Danube Bike Path - Passau to Vienna
Germany, Austria Bike Tours
Bike on Europe’s most famous cycle path between historic cities
- Tour Type
- Skill Level
- Length6–10 days
- Prices from€713 Rates
- Book This Trip
Overview
The Danube Cycle Path is among the most beautiful cycling routes in all of Europe.
Starting in the three-river city of Passau, you will follow the cool, clear water of the Danube, enjoying the breathtaking natural beauty of Upper and Lower Austria before finally reaching the buzzing metropolis of Vienna. We offer different versions of this tour with varying lengths and difficulty levels and even offer a charmed version with upscale accommodations.
Regardless of the length of the tour you choose, you will witness the incredible Danube Bend at Schlögen, the Danube valley, and the wonderful landscapes of the well-known Wachau Region.
Highlights
- Cycling the most famous cycle path in Europe
- Picturesque villages, lovely landscapes, and Austrian cuisine
- Danube loop of Schlögen, cultural metropolis of Linz, and the Greinburg Castle
- Benedictine Abbey of Melk
- World-famous wine from the Wachau and Kunstmeile Krems
- Centrally located overnight villages along the Danube
A comprehensive list of all of our bike tours in Austria and bike tours in Germany can be found here.
Itinerary
Daily distances and exact overnight destinations depend on the category of hotels and the length of the tour booked. All distances are approximate. You may encounter deviations in the route due to road work or other unforeseen circumstances.
Day 1: Arrival in Passau
Day 2: Passau - Danube Bend and surroundings, 22 - 25 mi. (35 - 40 km)
Day 3: Danube Bend - Linz, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Day 4: Linz - Ardagger/Grein, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Day 5: Ardagger/Grein - Wachau Valley, 40 mi. (65 km)
Day 6: Wachau Valley - Tulln, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Day 7: Tulln - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 8: Individual departure from ViennaDay 1: Passau
You will arrive at the Three-River City of Passau, one of the oldest cities in Bavaria. If you arrive early, be sure to take a stroll on the delightful old-world cobblestoned streets and visit the jewel of the city: Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. This Italian Baroque-style building is home to the largest organ outside of the United States. In the evening, our personal representative will hand over your bikes and provide a welcome meeting.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Residenz or Hotel Passauer Wolf
Cat. B - Hotel Spitzberg PassauDay 2: Passau - Danube Bend and surroundings, 22 - 25 mi. (35 - 40 km)
Today you will start your trip along the Daube River. Via Obernzell, you pedal through the Sauwald region with lush forests and abundant farmland to Engelhartszell. Stift Engelszell or Engelszell Abbey, founded in 1293, is the only Trappist monastery in Austria and is also home to the only Trappist brewery in the country (and only one of eight total outside of Belgium). The ride continues through the Donauleiten nature reserve, from where you reach the Schlögen Bend. This is where you'll see the mighty Danube river change directions by 180 degrees, an incredible natural spectacle!Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Riverresort Donauschlinge or Hotel & Seminarkultur an der Donau Wesenufer
Cat. B - Gasthof Draxler NiederrannaDay 3: Danube Bend - Linz, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
The route leads through the green Eferdinger Basin via the market towns of Aschach, Ottensheim, and Wilhering. You'll eventually reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. Linz is unique as it features an awesome combination of historical buildings, stunning architecture, vast areas of green space, and modern innovations. The Castle of Linz, the New Cathedral, and Pöstlingberg Mountain are all notable highlights. Don't forget the many eateries where you'll have to sample the famous Linz Pie.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Schwarzer Bär Linz or Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger Linz
Cat. B - COURTYARD by Marriott Hotel Linz or Hotel Prielmayerhof LinzDay 4: Linz - Ardagger/Grein, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
You will pedal away from the course of the Danube for a change, via St. Florian (Augustinian monastery) to Enns, the oldest town in Austria. In Enns, you can view the town square with its 60-meter-high tower, or visit the archaeological collection in the municipal museum Lauriacum. You'll eventually pedal back to the Danube until reaching the beautiful baroque town of Grein. Here you have the opportunity to visit the oldest municipal theater in Austria that is still being used today. Additionally, you can visit the Greinburg Castle; possibly Grein's most popular attraction and one of the first castles in this region.
Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Goldenes Kreuz Grein or Gasthof Zur Traube Grein
Cat. B - Gasthof Zur Donaubrücke Ardagger or Schiffsmeisterhaus ArdaggerDay 5: Ardagger/Grein - Wachau Valley, 40 mi. (65 km)
This section of the Danube, the Strudengau, was once feared by sailors due to the strong currents, but now you can cycle along it peacefully. In Maria Taferl, high above the Danube, you will find the magnificent pilgrimage church, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Be sure to make a stop in Melk and admire the beautiful monastery that overlooks the Danube. As soon as you leave Melk, you will cycle into the picturesque Wachau region, where you can enjoy the charming atmosphere of the region’s typical orchards and vineyards. A wine tasting is almost a must in this area - we have included it for you.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Landhotel Kirchenwirt Weißenkirchen or Renaissancehotel Raffelsberger Hof Weißenkirchen
Cat. B - Gasthof Goldenes Schiff Spitz or Gasthof Prankl SpitzDay 6: Wachau Valley - Tulln, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Starting today's ride, you will pass through the little wine village of Dürnstein, famous for its ancient castle that once imprisoned English King Richard the Lionheart. You will continue pedaling along until reaching the 1000-year-old town of Krems, before finishing your day in Tulln. The city is also known as the "city of flowers". The local Egon-Schiele-museum is worth a visit. Enjoy your last night in this more rural area of Austria before heading to the capital of Vienna.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Diamond City Tulln or Hotel Das Römerhof Tulln
Cat. B - Hotel Nibelungenhof Tulln or Pension Kirchenblick TullnDay 7: Tulln - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km)
The final miles of your bike tour will be a relaxed trip to the Austrian metropolis of Vienna. There is so much to do and see here! Treat yourself to a Viennese-style Americano coffee and a piece of the famous Sachertorte cake in one of Vienna’s typical coffee houses. Explore the imperial Schönbrunn Palace and gardens, visit the Hofburg, or spend some time shopping on the Mariahilfer Strasse.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Austria Classic Hotel Vienna or Hotel Der Wilhelmshof Vienna
Cat. B - ROOMZ Hotel Prater Vienna or Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Vienna Prater/MesseDay 8: Departure from Vienna
Your tour in Vienna, unless you desire to book additional nights. We offer a transfer from Vienna back to Passau (daily, departing at 2 pm) with advanced reservation.Day 1: Arrival in Passau
Day 2: Passau - Danube Bend and surroundings, 22 - 25 mi. (35 - 40 km)
Day 3: Danube Bend - Linz, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
Day 4: Linz - Enns and surrounding, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 5: Enns surroundings - Ardagger/Grein, 19 - 22 mi. (30 - 35 km)
Day 6: Ardagger - Grein - Melk, 28 - 31 mi. (45 - 50 km)
Day 7: Melk - Krems, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 8: Krems - Tulln, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 9: Tulln - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 10: Individual departure from ViennaDay 1: Passau
You will arrive at the Three-River City of Passau, one of the oldest cities in Bavaria. If you arrive early, be sure to take a stroll on the delightful old-world cobblestoned streets and visit the jewel of the city: Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. This Italian Baroque-style building is home to the largest organ outside of the United States. In the evening, our personal representative will hand over your bikes and provide a welcome meeting.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Residenz or Hotel Passauer Wolf
Cat. B - Hotel Spitzberg PassauDay 2: Passau - Danube Bend and surroundings, 22 - 25 mi. (35 - 40 km)
Today you will start your trip along the Daube River. Via Obernzell, you pedal through the Sauwald region with lush forests and abundant farmland to Engelhartszell. Stift Engelszell or Engelszell Abbey, founded in 1293, is the only Trappist monastery in Austria and is also home to the only Trappist brewery in the country (and only one of eight total outside of Belgium). The ride continues through the Donauleiten nature reserve, from where you reach the Schlögen Bend. This is where you'll see the mighty Danube river change directions by 180 degrees, an incredible natural spectacle!Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Riverresort Donauschlinge or Hotel & Seminarkultur an der Donau Wesenufer
Cat. B - Gasthof Draxler NiederrannaDay 3: Danube Bend - Linz, 34 - 37 mi. (55 - 60 km)
The route leads through the green Eferdinger Basin via the market towns of Aschach, Ottensheim, and Wilhering. You'll eventually reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. Linz is unique as it features an awesome combination of historical buildings, stunning architecture, vast areas of green space, and modern innovations. The Castle of Linz, the New Cathedral, and Pöstlingberg Mountain are all notable highlights. Don't forget the many eateries where you'll have to sample the famous Linz Pie.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Schwarzer Bär Linz or Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger Linz
Cat. B - COURTYARD by Marriott Hotel Linz or Hotel Prielmayerhof LinzDay 4: Linz - Enns and surrounding, 19 mi. (30 km)
You will pedal away from the course of the Danube for a change, via St. Florian (Augustinian monastery) to Enns, the oldest town in Austria. In Enns, you can view the town square with its 60-meter-high tower, or visit the archaeological collection in the municipal museum Lauriacum. Enns is also full of medieval courtyards that you'll definitely want to peek into as you walk around this charming town.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Donauhotel Lettnerhof Au or Hotel Goldenes Schiff Enns
Cat. B - Hotel Goldenes Schiff Enns or Donauhotel Lettnerhof AuDay 5: Enns surroundings - Ardagger/Grein, 19 - 22 mi. (30 - 35 km)
You'll pedal back to the Danube until reaching the beautiful baroque town of Grein. Here you have the opportunity to visit the oldest municipal theater in Austria that is still being used today. Additionally, you can visit the Greinburg Castle; possibly Grein's most popular attraction and one of the first castles in this region.
Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Goldenes Kreuz Grein or Gasthof Zur Traube Grein
Cat. B - Gasthof Zur Donaubrücke Ardagger or Schiffsmeisterhaus ArdaggerDay 6: Ardagger - Grein - Melk, 28 - 31 mi. (45 - 50 km)
This section of the Danube, the Strudengau, was once feared by sailors due to the strong currents, but now you can cycle along it peacefully. In Maria Taferl, high above the Danube, you will find the magnificent pilgrimage church, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Your destination today is Melk. Entering into town, you'll immediately notice the magnificent Melk Abbey standing high atop a rocky hill; the focal point of the area. This Abbey was named a UNESCO world cultural heritage site with a rich history dating back to 1089.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Hotel Zur Post Melk or Hotel Rathauskeller Melk
Cat. B - Hotel Wachauerhof MelkDay 7: Melk - Krems, 25 mi. (40 km)
Leaving Melk, you enter into the picturesque Wachau region, where the scenery of orchards and vineyards accompanies you. You pass through the little wine towns of Spitz and Weißenkirchen, cycling by the Dürnstein castle ruin, and finishing your journey in the 1000-year-old town of Krems. Krems city’s center is a virtually untouched 18th-century Old Town, whose architecture includes one of Austria's oldest churches. A stay in the Wachau region means that you simply must take part in a wine tasting.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Steigenberger Hotel and SPA Krems or Hotel Klinglhuber Krems
Cat. B - Hotel Unter den Linden or Gasthaus Klinglhuber KremsDay 8: Krems - Tulln, 28 mi. (45 km)
Today you cycle to the Roman town of Tulln. The city is also known as the "city of flowers" thanks to its multitude of parks, gardens, and horticultural exhibitions. Perhaps the most important of Tulln’s sites is the Nibelungen Fountain. According to The Song of the Nibelung, it was in Tulln that Attila the Hun found and proposed to his wife. The local Egon-Schiele-museum is also worth a visit.Day 9: Tulln - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km)
The final miles of your bike tour will be a relaxed trip to the Austrian metropolis of Vienna. There is so much to do and see here! Treat yourself to a Viennese-style Americano coffee and a piece of the famous Sachertorte cake in one of Vienna’s typical coffee houses. Explore the imperial Schönbrunn Palace and gardens, visit the Hofburg, or spend some time shopping on the Mariahilfer Strasse.Sample accommodation:
Cat. A - Austria Classic Hotel Vienna or Hotel Der Wilhelmshof Vienna
Cat. B - ROOMZ Hotel Prater Vienna or Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Vienna Prater/MesseDay 10: Individual departure from Vienna
Individual departure from Vienna, extra nights are possible! We offer a transfer from Vienna back to Passau (daily, departing at 2 pm) with advanced reservation.Day 1: Arrival in Passau
Day 2: Passau - Aschach/Brandstatt, 43 mi. (70 km)
Day 3: Aschach/Brandstatt - Ardagger/Grein, 50 mi. (80 km)
Day 4: Ardagger/Grein - Krems, 53 mi. (85 km)
Day 5: Krems - Vienna, 50 mi. (80 km)
Day 6: Individual departure from ViennaDay 1: Arrival in Passau
You will arrive at the Three-River City of Passau, one of the oldest cities in Bavaria. If you arrive early, be sure to take a stroll on the delightful old-world cobblestoned streets and visit the jewel of the city: Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. This Italian Baroque-style building is home to the largest organ outside of the United States. In the evening, our personal representative will hand over your bikes and provide a welcome meeting.Sample accommodation:
Hotel Residenz or Hotel Passauer WolfDay 2: Passau - Aschach/Brandstatt, 43 mi. (70 km)
Today you will start your trip along the Daube River. Via Obernzell, you pedal through the Sauwald region with lush forests and abundant farmland to Engelhartszell. Stift Engelszell or Engelszell Abbey, founded in 1293, is the only Trappist monastery in Austria and is also home to the only Trappist brewery in the country (and only one of eight total outside of Belgium). The ride continues through the Donauleiten nature reserve, from where you reach the Schlögen Bend. This is where you'll see the mighty Danube river change directions by 180 degrees, an incredible natural spectacle that you will admire during a ferry ride to the other side of the river. Soon you will reach Aschach, where you will find your hotel.Sample accommodation:
Landgasthof Dieplinger Brandstatt or Hotel Faustschlössl AschachDay 3: Aschach/Brandstatt - Ardagger/Grein, 50 mi. (80 km)
The route leads through the green Eferdinger Basin via the market towns of Aschach, Ottensheim, and Wilhering. You'll eventually reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. Linz is unique as it features an awesome combination of historical buildings, stunning architecture, vast areas of green space, and modern innovations. Further highlights of the European cultural capital of 2009 are the magnificent views from the Pöstlingberg. Later, you will continue your trip towards Strudengau and Nibelungengau to Grein and its surroundings. Here you have the opportunity to visit the oldest municipal theater in Austria that is still being used today.Sample accommodation:
Hotel Goldenes Kreuz Grein or Gasthof Zur Traube GreinDay 4: Ardagger/Grein - Krems, 53 mi. (85 km)
Leaving Grein, you'll pedal down river passing through Melk. Entering into town, you'll immediately notice the magnificent Melk Abbey standing high atop a rocky hill; the focal point of the area. You'll continue through the wine towns of Spitz and Weißenkirchen, cycling by the Dürnstein castle ruin, and finishing your journey in the 1000-year-old town of Krems. Krems city’s center is a virtually untouched 18th-century Old Town, whose architecture includes one of Austria's oldest churches. A stay in the Wachau region means that you simply must take part in a wine tasting.Sample accommodation:
Hotel Klinglhuber Krems or Hotel Unter den Linden KremsDay 5: Krems - Vienna, 50 mi. (80 km)
Today you will pedal via Traismauer and visit the Roman town of Tulln. The city is also known as the "city of flowers" thanks to its multitude of parks, gardens, and horticultural exhibitions. The final miles of your bike tour will be a relaxed trip to the Austrian metropolis of Vienna. There is so much to do and see here! Treat yourself to a Viennese-style Americano coffee and a piece of the famous Sachertorte cake in one of Vienna’s typical coffee houses. Explore the imperial Schönbrunn Palace and gardens, visit the Hofburg, or spend some time shopping on the Mariahilfer Strasse.Sample accommodation:
