Danube Metropolises

Vienna

It's difficult to explore the sights and
sounds of Vienna without thinking of an elegant Strauss waltz or a
memorable Brahms lullaby. This beautiful Baroque capital of Austria
was for centuries the centre of the Habsburg Empire, retaining its
grand spirit in the form of magnificent palaces and grand mansions
peppering the Innere Stadt.

The city's cultural heritage is mainly
musical, with great composers such as Strauss, Brahms, Beethoven,
Schubert, Haydn and Mozart all having lived and performed here.
Today, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the State Opera House
help to keep alive the city's traditions by offering more classical
music performances a year than any other city in the world.

While Vienna is a city of music, it's also
synonymous with gourmet fare, cream cakes, superb coffee, the
angelic strains of the Vienna Boys' Choir, and the proud prancing
of the Lipizzaner stallions at the world-famous Spanish Riding
School.

Starting out as a Celtic settlement on the
banks of the Danube, Vienna became one of Rome's most important
central European bases. Its favourable location on the strategic
river contributed to the city becoming the stronghold of a mighty
empire, reaching its peak during the tumultuous reign of the
dazzling Habsburg dynasty.

At the end of the 19th century, the golden
age of the Austrian Empire began to decline as Vienna's coffee
houses filled with radical intellectuals such as Freud, Klimt and
Mahler. The World War II Nazi occupation left scars, but Vienna
survived to remain a captivating capital that blends Italian
romanticism with Germanic orderliness.

Most of the city's tourist attractions are
within the largely pedestrianised inner city area, which was once
enclosed by the city walls. The walls have been replaced with the
Ringstrasse, a wide ring road. Further out in the suburbs is the
thrilling Prater amusement park with its massive Ferris wheel, and
the opulent Schonbrunn summer palace. Visitors also should not miss
a trip to the Vienna Woods, peppered with wine taverns called
heurigen.

Vienna is truly a paradise for classical
music aficionados, with unrivalled history, influence and majesty.
But it's also a city of sophistication and class, a romantic
outpost of old world grandeur shining through the heritage of
imperial power.

Budapest

Known as the 'Queen of the Danube', magnificent
Budapest exudes a cultural sophistication that entices and
enchants. It graces both sides of the river with grand historic
buildings, regal bridges, and graceful tree-lined boulevards. The
city's elegant beauty and romantic atmosphere has given it Parisian
status among the Eastern European countries.

Budapest offers the visitor the familiarity of
European grandeur with a distinct Hungarian flavour. This is
evident in the neo-Gothic Parliament buildings, sidewalk cafes, and
Magyar cuisine; classical concerts and Hungarian folk music; and
the cobbled streets of medieval neighbourhoods and shady parks.
Highlights for visitors include a river cruise on the Danube and a
thermal bath in one of the Turkish-era bathhouses.

Budapest was originally two cities built on either
side of the Danube, namely Buda and Pest. The two districts are
still distinct in their contrasting makeup. The older and more
charming Buda comprised of atmospheric cobbled streets, little
picturesque coloured houses, and a medieval, neo-Classical mixture
of architecture set among the gentle hills of the west bank. It is
famous for its historic Castle Hill, featuring the Royal Palace;
museums and galleries; St Matthias Church; and the ramparts of
Fisherman's Bastion.

Pest lies on a flat plain and is the commercial core
of the city. It bustles with fashionable shopping areas and has
characteristically wide, leafy boulevards. Andrássy Boulevard is
the Champs-Elysées of Budapest, lined with a typical mosaic of
architectural styles and buildings with the enormous Heroes' Square
at the end.

A history of numerous wars and invasions, with
repeated destruction and rebuilding, has created the Budapest of
today, with an amalgamation of styles, created over time during
periods of loving restoration by a proud and resilient nation of
people; it is a city of charm and character and never drops out of
favour with travellers.

Vác

Budapest

Known as the 'Queen of the Danube', magnificent
Budapest exudes a cultural sophistication that entices and
enchants. It graces both sides of the river with grand historic
buildings, regal bridges, and graceful tree-lined boulevards. The
city's elegant beauty and romantic atmosphere has given it Parisian
status among the Eastern European countries.

Budapest offers the visitor the familiarity of
European grandeur with a distinct Hungarian flavour. This is
evident in the neo-Gothic Parliament buildings, sidewalk cafes, and
Magyar cuisine; classical concerts and Hungarian folk music; and
the cobbled streets of medieval neighbourhoods and shady parks.
Highlights for visitors include a river cruise on the Danube and a
thermal bath in one of the Turkish-era bathhouses.

