Along the Danube, Slovakia reveals its most beautiful side, diverse, charming and full of contrasts. Nestled between the forested hills of the Little Carpathians and the wide Danube plains lies Bratislava, Europe’s smallest capital, rich in history, baroque elegance and a youthful, creative spirit. Cycling along the riverbanks or viewing the city from the sun deck, you’ll see how history and modern life blend seamlessly: grand palaces and medieval streets meet creative districts, cosy cafés and a lively cultural scene.

High above the city rises Bratislava Castle (Bratislavský hrad), once the residence of Hungarian kings and today one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. From here, the view stretches across the Danube into Austria and Hungary, a powerful symbol of Bratislava’s role as a cultural bridge in Central Europe. In the winding lanes of the old town, elegant townhouses, St. Michael’s Gate and St. Martin’s Cathedral tell stories of centuries past, when Bratislava – then known as Pressburg – served as the coronation city of many Habsburg kings.

During your cycling and cruise holiday, your floating hotel glides through the heart of Europe. From the river, enjoy striking views of Bratislava Castle, the distinctive SNP Bridge and the expansive landscapes along the Danube. On land, the cobbled streets of the old town invite you to linger, accompanied by street music and local specialities such as bryndzové halušky or honey wine.

Slovakia is a place to arrive, pause and simply enjoy the moment – perfectly positioned between Vienna and Budapest and an essential highlight of any Danube journey.

Between Vineyards, Capital Cities and Waltz Melodies

For those who prefer to discover Europe at a relaxed pace, our classic Danube river cruises are the perfect choice. Instead of cycling each day, enjoy the river in all its diversity from the sun deck, sometimes tranquil and nature-focused, sometimes elegant and steeped in history. Between Passau and Budapest, you travel through four countries and experience three capital cities on a single journey: Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest.

Here, the Danube is both stage and connection: gentle floodplains and vineyards in the Wachau, baroque abbeys and castles in Austria, the vibrant old town of Bratislava and, finally, the magnificent architecture of Budapest, glowing especially beautifully in the evening light. In between, there is plenty of time to relax and indulge, whether at a wine tasting, in a traditional Viennese coffeehouse or during a horse show in the Hungarian Puszta.

Landscape, culture and comfort blend seamlessly on these journeys, creating a distinctive travel experience. The Danube reveals all its facets here – as a cultural river, a lifeline of Europe and a symbol of shared European history.