Black Sea Explorer with Zagreb & Ljubljana on Scenic

Enjoy complimentary UK airport lounge access before your flight to Zagreb. On arrival, you'll be met and transferred to your city-centre hotel.  Located on the southern slopes of the Medvednica Mountains and on the banks of the Sava River, Croatia’s largest city is rich mix of European elegance and forward-thinking modernity. You'll have a first taste of what it has to offer as you spend the rest of the day exploring at your own pace.

Stay: Zagreb accommodation

This morning, you'll join your local guide for a tour of Zagreb, stopping to see the famous Cathedral. The tallest building in Croatia, this impressive landmark has two spires which can be seen from almost any point in the city. You'll also pass through the Stone Gate, the entrance to the upper town and Zagreb’s medieval centre, and visit Ban Jelacic Square at the heart of the city's modern district, a delightful contrast.

After some free time you'll then head out of Zagreb to Plitvice National park. Spend a wonderful afternoon exploring this World Heritage site, wandering along meandering pathways to views of emerald green lakes and impressive waterfalls. 

Stay: Zagreb accommodation

Today, you'llcross the border and journey to Ljubljana, the capital of Slovenia. Although small in size and population this city doesn’t lack charm. With its many colourful buildings such as the Franciscan Church, lively town squares and baroque architecture, Ljubljana is one of the hidden gems of this region.

Your local guide will immerse you in a discovery of the city sitting on the Ljubljanica River. Explore the treasures such as the Opera House, National Museum, Franciscan Church and St. Nicholas Cathedral.

Stay: Ljubljana accommodation

This morning journey to Bled, the small town surrounded by towering Alps and overlooking the glacial lake of the same name. Step back in time and take a traditional Pletna boat to the beautiful island sitting in the middle of Lake Bled. Visit the historic Church of St. Mary with its famous wishing well where you can ring the bell for good luck. 

Stay: Lake Bled accommodation

After breakfast this morning your journey continues as you are transferred to your Scenic Space-Ship where you will receive a warm welcome from your friendly crew.

Stay: Scenic river ship

Located on the Great Hungarian Plain, Kolocsa is one of the oldest towns in Hungary. Today you will have the opportunity to witness a traditional Puszta horse show. Be greeted by the horsemen of the Puszta region where this type of activity has been practised for centuries.

Stay: Scenic river ship

Explore Osijek on a city tour, or take a bike ride through Osijek’s countryside. Alternatively, explore one of Europe’s largest natural wetlands, Kopacki Rit, during a boat cruise or join a local and learn to make a traditional fish stew. Later, as a special Scenic guest, be invited into the home of a local family for a traditional home-cooked meal and the chance to discover what everyday life is really like in Croatia. With great food and wonderful company, this is a rare opportunity to meet people who understand the local way of life intimately.

Stay: Scenic river ship

Enjoy an in-depth city tour of one of Europe’s oldest capitals, Belgrade, including a visit to Tito’s Memorial, or take an orientation tour of Belgrade and see the highlights of the city before enjoying time at leisure to wander this beautiful location. Alternatively, choose a guided bicycle ride, or for a true insight into everyday life, take a walk through the city with a local student. Or, journey to Sremski Karlovci, where you can wander the town and marvel at the many beautiful Baroque elements. Later this evening, visit the largest orthodox temple in the Balkans, St. Sava and enjoy a choir performance in the Temple Crypt.

Stay: Scenic river ship

Relax and admire the spectacular scenery as you cruise through the Iron Gates, a narrow gorge that the Danube has carved out between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains. A magnificent setting for a cruise and the natural border between Serbia and Romania.

Stay: Scenic river ship

Discover the Byzantine gem of Veliko Tarnovo and the World Heritage-listed village of Arbanassi. Alternatively, stay on board and cruise towards the Bulgarian town of Rousse, where you’ll be treated to a guided sightseeing tour.

Stay: Scenic river ship

Discover Silistra Fort during an active walking tour, or take an excursion to Varna on the Black Sea coast. Alternatively, visit a local village and a local school, and learn about life in Bulgaria.

Stay: Scenic river ship

Bid a fond farewell to your crew as you disembark your Scenic Space-Ship and travel to the Romanian capital, Bucharest. Explore Bucharest and learn about its communist past including a tour of Ceausescu’s Spring Villa, or tour the Village Open Air Museum. Then, head to your hotel to enjoy an overnight stay.

Stay: Bucharest accommodation

After breakfast, transfer to Bucharest airport for your onwards flight.