In the Black
Originating in Germany's Black Forest, the Danube flows through nearly 1,800 miles of colorful scenery to the Black Sea.
The Dreamy Danube
The question really isn't to river cruise or not. Carefree cruising along the legendary waters of the world has become one of the most desirable and inspiring ways to travel. The decision, then, is where to make your splash. Do you choose by country? By sights? By cities? Unique experiences? This is what makes the Danube so dreamy – because when you choose to dip your toes into the Danube with Avalon, you choose all of the above.
Winding through ten fascinating countries, no other river offers a more encompassing view of the Old World. Yet passing clifftop castles, hillside vineyards, ancient villages, and even older forests, this wondrous waterway renews the soul. And flowing through four vibrant capital cities, the Danube is truly a bucket-list-maker's dream.
With such great depth, the Danube is just as fitting for the first-time river cruiser as it is for the seasoned and off-the-beaten-path traveler. Offering countless views, one-of-a-kind excursions, and unexpected ports of call, no one goes the distance along the Danube like Avalon Waterways. So whether you're testing the waters or diving into your next Danube River cruise, welcome aboard.
The Dish on the Danube
One of the most significant trade and transportation routes in European history, as well as the northern border of the Roman Empire, the Danube is one of the most celebrated bodies of water in the world. If your high school geography is a little fuzzy, however, here's a crash course – and the major highlights – of Europe's second longest river.
A Perfect Ten
Passing through a total of ten diverse countries – Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine – the Danube offers countless sightseeing opportunities.
Oh Wheelie?
For travelers who like to cruise in more ways than one, you can pedal along any stretch of the scenic Danube cycle path which follows the entire length of the river.
Park It
Wilderness and wildlife abound in the sixteen national parks and nature reserves along the river from Germany to Romania.
Bright Lights, Big Cities
In addition to the quaint villages along the legendary river, the Danube flows through the vibrant capital cities of Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade.
The Danube
First Timers
Winding through four, iconic capital cities – with views of fairytale castles and storybook villages along the way – a cruise on the Danube is the ideal choice for first-time river cruisers who long to see the sights they've always dreamed of.
Perfect Pick for First Timers:
DANUBE SYMPHONY
This delightful 6-day cruise on the Danube River strikes a chord as the perfect prelude to river cruising for first timers. Discover the bold and beautiful city of Budapest, the wonderous Wachau Valley, the vibrant sights of Vienna, and so much more!
Savvy Sightseers
One river. Ten countries. More than a dozen languages. The Danube connects seasoned travelers to the diverse culture, customs, and cuisine of Central and Eastern Europe in ways they've never experienced before.
Perfect Pick for Savvy Sightseers:
Balkan Discovery
Ideal for travelers who have already experienced the countries of the upper Danube, this enlightening cruise carries travelers from Budapest to Bucharest to discover the beauty and lure of the Balkan States of Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.
Been-There-Done-That-ers
By anchoring at unexpected locales along the Danube, Avalon takes cruisers off-the-beaten path, port, and parade. Returning visitors never repeat the same vacation.
Active & Discovery on the Danube
Going where other cruise lines don't, this unexpected cruise leads travelers to six new ports with a choice of nearly three dozen Active, Discovery, and Classic excursion options for ultimate customization.
Sail and See
Imperial grandeur, royal history, and regal pastries abound along Vienna's melodic, café-lined streets, including the mustn't miss 100-year-old Ringstrasse circling Vienna's inner city.
Bold and Beautiful Budapest
With its dramatic past, flamboyant architecture, and equally flashy nightlife, Budapest serves as the Danube River's exclamation point.
Brewtiful Bamberg
Nicknamed "The Rome of Germany," the historic, cobblestoned town of Bamberg built on seven scenic hills remains devoid of modern architecture – but full of its signature smoked beer.
Bustling Bratislava
Don't let the baroque palaces and Renaissance remembrances of this ancient city fool you. The capital of Slovakia's pedestrian-only old town has one of Europe's most youthful vibes.
Gorge-ous Iron Gates
A beautiful gorge that forms the boundary between Serbia and Romania, the Iron Gates present a photo worthy landscape nestled between two national parks.
Untouched Regensburg
Dating back to Roman times and miraculously escaping damage during World War II, Regensburg is one of the best preserved medieval cities in Germany.
The Magnificent Melk Abbey
It's difficult to decide which is better – the view of this baroque, hilltop abbey from your Panorama Suite, or the panorama view of the sweeping countryside from the abbey's terraced vineyards.
The Schlogener Schlinge
You needn't worry about the pronunciation of this dramatic river point, considered a natural wonder of Austria. When you lay your eyes upon this breathtaking loop, you'll be absolutely speechless.
Verdant Wachau
Known for its vineyard-clad rolling hills, cliffside fortresses, and stunning green valleys, this 18-mile stretch of the Danube is known for its delicious wines and delightful "wows."
Harmonious Vienna
Imperial grandeur, royal history, and regal pastries abound along Vienna's melodic, café-lined streets, including the mustn't miss 100-year-old Ringstrasse circling Vienna's inner city.
Dock and Do
There’s not just more in view on an Avalon river cruise down the Danube, there’s more to do, too. With our daily selection of Classic, Active, and Discovery excursions, you can truly dive into your destination however you please.
Don't Clam Up
Put your best foot forward when you meet the current Count of Clam in his majestic and medieval home, Burg Clam, a castle inhabited by the Clam family for over 500 years.
Have a Grape Day
With vineyard hikes from the crops to the cellars, you can skip and sip your way through some of the most famous wine regions of Europe.
Paddle or Pedal
Grab an oar or a pair of handlebars as you canoe or bike your way through the Wachau Valley, considered the most romantic stretch along the Danube.
Pucker Up
Enjoy a guided tour of Vienna’s Belvedere Palace, including the opportunity to witness Gustav Klimt’s renowned “The Kiss” painting.
Sashey Sautè
Join a foodie walking tour or even a cooking class in Budapest and Vienna where you can taste (or make!) local specialties like Weiner schnitzel and Sachertorte.
See What Ales You
Taste the differences in beers made by resident monks at the stunning rococo-style Engelszell Abbey, Austria’s only Trappist monastery.
Sink Your Teeth Into History
Drink in the scenery as you hike to the stunning Visegrád Castle where Count Dracula of Romania was imprisoned in the 15th century
Against the Stream
The Avalon Difference Along the Danube
While the Danube is the only major river in Europe that flows west to east, Avalon Waterways is the only river cruise operator to offer more desirable options to travelers, including:
More Views
No other river cruise company provides cruisers an entire fleet of Suite Ships featuring one-of-a-kind Panorama Suites, Open-Air Balconies, and beds that face the Danube views on two full decks.
More Itineraries
With nearly 30 cruise itineraries in our Danube vacation portfolio, Avalon Waterways offers more ways to discover the Danube than any other river cruise line.
Greater Flexibility
Our Danube itineraries range from 6 to 27 days, offering travelers the widest selection of vacations to suit a variety of vacation schedules.
More Customization
Our exclusive Avalon Choice® excursion menu offers vacation personalization with a varied selection of Classic, Active, and Discovery sightseeing options.
More Immersion
Avalon Waterways is the only river cruise company that offers Active & Discovery cruises, a collection of itineraries with a selection of more active and culturally immersive experiences.
Greater Affordability
Only Avalon Waterways provides a selection of Danube river cruise vacations priced under $1,000!
More Time
With Avalon YourWay cruising, Avalon Waterways is also the only river cruise company that invites travelers to seamlessly add time in European cities – with included sightseeing and transfers – before and after each cruising vacation.