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17 Night Black Sea Explorer with Turkey and Land Tour

From Istanbul to Budapest
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Scenic Ruby

Scenic Cruises
5 Stars
  • Cruise #: 4835174
  • Departs: Sun, May 26, 2024
  • Returns: Wed, Jun 12, 2024
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    *Prices are per person based on double occupancy

    Rates

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    Riverview $13,180
    Suite $15,680
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    Itinerary Summary

    Day by Day Details

    Land Segment of Itinerary

    Sunday - May 26, 2024
    Day
    1
    Istanbul, Turkey
    • Istanbul, Turkey
    Welcome to Istanbul, the city that straddles two continents over the Bosphorus Strait, with one half of the city in Europe and the other in Asia. This strategic waterway has played a major role in world trade for centuries and is still one of the most important global shipping routes. Home to more than 15 million people, Istanbul is the largest city in Turkey and one of the largest in the world. Istanbul will inspire all your senses, an exhilarating blend of cultures, cuisines, architecture, history, and style. ...
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    Monday - May 27, 2024
    Day
    2
    Istanbul, Turkey
    • Istanbul, Turkey
    The wonders of Istanbul await you today on a guided tour. There have been settlements on this important site, occupying both banks of the Bosphorus Strait, for thousands of years. The modern city began life as Constantinople in the 4th century, before changing its name to Istanbul in 1930. At every turn, you're walking through history. First, you'll take a scenic cruise along the strait, winding between ferries, barges, and fishing boats, and passing famous monuments and historic minarets on shore. See two of the city's most famous landmarks setting on either side of the central Sultanahmet Park: Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque. The Hagia Sophia was built in the 6th century as a Christian church, before being converted to a mosque in the 1450s, mirroring the changing fortunes of the city itself. Both are elaborately decorated, visually spectacular, and of a scale that will leave you awestruck. ...
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    Tuesday - May 28, 2024
    Day
    3
    Istanbul, Turkey
    • Istanbul, Turkey
    This morning, visit two of the city's grandest royal residences, Topkapi Palace and Dolmabahce Palace. Then it's on to the colorful and chaotic Grand Bazaar, a vast undercover market made up of thousands of shops along wide plazas and tiny laneways. Traders have been coming here to sell their wares since the 15th century and it's still the place to buy ceramics, carpets, glassware, jewellery, and textiles. This afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Visit one of the city's excellent museums or galleries, hunt for antiques in the busy Cukurcuma neighborhood, inhale the aromas of the Spice Bazaar, or catch the bright red tram between the two main squares. Be sure to take some time out to indulge in the Turkish national pastime, tea drinking, ideally at a busy streetside cafe. ...
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    Wednesday - May 29, 2024
    Day
    4
    Istanbul, Turkey
    • Istanbul, Turkey
    • Bus Travel
    • Troy, Turkey
    • Bus Travel
    • Canakkale, Turkey
    Before you farewell Istanbul, take a moment this morning to listen out for the call to prayer before the sun rises. The traditional Muslim call rings out over the city five times a day and is a reminder of the nation's strong ties to its faith. In the relative calm and silence of the morning, it's a particularly moving sound. Travel along the Marmara Coast this morning bound for Canakkale. Sitting on the edge of the Dardanelles strait, Canakkale has been at the forefront of history for centuries. It's the gateway to the World War One battlefield of Gallipoli. En route you'll venture to a place that is shrouded in mystery and legend, the ancient city of Troy. For more than 3,000 years, the tales of Troy and the Trojan War were thought to be mythical, made most famous by Greek poet Homer's epic work, the Iliad. But in the late 19th century, the ruins of Troy were discovered in modern day Turkey and centuries of history were instantly rewritten. Take a tour through the 4,000-year-old ruins, see a giant replica of the famous Trojan Horse, and learn the true story behind this illustrious city. ...
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    Thursday - May 30, 2024
    Day
    5
    Canakkale, Turkey
    • Canakkale, Turkey
    • Bus Travel
    • Gallipoli, Turkey
    • Bus Travel
    • Canakkale, Turkey
    Today you are bound for Gallipoli, a site that holds a special place in the heart of Australians and New Zealanders. As the first major battle for ANZAC troops in the First World War, it was a brutal introduction to global conflict for the new nations. Though the Gallipoli campaign was ultimately a failure, the bravery and strength of the ANZAC soldiers became legendary and helped shape our cultural identity. The Gallipoli peninsula where the eight-month campaign took place is now a national park and your guide will take you through the most significant sites. Stand on the beach at ANZAC Cove, where the soldiers first came ashore on 25 April 1915. Contemplate the courage and sacrifice that took place at battlegrounds like Lone Pine and the Nek. Walk through some of the 31 cemeteries that dot the peninsula and where more than 10,000 Anzac soldiers are buried. A visit to Gallipoli is a moving experience that will stay with you long after you leave. ...
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    Friday - May 31, 2024
    Day
    6
    Canakkale, Turkey
    • Canakkale, Turkey
    • Bus Travel
    • Plovdiv, Bulgaria
    This morning sees us setting off towards the historic city of Plovdiv, Bulgaria's second-largest city. Originally founded more than 8,000 years ago the city offers a rich history from prehistoric times, through the Middle Ages and the Renaissance period right through to the present.
    Saturday - Jun 1, 2024
    Day
    7
    Plovdiv, Bulgaria
    • Plovdiv, Bulgaria
    Your local guide will be delighted to showcase this magnificent city including a visit to the Kapana district, also known as 'The Trap', which is lined with quaint, colorful buildings housing galleries, ateliers, and local shops. You'll also visit Tsar Simeon's Garden, a beautiful 19th-century garden complete with impressive fountains and sculptures, and visit the ancient amphitheater that dates back to the 2nd century AD. ...
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    Sunday - Jun 2, 2024
    Day
    8
    Plovdiv, Bulgaria
    • Plovdiv, Bulgaria
    • Bus Travel
    • Bucharest, Romania
    Depart Plovdiv after breakfast and journey towards the Romanian capital of Bucharest stopping along the way in a traditional Bulgarian village where you learn about the local way of life before a hearty lunch of typical Bulgarian cuisine.
    Monday - Jun 3, 2024
    Day
    9
    Bucharest, Romania
    • Bucharest, Romania
    • Bus Travel

