Budapest to Bucharest Danube River All-Gay Cruise 2026 - Happy Gay Travel

Budapest to Bucharest Danube All-Gay Cruise 2026

Budapest to Bucharest
Danube River All-Gay Cruise

August 12 – 20, 2026

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Budapest to Bucharest Danube River All-Gay Cruise 2026

8 nights from Budapest, Hungary to Bucharest, Romania

August 12 – 20, 2026
Lüftner Cruises Amadeus Nova (or similar)

Budapest Danube Gay Cruise All-inclusive, 7-night deluxe Danube river cruise aboard an Amadeus riverboat, with 1 deluxe post-cruise night in Bucharest. Your all-gay, all-inclusive, guaranteed full ship charter adventure begins in Budapest, where you’ll board Amadeus’ newest addition to their line of luxury riverboats. From Budapest, we cruise down one of Europe’s most fabled rivers, the Danube. Touch history in Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, as you sail along the exotic lower Danube.

Filled with natural wonder and wildlife, this section of the Danube River also divides the Capathian Mountains at the imposing “Iron Gates” gorge and meets the Black Sea’s natural estuary.

Experience the extraordinary destinations of Central and Eastern Europe on this Danube River cruise adventure. Take a fascinating guided tour of the Serbian capital of Belgrade, one of the oldest cities in Europe. Cruise through the dramatic views of Iron Gates Gorge - a natural border between Serbia and Romania.

Finish with a post-cruise tour and an overnight stay in the vibrant metropolis and Romanian capital of Bucharest.

This cruise vacation has it all – historic sites, charming towns, world-class wine and cuisine and more!

Budapest to Bucharest Danube River Gay Cruise Highlights

• Sail aboard a new Amadeus luxury river ship, with the latest technologies and design.

• City lights evening cruise through Budapest - View highlights of the best-lit cities in Europe while cruising from the comforts of your riverboat

• Matthias Church – one of the finest churches in Budapest, and the most unique churches in Europe.

• Széchenyi Chain Bridge – the twin-towered bridge opened in 1849 and was the first bridge linking Buda.

• Discover the breathtakingly beautiful Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Tour Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia.

• Kopacki Rit, one of the largest wetlands in Europe and home to rich birdlife, animals, and plants.

Budapest to Bucharest Danube River Gay Cruise Inclusions

• FROM THE TIME YOU LAND UNTIL YOU LEAVE, NEARLY EVERYTHING IS INCLUDED

• Guaranteed all-LGBT+ charter aboard a luxurious Amadeus riverboat

• Transfer from the Budapest airport to your hotel or the ship

• Overnight in Budapest with an evening city lights cruise

• ½ day guided walking tour in Budapest

• 7 nights cruise accommodation

• Complimentary beer, wine, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise

• Superb Dining: all meals included during your cruise

• Complimentary shore excursions offered daily

• Brand g signature entertainment

• One post-cruise night at the Radisson Blu in Bucharest

• Half-day guided tour of Bucharest

• Transfer from the Radisson Blu to the Bucharest airport

Your Ship - Brand New Amadeus Nova

The Amadeus Nova redefines the art of river cruising. Debuting in 2024, this ship not only features pioneering technical innovations – underlining Amadeus’ commitment to a green future – it revolutionizes comfort on board, offering more space, luxury, and modern design than ever before.

The AMADEUS Nova. Indulge your passion for luxurious, environmentally sustainable travel. With the AMADEUS Nova, your passion for luxury travel seamlessly blends with your love for nature. Join us on board in 2024 and explore the most captivating cities and landscapes along the Danube while embracing a cleaner future.

Featuring the latest in pioneering technical innovations, our latest AMADEUS ship underlines our commitment to the green future of river cruising. AMADEUS newest vessel features a hybrid diesel-electric engine, solar panels for clean energy, and a powerful system for efficient heat recovery. At the same time, we have also redefined comfort on board, offering more space, luxury, and modern design.

