Danube River Cruises
Let the legendary "River of Kings" carry you through the heart of Europe on an unforgettable Danube river cruise for your next holiday. Explore spectacular art, music, and history in Europe's ‘cultural lifeline’, as this wonderous waterway winds its way through mesmerising landscapes to connect some of the continent’s most vibrant capitals that have shaped its culture for millennia.
Our variety of Danube cruise holidays offers you endless choice to discover this ever-popular cruise route, allowing you to unravel its mysteries and the magnificent destinations it invites you to explore, where you’ll only need to unpack once, yet you’ll wake up to a new adventure each day.
Picture yourself savouring your morning coffee on deck as medieval castles, fairytale villages, and terraced vineyards drift past your window. Then step ashore to wander through historic cities where Mozart composed masterpieces, kings were crowned, and empires rose and fell.
Sail to the magnificent capital cities of Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava, each with their own distinct character, and enjoy scenic cruising through Austria's picturesque Wachau Valley. Not to forget Germany's verdant Black Forest, and the wildlife paradise of Romania's Danube Delta. Expect to uncover up to ten fascinating countries that lie along the Danube’s route, offering one of the most convenient ways to unravel the varied beauty of Europe. You’ll moor in a different port every day, take part in shore excursions from the ship, and indulge in local delicacies, all while returning each evening to the comfort and convenience of your floating home.
Whether you're drawn to world-class architecture, fascinating history, delectable cuisine, or you prefer lavish escapes or leisurely exploration, our Danube river cruises deliver unforgettable moments that will stay with you long after you return home. Browse our luxury Danube cruises today to bring you one step closer to the holiday of a lifetime.
Cruise Collection
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Passau (Germany) - UK, Vienna (Austria), Esztergom - Budapest (Hungary), Belgrade (Serbia), Vidin (Bulgaria), Oltenita - Fetesti (Romania), Danube Delta - St George, Hi
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UK - Bucharest (Romania), Bucharest - Fetesti, Danube Delta - St George, Hirsova, Svishtov (Bulgaria) , Iron Gates, Belgrade (Serbia), Mohacs (Hungary), Budapest , Brat
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UK - Passau (Germany) , Linz (Austria) , Krems , Vienna , Bratislava (Slovakia) , Budapest (Hungary) , Budapest - UK
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Budapest (Hungary), Mohacs - Pecs, Vukovar (Croatia) - Novi Sad (Serbia), Belgrade, Cruising the Iron Gates, Vidin (Bulgaria), Veliko Tarnovo - Rousse (Bulgaria), Giurg
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Budapest (Hungary), Bratislava (Slovakia), Vienna (Austria), Krems - Spitz, Linz, Passau (Germany) - Vilshofen
UK - Passau (Germany), Regensburg, Passau - Linz (Austria), Melk/Emmersdorf - Vienna, Bratislava (Slovakia), Esztergom (Hungary) - Budapest, Budapest - UK
Budapest (Hungary), Vienna (Austria), Durnstein – Melk, Passau (Germany), Regensburg , Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg, Miltenberg, Rudesheim, Cologne - Bruhl, Amsterdam (
Budapest , Bratislava, Vienna, Dürnstein > Melk , Brandstatt > Passau, Regensburg, Regensburg > Munich
UK - Budapest (Hungary), Bratislava (Slovakia), Vienna (Austria), Melk, Linz, Passau (Germany), Passau - UK
UK - Amsterdam (Holland), Andernach - Koblenz, Rudesheim, Miltenberg, Wurzburg , Bamberg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau - Linz (Austria), Melk - Durnstein, Vienna, Buda
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UK - Amsterdam (Holland) , Amsterdam - Utrecht, Cologne (Germany), Rudesheim, Miltenberg - Wertheim, Wurzburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau , Melk/Emmersdorf
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Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Melk, Dürnstein, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest
About River Danube Cruises
Why You Should Sail on Danube River Cruises
Imagine experiencing a selection of Europe’s most fascinating countries, without the hassle of trains, planes, or automobiles. Imagine no packing and unpacking every time you travel between destinations, and absolutely no need to navigate foreign transportation systems. Well, that’s exactly what you can expect, and more, from cruises on the Danube.
