Lower Danube 5-Country Potpourri

The Ottomans built the Clock Tower in the centre of the city in 1771 as a watchtower. They ruled the strategically important city on the Danube for a long time, and the ruins of the 14th-century fortress still bear witness to its eventful past. It was not until the 19th century that the tower began to tell the time. Back then, Giurgiu was known throughout Europe to wealthy globetrotters because the legendary Orient Express stopped here. Now crusaders are discovering the border town. A 2.2-kilometre-long bridge over the Danube connects it to Ruse on the Bulgarian bank.

Ruse not only has the largest Danube port and the highest television tower in Bulgaria. The imposing urban ensemble, known as "Little Vienna", has been awarded the European Heritage Label. Magnificent Belle Epoque buildings, the Opera House, the Palace of Justice and the Pantheon of the Heroes of the National Revival line Freedom Square. With wide boulevards, green squares and an extensive Danube promenade, Ruse is perfect for strolling.

Ruse not only has the largest Danube port and the highest television tower in Bulgaria. The imposing urban ensemble, known as "Little Vienna", has been awarded the European Heritage Label. Magnificent Belle Epoque buildings, the Opera House, the Palace of Justice and the Pantheon of the Heroes of the National Revival line Freedom Square. With wide boulevards, green squares and an extensive Danube promenade, Ruse is perfect for strolling.

Welcome to the southernmost point on the Danube! The Romans fought the barbarians here in ancient times, the Austrians and Ottomans signed a historic peace treaty in 1791, and the Russians and Turks fought each other. Today, Swischtow is a charming little town with pretty alleys, well-preserved historic buildings and a picturesque riverside promenade. And the Cathedral of the Holy Trinity has stood on the highest hill since 1867.

One of Bulgaria's oldest towns nestles like a crescent on the banks of the Danube, dominated by the imposing medieval fortress of Baba Vida. It offers a glimpse into its eventful history - and a view of the enchanting river landscape. Vidin is a city of architectural diversity - ancient traces of the Thracians and Romans, Bulgaria's second largest cathedral, magnificent Ottoman buildings and an unadorned socialist heritage. An enchanting journey through time.

Well-fortified: The 13th-century Severin Castle was not the first fortress here; the Romans secured this area 2,000 years ago: the remains of ancient Drobeta are now an open-air museum. The Wallachian town preserves the traces of its history and has been called Drobeta-Turnu Severin since 1972. An ancient landmark, Trajan's Bridge, once spanned the Danube for more than 1000 metres. Some of its mighty pillars still stand.

The Serbian capital city has much to offer; the fortress is a testament of Belgrade’s importance through history. Visit the Nikola Tesla Museum or learn more about former Yugoslavia via the museum of the same name. Explore on foot or by bike.

The city is located close to the Serbien border and was the scene of much armed conflict during the war from 1991 to 1995. Signs can still be seen today. The port is surrounded by wineries and close by are interesting archeological sites.

Kalosca is one of Hungary’s oldest cities and the perfect blend of traditional and modern. Lovely old buildings, quaint shops selling paprika and embroidery sit side by side with modern apartment blocks and offices.

Budapest has much to offer like the Castle Garden Bazaar, the Fisherman’s Bastion or Mathias Church. There are plenty of highlights to explore or guests can choose to relax in one of the many hot springs spas the city is famous for.

Budapest has much to offer like the Castle Garden Bazaar, the Fisherman’s Bastion or Mathias Church. There are plenty of highlights to explore or guests can choose to relax in one of the many hot springs spas the city is famous for.