Unabridged Danube, Main & Rhine: Bucharest to Amsterdam

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.

Guest love Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, because the Old City Center is for pedestrians only and easy to explore. Add the great local food, wine and beer and you understand why guests return.

In Vienna walk in the footsteps of famous composers like Mozart or Strauss, visit one of over one hundred museums, visit Palaces, listen to great music in the famous Opera House, watch the Lipizzaner horses train at the Spanish Riding School.

Dürnstein is famous for its beautiful blue and white abbey tower, the medieval city walls, delicious white wines and sweet apricots. For our active guests we recommend the hike up to the castle ruins overlooking the river.

Melk’s main attraction is the abbey, where Benedictine monks still live and dedicate their work to culture and education. Another highlight close by is the Erzherzog Franz Ferdinand Museum auf Castle Artstetten.

The port of Aschach, a technical stop on your cruise, is a small, but important river port that serves as a hub for transportation of goods and passengers along the Danube River. It is located on the northern bank of the river, about 15 kilometers west of the city of Linz. In addition to its role in the transportation of goods and passengers, the port of Aschach also serves as a hub for recreational activities along the Danube River. There are numerous hiking and cycling trails in the surrounding area, and the river is popular for fishing, boating, and other water sports

The city sits at the confluence of three rivers and had therefore military importance. The fortress Veste Oberhaus now houses the museum and the Dom features a great organ.

In the Middle Ages, Regensburg was one of the most important cities in the Holy Roman Empire and served as the site of numerous imperial diets (assemblies). During the Reformation, it played a significant role as a meeting place for Catholic and Protestant leaders who attempted to reconcile their differences. This effort ultimately failed, leading to the Thirty Years' War, which devastated much of Europe. In the 19th century, Regensburg became part of the Kingdom of Bavaria, and its economy flourished as a center of trade and industry. Regensburg is known for its stunning architecture, including the Gothic-style St. Peter's Cathedral and the historic Stone Bridge, which dates back to the 12th century. Today, its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A Bavarian Museum showcases the region's unique cultural heritage through an extensive collection of artifacts, artwork, and historical objects displaying everything from the area's early settlement and development to its modern-day traditions and customs. Another popular attraction in Regensburg is the historic Wurstkuchl, also known as the Sausage Kitchen. Located on the banks of the Danube River, this restaurant has been serving up traditional Bavarian sausages since the 12th century. According to local legend, the Sausage Kitchen was founded by a group of boatmen who would stop there for a hearty meal after a long day's work on the river. Today, the same sausages that have been served for centuries are on offer, along with a cold beer.

Kelheim, a charming town in Bavaria, Germany, is situated at the confluence of the Altmühl and Danube rivers, and is home to the Main-Danube Canal, an engineering marvel that connects the Main River in Bamberg to the Danube River in Kelheim. Completed in 1992, the canal includes 16 locks, aqueducts, and bridges, and allows for the transportation of goods from the North Sea to the Black Sea, bypassing the dangerous rapids of the Danube. The canal offers unique views of both rivers and passes through beautiful scenery. Kelheim is also known for its picturesque old town with colorful buildings and cobblestone streets, as well as its historical landmarks, including the Befreiungshalle, a monument built in the 19th century to commemorate the liberation of Germany from Napoleon, and the Kelheim Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery dating back to the 12th century. The town is surrounded by lush green hills and offers outdoor activities such as hiking and biking along the Danube Gorge, a narrow valley with towering rock formations. Kelheim is also known for its local breweries and beer, making it a must-visit destination in Bavaria for history, culture, and natural beauty.

Nuremberg is a city with a rich history that spans both medieval times and the 20th century. Its medieval old town is surrounded by 14th-century walls and features impressive Gothic architecture, including the Nuremberg Castle and the Church of St. Sebald, which date back to the 12th century. The city's medieval past is also evident in the beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, narrow alleys, and historic fountains that can be found throughout the city. However, Nuremberg is also known for its dark Nazi history, as it was the site of major Nazi rallies during the 1930s. The rallies were highly choreographed events designed to showcase the strength and unity of the Nazi Party and its followers. They featured parades of uniformed Nazi Party members, military displays, and speeches by Nazi leaders, including Adolf Hitler. Today, Nuremberg serves as a reminder of its complex past. While the city's medieval history can be seen in its architecture and landmarks, visitors can also learn about its role in the rise of the Nazi Party by visiting the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, designed by Nazi architect Albert Speer. Despite its troubled history, Nuremberg is a vibrant and diverse city that embraces its past while looking towards the future.

