Gems of Southeast Europe
Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary
Europe • River Cruise • October 19-26, 2026
Quick Facts
- Currency: Romanian Leu (RON), Serbian Dinar (RSD), Hungarian Forint (HUF), Bulgaria, Croatia = Euro ((€/EUR)
- Language: Romanian, Bulgarian, Serbian, Croatian, Hungarian, English
- Time Zone: Romania, Bulgaria EET (UTC +02:00), Serbia, Croatia, Hungary CET (UTC+01:00)
- Cell Service: Widespread
- Wifi: Widely available
- Plug Types: C & F (230V)
Tipping Recommendations
- Guides: 10% per tour
- Restaurants: 5% to 10%
- Taxis: Round your fare up for short trips, 10% for longer trips
Tipping is always optional but appreciated.
Weather & Climate
Weather conditions for Southeast Europe in October.
- Expect average daily temperature ranges between 5C (41F) and 13C (55F). The nightly temperatures could be as low as 0C (32F)
Lightweight, breathable clothing that can be layered will be appreciated for the daily temperature ranges.
Suggested Packing List
Clothing
- Fleece top or sweater
- Hat or cap for sun protection
- Light rain jacket
- Long pants, capris and/or shorts
- Shirts (blouses, t-shirts, tank tops, etc.)
- Sleepwear
- Smart outfit (optional for evenings out)
Footwear
- Comfortable closed toe walking shoes
Essentials
- Daypack (for daily excursions)
- Electrical adapter and converter
- External charger / power bank
- Flight information and documents
- High SPF sunscreen
- Passport
- Pen (for filling out documents)
- Personal medications
- Refillable water bottle
- Sunglasses
- Travel insurance policy (with photocopies)
Nice-to-have
- Camera (with extra memory cards and batteries)
- Headphones or earbuds
- Locks for bags
- Money belt
- Reusable shopping bags for souvenirs
- Small travel towel
This is a suggested packing list for your river cruise. Individual needs vary, and not every item will be necessary for every traveler.
Cultural Notes & Local Etiquette
- When visiting religious and cultural sites, dress modestly and respect quiet and photography rules
- Ask before photographing locals
Your guides will assist with cultural interactions.
Health & Wellness
Please visit a travel clinic prior to departure.
- Always drink bottled water
- Stay hydrated
Entry Requirements
Visa
Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia and Hungary are Schengen area countries. Canadian and U.S. citizens do not need a visa for travel to countries within the Schengen area. However, visa-free travel only applies to stays of up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Stays are cumulative and include visits to any Schengen area country.
For Canadian and U.S. citizens, a tourist visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days in Serbia.
Passport
Passports must be valid for at least 3 months beyond the date you expect to leave the Schengen area.
Passports must be valid for the expected duration of your stay in Serbia.
Travel requirements may change at any time. Please visit your government’s travel recommendations page.
Canada – https://travel.gc.ca/
USA – https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html
Electricity & Devices
A universal all-in-one travel adapter (can be purchased from retailers like Amazon) will allow you to plug in and charge most electronic devices. Most electronic devices have built-in converters. However, if you plan to use North American appliances like hair dryers, flat irons or curling irons you will need a converter.
In Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia and Hungary there are two associated plug types, types C and F. Type C plugs have two round pins and type F plugs have two round pins with two earth clips on the side. Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia and Hungary operate on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
💡Helpful Tips from Past Travelers
- Appreciate the culture and history
- Pack a good pair of walking shoes
- Enjoy an afternoon coffee or tea and treat