Christmas Dream on the Danube

Passau is known as a three-river city and is the first port on the Danube that is navigable by cruise ships. From here the big tours via Vienna, Bratislava and down to the Black Sea start. But the city itself also has a lot to offer, such as the opera house, the Ilz, a small river that is great for hiking, or St. Stephens Cathedral and the old town hall. A visit to the Passau Glass Museum is particularly recommended, if you want to turn your back on the city, you can go to the Mariahilf pilgrimage church just outside.

Melk has acquired a nice name: The gateway to the Wachau. Anyone approaching the historic city on the Danube will see Melk Abbey very early on, towering high above the river. This is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and is well worth a visit in all seasons. The impressive baroque ensemble has been looked after by the monks of the Benedictine order since 1089. Culture, faith and science come together in the splendid rooms of the monastery.

Vienna is the capital of Austria and at the same time one of the federal states. The city on the Danube exudes the charm of the former imperial couple Franz Joseph I and Elisabeth, known as Sissi. The once splendidly built Schönbrunn Palace was the home of the Empress and can still be visited today. The beautiful garden and the adjacent zoo are one of the citys many highlights. A visit to St. Stephens Cathedral, Café Sacher and the Prater amusement park are part of every stay in Vienna.

Together with the Danube, Budapest forms the most beautiful landscape of a city on the river. Budapest is one of the most glamorous metropolises of the old Austro-Hungarian dual monarchy. The Hungarian capital is a must for city travelers. For lovers of the architecture of the early 20th century, Art Nouveau and the Secession, the lively city is a true Eldorado. The city is best explored on foot. A ride on the historic funicular is a special experience. UNESCO has declared the buildings on the banks of the Danube and the castle hill to be World Heritage Sites.

Esztergom is located in beautiful Hungary on the Danube and has numerous sights such as the basilica, the castle museum or the Mária Valéria Bridge. Nearby is the Danube Bend, a bend in the river and a nature reserve. From the bridge you have a unique view of the basilica. Outside the city is Lake Palatinus, a top-class local recreation area. The border with Slovakia is not far here either. If you want thermal cures, you should go to Slovakia.

The capital of Slovakia lies on the border with Austria and Hungary. Around 450,000 people live in it. The old town of Bratislava dates back to the 18th century and, thanks to the car-free zone, invites you to stroll. The citys famous dark beer is served in the cafés and bars there. The landmark of Bratislava – Hrad Castle is located on a hill. From its terrace you have the best view of the city and the Danube.

Linz (205,000 inhabitants) is the third largest city in Austria and the capital of the federal state of Upper Austria. It is located on the Danube and impresses with its rich cultural offer. Events such as the “Ars Electronica”, the Bruckner Festival and the “Pflasterspektakel” attract numerous visitors every year. Other attractions include the Ars Electronica Center, the Lentos Art Museum, the Botanical Garden and the imposing Mariendom. The landmark of Linz is located high above the city: it is the pilgrimage basilica on the Pöstlingberg, visible from afar.

Passau is known as a three-river city and is the first port on the Danube that is navigable by cruise ships. From here the big tours via Vienna, Bratislava and down to the Black Sea start. But the city itself also has a lot to offer, such as the opera house, the Ilz, a small river that is great for hiking, or St. Stephens Cathedral and the old town hall. A visit to the Passau Glass Museum is particularly recommended, if you want to turn your back on the city, you can go to the Mariahilf pilgrimage church just outside.