ROOMZ Hotel Prater Vienna or Courtyard by Marriott Hotel Vienna Prater/MesseDay 6: Individual departure from Vienna
Individual departure from Vienna, extra nights are possible! We offer a transfer from Vienna back to Passau (daily, departing at 2 pm) with advanced reservation.9 days/8 nights (Charm accommodations)
Day 1: Arrival in Passau
Day 2: Passau - Schlögen/Danube Bend, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: Schlögen/Danube Bend - Linz, 34 mi. (55 km)
Day 4: Linz - Ardagger/Grein, 34 mi. (55 km)
Day 5: Ardagger/Grein - Melk, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 6: Melk - Dürnstein, 19 mi. (30 km)
Day 7: Dürnstein - Tulln, 31 mi. (50 km)
Day 8: Tulln - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 9: Individual departure from ViennaDay 1: Passau
You will arrive at the Three-River City of Passau, one of the oldest cities in Bavaria. If you arrive early, be sure to take a stroll on the delightful old-world cobblestoned streets and visit the jewel of the city: Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. This Italian Baroque-style building is home to the largest organ outside of the United States. In the evening, our personal representative will hand over your bikes and provide a welcome meeting.Sample accommodation:
Hotel Passauer Wolf, Room category: Luxury or Hotel Residenz in Passau, Room category: ComfortDay 2: Passau - Schlögen/Danube Bend, 25 mi. (40 km)
Today you will start your trip along the Daube River. Via Obernzell, you pedal through the Sauwald region with lush forests and abundant farmland to Engelhartszell. Stift Engelszell or Engelszell Abbey, founded in 1293, is the only Trappist monastery in Austria and is also home to the only Trappist brewery in the country (and only one of eight total outside of Belgium). The ride continues through the Donauleiten nature reserve, from where you reach the Schlögen Bend. This is where you'll see the mighty Danube river change directions by 180 degrees, an incredible natural spectacle that you will admire during a ferry ride to the other side of the river.Sample accommodation:
Riverresort Donauschlinge Schlögen, Room category: With balcony and Danube view or Hotel & Seminarkultur an der Donau Wesenufer, Room category: With Danube viewDay 3: Schlögen/Danube Bend - Linz, 34 mi. (55 km)
The route leads through the green Eferdinger Basin via the market towns of Aschach, Ottensheim, and Wilhering. You'll eventually reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. Linz is unique as it features an awesome combination of historical buildings, stunning architecture, vast areas of green space, and modern innovations. The Castle of Linz, the New Cathedral, and Pöstlingberg Mountain are all notable highlights. Don't forget the many eateries where you'll have to sample the famous Linz Pie.Sample accommodation:
Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger Linz, Room category: Superior or Hotel Am Domplatz Linz, Room category: StandardDay 4: Linz - Ardagger/Grein, 34 mi. (55 km)
You will pedal away from the course of the Danube for a change, via St. Florian (Augustinian monastery) to Enns, the oldest town in Austria. In Enns, you can view the town square with its 60-meter-high tower, or visit the archaeological collection in the municipal museum Lauriacum. You'll eventually pedal back to the Danube until reaching the beautiful baroque town of Grein. Here you have the opportunity to visit the oldest municipal theater in Austria that is still being used today. Additionally, you can visit the Greinburg Castle; possibly Grein's most popular attraction and one of the first castles in this region.Sample accommodation:
Wellnesshotel Aumühle Grein, Room category: Superior or Hotel Schiffsmeisterhaus Ardagger, Room category: GenießerDay 5: Ardagger/Grein - Melk, 31 mi. (50 km)
This section of the Danube, the Strudengau, was once feared by sailors due to the strong currents, but now you can cycle along it peacefully. In Maria Taferl, high above the Danube, you will find the magnificent pilgrimage church, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. Your destination today is Melk. Entering into town, you'll immediately notice the magnificent Melk Abbey standing high atop a rocky hill; the focal point of the area. This Abbey was named a UNESCO world cultural heritage site with a rich history dating back to 1089.
Sample accommodation:
Hotel Zur Post Melk, Room category: Comfort with AC or Hotel Rathauskeller Melk, Room category: DeluxeDay 6: Melk - Dürnstein, 19 mi. (30 km)
Leaving Melk, you enter into the picturesque Wachau region, where the scenery of orchards and vineyards accompanies you. You pass through the little wine towns of Spitz and Weißenkirchen, cycling to Dürnstein, a town seemingly straight out of a medieval novel. This place has taken its name from the castle which occupies the cliffs above, a must-visit for sure!Sample accommodation:
Hotel Schloss Dürnstein, Room category: Standard or Hotel Richard Löwenherz Dürnstein, Room category: DeluxeDay 7: Dürnstein - Tulln, 31 mi. (50 km)
You will continue pedaling along until reaching the 1000-year-old town of Krems. Krems city’s center is a virtually untouched 18th-century Old Town, whose architecture includes one of Austria's oldest churches. You finish your day in Tulln. The city is also known as the "city of flowers". The local Egon-Schiele-museum is worth a visit.Sample accommodation:
Hotel Nibelungenhof Tulln, Room category: Genießer or Diamond City Hotel Tulln, Room category: StandardDay 8: Tulln - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km)
The final miles of your bike tour will be a relaxed trip to the Austrian metropolis of Vienna. There is so much to do and see here! Treat yourself to a Viennese-style Americano coffee and a piece of the famous Sachertorte cake in one of Vienna’s typical coffee houses. Explore the imperial Schönbrunn Palace and gardens, visit the Hofburg, or spend some time shopping on the Mariahilfer Strasse.Sample accommodation:
Steigenberger Hotel Herrenhof Vienna, Room category: Standard or Hotel Ambassador Vienna, Room category: ClassicDay 9: Individual departure from Vienna
Individual departure from Vienna, extra nights are possible! We offer a transfer from Vienna back to Passau (daily, departing at 2 pm) with advanced reservation.Day 1: Passau
