Belgrade – Kladovo – Belgrade
Travel Dates: August 25–30, 2026
Package Price: €440 per person in a double room (half board)
IRON GATES INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2026
Exclusive Film Festival & Danube Cruise Package
DAY 1
TUESDAY | AUGUST 25, 2026
Danube Cruise from Belgrade to the Iron Gates and Accommodation in Kladovo
Guests are invited to meet at the Belgrade passenger port (Karađorđeva Street, next to Branko’s Bridge) at 7:15 AM for check-in and boarding.
Our journey begins with a scenic cruise along the Danube, departing from the heart of Belgrade. As we leave the Serbian capital behind, enjoy panoramic views of Belgrade Fortress and the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.
Throughout the day, the cruise follows one of the most historically significant sections of the Danube. Along the route, we pass the monumental Smederevo Fortress, the mouth of the Great Morava River, the medieval Ram Fortress, Silver Lake, and Veliko Gradište before reaching the spectacular Golubac Fortress, dramatically positioned at the entrance to the Iron Gates Gorge.
The cruise continues through the Iron Gates, one of Europe’s most impressive natural wonders and the largest river gorge on the continent. This extraordinary landscape combines dramatic cliffs, dense forests, and centuries of history carved into the banks of the Danube.
Highlights along the route include the prehistoric archaeological site of Lepenski Vir, the town of Donji Milanovac, the monumental rock sculpture of King Decebalus, and the famous Tabula Traiana, a Roman memorial plaque carved into the cliffs nearly two thousand years ago to commemorate Emperor Trajan’s military campaign.
Upon arrival in Tekija, a short coach transfer follows to Kladovo.
Accommodation is provided at the elegant Hotel Aquastar Danube 4*, located on the banks of the Danube. Dinner and overnight stay.
DAY 2
WEDNESDAY | AUGUST 26, 2026
Kladovo – Iron Gates International Film Festival Opening Ceremony
Breakfast at the hotel.
Enjoy a leisurely day in Kladovo, a charming riverside town on the banks of the Danube. Take a relaxing stroll along the promenade, explore the town at your own pace, or unwind on the panoramic terrace of Hotel Aquastar Danube while enjoying regional cuisine and fresh fish specialties.
In the evening, dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant.
Following dinner, guests will attend the official opening ceremony of the Iron Gates International Film Festival, featuring a welcome programme and an introduction to the festival’s screenings and special events.
The evening continues with an open-air film screening in the historic Fortress of Fetislam, one of the most distinctive cultural landmarks in the region. Set against the backdrop of ancient stone walls and the Danube River, the festival atmosphere offers a unique blend of cinema, history, and nature.
Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.
DAY 3
THURSDAY | AUGUST 27, 2026
Iron Gates Hydroelectric Power Plant, Roman Heritage and Wine Tasting
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today is dedicated to discovering the rich history, engineering achievements, and cultural heritage of the Iron Gates region.
Our first stop is the Iron Gates Hydroelectric Power Plant, one of the largest hydroelectric and navigation projects on the Danube River. During the visit, guests will learn about the construction of this remarkable engineering landmark, its significance for regional development, and its role in the energy systems of Serbia and Romania. A special highlight is the monumental copper engraving displayed within the complex, illustrating the history of the Danube and the peoples who have inhabited its banks throughout the centuries.
The excursion continues with a visit to the Roman fortress Diana, an important military stronghold built in the 1st century AD as part of the Roman frontier along the Danube. The archaeological site offers a fascinating insight into the daily life of Roman soldiers and the strategic importance of this region within the Roman Empire.
Nearby, guests will also see the remains of Trajan’s Bridge, one of the greatest engineering achievements of the ancient world. Constructed in the early 2nd century AD under Emperor Trajan, it was considered the longest bridge ever built for more than a thousand years and played a crucial role in the Roman conquest of Dacia.
Upon returning to the hotel, guests will enjoy a tasting of selected wines from the renowned Negotin wine region, accompanied by light local specialties. This experience offers a wonderful introduction to the long winemaking tradition of Eastern Serbia.
Dinner will be served at the hotel restaurant.
