When it comes to a vacation that blends experiences in history, art, music, and food, it’s hard to top a river cruise. Especially one that is leisurely sailing down the Danube River. If you’ve dreamed of exploring one of Europe’s most beautiful regions, a river cruise is the perfect way to do so!
Begin your week on the Danube in the city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary. Often called the “Paris of the East” for its beautiful evening illumination and reflected lights in the Danube’s waters, Budapest is a true riverside beauty, with a vibrant cultural scene and elegant Art Nouveau architecture.
As you continue sailing on the Danube, you’ll arrive at the capital of Slovakia, Bratislava. The only national capital that borders two other countries, Austria and Hungary, Bratislava is filled with lovingly restored baroque city palaces and dominated by an enormous castle that towers 300 feet above the Danube.
Later you’ll arrive in Vienna, the capital city of Austria, renowned for its architecture, history, music, and beautiful green parks – to say nothing of the food. Here you’ll see some of the city’s baroque architecture, including the world-famous Opera House, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace, as well as the Schönbrunn Palace, the “Versailles of Vienna,” erected in 1778 and graced by a number of formal gardens, Grecian statuary, the world’s oldest zoo and Roman ruins.
Where else will you visit on your Danube River cruise?
You may stop in Linz, where you can explore the town’s charming streets, cafés, shops and galleries, as well as its historical baroque and Renaissance buildings including Linz Castle and the Market Hall, where Mozart wrote the Linz Symphony
Your weeklong river cruise ends in enchanting Passau, founded by the Celts more than 2,000 years ago. One of Bavaria’s oldest cities, Passau is home to elegant colored buildings and graceful arcades, and a highlight of this city is surely the impressive baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral – its ornate interior is home to the Europe’s largest church organ.
Your “home” for this weeklong bucket list voyage is a beautiful river cruise ship, that provides you a front row seat as you sail the Danube. Every room will have a view, so it’s easy (and relaxing) to enjoy the beautiful and changing scenery right outside your window or from your balcony, as you sail on to your next destination.
Of course, there’s nothing like a floating all-inclusive resort. On a river cruise, all meals – from breakfast and lunch buffets to multi-course gourmet dinners – are all included in your cruise fare. (And unlike many large ocean cruises, you won’t have an upcharge for specialty dining.) You’ll also find most beverages are included – coffee and tea throughout the day, bottled water replenished daily in your stateroom, and beer, wine, and soft drinks at meals. You’ll also find that meals will typically feature local ingredients and flavors, with an emphasis on regional recipes that tie in perfectly with the cultural experiences you’ll have along the way. This means your food and drink are not only included, but they are a central part of your river cruise experience!
The only bad thing about your Danube River voyage is that it has to end. But that just means it’s time to plan your next bucket list vacation! Where to next?
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