SONATA FOR AUSTRIA

Sitting on the majestic Danube River, Vienna is one of the most cultural cities in Europe. Austria's capital has long been Europe's spiritual home of classical music. The heritage of famous composers seems to exude from the streets that are packed with magnificent architecture reflecting the grandeur of the imperial Hapsburgs. Must-see attractions include the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, City Hall and the Vienna State Opera. Don't forget to sample the Viennese cuisine. Be sure to try Vienna's famous Sacher Torte chocolate cake. Naschmarkt on the edge of Vienna's old town is a true foodie paradise! At around 5km long, it is the largest inner-city market and one of the most popular attractions.

Set along the Danube and surrounded by vineyards, the small town of Dürnstein welcomes visitors with stunning river views. From the boat, its highlights come into focus, the striking Kuenringerburg Castle ruins perched above the town and the beautiful baroque Dürnstein Abbey.

Melk is the gateway to Wachau. Anyone who approaches the historic city on the Danube will soon discover Melk Abbey, which towers high above the river. The abbey is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and is worth a visit in all seasons. The impressive baroque ensemble has been looked after buy the monks of the Benedictine order since 1089. Culture, faith and science come together in the magnificent rooms of the monastery.

The Danube River changes the direction of its flow, due to a bend in the river, in the Austrian city of Linz. Visitors to Linz on the Danube will enjoy the Donaupark which forms a part of the city's 'cultural mile'. The park is located between the Brucknerhaus music venue and the Kunstmuseum. The whole city can be viewed from the Pöstlingberg mountain.

Located in Germany at the confluence of three rivers, as the river Danube is joined by the Inn from the south and the Ilz from the north, the Bavarian town of Passau has a charm that attracts tourists from far and wide. Passau is an exciting tapestry of old and new – a place that is modern and welcoming with many ancient traditions. The town can trace its roots back to the 2nd century AD when it was established as a colony of the Roman Empire. Pretty little lanes and beautiful squares, Passau has much to discover in the way of art and architecture, great places to eat and drink as well as fantastic places to party, shop, stroll and relax.