In the evening, guests may attend festival screenings as part of the Iron Gates International Film Festival programme.
Overnight stay in Kladovo.
DAY 4
FRIDAY | AUGUST 28, 2026
Hiking Excursion to Ploče Viewpoint in the Iron Gates National Park
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today’s excursion takes us into the heart of the Iron Gates National Park, one of Serbia’s most spectacular protected natural areas. A short transfer brings us to the starting point of a scenic hiking trail that winds through pristine forests and leads to the renowned Ploče Viewpoint, widely considered one of the most breathtaking viewpoints in the country.
Upon reaching the viewpoint, guests are rewarded with an extraordinary panorama overlooking the Danube River, the Great Kazan Gorge, and the dramatic limestone cliffs that rise above the water. Situated at an elevation of 355 metres, Ploče offers one of the finest views of the Iron Gates Gorge, where the Danube cuts through its most spectacular and narrowest section.
Time will be reserved for relaxation, photography, and enjoying the remarkable scenery that has made the Iron Gates one of Europe’s most impressive river landscapes. A packed lunch will be provided during the excursion.
In the afternoon, return to Kladovo and free time at leisure.
During the evening, the programme of the Iron Gates International Film Festival continues with film screenings and accompanying festival events.
Optional Programme
Live music evening on the panoramic terrace of Hotel Aquastar Danube.
DAY 5
SATURDAY | AUGUST 29, 2026
A Day of Relaxation and the Festival Finale
Breakfast at the hotel.
Enjoy a leisurely day at your own pace. Guests may take advantage of the facilities of the Aquastar Danube Spa & Wellness Centre, stroll along the Danube promenade, or explore Kladovo and its local attractions independently.
The afternoon is reserved for the continuing programme of the Iron Gates International Film Festival, featuring screenings and accompanying cultural events. On the festival’s final day, visitors have another opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of an event that brings together cinema, history, culture, and the spectacular landscapes of the Iron Gates region.
In the evening, guests will attend the Closing Ceremony of the Iron Gates International Film Festival, followed by the festival’s final screening.
Overnight stay in Kladovo.
DAY 6
SUNDAY | AUGUST 30, 2026
Lepenski Vir, Golubac Fortress and Return to Belgrade
Breakfast at the hotel.
Departure by coach at 9:30 AM.
Our return journey to Belgrade follows the scenic route through the Iron Gates region, one of the most spectacular stretches of the Danube River. Along the way, a photo stop is planned at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Kazan Gorge, offering unforgettable views of the dramatic landscapes that have made this area famous throughout Europe.
The excursion continues with a visit to Lepenski Vir, one of Europe’s most important prehistoric archaeological sites. Dating back more than 8,000 years, this remarkable settlement is renowned for its distinctive architecture and unique stone sculptures, providing fascinating insight into one of the earliest organized communities on the continent.
Following the visit, lunch will be served at the traditional ethno-restaurant Kapetan Mišin Breg, beautifully situated above the Danube and offering spectacular river views.
In the afternoon, we continue to Golubac Fortress, one of the most impressive medieval fortifications on the Danube. Strategically positioned at the entrance to the Iron Gates Gorge, the fortress guarded this important frontier for centuries and played a significant role in the history of Serbia, the Kingdom of Hungary, and the Ottoman Empire.
Arrival in Belgrade is expected in the evening hours.
Prices are quoted in euros (€).
- Accommodation in a Double Room: €440 per person
- Single Room Supplement: €190 per person
- First Child (0–6.99 years): Free of charge
- Second Child (0–6.99 years): 50% discount
- Children (7–11.99 years): 50% discount
Important Note: A minimum of 40 participants is required for the package to operate.
