).
Must Book By Sun, Apr 27, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new bookings only made between April 14-27, 2025 on 2025 Emerald River Cruise departures. 2-for-1 Fares: 2-for-1 Fares are displayed as a per-person rate in a double occupancy cabin. Fares are based on full fare pricing and may not have resulted in a sale. Offer applies to cruise pricing only; does not apply on land extensions, air, or any other add-ons.

Complimentary Upgrade: Complimentarty upgrade from category C to A on select sailings. Book into the cabin you would like, discount applied after booking. Combinable with 2-for-1 fares, Pay in full offers, complimentary drinks package and Non refundable fare. Not combinable with any other offer.

Complimentary Platinum Beverage Package: Select 2025 dates only. Available to guests 18 years or only. Packages are applicable throughout the entire public areas and lounges only. Wines and Spirits from Chairman's list excluded from all packages. The minibar is excluded from packages. No cash value. Combinable with 2-for-1 fares, pay-in-full offers, complimentary cabin upgrade and Non refundable fare. Not combinable with any other offer.

Free air when you pay in full: Free air offers available when you pay in full based on suite category. Free premium economy air is available on S, RA, and SA suite categories with a max value of $2,500pp. For Southeast Asia, free premium economy is available for the S and SA categories with a max value of $4,000pp. Free economy air is available on other cabin categories with a max value of $1,500pp. Air offers available when you pay in full 10 months prior to departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers, or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. All flights will be booked on Emerald Cruises choice of airline and routing and are subject to availability. Savings options are available in lieu of airfare with same payment terms. For S, RA, and SA suites receive $1,500pp savings ($3,000 per suite) when you pay in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure; whichever is soonest. Other cabin categories receive $1,000pp savings ($2,000 per suite).

Non-Refundable Savings: Bonus savings of up to $300pp on select departures when you select non-refundable payment terms. When booking, please reference code NONREF. Full payment must be received within 48 hours of booking to receive these offers. Once booked, fare is 100% non-refundable however is combinable with the Flexible Booking Plan which allows funds to be moved to a new sailing once in circumstance that your plans have changed. Savings vary by departure. Combinable with 2-for-1 Fares, Flash Sale offer, Flexible Booking Plan and Pay in Full offers; not combinable with any other offers.

Single Supplement: Free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment required. Single supplement is applied to the 2-for-1 Fares; single guest pays one guest fare. Free single supplement is not combinable with any other offers. Other dates may have a 45% single supplement; can be converted to a 25% supplement when paid in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure, whichever is soonest. Single supplement offers not applicable on S, RA, or SA categories. Not combinable with any other offers. Offer is capacity controlled.

Complimentary Flexible Booking Plan: We understand you may need to adjust your plans, so we’re offering the flexibility to change your travel arrangements or re-book for a more suitable time if needed. Our Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date, or cancel your journey, until 90 days prior to departure, less third-party fees. We will provide you with a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, which is valid for 24 months. Offer is valued at $125pp. No substitutions; no cash value.

All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled, or withdrawn at any time without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. Port charges are included in the price shown. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please visit emerald-cruises.com or contact your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C. For complete terms and conditions visit emeraldcruises.com.

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3528
Promotion Image

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Promotion Details
Take advantage of this exclusive offer and enjoy savings of $500 per couple ($250 per person) on 8+ day river cruises. Plus as always receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. (Blackout dates may apply; contact your Travel Consultant for more details)
Must Book By Wed, Apr 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Affordable Tours exclusive offer is available for new bookings only made between April 1-30 2025 on 8+ day itineraries across 2025 & 2026 river departures. Exclusive offers are combinable with 2-for-1 fares, pay-in-full offers, Emerald exclusive savings, Flash sales, Military discounts, Show Vouchers, Key Account offers, and Loyalty offers unless otherwise specified. Not combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Scenic group reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please call your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for legal residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C.

$300 Military Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3378
Promotion Image

$300 Military Savings

$300 Military Savings

Promotion Details
We are honored to recognize the selfless service of those who have served our nation. As a token of our appreciation, enjoy this exclusive savings of $300 per suite to all US military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Must Book By Wed, Dec 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

US military personnel, veterans, and their families take an additional $300 off per cabin on Emerald Cruises River with proof of current or past military status. This offer is combinable with 2-for-1 savings, pay-in-full offers, key account exclusives, Flash sales, Scenic Select, and Emerald Cruises. Combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. Taxes & port charges are included in the price. Offer available to residents of the 50 United States only. Offer ends December 31, 2025. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Visit scenicusa.com for complete terms and conditions.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    Budapest
    Thu, May 08, 2025

    Welcome to Budapest, the capital of Hungary and the perfect introduction to Eastern Europe. You will be met at the airport in Hungary and taken to your centrally-located hotel, with a two-night stay included in your itinerary.

  2. Day 2
    Budapest
    Fri, May 09, 2025

    Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Budapest on a panoramic tour that showcases the stunning beauty of Hungary’s capital. Marvel at the iconic Parliament building, the grandeur of Heroes’ Square, and the elegant architecture along Andrássy Avenue. Cross the Danube to enjoy sweeping views of the city’s iconic bridges and vibrant riverbanks.

    Included Excursion
    A guided tour of Budapest


    Meals: Breakfast
  3. Day 3
    Budapest
    Sat, May 10, 2025

    Today, you will be transferred from your hotel to your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.


