Danube Cycle Path: Passau to Vienna

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming baroque town of Schärding, where you can take in the sights and marvel at the renowned Silberzeile Lane. Alternatively, you have the option to explore the "New Centre" of Passau, often referred to as the town of three rivers, which has been thoughtfully redesigned as a pedestrian-friendly, car-free area.

Following the course of the river Inn, your journey will lead you to Passau, famously known as the town of three rivers. We highly recommend partaking in a guided tour of the town and paying a visit to the cathedral, where you can experience the melodic tones of the world's largest church organ (except on Sundays and public holidays).

Continuing along the Danube, your route will take you through Obernzell before reaching Engelhartszell, home to the only Trappist monastery in Austria. From here, you'll cycle through the nature reserve Donauleiten, ultimately arriving at the Schlögen Bend to the north. This notable bend was formed when the unyielding granite forced the Danube to make a 180-degree change in direction. As a ferry transports you to your hotel on the opposite side of the river, take the opportunity to marvel at this remarkable natural phenomenon.

Today's journey will take you through the verdant Eferdinger basin, passing through charming market towns like Aschach, Ottensheim, and Wilhering, until you reach the Upper Austrian capital of Linz. In Linz, the historical Old Town beckons with its abundance of pubs and eateries waiting to be explored.

As a former European Capital of Culture in 2009, Linz boasts numerous highlights, including breathtaking vistas from Pöstlingberg mountain and leisurely strolls through the picturesque Donaulände Park.

On the fourth day, your journey will take a brief detour from the Danube's path to visit St. Florian, home to the Augustinian monastery, and then onward to Enns. In Enns, you can explore the town square featuring the prominent 60-metre town tower, a landmark of Austria's oldest town. Alternatively, you may opt to visit the archaeological collection at the Lauriacum municipal museum.

Following this, you'll return to the river's course, first arriving at the charming baroque town of Grein. While here, you'll have the opportunity to visit Austria's oldest municipal theatre still in operation, explore the maritime museum, or tour Greinburg Castle.

The Strudengau section of the Danube, which sailors once feared, is now a tranquil route for cycling. Where mariners once battled against the Danube's currents, you can now enjoy a leisurely bike ride. High above the Danube in Maria Taferl, you'll discover the splendid pilgrimage church that draws thousands of pilgrims each year.

Be sure to make a brief stop in Melk and look up, or you might miss the splendid Stift Melk monastery that graces the Danube's view. Upon leaving the town, you'll enter the picturesque Wachau region, where you can immerse yourself in the charming ambience of the area's signature orchards and vineyards.

Your route will guide you through the quaint wine towns of Spitz and Weißenkirchen, past the ruins of Dürnstein Castle, and conclude your journey in the ancient town of Krems or Tulln. While in the Wachau region, don't miss the chance to partake in a wine tasting, which we have thoughtfully arranged for you.

The final leg of your bike tour will be a leisurely journey to the bustling Danube metropolis of Vienna. Depending on the chosen route, part of this stage can also be covered by train. Upon your arrival, you can promptly check into your room and then fully indulge in the city's offerings for the remainder of the day.

Treat yourself to a Viennese-style Americano coffee and savour a slice of the renowned Sachertorte cake at one of Vienna's quintessential coffee houses. Explore Vienna's vibrant shopping street, Parade, or stroll along Mariahilfer Strasse. Pay a visit to the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral and take in the city's main landmarks, perhaps even opting for a carriage ride in one of Vienna's famous Fiaker cabs.

This cycling holiday along the Danube ends after breakfast, or book an extension in this beautiful city where there is still a lot to discover.