Danube Cycle Path: Vienna to Budapest

You will arrive in Vienna, Austria’s imperial capital. After checking into your hotel, you will have the chance to explore some of the city’s renowned landmarks. St. Stephen’s Cathedral, with its stunning Gothic architecture, will stand at the heart of your discovery. The Hofburg Palace, the former residence of the Habsburgs, will offer insights into imperial history. In the evening, you might experience the charm of a traditional Viennese café, enjoying a cup of coffee paired with the famous Sachertorte.

You will cycle from Vienna through the Donau-Auen National Park, home to diverse wildlife and scenic river landscapes. Along the way, you will pass Orth Castle and the village of Eckertsau before reaching Bad Deutsch Altenburg, known for its Roman heritage. Here, you may visit Carnuntum, an archaeological park with reconstructed Roman ruins. Continuing past Hainburg’s medieval walls, you will cross into Slovakia and arrive in Bratislava, where you will stay overnight. Highlights of the city include Bratislava Castle and the charming old town.

You will cycle a short distance through Slovakia before crossing the border into Hungary at Rajka. The route will take you through rural landscapes dotted with charming villages, reflecting the region’s strong agricultural character. As you ride through the Szigetköz, also known as the “Little Rye Island,” you will encounter a network of Danube side arms and tranquil waterways. Your destination for the day is Mosonmagyaróvár, often called the “City of 17 Bridges,” known for its historic charm and vibrant town center.

You will continue cycling through the natural landscapes of the Szigetköz, a region known for its peaceful waterways and lush greenery. Along the way, you will pass through Hédervár, where you can stop for a break and explore the castle set within a beautifully preserved park. As you approach Győr, the district capital, you will find a city rich in history with a well-preserved baroque old town, notable churches, and charming squares, making it an ideal place to spend your evening.

You will cycle along a newly-built path alongside the Danube, offering views of the river’s surrounding greenery. The route passes through quiet villages with traditional architecture. Before reaching Komárom, you may stop at Fort Monostor, a 19th-century military stronghold known for its vast network of underground passages and exhibitions on the area’s military history. In Komárom, you can unwind in the thermal baths, renowned for their mineral-rich waters, or explore the town’s divided heritage, with Hungarian and Slovak influences evident in its architecture and cuisine.

You will cycle through the flat Danube Valley, following quiet roads near the riverbanks. Along the way, you will pass small villages surrounded by vineyards and farmland. History enthusiasts may stop at the Roman fort of Kelemantia, a fascinating archaeological site that showcases ancient Roman military architecture. Your day will culminate in Esztergom, often referred to as “Hungarian Rome” for its historical and religious significance. The highlight of the day is the Esztergom Basilica, Hungary’s largest church, with its stunning neoclassical dome and panoramic views over the Danube.

Today’s route will guide you through the scenic Danube Bend, often considered one of the most picturesque sections of the river. You will pass through rolling hills and villages. Along the way, you can explore the Royal Palace and the castle of Visegrád. Continuing toward Budapest, you will arrive in Szentendre, a baroque town known for its vibrant arts scene, charming streets, and the Open-Air Ethnographic Museum. You can conclude the journey by boat or train into Budapest. Or you can cycle the entire way there instead.

Your trip will conclude in Budapest, Hungary’s capital, situated on both sides of the Danube River. Before departing, you will have the chance to visit landmarks such as the Buda Castle district, home to historical buildings and museums, or the Parliament Building, one of Europe’s largest legislative structures. If time permits, you might unwind at one of Budapest’s thermal baths, renowned for their mineral-rich waters.