What are self-guided cycling tours?

Self-guided cycling tours provide a personalized and flexible approach to cycling holidays. You can explore at your own pace and adapt your route or schedule as you see fit. Our team arranges all details, such as logistics , accommodations , detailed itineraries , GPS routes , and 24/7 support . Thus, you can enjoy a stress-free, immersive experience that offers independence, customization, and authentic encounters with local culture.

How demanding are your tours?

Our tours are rated on a difficulty scale from 1 to 5 t o help you choose the right adventure: 1/5 – Short daily distances of approximately 30 km . Easy, flat terrain suitable for everyone, including those with no prior sports experience. 2/5 – Daily distances up to 40 km . Some light uphill sections, up to 200 m , but not every day. Suitable for anyone in good health. 3/5 – Daily distances around 50 km . Daily altitude gains of up to 500 m . On days with less altitude, distances may be longer. Ideal for recreational cyclists in good physical condition. 4/5 – Daily distances of 60 km or more . Daily altitude gains of 5 00 m or more , with some stages reaching up to 1000 m . Designed for well-prepared amateur cyclists who are comfortable with uphill riding. 5/5 – Challenging stages with steep climbs and long distances . Suitable for experienced road cyclists seeking a demanding adventure along with breathtaking scenery.

Why aren't accommodations specified?

We continuously strive to find the perfect fit for you. We work with multiple accommodation providers that meet our standards, but their availability can vary, especially during peak season. We can also tailor your holiday according to your preferences and budget , ensuring we find the most suitable solution for your taste.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking as early as possible . Many of our tours pass through popular tourist destinations with limited accommodation options. The best-selling tours are often fully booked for the summer before spring arrives.

What if I have dietary restrictions?

The ease of accommodating dietary restrictions depends on their severity. Vegetarian options are usual in Austria, but vegan dishes can be challenging in rural areas or smaller towns. Please note that lunch stops are often at traditional establishments that may struggle to cater to special requests outside their standard menu. Keep this in mind during your trip.

What's the best season for cycling in Austria?

Generally, late spring (May) and early autumn (September) are the ideal times for cycling, depending on the tour. Summer is also a fantastic choice because Austria has a milder climate, especially in the Alps.

What if the weather forecast is unfavorable?

Most tours can proceed even in light rain, provided you dress appropriately . Afternoon thunderstorms are common in the peak months of summer, so early starts are recommended. If the weather appears to be particularly unfavorable, we can adjust the tour beforehand . You will be in contact with our support in case last-minute changes are necessary.

What kind of bicycle is the best for your tours?

Our tours cater to different cycling preferences, whether you prefer road , gravel , or mountain biking . Our cycling experts will consider your experience, preferences, and group dynamics to provide tailored recommendations . Additionally, e-bikes are always an option. If there’s a significant difference in fitness levels among group members, some can choose an e-bike while others opt for a regular bike. The most versatile option is a gravel bike , even if you are coming on a road cycling holiday. Gravel bikes maintain excellent road performance while allowing you to explore scenic backroads that may be less maintained than main routes. They also tend to offer greater comfort, enhancing your overall experience.

Do you offer bike rentals?

If you’re not bringing your own bike and equipment, we can arrange a rental for you. We offer a wide range of bikes, including road , gravel , mountain bikes , and e-bikes , to suit your tour needs. Simply provide us with your usual bike size and any specific preferences, and we’ll ensure you have the perfect bike for a comfortable ride. Our bike rentals include the agreed-upon bike, delivery before your tour, and pickup afterward. Additional equipment is also provided, such as a helmet , an extra chain , a basic repair kit , and pedals if needed.

How do I reach the starting points of my holidays?

We always pick locations and starting points which are reachable by public transport . Our travel agent will extensively advise you on the most optimal option.

What if I encounter any issues on the way?

All our tours take place in well-developed areas, ensuring you are always close to essential infrastructure and never isolated. Additionally, our agent is available by phone every day to assist with any emergencies. Your travel materials will also include a list of bike repair workshops with contact information, so you can easily access expert assistance for issues like flat tires and other repairs.

When is the luggage picked up, and when is it delivered?