Your luxury Danube cruise vessel docks right in the heart of historic towns and iconic cities along its route, from which you can step into and be away from some of Europe’s most iconic attractions and fascinating sights. Whether it’s the likes of Budapest's magnificent Parliament building, Vienna's grand boulevards, or Bratislava’s charming cobblestone streets, they’re all only a few steps away thanks to the convenience of Danube river cruises. And, of course, when you return from exploring, your comfortable room, fantastic onboard amenities, and even more fantastic onboard crew are waiting to welcome you back.
Of course, the Danube River also offers other benefits that make it the crown jewel of European river cruising. For instance, its route through ten countries offers unparalleled cultural diversity. After all, where else can you experience German, Hungarian, Austrian, Serbian, Bulgarian, and Romanian cultures in a single journey? It's this diversity that gives rise to an engaging and awe-inspiring blend of vibrant hubs, untouched landscapes, and delectable delicacies, which each day bring new delights and amazements.
Geography and Route
The mighty Danube stretches 1,770 miles from Germany's Black Forest to the Black Sea, making it Europe's second-longest river after the Volga. Its vast length acts as a living timeline of European history and culture, stretching across ten countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Croatia, Hungary, Bulgaria, Serbia, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine, explored onboard cruises on the Danube. What you can expect from some of these destinations includes:
- Germany: Often, Danube river cruises commence in Germany from Passau, one of the country’s oldest cities, which is known for its distinct baroque architecture and impressive cathedral, home to Europe’s largest pipe organ.
- Austria: Cruisers will glide through the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley and wine region, with its terraced vineyards, and can visit the magnificent 900-year-old Benedictine Abbey of Melk in many itineraries.
- Slovakia: Bratislava, the country's capital, has a charming old town home to medieval towers, Habsburg influences, and Baroque palaces, which people love.
- Hungary: Experience the undisputed highlight of any Danube river cruise - Budapest - and explore both sides of the city for a comprehensive insight into its rich history.
- Croatia and Serbia: These lesser-visited countries have hidden regions that are uncovered by Danube river cruises, with Orthodox monasteries, dramatic gorges, and Baroque towns at every turn.
- Bulgaria and Romania: Where rural villages and ancient fortresses lie in peace, and the remarkable Danube Delta, a beautiful UNESCO Biosphere Reserve teeming with wildlife.
History and Cultural Significance
For thousands of years, the Danube River has been a critical waterway to cultures between the East and West of Europe, supplying goods, ideologies, and even entire armies that have shaped the course of history for the continent. The ancient Romans called the Danube their ‘northern frontier’, and medieval kingdoms flourished along its banks, which is why the route is so heavily dotted with ancient fortresses, magnificent castles, and sacred cathedrals that cruisers can still admire today.
The beauty of the Danube has been encapsulated by artists across eras, too. Johann Strauss immortalised the river in his "The Blue Danube" waltz, and other artists like Beethoven and Hundertwasser drew much inspiration for their masterpieces from its exceptional beauty.
Having witnessed the rise and fall of wars, the Danube now serves as a symbol of European unity and cooperation, connecting diverse nations seamlessly and creating a landscape of shared heritage.
The true beauty of a luxury Danube cruise is that you can experience this living history firsthand, walking in the footsteps of ancient civilisations, learning of the rise and fall of empires, and seeing the remnants of great nations right before your eyes.
Whether it’s when you’re exploring the medieval city of Regensburg in Germany, whose bridge was the first built over the Danube, or exploring Vienna, Austria’s capital and a centre of art, culture and history, you’ll be amazed at every turn by what this exceptional waterway has in store.
Highlights of the Danube River
Cruises on the Danube River offer many highlights. From stunning architectural marvels to picturesque vineyards, the river’s banks are lined with historic treasures, natural beauty, and lively capitals. Here are some of the many highlights you can expect on board a Danube river cruise:
Austria: Vienna and the Vineyards of the Wachau Valley
On luxury Danube river cruises, Austria is one of the highlights. The Wachau Valley is a lush destination filled with terraced vineyards and medieval villages, which many liken to a vision you’d find in a painting in a museum.
Vienna’s grandeur and sophistication are waiting for cruisers in Austria, with its world-class museums, opulent cafés, and luxury establishments offering an elevated atmosphere. Walk in the footsteps of Mozart and Freud while admiring exceptional architecture spanning Gothic to Art Nouveau.
Hungary: Budapest and Rural Charm
This magnificent city is a highlight for river cruisers. Equally stunning day or night, when Budapest's Parliament Building is illuminated, the city has an unforgettable skyline, with Buda Castle and Matthias Church featuring prominently.
