Glide past the culture-rich banks of the Danube River at the heart of central Europe. From lush vineyards to historic monasteries and elegant cities, you get to wake up to a new view every morning…
“This was our first river cruise – and it won’t be our last! It was so lovely to wake up each morning to another city/country.”
– Terence in Bourne on The Blue Danube river cruise.
Experience the delights that inspired ‘The Blue Danube‘ of Johann Strauss’ immortal waltz and lullaby. Unveil the rich and dramatic history along the banks of the River Danube. Encompassing the southern and eastern portions of Europe, a journey along the Danube takes you through Europe’s most enthralling cities with stunning scenery and rich culture to soak up as you go.
“We had a wonderful 2 weeks cruising on the Danube. This trip was made even better by the glorious weather we enjoyed.”
– John from Worthing on the Budapest to The Black Sea River Cruise.
Passing through 10 countries, there’s plenty to explore on your Danube river cruise. Here are a few of our favorite places to visit:
Budapest
The ‘Pearl of the Danube’ lives up to its reputation. Located in Hungary, the city sits directly on the Danube and is a highlight of The Blue Danube river cruise with Budapest extension.
The twin cities of Buda, built around the hilltop fortress, and Pest, with wide boulevards, were fought over for centuries. The Ottomans ruled there for over 150 years before being ousted in the late 17th century. However, the Ottoman legacy remains with many thermal baths fed by hot springs, giving rise to Budapest’s nickname – the ‘City of Spas’. With dramatic views across the river, Budapest has a cornucopia of galleries, museums, outstanding art nouveau architecture and excellent shopping.
Nuremberg
The second largest city in Bavaria, Nuremberg, sits close to the Danube River on the Pegnitz River. Just a short journey away, this is a popular stop on the Cruise the Heart of Europe river cruise.
For centuries, Nuremberg was the undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Emperor, beginning with the coronation of Charlemagne in 800 AD, and the preferred residence for German Kings. Steeped in history, there are architectural treasures around every corner and the picturesque setting attracted many famous artists.
A must-see for fans of WWII history, Nuremberg is renowned in modern history for its association with the Nazi period. Visit the sites of Hitler’s pre-war rallies and the international war crime trials that brought down the final curtain on the notorious regime.
Wachau Valley
A river cruise along the Danube is the perfect way to see the beauty of the agricultural lands in Wachau. Wachau is considered one of Europe’s most enchanting river valleys, and it has held UNESCO World Heritage status since 2000. From the river banks, vineyards stretch up into the hills and towns and villages dot the landscape.
Regensburg
This picturesque medieval town, Regensburg, has been preserved with exceptional quality. Its history as a trading centre and its influence on the region from the 9th century can be seen throughout the architecture.
Regensburg dates back to Roman times and was the first capital city of Bavaria. With over 2,000 years of history, the city has been recognised as a UNESCO world heritage site since 2006. Regensburg’s 11th-13th-century architecture defines the character of the town with tall buildings, narrow lanes and mighty fortresses.
Bratislava
Since Slovakia’s independence in 1993, Bratislava has become a kaleidoscope of history. From a medieval Old Town to baroque palaces and the massive rectangular castle, reconstructed in the renaissance style. The city is surrounded by the Little Carpathian Mountains, creating a scenic background for the enticing bars and boutiques.
Passau
Known as the ‘Three River City’, Passau sits on the meeting point of theDanube, Inn and Ilz Rivers near the board of Austria and Germany.
Founded over 2,000 years ago this is one of the oldest cities in Bravari and a centre of natural beauty and religious pilgrimage. The centrepiece of this beautiful city is St. Stephen’s Cathedral with a magnificent, tiled roof and spire reaching into the sky. The cathedral has stood since 730 and is home to the largest organ in Europe.
Possibly the best view of Passau and the rivers are from the fortress at the top of the hill. Built in 1219, on St. Georgsberg, Veste Oberhaus showcases the history and art of Passau.
Vienna
In a location as beautiful as Vienna, it’s hard not to enjoy yourself…
“[…]we were moored in Vienna and the last evening meal was perfect…..I could go on as there wasn’t really any downsides to the holiday….even the rain in Vienna was a welcome break from the heat.”
– Linda in Reading on The Blue Danube river cruise 29/07/2022
For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches were built to reflect its imperial status. Even now, the city’s name provokes images of elegance, fine music and Baroque architecture. Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses. And if you love the festive season, don’t miss the magical Christmas Markets from Mid-November.
Melk
The town of Melk, located in northeastern Austria, lies at the confluence of the Danube and Melk Rivers. High on the striking rocky bluff above the town of Melk today is the enormous Benedictine Abbey. Once the site of a Roman garrison, it became the castle residence of the Babenberg rulers from Austria before being gifted to the Benedictine monks. The abbey was enlarged and reconstructed and fortified in the 18th century creating the palatial building that dominates the skyline in Melk today. With many fine rooms and a vast library with over 100,000 priceless volumes, including intricate illuminated manuscripts. A destination for pilgrims, the abbey is also said to house the bones of St Koloman.
Find out more about all the interesting places to see along the Danube River in our blog ‘A map of the Danube: From the Black Forest to the Black Sea’
Danube Fact File:
Want to know more about this fascinating river? We’ve answered your most-asked questions:
Where is the Danube River?
The Danube River begins in the Black Forest Mountains of Germany and meanders through the heart of Central Europe. It flows 1,770 miles to its mouth on the Black Sea.
What are the countries of the Danube River?
The Danube River passes through 10 countries; It starts its life in Germany before travelling through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Moldova and Ukraine.
Where is the source of the Danube River?
Deep in the Black Forest, the Daube River starts its life at the confluence of two streams, Brigach and Breg, just east of Donanueschingen. The Breg is the bigger of the two and is often noted as the hydrological source.
When is the best time to go on a Daube River cruise?
With so many countries to visit and cities to explore, there’s never a bad time to book a river cruise along the Danube River. Cruise in Spring or Autumn for cooler climates and stunning displays of colour. From the vibrant flowers of spring to the golden colour of Autumn leaves, these seasons offer a unique experience of the Danube River. Enjoy longer days and warmer weather in the popular summer months or wrap up warm and explore the Christmas Markets of Central Europe on our festive river cruises and winter escapes.
You can explore all these fantastic locations and more on a river cruise along the Danube.
Book now with Riviera Travel. And if you book an upper deck cabin, deluxe or superior suite on The Blue Danube river cruise in October 2023, we’ll include a FREE 3-night tour extension in Budapest or Prague worth up to £599 per person. And, enjoy drinks on us this summer, with a free enhanced drinks package worth £250 included on and European river cruises departing in July and August.