Each morning, you will leave your luggage at the hotel reception, where it will be collected by our taxi service and delivered to your next hotel. Your luggage will typically arrive by late morning or early afternoon . For your convenience, your travel materials will include the contact details and schedules of the taxi services handling the transportation.

Are these tours suitable for children?

Most of our tours are recommended for individuals aged 12 and older who have some cycling experience. However, the Drau Cycle Path is a family-friendly option , as it features mostly flat terrain and dedicated cycling paths away from main roads. That said, younger participants should be confident cyclists, and parents are encouraged to assess whether this tour is suitable for their family.

Will there be safe bike storage at each accommodation?

Yes, every accommodation on your tour is bike-friendly and offers secure storage for your bike.

How does luggage transfer work?

On cycling trips, luggage transfer allows you to ride without carrying heavy bags. Each morning, you leave your luggage at the designated spot—often the hotel reception—and it’s transported to your next overnight stop. Your bags are usually waiting for you when you arrive. Weight limits and pickup times can vary slightly depending on the service provider.

Do you transfer bikes too? How does it work?

Yes, bike transfers are often available when needed—such as before, after, or during your trip. Bikes are typically transported in secure vehicles or trailers designed for bicycles. You may need to notify the provider in advance, and some services require the bike to be clean or partially disassembled. Exact procedures vary depending on location and logistics.

Must-See Places on a Cycling Holiday in Austria

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From Danube vineyards to Alpine passes, cycling in Austria connects you with its most iconic cities, villages, and landscapes along the way.

Austria is more than just mountains and lakes—it’s a country filled with imperial cities, storybook villages, and landscapes made for cycling. Each stop along the way offers a mix of history, culture, and scenery that turns a bike trip into an unforgettable journey.

From the elegance of Vienna to the lakes of Salzburg and the vineyard trails of the Wachau Valley, these are the places that every cyclist should have on their list.

From city boulevards to vineyard valleys, Austria’s classics belong on every cyclist’s list

Vienna – Imperial City & Riverside Cycling

Vienna is Austria’s cultural heart, where grand imperial landmarks sit alongside parks, riverside paths, and well-marked city bike lanes. It’s an easy place to combine museum visits with relaxed rides, and a practical starting point for longer routes along the Danube.

Expect short distances between sights, plenty of bike parking, and cafés for unhurried breaks between pedaling.

Hofburg Palace

Once the winter residence of the Habsburgs, the Hofburg is a vast complex of courtyards, chapels, and museums in the very center of the city. Highlights include the Imperial Apartments, the Sisi Museum, and the Spanish Riding School. Broad pedestrian zones and nearby cycle lanes make it simple to roll up, lock your bike, and explore on foot. It’s a compact way to absorb centuries of imperial history without criss-crossing town.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Vienna’s Gothic landmark anchors the old town with its patterned roof and soaring south tower. Inside, stone vaults, side chapels, and historic artworks give a quick but powerful snapshot of medieval Vienna. Climbs to the tower (or a visit to the cathedral treasury) offer a worthwhile pause in the middle of a ride. Bike stands and pedestrianized streets nearby make short stops straightforward.

Ringstrasse Boulevard

This 19th-century boulevard circles the historic center, replacing the former city walls with a 5 kilometer showcase of the Opera, Parliament, City Hall, and grand museums. Dedicated lanes and clear signage make it an ideal orientation loop on day one. Many riders use the Ringstrasse as a calm, scenic connector between sights and parks—an urban circuit that feels purpose-built for cyclists.

Danube Island

A 21-kilometer-long green strip in the middle of the river, Donauinsel is fully car-free and flat—excellent for families, casual riders, and easy mileage days. You’ll find long, uninterrupted stretches for steady pedaling, plus swimming spots, playgrounds, and seasonal kiosks. The island connects smoothly to city bike lanes and the Danube Cycle Path. Expect wide paths, open views, and plenty of places to pause without leaving the route.

Vienna also features on our Danube Cycle Path: Passau to Vienna and Danube Cycle Path: Vienna to Budapest tours, giving you the chance to explore the capital as part of a longer ride.

