Prague – Vienna

We recommend arriving in Prague early - the “golden city” is one of the most beautiful in Europe, and the historical city centre has been a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 1992. Its historical buildings, the winding streets of the old city and a breath-taking view of the Charles Bridge are perfect excuses for a stroll around the city and will be the first of many unforgettable holiday delights.

The Vltava river will guide you out of Prague. The slightly hilly and ever-changing landscape will enchant you. During today’s stage, you will pass through many small, idyllically situated Bohemian villages. The small houses with wooden-panelled gables irresistibly draw the eyes, and the many cosy inns entice one to stop for a refreshing beer.

For most of today, you will once again be following the course of the river Vltava, passing through many small Bohemian villages and the lush Bohemian forest. Via a beautiful reservoir on the Vltava near Milešov, you will make your way to Orlík. The gothic castle is certainly worth a visit, but merely a few kilometres further comes the next attraction; Zvikov Castle was one of the most important castles of Bohemia in the middle ages. The picturesque town of Písek marks the end of today’s stage.

You will be surrounded by fascinating virgin and cultivated landscapes for most of the day. The bike path follows the romantic banks of the Vltava river for the most part and will lead you through some pretty towns like Týn nad Vltavou. A small forest path will bring you to Hluboká castle, which sits atop a hill high over the Vltava and is definitely worth visiting. On arrival in České Budějovice, also known as Budweis, a Budweiser beer is exactly the right refreshment to make up for any exertions during the day.

During today’s stage, you will experience nature at its purest. The southern Bohemian landscape features many meadows and forests. The region is recognised as a UNESCO nature reserve, and the so-called “southern Bohemian pond landscape” is a result of the long-standing fish farming tradition in the region. The wholly untouched nature is a fantastic experience for any cyclist, and there is also something for fans of culture and architecture; historical buildings, old citadels and picturesque villages are scattered all along the way.

Today’s stage will take you through the north of Lower Austria. The so-called “Waldviertel” region is known for its many river and pond landscapes. The cycle path will lead you through seemingly endless forests with fresh air and wonderful authenticity. The Waldviertel cuisine is also known far and wide. Make sure to try a dish with carp and potatoes, the culinary specialities of this region.

The Kamptal bicycle path will quickly lead you to Hadersdorf via Langenlois. The route is gorgeous and also relatively flat. You will soon spot the first vineyards around Krems. From Hadersdorf, you will take the train to Tulln. Take some time to visit the Egon Schiele museum before riding the last few kilometres along the Danube to Vienna. You will reach your accommodation via the Danube Island, comfortably avoiding all traffic.