Danube River
Why Sail the Danube?
The Danube is one of Europe's most beautiful rivers, offering breathtaking views of rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, charming villages, and magnificent cities. Sailing the Danube allows you to visit numerous historical cities and towns along its banks. From Vienna and Budapest to Belgrade and Bucharest, you can immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures, visit impressive castles, explore ancient ruins, and admire architectural masterpieces.
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The Danube River, known as Donau in German, is the second longest river in Europe, after the Volga. It stretches approximately 2,850 kilometers (1,770 miles) in length. The Danube River flows southeastward and eventually empties into the Black Sea near the Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared by Romania and Ukraine. The Danube River originates in the Black Forest of Germany, specifically in the Black Forest Nature Park near the town of Donaueschingen. Its source is at an elevation of about 1,078 meters (3,537 feet) above sea level.
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​The Danube River has been an essential waterway for navigation and trade throughout history. It serves as a major transportation route, connecting countries and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The river is navigable for a significant portion of its course, allowing for inland shipping.
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The most popular Danube River cruise itineraries focus on the "upper" portion of the Rhine - Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. The "lower" portion itineraries include Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.
Cruise Lines that Sail the Danube
When Should You Sail the Danube?
Sailing on the Danube can be enjoyable during any season of the year. Pricing will tend to be lowest during low and shoulder seasons, though weather can be a little cooler during these time periods. But peak season brings tourist crowds and potentially hot summer days. Our preference is to sail April into early May or late September into October. If you are looking to sail during Christmas Market season, be sure to choose a sailing after markets open - typically late November into early December.
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Water level issues can crop up at at any time - read up on what causes issues and when they are most likely to occur on our Water Levels page.
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In general, the Danube River cruise season falls into these categories:​
January/February
Typically no sailings during this time of year.
May/June
This period is considered shoulder season.
September/October
This period is considered shoulder season.
March/April
This period is considered low season.
July/August
This period is considered peak season.
November/December
This period is Christmas Market season.
Select Countries & Cities Along the Danube
Germany
Regensburg is considered to be the best-preserved city center from the Middle Ages on the northern side of the Alps, while Passau is known for its gothic and baroque architecture.
Regensburg
Passau
Austria
Vienna, the capital city of Austria, is renowned for its rich history, cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and vibrant arts scene. The beauty of small towns like Krems and Melk are inspiring, and a visit to the Benedictine Abbey in Melk is a must.
Vienna
Melk
Krems
Linz
Slovakia
The charming Old Town in Bratislava makes a visit worthwhile, as does the town's stunning architecture and quirky sculptures.
Bratislava
Hungary
Budapest is a treasure trove of architectural styles, including Baroque, neoclassical, eclectic, and art nouveau. You can see these styles at sites like Buda Castle and Fisherman's Bastion. In addition, Budapest is known for its healing thermal waters and bathhouses.
Budapest
Serbia
Novi Sad is known for its music and art scene, while Belgrade offers a Bohemian vibe and a history that goes back to Roman times.
Belgrade
Novi Sad
Bulgaria
Nestled along the banks of the Danube River, Vidin is a hidden gem in Bulgaria that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Ruse offers a selection of neo-baroque architecture and impressive religious sites.
Vidin
Ruse
Suggested Danube Itineraries
Upper Danube:
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AmaWaterways' Romantic Danube
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Tauck's Heart of the Danube
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Uniworld's Enchanting Danube
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Avalon's Active & Discovery on the Danube
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Viking's Danube Waltz
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Lower Danube:
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AmaWaterways' Gems of Southeast Europe
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Tauck's Budapest to the Black Sea
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Uniworld's Highlights of Eastern Europe
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Avalon's Balkan Discovery
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Viking's Passage to Eastern Europe