Salzburg – Mozart Heritage & Gateway to the Lakes

Salzburg blends baroque charm with easy access to the Alps and lake country, making it one of Austria’s most rewarding cycling bases.

The old town is compact, riverside paths run right through the city, and within a few kilometers you’re pedaling past lakes, forests, and mountain views. A Salzburg bike tour works equally well for history lovers, casual riders, and anyone looking to mix culture with scenery.

Hohensalzburg Fortress

Perched high above the city, this 11th-century castle dominates the skyline and offers sweeping views of the Alps. It’s one of the largest fully preserved medieval castles in Europe and tells the story of Salzburg’s strategic past. While the climb is steep on foot, cyclists enjoy its presence as a dramatic backdrop from nearly every angle in town.

Getreidegasse & Mozart’s Birthplace

Salzburg’s most famous shopping street is lined with narrow lanes, ornate guild signs, and colorful baroque facades. At No. 9 stands Mozart’s birthplace, now a museum filled with artifacts from his early life. Stopping here adds a dose of culture to a ride through the bustling UNESCO-listed old town.

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

Built in the 17th century, Mirabell is known for its symmetrical gardens, mythological statues, and elegant fountains. The palace and grounds are free to enter, making it a practical sightseeing stop during a cycling day. For many, it’s a quiet green break before heading out toward Salzburg’s lake country.

Salzkammergut Lakes

Wolfgangsee, Mondsee, and Fuschlsee are just beyond the city, all accessible by well-marked cycling paths. These lakes combine gentle shoreline trails with opportunities to swim, take a ferry, or visit small villages. Together, they make Salzburg a natural gateway to the famous Salzkammergut region.

Salzburg features on our Alpe-Adria Cycle Path, Salzkammergut Lakes, and Tauern tours, each giving you a chance to pair the city with stunning alpine scenery.

Wachau Valley – Vineyards & Danube Culture

The Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s most celebrated cycling regions, stretching between Melk and Krems along the Danube.

Terraced vineyards, medieval towns, and river views make it a UNESCO World Heritage landscape that balances culture with scenery. Gentle gradients and well-marked trails make it ideal for leisure riders while still rewarding for those on longer tours.

Melk Abbey

This baroque masterpiece dominates the western entrance to the Wachau with its golden halls and riverside terraces. Inside, highlights include the vast library and frescoed church, while outside the gardens overlook the valley. Cyclists often pause here as a cultural starting point before following the Danube eastward.

Dürnstein Castle Ruins

The ruins of Dürnstein Castle are best known as the prison of Richard the Lionheart in the 12th century. A short but steep climb leads to a panoramic view of the Danube, vineyards, and tiled rooftops below. The village itself, with its blue abbey tower, is one of the most photographed stops on the route.

Spitz & White Church

These two villages embody the Wachau’s wine culture, with terraced hillsides producing some of Austria’s best Grüner Veltliner. Narrow lanes lead past parish churches, traditional taverns, and small family-run cellars. Stopping here offers both a cultural experience and a chance to sample local wines before continuing.

Danube Cycle Path

The Donauradweg is one of Europe’s best-known long-distance routes, and the Wachau section is often considered its highlight. Flat, car-free paths hug the river, passing orchards, abbeys, and small villages at a relaxed pace. For many, this stretch defines what a scenic bike tour Austria is all about.

The Wachau Valley is part of our Passau to Vienna and Vienna to Budapest tours, where vineyard landscapes and riverside paths frame some of Austria’s most scenic cycling.

Tyrol & the Alps – High Mountain Scenery

Tyrol is Austria’s alpine playground, offering cyclists everything from quiet valley trails to legendary climbs that test stamina. It’s best suited to riders seeking mountain views, challenging ascents, and alpine culture, though families can also enjoy the flatter valley routes.

Expect glaciers on the horizon, traditional villages along the roads, and a mix of cycling options that make this region unforgettable.

Innsbruck & Nordkette

Innsbruck, the “Capital of the Alps,” blends a medieval old town with direct access to high mountain trails. The Nordkette cable car carries visitors from the city center straight to alpine panoramas in under 20 minutes. For cyclists, Innsbruck is both a cultural stop and a launchpad for exploring valleys and climbs.

