Budapest to Bucharest Danube River All-Lesbian Cruise 2027
April 5 – 12, 2027
Avalon Waterways Avalon Illumination
Visit Five Eastern European Countries Along the Danube River. Experience the extraordinary destinations of Eastern Europe on this new and unique Danube River lesbian cruise through the Balkans, all in the company of your fellow Olivians. From Budapest to Bucharest, you’ll cruise through the rich landscapes and cultural locales of Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.
Embark on your Avalon Suite Ship in Budapest, the lively Hungarian capital, and sail into beautiful Croatia. Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour in Vukovar and discover Ilok with its 1,000-year-old winemaking tradition. Take a guided tour through Belgrade, the Serbian capital and one of Europe’s oldest cities, located where the Sava and Danube rivers meet.
Then continue your journey with a scenic cruise through the dramatic Iron Gates Gorge, the natural border between Serbia and Romania. Visit Bulgaria’s Belogradchik, and see the fascinating rock formations sculpted by natural elements for over 200 million years.
On an excursion to the ancient Bulgarian capital of Veliko Târnovo, you’ll visit Arbanassi’s Church of the Nativity, housing an impressive collection of frescoes. Each day brings new discoveries, as you relax in comfort aboard the luxurious Avalon Illumination designed for scenic cruising and meaningful connections.
Your Suite Ship - Avalon Illumination
Shining bright in Avalon's award-winning fleet of Suite Ships, the Avalon Illumination features two full decks of Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that transform your living space into river cruising's only Open-Air Balcony. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, affording you the incomparable opportunity to wake each morning to splendid passing scenery from your window-facing bed. Stretch out on your Comfort Collection bed and cruise with the world at your feet.
Onboard amenities include an alternative light dining option in the Panorama Bistro, a Fitness Center, complimentary Starlink wifi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, and light al fresco lunches at the Sky Bistro on the Sky Deck. Make yourself at home at the Club Lounge with a 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate, and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day. The Avalon Illumination truly shines on Europe's rivers.
Some of the features and amenities you'll enjoy onboard:
• An entirely non-smoking interior
• Lounge
• Covered Observation Lounge
• Beautiful bars and lounges
• Sun deck with premium lounge chairs and shade awnings
• Laundry service (not self-service; check pricing on board)
• Fitness center
• Panoramic windows throughout the ship
• Elegant, contemporary design throughout
• Elevator
• Bikes, walking sticks, binoculars, daypacks
• Maps for hiking, biking, and jogging routes
• Included shore excursions with local guides (tipping to guides/bus drivers not included)
• Headsets for shore excursions
• Complimentary wifi
• Space to relax & unwind
• Premium coffees, cappuccinos, and lattes
• Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate and premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
• A lounge serving premium spirits (extra charge)
• Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area, and premium lounges
• Daily early- and late-riser breakfast
• Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine, with complimentary juices and made-to-order egg station*
• Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Daily “Happy Hour” with complimentary alcoholic drinks as indicated on drink menu
• Al fresco lunches on the Sky Bistro
• Remarkable service throughout the cruise
• English-speaking crew
Dining & Drinks:
• Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
• Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
• Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
• Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
• Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
• Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast
• Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options, and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge
• Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
• Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts or cheese
• Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
• Complimentary alcoholic drinks during daily “Happy Hour” as specified on drink menu
• Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy, and allergy-free selections
• Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits*, cozy seating, panoramic windows, & dance floor
• Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés.
• Included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails, and a drink of the day as specified on the drink menu.
• Cocktails* with a view on the Sky Deck (weather permitting).
• Specialty coffees, espresso drinks, and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day. *Extra charge
Deluxe Staterooms & Suites Amenities:
• 172-300 sq. ft. Staterooms and Suites, some of the largest on the river
• Most with floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors
• Comfort Collection BedsSM
• Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
• Bathrobes & slippers
• Premium L'Occitane bath products
• Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
• Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
• Individual climate control and in-room safe
• Full-size closet and mirror
• Additional under-bed storage
• Well-stocked mini-bar
• Nonallergenic duvets and pillows
• Filtered water replenished in bottles daily
• And, much more
Budapest to Bucharest Danube River Lesbian Cruise Itinerary
Date
Port
Meals
05 Apr
Budapest, Hungary
D
06 Apr
Ilok / Vukovar, Croatia / Novi Sad, Serbia
B, L, D
07 Apr
Novi Sad, Serbia
B, L, D
08 Apr
Belgrade, Serbia
B, L, D
09 Apr
Golubac / Donji Milanovac / Iron Gates, Serbia
B, L, D
10 Apr
Vidin / Belogradchik, Bulgaria
B, L, D
11 Apr
Rousse / Veliko Tarnovo / Arbanassi, Bulgaria
B, L, D
12 Apr
Oltenita (Bucharest), Romania
B
Itinerary is subject to change based on river level, traffic, and locks.
You can enjoy three types of included shore excursion experiences. Classic tours guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. Discovery tours are inspiring and interactive activities (such as cooking classes or painting workshops) that allow you to immerse yourself in each culture you explore. Active tours allow you to embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on-the-go such as a guided jogging tour or biking and hiking.