Budapest was originally two cities built on either
side of the Danube, namely Buda and Pest. The two districts are
still distinct in their contrasting makeup. The older and more
charming Buda comprised of atmospheric cobbled streets, little
picturesque coloured houses, and a medieval, neo-Classical mixture
of architecture set among the gentle hills of the west bank. It is
famous for its historic Castle Hill, featuring the Royal Palace;
museums and galleries; St Matthias Church; and the ramparts of
Fisherman's Bastion.

Pest lies on a flat plain and is the commercial core
of the city. It bustles with fashionable shopping areas and has
characteristically wide, leafy boulevards. Andrássy Boulevard is
the Champs-Elysées of Budapest, lined with a typical mosaic of
architectural styles and buildings with the enormous Heroes' Square
at the end.

A history of numerous wars and invasions, with
repeated destruction and rebuilding, has created the Budapest of
today, with an amalgamation of styles, created over time during
periods of loving restoration by a proud and resilient nation of
people; it is a city of charm and character and never drops out of
favour with travellers.

Bratislava

Bratislava is Slovakia's compact capital
and a must for art lovers. Straddling the Danube River and within
easy reach of Austria, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, the city is
ideally located. Its multitude of museums, art galleries, palaces
and ornamental churches (all found in and around its historic Old
Town) make it the centre for arts and culture in the country, and a
worthy destination for culture vultures.

Bratislava rightly takes pride in this
cultural heritage, with a musical history that stretches back to
Mozart, Beethoven and Hummel. Music concerts and ballet
performances take place almost daily in the city, and rival those
in neighbouring Vienna, Prague and Budapest.

The Old Town district is crammed with
historical structures representing the different cultures and
nations of its past, centring on the famous town square called
Hlavné Námestie. The historic Old Town can easily be explored on
foot.

The 11th-century Gothic Cathedral of St
Martin is found within the Old Town, together with numerous Baroque
palaces. The Old Town also contains the town hall, which houses the
oldest museum in the country, as well as a gate preserved from the
medieval city fortifications. One of the most conspicuous
structures in the city is Bratislava Castle, a former frontier post
for the Roman Empire situated on a plateau overlooking the
Danube.

While still lagging behind Budapest and
Prague in terms of popularity, word of Bratislava's picturesque
charm and affordable elegance is spreading and the city is rapidly
being thrust into the limelight as a popular European destination.
An increase in low-cost flights from around Europe is also partly
responsible for its rising recognition.

Dürnstein

Dürnstein is a picturesque village located in the romantic Wachau Valley of Austria. Situated on the banks of the Danube River, this charming destination is known for its stunning natural beauty, rich history, and exquisite wines. Whether you're interested in exploring medieval castles, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking in the tranquility of the countryside, Dürnstein has something to offer every traveler.

One of the most iconic features of Dürnstein is its medieval castle, which sits atop a rocky hill overlooking the village. The ruins of the castle, where England's King Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, make for a fascinating visit. Visitors can embark on a scenic hike up to the castle, while enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards, orchards, and the Danube River below.

Wine lovers will delight in Dürnstein's reputation as a renowned wine region. The terraced vineyards that cover the hillsides of the Wachau Valley produce some of Austria's finest wines, particularly the celebrated Grüner Veltliner and Riesling varieties. Many wineries in the area offer wine tastings and tours, allowing visitors to sample the local vintages and learn about the traditional winemaking methods that have been passed down through generations.

For those interested in history and culture, the village itself offers plenty of opportunities for exploration. Dürnstein's cobblestone streets are lined with beautifully preserved historic buildings, including charming churches and medieval houses. The blue and white baroque tower of the Stiftskirche is a striking landmark that can be seen from afar, while the Kuenringer Castle ruins showcase the region's rich past.

Food enthusiasts will also find themselves in paradise in Dürnstein. The village is home to several traditional Austrian restaurants that serve up delectable local dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to try the Wachauer Marillenknödel, a sweet dumpling filled with apricots, a fruit that is grown abundantly in the region. Pair your meal with a local wine, and you'll undoubtedly have a culinary experience to remember.

Nature lovers will appreciate the beautiful landscapes surrounding Dürnstein. The Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's not hard to see why. Lush green hills, vineyards, and the winding Danube River create a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and river cruises. The Danube Bike Path, which stretches along the river, offers a fantastic opportunity to explore the region on two wheels.

In terms of practicalities, Dürnstein is easily accessible by road or by boat. The nearest major airport is Vienna International Airport, which is approximately an hour's drive away. Once in the village, everything is within walking distance, making it an ideal destination for a leisurely stroll or a relaxing break.

Overall, Dürnstein is a destination that appeals to a wide range of travelers. Its natural beauty, rich history, and delicious wines make it a picture-perfect getaway. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Dürnstein has it all. So why not treat yourself to a trip to this enchanting corner of Austria?

