Veliko Tarnovo

One of Bulgaria’s most stunning medieval towns, Veliko Tarnovo perches astride three hills overlooking the dramatic gorge of the river Yantra. Here you’ll see the ancient fortress of Tsarevets with its far-reaching walls that encircle the Royal Palace, the Church of the Blessed Saviour, and the monastery with its grisly Execution Rock.

Explore Veliko Tarnovo’s winding historic streets and admire the commanding views before enjoying lunch at a typical Bulgarian restaurant. If time permits, you may also visit the nearby town of Arbanassi, home to quaint, painted churches and unusual, fortress-style houses.

Walking Grade 3. Lunch Included.

6 hours

Pleven panoramic tour and Puszta

Enjoy a scenic journey by coach across the Danubian Plain to the town of Pleven, on the River Vit, a tributary of the Danube.

In 1877, when Bulgaria was trying to escape Ottoman rule in the War of Liberation, the town was under siege for five months. The event is depicted in a vast circular panoramic painting which was opened to the public in 1977, the centenary of the siege.

You’ll walk through the town with your guide to the Pleven Panorama and afterwards enjoy a glass of Bulgarian wine at a hotel

Walking Grade 3

4 hours 30 minutes

Mohács Walking Tour

Walk from the ship into the city centre via the Jewish quarter. Visit the Busó yard where you can browse handicraft shops and observe mask carving demonstrations. See the Nagyasszonya temple and sculptures of Szechenyi Square and enjoy included entrance to the Kanizsai Dorottya Museum where you’ll see a variety of Hungarian costume.

You’ll have some free time before returning to the ship.

Walking Grade 3

3 hours

Kalocsa and Puszta

Discover traditional Hungary during this fascinating full-day excursion into the Puszta or Great Hungarian Plain. In this historic home of gulyas - cattle herdsmen, csikos - horsemen, and Hungarian Roma, the cattle, horses, sheep and buffalo roam free, controlled only by skilled riders. You'll be treated to astonishing displays of horsemanship that date back centuries, where the necessity for horses to lie down on command ensured survival in times of war.

Afterwards you will have an opportunity to ride in a horse-drawn carriage, and be offered a nip of local brandy and savoury scones. Refreshments are included. Later continue to Kalocsa and find out more about the Hungarian way of life with a visit to the Folk Art House to see wall and furniture painting in a former peasant’s cottage. You’ll also enjoy lunch and learn about the significance of the favourite regional spice with a visit to the Paprika Museum.

Walking Grade 2

Full day

Gödöllo Palace

Gödöllo Palace, the second largest baroque palace in the world. This palace was the former summer residence of Queen Elisabeth & Franz Joseph, the Hapsburg Emperor & King of Hungary, which reflects their resplendent lifestyle.

Explore the interior of the palace with set rooms that tell the story of this royal family through magnificent pictures, furniture and artefacts. You can also enjoy the huge gardens of this restored palace & gain insight into the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

Walking Grade 2

4 hours

Lazar Equestrian Park Horse Farm

This excursion will take you to the Lazar Equestrian Park, owned by the world champion horse and carriage drivers, the Lazar brothers.

After refreshments, you'll take your seats for a fascinating show demonstrating exceptional horsemanship: there'll be commentary in English to explain about the horses and the skills required. Afterwards you can take a carriage ride around the park.

You also have the chance to visit the stables where the Lazar's champion horses are kept.

Walking Grade 1

4 hours