The Danube is the second longest river in Europe, but when it comes to passenger traffic, it holds first place. No other European river sees as many cruise ships and tourists throughout the year. Its course runs through more than ten countries and connects important European cities such as Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade.
River tourism on the Danube has been steadily growing in recent years. There are more ships, docks, and passengers each year, with the greatest interest coming from Western Europe and the United States. Multi-day routes that connect historic cities, cultural attractions, and diverse landscapes make this river especially appealing to those seeking a different kind of travel experience – calmer, yet equally rich.
The navigation season usually lasts from March to November. During these months, the Danube is the busiest river route in Europe – some ships travel the entire length of the river, from Passau in Germany to the Black Sea. In a single season, you can find over 300 different passenger ships on the Danube, with thousands of crew members and guests from all over the world.
In addition to its length and geographical significance, the Danube has also become an important part of modern European tourism. More and more people are discovering it not only as a natural border and historic route, but also as a place where Europe can be experienced from the river – more peacefully, more slowly, and from a completely different perspective.
