The Danube River is the second longest river in Europe and one of the most iconic and historically important waterways. It originates in the black forest in Germany, and from there it makes its way over 2,850kilometers (1,770 miles) through 10 countries. This are more countries than any other river in the world. In Romania the Danube River finds its end in the black sea.
On its long way it crosses beautiful landscapes, connects various capitals and floats through charming towns. The Danube River lays out a natural route for an unforgettable journey, here are a few stations you should consider.
Regensburg is the perfect start of a Danube River Tour. It’s a beautiful preserved medieval city in Bavaria. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town is filled with Gothic architecture, a medieval Cathedral, and the iconic Stone Bridge (Steinerne Brücke) from the 12th century.
The next stop on the tour along the river, is Passau. As Regensburg, Passau is also located in Bavaria. The city is known as the “three-river-city” as the Danube meets there the Inn and Ilz. Around these three rivers a cute town was built.
Shortly after Passau, the Danube crosses the border from Germany to Austria. In Austria the river first flows through some rural areas, initially the river line is characterized by many bends and curves. Later the river reaches a very fertile region, recognizable by the many agricultural areas. After the small town of Linz, which is known above all for its industry, comes the real highlight of the rural section of the route: the Wachau. With its rolling hills, wine terraces, apricot orchards and charming villages, the Wachau region is beautiful in every direction. At the end of this section, the Danube passes through the small city of Krems and Tulln, which combine rural life with the traditional Austrian small-town atmosphere.
One of the most remarkable aspects of traveling along the Danube is how it connects not just countries, but capitals. Nowhere else in Europe can you glide from one capital city to another with a river as your guide.
After passing through the countryside of Austria, the Danube leads you into Vienna, once the imperial heart of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. The city’s beauty is enhanced by grand palaces, world-class music and traditional coffeehouses.
Continue downstream and you’ll reach Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Though smaller and more relaxed than its neighbours, Bratislava has a unique charm. It’s a combination of medieval towers, socialist-era blocks, and a youthful, creative energy.
Not long after, the river opens into Budapest, often called the “Pearl of the Danube.” The Hungarian capital is divided by the river into two parts: Buda and Pest. One side is characterised by historic buildings on the hills, while the other is characterised by its small streets, cafés and bars.
This described journey is already stunning. But the Danube’s beauty doesn’t end there. Beyond Budapest, the river flows on through Serbia, Romania, and Bulgaria, partly through untouched countryside, partly through ancient towns and through old bridges. Each bend reveals something new, you could follow the Danube forever and still discover more.
