It’s no secret that the Danube region is one of the most popular destinations for travel by bike and boat. Would you like to know why? This extraordinary river not only breaks all records, but also offers amazing variety. The route along the Danube is like a small trip around the world where you’ll encounter many different landscapes and cultures! May we take you on an exciting journey of discovery?
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1. The Danube is the only river in Europe that flows from west to east
You may know that the Danube flows eastward from Germany to the Black Sea. What’s rarely mentioned is how unique that is. In all of Europe, there is no other major river that flows in the same direction. Its journey starts at the green foothills of the Alps in Germany and ends in the wide Danube delta in Romania.
2. The Danube crosses 10 different countries – that’s a world record
On its long way from Germany to Romania, the Danube sets a world record: it passes through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Moldova and Ukraine. At the same time, the distances passing through each of the different countries are distributed rather unevenly. While the Danube flows through Romania for more than a third of its length (1,075 km or 668 miles), you could easily miss the short trip through the small Republic of Moldova: Moldova’s southernmost tip only touches the river for a length of barely 400 meters (1,300 feet).
3. The Danube is the longest river in the EU
The Rhine is green with envy. At only 1233 kilometers (766 miles) long, it’s less than half as long as the Danube, which is a whopping 2,857 kilometers (1775 miles) long. That makes it the longest river in the EU and the second longest on the European continent. The record is held by the Volga with a length of 3,530 kilometers (2,193 miles).
4. A paradise for landscape scenery photographers
The stuff of scenery photographers’ dreams: winding watercourses, green hills, baroque monasteries and many stunning viewpoints along the way. At the Schlögener Schlinge, for instance, the Danube makes an elegant 180-degree turn that will take your breath away, whether you experience it from the ship or catch a bird’s eye view from a nearby lookout. Another example: Gellert Hill in Budapest is located right on the banks of the Danube and is famous for a reason: from here you have a truly spectacular view of the entire city. In Bratislava, the UFO observation deck is one of the landmarks of the Slovak capital. The futuristic-looking structure is integrated into a bridge pier and, at 95 meters (312 feet) high, offers a 360-degree panorama of the entire surrounding area. And these are just three of the many gorgeous views along the Danube. So be sure to pack your camera!
5. The Danube Cycle Path is one of the longest and most beautiful cycling routes in Europe
Exploring the Danube by bike is a great idea! Why? Because the Danube Cycle Path runs almost the entire length of the river, usually right along the banks. For the most part, the Danube Cycle Path runs on both sides of the river, following an ancient road that once connected Roman settlements, forts and fortresses. Along the way you’ll cross very diverse landscapes and pass beautiful castles, palaces and monasteries, as well as nature reserves. In the great plains that start in Lower Bavaria, pass through Upper Austria and the Marchfeld region and into Hungary, the cycle path often runs along flood embankments, offering magnificent views.
6. The Danube connects four different capitals with each other
It’s not enough that the Danube flows through 10 different countries. It also connects four very different capitals, each of which is worth a trip in its own right. Austria’s capital, Vienna, is a cultural treasure chest full of magnificent palaces and impressive museums. And, of course, there are the charming coffee houses where you should definitely try a piece of traditional Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake.
Following the course of the Danube eastward, you’ll soon reach Bratislava, Slovakia’s cozy capital. The stately castle towers over the medieval old town, visible from afar, which you can explore on a relaxing stroll.The third capital on the list is Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube”, considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. Imposing buildings such as the Parliament building, the Fishermen’s Bastion and the famous thermal baths make a visit to Budapest unforgettable.Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia, is another highlight on the Danube. The mixture of an eventful past and the lively cultural scene ensures that you’ll experience a fascinating interplay of East and West here.
7. The Danube flows through eight national parks
The Danube region is a true paradise for nature lovers. On its banks are eight different national parks: the Upper Danube Nature Park (Germany), the Donauleiten Nature Reserve (Germany), the Danube Floodplains National Park (Austria), the Duna-Ipoly Nemzeti National Park (Hungary), the Kopacki Rit Nature Park (Croatia), the Derdap National Park (Serbia), the Iron Gate Nature Park (Romania) and the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve (Romania). The Danube Delta has been on UNESCO’s World Heritage List since 1991. Its countless marshes and lakes are home to over 300 species of birds and 45 species of freshwater fish.
How can we help you?
Would you like to find out more about the Danube and experience the extraordinary landscapes along this majestic river for yourself? Then our Danube tours are the right choice for you!
If you have any questions about what we offer or about your travel options, please feel free to contact our travel experts!
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