Danube River Itineraries

Westbound Danube River Cruise

A Danube river cruise is one of the best ways to see the heart of Europe. With two weeks, you can cover a lot of ground at a more leisurely pace - plus have the opportunity for longer shore excursions which will hit upon both the major cities and smaller attractions.

Day 1: Arrive in your beginning city. Many classic Danube river cruises begin in Budapest or Prague.

Day 2, Prague: Walk across the famous Chain Bridge, visit the Jewish Quarter and see the Old Royal Palace. Enjoy a local meal and overnight stay before taking a scenic drive to Budapest where you will embark your river cruise vessel.

Day 3-4, Budapest: Enjoy the day exploring the city. Take in the architectural marvel that is the Hungarian Parliament building, climb Gellert Hill, walk across any one of Budapest’s famous bridges, explore the Great Market Hall.

Day 5-6, Slovakia: Slovakia is a beautiful country, with massive green forests and hidden castles. Explore the capital of Bratislava and take in the sights from Castle Hill.

Day 7-8, Vienna: Sail from Prague to Vienna, where the cities strong music legacy will come alive. Visit the Opera House, enjoy a classic Viennese pastry as you walk the beautiful streets.

Day 9, Melk: Explore the Benedictine Abbey

Day 10-11, Passau: Optional day trip to Salzburg, or take a walking tour of the city

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Eastbound Danube River Cruise

Another popular Danube River option is to travel east, where you will experience Romania, Hungary and Bulgaria, as well as some Balkan states, depending on the cruise line.

Day 1, Arrive starting city: Many eastbound Danube River cruises begin in Germany

Day 2, Passau: Take a walking tour and visit St. Stephan’s Cathedral.

Day 3, Salzburg: Take a day trip through the historic city and Sound of Music setting. Set said this evening to begin your Danube river cruise experience.

Day 4, Vienna: Learn the strong music legacy of the city. Visit the Opera House, enjoy a classic Viennese pastry as you walk the beautiful streets.

Day 5, Budapest: Take in the architectural marvel that is the Hungarian Parliament building, climb Gellert Hill, walk across any one of Budapest’s famous bridges, explore the Great Market Hall.

Day 6, Moacs: Still in Hungary, take a day excursion to Pecs with its extensive Turkish influence.

Day 7, Croatia: Enter Croatia and explore the beautiful city of Osijek, which has existed since Neolithic times.

Day 8, Serbia: Explore the city of Belgrade and Kalemegdan Fortress, Nicolas Tesla Museum

Day 9, Bulgaria: Veliko Tarnovo, see the royal castle ruins at Tsaravets Hill

Day 10, Vidin: Continuing through Bulgaria, see the Belogradchik Fortress,

Day 11-12, Romania: End your journey in beautiful Romania. Tour Bucharest, where you’ll see Royal Palace Square, Patriarchal Church, and the famous  Arch of Triumph.

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Danube River Cruise Highlights in 1 Week

When you take a river cruise on the Danube, you are surrounded by impressive history from start to finish. Coupled with spectacular views of old and new Europe, it’s a trip that’s sure to inspire.

Day 1-2, Budapest: Take in the architectural marvel that is the Hungarian Parliament building, climb Gellert Hill, walk across any one of Budapest’s famous bridges, explore the Great Market Hall.

Day 3, Bratislava: Enjoy a walking tour of this fascinating, vibrant city, to see Mirbach Palace, and the St Martin Gothic Cathedral.

Day 4, Vienna: Explore the classical music heritage here. Visit the famous Opera House, Hofburg Palace, and tour the Spanish Riding School for a glimpse of the famous Lipizzan horses.

Day 5, Melk: Melk Abbey, wine tasting in the Dürnstein region. Discover the history of Richard the Lionheart.

Day 6, Passau: Tour St. Stephen’s Cathedral and see its main claim to fame: the largest pipe organ in Europe!

Day 7, Nuremberg: In your last stop, visit Zeppelin Field, the Palace of Justice, and explore ancient sites in Old Town.

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