Day 2: Passau - Schlögen, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 3: Schlögen - Linz, 28 mi. (45 km) + train or ferry
Day 4: Linz - Mitterkirchen, 25 mi. (40 km)
Day 5: Mitterkirchen - Marbach, 28 mi. (45 km)
Day 6: Marbach - Krems, 25 mi. (40 km) + boat
Day 7: Krems - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km) + train
Day 8: Individual departure from ViennaDay 1: Passau
You will arrive at the Three-River City of Passau, one of the oldest cities in Bavaria. If you arrive early, be sure to take a stroll on the delightful old-world cobblestoned streets and visit the jewel of the city: Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. This Italian Baroque-style building is home to the largest organ outside of the United States. In the evening, our personal representative will hand over your bikes and provide a welcome meeting.Sample accommodation:
Hotel Passauer Wolf or Hotel Spitzberg PassauDay 2: Passau - Schlögen, 25 mi. (40 km)
Today you will start your trip along the Daube River. Via Obernzell, you pedal through the Sauwald region with lush forests and abundant farmland to Engelhartszell. Stift Engelszell or Engelszell Abbey, founded in 1293, is the only Trappist monastery in Austria and is also home to the only Trappist brewery in the country (and only one of eight total outside of Belgium). Children can spend some time at the so-called "Mini-Donau": an adventure park to learn about the different sections of the Danube. The ride continues through the Donauleiten nature reserve, from where you reach the Schlögen Bend. This is where you'll see the mighty Danube river change directions by 180 degrees, an incredible natural spectacle. In the evening, relax in the indoor swimming pool at your hotel.Sample accommodation:
River Resort Donauschlinge Schlögen, Room category: With balcony or Hotel & Seminarkultur an der Donau Wesenufer, Room category: With Danube viewDay 3: Schlögen - Linz, 28 mi. (45 km) + train or ferry
The route leads through the green Eferdinger Basin via the market towns of Aschach, Ottensheim, and Wilhering. You'll eventually reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. A train or ferry ticket is included for the last section. Linz is unique as it features an awesome combination of historical buildings, stunning architecture, vast areas of green space, and modern innovations. Pöstlingberg Mountain with the Fairytale World is a highlight!Sample accommodation:
COURTYARD by Marriott Hotel Linz or Hotel Prielmayerhof LinzDay 4: Linz - Mitterkirchen, 25 mi. (40 km)
You'll continue cycling through the river wetlands to the mouth of the river Enns. Take time to visit the oldest city of Austria, Enns, before reaching Mitterkirchen. You will be accommodated at an original farm where children have the possibility to feed the animals.Sample accommodation:
Radlerbauernhof Moser Mitterkirchen or Kraglhof MitterkirchenDay 5: Mitterkirchen - Marbach, 28 mi. (45 km)
The wild Strudengau-valley awaits as you cycle through the rich planes of the Machland area. Dreamy little towns and villages dot this countryside. On the way to today's destination of Marbach, you cycle through lush forests in untouched nature.Sample accommodation:
Landgasthof Zur Schönen Wienerin Marbach or Hotel Wachauerhof MarbachDay 6: Marbach - Krems, 25 mi. (40 km) + boat
The first stop on today's route is Melk. You'll immediately notice the magnificent Melk Abbey standing high atop a rocky hill; the focal point of the area. This Abbey was named a UNESCO world cultural heritage site with a rich history dating back to 1089. Continuing onwards, you pass winegrowing villages, old fortified churches, and ancient castles of the Wachau region. In Dürnstein, you will board a river boat to Krems, well known as the capital of the Wachau.Sample accommodation:
Hotel Unter den Linden Krems or Hotel Zum Goldenen Engel KremsDay 7: Krems - Vienna, 25 mi. (40 km) + train
You start in the morning with a train ride from Krems to Tulln. You'll pass Greifenstein and Klosterneuburg, tiny little Danube towns full of charm! Your tour ends in the buzzing metropolis of Vienna. Don’t forget to visit the Würstelprater, the vibrant entertainment area of Vienna’s Prater, and experience its electrifying energy. Included is a ride on the famous Ferris wheel.Sample accommodation:
ROOMZ Hotel Prater Vienna or COURTYARD by Marriott Hotel Vienna Prater/MesseDay 8: Individual departure from Vienna
Individual departure from Vienna, extra nights are possible! We offer a transfer from Vienna back to Passau (daily, departing at 2 pm) with advanced reservation.Accommodation
This bike tour features two hotel categories to suit every traveler’s needs!
Category A: Carefully selected 4-star and 3-star hotels in central locations; mostly accommodations with charm and Austrian tradition. Where possible, upgraded rooms are reserved.
Category B: Accommodation at guest houses and 3-star hotels and in the bigger cities some 4-star hotels.Inclusions
What’s Included
- Accommodations in the chosen category for length of tour
- Daily breakfast buffet
- Welcome meeting
- 21-gear hybrid bicycle with waterproof pannier bag, handlebar bag, tool kit with extra tube and pump, and combination lock
- Luggage transfer (no limit, each piece no heavier than 20kg)
- Emergency service hotline for the duration of the tour
- Detailed travel documents including GPS tracks (1 package per each room)
- Bike protection
- 1 wine tasting in the Wachau valley (3 wines + 1 sandwich)
- Ticket for the Ferris wheel in Vienna
- Train or ferry ticket from Ottensheim to Linz, including bike
- Train ticket from Krems to Tulln, including bike
- Boat ticket from Dürnstein to Krems, including bike
- Surprise for the children
- Ticket for Pöstlingbergbahn and Grottenbahn
- Ticket for Celtic Village in Mitterkirchen
- Ticket Mini Danube in Engelhartszell, including aquarium and sensory garden
- Ferry ticket Danube bend, including bike
Additionally for the CLASSIC & RELAXED itineraries
Additionally for the FAMILY itinerary
What’s Not Included
- All other meals except breakfast
- Local tourist tax if applicable
- Transfer back to Passau
- Travel Insurance
Dates & Pricing
Dates
Departures possible daily between April 1 and October 7, 2023
Please Note
- Rates are per person, based on double occupancy
- Tour prices are based on the fuel costs at time prices are set, often months or years in advance. In rare cases, additional fees may apply for fuel cost increases.