Nuremberg is a city with a rich history that spans both medieval times and the 20th century. Its medieval old town is surrounded by 14th-century walls and features impressive Gothic architecture, including the Nuremberg Castle and the Church of St. Sebald, which date back to the 12th century. The city's medieval past is also evident in the beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, narrow alleys, and historic fountains that can be found throughout the city. However, Nuremberg is also known for its dark Nazi history, as it was the site of major Nazi rallies during the 1930s. The rallies were highly choreographed events designed to showcase the strength and unity of the Nazi Party and its followers. They featured parades of uniformed Nazi Party members, military displays, and speeches by Nazi leaders, including Adolf Hitler. Today, Nuremberg serves as a reminder of its complex past. While the city's medieval history can be seen in its architecture and landmarks, visitors can also learn about its role in the rise of the Nazi Party by visiting the Nazi Party Rally Grounds, designed by Nazi architect Albert Speer. Despite its troubled history, Nuremberg is a vibrant and diverse city that embraces its past while looking towards the future.

Bamberg is a city in northern Bavaria, Germany, with a fascinating history that dates back to the 10th century. The city is situated on the Regnitz River, which flows into the Main River and is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and historic city center. The city also plays a significant role as a port city due to its location as a gateway to the Main-Danube Canal. The canal connects the Main and Danube rivers, and it is a crucial transportation route between the North Sea and the Black Sea. The canal's construction began in the 1960s and was completed in 1992, and it has since become an essential component of Europe's inland waterway system. Bamberg has a distinctive medieval architecture that has been well-preserved, including the Bamberg Cathedral and the Altes Rathaus. One of Bamberg's unique cultural offerings is its signature beer, the Rauchbier or smoked beer. The beer is brewed using a unique method that involves drying the malted barley over an open flame, giving the beer its distinctive smoky flavor. The beer has been brewed in Bamberg for centuries and is a significant part of the town's cultural heritage.

Eltmann is a small town in the Franconian wine-growing region of Bavaria. The town is nestled in the picturesque Main Valley and is surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards. Eltmann has a fascinating history that spans over a thousand years. The town was first mentioned in historical records in the 8th century as "Eltamanneshusun", which means "the houses of Eltman". At that time, it was a small settlement in the area controlled by the bishops of Würzburg. In the Middle Ages, Eltmann developed into a prosperous market town and the town's location on the Main River made it an ideal hub for transporting goods. In the 19th century, Eltmann became part of the Kingdom of Bavaria, and the town continued to grow and develop. In the 20th century, Eltmann was heavily damaged during World War II, but it was rebuilt and is now a thriving community that attracts visitors from all over the world.

Würzburg is a historic city located in the northern part of Bavaria, Germany. It is known for its stunning Baroque architecture, rich cultural heritage, and scenic location along the Main River. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Würzburg Residence, the Marienberg Fortress, and the Saint Kilian Cathedral. The city is also home to several museums and galleries, such as the Mainfränkisches Museum and the Museum am Dom. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside offers numerous hiking and biking trails that lead through the nearby vineyards and forests.

Karlstadt has a long and rich history, dating back to the 8th century. The city was originally founded by the Franks and was named after Charlemagne, who is known in German as Karl der Große (Charles the Great). In the Middle Ages, Karlstadt was an important trading center and a member of the Hanseatic League, a powerful commercial and defensive confederation of merchant guilds and market towns in Northwestern and Central Europe. The city's strategic location on the Main River made it a key transportation hub for goods and people traveling between Eastern and Western Europe. Throughout its history, Karlstadt has endured several wars and conflicts, including the Thirty Years' War, which devastated much of Germany in the 17th century. However, the city managed to recover and rebuild, thanks in part to its thriving wine industry and the emergence of new industries such as textiles and manufacturing. Today, Karlstadt is a vibrant and prosperous city that is proud of its rich cultural heritage and strong sense of community.

Miltenberg, located in the Lower Franconia region of Bavaria, Germany, was founded in the 12th century and rich in history. The town has a picturesque medieval center with half-timbered houses, cobbled streets, and an impressive market square. Miltenberg's history is not without dark moments however. The town was one of the locations where witch trials took place during the early modern period. Miltenberg is home to two towers known as the "witch towers," which were used as a prison for suspected witches during the witch hunts of the 17th century. The prisoners were subjected to brutal interrogations and torture to extract confessions. Today, the "witch towers" serve as a reminder of Miltenberg's dark history. Visitors can climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding countryside. The towers also host exhibitions and events that shed light on the town's Witch trials and the persecution of women accused of witchcraft during this period. Despite this dark history, Miltenberg is still a popular destination for tourists who come to explore the town's historical significance and enjoy its proximity to the famous Franken wine region.