Melk

Melk is a beautiful city nestled in the Austrian Alps. It is known for its traditional Austrian charm and breathtaking mountain landscapes.

The city of Melk is a picturesque destination with many attractions. It is home to one of Europe’s largest and most impressive monasteries, the Melk Abbey. Built in the 11th century, this stunning Benedictine monastery has a grand baroque interior and offers guided tours throughout the day. Visitors can explore the abbey's numerous chapels, its library, and the magnificent marble hall.

Another popular destination in Melk is the Schlosspark, a magnificent castle garden dating back to the 17th century. Meandering pathways lead to the top of a hill where visitors can overlook the town below and admire the stunning view of the Danube River. An old summer palace, sculptures, and a grotto can also be found in the park.

Apart from sightseeing, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in this alpine getaway. Hiking is a popular pastime for visitors as the city provides many trails with spectacular scenery to explore. Additionally, biking is a fun way to explore the city’s charming streets and beautiful countryside. Melk also offers swimming in its lido on the banks of the Danube, located just outside the old city walls.

For a cultural experience, visitors should head to Melk’s Museum Burgmuseum. Located in a castle right above the Danube, this museum showcases artifacts from the city's past including artifacts from the local population as well as Roman findings from nearby ruins. There’s also an authentic alpine kitchen where visitors can enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine such as ‘Kaiserschmarrn’ (soufflé-like pancakes) and ‘Apfelstrudel’ (apple strudel).

Visiting Melk is an experience like no other with its unique atmosphere and traditional charm. Whether you’re looking for stunning views, cultural attractions, or outdoor activities, this alpine getaway has something for everyone. Be sure to soak up the unbelievable beauty of nature while exploring this spectacular corner of Austria.

Linz

Linz is the third-largest city of Austria and capital of the state of Upper Austria (German: Oberösterreich). It is located in the north centre of Austria, approximately 30 kilometres south of the Czech border, on both sides of the River Danube. The population of the city is 200,839, and that of the Greater Linz conurbation is about 271,000. In 2009 Linz, together with the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, was chosen as the European Capital of Culture. Since 1 December 2014 Linz is a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities (UCCN) network as a City of Media Arts.

Linz is well known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts a large number of events throughout the year, including the Linz Festival, Ars Electronica and Pflasterspektakel. The city also has a number of museums and galleries, including the Museum of Upper Austria, Linz Museum and Lentos Art Museum.

If you're looking for a city that has a little bit of everything, then Linz is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're interested in culture, history, art or just wanting to experience a new place, Linz has something for everyone.

Vienna

It's difficult to explore the sights and
sounds of Vienna without thinking of an elegant Strauss waltz or a
memorable Brahms lullaby. This beautiful Baroque capital of Austria
was for centuries the centre of the Habsburg Empire, retaining its
grand spirit in the form of magnificent palaces and grand mansions
peppering the Innere Stadt.

The city's cultural heritage is mainly
musical, with great composers such as Strauss, Brahms, Beethoven,
Schubert, Haydn and Mozart all having lived and performed here.
Today, the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra and the State Opera House
help to keep alive the city's traditions by offering more classical
music performances a year than any other city in the world.

While Vienna is a city of music, it's also
synonymous with gourmet fare, cream cakes, superb coffee, the
angelic strains of the Vienna Boys' Choir, and the proud prancing
of the Lipizzaner stallions at the world-famous Spanish Riding
School.

Starting out as a Celtic settlement on the
banks of the Danube, Vienna became one of Rome's most important
central European bases. Its favourable location on the strategic
river contributed to the city becoming the stronghold of a mighty
empire, reaching its peak during the tumultuous reign of the
dazzling Habsburg dynasty.

At the end of the 19th century, the golden
age of the Austrian Empire began to decline as Vienna's coffee
houses filled with radical intellectuals such as Freud, Klimt and
Mahler. The World War II Nazi occupation left scars, but Vienna
survived to remain a captivating capital that blends Italian
romanticism with Germanic orderliness.

Most of the city's tourist attractions are
within the largely pedestrianised inner city area, which was once
enclosed by the city walls. The walls have been replaced with the
Ringstrasse, a wide ring road. Further out in the suburbs is the
thrilling Prater amusement park with its massive Ferris wheel, and
the opulent Schonbrunn summer palace. Visitors also should not miss
a trip to the Vienna Woods, peppered with wine taverns called
heurigen.

Vienna is truly a paradise for classical
music aficionados, with unrivalled history, influence and majesty.
But it's also a city of sophistication and class, a romantic
outpost of old world grandeur shining through the heritage of
imperial power.