A region steeped in the history of ancient trade routes, today the rivers of the Rhine, Main and Danube meander through forested hillsides, idyllic vineyards and romantic towns. Cruise the canals of Amsterdam, pass through the magnificent Rhine Gorge, walk the WWII sites of Nuremberg and taste your way around Budapest’s famed Central Market. Along the Lower Danube, go behind the Iron Curtain to cruise through untouched lands punctuated by towns and cities that still look as they might have over a hundred years ago. Authentic encounters will introduce you to local people so you can hear their stories and experience a taste of everyday life in the heart of Europe. See the hidden gems of the Balkans, from the eclectic Serbian city of Belgrade to the well-preserved Baroque town of Osijek in Croatia, cruising through narrow gorges and soaring cliffs of the Iron Gate. Extend your cruise with a five-day journey through Transylvania to discover a land of ancient myths and immortal literature, where medieval villages and gothic castles are hidden amongst deep green forest. Luxury accommodation, included transfers and a Scenic Tour Director make for seamless travel.