The Danube Cycle Path passes through ten countries from Germany to the Black Sea and extends for more than 1700 kilometres. The route is one of the most popular cycling holiday routes and the 300 km stretch between Passau and Vienna is the most famous and well-known cycling holiday section.
The Danube Cycle Path is a classic used by thousands of cyclists every year. The Danube Cycle Path was one of the first long-distance cycle paths and is still one of the most popular river cycle paths in Europe. You can cycle through the beautiful landscapes along the river without major inclines, which makes the cycle path along the Danube very attractive for a first-time cycling holiday and families with children.
You’ll have to decide which part of the Danube is the most beautiful to book. The Passau to Vienna section is more picturesque, but the Vienna to Budapest route allows you to visit 3 capital cities along the way.
In Austria, you cycle along the Danube from Passau in Germany to Vienna. This part is also known as the classic on the Danube. The beautiful landscapes of this part of Austria accompany you during your bike ride. Visit baroque cities, the orchards in the Wachau or modern cultural hotspots such as Linz along the way.
The Schlögener Schlinge (Danube Bend) is a breathtaking natural spectacle because the granite has turned against the river like an insurmountable enemy and forced the river course to change direction by 180 degrees.
The Wachau is the valley between Krems and Melk and is on the World Heritage List because of its rich history. Whether it's apricot liqueur or wines, you will be spoiled here in the numerous taverns and inns. The destination of this stage is Vienna. The Austrian capital has a lot to offer. During your visit, don't miss the Schönbrunn Palace, the Danube Island and the 1st district.
On the bike ride from Vienna to Budapest, you will cycle along the beautiful Danube through Slovakia and Hungary. You follow the EuroVelo 6 signs or the red "C" for the route. During this bike tour, you will visit no fewer than three capitals: Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. Right at the start of the holiday, you will cycle through the forests of the Danube floodplains and Lobau. Many corn and sunflower fields accompany you on this route. Bratislava is about 60 km from Vienna (and 200 km from Budapest) and is a mix of old and modern.
The Schüttinsel river island between Mosonmagyaróvár and Komárom is a true natural spectacle. On this Danube cycling holiday to the Hungarian capital of Budapest, you will also see numerous castles and palaces. This unique city consisting of the parts of Buda and Pest requires a longer visit. The many sights, spectacular parliament building and eventful history make this a compelling cycle tour.
The Danube Cycle Path is a popular destination for cyclists due to excellent infrastructure such as well-marked signage, hotel accommodation that is used to receiving cycling holiday guests and a wealth of history along the route.
The Danube Cycle Path is mostly flat and smooth with excellent signage throughout the route. The section between Passau and Vienna is the best option for beginners, families or those going on a cycling holiday for the first time.
The distance between Passau and Vienna is 300 km and this distance is broken down into 6 cycling days. You'll need to be able to cycle at least 50 kilometres per day. You can also upgrade to an electric bike if required and there is no rush to get to the next hotel. On a flat, smooth path, this is an ideal distance to cover in a day on a cycling holiday.
You can also request GPX files of the route to download onto your phone or GPS so there is easy navigation for each daily stage and no extra added kilometres to cover!
There are many highlights along the way including the Danube Bend, Linz, 3 capital cities (Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest) and the famous Wachau wine region.
The most popular section between Passau and Vienna follows the river for most of the way and has excellent signage, smooth, well-maintained surfaces and hotels that are available in several categories.
As you head further east, the Vienna to Budapest section doesn't follow the river as often, has a more industrial feel and the routes approaching the towns and cities aren't always separated from traffic. The aim is to cycle between three capital cities and get to explore a different side of Central Europe on this tour.
The best time to go cycling on the Danube Cycle Path is between April and October. However, the intense heat in the height of summer can make the route more challenging.
The Danube Cycle Path is located on EuroVelo 6 on an overall trans-European route that stretches from the Atlantic Coast in France to the Black Sea in Romania. The Passau to Vienna section is one of the most popular sections on the entire network of EuroVelo routes. The route is well developed with EuroVelo 6 signage throughout.
The Danube Cycle Path holidays have several different duration options available, however, the most popular and best duration is eight days with six days of cycling per day between Passau and Vienna or Vienna and Budapest.
Distances will be about 50 kilometres per day but can be extended or shortened accordingly using public transport.
Yes! All of our cycling holidays along the Danube Cycle Path include luggage transfers. You simply leave your bags in the hotel Reception and they are taken to the next hotel. All you need to carry on your bike is a small pannier and handlebar bag for daily essentials. These are included with our rental bikes.
Passau is located in Bavaria in southeastern Germany on the Austrian border. The easiest way is to take a train from Munich Airport or Hauptbahnhof to Passau. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours. You can also fly to Vienna and take a direct train in 3.5 hours.
If you can get to Nuremberg Airport, Salzburg Airport or Linz Airport on a direct flight, then there are direct train connections available with shorter transfer times.
Feel free to contact us about your travel options to get to the starting point of the Danube Cycle Path tours.
The Danube flows through ten countries on its way through Europe including Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, the Republic of Moldova, Ukraine and Romania.