- Information to read before you book
- We recommend purchasing trip insurance
- Please see our FAQ
Pricing
2023
Season 1: April 1 - 14 | September 30 - October 7, 2023
Season 2: April 15 - May 5 | September 16 - 29, 2023
Season 3: May 6 - September 15, 2023Category A Category B Season 1 $ 1608 £ 855 $ 1,430 € 973 ₪ 3976 ¥ 148207 NZ$ 1751 NOK 11734 kr 11537 $ 1,063 $ 1360 £ 723 $ 1,209 € 823 ₪ 3363 ¥ 125359 NZ$ 1481 NOK 9925 kr 9758 $ 899 Season 2 $ 1731 £ 921 $ 1,540 € 1048 ₪ 4282 ¥ 159631 NZ$ 1886 NOK 12638 kr 12426 $ 1,145 $ 1525 £ 811 $ 1,356 € 923 ₪ 3772 ¥ 140591 NZ$ 1661 NOK 11131 kr 10944 $ 1,008 Season 3 $ 1855 £ 987 $ 1,650 € 1123 ₪ 4589 ¥ 171055 NZ$ 2021 NOK 13543 kr 13315 $ 1,227 $ 1649 £ 877 $ 1,466 € 998 ₪ 4078 ¥ 152015 NZ$ 1796 NOK 12035 kr 11833 $ 1,090 Single supplement $ 527 £ 280 $ 469 € 319 ₪ 1304 ¥ 48590 NZ$ 574 NOK 3847 kr 3782 $ 349 $ 387 £ 206 $ 344 € 234 ₪ 956 ¥ 35643 NZ$ 421 NOK 2822 kr 2774 $ 256 Half-board (6 three-course dinners excluding Vienna) $ 329 £ 175 $ 292 € 199 ₪ 813 ¥ 30312 NZ$ 358 NOK 2400 kr 2360 $ 217 $ 321 £ 170 $ 285 € 194 ₪ 793 ¥ 29550 NZ$ 349 NOK 2340 kr 2300 $ 212 Bike supplements
Premium rental bike $ 99 £ 53 $ 88 € 60 ₪ 245 ¥ 9139 NZ$ 108 NOK 724 kr 711 $ 66 Electric bike $ 231 £ 123 $ 206 € 140 ₪ 572 ¥ 21325 NZ$ 252 NOK 1688 kr 1660 $ 153 Category A Category B Season 1 $ 2037 £ 1084 $ 1,812 € 1233 ₪ 5038 ¥ 187810 NZ$ 2219 NOK 14870 kr 14619 $ 1,347 $ 1707 £ 908 $ 1,518 € 1033 ₪ 4221 ¥ 157346 NZ$ 1859 NOK 12458 kr 12248 $ 1,129 Season 2 $ 2161 £ 1149 $ 1,922 € 1308 ₪ 5345 ¥ 199234 NZ$ 2354 NOK 15774 kr 15509 $ 1,429 $ 1872 £ 996 $ 1,665 € 1133 ₪ 4630 ¥ 172578 NZ$ 2039 NOK 13664 kr 13434 $ 1,238 Season 3 $ 2285 £ 1215 $ 2,032 € 1383 ₪ 5651 ¥ 210658 NZ$ 2489 NOK 16678 kr 16398 $ 1,511 $ 1996 £ 1062 $ 1,775 € 1208 ₪ 4936 ¥ 184002 NZ$ 2174 NOK 14568 kr 14323 $ 1,320 Single supplement $ 659 £ 351 $ 586 € 399 ₪ 1630 ¥ 60776 NZ$ 718 NOK 4812 kr 4731 $ 436 $ 527 £ 280 $ 469 € 319 ₪ 1304 ¥ 48590 NZ$ 574 NOK 3847 kr 3782 $ 349 Half-board (8 three-course dinners excluding Vienna) $ 453 £ 241 $ 403 € 274 ₪ 1120 ¥ 41736 NZ$ 493 NOK 3304 kr 3249 $ 299 $ 420 £ 223 $ 373 € 254 ₪ 1038 ¥ 38689 NZ$ 457 NOK 3063 kr 3012 $ 278 Bike supplements
Premium rental bike $ 109 £ 58 $ 97 € 66 ₪ 270 ¥ 10053 NZ$ 119 NOK 796 kr 783 $ 72 Electric bike $ 248 £ 132 $ 220 € 150 ₪ 613 ¥ 22848 NZ$ 270 NOK 1809 kr 1779 $ 164 Season 1 $ 1178 £ 627 $ 1,048 € 713 ₪ 2914 ¥ 108604 NZ$ 1283 NOK 8599 kr 8454 $ 779 Season 2 $ 1294 £ 688 $ 1,151 € 783 ₪ 3200 ¥ 119266 NZ$ 1409 NOK 9443 kr 9284 $ 855 Season 3 $ 1418 £ 754 $ 1,261 € 858 ₪ 3506 ¥ 130690 NZ$ 1544 NOK 10347 kr 10173 $ 937 Single supplement $ 370 £ 197 $ 329 € 224 ₪ 915 ¥ 34120 NZ$ 403 NOK 2701 kr 2656 $ 245 Half-board (4 three-course dinners excluding Vienna) $ 213 £ 113 $ 190 € 129 ₪ 527 ¥ 19649 NZ$ 232 NOK 1556 kr 1530 $ 141 Bike supplements
Premium rental bike $ 91 £ 48 $ 81 € 55 ₪ 225 ¥ 8378 NZ$ 99 NOK 663 kr 652 $ 60 Electric bike $ 215 £ 114 $ 191 € 130 ₪ 531 ¥ 19802 NZ$ 234 NOK 1568 kr 1541 $ 142 Road bike $ 215 £ 114 $ 191 € 130 ₪ 531 ¥ 19802 NZ$ 234 NOK 1568 kr 1541 $ 142 9 days/8 nights (Charm accommodations)
