Capitals of Eastern Europe

  • From $9,499
  • |
  • 17 Days
  • |
  • 12 Guided Tours
  • |
  • 7 Countries

Ilok, Croatia

  • Historic church and medieval brick wall

Ilok’s vineyards have helped to firmly cement Croatia’s position on every oenophile’s map. For more than two millennia, the town has been producing some of the region’s finest wines, thanks to its superior soil and the climate of the surrounding hillsides. In the town, wine cellars can be found on every street, providing ample opportunity to sample a hearty vintage, and the remains of a Roman fort with evidence of a water supply system can still be seen. The 15th-century Ilok Castle presides over the medieval town, offering magnificent views of the Danube.

Vukovar, Croatia

  • Historic mansion surrounded by lush greenery

Vučedol culture flourished in Vukovar from 3000 to 2200 BCE, making this archaeological park one of the most important in Europe. However, the town is better known for its recent history; in 1991, Vukovar came under siege during the Yugoslav Wars, becoming the only town in Europe to have suffered such destruction since World War II. Notable buildings have now been restored, including the Eltz Manor and the Baroque Church of St. Nicholas. Vukovar’s streets are best explored on foot; the town carries the echoes of the war and stories of bravery of those who lived here.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Historic yellow mansion with red roof

Osijek Citadel & Vukovar’s Eltz Manor Museum

Enjoy a guided walk in Osijek’s Old Town and visit the Eltz Manor in Vukovar.

Included
Historic yellow mansion with red roof

Osijek Citadel & Vukovar’s Eltz Manor Museum

Duration: 4 hours      

Discover the Old Town of Osijek and Croatia’s Largest River Port

Enjoy a guided walk in Osijek’s Old Town and visit the Eltz Manor in Vukovar. Set off with your guide to explore the baroque treasures and modern sights; Osijek’s citadel is home to the best-preserved and largest ensemble of 18th-century baroque buildings in Croatia. Continue by motor coach to Vukovar; known as “The Hero City,” it was heavily destroyed during the Croatian War of Independence. The city’s resilient past can be observed during a guided visit to Eltz Manor, the baroque palace first constructed in 1751 and destroyed in 1991 during the Croatian War. It was completely restored in 2011 and now houses the Vukovar City Museum, where you can view a rich and revealing collection of artifacts dating back centuries. After your tour, return to your awaiting ship.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Aerial view of historic European town

Highlights of Croatia

See the best of eastern Croatia as you explore Osijek and enjoy lunch with a local family.
Aerial view of historic European town

Highlights of Croatia

Duration: 7 hours 30 minutes      

See the Town of Osijek and Savor a Traditional Lunch

See the best of eastern Croatia as you explore Osijek and enjoy lunch with a local family. Journey by motor coach to the quaint town of Osijek. Here, you will set off on foot with your guide to visit the Citadel (Tvrđa), the largest ensemble of baroque buildings in Croatia, and see the Hapsburg star fort and the local, historic church. Afterward, drive to a neighboring village where you will be warmly greeted by a local family. Partake in a welcome refreshment before sitting down to a delicious Croatian meal of traditional cuisine, served with various side dishes and dessert. Bid farewell and continue to a picturesque vineyard on the banks of the Danube. Here, you will sample a selection of locally produced wines, before returning to your ship.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Scenic countryside with terraced fields and houses

The Town of Ilok & Wine Tasting

Visit the charming town of Ilok and indulge yourself in a wine tasting after a leisurely stroll.
Scenic countryside with terraced fields and houses

The Town of Ilok & Wine Tasting

Duration: 3 hours      

Enjoy a Guided Walk and a Taste of Croatian Wines

Visit the charming town of Ilok and indulge yourself in a wine tasting after a leisurely stroll. Meet your guide and embark on a scenic panoramic drive, with views over the Danube River. Upon arrival in the heart of Ilok, set off on foot to see the town’s sights and landmarks. View the Gothic-style church of St. Ivan Kapistran and the Odescalchi Castle, an impressive medieval castle situated on a hill above the city, providing for some stunning vistas. Arrive at the picturesque Ilok winery where you will enjoy an exclusive tasting. Croatia has a long history of wine making that celebrates a thousand-year-old vine cultivation and wine making tradition. Sample three different white wines, including a local Graševina, a Frankovka Rosé, and a red variety—the bold Kapistran Black—known for its hints of blackberry.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.