Danube River Cruise

I enjoyed my cruise on the Danube River from Budapest to Passau with Avalon Waterways because the itinerary combined a wonderful mix of historical landmarks, beautiful scenery and cultural sights. Here are some of the highlights and things I enjoyed along the way:

Budapest: I started my journey in Hungary's capital, Budapest, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Danube." There, take time to explore the Buda Castle District, home to the historic Royal Palace and Matthias Church and don't miss the stunning Hungarian Parliament Building, the Fisherman's Bastion, and the iconic Chain Bridge. Budapest is a fabulous city to spend a few extra days before you set sail if you can.

Bratislava: Our first stop down the Danube was the charming city of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. I was really surprised by the compact Old Town, dominated by the medieval Bratislava Castle. While there stroll along the cobbled streets, visit St. Martin's Cathedral, and admire the whimsical statues scattered throughout the city.

Vienna: Austria's elegant capital, Vienna, is a highlight of any Danube River cruise. It's easy to immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage with visits to iconic landmarks such as the Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera. Don't miss the chance to sample delicious Viennese pastries and coffee in one of the city's traditional cafés. A food tour in Vienna was one of the highlights of my trip.

Wachau Valley: Every Danube cruise that heads West cruises through the picturesque Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning scenery, terraced vineyards, and charming villages. Keep an eye out for medieval castles, monasteries, and the famous Melk Abbey perched atop a hill overlooking the river.

Linz: Discover the vibrant city of Linz, Austria's third-largest city, situated along the banks of the Danube. Explore the charming Old Town with its colorful Baroque buildings, visit the impressive New Cathedral, and immerse yourself in Linz's thriving cultural scene.

Passau: My cruise concluded in Passau, Germany. I had to head straight out to catch my flight but I wished I'd been able to visit the picturesque Old Town, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral with its magnificent organ. I'm looking forward to another opportunity to visit since I missed the opportunity to stroll along the riverfront promenade and enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Throughout my cruise with Avalon Waterways, I had the opportunity to participate in guided shore excursions, led by knowledgeable local guides that provided insights into the history, culture, and traditions of each destination along the Danube River. Additionally, I had plenty of time to relax onboard and enjoy the breathtaking scenery as I sailed through the heart of Europe. 

Think you'd like to do the same? Contact me. I'd love to share more about my experience sailing with Avalon on the Danube with you. I'm also an Avalon Waterways Specialist so I can book your sailing too! Avalon does a wonderful job of taking care of all of the small details so you can truly enjoy their beautiful ship and the beautiful locale.