Tease Your Tastebuds On the Danube River With These 10 Dishes

Cambozola from Passau, Germany.

How often have you been asked about a favorite destination, and the first thing that comes to mind is an incredible meal you had?

Food is a central theme of River Cruise holidays, and there is no shortage of iconic culinary specialties up and down the Danube. So bring your appetite, never say no to dessert, and don’t leave the Danube without trying these fantastic foods.

#01

Zemiakové Placky - Bratislava, Slovakia

If there were one vegetable that encapsulated the city of Bratislava, it would be potatoes. If you spend time in the Slovakian capital, try zemiakové placky, potato pancakes with garlic oil.

Another favorite is bryndzové halušk, potato dumplings with sheep cheese and delicious roasted bacon.

#02

Wiener Würstels - Vienna, Austria

When you think of Vienna and fine foods, there are so many options to try, but for something authentic, look for a Würstelstand, a traditional Austrian ‘wiener stand.’ These stalls were created during the Austro-Hungarian empire to help war veterans earn a living.

#03

Traditional Gulyás – Budapest, Hungary

You’ve probably had Hungarian goulash, but have you had it mere steps from Buda Castle after you’ve spent the day exploring this beautiful European capital?

This hearty stew is often made with root vegetables, beef, pork, and various spices, including paprika.

The many flavors you can enjoy while experiencing the Danube River.

#04

Mekitsi – Vidin, Bulgaria

Dating back to the 1st century, Vidin packs a small punch in culinary specialties. You can’t leave this little town without trying mekitsi’s from a local bakery. These little donuts are stuffed with cheese and often eaten with local cheese and a bit of jam or honey.

#05

Ćevapi – Belgrade, Serbia

Belgrade is one of Europe's most underrated culinary capitals, and you’ll likely want to try everything. One of the most popular dishes to try is Ćevapi, a serving of 10 fingerlings of minced meat with chopped onions, seasoned with garlic, paprika, and pepper.

#06

Wachauer marillenknödel – Dürnstein, Austria

Perched upon the banks of the Danube sits the picturesque Wachau Valley and the beautiful town of Dürnstein, home to the world’s best apricots.

Wachauer marillenknödel is a decadent apricot-filled dumpling rolled in butter-fried breadcrumbs and topped with a sprinkle of powdered cinnamon.

Wachauer marillenknödel from Dürnstein, Austria.

#07

Cambozola – Passau, Germany

You can’t possibly leave the Danube without having tried as many kinds of cheese along the way as possible. Cambozola is a beloved local favorite in Passau–It’s cow-based triple cream cheese. If the name sounds a little familiar, it’s because it’s a cross between Gorgonzola and Camembert cheese.

#08

River Fish – Novi Sad, Serbia

As one of the most ethnic and culturally diverse towns in the region, Novi Sad offers up the enthusiastic foodie a plethora of fusion foods to sate the appetite. But river fish is something you’ll find in just about every restaurant. Make sure to try perch, carp, sturgeon, or grilled catfish.

#09

Pork Knuckle – Wurzburg, Germany

Wurzburg is another multicultural city with myriad options, including many French restaurants. However, if you’re after something authentic, pork knuckle is a local favorite–Cooked in beer and spices.

Pork Knuckle from Wurzburg, Germany.

#10

Topfentascherl (Curd Pastry) – Melk, Austria

If you’re trying to satisfy a sweet tooth craving, there is no better place than Europe–It’s just one big open bakery, and Topfentascherl will address that craving.

Topfentascherl is a delicious pastry filled with curd and fruits like banana or apricot and is the perfect accompaniment to an aromatic cup of coffee.

Rich coffee culture, delectable desserts, buttery pastries, and savory treasures are waiting for you in every port. Food is likely going to be a reoccurring theme of your river cruise.

Bring an empty stomach, an open mind, and some stretchy pants because river cruising along the Danube should always be a ‘no carb left behind' type of experience you’ll remember for years to come!

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