Wachau Valley Wonderland & Grand Danube Capitals

The pretty Bavarian town of Passau, situated close to Germany's border with Austria, enjoys a unique setting at the confluence of three rivers: the Inn, the Ilz and the Danube. Passau grew rich on the back of the medieval salt trade, and went on to become the most important bishopric in the Holy Roman Empire; the narrow cobbled streets of the handsome old town, the Altstadt, haven't changed all that much in the centuries since.

Despite its small size, Grein is rich in history, culture, and scenic beauty, set on a bend of the Danube. This intimate postcard-pretty city is wonderfully easy to explore on foot with its pastel-colored buildings that frame the main square, cosy cafés and a hilltop castle, the perfect setting for strolls or bike rides along the river.

Krems sits on the river Danube at the eastern end of the beautiful Wachau Valley, surrounded by vineyards. It’s an attractive old town, with pretty cobbled streets and a good selection of galleries and museums, as well as some excellent restaurants.

Formerly the centre of the Habsburg Empire, Vienna is as grand a European capital as you can imagine, jam packed full of thrusting, bombastic buildings that stand as a reminder of Austria’s glorious imperial heyday.

Esztergom was the birthplace of St Stephen, the first king of Hungary, who was crowned here in 1000 AD and converted the kingdom to Catholicism. The picturesque town is dominated by the magnificent Basilica, which towers high above the Danube.

Budapest is one of Eastern Europe’s most appealing cities, a vibrant and welcoming capital that straddles the Danube. The history of Budapest has been somewhat turbulent, but plenty of beautiful buildings survive, including the imposing Parliament and iconic St Stephen’s Basilica.