Gödöllo Palace

The second largest baroque palace in the world, Gödöllo Palace was the former summer residence of Queen Elizabeth and Franz Joseph, Hapsburg Emperor and King of Hungary between 1867 and 1916. Gain an insight into the Austro-Hungarian Empire and the couple’s lavish lifestyle as you explore the interior, the Palace Theatre and gardens.

Walking Grade 2

Four 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

Pleven Panoramic

Enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque Danubian Plain to the town of Pleven, which stands on the River Vit, a tributary of the Danube. The town is famous for the Siege of Pleven in 1877, one of the most decisive victories in the War of Liberation that freed Bulgaria from Ottoman rule. Known as Sorgoziya in Roman times, it has Thracian origins. See the Pleven Epopee 1877, a vast circular painting representing the Siege of Pleven and based on Moscow's Borodin Panorama. Opened to the public on the centenary of the siege in 1977, it's one of the largest, panoramic paintings in the world. Later take a stroll through the town centre and partake of a glass of Bulgarian wine in the Balkan Hotel. Wine Tasting included.

Walking Grade 3

Four-and-a-half hours

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.

Six hours

Lazar Equestrian Park

Travel to the Lazar Equestrian Park, owned by the world champion horse and carriage drivers, the Lazar brothers. After refreshments enjoy a fascinating show demonstrating exceptional horsemanship. Afterwards, take a carriage ride around the park, followed by a walk through the yard to see local breeds of livestock and visit to the stables where the Lazar's champion horses are kept.

Walking Grade 1

Four hours

Tour of Rousse

After a short drive through the beautiful valley of the Lom River you can visit the only active rock monastery in Bulgaria. Situated 10 kilometres south of Rousse, it is devoted to a local saint, St Dimitrius of Bassarbovo. Once there, a short stone staircase will lead you to an extraordinary rock church and a rock cave where the monk lived in the 17th century.

After this visit you will be taken back to the city where you will enter the Holy Trinity Church to hear its turbulent history followed by a guided walk through the town. During the visit to Liberty square you'll be treated to a small Bulgarian snack with the local wine or coffee.

Walking Grade 3

Three-and-a-half hours

Budapest Culinary Walking Tour

Your tour begins with a tram ride to the First Strudel House, where you can enjoy a video about the traditions of strudel-making in Hungary followed by a live demonstration of how to prepare, stretch and fill the dough – with instructions in English. Perhaps try your own hand at the skill and then relax with a hot drink while you wait for your creations to bake. After enjoying your strudel, take a walk through the city to enjoy some authentic chimney cake and after a brief stop continue to the Central Market Hall where you can try some authentic Hungarian salami before you return to your ship by tram.

Walking Grade 4

Four hours