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES
- Danube cruise from Belgrade to Tekija, as described in the programme
- Coach transfers: Tekija – Kladovo (Day 1) and Kladovo – Belgrade (Day 6)
- Breakfast, lunch, and a wine tasting experience on board during the cruise
- Five nights’ accommodation at Hotel Aquastar Danube 4*
- Half-board service (buffet breakfast and dinner)
- Unlimited access to the hotel’s Spa & Wellness Centre, including the indoor pool, sauna, jacuzzi, massage chairs, and fitness room
- Lunch on the return journey to Belgrade
- Festival passes for all screenings and events of the Iron Gates International Film Festival
- Entrance fees to Fetislam Fortress, the Iron Gates Hydroelectric Power Plant, Lepenski Vir Archaeological Site, and Golubac Fortress
- Services of a professional tour guide and local guides
- Organisation and handling fees
THE PACKAGE DOES NOT INCLUDE
- Beverages consumed during the cruise and at the hotel
- Tourist tax and guest insurance (RSD 90 per adult per night; RSD 50 per child aged 7–15 per night)
- Personal expenses and optional services, including minibar consumption, massage treatments, laundry and ironing services, water sports, and other individual expenses
PAYMENT TERMS
A reservation is confirmed upon payment of a 50% deposit of the total package price, based on the issued proforma invoice.
The remaining balance must be paid no later than 7 days prior to departure.
For reservations made less than 14 days before departure, full payment is required upon confirmation of the booking.
GENERAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS
The programme is subject to the General Terms and Conditions of Travel.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please note that the programme is subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances, operational requirements, or force majeure.
About the Aquastar Maxim boat
The journey from Belgrade to Tekija is operated by Aquastar Maxim, a modern passenger vessel built in 2014.
The vessel is 28 metres long and 7 metres wide, offering comfortable accommodation for up to 70 passengers in its fully equipped indoor lounge. Guests have access to a bar area, a high-resolution LCD screen, and a modern audio system. The upper sun deck is furnished with loungers, providing an ideal setting for enjoying the scenery along the Danube.
Lunch on board is served buffet-style. The vessel’s technical specifications and equipment ensure a comfortable and safe cruise experience throughout the planned itinerary.
About the Festival
The Iron Gates International Film Festival presents a carefully curated selection of domestic and international films, with a special focus on stories that explore the relationship between people and nature, borders and identity, history and contemporary life, particularly within the cultural landscapes of the Balkans and the Danube region.
Festival screenings take place at distinctive and authentic venues, including the open-air stage of the historic Fetislam Fortress. These unique locations create a memorable atmosphere, where cinema, history, and the natural beauty of the Iron Gates come together to offer an exceptional cultural experience.
Tanja B.
“A perfect getaway and a truly relaxing experience.”
Radovan & Suzana U.
“The trip exceeded our expectations. Well-organised, rich in content, and of excellent quality. Highly recommended.”
Srđan M.
“We returned home with wonderful memories. The staff, both on the cruise and at the hotel, were exceptional. The food was excellent, and the hosts demonstrated outstanding professionalism throughout. A truly unique travel experience in Serbia.”
Nada K.
“The day after the trip, my travel companion called and said it felt as if she had dreamed the whole experience. I couldn’t agree more.”
Aleksandar P.
“I would gladly recommend this journey to everyone.”
Milan Đ.
“Beautiful scenery, excellent food, and an impressive number of attractions and experiences packed into just a few days.”
Mirjana R.
“An informative and thoroughly enjoyable experience from beginning to end.”
IRON GATES INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2026
From August 25 to 29, 2026, the town of Kladovo will host the first official edition of the Iron Gates International Film Festival (IGIFF), an international cultural event that brings contemporary cinema to one of Europe’s most spectacular natural settings – the Iron Gates Gorge on the Danube River.
Building on the success of its pilot edition in 2025, the festival will present a diverse programme of international and regional films, filmmaker talks, panel discussions, and educational activities designed for emerging film professionals, students, and cinema enthusiasts.
Festival screenings and events will take place at the Kladovo Cultural Centre and at the open-air stage of the historic Fetislam Fortress, one of the most remarkable venues along the Danube.
The festival promotes cultural exchange and international cooperation, particularly among countries of the Danube region, while contributing to the development of Kladovo as an emerging destination for cultural tourism.
The festival’s founder and ambassador is internationally acclaimed actor Darko Perić, a native of Kladovo, best known to global audiences for his role in the internationally successful television series Money Heist (La Casa de Papel).
For more information, please visit www.irongateiff.com or follow @irongateiff on Instagram.