Season 1 $ 2161 £ 1149 $ 1,922 € 1308 ₪ 5345 ¥ 199234 NZ$ 2354 NOK 15774 kr 15509 $ 1,429 Season 2 $ 2318 £ 1233 $ 2,062 € 1403 ₪ 5733 ¥ 213705 NZ$ 2525 NOK 16920 kr 16635 $ 1,533 Season 3 $ 2442 £ 1299 $ 2,172 € 1478 ₪ 6040 ¥ 225129 NZ$ 2660 NOK 17824 kr 17524 $ 1,615 Single supplement $ 816 £ 434 $ 726 € 494 ₪ 2019 ¥ 75246 NZ$ 889 NOK 5957 kr 5857 $ 540 Half-board (6 three-course dinners excluding Linz & Vienna) $ 370 £ 197 $ 329 € 224 ₪ 915 ¥ 34120 NZ$ 403 NOK 2701 kr 2656 $ 245 Bike supplements
Premium rental bike $ 107 £ 57 $ 96 € 65 ₪ 266 ¥ 9901 NZ$ 117 NOK 784 kr 771 $ 71 Electric bike $ 240 £ 127 $ 213 € 145 ₪ 593 ¥ 22086 NZ$ 261 NOK 1749 kr 1719 $ 158 Season 1 $ 1608 £ 855 $ 1,430 € 973 ₪ 3976 ¥ 148207 NZ$ 1751 NOK 11734 kr 11537 $ 1,063 Season 2 $ 1740 £ 925 $ 1,547 € 1053 ₪ 4303 ¥ 160393 NZ$ 1895 NOK 12699 kr 12485 $ 1,150 Season 3 $ 1872 £ 996 $ 1,665 € 1133 ₪ 4630 ¥ 172578 NZ$ 2039 NOK 13664 kr 13434 $ 1,238 Single supplement $ 428 £ 228 $ 381 € 259 ₪ 1058 ¥ 39451 NZ$ 466 NOK 3123 kr 3071 $ 283 Half-board (6 three-course dinners excluding Vienna) $ 304 £ 162 $ 270 € 184 ₪ 752 ¥ 28027 NZ$ 331 NOK 2219 kr 2182 $ 201 Bike supplements
Premium rental bike $ 99 £ 53 $ 88 € 60 ₪ 245 ¥ 9139 NZ$ 108 NOK 724 kr 711 $ 66 Electric bike $ 231 £ 123 $ 206 € 140 ₪ 572 ¥ 21325 NZ$ 252 NOK 1688 kr 1660 $ 153 Child bike/child trailer (discount) $ 17 £ 9 $ 15 € 10 ₪ 41 ¥ 1523 NZ$ 18 NOK 121 kr 119 $ 11 Follow-me tandem $ 66 £ 35 $ 59 € 40 ₪ 163 ¥ 6093 NZ$ 72 NOK 482 kr 474 $ 44 Child seat (discount) $ 106 £ 56 $ 94 € 64 ₪ 262 ¥ 9748 NZ$ 115 NOK 772 kr 759 $ 70 Tandem rental for adults $ 281 £ 149 $ 250 € 170 ₪ 695 ¥ 25894 NZ$ 306 NOK 2050 kr 2016 $ 186 Extra Options
Extra Nights
Passau
Category A Category B Twin/double $ 139 £ 74 $ 123 € 84 ₪ 343 ¥ 12795 NZ$ 151 NOK 1013 kr 996 $ 92 $ 122 £ 65 $ 109 € 74 ₪ 302 ¥ 11272 NZ$ 133 NOK 892 kr 877 $ 81 Single $ 230 £ 122 $ 204 € 139 ₪ 568 ¥ 21172 NZ$ 250 NOK 1676 kr 1648 $ 152 $ 180 £ 96 $ 160 € 109 ₪ 445 ¥ 16603 NZ$ 196 NOK 1314 kr 1292 $ 119 Vienna
Category A Category B Twin/double $ 155 £ 83 $ 138 € 94 ₪ 384 ¥ 14318 NZ$ 169 NOK 1134 kr 1115 $ 103 $ 131 £ 69 $ 116 € 79 ₪ 323 ¥ 12033 NZ$ 142 NOK 953 kr 937 $ 86 Single $ 246 £ 131 $ 219 € 149 ₪ 609 ¥ 22696 NZ$ 268 NOK 1797 kr 1767 $ 163 $ 213 £ 113 $ 190 € 129 ₪ 527 ¥ 19649 NZ$ 232 NOK 1556 kr 1530 $ 141 Private Transfer Vienna to Passau*
Not including own bicycles $ 124 £ 66 $ 110 € 75 ₪ 306 ¥ 11424 NZ$ 135 NOK 904 kr 889 $ 82 Including own bicycles $ 172 £ 91 $ 153 € 104 ₪ 425 ¥ 15841 NZ$ 187 NOK 1254 kr 1233 $ 114
*Transfer takes around 3.5 to 4 hours.
Child discounts (in same room with 2 full-paying adults):
0-5 years: 100 % of base price
6-11 years: 50 % of base price
12-14 years: 25 % of base price
15-17 years: 10 % of base priceExtra Info
Skill Level — Easy
The Danube Cycle Path is rated as easy. The path is flat, almost always, directly along the riverbank and very well marked throughout, making it very suitable for families, beginners, or regular cyclists looking to combine easy riding with wonderful scenery. The trail is signposted, wonderfully designed, and very well maintained. Most of the trail is asphalted and the country roads that are included are roads with light traffic. Of course, when entering and exiting towns and cities, you will share the road.