Budapest, Hungary (Embarkation) Monday, April 5, 2027
Welcome to Hungary! Your Suite Ship is ready for boarding. Flights into Budapest must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. Begin your journey in Budapest, the dazzling “Pearl of the Danube”. This vibrant capital enchants with its grand architecture and thermal baths. From the majestic Parliament building to the twinkling lights of the Chain Bridge, Budapest sets the stage for an unforgettable adventure down the Danube.
We will offer a pre-cruise vacation stretcher in Budapest.
Overnight cruise to Vukovar.
Official check-in will be available in the late afternoon. If arriving to the ship prior to check-in, you can board the ship after 8:30 am, drop off your luggage, and enjoy the lounge with small snacks and coffee, tea, and water. You can also venture out on your own to enjoy Budapest or choose an optional afternoon tour. Suites and staterooms will be available to access after 4 pm.
Ilok / Vukovar, Croatia / Novi Sad, Serbia Tuesday, April 6, 2027
Vukovar invites you to witness resilience and beauty along the Danube, where baroque architecture and poignant memorials tell the story of a city reborn. Enjoy a brief cruise to Ilok while having lunch onboard. Ilok, Croatia’s easternmost gem, is a wine lover’s paradise wrapped in medieval elegance.
Overnight docking in Novi Sad
Discovery: Take a guided walking tour through Vukovar to uncover its cultural roots and traditions, topped off with a local beer tasting experience.
Classic: Explore Vukovar’s rich history and vibrant culture on a guided city tour that highlights its enduring heritage and charm.
Classic: Discover Ilok’s 1,000-year-old winemaking legacy on a guided tour through its historic streets and medieval fortress, a treasured symbol of Croatian heritage. Enjoy a wine tasting in a local cellar while soaking in stories of tradition and the natural beauty of Eastern Croatia.
Active: Venture through Ilok on a guided bike tour that traces the city walls, visits the central church and town museum, and leads you to the elegant Principovac Castle and Estate.
Novi Sad, Serbia Wednesday, April 7, 2027
Known for its elegant architecture, café culture, and the stunning Petrovaradin Fortress, Novi Sad is a cultural gem that radiates warmth and creativity.
Overnight cruise to Belgrade.
Classic: Discover the charm of Serbia’s second-largest city on a guided tour through Novi Sad’s Austro-Hungarian old town, where baroque architecture and historic fortifications tell stories of a rich past.
Active: Set out on a guided hike through the Petrovaradin district, perched across the Danube, and take in sweeping views and cultural landmarks that make this area truly unforgettable.
Discovery: Dive into the sweet side of Novi Sad with a guided visit to the Honey Museum, where you’ll learn about the art of beekeeping and sample delicious local honey specialties.
Belgrade, Serbia Thursday, April 8, 2027
Belgrade is bold, gritty, and full of soul. Situated where the Danube meets the Sava, it’s a city that never sleeps—offering centuries of history, buzzing nightlife, and an energy that’s impossible to ignore.
Spend your afternoon exploring Belgrade at your own pace along Knez Mihailova Street, the city’s lively pedestrian zone filled with cafés, shops, and cultural gems. This evening, consider joining an optional excursion for a traditional Bohemian dinner in the atmospheric Skadarlija Quarter.
Overnight cruise to Golubac
Classic: Take a guided sightseeing tour of Belgrade, where the Danube and Sava Rivers meet, and explore iconic landmarks including the magnificent Saint Sava Church—one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
Active: Stroll through Belgrade’s vibrant central walkway, soaking in the city’s energy and charm.
Discovery: Enrich your understanding of the Balkans with an onboard lecture that delves into the region’s fascinating history, diverse destinations, and cultural heritage.
Golubac / Donji Milanovac / Iron Gates, Serbia Friday, April 9, 2027
Sail through one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Danube as you pass Golubac and Donji Milanovac, Serbia, and into the dramatic Iron Gates Gorge. Towering cliffs, medieval fortresses, and winding river passages showcase the raw beauty and rich history of this legendary region. Enjoy a Classic tour option today.
Later, sail through the breathtaking Iron Gates Gorge—a narrow, awe-inspiring passage that marks the natural border between Serbia and Romania.
Afternoon/overnight cruise to Vidin.
Classic: Step back in time with a visit to the remarkably preserved Fortress of Golubac, a medieval stronghold that once served as a strategic border defense and witnessed centuries of conflict between Serbia, the Habsburg Monarchy, and the Ottoman Empire. Continue your journey to the Mesolithic site of Lepenski Vir, offering stunning views of the dramatic Danube Gorge.
Vidin / Belogradchik, Bulgaria Saturday, April 10, 2027
Discover Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest riverside towns, where history and charm meet along the Danube. Journey to the nearby Belogradchik Rocks, a stunning natural wonder of towering sandstone formations crowned by the ancient Belogradchik Fortress, offering unforgettable panoramic views.
Afternoon/overnight cruise to Rousse.
Active: Pedal through Vidin on a guided bike tour with your Adventure Host, taking in the city's highlights from a fresh perspective.
