Danube Cycle Path: Passau to Vienna

Begin your adventure in Passau (Germany), a picturesque town situated at the confluence of three rivers: the Danube, Inn, and Ilz. After checking into your hotel, spend the day exploring the town’s historic sites, including the medieval Fortress “Veste Oberhaus” and its observation tower, offering stunning views of the town and rivers, and St. Stephens Cathedral, home to the world’s largest church organ.

You will ride through the Upper Danube Valley towards Aschach, following the river’s scenic path. You will pass through Engelhartszell, a quaint Austrian border town where you can explore the country’s only Trappist monastery. The journey will take you through the remarkable Schlögener Schlinge, where the Danube carves a dramatic loop through the surrounding hills. Aschach will await you at the end of the route, a charming riverside town on the edge of the expansive Eferdinger Basin.

You will travel along the southern bank of the Danube, passing through the fertile landscapes of the Eferding Basin. Your route will take you to Wilhering, with its stunning Baroque monastery. Continuing onward, you will arrive in Linz, the capital of Upper Austria. You might admire the illuminated Lentos Art Museum or wander through the historic main square. From there, your journey will lead you past medieval castles and along the scenic Linzer Pforte before reaching Enns, Austria’s oldest town, renowned for its iconic medieval tower and beautifully preserved Renaissance and Baroque architecture.

You will set off from Enns and ride through the fertile plains of the Machland region. The route will provide opportunities to explore the reconstructed Celtic village of Mitterkirchen or admire the impressive church in Baumgartenberg. As you continue, you will pass through the historic town of Grein, home to Austria’s oldest operating theater and the striking Clam Castle nearby. The path will lead you into the rugged beauty of the Strudengau Valley. Eventually, you will reach the Nibelungengau area, with Marbach an der Donau offering a conclusion to your day.

You will leave Marbach an der Donau and cycle through the picturesque landscapes of the Nibelungengau, passing the towering pilgrimage church of Maria Taferl perched high above the river. Your journey will bring you to Melk, renowned for its grand Baroque abbey, where you can explore the museum and stroll through the ornate gardens. From Melk, the route will guide you into the enchanting Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site dotted with charming wine villages, ancient castles, and fortified churches. Finally, you will arrive in Krems an der Donau, a 1,000-year-old town.

You will set off from Krems an der Donau and ride through the stunning Wachau region, where terraced vineyards, apricot orchards, and charming villages line the riverbanks. As you leave Wachau behind, the landscape transitions into the tranquil Donauauen. Here, the Danube flows through peaceful wetlands and lush greenery. Your journey will conclude in Tulln an der Donau, famously known as the “City of Flowers.” While in Tulln, you may visit the Egon Schiele Museum, dedicated to the renowned artist born here.

You will leave Tulln an der Donau, cycling past Greifenstein’s historic castle and Klosterneuburg’s impressive Baroque monastery. Arriving in Vienna, the vibrant capital, you can explore landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, or the lively Naschmarkt. Enjoy a slice of Sachertorte at a classic Viennese café or take in city views from the iconic Riesenrad Ferris wheel, marking a memorable end to your journey.

After breakfast, your trip concludes. Spend time exploring Vienna’s famous sites, such as the ‘Naschmarkt,’ City Opera, Ringstrasse, and the imperial castle Schönbrunn. The Kunsthistorisches Museum is also highly recommended. If you wish to extend your stay, we can assist with additional night bookings.