The Danube is the second longest river in Europe
after the Volga, flowing for 1,771 miles (2,857km) through nine
different countries. Before reaching Budapest, it is forced through
a narrow twisting valley in the pretty Carpathian Basin, known as
the Danube Bend, eight miles (13km) from Budapest.
The cluster of towns on this bend offers an amazing
collection of history, culture, and architecture, particularly the
small Baroque towns of Szentendre, Visegrad, and Esztergom. The
Danube River has been a main artery for trade and transport through
Europe for centuries and is one of the reasons Hungary has always
been such a sought after territory. Numerous invaders have left
their mark on the riverside settlements, from the Romans to the
Soviets.
The Danube Bend is an extremely scenic area with
green valleys and hills rising up from the river, picturesque
little towns with market squares, and commanding fortresses with
sweeping views. Many visitors choose to do a boat cruise on the
Danube from Budapest, stopping at the little towns along the
way.
Because of its close proximity to the capital, many
people on holiday in Hungary choose to use Budapest as their base
and take day trips to the Danube Bend. Combined with good
facilities and easy accessibility, it is one of the more popular
destinations in Hungary.