Classic Danube Cycle Path: Passau to Vienna
- Enjoy relaxed, easy-going cycling on dedicated paths along the Danube River
- Explore the wonderful, culture-filled cities of Passau and Vienna
- Stop along the route for wine tastings as you cycle through the Wachau Valley
- Visit charming towns, beautiful churches and superb scenery every day
- Tuck into the excellent Austrian food and wine
Gallery
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive PassauYour Danube cycling adventure starts in Passau, also known as 'the city of three rivers'. If you have time to spare before collecting your rented bike (between 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM) the historic Bavarian city is a delight to explore. The Old Town was created by Italian baroque masters in the 17th century and reveals soaring towers, picturesque palaces, promenades, and romantic lanes. At the heart of the old town is the Cathedral of St Stephen, which boasts the world’s largest cathedral organ.
Passau has direct train connections to Salzburg, Munich (2.5h) and Vienna (3.5h), which are the most convenient airports.Â
This 4-star hotel provides free Wi-Fi internet in all areas, rooms with a flat-screen TV and a restaurant serving Bavarian cooking. It’s in a historic building dating back to 1512 in Passau’s Old Town. The Hotel Weisser Hase’s rooms all have a private bathroom and a sitting area. The Weisser Hase’s 5th floor spa area offers a sauna and solarium.
If you arrived late on your first day, it is possible to collect your rented bike before setting off on your first bike ride. Then it’s off for today’s delightfully flat and traffic-free route along the scenic River Danube Cycle Path visiting several fascinating attractions, including a Trappist monastery at Engelhartszell, where cordials and liqueurs boast "special healing powers". Next up is the Schlögener Loop, where the river makes a dramatic bend of 180 degrees.
This pretty 4* hotel complex offers the perfect accommodation to relax and revitalise after a hard day's cycling.
You’ll leave the impressive Schlögener Loop behind and continue cycling along the easy-going route through the fertile and picturesque Eferdinger basin. The valley is wider here and you’ll pass numerous ferries and boats as they sail the Danube while you go by pedal power. The destination is Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, where you can make the most of a summer’s evening with a stroll through the enchanting old town.
The Park Inn by Radisson charms its guests with premier services in an ideal location adjacent to Palais Kaufmännischer Verein and bordering historic Old Town, just steps from excellent shopping areas and the main pedestrian zone, Landstraße. With high-end amenities such as flat-panel LCD television, individual climate control and room service, our rooms guarantee guests a relaxing getaway in the heart of the city.

The Trans World Hotel Donauwelle was newly renovated in 2018 and furnished with modern style elements. In addition to the comfortable rooms, you can relax after the stage in the wellness area or on the roof terrace with a view of the Danube.
Today’s cycling heads along the Danube and through breath-taking scenery of lush meadows. Cycle to Enns, the oldest town in Austria and worthwhile a visit! Further along, you will pass the Celtic village of Mitterkirchen, the majestic church of Baumgartenberg and the romantic castle of Clam. The final destination today is Grein, which is home to Austria's oldest city theatre and the magnificent Grein Castle.
The inn Zur Traube, run by the Barth-Schneeberger family, is set at the foot of the imposing Greinburg castle. The town centre is a 5-minute walk away. With lovely comfortable rooms and a restaurant offering home-cooked Austrian fare, you are certain to have a delightful stay here.
Discover remarkable scenery in a landscape that is known for its diversity. Pass densely wooded areas and rock formations on both sides of the Danube River as you pedal along the cycle path. The narrow Strudengau valley gives way to a wider landscape from the attractive town of Persenbeug, and then to the Wachau valley, which is characterized by terraced vineyards and fruit orchards. At Melk, you will revel in the sight of a gorgeous baroque Benedictine monastery.
In what is probably the smallest 4 star hotel of the Wachau, you will find all the ingredients for a perfect holiday: familial atmosphere, decent luxury, and perfect service.
