Danube Delta
Europe's largest delta — a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
What it feels like
Slow water under a flat sky. The boat engine cuts off and suddenly all you hear is reeds, frogs, a heron landing somewhere out of sight.
Where Europe's second-longest river surrenders to the Black Sea, the Danube splits into three arms and a maze of channels, lakes and reed beds. Common and Dalmatian pelicans, white-tailed eagles, herons — a birdwatcher's ultimate destination. Old Lipovan fishing villages still operate the way they did 200 years ago.
Best time to visit
April through October. May–June for migrating birds; July–August for swimming and warmth; September for fewer crowds and migrating cormorants.
How to get there
By car/train to Tulcea, then boat. Day trips and multi-day boat tours from Tulcea, Murighiol, or Crișan. Letea/Sulina by passenger ferry.
