Giurgiu River Cruises

From the moment you board your vessel in Giurgiu, you're swept into a tapestry of old-world romance and contemporary comfort. The serene glide along the Danube reveals a different side of Romania—one marked by sleepy fishing villages, Orthodox monasteries, and stories carved into every riverbank. Whether you're sipping regional wine as the sun sets over the water or exploring the cobbled lanes of a medieval citadel, the river's rhythm draws you into a slower, more meaningful journey.

Giurgiu's proximity to major historical and natural attractions enhances its status as a premium cruise destination. With easy access to Bucharest, the Black Sea, and UNESCO-listed heritage sites, a cruise from Giurgiu isn't just a vacation—it’s an invitation to rediscover Europe through the lifeblood of its rivers.

Cruising the Danube from Giurgiu

The Danube: A Legendary Waterway

The Danube is Europe's second-longest river and a cultural artery that links ten countries. From Giurgiu, the river becomes a stage for epic narratives: Roman conquests, Ottoman battles, and modern European unity. As your cruise ventures along the Danube, each bend reveals a new chapter of architecture, cuisine, and folklore.

Bucharest

Just an hour north of Giurgiu lies Bucharest, Romania’s eclectic capital. Here, guests enjoy guided excursions through the city’s contrasting landscapes: Belle Époque villas, Brutalist towers, and the massive Palace of Parliament. Cruises often begin or end with a day in Bucharest, offering a vibrant urban contrast to the calm river journey.

Cernavodă

As you head toward the Black Sea, the town of Cernavodă welcomes you with its famed vineyards and engineering marvels. It’s home to the Cernavodă Bridge, one of Europe’s longest railway bridges, and a hub for wine tastings that pair perfectly with scenic views of the Danube’s lower plains.

Chiciu

Chiciu is a tranquil village that offers insight into traditional Romanian life. Expect serene landscapes, rustic farms, and tranquil riverbanks, perfect for photography and birdwatching. It’s a peaceful pause in your cruise, and one that captures the country’s pastoral charm.

Constanta

At the end of the Danube-Black Sea Canal lies Constanța—a historic port city on the Black Sea coast. Known for its Roman mosaics, Art Nouveau architecture, and seaside promenade, Constanța offers a dramatic and colorful finish to many long-haul cruises.

Drobeta-Turnu Severin

Further upstream, Drobeta-Turnu Severin is where ancient Rome left its mark with the remains of Trajan’s Bridge and Roman castrum ruins. The Iron Gates gorge begins nearby, offering one of the Danube’s most striking scenic stretches.

Brașov

While not directly on the river, Brașov is a popular excursion thanks to its medieval Saxon walls and the Black Church. River cruises from Giurgiu often include land tours to Brașov as part of pre- or post-cruise itineraries.

Fetesti

Fetesti is a Danube port close to the Borcea branch, rich with birdlife and traditional villages. Cruises stopping here allow guests to explore untouched nature, with guided boat tours through quiet inlets and delta wetlands.

Hârşova

Hârşova is known for its Roman-era fortifications and panoramic riverside vistas. Visit local archaeological museums or take a walk along the historic ruins. It’s a hidden gem for history buffs and photographers alike.

Sibiu

Another off-river highlight, Sibiu, is a cultural capital located in Transylvania. While it is reached by overland excursions, it offers a rich Germanic heritage, charming old town squares, and is often part of thematic Danube cruise extensions.

Tulcea

The last major city before the Danube reaches the Black Sea, Tulcea, is your gateway to the UNESCO-listed Danube Delta. Explore this lush labyrinth of waterways teeming with over 300 bird species, traditional reed-roof villages, and remote natural wonders.

Themed and Length-Based River Cruise Itineraries

Short Cruises (3–5 days)

Perfect for travelers with limited time, these cruises often start or end in Giurgiu and include quick stops in Bucharest, Chiciu, and Cernavodă. Highlights include guided city tours, sunset sailing, and traditional folk dinners onboard.

Medium Cruises (6–9 days)

These cruises often span from Giurgiu to Constanța or up toward Hungary, with stops at Brașov and Drobeta-Turnu Severin. Enjoy cultural excursions, wine tastings in Fetesti, and storytelling evenings with local historians onboard.

Long Cruises (10+ days)

Ideal for more profound discovery, these itineraries cover the full length of the Lower Danube or extend into Central Europe. Travel from Giurgiu to Vienna, Budapest, or Passau, discovering castles, cathedrals, and cuisines across multiple countries.

Special Interest Cruises

• Wine Cruises: Visit Romanian and Bulgarian vineyards near Giurgiu and Cernavodă, enjoying onboard wine pairings and sommelier-led tastings.
• History Cruises: Dive into the Roman Empire’s legacy in Drobeta, Hârşova, and Tulcea with expert lectures and museum visits.
• Christmas Markets: Seasonal cruises through December showcase festive towns like Sibiu and Brașov, ending in Bucharest with local crafts and mulled wine.
• Culinary Tours: Join onboard cooking classes featuring Romanian sarmale and cozonac, with market visits in Giurgiu and Constanța.

Life Onboard: Comfort, Culture, and Connection

Ships and Ambiance

Giurgiu river cruises cater to a range of preferences—from boutique ships carrying 50 guests to larger vessels with full entertainment decks. All offer an intimate and scenic journey, with panoramic lounges, spacious sun decks, and curated itineraries.

Cuisine and Wine

Meals blend international menus with authentic Romanian dishes. Savor grilled carp, polenta, and plum brandy as you cruise past vineyards and riverside villages. Vegetarian and gourmet options ensure every palate is indulged.

Excursions and Enrichment

Daily shore excursions are included and led by expert guides. Visit castles, monasteries, and delta reserves. Onboard, expect folk music performances, history talks, and local craft demonstrations that bring the Danube’s stories to life.

Something for Everyone

• Couples: Enjoy romantic dinners on deck and sunset views from your private balcony.
• Families: Choose cruises with multi-generational activities and flexible shore tours.
• Solo Travelers: Small-group settings and cultural programming foster connections.
• Luxury Seekers: Opt for five-star cruises with spa services, fine dining, and butler service.

Let the Danube Be Your Guide

In Giurgiu, the Danube is more than a river—it’s a living narrative. From its quiet morning mists to golden hour reflections, every moment spent on its waters is a reminder that travel is not just about movement, but about meaning. Embark on a journey where each ripple carries history, and every port invites wonder.