7 nights · Romania · River cruise · Departs Bucharest (Romania) · Visiting Ruse, Vidin, Novi Sad, Kalocsa, Budapest · Aboard APT River Cruises Travelmarvel on the APT Ostara
Image courtesy of APT River Cruises Travelmarvel ©
This river cruise sails the Danube, departing Bucharest.
| Cruise line | APT River Cruises Travelmarvel |
|---|---|
| Ship | APT Ostara |
| Duration | 7 nights |
| Port calls | 6 |
| Departures | 1 sailings |
| From fare | $4,095 per person |
| Year built | 2025 |
| Guests | 154 |
| Cabins | 77 |
| Crew | 60 |
| Length | 135 m |
| Beam | 12 m |
| Cruising speed | 12.0 kn |
Bucharest is Romania’s capital, where Belle Époque façades stand beside broad boulevards and stark communist-era buildings. Start along Calea Victoriei, then explore the Old Town’s lanes, churches, cafés and 19th-century landmarks. Visit the Romanian Athenaeum, a celebrated concert hall, and the Palace of Parliament, a vast monument to the communist era. Allow time for a meal: Romanian cooking pairs well with the city’s lively café culture.
Ruse is Bulgaria’s grand Danube city, where elegant nineteenth-century façades give the streets a distinctly European air. Start at Svoboda Square, framed by cafés and the striking Monument of Liberty, then explore the Regional Historical Museum. Ruse also makes a rewarding base for visiting the UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches of Ivanovo, a short drive inland. After sightseeing, settle beside the river and watch the Danube carry the day downstream.
On Bulgaria’s northwestern edge, Vidin faces Romania across the broad Danube. Begin at Baba Vida, a remarkably preserved medieval fortress whose towers command the river. In the old town, the imposing St. Dimitar Cathedral and Ottoman-era buildings reveal layers of Bulgarian history. Walk the riverside promenade as vessels pass along Europe’s great waterway. Vidin also offers a gateway to the Belogradchik Rocks, about 50 kilometres south.
Step ashore in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, and the Danube is never far from view. Across the river, Petrovaradin Fortress commands the skyline, its ramparts holding centuries of history and sweeping views over the water. In the compact centre, café-lined streets lead to Liberty Square, the Cathedral of the Name of Mary and lively markets. Come for the architecture; stay for a city that feels distinctly Serbian, confident and easy to explore.
Kalocsa rewards a shore visit with two Hungarian essentials: paprika and a remarkable ecclesiastical heritage. Set on the Great Hungarian Plain, this compact city has been an archbishopric for nearly a thousand years. Visit the cathedral and Archbishop’s Palace, then explore the Paprika Museum to discover the spice that defines local cuisine. Colorful embroidery and painted folk art offer a glimpse of life beyond the Danube.
Budapest makes a memorable arrival, with the Danube dividing hilly Buda from lively, level Pest. From the river, the Hungarian Parliament’s Gothic Revival façade commands attention, especially after dark. Cross the Chain Bridge to explore Castle Hill, or stay in Pest for cafés, markets, and celebrated thermal baths. Allow time to linger: Budapest’s pleasures are best discovered on foot, over a long lunch, and beside the water.
Published August 7, 2026
Last updated October 3, 2026
Author: J. Richard
Good to know: Prices are quoted per person based on double occupancy and include all applicable taxes and fees. Availability and prices can change quickly, so please continue through the booking process to confirm the latest availability and pricing before you pay.
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