The source of the Danube
The source of the Danube is in Germany near Donaueschingen. The source is the meeting of the two source rivers Brigach and Breg, which arise in the Black Forest. A well-known motto is: "Brigach and Breg bring the Danube to the river."
Length of the Danube
The Danube is the longest river in Europe after the Volga. From its source in Donaueschingen to the mouth of the Black Sea, the river meanders through Europe for 2850 km.
Cycling on the north or south bank of the Danube
The Danube Cycle Path runs along both the north and south banks of the Danube. Usually, the side depends on bridges or ferries. You won't miss the most beautiful parts on the route of our cycling tours.
Height profile
The Danube rises in Donaueschingen at approx. 680 m above sea level. In Passau, the river is at approx. 312 m above sea level and flows into the Black Sea in Romania. This means that you are always cycling "downhill". While sailing on a Bike and Boat Cycling Holiday, you will pass through several impressive locks.
Passau
The German border town of Passau is also called the three-river city because here the Inn and Ilz flow into the Danube. The different colours of each river are special here. If you want to experience this spectacle up close, book a boat trip. In addition, we recommend a walk to the Veste Oberhaus, a fortress from the 13th century. There is also a very nice restaurant with an amazing view of the three rivers and the entire city. End the day with a delicious dinner in the old Brauhaus.
Passau is also the starting point for many river cruises and bicycle cruises on the Danube. The dock with its many ships is kilometres long and well worth a walk.
Schärding
Schärding is located on the Inn cycle path. However, this baroque city is also a wonderful starting point for a bike ride along the Danube. Stroll along the Silberzeile or stop at the Wirtshaus zur Bums'n for a "Bratl in the Rhine". Or visit the many other tourist sights such as the Passauer Tor, the former hospital church and the Linzer Tor.
Linz
In Linz, the cultural capital of 2009, history meets modernity. In the main square in the centre is a 20-metre-high Trinity column made of white marble. You can also listen to the Linz carillon here three times a day. The globally active company Voestalpine AG also has its headquarters in Linz and offers visitors an insight into steel production in the associated "adventure world".
Melk
One of Austria's most famous monasteries is in Melk an der Donau. The Benedictine monastery from the 11th century was built in the Baroque style. On a guided tour, admire the beautiful church decorated with golden statues or the huge library of medieval manuscripts. The Baroque marble hall with a frescoed ceiling and red marble walls will also amaze you.
You can see the rich past of the abbey in the treasury, the archive and the beautiful library. Especially the Library with its marble hall is majestic with more than 100,000 works and relevant historical manuscripts. The famous (ceiling) frescoes are also a feast for the eyes.
Krems
The richly decorated portals, bay windows and architectural treasures bear witness to the history of the former harbour town of Krems. Due to its unmistakable location, you can see the Bendiktinerstift Göttweig from afar on the Danube Cycle Path, a magnet for pilgrims from all over the world. If you want to make it even cosier, you should visit the private distillery Hellerschmid. Local Wachau wines and regional specialities are offered here.
Vienna
The history of Vienna goes back to the first century AD when the Romans founded the military camp Vindobona. The current cityscape was given a baroque appearance during the regency of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph. The Imperial splendour of, for example, the baroque Schloss Schönbrunn, the emperor's former summer residence with enchanting parks, still exudes the flair of the Danubian monarchy today.
The Austrian capital became a cultural and political centre of Europe as early as the 19th century. A carriage ride from St. Stephen's Cathedral on the Ringstrasse is recommended because here you will pass many sights such as the Town Hall, the Vienna Opera or the Parliament. Enjoy a Viennese blend in a classic Viennese coffee house. Or a Wienerschnitzel (made from veal) with potato salad in one of the traditional inns.
Bratislava
On the Danube Cycle Path, Bratislava Castle can be seen from afar, the original seat of the rulers and now the city's landmark. From here you have a good overview of the city. The atmosphere of the Slovak capital can be best experienced at Town Hall Square. The Michaelertor, the only surviving gate of the city's fortifications, is also worth a visit. Stroll through the old centre and feel the fairy-tale atmosphere that lingers here.
Györ
Györ was a significant city during the Turkish wars because of the last outpost before Vienna. Even today, the city is one of Hungary's most important industrial sites. The Audi engine factory and the model railway manufacturer Märklin are located here. The old town with the town hall, the Carmelite church or the bishop’s castle invites you to visit. Or you can enjoy the evening in one of the numerous restaurants with excellent cuisine.
Esztergom
Esztergom is one of the oldest cities in Hungary. During your Danube cycling holiday, you can see the classical basilica from afar. The Cathedral of the Assumption and St. Adalbert is one of the largest church buildings in Europe. The altarpiece depicts the Assumption of Mary into Heaven and was painted by Michelangelo Grioletti. The altarpiece is also one of the largest paintings in Europe at 13.5 x 6.5 m, painted on a single piece of canvas.
Budapest
The Hungarian capital is also known as the city of nine bridges. The Danube flows directly through the city, dividing it into two parts. The towers of the Fisherman's Bastion offer you a beautiful view of the city or walk across the Chain Bridge to the old town. The castle palace's extensive collection of Hungarian art is worth a visit. However, Hungary's parliament building and monument on the Danube are unsurpassed. The Palace of Westminster in London served as the template for the Gothic Revival building.