Rüdesheim, wtih its historic buildings, winding streets and surrounding vineyards, is a popular destination. The towns history dates back to the Roman era, and over the centuries, it has been influenced by various cultures and traditions. One of the highlights of Rüdesheim is its wine culture. The town is home to some of the finest vineyards in Germany, and is particularly famous for its Riesling wine, which is made from grapes grown on the steep slopes of the nearby hills. A popular attraction is the Rüdesheim Cable Car, which offers breath-taking views. The cable car route is 1.4 kilometers long and takes visitors from the town center up to the Niederwald Monument, a 38-meter tall monument that commemorates the unification of Germany in 1871. Don’t miss a taste of the famous Rüdesheimer Kaffee, a specialty coffee drink that is made with Asbach Uralt, a type of German brandy, and topped with whipped cream.

Koblenz is a city steeped in history, with its origins dating back to Roman times when it was known as "Confluentes," a Latin term meaning "the confluence of two rivers." The city was strategically located at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, making it an important trading hub and military stronghold. Throughout its history, Koblenz has been the site of many battles and conflicts. During the Middle Ages, the city was heavily fortified, and many of the structures from that period, such as the city walls, towers, and gates, can still be seen today. The city is renowned for its stunning river scenery, which includes picturesque castles, vineyards, and historic buildings. The Rhine river, which is the longest river in Germany, offers a mesmerizing view of the city's skyline, while the Moselle river provides a quieter and more serene ambiance. The city has a wealth of historic architecture to explore. Visitors can marvel at the striking architecture of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, the impressive Deutsches Eck monument, and the charming Old Town, which boasts beautiful half-timbered houses and narrow streets.

Koblenz is a city steeped in history, with its origins dating back to Roman times when it was known as "Confluentes," a Latin term meaning "the confluence of two rivers." The city was strategically located at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, making it an important trading hub and military stronghold. Throughout its history, Koblenz has been the site of many battles and conflicts. During the Middle Ages, the city was heavily fortified, and many of the structures from that period, such as the city walls, towers, and gates, can still be seen today. The city is renowned for its stunning river scenery, which includes picturesque castles, vineyards, and historic buildings. The Rhine river, which is the longest river in Germany, offers a mesmerizing view of the city's skyline, while the Moselle river provides a quieter and more serene ambiance. The city has a wealth of historic architecture to explore. Visitors can marvel at the striking architecture of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, the impressive Deutsches Eck monument, and the charming Old Town, which boasts beautiful half-timbered houses and narrow streets.

Köln, also known as Cologne in English, is the fourth largest city in Germany with a population of over one million people. The history of Köln dates back over 2,000 years to the Roman Empire when it was known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium. It was founded in the year 50 AD by the Roman general Agrippa, and was named in honor of Emperor Claudius. It quickly became an important center of trade and commerce due to its strategic location on the Rhine River. Throughout the Middle Ages, Köln continued to thrive as a major trading center and was a key player in the Hanseatic League. It was also a center of art and learning, with the famous theologian and philosopher Thomas Aquinas studying at the University of Köln in the 13th century. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Köln was hit hard by wars and plagues, but managed to recover and continue to grow. In the 19th century, it became a major industrial center and played a key role in the development of Germany's chemical industry. Unfortunately, Köln suffered extensive damage during World War II, with nearly 90% of the city center destroyed. However, much of the historic architecture and cultural heritage was rebuilt and restored in the post-war period, including the famous Köln Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is known for its stunning canals, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House. The city is also home to numerous galleries and theaters, making it a hub for art and culture. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside offers numerous biking and walking trails, as well as opportunities for water sports on the many lakes and canals. And let's not forget the famous nightlife and coffee shops that make Amsterdam a unique destination for many visitors.

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is known for its stunning canals, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House. The city is also home to numerous galleries and theaters, making it a hub for art and culture. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside offers numerous biking and walking trails, as well as opportunities for water sports on the many lakes and canals. And let's not forget the famous nightlife and coffee shops that make Amsterdam a unique destination for many visitors.