More delights are in-store today in the beautiful Wachau Valley, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will rarely be without the sight of a castle, palace or monastery as you follow the route on its way to Krems. Stop off at the pretty winery villages of Spitz, Weissenkirchen, and the cobbled streets of Durnstein. If there’s a must-do on this tour it’s popping into one of the quaint taverns to sample a glass or two of the local wine. Don't leave without trying some of the apricot-based delicacies on offer, guaranteed to be locally produced; Austrian hospitality at its best!Â
Charming 17th-century inn, updated to include modern comforts and only a few minutes from the old town of Krems.
Leave the Wachau Valley behind as you hop on a train to Tulln, famous for its beautiful market gardens and Art Nouveau painter Egon Schiele. Cycle through the woods of "Wiener Wald" and pass through the gates of Vienna. It is worth taking the time to visit the impressive monastery in Klösterneuburg before making it to the City of Music. Try Austria's national dish 'Wiener Schnitzel', which is a thin, breaded, pan-fried veal cutlet traditionally served with potato salad.
Austria Trend Hotel's comfortably appointed rooms and five suites - all of which are equipped with bath/WC, room safe, hairdryer, telephone, cable television and radio - invite you to enjoy a truly relaxing stay. All rooms face the interior courtyard, offering you the quiet, pleasant atmosphere you have been looking for. Outstanding service and the complete satisfaction of guests are the hotel’s most important goals.
After breakfast, your Danube adventure comes to an end. If you need to return back to Passau a train ticket* is included in the price of your trip but you may wish to explore the delightful city of Vienna further before you leave. Extra nights in Vienna can be reserved at the time of booking this trip.
*Depending on the time of year we include a bus ticket instead of a train ticket back to Passau from Vienna.Â
Other Information
Is it for me?This tour is graded easy. Each cycling day covers between 40-60km along dedicated cyclepaths and through the towns and villages along Europe's most famous waterway. Predominantly traffice free means this trip is perfect for beginners, those that love to explore by bike or a group with mixed abilites. With plenty of opportunities to sample local dishes and admire centuries old towns, every pedal stroke is completed in your own time.
Classic Routes | If you’re the active, outdoorsy type, who’s interested in taking on the great routes of the world or looking for a challenge, then our Classic Routes are for you. We’re talking the West Highland Way, Tour Du Mont Blanc and the Passau to Vienna Danube Cycle Path, to name but a few!
Leisure Cycling | Leisure Cycling
Solo Travellers
This cycling holiday is graded easy to moderate and the daily rides follow mostly flat and largely traffic-free routes. The Wachau Valley in Austria can be described as slightly more undulating in comparison to the other sections of the path. The Danube Cycle Path is a dedicated, paved and well-marked route. There will be a mixture of cycle paths and roads, so please be mindful of other road users at all times, especially on routes shared with traffic.
Our Classic Danube Cycle Path trip includes accommodation in standard ensuite double/twin rooms in traditional hotels and authentic inns, which are normally 3* standard.
We work with a number of accommodations along the cycle path, so all distances are an approximation of the recommended routes. You may be accommodated 5-10km away in the surrounding area, which may add or reduce the distance you cycle each day.
If you're traveling with friends or family but prefer your own room, single rooms are subject to availability and a supplementary payment. This trip is also available to solo cyclists and is perfect as the route is popular, so there are plenty of people to chat with every day.
Meals
Breakfast is included each morning. Packed lunches are not included but are in most cases available at your accommodation (please order the night before!) or you can stop on the way for a traditional "wurst" or bowl of "goulash". Travelling through several regions means your tastebuds are also on an incredible journey! You will find suggestions of where to dine in your route notes. Your accommodation hosts are also happy to advise of the local places to eat.
The Danube Cycle Path is one of Europe's most popular cycling routes and it is very well maintained and waymarked throughout. Following the waymarking along the banks of the river would be sufficient, but we will also be supplying you with a trip information pack, and access to the GPX tracks via the Macs Adventure smartphone App. You will also receive a printed, personalised tour book on arrival at your first hotel. This tour book contains everything you need including personalised route notes and maps, as well as your hotel list with directions and vouchers. This book will also include recommended side visits and more information about points of interest that you will pass along the route. Rest assured that you will have no trouble finding your way!