More Space for the Love of Luxury
If you have experienced the AMADEUS Cara or Riva, the Nova will feel remarkably familiar. The deck plan remains similar, yet everything exudes an unexpectedly spacious and refreshingly new ambiance. The Nova has earned her name for a reason, some key features makes her truly exceptional:

• Heated swimming pool on the sundeck and even more open-air areas

• Many open areas and far more space than ever before

• Every suite has floor-to-ceiling windows with a private balcony where you become one with nature

• 5-star amenities that meets your demands for luxury and comfort more than ever

A Wide Variety for Your Palate
Enjoy a light and airy lunch at the AMADEUS Lounge, sweeten your afternoon in the Café Vienna, savor each bite in while dining in the Panorama Restaurant, and enjoy a cocktail under the stars at the Lido Bar on the Sun Deck.

With numerous breathtaking spots on the AMADEUS Nova, you will always find a new favorite place to discover.

Entertainment

On a Brand g European river cruise, every night is opening night. Our cruises always include two featured acts (occasionally three) who provide nightly entertainment throughout the cruise.

Although the focus of our cruises is mainly on sightseeing and socializing, we do like to mix in a bit of frivolity as well. With that in mind, we’re planning a couple of themed deck parties during the cruise. If you should choose to participate great, if you’d rather just be a voyeur that is totally fine as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I schedule my flights?
Arrivals:
You should schedule your flights to arrive in Budapest (BUD) by Wednesday August 12th, 2026. Embarkation will begin at 4:00 PM on August 12th.
Departures:
You should plan to fly home from Bucharest (BUH) on or after August 20th anytime. Check-out of the hotel is 12:00 PM on August 20th.

Or, you may choose to extend your stay in Bucharest with our post-cruise hotel nights at the Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest.

What arrival and departure transfers are included?
Arrival transfers are provided from the Budapest Airport (BUD) to the ship or a Budapest hotel.
are provided from the Radisson Blu in Bucharest to the airport (BUH).

If you extend your stay at the Radisson Blu in Bucharest, you will still be provided with a transfer from the hotel to the airport at the end of your stay. If you extend your stay at another Bucharest hotel, we will provide your transfer to that hotel. Onward transfers will need to be arranged independently.

Contact our team to ensure arrangements outside of these arrival and departure transfers will be included. Booked guests should provide their arrival and departure details 45 days prior to the trip to ensure transfer availability.

What should I expect on the included shore excursions?
Excursions during your travel program are mostly in groups of 25 people led by expert English speaking local guides. Utilizing wireless audio guides enables you to hear every word of your travel guide at absolutely all times. It provides maximum flexibility and convenience without missing a moment of fascinating commentary and is compatible with hearing aids.

What if I have dietary requirements?
We will make every effort to accommodate special dietary requests. Please inform our office at least 45 days prior to departure of these requests.

Will there be smoking areas?
The comfort and safety of our guests is our first priority. Smoking is not permitted in the suites or enclosed, public areas on board. There is a designated smoking area on the Sun Deck. Land properties will have designated smoking areas.

Is there a dress code?
You are on vacation and the last thing we want to impose is a dress code. We will however appreciate you wearing more than a thong or mankini at dinner and in the bar/performance area. Be as dressed up or down as you see fit as long as you are comfortable and dress appropriately for changeable weather.

What weather can I expect from this trip?
During August, Europe is at the peak of the summer heat. The days can reach the mid 90s and the evenings are in generally in the 70s.

What are pre-paid gratuities?
Gratuities are customary expressions of appreciation for a job well done. It is our goal to ensure that the service you receive is as wonderful as the sites you visit. Gratuities for the included portions of this program have been pre-paid. At your own discretion you may choose to provide additional tips.

What are the passport and visa requirements?
Citizens of the US and Canada are required to have a valid passport, which expires at least 6 months after their last day in European Union. Starting in 2025, the European Commission will roll out a U.S. style electronic travel authorization system for visitors from countries that are currently not part of the EU.
For more information and to apply visit the ETIAS website.

