Page 45 - Demo

45Cruising the Lower DanubeFrom Budapest to the river%u2019s delta at the Black Sea, the Lower Danube takes you into Eastern Europe, revealing treasures that were hidden behind the Iron Curtain until the region opened to tourism after the Cold War. This area is rich in Balkan and Ottoman history, with a unique blend of culture and traditions. It is less developed than the Upper Danube and is the perfect destination for adventurers and history enthusiasts, showcasing lesser-known yet remarkable parts of Eastern Europe.Cruising the Upper DanubeThis section of the Danube flows from its source in Germany to the Hungarian capital, Budapest, and features elegant cities, UNESCO-listed landscapes and historic landmarks. It includes the beautiful Wachau Valley in Austria, and the scenic Danube Bend between Esztergom and Budapest. This region is ideal for those seeking a blend of history, culture and natural beauty in a relatively compact area.A trio of culturally-rich citiesA river cruise along the Danube would not be complete without visiting at least one of its great cities. Austria%u2019s elegant capital, Vienna, is synonymous with the waltz and the works of Mozart, and complementing its musical heritage is its Imperial architecture. While the historic city Budapest, with its grand Parliament Building and Buda Castle, is a fascinating place to explore.