Here are some facts about the River Danube.
- Danube is Europe’s second longest river, after the River Volga. It flows for 1,785 miles from the Black Forest in Germany to the Black Sea.
- The Danube flows through or flows along the borders of 10 countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Bulgaria, Moldova, Ukraine and Romania. It also flows through four capital cities: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and Belgrade.
- The Danube has a drainage area of about 315,000 square miles. It has about 300 tributaries, of which about 30 are navigable.
- The Danube’s delta is the second largest in the world and it is still growing. It is also Europe’s largest wetlands reserve and is home to about 5000 species of plants, birds and animals.
- About a third of the river’s total length is in Hungary. Hungary’s capital, Budapest is one of Europe’s most beautiful cities and is sometimes called Queen of the Danube.
- During the 7th century BC, Greek sailors were navigating the river. During Roman times, the Danube River served as the northern boundary of the vast Roman Empire.
- The first river cruises on the River Danube were in the early 19th century. Today, Danube river cruises are still incredibly popular.
- Although some people still fish in the Danube, fishing has declined over the last few centuries.
- About 10 million people in Europe get their drinking water from the Danube.
- Over the centuries, the River Danube has inspired artists, writers and composers. One of the most famous works is a piece of music called The Blue Danube by Johann Strauss.
- There are hiking trails and bike trails along much of the Danube’s length. The hiking trail runs for about 600 miles, while the cycle trail covers the entire length of the river.
What next? Discover more river facts by visiting our rivers resources page.