Unique cultural experiences are around every corner in Budapest, like the historic Széchenyi Thermal Bath, fed by natural hot springs, and its vibrant Central Market Hall filled with traditional bites to eat and local wines.
Venture beyond the capital to discover the rural charms of Hungary, from the artists' town of Szentendre to the gorgeous Danube Bend, surrounded by forested hills.
Eastern Danube: the Danube Delta and a Lesser-Visited Corner of Europe
The Lower Danube unveils lesser-explored areas of Europe. But, this is by no means any less fascinating a destination to explore on your Danube River cruise.
Romania and Bulgaria offer glimpses of rural life that have remained unchanged in many ways, with towns frozen in time and ancient fortifications still standing proudly. Towns like Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's medieval capital, and Constanța, founded by the Greeks over 2,000 years ago, give an insight into the ancient civilisations that have called these countries home.
Many Danube river cruises guide travellers to the remarkable Danube Delta, which is Europe's largest wetland and a UNESCO World Heritage site. An oasis of tranquil lakes and islands, the area is home to over 300 bird species and immense biodiversity, making it a firm favourite amongst wildlife enthusiasts.
Other highlights on Danube river cruises include:
- Medieval Regensburg
- The ice-blue baroque town of Dürnstein
- Passau’s ornate architecture
- Melk and its 900-year-old Benedictine Abbey
- Linz’s baroque architecture
- A shore excursion to Salzburg, the setting for the Sound of Music
River Danube Ports
A cruise on the Danube River and her tributaries offers the opportunity to enjoy the passing scenery and go ashore to explore a variety of riverside attractions
Vienna, Austria
Vienna is famous for its delicious pastries, the waltz and romantic architecture. Along the broad Ringstrasse is the beautiful Austrian National Library and cafés and shops line Kärntnerstrasse. Visits may be offered to Hofburg Palace, the Vienna Opera House or nearby Schönbrunn Palace, which was the grand summer residence of the Habsburgs. It has formal gardens, the first zoo and an atmospheric faux-Roman folly.
Budapest, Hungary
The Danube divides the capital of Hungary into old Buda and cosmopolitan Pest. In the Pest district are graceful mansions leading to the vast and imposing Hero’s Square. Across the river is the famous Chain Bridge and in the hill-top castle district is Buda Castle and its fine gardens, the Royal Palace and the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion.
Bratislava, Slovakia
The quaint streets of Bratislava lead to lively squares and medieval St Michael's Gate, topped with a 51-meter tower and a balcony with fantastic views of the old city. Bratislava has the oldest Town Hall in Slovakia and many impressive Baroque palaces. Highlights include the grand Pramatial Palace, St Martin's Cathedral and 13th-century Bratislava Castle.
Melk, Austria
Melk is famous for the vast Benedictine Abbey on a hill-top above the town. It is still in use as a monastery and tours of its historic interior are usually offered, with views from the hill of the town's red roofs below. Situated in the Wachau valley, Melk is surrounded by the remains of a city wall.
Durnstein, Austria
In the Wachau Valley wine region is the pretty and romantic town of Dürnstein with cobble-stoned streets, medieval buildings, 16th-century burgher houses and inviting taverns. It is well-known for the fabulous, wedgewood-blue Stiftskirche, a baroque church overlooking the waterfront, and for the hill-top remains of a castle where Richard the Lionheart was held prisoner during the Crusades in 1192.
Which Danube River Cruise is Right for You?
One of the perks of Danube River cruises is that its beauty can be experienced whether you have just a few days to spare or several weeks, with varied itineraries available. And not only that, but whether you seek the most luxurious river voyages or ones that offer great value for money, there’s a perfect Danube river cruise waiting for you.
Lengths of Danube River Cruises:
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Short Danube River Cruises (3-5 days):
In less than a week, these condensed voyages along the Danube River normally showcase the beauty that lies between Vienna and Budapest, or venture to the vineyard-lined Wachau Valley. You’ll have a fantastic, whistle-stop tour of some of the river’s best highlights, and these act as a great add-on to other longer European trips.
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Classic Danube River Cruises (7-8 days):
The most popular Danube River cruises are week-long voyages that normally explore the Upper Danube area, venturing from Passau to Budapest and showing as many as three to four countries. Offering a more immersive and varied journey all within the short span of a week, if you’ve got the time to spare, this is a fantastic option for a Danube River cruise.
