Dreaming of a European River Cruise

I am usually in Europe several times a year; one of my favorite cities for exploring is Vienna. I was there earlier this year – because it is a sizable city I found the best way to explore it (especially with limited time) is via bicycle. The city of Vienna maintains bicycles in public stations scattered throughout the city – it is easy to rent a bike and then drop it off in another location as needed. Vienna in fact was recently voted the World’s Most Reputable City as listed on the river cruising website, Emerald Waterways.

With the Danube River running right through the city – splitting the old city from the new – Vienna is an ideal location for both exploring along this river’s banks and or starting a river cruise. I have yet to go on a river cruise but when I do, it will most definitely be in Europe and will be on the Danube. I’ve been able to explore parts of this river during my trips to Europe. This summer in fact, I was in Bratislava and rather than staying in town we opted to stay in a Botel – a floating hotel directly on the banks of the Danube.

When I eventually enjoy a European River cruise it will be on the Danube for a variety of reasons. This river is large enough yet small enough to be the perfect size for a small cruise ship. This river winds through the “heart” of Europe – past some incredible scenery and through a number of countries all with their own unique history and culture. I would start in Vienna with stops in the three “B’s, Budapest, Bratislava and Belgrade – slowly heading towards Eastern Europe.