Famous Ports of Call Cruises To Bucharest from Vienna in 2025

Cruising from Vienna to Bucharest is a journey through the heart of Eastern Europe, history, and culture. As you cruise down the Danube River, each port of call reveals something different about the region’s history, architecture, and scenery. From capitals to smaller towns, these stops will give you a deeper insight into the cultures and traditions of Central and Southeastern Europe. Here are some of the common ports of call on this journey, each with its character and attractions.

Budapest 

Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is a must-see on any Danube cruise. Divided by the river into Buda and Pest, the city is famous for its architecture, the Parliament Building, Buda Castle, and Fisherman’s Bastion. Visitors often visit the thermal baths, Széchenyi or Gellért, and take a stroll along Andrássy Avenue, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The city’s history, from Roman times to the Austro-Hungarian Empire, is visible in its many museums and historical sites, so Budapest is a must-stop.

Belgrade

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is a city with a complicated history and a modern buzz. Situated at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, it’s a mix of old and new, from the historic Belgrade Fortress above the city to the bohemian streets of Skadarlija. The Kalemegdan Park offers great views, and the city’s museums, like the Nikola Tesla Museum, will give you an insight into its cultural and scientific heritage. Belgrade’s nightlife & café culture make it a fun stop for any traveler.

Vidin

Vidin, a small town in northwestern Bulgaria, is a piece of the country’s history. Famous for the medieval Baba Vida fortress, which has stood as a witness to the town’s importance throughout the ages. Vidin is a charming and off-the-beaten-track gem. The fortress is situated on the Danube River and is one of the best preserved in Bulgaria. It offers great views of the river. Visitors can also visit the churches and St. Dimitar, take a stroll along the river promenade, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this river town.

Rousse

Rousse is often called “Little Vienna” due to its beautiful 19th-century architecture. It’s a big Bulgarian city on the Danube. The city is famous for its neoclassical and baroque buildings, which reflect its past as a rich trading centre. Must-sees: Rousse Regional Historical Museum and Pantheon of National Revival Heroes. The central Freedom Square is a nice spot, surrounded by nice buildings and cafes. Rousse is the entrance to Bulgarian culture and history, with both urban and natural attractions along the Danube.

Giurgiu

Giurgiu is a port city in southern Romania and often an entrance point for those going to Bucharest or the nearby town of Rousse in Bulgaria. The city itself is small but has some interesting sights: Giurgiu Fortress from the 14th century and the impressive Friendship Bridge that connects Romania with Bulgaria. The city is an important point for river traffic, and being close to Bucharest makes it a good stop for those who want to visit Romania’s capital or the surrounding area.

Mohács

Mohács is a small Hungarian town famous for the Battle of Mohács in 1526, a crucial moment in European history when the Ottomans took over Hungary. Today, it’s famous for the Busójárás carnival, a UNESCO-protected tradition where locals wear masks and costumes to chase away winter. Mohács has a nice atmosphere with its riverside location, local museums, and monuments of the battle. It’s a cultural Stop to get a glimpse into Hungary’s history and traditions.

Vukovar

Vukovar is a city in eastern Croatia that symbolizes resilience and rebirth. Heavily damaged during the Croatian War of Independence in the early 90s, Vukovar was rebuilt, and now it is a reminder of the war. The Memorial Cemetery and the Vukovar Water Tower are the most important sites where one can see the impact of the war. Vukovar is also famous for its baroque architecture and the nearby Vučedol archaeological site, where you can see the prehistoric European civilizations. Vukovar is a historical journey and proof of the city’s spirit.

Brașov

Brașov is in the Carpathian Mountains of central Romania and is often an extension of the Danube cruise for those who want to visit Transylvania. Famous for its medieval atmosphere, Brașov is a beautiful old town with an impressive Black Church, one of the biggest Gothic churches in Eastern Europe. The city’s streets, surrounded by mountains, are perfect for a leisurely walk. Nearby is the Bran Castle, famous for the Dracula legend. Brașov has history, culture, and nature, so it’s a must-see on any Romanian itinerary. 

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