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Extended Danube River Cruises (10+ days):
For an in-depth exploration of the Danube to soak in as much history and culture as it can offer, more comprehensive 10+ day journeys along the waterway roam from Germany to the Black Sea, discovering not only must-visit cities, but also lesser-discovered destinations like Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.
Types of Danube River Cruises:
Luxury Danube River Cruises
For discerning travellers seeking only the finest of experiences, luxury Danube River cruises guarantee an elevated and sophisticated way of cruising this exceptional waterway, with unparalleled service and amenities, including:
- Elegant suites, many with floor-to-ceiling windows or private balconies
- Gourmet dining experiences showcasing local specialities and premium regional wines
- An attentive concierge service
- Exclusive experiences unavailable to other travellers, such as private concerts or after-hours museum visits
Mid-Range Danube River Cruises
Mid-range Danube River cruises don’t compromise quality, but offer a more affordable trip for those wanting their budgets to stretch further. Accommodations and comprehensive experiences onboard these cruises may include:
- Well-designed staterooms with beautiful views and fantastic amenities
- High-quality dining showcasing regional specialities
- Excellent shore excursions, led by knowledgeable local guides
- Fantastic onboard activities, including language lessons, cooking demonstrations, and cultural presentations
Budget-Friendly Danube River Cruises
Those who are on a budget don’t have to miss out on a Danube River cruise, as many sailings don't require a premium price tag. Value-oriented Danube River cruises typically offer:
- Comfortable accommodations with all of the necessary amenities
- Quality dining with regional influences
- Fantastic sightseeing opportunities to see the main sights and highlights along the Danube
- Friendly service and atmosphere onboard
Themed Danube River Cruises
For those seeking a particularly memorable sailing, certain cruises on the Danube offer unique themed sailings, which can include:
- Wine-focused departures, with vineyard visits, expert-led tastings, and lectures about local wine regions
- Festive holiday sailings, showcasing the region's spectacular Christmas markets and traditions
Discover the wonders of the Danube, no matter your budget,
with our variety of Danube River cruises for an unforgettable experience tailored to your wants and needs.
What to Expect on a Danube River Cruise
Unlike ocean vessels, Danube River cruise ships offer a more intimate experience, typically only carrying 100-200 guests. But, Danube vessels’ smaller size and capacity do not mean the onboard amenities and facilities are in any way undeserving, as you’ll find comfortable staterooms serving as your own private ‘home away from home’, with exceptional views often with the option of balconies. Luxury Danube cruises even offer full walk-out verandas, in many cases.
Not only this, but comfortable lounges with panoramic windows, wellness areas with gyms and massage services, small pools, and spacious dining areas onboard Danube River vessels make your sailing experience all the more comfortable. You’ll find that local cuisine and regional gastronomy are a central part of a Danube River cruise experience. As such, regionally-inspired menus onboard vessels showcase the very best of local gastronomy, and much-loved delicacies that are firm favourites amongst locals. Expect dishes like Wiener Schnitzel in Austria, and Hungarian goulash in Budapest, and you’ll often find regional beers and wines onboard, too, for a fully immersive Danube dining experience.
Your Danube cruise holiday typically includes guided tours in each port, too, allowing you to gain knowledge and insight from local experts, who are passionate about exploring their home cities and countries with you. Embrace an array of activities you can choose from in your spare time, like active hiking trips, or even just enjoying free time in cosy cafés away from the tourist-trodden trail.
To unwind after a day of exploration, expect immersive entertainment showcasing the authentic culture of the destinations you’re visiting, from Hungarian folk dancers to classical music performances.
Customer Reviews
Balkan Discovery Cruise
by P.MartinThis was our first river cruise and we were unsure what to expect. Our apprehensions were immediately dispelled by Bart, our cruise director, who met us at the Athenee Hilton Hotel in Bucharest. Bart proved to be an excellent cruise director guiding us through 4 countries, two time zones and several very interesting destinations.
The vessel (as the Austrian Captain liked to call it) was a new one for 2016 and was outstandingly well equipped. We thoroughly enjoyed the open seating plan in the dining room together with a very high standard of cuisine and the flexibility the dining arrangements allowed. We joined in some of the included tours, all of which were well organised, highly informative and led by English speaking guides who were both knowledgeable about the sights we visited and enthusiastic about the countries they represented, taking time to explain some of the history and culture of the regions. All tours were in good class air-conditioned coaches and headsets provided.