Citizens of all other countries should check with the European Union consulate in their home country to verify entry requirements.

Budapest to Bucharest Danube River All-Gay Cruise 2026 Itinerary
Date	Port	Meals
12 Aug	Budapest, Hungary	D
13 Aug	Budapest, Hungary	B, L, D
14 Aug	Vukovar, Croatia	B, L, D
15 Aug	Belgrade, Serbia	B, L, D
16 Aug	Golubac / Donji Milanovac, Serbia	B, L, D
17 Aug	Svishtov / Rousse / Giurgiu	B, L, D
18 Aug	Harsova, Romania	B, L, D
19 Aug	Fetesti / Bucharest, Romania (Disembarkation)	B, L
20 Aug	Bucharest, Romania	B

Day 1 - Budapest, Hungary (Embarkation)
Arrive in Budapest and board your Amadeus river boat. Embarkation will begin at approximately 3:00 PM
Dinner

Day 2 - Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, the "Queen of the Danube", is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and has managed to retain a charm of its own with the help of renovations in recent years. The Danube flows through the heart of the city, dividing it into two parts: Buda and Pest. The tour first takes you through Pest, past the Great Market Hall with its outstanding gourmet shops and stalls.

You will see splendid Baroque buildings such as the Hungarian State Opera in Neo-Renaissance style and the incomparable parliament building, which was finished in 1904 and has been an emblem of the city ever since then. There’s an opportunity for a photo stop at the Heroes’ Square, famous for its monuments to many Hungarian kings.

Continue across one of the seven bridges into Buda and go up to Castle Hill, where you will visit St. Matthew’s Church and the famous Fisherman’s Bastion (provided that it is open to the public). Enjoy the unforgettable view over the city before returning to the vessel.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3 - Vukovar, Croatia
In eastern Croatia, Vukovar serves as your gateway to the natural world. In the afternoon, your excursion starts in baroque Vukovar and takes you to Kopacki Rit, one of the largest wetlands in Europe and home to rich birdlife, animals, and plants. A boat takes you through untouched moors and a virgin floodplain where nature thrives.

In the village of Kopacevo, you can sample Croatian fruit brandies and wines, before you continue your drive to the village of Osijek for a walk through the town. Back in Vukovar, board the ship and enjoy a leisurely dinner as we cruise to Belgrade.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 - Belgrade, Serbia
A new day dawns in a new country. Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia, retains a western influence while remaining true to its deep cultural roots and history. During a morning sightseeing tour, visit Kalemegdan Fortress located at the confluence of the Sava and the Danube with breathtaking views and unforgettable stories.

Afterwards, discover the true personality of this city and see the National Museum, the Parliament, and the St. Sava Cathedral, the largest Orthodox church in the world. After lunch, accompany us to Topola and Oplenac and trace the heritage of the Serbian royal family.

In the evening, take a private bus through Belgrade, enjoying the dazzling city lights and an evening at an authentic Serbian folklore performance.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 - Golubac / Donji Milanovac, Serbia
Donji Milanovac is a town on the right coast of the Danube, located at 75m altitude, in the central part of Djerdap. Archaeological site Lepenski vir (Lepen Whirl) was discovered in 1965, on the very coast of the Danube. It is 15km far from Donji Milanovac. That was one of the most significant discoveries of this kind in Serbia. Its culture is about 8000 years old and it represented the unknown for archeologists. It was named after the location where it had been discovered. There are several key characteristics that make this place distinct from other cultures.

