DANUBE RIVER
The Danube River continues to be the most popular river worldwide on which our clients choose to cruise. And why shouldn’t it be?
This second longest river in Europe drifts through Central and Eastern Europe’s countries and through Austria’s beautiful Wachau Valley. With large cities and charming towns steeped in history, beautiful scenery, cultures to experience, foods to taste and adventures awaiting, the Danube is a perfect place for explorers to travel. And sailing is the best way to visit these iconic places.
Cruises only sailing the Danube range from 6-16 days, depending on the ship operator. There are longer sailings available which combine the Danube with the Main River and possible also the Moselle and/or Rhine.
River cruise lines sailing this region include AmaWaterways, Avalong Waterways, CruisiEurope, Emerald Waterways, Riviera, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld and Viking River Cruises. With well over 50 ships sailing this 1,777 river from Germany to Ukraine, there are options galore.
TRAVEL BASICS
Climate
It’s warmest June through August. June is the rainiest month while spring also brings snow melting which trickles down to the river. December through March can be cold.
Best Time to Visit
Days are longest in June and July. May through September is the prime cruising season. Additionally, late November through December is a popular time due to Christmas celebrations and markets.
Though it doesn’t happen often, water levels can affect the ability for ships to sail on rivers. If there is too much rain or excessive snow melting in the Alps, the water level can be too high for ships to get through locks and under bridges. If the water level is too low from lack of enough rain, ships may not be able to navigate the river. Droughts are mostly likely to occur in August through October. As with other areas around the world, weather isn’t fully predictable.
Language
Local languages vary by country visited. Depending on the river cruise company, many use English as their primary shipboard language and offer excursions using English.
Money Matters
Shipboard accounts are typically offered in U.S. dollars and Euros. European countries along the Danube River use the Euro with the exception of Hungary which uses the forint. ATMs are often available in ports whereby you can use your Visa or MasterCard branded debit card to obtain local currency. Foreign transaction fees may apply. Check your bank in advance about their rates. Some river cruise lines offer currency exchange in limited amounts.
Passport & Visa
U.S. citizens can travel this region as a tourist for up to 90 days without a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the return travel date. You must have access to sufficient funds during your stay and have proof of onward travel or return flights. *
*Visa information is subject to change.