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. ... Read More
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. ... Read More
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. ... Read More
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. ... Read More
Thursday - Sep 19, 2024
Day 5
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. ... Read More
Friday - Sep 20, 2024
Day 6
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 - Sep 21, 2024
Day 7
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. ... Read More
Sunday - Sep 22, 2024
Day 8
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 - Sep 23, 2024
Day 9
Bucharest, Romania
Bus Travel
Cruise Segment of Itinerary
Day 9 - Monday - Sep 23, 2024
Day 9
Cruise Begins
Giurgiu, Romania
Today, you'll explore the city of Bucharest, with your selected Scenic Freechoice followed by 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. ... Read More
Tuesday - Sep 24, 2024
Day 10
Silistra, Bulgaria
Arrive in Silistra early this morning, a Bulgarian town that played a significant role in the Russian-Turkish wars.
Wednesday - Sep 25, 2024
Day 11
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 - Sep 26, 2024
Day 12
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. ... Read More
Friday - Sep 27, 2024
Day 13
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. ... Read More
Saturday - Sep 28, 2024
Day 14
Osijek, Croatia
Today, you will visit Osijek, a small city with a turbulent history. Osijek was at the epicentre 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. ... Read More
Sunday - Sep 29, 2024
Day 15
Meszesidunapart, Hungary
Your space ship will arrive early this morning in 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.
After breakfast, prepare to head home. It may be the end of your journey, but it's the beginning of a lifetime of fond memories. 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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Unless otherwise indicated above, all cruise rates are per person, double occupancy, cruise-only without airfare, do not include government taxes and fees and quoted in in U.S. dollars. Ponant Cruises rates are based on foreign currencies that are converted to USD based on today's exchange rates. Rates are subject to availability, can vary by ship and sailing date, and for new bookings only. Fares are capacity controlled, and subject to change without notice. Port charges are included. Prices do not include additional service charges; Travel Insurance; and applicable government taxes & fees unless otherwise specified in the offer. Surcharges and fees implemented by a travel supplier, even after the reservation is made, will be the sole responsibility of each traveler and is due and payable in full prior to departure. Certain promotions which may include amenities like shipboard credits, pre-paid gratuities, drink packages or other packages may be available by category, room type or fare code and may not be combinable with other promotions. For any questions, please consult one of our cruise specialists for applicability and verification. All prices, inclusions & promotions listed on the web-site are current at the time they we published and are subject to change without advance notice. Arrivia, Inc., its subsidiaries, and partners are not responsible for last minute changes to price or itinerary by cruise lines, or for any errors or omissions in the content of this website.
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