From Passau to Vienna: cycling along the Danube – Self-guided

First day

Passau, the Gateway to the Danube
Welcome to Passau, the "Pearl of the Three Rivers," where the Danube, theInn and theIlz come together in a fascinating play of colors. After checking into your hotel, you can explore the historic center, famous for its cobblestone streets, picturesque squares, and the imposing St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of the world’s largest organs. Strolling along the riverfront, you can begin to soak up the atmosphere of the Danube Cycle Path, the route that will guide you over the next few days through enchanting landscapes, historic cities, and charming villages. This is just a preview of an unforgettable cycling vacation!

Second day

Cycling toward the Danube’s double bend
Today, our cycling vacation along the Danube takes us through enchanting landscapes and charming villages. We leave Passau and follow the bike path along the river, passing through Obernzell and continuing on to Engelhartszell, known for its ancient Trappist monastery. We cycle peacefully along the banks of the Danube to Wesenufer and then to Aschach, passing through small locks and picturesque villages. The stage ends in Schlögen, on the border between Germany and Austria, where you can admire one of the most famous natural wonders of the cycle route: the Schloegener Schlinge, the spectacular double bend of the Danube River. A perfect view to photograph!

Third day

Toward Linz along the Danube
From the most famous stretch of the Danube, the Schloegener Schlinge, a beautiful bike ride begins that crosses the Engtal valley. The route continues through the lush Eferding basin to the town of the same name. Stop at the Wilhering Church, with its Rococo style and countless angel figures. Finally, you arrive in Linz. Once there, treat yourself to a stroll through the city center.

Fourth day

From Linz to Wallsee along the river
Continuing along the route, you’ll cycle along the Danube , which has now become your constant travel companion. After just a couple of kilometers, you’ll reach Mauthausen, a town that became infamous at the end of World War II for its concentration camp. Then continue toward today’s destination in Au or via Mitterkirchen to Wallsee.

Fifth day

Through the Strudengau Valley to Ybbs
Today we’re traveling through the picturesque Strudengau Valley, one of the most charming sections of the Danube Cycle Path, cycling along a route that alternates between romantic views, such as the famous Hössgang passage, and peaceful stretches along the river surrounded by nature. Along the way, we can choose to take a detour to Maria Taferl, one of Austria’s most important pilgrimage sites, known for its hilltop sanctuary overlooking the Danube. Alternatively, we can reach the charming town of Poechlarn, home of the famous artist Oskar Kokoschka. The ride continues gently on to Ybbs, a small town steeped in history and culture tied to the river, perfect for ending the day with a stroll.

Sixth day

Among abbeys, villages, and wines of the Danube
In the morning, you’ll pass through Melk, a charming little village nestled next to its abbey, which is undoubtedly one of the best-preserved monastic sites in the world. As you stroll through its narrow streets, how can you not think back to the pages of "The Name of the Rose" and its gripping intrigues? You’ll continue cycling through the beautiful region of the Wachau, considered the Chianti of Austria for the excellent wines produced here. You’ll pass through the villages of Spitz, Weissenkirchen, and Durnstein until you reach Krems or Traismauer.
Note: The route can be shortened by taking the ferry from Spitz or Dürnstein to Krems.

Seventh day

Arrival in Vienna, a grand finale on the Danube
After Krems, the landscape changes dramatically as the Danube widens before entering Tulln, the birthplace of Egon Schiele, an artist of the Vienna Secession and a friend of Klimt. You will reach Hoflein, a suburb of Vienna, where you can return the bike (if you rented it from us), or you can continue cycling via Klosterneuburg to the Vienna city center to explore this beautiful city.
Note: The route can be shortened by taking the train from Krems to Tulln, from Tulln to Vienna, or from Klosterneuburg to Vienna.

Eighth day

Vienna, the final destination on the Danube
After breakfast, we say goodbye Vienna, the splendid Austrian capital and final destination of our bike trip along the Danube. After days of cycling past castles, vineyards, historic villages, and breathtaking river landscapes, reaching the heart of Vienna will be a unique experience. Strolling past the majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the elegant Ringstrasse and historic cafés where you can enjoy a slice of Sachertorte will be the perfect way to wrap up this unforgettable cycling vacation . For those who wish, there is the option to return to Passau by train or bus, or to add one or more nights to continue explore Vienna at a leisurely pace.