For summer 2025, the legendary hop-on, hop-off boat tours are returning along the spectacular Danube Bend, welcoming travelers who want to leave the car behind and travel in style. This much-loved circuit connects Visegrád, Nagymaros, Zebegény, Dömös, and even Esztergom, making it the perfect adventure for anyone who loves fresh air, beautiful river views, and a dash of Hungarian history. Daily tickets let you board or exit at any stop, whenever you wish, and explore as the Danube breeze leads you.
Unforgettable Danube Views
The Esztergom (Esztergom) branch of the river cruise offers a true wow factor. From the deck, you’ll soak in panoramic views of the cathedral-like Esztergom Basilica (Esztergomi bazilika)—the largest church in Hungary and an iconic local monument. Cruise beneath the Mary Valerie Bridge (Mária Valéria híd) that links Hungary and Slovakia, and marvel at the green, rolling hills of the Danube Bend winding below you. The landscape along this stretch is unique, where lush mountains and wide river curves blend nature and history in equal measure.
Flexible Hop-On Hop-Off Fun
Boats run a loop between Visegrád, Nagymaros, Zebegény, and Dömös, so passengers can plan their own adventure. Grab a day pass and get on or off as often as you like, pausing to hike or sightsee before returning to the river. Whether you want a full day on the water or to break the journey with a riverside stroll, the choice is yours.
Departing from Visegrád, the first stop is Nagymaros, where the Julianus Lookout (Julianus-kilátó) offers sweeping vistas. In Zebegény, adventure awaits: hike up to the Trianon Memorial (Trianoni emlékmű) or the Károly Kós Lookout (Kós Károly-kilátó), each offering a unique perspective of the meandering Danube. Art lovers shouldn’t miss the István Szőnyi Memorial Museum (Szőnyi István Emlékmúzeum), where the acclaimed painter’s works are displayed in a peaceful, leafy setting.
Cruise on towards Dömös to see the Pilis Mountains (Pilis-hegység). From here, hiking trails lead to the dramatic Rám Canyon (Rám-szakadék) or the ancient, thousand-year-old church, making Dömös an essential detour for nature lovers or history enthusiasts.
Back on the water, you’ll return to Nagymaros. Train transfers are available here, taking you back to town, or you can continue by boat to Visegrád for one last glimpse of the medieval fortress silhouetted against the hills.
2025 Dates and Destinations
The Zebegény (Zebegény) boat circuit runs almost non-stop throughout the summer and into autumn, with regular routes from July into early November. Key dates include July 1–6, then weekly through September 14, and extended weekends through late October and early November. This schedule ensures there’s always time for a getaway, whether you’re avoiding the high season or chasing fall colors.
Where to Stay in Zebegény
A favorite spot for nature lovers, Zebegény (Zebegény) sits at the heart of the Danube Bend, on the southern slopes of the Börzsöny Mountains (Börzsöny). The village is a year-round treasure: go hiking in spring and autumn, swim or relax on the marked Danube beaches in summer, or even visit the local ski slopes in winter—the Zebegény ski run (Zebegényi sípálya) and the more extensive Visegrád (Visegrád) and Great Cold Mountain (Nagy-Hideghegy) slopes are just a short drive away.
Guesthouses and apartments dot the hills and village. Many offer panoramic river views right from your bed, so you won’t have to sacrifice comfort to enjoy the Danube. A highlight is the Holiday Apartment House (Holiday Apartmanház), quietly perched atop the hills with four separate apartments designed to showcase the breathtaking scenery as the main attraction.
Looking for something even more off-grid? Zebegény and nearby Szob (Szob) have forested farmsteads offering traditional Hungarian fare and home-crafted cheeses, perfect for sampling local flavors after a hike. For lovers of sustainability, there’s Natura Hill (Natura Hill), an eco-conscious lodge on the former vineyard hills above Zebegény, complete with slow-food dining and a “good life” philosophy. And for those craving mindful downtime, Sun Yard (Naptanya) in the nearby Danube-Ipoly National Park (Duna-Ipoly Nemzeti Park) welcomes not just yoga retreats but self-discovery groups, martial arts camps, and city dwellers who just want to unplug and listen to the wind in the trees.
Whether you’re a hiker, swimmer, skier, or dedicated lounger, accommodation options range from cozy guesthouses with large kitchens and Wi-Fi to forest hideaways where you can grill under the stars. For couples, Sun Hill Guesthouse (Naphegy Vendégház) adds a romantic touch with forest views and a private Danube shoreline just minutes from your door.
Traditional Tastes and Local Hospitality
Between boat rides and mountain walks, visitors can refuel with traditional dishes at local eateries, sample homemade cheese from secluded farmsteads, or enjoy chef-prepared masterpieces at eco-friendly estates. From farm-to-table freshness to classic Hungarian recipes, Zebegény will keep your stomach satisfied as your spirit soaks up the Danube’s charm.
Don’t Miss the Adventure
With tours running throughout summer and autumn, and the freedom to explore the Danube Bend your way, Zebegény’s river adventures promise a memorable escape. Pack your camera, bring your hiking shoes, and let the Danube do the rest. Just remember, schedules and programs may change—so check ahead before you set sail, and get ready for one of Hungary’s most stunning journeys.