Airport Info
The closest international airport to your tour start in Passau, is Munich (MUC). However closest international airport to the end of your tour, in Vienna, is Vienna International Airport (VIE). If you want to fly into and out of the same airport you can plan for your arrival and departure from Vienna International Airport. Otherwise, you may arrive to Munich, and depart from Vienna. Transfers from Vienna to Passau are available.
Local Travel
From Munich Airport, to arrive to Passau, you must take a bus to Freising train station (approximately €2). It’s also possible to take a taxi from the Airport to Freising Station (approximately €25). From Freising, continue by train to Passau. The train ride is approx. 2 to 2½ hours (depending on connections) and costs €30 to €45 depending on type of train.
At the end of your tour, the Vienna Airport is easily accessible from the main train station by CAT ( city airport train), travel time is 16 minutes. In fact, you can actually check-in for your flight at Vienna Mitte train station.
If you are arriving in Vienna and need to travel to Passau for your tour start, again train travel from the airport to the city center is very convenient and from Wien HBF (main train station) trains to Passau are approximately two hours and 16 minutes travel time.
Climate
The region has a moderate maritime climate, generally experiencing pleasantly mild winters and relatively cool summers. Please check local conditions prior to your departure and remember that your tour will stretch along the Danube from Passau to Vienna so check different locations along the route for a good overall picture. See below for average temperatures and rainfall.
Important to know
DOCUMENTS
Before you travel, please check the passport and visa requirements of the country/countries you plan to visit. For US citizens, the US Department of State website is a good source of information. The Country Information tab in the International Travel section provides details about passport validity, blank passport pages required, etc.
For our other international clients, please be sure that you research your own country's travel requirements. It is each traveler's responsibility to ensure proper documentation.
*Important note: Please check the status of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) as once implemented, will be required to visit any of the 26 Schengen-member countries for tourism, business, medical, or transit.
Covid-19 Info
Country Entry Requirements
Due to the changing requirements for entry, it is imperative that you stay up to date on requirements set by the country/countries that you are visiting. Please visit our Travel Restrictions Tool page and the country/countries government webpage for this information.
Tour Operator
This tour is run by Radreisefreunde GmbH.
We value the strong relationship we have with our local partners and the services we provide.
We are not a broker.
We do not inflate tour prices.
We are simply travelers helping travelers.Would you like to learn more About Us? How about What Makes Us Different than other companies?
Photos
![Danube River flowing through Dürnstein, a popular wine-growing town in the Wachau region. Flickr:jay8085]()
![Bike rest overlooking the Danube River Path in Austria.]()
![Natural History Museum in Vienna, Austria. Flickr:Mend-hak]()
![Belvedere Castle in Vienna, Austria. Flickr:Miguel Mendez]()
![An Austrian alley. Unsplash:randomperson666]()
![Danube River and vineyards in Durnstein, Wachau Valley, Austria. Flickr:Don Heffernan]()
![Sightseeing in Dürnstein, Austria. Flickr:jay8085]()
![Schnitzel mit Speigelei, a favorite. Flickr:Thomas Kohler]()
![Biking in Krems along the Danube River, Lower Austria. Photo by Gregor Semrad]()
![Enjoying a bike ride through the medieval streets of Austria on the Danube Bike Tour.]()
![The famous Danube loop Schlögen in the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.]()
![Melk, Austria. Unsplash:Reese Harvey]()
![Old Town in Bratislava, Slovakia (optional extension). CC:Rob Hurson]()
![Panorama of Passau, Bavaria, Germany. Flickr:Brian Burger]()
![Passau, Germany. Unsplash:Yves Cedric Schulze]()
![Souvenirs in Vienna, Austria. Flickr:Patricia Feaster]()
![Walking through Dürnstein, Wachau, Austria. Flickr:Jeff Owen Photos]()
![Vineyards in Dürnstein, Wachau, Austria. Flickr:Brynjar Viggosson]()
![Dürnstein along the Danube River in Austria. Flickr:Muppets Panker]()
![]()
![The Benedictine Abbey in Melk, Austria. Flickr:Nigel Swales]()
![Sacher Torte cake in Vienna, Austria. Flickr:Kelly Schott]()
![Melk as viewed from the Abbey in Lower Austria. Flickr:Kevin Jones]()
![Vienna, Austria. Unsplash:Anton]()
![Statue of Johann Strauss in Vienna, Austria. Flickr:Kiefer]()
![Melk Abbey in Austria. Flickr:Nigel Swales]()
![The "three river city" of Passau in Lower Bavaria, Germany. Flickr:sugarbear96]()
![Vienna, Austria. Unsplash:Victor Malyushev]()
![Summer residence of the Hapsburgs was Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria. Flickr:r chelseth]()
![Wine tasting in the famous wine region of the Wachau Valley, Austria. ©TO]()
![Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte in Vienna, Austria. Flickr:Raphael Labbe]()
![Melk Abbey, a Baroque Benedictine Monastery, in Lower Austria. Flickr:Daniel Stockman]()
![Summer residence of the Hapsburgs was Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna, Austria. Flickr:r chelseth]()
![Bike rest in Krems, Austria. Flickr:Mikel Ortega]()
![Wachau Valley region along the Danube River, Austria. Flickr:Mikel Ortega]()
![Perhaps an excursion to Bratislava in Slovakia. CC:Thomas Ledl]()
![Cheese treat in Vienna, Austria. Flickr:AwaraDiaries]()
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