Here, people had been living for 2000 years. During that time, they underwent the evolution from hunters and fruit gatherers to an organized social and economic community. Its residents were the first town planners and builders because they built houses which had a trapezoidal shape in its basis, covered with wooden structure, leaves and wild animal skins. They possessed a fireplace, a small altar and stone sculptures which represented their divinities. The very sculptures became a distinguishing characteristic of Lepen Whirl throughout the world. In addition to that, they represent the oldest art of this kind in Europe. Lepenski Vir (Lepen Whirl) is one of the greatest and most significant Mesolithic and Neolithic archeological sites.

It is located on the right coast of the Danube in Djerdapska Klisura (The Iron Gates). This locality, which was named after the Danube whirl, was the center of one of the most important and most complex cultures of pre-history. During the excavation, seven successive settlements and 136 objects ( both housing and sacral) were discovered. They were built in the period from 6500 to 5500 BC.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 6 - Svishtovb / Rousse / Giurgiu, Bulgaria
Located along the Danube River in northern Bulgaria, Svishtov is a charming town known for its historical significance and beautiful riverside setting. It hosts the Svishtov Monastery and landmarks like the Tsenov Academy of Economics, one of the country’s leading educational institutions. Svishtov also boasts rich cultural traditions and a strategic position as a Danube port.

Rousse, often called the “Little Vienna” of Bulgaria, is celebrated for its stunning architecture inspired by Austro-Hungarian styles. Located on the Danube, it serves as a major cultural, commercial, and transport hub. Key highlights include the Rousse Regional Historical Museum, Freedom Monument, and the Danube Bridge, which connects Bulgaria with Romania.

Giurgiu is a vital port and gateway to Bulgaria via the Friendship Bridge. It features notable landmarks like the Clock Tower, reflecting Ottoman influence, and its vibrant markets. Giurgiu’s riverside promenades and parks offer scenic views of the Danube, making it an important cross-border connection point in the region.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 7 - Harsova, Romania
From Hârsova, discover the breathtakingly beautiful Danube Delta, one of the largest wetland biotopes in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 - Fetesti / Bucharest, Romania (Disembarkation)
You leave your AMADEUS ship in Festesti after breakfast – but your journey does not end there. A transfer will take you to another adventure on land: Bucharest.

Get ready to explore the capital city of Romania, which has developed its very own charm with a lively cityscape and colorful mix of buildings from different eras.

After an included lunch, spend an afternoon sightseeing in this vibrant metropolis of two million people. We’ll then make our way to the hotel for check-in and a farewell gathering with cocktails and canapes.
Breakfast, Lunch & Farewell Gathering

Day 9 - Bucharest, Romania
Extend your stay in Bucharest on your own or take advantage of our included airport transfers. Breakfast is included at the hotel.
Breakfast

Hotel

Radisson Blu Hotel Bucharest
August 19 - 20, 2026
Located in the heart of Bucharest, on well-known boulevard Calea Victoriei, Radisson Blu Hotel, Bucharest stands out for its elegant appearance, modern design and luxury settings. The hotel offers the largest room inventory with different room categories and services, a shopping area, a variety of restaurants and bars, a luxurious Spa, and a collaboration partnership with Romanian renowned health club with an indoor pool and whirlpool.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Bucharest is 300 m away from the Concert Hall of the Romanian Athenaeum and steps away from discovering the beauty of the National Art Museum.

Enjoy a premium beach vacation experience at our outdoor swimming pool and heated jacuzzi in our NAMI Beach Club & more, the largest one in the heart of Bucharest. Our hotel guests can benefit of a special entry fee.

Radisson Blu Hotel, Bucharest offers 462 rooms and suites with contemporary design with a diverse set of restaurants, Aristocool, the hotel’s lobby lounge bar which offers crafted mixologist cocktails and detailed, delightful comfort food.

The guests can also relax in an area of harmony and tranquility, where the wellness and beauty emerge into a feeling of revealing and rejuvenating escape of the daily routine at THAIco SPA.

Romania’s largest health & fitness club chain, World Class, equipped with the latest gym technology of international standards, a 22 m indoor swimming pool and whirlpool, where hotel guests can make use of its facilities free of charge.