Christmas Cruise on the Danube

Located in Germany at the confluence of three rivers, the Danube, Inn, and Liz, the Bavarian town of Passau has a charm that attracts tourists from far and wide.  Rich in history, the town can trace its roots back to the 2nd century AD when it was established as a colony of the Roman Empire.

Today, the town boasts superb examples of Gothic and Baroque architecture, including the Cathedral of St. Stephen.  Built in 1688, this magnificent cathedral houses one of the world’s largest pipe organs and is a major attraction for visitors.  other notable buildings in the town include the Church of St. Michale and Lamberg Palais.  With a population of only just over 50,000, Passau is a peaceful town and not at all difficult to get around for visitors.

Bratislava, the capital city of Slovakia, lies on the Danube in the west of the country.  The city is renowned for its bar and cafe culture, giving the place a lively feel despite its population of under half a million.  Bratislava castle, rebuilt in the 1950s after a devastating fire over 100 years earlier, lies on the edge of the old town.  the city is full of parks and green spaces, with several lakes.  The old Town Hall dates from the 15th century and is Sovakia’s oldest city hall.  Nearby is the much more recent Man at Work, a humorous bronze sculpture by Viktor Hulik depicting a man climbing out of a manhole.  As the country’s capital, the city also contains a wide range of museums and galleries, as well as the National Theatre.

Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.  As the capital of Hungary, it is full of history and heritage with a mass of attractions, ancient and modern.  magnificently straddling the Danube, the city is as equally impressive to view from the water on a river cruise as when walking the streets. Everywhere is a feast for the eyes and the photo opportunities are endless.  Architecture is flamboyant with major attractions being the Royal Palace, Parliament, the Fisherman’s Bastion, Heroes Square, and the Basilica of St. Stephen.  Must-visits include the status in Memento Park and the House of Terror in the Jewish Quarter

The biggest Christmas market in Budapest always takes place in Vörösmarty square. During this period the square turns into a festive marketplace where you can buy some unique gifts for your loved ones and try the best of Hungarian cuisine.

Something else not to be missed is the Schechenyi Baths, one of the biggest natural hot spring spa baths in Europe.  It’s a terrific place to unwind the day after sampling the exceptional nightlife.  Budapest is super tourist friendly and budget-friendly.

Esztergom has a rich history.  It is the city where the first King of Hungary was born. His name was Saint Stephen and was also crowned the king of Hungary.  The city is located on the right bank of the Danube River, making the border between Hungary and Slovakia.  Visitors can tour the city, admiring the beautiful sights of the city.  Saint Stephen Square is the most beautiful square lying in a spectacular area near the castle hill close to the Basilica.  In the green areas that are attached to the Danube walkway, one can find shops and restaurants.  Aqua Island is an amazing, extensive bath complex in the city.  It has a building that is remarkable with plans on the rooftops.  The bat has a variety of equipment such as caves, slides, and infra saunas that visitors can enjoy.  In The Esztergom Castle Theater, there are several plays in which one can enjoy a unique experience.  The city also plays a significant role in promoting the culture of the Turkish.

Sitting on the majestic River Danube, Vienna is one of the most culturally-rich cities in Europe.  There is plenty to soak up in the capital of Austria.  The city has long been Europe’s spiritual home of classical music and the orchestrations of many of the great names seem to exude from the streets that are packed with magnificent architecture much of which reflects the grandeur of the imperial Hapsburgs.  Must-see attractions include the Hofburg Palace, Schloss Schonbrunn, and the City Hall.

The cultural richness is evident in a clutch of excellent museums such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna and the modern MUMOK.  You can catch a musical performance at the opera house or Musikverein or learn about the “City of Music” at the Hans Der Musik Museum.  The Austrian capital has a wonderful vibrant cafe scene and it’s easy to while away a few hours with a slice of sachertorte and a glass of apricot liqueur alongside an excellent coffee.

The River Danube changes its direction of flow, due to a bend in the river, in the Austrian city of Linz.  Visitors to Linz/Danube will enjoy the Donaupark which forms a part of the city’s cultural mile.  The park is located between the Brucknerhause music venue and the Kunstmuseum. The whole city can be viewed from Postlingberg Mountain. The 100-year-old Postlingberg tram provides a comfortable way of reaching the summit.  There is a connection from the city’s main square.

For a unique shopping experience, the Lanstrasse offers a selection of vintage boutiques providing previously owned furniture, designer fashions, and jewelry.  The Mariendom holds the title of the largest cathedral not only in Liz/Danube but in the whole country.  It boasts a capacity of 20,000 worshipers  A visit to Paul’s brewpub should provide a great experience for those with a taste for craft beer and a hearty meal.

Disembarkation after breakfast.