    Cruise Segment of Itinerary

    Day 9 - Monday - Jun 3, 2024
    Day
    9
    Cruise Begins
    • Cruise Begins
    • Giurgiu, Romania
    Today, you'll explore the city of Bucharest, with a guided tour of the city by motorcoach. Travel from the south of Bucharest to Primaverii Palace, stopping to see its squares, including Union Square, University Square, Roman Square, Victory Square, and Charles de Gaulle Square. This afternoon, you will be transferred to Giurgiu, where you will be welcomed onboard your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship. ...
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    Tuesday - Jun 4, 2024
    Day
    10
    • Silistra, Bulgaria
    Arrive in Silistra early this morning, a Bulgarian town that played a significant role in the Russo-Turkish wars. Relax in the sunshine on the Sun Deck this afternoon as you enjoy the scenery of the Danube rolling by. Download the Scenic Tailormade app to listen to river commentary and gain insight to the villages and sites you're passing. ...
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    Wednesday - Jun 5, 2024
    Day
    11
    Rousse, Bulgaria
    • Rousse, Bulgaria
    This morning, you'll arrive in Rousse (or Ruse), which has been described as 'Little Vienna'. This afternoon, relax onboard as you continue to sail along the Danube. Mingle with other guests as you sit back with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar and soak up the scenery.
    Thursday - Jun 6, 2024
    Day
    12
    Iron Gates
    • Iron Gates
    Today, you will cruise through the spectacular scenery of the Iron Gates, a narrow gorge carved out between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains. This stretch of the Danube is the natural border between Serbia and Romania and features four narrow gorges, soaring cliffs, and the mighty rock carving of Decebalus, the former Romanian king. Spend some time relaxing in your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views to watch a rolling tapestry of river life as you cruise the Danube. Or perhaps you'd prefer to sweat it out in the state-of-the-art gym or take time out in the wellness center. ...
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    Friday - Jun 7, 2024
    Day
    13
    Belgrade, Serbia
    • Belgrade, Serbia
    Arrive in the capital of Serbia this morning. Belgrade is known as the 'Door to Central Europe' and lies at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. This eclectic city is steeped in history, with Neolithic ruins found nearby, a fortress built by the Romans, Brutalist buildings that sit beside Art Nouveau buildings, and a bohemian vibe. One of the oldest capitals in Europe, Belgrade has been rebuilt almost 40 times. This afternoon is free at leisure to explore Belgrade further. Soak up the bohemian culture with a wander along cobblestoned Skadarlija Street, a district once frequented by writers and artists and other creative souls, now home to traditional restaurants, local stores, and galleries. ...
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    Saturday - Jun 8, 2024
    Day
    14
    Osijek, Croatia
    • Osijek, Croatia
    Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive this morning in the Croatian town of Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history. Osijek was at the epicenter of the 1990s war, and its scars are still evident on its buildings today. After your touring this morning, all guests will visit the home of a typical Croatian family and have lunch with the family members. Immerse yourself in this cultural and culinary experience, and enjoy an authentic meal prepared with fresh vegetables from the host's garden. North-eastern Croatia is the 'bread basket' of the country, so it is only natural that the villagers take great pride in their gardens, from which ingredients are used to make a feast for both the palate and the eyes. ...
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    Sunday - Jun 9, 2024
    Day
    15
    • Meszesidunapart, Hungary
    • Bus Travel
    • Kalocsa, Hungary
    • Bus Travel
    • Meszesidunapart, Hungary
    This morning, you'll have free time onboard as you sail towards Kalocsa, one of the oldest towns in Hungary. This historic town has some of the richest folk art in the world and was an important agricultural center in the 19th century.
    Monday - Jun 10, 2024
    Day
    16
    Budapest, Hungary
    • Budapest, Hungary
    • Cruise Ends

    Land Segment of Itinerary

    Day 16 - Monday - Jun 10, 2024
    Day
    16
    Budapest, Hungary
    • Budapest, Hungary
    Today cruise into the mighty city of Budapest, you will be awe-struck by the sheer beauty of this city. Disembark your ship and join your local guide on a tour of the city. Your guided tour will finish at your hotel, where you will check in for your two-night stay.
    Tuesday - Jun 11, 2024
    Day
    17
    Budapest, Hungary
    • Budapest, Hungary
    Today, you'll have the entire day at your own leisure to explore this magical city. You may wish to cross the bridge between Buda and Pest to see Matthias Church, the iconic Fisherman's Bastion where you'll have enchanting views of Budapest, and the medieval town on Castle Hill, located on a limestone plateau 170 meters above the city. Or pack your swimsuit and make your way to one of the city's thermal baths for a relaxing soak in the therapeutic waters. Szechenyi Baths are the largest, boasting 15 indoor baths and three vast outdoor pools. ...
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    Wednesday - Jun 12, 2024
    Day
    18
    Budapest, Hungary
    • Budapest, Hungary
    After breakfast, transfer to Budapest Airport for your onward journey. 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.
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