We visited Orthodox churches, Christian cathedrals, castles, forts, rock formations, caves, monasteries, mountain retreats and archeological sites. We tasted local spirits and foods and listened to an organ recital in a Hungarian cathedral. Onboard, we had lectures on Communism, demonstrations of iconography, folk dancing and a talk by an Bulgarian orthodox priest in addition to the nightly entertainment from the resident pianist and a show from the ships crew. There was also time for free exploration at the ports of call - a feature which the cruise director encouraged by providing us with detailed maps of the area and synopses of the places we might visit. Being used to this sort of travel in the past we much appreciated this aspect of the cruise.
The highlight of this cruise was for us the passing through the grand locks and the cruise through the mighty Iron Gates gorge in Serbia. A truly wonderful experience. Disembarkation in Budapest to the Intercontinental hotel was smooth as were all transfers and VIP door to door service. On the vessel, on the tours and in the transfers all people spoke English. Most of our fellow travellers were US some Canadians and a few British.
This holiday exceeded our expectations by miles. We must thank Blue Water for finding it for us and negotiating such a good deal. We would recommend Blue Water and particularly Avalon Waterways to any one who is looking for a stimulating and exciting travel experience. .......and that is from 70yr olds who have travelled a lot. Thank you again for bringing this tour to us.
The Romantic Danube
by F.BrownThe river boat was immaculate, well run, and luxurious. The food was excellent and the moving scenery beautiful. Lots of excursions and something new every day, great fun.
River Danube Christmas Markets With Amawaterways
by S.BrownWe were welcomed onboard AmaLyra by friendly faces at reception. After settling in to our spacious cabin, we made our way down to the Lounge for a Welcome Talk by the Captain before going down to the restaurant.
For lunch and dinner there was a choice of meals, and some extra options incase you didnt want any of the main meals...steak and chips was often very popular amongst all the guests! Some of the dishes on the main menu included local delicacies.
We spent our first evening on the sun deck, taking in the views of the Budapest Illuminations as we cruised along the River Danube.
Each evening when we returned to our cabains, we found a schedule for the next day so we knew what the plan was. There were plenty of excursions available to suit all interests and fitness levels.
Visiting the Christmas markets in each of the towns, particularly Vienna and Budapest made it a very special way to see in the festive season.
Would I recommend this cruises - I certainly would!
Danube River Cruise FAQs
The cruise season on the Danube runs from March to December, and every season offers something different. Spring is a beautiful time to cruise, as the riverbanks come to life with spring flowers. It is cooler and there will be less people about, suiting those who like to explore without crowds. Summer appeals to those cruisers who love the sun, as temperatures can rise high and sunshine is more or less guaranteed in July and August. Autumn is another great time to cruise the Danube as wine harvesting means visits to local vineyards are offered. Christmas markets open at the end of November, and festive decorations are put up, creating a warm, cosy atmosphere on board the river ships, and on shore.
For more information on the best time to cruise the Danube, see our dedicated blog Best Month to Cruise the Danube
A lot of Danube cruises last seven days, and this is usually ample time to see the popular ports of call like Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava and Austria’s pretty Wachau Valley. Some cruises last 10-14 days, meaning that you can explore more Danube ports in relaxed comfort. Pre and post cruise stays are also available on Danube cruises, usually in Budapest, Vienna, or even Transylvania.
All cruise lines offer cruises on a full board basis, so all meals are included, many with different dining options. Some cruise lines like Uniworld and Scenic offer all-inclusive luxury with drinks included at all times, whereas others offer complimentary drinks with meals. Most river cruise lines include gratuities and free Wi-Fi on board.
If there are particular inclusions you require from your river cruise, ask your Blue Water Holidays cruise experts for more information on 01756 706500.
Most cruise lines on the Danube include excursions, and even offer a choice of excursions to appeal to different interests. These could be visits to places of cultural interest, like castle tours, museums and galleries, or more active excursions like walking or cycling. A typical excursion on the Danube could be a guided tour of a city like Vienna, with the option to take in a classical musical concert.
As a tourist using a British passport you can travel to Europe for up to 90 days without a visa. You will need to make sure your passport has an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the date of your return to the UK. We always advise that you check visa requirements with your relevant government agency.
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