From Nuremburg to Budapest - November 2013

I recently returned from a Scenic Tours river cruise along the Danube aboard the Scenic Jewel, sailing from Nuremberg (Germany) to Budapest. Along the way, we stopped at several points in Germany and Austria.

Our first stop was Regensburg, one of Germany’s oldest towns and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is a beautiful city, with many buildings dating back to the Middle Ages, having survived much damage during World War II. 

The next morning we docked in Passau, is located near the Austrian border and close enough for us the visit enchanting Salzburg, the Austrian city of music. You may recall that this city is also the setting for “The Sound of Music.” We actually stood next to the gazebo and sang “Sixteen Going on Seventeen”. We did not sound very good. Other guests aboard the ship visited the charming town of Cesky Krumlov, in the bohemian region of Czech Republic.

Next, we stopped in Melk, a charming little town located in the picturesque Wachau Valley. From here we got on our bikes (there was about 20 of us) and traveled about 20 miles through the valley and along the Danube, from Melk to Durnstein, riding along the lush, green countryside and passing through one small village after another, stopping along the way to snap photos, visit churches or buy fruit from roadside stalls. The bikes were power assisted, so when you needed a boost, all you had to do was put the power on and pretend you are in great shape. My legs truly appreciated this feature. By the way, the Wachau Valley is a favorite weekend getaway destination for residents in Vienna and now wonder, the scenery is absolutely breathtaking out here. On my next visit to Austria, I will be sure to include a few days of relaxation in this part of Southern Austria.