Budapest To Vilshofen

Commanding both sides of the Danube – with the Chain Bridge connecting hilly Buda with flat Pest – Hungary’s capital enchants with its magnificent architecture of domes and spires, 18th-century homes, bridges and lampposts. The UNESCO-listed Castle Hill welcomes all to explore Buda Castle, Trinity Square, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.

Commanding both sides of the Danube – with the Chain Bridge connecting hilly Buda with flat Pest – Hungary’s capital enchants with its magnificent architecture of domes and spires, 18th-century homes, bridges and lampposts. The UNESCO-listed Castle Hill welcomes all to explore Buda Castle, Trinity Square, Matthias Church and Fisherman’s Bastion.

Once the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and forever known for its manicured gardens, ornate architecture – especially that of the famed Ringstrasse – and distinguished roster of composers who either were born or lived here, Vienna finds itself at the very center of European culture, even as it sits near the border of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary.

Once the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and forever known for its manicured gardens, ornate architecture – especially that of the famed Ringstrasse – and distinguished roster of composers who either were born or lived here, Vienna finds itself at the very center of European culture, even as it sits near the border of the Czech Republic, Slovakia and Hungary.

Considered one of the most visited tourist spots in the Wachau Valley, Durnstein is in a robust wine-growing region sitting alongside the Danube river. Durnstein Castle, the region’s famous architectural highlight, sits atop a rocky mountain, high above the Danube, at its base. Durnstein’s beauty is enhanced by verdant forests, rolling hills, and thriving vineyards that surround the town. Sip some of the region’s local wines and enjoy a leisurely day in this postcard-worthy European town.

Relish the fairy-tale charms of three countries along the Danube — Hungary, Austria and Germany. Enjoy overnights in Budapest and Vienna, then explore the wonders of scenic towns, from the famed Melk Abbey to St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Passau.

Best known for its fortified baroque Benedictine monastery, Melk Abbey, the town of Melk boasts an assortment of smaller gems. Among them, the city’s riverside location, serene and regal with a ribbon of wooded groves giving way to the lovely village. Cobbled lanes and a petite size make for a pleasant stroll with a chance to discover its 16th-century Town Hall, or Rathaus, in the center of town, and Haus am Stein, or House at the Rock. Built in the 15th century, the vine-covered abode is Melk’s oldest building.

Named the European Capital of Culture in 2009 and added to the roster of UNESCO Creative Cities as a City of Media Arts in 2014, Linz embraces the present and future, with reverence to its past. The city’s layout reflects its history, with an ancient medieval center encircled by neoclassical, neo-baroque and neo-Renaissance neighborhoods.

At the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is also situated at a meeting of cultures. The town began as a Roman settlement, enjoying the rising tide of influence as the largest bishopric in the Holy Roman Empire and enduringly vibrant as a hub for various trade pursuits, including salt, swords and ideas. Wander the cobbled streets of Old Town, gaze upon arched bridges and Italianate manses and visit magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral and New Bishop’s Residence.

Askyline graced by the spire of a historic church and the arch of a more modern bridge reveals the essence of Vilshofen’s appeal. Here where three rivers meet – the Vils, Wolfach and Danube – you’ll enjoy cycling expeditions on pretty paths and hikes in the neighboring Bavarian forest.