Bamberg to Passau

Day 1: Bamberg - Overnight dock
Day 2: Overnight dock - Nürnberg - Roth, 19 - 22 mi. (30 - 35 km)
Day 3: Roth - Riedenburg, 31 - 37 mi. (50 - 60 km)
Day 4: Riedenburg - Kelheim - Regensburg, 25 - 28 mi. (40 - 45 km)
Day 5: Regensburg, 12 - 16 mi. (20 - 25 km)
Day 6: Regensburg - Straubing, 19 - 22 mi. (30 - 35 km) or extend to 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Day 7: Straubing - Passau, 25 - 28 mi. (40 - 45 km) or extend to 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Day 8: Passau

All distances are approximate. The itinerary is subject to change without prior notice. Some waterways may be subject to occasional closures due to drought, storms, floods, canal or lock repairs, or other unforeseen circumstances that make navigation unsafe or impossible. The captain reserves the right to make any changes deemed necessary.

Day 1: Bamberg - overnight dock
After an afternoon check‑in, the Merlijn sets sail. A welcome drink is served as you meet the crew, receive tour and ship information, and participate in a safety briefing. Once departing from Bamberg, your bike and barge journey truly begins. Relax in the lounge or on the outdoor terrace with a drink as you take in the sights along the Main-Danube Canal, and enjoy a delicious dinner as the cruise continues late into the night.

Day 2: Overnight dock - Nürnberg - Roth, 19 - 22 mi. (30 - 35 km)
Following breakfast and a brief bike introduction, set off early into the picturesque Regnitz Valley. Today’s ride, which passes through Stadeln and Fürth, is gentle enough to leave you plenty of time to explore the historic center of Nürnberg, a city steeped in history yet buzzing with university life. After your visit, cycle back to the dock where the Merlijn awaits. In the afternoon, resume the cruise to Roth, passing one of the highest locks on the Main-Donau Canal. Post-dinner, enjoy an evening stroll before settling in for the night.

Day 3: Roth - Riedenburg, 31 - 37 mi. (50 - 60 km)
Today’s cycling takes you mainly along gravel paths beside the canal. Begin with a coffee stop at a traditional German bakery, then continue your journey toward Berching. Part of the route follows the abandoned Ludwig-Donau-Main Canal, a historic waterway constructed between 1836 and 1846 and named for King Ludwig. Cycle past the village of Plankstetten, where an iconic Benedictine monastery, founded in 1129, dominates the forest’s edge. Then, continue along the Main-Donau Canal to Beilngries in the heart of the Altmühltal. After a short rest, ride through the Altmühl valley to reach Riedenburg, a stunning medieval town where you might visit either St. John Baptist Church or the Church of Our Lady, which, despite its Baroque appearance, dates back to the 12th century.

Day 4: Riedenburg - Kelheim - Regensburg, 25 - 28 mi. (40 - 45 km)
Enjoy breakfast while the Merlijn continues on its course. As you near Essing, a remarkable wooden bridge (and the longest in Europe at 193 metres) comes into view, marking the start of today’s bike tour. Follow the canal’s towpath until the water backs up before the Kelheim lock, resembling a lake. Cross the lock by bridge and visit Kelheim before riding on to Regensburg, where the Altmühl cycle route merges with the Danube path. Along the way, pedal through the Winzer vineyards and visit Bad Abbach, famed for its sulphur and mud baths. Return to the ship in the afternoon, where a well-deserved dinner awaits.

Day 5: Regensburg, 12 - 16 mi. (20 - 25 km)
The Merlijn remains in port today, giving you ample time to explore Regensburg. This impeccably preserved medieval city boasts highlights such as an 8th‑century cathedral, a collegiate church, and the historic stone imperial bridge. Whether you’re cycling, delving into local culture, or simply relaxing, you have plenty of options. A guided bike tour will include an intriguing stop at the Walhalla near Donaustauf, a temple built by King Ludwig I to honor notable Germans.

Day 6: Regensburg - Straubing, 19 - 22 mi. (30 - 35 km) or extend to 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Early in the morning, cruise away from bustling Regensburg. At the next stop, begin your bike tour along the renowned ‘Donau Radweg’. After lunch, arrive at Straubing where you may choose to explore the town or continue for an extended ride if you’re looking for more cycling. Straubing, a ducal city with Celtic and Roman roots, is celebrated for its distinctive green spired tower, charming town square, elegant baroque houses, and the noteworthy Graubünden Museum.

Day 7: Straubing - Passau, 25 - 28 mi. (40 - 45 km) or extend to 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Start the day with a cruise along the most scenic stretch of the Blue Danube, enjoying panoramic views from one of Merlijn’s terraces. The cruise takes you past Bogen, set at the foot of the steep Bogen mountain, and then to Pfelling, a small village known for recording water levels in this shallow stretch of the Danube. As your final bike tour commences, soon arrive in Deggendorf, famously known as the gateway to the Bavarian Forest. Its town centre, reminiscent of Straubing with Gothic and Baroque influences, is well worth exploring. The last leg of your ride along the Danube cycle path leads you via Niederalteich, home to one of Bavaria’s oldest Benedictine monasteries.From here you have two options. You can rejoin the Merlijn for an afternoon cruise, or you may opt to extend your cycling near Passau. Either way, enjoy the final moments of your bike and barge journey with a drink on the terrace. Finally, navigate the last lock and cruise into Passau, the unique three‑river city where the Inn, Ilz, and Danube converge. Conclude the day with a captain’s dinner on board.

Day 8: Passau
Later in the morning, it’s time to say farewell as you either continue your European adventure or head to the airport. 

Looking for more? View all of our featured bike & barge tours, or view our full list of bike trips.

• Merlijn

  Deluxe

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  4.9 out of 5 (10 Reviews)

  View Boat

  Deluxe Class Barge

  Touring Bicycle

  The Merlijn prides itself on the top quality bikes offered and as of 2023, have brand new standard bikes available. Although only your own helmet provides the best fit, bicycle helmets are available… Read More

  Electric Bicycle

  The Merlijn has unisex e-bikes available to rent. These must be reserved in advance. • Gudereit or ISY Brand … • 7 gears … • Bosch engine … Accessories … • Pannier bag … • Helmet rental included and… Read More

  "The Divine Miss M" as we lovingly call the Merlijn is a diva, for sure. What can we say? Is it the luxurious cabins with the most comfortable beds you have ever slept in? Is it the lovely dining area with the large windows and skylight that let the air, light, and sun pour in? Or perhaps it is the sun deck, where you can relax with newfound friends, sharing good wine and good conversation. We think you will find it is the entire divine package! Step on board and discover for yourself! Read More