Classic: Step into history with a guided visit to Baba Vida Fortress, followed by a scenic tour of Belogradchik, where you'll be awed by the surreal rock formations shaped over 200 million years by nature’s hand.
Discovery: Uncover over two centuries of Bulgarian winemaking tradition with a tour and tasting at a local winery, where you'll sample regional wines in the atmospheric cellars.
Rousse / Veliko Tarnovo / Arbanassi, Bulgaria Sunday, April 11, 2027
Explore Rousse, Bulgaria’s elegant “Little Vienna,” known for its grand architecture and vibrant riverfront. Venture to Arbanassi and nearby Veliko Tarnovo, where cobblestone streets, traditional houses, and the medieval Tsarevet’s Fortress bring Bulgaria’s rich past vividly to life.
Later, enjoy a lively onboard performance featuring traditional Bulgarian folklore.
Overnight cruise to Oltenita
Active: Discover the charm of Rousse’s historic center on a guided bike tour with your Adventure Host, weaving through its scenic streets and landmarks.
Classic: Embark on a full-day guided tour to Veliko Târnovo, the former Bulgarian capital, where ancient stone homes perch above the Yantra River. Explore one of Bulgaria’s oldest towns and admire the 15th-century Bulgarian Revival architecture in nearby Arbanassi.
Classic: Take a guided sightseeing tour of Bulgaria’s largest inland port, including a visit to the impressive Holy Trinity Church. Then, enjoy a short scenic drive to the UNESCO-listed rock-hewn churches of Ivanovo, carved into the cliffs with centuries of history etched into their walls.
Oltenita (Bucharest), Romania (Disembarkation) Monday, April 12, 2027
Your cruise ends in Oltenita, Romania with breakfast this morning. Your cruise includes a group transfer from the ship in Oltenita to Bucharest Henri Coanda International Airport limits (OTP) on April 12, 2027 for flights departing after 10 am. Should you have a flight departing earlier than 10 am, the taxi cost can be upwards of 85 euros ($100 USD). The ship will be happy to assist in arranging for a taxi at a specific time.
We will offer a post-cruise vacation stretcher in Bucharest.
Budapest to Bucharest Danube River Lesbian Cruise 2027 Rates
Category
Description
Reg. Rate US $
Early Bird US $
Availability
RS - Royal Suite
Located on the Royal Deck, the Royal Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, a comfort collection bed that can convert into two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full-sized bathroom with marble counter and two sinks, robes, slippers, writing desk, chair, sofa, coffee table and full-length closets. (300 square feet)
$ 10,969
$ 8,399
P - Panorama Suite
Located on the Royal Deck, this Panorama Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, a comfort collection bed that can convert into two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full-sized bathroom with marble counter, full shower with glass door, robes, slippers, writing desk, chair, sofa, coffee table and full-length closets. (200 square feet)
$ 8,099
$ 6,999
A - Panorama Suite
Located on the Sapphire Deck, this Panorama Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, a comfort collection bed that can convert into two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full-sized bathroom with marble counter, full shower with glass door, robes, slippers, writing desk, chair, sofa, coffee table and full-length closets. (200 square feet)
$ 7,999
$ 6,899
B - Panorama Suite
Located on the Sapphire Deck, this Panorama Suite features floor-to-ceiling windows, sliding glass doors, a comfort collection bed that can convert into two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full-sized bathroom with marble counter, full shower with glass dorr, robes, slippers, writing desk, chair, sofa, coffee table and full-length closets. (200 square feet)
$ 7,899
$ 6,799
D - Deluxe Stateroom
Located on the Indigo Deck, this Deluxe Stateroom features small windows, a comfort collection bed that can convert to two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full shower with glass doors, robes, slippers, writing desk and chiar, and full-length closets. Windows are high on the wall and do not open. Room is below the water line. (172 square feet)
$ 5,899
$ 5,099
E - Deluxe Stateroom
Located on the Indigo Deck, this Deluxe Stateroom features small windows, a comfort collection bed that can convert to two singles, soft and firm pillows, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, flat-screen satellite TV with movie channels, telephone, mini-bar, full shower with glass doors, robes, slippers, writing desk and chiar, and full-length closets. Windows are high on the wall and do not open. Room is below the water line. (172 square feet)
We will offer a pre-cruise vacation stretcher in Budapest and a post-cruise vacation stretcher in Bucharest. More information will be available approximately 9 months prior to the trip.
Special Airfares
Rates: Prices are per person based on double occupancy. Pricing does not include airfare, insurance, fuel surcharge or NDA of $499 pp (subject to change).
Early Bird Price Expires September 30, 2026
We accept Visa, Mastercard or Discover card.
• Pay in full
• 6-month interest free payment plan (20% deposit and 5 installments)
All vacations on payment plan must be paid in full six months or 180 days before your trip. If reservation is made at the six-month mark or less, payment in full will be required.
Availability updated weekly and is provided for informational purposes only.It is advised for guests to check information provided on this site with our Travel Consultant.
CANCELLATION FEES:
- 365 days or more prior to trip date:: 50% of trip cost
- 0–364 days prior to trip date: 100% of trip cost (no refund)