Zillertal Valley

This broad valley is ideal for varied cycling, with the Zillertal Radweg offering a family-friendly riverside route. For more ambitious riders, climbs lead toward the Hintertux Glacier and surrounding passes. It’s one of the most versatile bases for combining leisure cycling with alpine challenges.

Ötztal & Stubai Valleys

These valleys are known for steep roads, high passes, and events like the Ötztaler Radmarathon, one of Europe’s toughest amateur races. The routes thread through villages, waterfalls, and mountain forests before opening to panoramic ridges. They are a natural choice for cyclists looking to push their limits while taking in Tyrol’s landscapes.

Grossglockner Pass

At 2,504 meters, this is Austria’s most famous climb—an engineering marvel that winds through the Hohe Tauern National Park For ambitious riders, this road is Austria’s most legendary climb. Winding toward the country’s highest peak, it offers 36 hairpin bends, challenging gradients, and breathtaking views at every turn. Even if you’re not chasing elevation, the road itself is a symbol of Austrian engineering and alpine heritage, making it one of the country’s great landmarks.

Tyrol’s alpine scenery can be experienced on our Inn Cycle Path and Innsbruck to Bolzano tours, combining high-mountain landscapes with well-planned routes through the valleys.

Salzkammergut – Austria’s Lake District

The Salzkammergut is Austria’s picture-perfect lake region, where shimmering waters meet dramatic limestone peaks and historic villages.

It’s an excellent choice for cyclists who enjoy gentle shoreline rides with the option to tackle short climbs for sweeping views. The variety of routes makes it equally appealing for families, leisure riders, and those seeking a mix of culture and scenery.

Hallstatt

Often described as Austria’s most beautiful village, Hallstatt is set between a glassy lake and steep mountain slopes. Wooden houses and centuries of salt-mining history add to its charm, while panoramic viewpoints overlook the entire UNESCO-listed landscape. It’s part of the Salzkammergut Lake District, a favorite on many of our Austria cycling holidays, and one of the country’s most photographed spots.

Wolfgangsee Lake

This popular lake combines flat cycling trails, ferry services, and lively towns like St. Gilgen and St. Wolfgang. The water is crystal clear, making it perfect for a swim after a day’s ride. Its mix of activity and relaxation has long made it a highlight of tours in the region.

Mondsee & Fuschlsee Lakes

Close to Salzburg, these lakes offer shorter, quieter rides with plenty of cultural stops. Mondsee is home to the basilica featured in The Sound of Music, while Fuschlsee is surrounded by forests and quiet paths. Together they provide a more intimate cycling experience compared to the larger lakes.

Traunsee Lake

Traunsee is known for its steep cliffs that drop directly into the water, creating one of Austria’s most dramatic lake landscapes. The lakeside town of Gmunden adds cultural flair with its floating castle and historic villas. Cycling here blends rugged scenery with architectural charm in a single loop.

The Salzkammergut is featured on our Salzkammergut Lakes and Alpe-Adria tours, combining sparkling lakeside rides with easy access to Salzburg’s cultural highlights.

Carinthia – Warm Lakes & Southern Charm

Carinthia, Austria’s sunny south, offers a warmer, more Mediterranean feel compared to the alpine north. It’s perfect for cyclists who enjoy leisurely rides, swimming stops, and plenty of sunshine well into autumn. Expect turquoise lakes, laid-back towns, and cycling routes that combine outdoor activity with a holiday atmosphere.

Lake Wörthersee

The largest and best-known lake in Carinthia, Wörthersee is framed by lively resorts like Velden and Pörtschach. Cycling paths circle much of the shoreline, offering flat, scenic routes with frequent places to pause. Its warm waters make it one of the best spots to pair riding with a refreshing swim.

Klagenfurt

At the eastern tip of Wörthersee, Klagenfurt mixes Renaissance squares, colorful facades, and relaxed cafés. The city makes a practical base for cyclists with easy connections into both urban and lakeside trails. Its slower pace contrasts nicely with Austria’s larger cities.

