Danube River Cruises

What could be a more perfect choice for your next vacation than a river cruise on the beautiful Blue Danube? Springing up in the town of Donaueschingen in Germany’s Black Forest, this great waterway flows southeast for 1,785 miles before emptying itself into the Black Sea at Sulina in eastern Romania. Along its vast length, the Danube passes through or borders no less than ten countries, and drains into nine more. It also flows through four national capital cities - Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade - more than any other river in the world.

The ancient origins of its name are lost in the mists of time – with contenders including a bringer of luck, a Vedic river goddess, and even words meaning swift, violent and undisciplined. But your Blue Danube river cruise vacation is far more serene than that. Gliding peacefully between its famous and endlessly enchanting river banks, you’ll experience for yourself the calm delights that inspired “the beautiful blue Danube” of Johann Strauss’s immortal waltz and lullaby. Music is everywhere on the shores of the river Danube – from the wild genius of Mozart in Salzburg to Beethoven, Brahms, and an entire family of Strausses in classical Vienna. You’ll follow in the wake of emperors and kings on your Danube river cruise, too.

Ever since the time of the Holy Roman Emperor Frederick I of Barbarossa and King Richard I of England, the powerful rulers of Europe and their retinues used this great river to travel and to control their lands - avoiding the often exhausting nature of transportation overland. No wonder, then, that so many fascinating historical sights await you at every turn as your river cruise takes you effortlessly down the Danube – from imposing castles, mighty fortresses, exquisite baroque churches and quiet abbeys to sumptuous palaces, elegant gardens and the most wonderfully preserved medieval towns and villages.

Free Superior drinks package with 2024 European river cruises

 

 

Enjoy a free Superior drinks package on all 2024 European river cruises. Fall in love with some of the world's most scenic rivers, passing charming landscapes and cityscapes. Add to that a well-timed, well-chosen glass of wine or classic cocktail (best enjoyed at sunset, up on deck) – and the temptation becomes too great to resist.

With lunch in our restaurants:

• Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic  
• Draught beer, including non-alcoholic  
• A selection of soft drinks and juices 

From 6pm to midnight in our bars and restaurants, all of the above plus:

• Our cocktail and mocktail of the day  
• House spirits and mixers (gin, vodka, rum and whisky)  
• A recommended regional wine during dinner  
• Martini & Sherry pre-dinner  
• Port & Brandy after dinner  

View more about our Superior drinks package.