Danube River Cruises

Discover the Danube

The Danube is Europe's second longest river, flowing 2,850 km from Germany's Black Forest to the Black Sea. It passes through 10 countries and four capital cities (Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade), making it the most international river in the world.

Key Facts

Length: 2,850 km (1,770 miles)
Countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, Ukraine
Capital Cities: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, Belgrade
Source: Black Forest, Germany
Mouth: Black Sea

Best Time to Cruise

The Danube cruise season runs from April through October, with each season offering unique advantages:

Spring (Apr-May): Mild weather, blooming landscapes, fewer crowds
Summer (Jun-Aug): Warm temperatures, long days, festival season
Fall (Sep-Oct): Cooler weather, harvest season, autumn colors

What to See & Do

Must-See Highlights

Wachau Valley

UNESCO-listed stretch between Melk and Krems with terraced vineyards, medieval towns, and Melk Abbey.

Budapest

The "Pearl of the Danube" with its stunning Parliament building, thermal baths, and Castle District.

Iron Gates

Dramatic gorge between Serbia and Romania with towering cliffs and ancient Roman tablets.

Vienna

Imperial capital with Schönbrunn Palace, Opera House, and rich musical heritage.

Cultural Experiences

Attend a classical concert in Vienna, the world's music capital
Sample Hungarian goulash and Tokaji wine in Budapest
Explore Belgrade's Bohemian Quarter and Ottoman fortress
Visit the medieval town of Regensburg, Germany's best-preserved

Danube Cruise Tips

Pack layers - Weather can vary significantly along the river's length
Try local wines - The Danube flows through Austria's Wachau and Hungary's wine regions
Book early - Popular summer sailings sell out months in advance
Consider spring/fall - Fewer crowds and often better pricing than peak summer

Danube River Cruise Itineraries

Our Danube cruises range from 7 to 14 nights, with options focusing on different sections of the river. Most itineraries include Vienna, Budapest, and the Wachau Valley, with longer voyages continuing to the Iron Gates and the Black Sea.