Lake Ossiach & Millstätter See

These smaller lakes are loved for their quiet paths and cultural flavor. Ossiach is home to a medieval abbey that now hosts summer music festivals, while Millstätter See offers panoramic viewpoints and calm swimming spots. Both are excellent alternatives for cyclists looking to avoid busier resort areas.

Drau Valley

The Drauradweg long-distance trail runs through Carinthia, linking Austria with Italy and Slovenia. This section of the route follows the Drau River past meadows, forests, and small towns, with gentle gradients suitable for all levels. It’s one of the best ways to experience Carinthia’s landscapes on a multi-day Austrian bike tour.

Carinthia’s sunny south is featured on our Carinthian Lakes and Drau Cycle Path tours, where relaxed rides meet warm swimming lakes and a laid-back holiday vibe.

Hidden Gems – Off-the-Beaten Path Highlights

Beyond Austria’s big names like Vienna, Salzburg, and the Wachau Valley, there are countless smaller places that make a bike trip in Austria feel truly unique.

These hidden gems are perfect for cyclists who prefer quiet routes, authentic towns, and unexpected cultural treasures. Expect fewer crowds, stunning scenery, and a sense of discovery that makes your Austrian cycling trip unforgettable.

Lake Neusiedl

Austria’s largest lake lies on the border with Hungary, surrounded by vineyards, reed beds, and steppe landscapes. The flat terrain makes it perfect for families and casual cyclists, while the microclimate brings over 2,000 hours of sunshine per year. Stops along the route include wine villages, historic castles, and birdwatching points in a UNESCO biosphere reserve, making this a wonderfully diverse ride.

Lake Zell am See

Nestled beside a deep-blue lake and framed by the Hohe Tauern mountains, Zell am See is one of Austria’s most scenic cycling bases. Riders can circle the lake on gentle paths or climb nearby roads for alpine views. With a glacier in sight and plenty of lakeside cafés, it’s a spot that combines adventure with relaxation.

Eisenstadt

As the small capital of Burgenland, Eisenstadt is best known for Esterházy Palace and its connection to composer Joseph Haydn. Cyclists on a cultural Austria bike tour will enjoy its compact old town and vineyard surroundings. It’s a quiet but rewarding stop for those seeking history off the main tourist trail.

Gailtal Valley

Tucked away in southern Carinthia, the Gailtal Valley is a pastoral landscape of meadows, alpine farms, and quiet roads. The riding here is peaceful, with routes linking villages and mountain viewpoints. For cyclists looking for a slow-paced, authentic slice of Austria, this valley is a hidden treasure.

Riegersburg Castle

Rising dramatically on a volcanic hill, Riegersburg Castle overlooks the wine country of southeastern Styria. The climb to the fortress is steep but rewarding, offering both a workout and a taste of medieval history. Surrounding trails wind through vineyards, making it a must for cyclists who enjoy combining culture, scenery, and local wine.

Discover Something New Everyday

Austria is a country where every ride brings something new—imperial cities, vineyard valleys, shimmering lakes, and mountain roads that challenge and inspire. From must-see highlights to hidden gems, it’s a destination that rewards both casual riders and serious cyclists.

Casual spin or challenging climb—Austria’s landscapes turn every ride into discovery

Whether you’re planning a Wachau valley tour, a lakeside escape in Salzburg, or mountain biking in Austria’s Alps, there’s no shortage of unforgettable routes.

Ready to start your journey? We’ll help you plan the perfect Austria cycling trip tailored to your interests.

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Must-See Places on a Cycling Holiday in Austria

From Danube vineyards to Alpine passes, cycling in Austria connects you with its most iconic cities, villages, and landscapes along the way.

Quick links

Vienna – Imperial City & Riverside Cycling

Salzburg – Mozart Heritage & Gateway to the Lakes

Wachau Valley – Vineyards & Danube Culture

Tyrol & the Alps – High Mountain Scenery

Salzkammergut – Austria’s Lake District

Carinthia – Warm Lakes & Southern Charm

Hidden Gems – Off-the-Beaten Path Highlights

Discover Something New Everyday

HANDPICKED ADVENTURES

SELF-GUIDED TRAVEL

VALUE YOUR TIME

TRUSTED BY MANY

Have questions? Talk to us.