Self-guided Classic Danube Cycle Path Passau to Vienna

Passau

Individual arrival. Use the remaining time for a city tour or get to know the “City of Three Rivers” by a walk through the picturesque old part of town. Between 4pm and 7pm bike hand over – for late arrivals on the next morning.

Passau – Schlögener Loop, approx. 41km

Start the first cycling route through the Upper Danube Valley to Schlögen. In Engelhartszell, you can visit the one and only “Trappist“ monastery in Austria and you can even sample some delicious liqueurs straight from the convent. Continue the journey to the impressive “Schlögener Loop”, where the river makes a complete 180-degrees turn.

Schlögener Loop – Linz, approx. 55km

Between the banks of the Danube there are small passenger ferries waiting for you to take them. Next, you cycle through the slowly widening fertile basin of Eferding and further onto Linz, the capital of Upper Austria and European Culture Capital of 2009. Enjoy a magical summer evening doing some shopping around the lovely main square of the city.

Linz – Strudengau, approx. 60km

An excursion to Enns, the oldest town in Austria is highly recommended and worthwhile in any case. This leg guides you through beautiful meadows and tranquil hinterland while passing the Celtic village Mitterkirchen, rolling by the majestic church in Baumgartenberg and on to the romantic castle of Clam.

Strudengau – Nibelungengau, approx. 50km

Today’s tour is enjoyed by cycling through the fascinating landscape of tall and densely wooded rock formations on both sides of the Danube. High above the Danube is the Pilgrimage Church of Maria Taferl. From there, you are greeted from afar by the marvellous Benedictine Monastery of Melk.

Nibelungengau – Krems/surroundings, approx. 50km

Another highlight of this tour is the chance to cycle through the magnificent Wachau. A landscape where you will find terraced vineyards, apricot groves interspersed with castles, palaces and monasteries. There is also the possibility to take a break off your bike and relax on a short boat excursion. On your way to Krems you cycle through the winery villages of Spitz, Weißkirchen and Durnstein. Through these charming villages you will see quaint alluring taverns, which are just waiting to present Austrian hospitality at its best. Something you have to experience first-hand.

Krems/surroundings – Vienna, approx. 40km + Train ride Krems - Tulln

By train you will depart from this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage region. After arriving in Tulln, you will ride your bike for the last time on this tour directly through the Vienna Woods (Wiener Wald) and pass through “The Gates of Vienna”. Along the way don’t forget to stop in and visit the impressive monastery in Klosterneuburg and then continue on to “The City of Music”: Vienna.

Vienna

Some say that one must personally experience this great city. A few of the must-sees include the famous Naschmarkt (international food/goods market), the City Opera, the Ringstrasse, (a beautiful boulevard with imposing buildings which bear witness to ancient times) and of course the gorgeous imperial castle Schönbrunn. Extension at Vienna or train ride back to Passau (Season 1+2) or comfortable by bus (season 3).