The 12 Best Ports To Visit On a Danube Cruise With TUI

This is a sponsored post for TUI River Cruises

Thinking about a Danube river cruise? It’s one of the best rivers in Europe for a relaxing getaway, with an incredible blend of capital cities and quieter towns, alongside stunning scenery to pass the time as your ship slowly sails by.

And with a TUI river cruise, there are plenty of river cruise itineraries to choose from on the Danube – so how do you know which is the right one for you?

In this guide, I’ve picked out 12 of the best ports you can visit on a TUI river cruise on the Danube, looking at both the Upper and Lower Danube. Find your favourites, and then you can check out the TUI itineraries which sail to them to find your dream cruise.

Vienna, Austria

Discover the enchanting allure of Vienna, Austria’s capital. Marvel at the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace, a Baroque masterpiece surrounded by picturesque gardens. Immerse yourself in the city’s musical legacy, from the historic Vienna State Opera to the notes of Mozart and Strauss echoing through the streets. Wander through the elegant streets of the Innere Stadt, admiring the stunning architecture and charming coffee houses. Or indulge in Vienna’s culinary delights, savouring decadent pastries and traditional schnitzel.

Bratislava, Slovakia

Enjoy the many charms of the Slovakian capital city of Bratislava. You’ll love the views of the iconic Bratislava Castle, an architectural masterpiece perched atop a hill, and relish the city’s rich history. Stroll through the medieval Old Town, adorned with colourful facades and lively squares. Delight in the fusion of old and new as modern cafes mingle with historic landmarks, and indulge in the beer and dumplings combos that the city is famous for.

Budapest, Hungary

Explore the captivating beauty of Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant capital. Admire the stunning architecture of Buda Castle, perched majestically on the hill, offering panoramic views of the Danube River. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich thermal spa culture, perhaps luxuriating in the world-renowned Széchenyi Baths. Stroll along the iconic Chain Bridge, connecting Buda and Pest, and marvel at the Parliament building’s illuminated splendour at night. You can also delight in Hungarian cuisine at a traditional market or sip coffee in a historic café.

Melk, Austria

Why not visit the enchanting town of Melk, nestled along the banks of the Danube? Marvel at the architectural splendour of Melk Abbey, a majestic Benedictine monastery overlooking the town. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the abbey’s gardens, offering a peaceful retreat. Or you may just prefer to wander through the charming streets, adorned with historic buildings and vibrant flower displays. Top of Form

Linz, Austria

The vibrant city of Linz, nestled along the banks of the Danube, is a charming port of call. Discover the modern and cultural facets of Linz by visiting the Ars Electronica Centre, a futuristic hub showcasing the intersection of technology and art. Wander through the charming Old Town, where medieval architecture meets contemporary boutiques. You may also admire the impressive Lentos Art Museum, or take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank promenade. Top of Form

Passau, Germany

Journey to Passau, a picturesque town at the confluence of three rivers. Here you can wander up to the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a masterpiece blending various architectural styles. Take a walk through the charming cobblestone streets of the Old Town, lined with colourful buildings and quaint shops that are great for souvenirs. Or you can explore Veste Oberhaus, a fortress offering panoramic views. Top of Form

Weissenkirchen, Austria

Venture to Weissenkirchen, a charming village nestled in the heart of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Admire the iconic Parish Church, a jewel of Gothic architecture surrounded by vineyards. Or take your time learning more about the wines produced here –  local wineries let you enjoy tours, while tasting renowned Wachau wines – perfect for enjoying while overlooking the river.

Esztergom, Hungary

In this small rural town, the basilica that stands out – the largest church and tallest building in Hungary. The rest of the town has a laid-back charm, with winding streets filled with traditional eateries and tucked-away churches. Esztergom is the ideal place to explore on a quieter day, with plenty of quaint locations to discover around every corner.

Durnstein, Austria

Delight in the medieval charm of Durnstein Castle, perched on a hill, offering breathtaking views of the vineyard-draped Wachau Valley. You can stroll through cobblestone streets, lined with charming shops and wine taverns. Or why not yourself in the region’s winemaking heritage with a visit to local vineyards? Here you can capture the essence of Durnstein by enjoying regional wines while overlooking the tranquil river. Top of Form

Belgrade, Serbia

Embark on a journey to Belgrade, the vibrant capital of Serbia. Discover the city’s rich history at the imposing Belgrade Fortress, where ancient meets modern along the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers. Take a relaxing stroll through Kalemegdan Park, a green oasis offering panoramic views of the city. Or you might prefer to explore the shops and cafes dotted along the bustling streets of Knez Mihailova.

Bucharest, Romania

Step ashore to explore the vibrant energy of Bucharest, Romania’s dynamic capital. Uncover the grandeur of the Palace of the Parliament, a symbol of the city’s rich history, and take a wander through Herastrau Park, a serene haven that’s perfect for unhurried exploration. The Old Town (Lipscani) is home to some charming cafes along with historic buildings that reveal the history of Romanian culture, which you can delve further into at the Village Museum.

Vidin, Bulgaria

A lesser-known gem of the Lower Danube, Vidin is packed with delights. Peel back the layers of history at Baba Vida Fortress, an ancient sentinel overlooking the river’s embrace. Meander through Vidin’s labyrinth of cobblestone streets, where charming architecture tells tales of bygone eras. Or perhaps you’ll most enjoy admiring the intricacies of the Cross-shaped Barracks and the serenity of the Orthodox Cathedral.

Final Word

Is your favourite Danube port on this list, or have I missed it?

Perhaps you’ve never cruised on the Danube, and now you’re tempted? I wouldn’t blame you – which ports are you most excited by?

Remember these are just the best Danube ports and there are plenty of other options with TUI. Plus you get to enjoy the amazing all-inclusive service of your river cruise ship as you sail.

So, whether you’ve always wanted to cruise to these Danube destinations, or you’re just catching the bug now and are ready to start planning, it’s definitely worth considering a cruise with TUI to experience it all.

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