    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
  4. Day 4
    Kalocsa
    Sun, May 11, 2025

    This morning, we’ll reach Kalocsa, best known for its vibrant paprika festivals. You’ll venture to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, for a traditional performance showcasing the exceptional equestrian skills of the Magyar cowboys. Sit back and enjoy the show, as you watch their spectacular horse parade and witness their exercise drills. Tonight, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to relax and meet your fellow guests during the welcome dinner & reception. 

    EmeraldPLUS
    Puszta Equestrian Heritage


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    Vukovar
    Mon, May 12, 2025

    This morning, you will get to learn more about Croatia and the daily life of locals, Our EmeraldPLUS excursion will bring you to the home of a Croatian family to share a typical meal from the area while getting to know the local culture and customs. 

    EmeraldPLUS
    Home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family

    DiscoverMORE
    Vucedol Culture Museum (extra expense, please note; this will not be available on Mondays as the Museum will be closed)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    Belgrade
    Tue, May 13, 2025

    The capital of Serbia awaits you today, as a city tour introduces you to the highlights of one of Europe’s oldest cities. Relax as your coach takes you through the centre of this peaceful city and witness the symmetrical façade of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the world’s largest church buildings. Stop for a tour of the Museum of Yugoslavia or learn about the history of Belgrade during a guided bike tour of the city. 
    This evening, relax in the Horizon Lounge with a traditional Serbian folklore show providing spectacular entertainment. 

    Included Excursion
    Highlights of Belgrade

    EmeraldPLUS
    Serbian folklore evening show on board

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour in Belgrade

    DiscoverMORE
    Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    Golubac – Donji Milanovac
    Wed, May 14, 2025

    In eastern Serbia, within the Majdanpek municipality, the town of Donji Milanovac sits on the right bank of the Danube. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Palaeolithic site of Lepenski Vir on an included excursion. Enjoy learning about the importance of this archaeological site and its illustrious history, spanning more than 8 millennia. The day ends as we sail through the Iron Gates, a picturesque narrow gorge that meanders between the Carpathian Mountains and the European Alps. 

    Included Excursion
    Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum

    DiscoverMORE
    Golubac Castle visit (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    Vidin
    Thu, May 15, 2025

    This morning, we’ll arrive in Vidin, a beautiful town in north-west Bulgaria, renowned for its wine production. Your included tour will introduce you to the best of Vidin’s viticulture, as you stroll through a local vineyard and enjoy a tasting session of their produce. 
    Later, venture to Baba Vida, a medieval fortress whose name can be translated to mean ‘Granny Vida’. Alternatively, hike to Belogradchik Fortress, a well-preserved stronghold that sits against a series of impressive rock formations. 

    Included Excursion
    Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress 

    DiscoverMORE
    Traditional Bulgarian pastry making demo (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day 9
    Rousse 
    Fri, May 16, 2025

    Today, your Star-Ship will cruise into Rousse, where you will have the opportunity to explore the timeless charm of its  elegant architecture and cultural heritage of the city that many call “The Little Vienna”.  
    Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of churches, chapels, and monasteries. Tonight, your crew will welcome you on board for a farewell dinner. 

    Included Excursion
    Walking tour of Rousse 

    EmeraldPLUS
    Choir performance

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided hike to Ivanovo Church

    DiscoverMORE
    Full day tour of Veliko Tarnovo & Arbanasi (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  10. Day 10
    Giurgiu – Bucharest
    Sat, May 17, 2025

    This morning, relax and enjoy the passing scenery as we drive towards Bucharest, including the Romanian city of Giurgiu, set amongst the mud flats and marshes of the Danube. Visit the Spring Palace and the private residence of Nicolae Ceausescu, before enjoying free time to explore the city at leisure. Learn about Bucharest’s vibrant history on a guided coach tour, passing by the Palace of Parliament. 
    This evening, settle into the comfortable surrounds of your hotel before you consider going for a stroll down one of the wide avenues or leafy boulevards that give Bucharest a distinctly French feel. 

    Included Excursion
    Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace


    Meals: Breakfast
  11. Day 11
    Bucharest 
    Sun, May 18, 2025

    After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Great Hungarian Plain and medieval fortresses with you.  

    This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.


    Meals: Breakfast

Countries Visited

Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia

Rivers Visited

Danube

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Ship Information

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Cabins

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Life on Board

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Questions & Answers
  Ask A Question

Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.3
Accommodations
3.9
Itinerary
4.6
Professional Staff
4.6
Repeat with Operator
4.1
Value for Money
4.3

Ratings based off 9 reviews - currently showing 4 reviews with comments only

Fabulous experience! As usual I was extremely nervous about traveling and all of the things that “could” go wrong. Everything that AffordableTours.com promised was executed without a hitch! It was a wonderful trip and incredible service from AffordableTours.com and their team members. Thank you!

Although this is my first river cruise, so I cannot compare with other companies, I was very happy with Emerald with a few exceptions. They advertise that it is all inclusive and do offer several free tour options at each port, but that also sell Discovery options that are more money. We did 4 of those which increased the cost for 2 by $600. If you like to workout, forget the gym, which had one rowing machine, an exercise bike and some dumbbells with enough room for 3 people at most. The staff were all great, the food was very good and the itinerary was excellent. They have a small swimming pool and late night activities. Good diversity with most people from US, Canada, Australia and new Zealand.

Our third river cruise but found the baths on this particular ship to be very small. The crew, though, was excellent, especially the director!

I absolutely loved the cities and towns we visited. I met mant new friends on this trip. The staff were very friendly, professional and attentive to my needs.

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AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Emerald. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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