Danube Winter Wonderland 2024
Spanning ten European countries, the Danube weaves together the diverse cultures and traditions of over 100 million people. As the festive season fills the air with joy and everything turns red, green, and sparkling bright, join us on a magical journey along this magnificent river. Welcome to the Danube Winter Wonderland!
City panorama of Ulm in winter / copyright: AdobeStock/Daniel
Germany
Magical Advent decorations adorn windows, shops and market squares. Fairy lights illuminate front gardens and streets. The scent of baked apples and gingerbread fills the air, while cheerful Christmas melodies ring out. The pre-Christmas period enchants all the senses, bathes the world in splendour and invites you to enjoy the beauty and traditions of the season.
© Tourismusverband Donau Oberoesterreich – CMVisuals
Austria
Celebrate the Winter in Austria’s Danube Wonderland! Discover festive markets, twinkling lights, and the warm hospitality of charming towns. From traditional crafts to delicious treats, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit. Join us for an unforgettable Christmas celebration along the picturesque Danube River in Austria.
Hungary
Discover the magic of Christmas in Hungary, where traditions come alive! In Pécs, the Advent season becomes a festive wonderland. Enjoy the National Advent Building Painting Competition, where children’s light paintings illuminate historic buildings, celebrating creativity, unity, and multicultural values in a heartwarming tradition.
Osijek in winter – by Mario Đurkić Horizont Solutions
Croatia
In winter, with a chance of snow, Croatian Danube Region transforms into a true wonderland. Visit the “Advent” festivals in Vukovar and Osijek, warm up with some mulled wine in the medieval city of Ilok, take a romantic walk by the icy canals of Kopački Rit Nature Park, visit historical wine cellars in Baranja, and spend the night on a traditional farm stay, not with hosts but your new friends.
Romania
Modern traditions meet ancient customs to celebrate winter holidays from late November to January 7. Glittering Christmas markets brighten long nights all over the country. Winter in Romania promises unforgettable and delightful moments whether in cities, countryside, resorts or nature.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria, rich in culture and customs, is a top winter destination. Visitors can explore diverse traditions and enjoy excellent mountain tourism, including skiing and snowboarding. The 2024 winter season kicks off in Bansko on December 6 with a special event and Christmas lights on Nikola Vaptsarov Square.
Ukraine
Colorful Odesa loves holidays and festivities. No wonder, since Christmas and New Year are a special occasion. Winter holidays in Odesa are an unforgettable adventure that is not like standard tourist entertainment. You can feel like a part of the city, immerse yourself in its harsh winter beauty and enjoy rare deserted moments alone with the colorful streets of Odesa.