Please note that due to popular demand we aim to get your personalised itinerary with hotel confirmations to you 3 to 4 weeks prior to departure. There may be a slight delay in receiving your personalised information when booking last-minute or during the high season.
- 7 nights in rooms with private facilities
- Breakfasts
- Luggage transfers (1 bag of max. 23kg per person)
- 1 bottle of wine in Wachau Valley (per room)
- A tasting of regional products
- Train journey from Krems to Tulln (including bike)
- Train (or bus) journey from Vienna Central Station to Passau (depending on season)
- Handlebar bag with personalised tourbook (on arrival)
- Information pack and access to the GPX tracks in the Macs Adventure smartphone app
- Emergency support from our local partners and our office
- Lunch, Dinner, Snacks and Drinks
- Travel to Passau and from Vienna
- Bike Hire
- Helmet and personal equipment
- Local tax (€1 - €2,5 p.p.n) payable locally
- Transfer of own bike on train journey from Vienna Train Station to Passau
- Travel Insurance
- Bike Hire
- Helmet Purchase (must be reserved at time of booking)
This trip is available to start on any day from April to October.
May to September are the busiest months, and in July and August, the days are wonderfully long for exploring and making the most of the historic towns that you will visit.Â
The summer months generally do not become unbearably hot and temperatures are often pleasantly warm, especially for cycling. Do keep in mind that some days will be hotter than others and it is important to make sure to always carry plenty of water, avoid cycling at noon and wear sunscreen while cycling even on cloudy days. We suggest that you contact us as soon as possible if you are considering a departure during peak season.Â
Passau is located in Germany, close to the Austrian border. It doesn't have an airport but it easily accessible by rail from nearby cities such as Munich, Linz, Salzburg, and Vienna.
By Air
Passau has direct train connections to Linz (1h30), Salzburg (2h45), Munich (2h30) and Vienna (3h30), which are the most convenient airports. Please visit the DB Bahn website to check the times.
If you are arriving at Vienna Airport rail or bus transfers to Passau are included in the price. If you would like to arrange this please let us know at the time of booking. These cannot be arranged on the day of arrival.
By Train
Visit the DB Bahn website to check train times and book tickets to Passau from European destinations. You may also wish to try Rail Europe for European rail tickets and passes.
By Car
Parking is available in Passau from between €30 and €60 per week. Contact us for details.
Vienna Airport has extensive connections to most major international cities. The airport is only a 20-minute bus journey from the center and has regular airport shuttle buses leaving every 20 minutes from central Vienna.
If you would like to return to Passau this is possible. We can arrange a train ticket for you which is included in the price of your trip. Central Vienna train station has several services throughout the day to Passau. Journey time is around 2hrs 45mins to 3hrs. For full information on fares and times please click here. Train transfers from either Passau to Vienna or Vienna to Passau must be confirmed prior to travel.
Daily door to door baggage transfer is included in the price of your trip. We ask you to keep your baggage to a maximum of 1 bag per person (maximum weight 23kg).
Rental Bikes: 7-speed bikes with coaster brake (backpedal) or 21-speed bikes (unisex) are available to rent, these are not included in the tour package but can be booked as an extra. Electric bikes (unisex), children’s bikes, and other specialized equipment may be available upon request.
All rental bikes are equipped with a pannier (saddle bag) and an odometer (except for the electric bikes). Please note that helmets are not included as part of the rental package, but can be bought locally (€39). Please remember that your own helmet is likely to be a better fit. If you would like to buy a helmet, this must be reserved at the time of booking but to be paid for locally.Â
If you’d like to hire a bike, please let us know the height and frame size you currently ride. If you would prefer to bring your own bicycle please ensure it is thoroughly serviced and is an appropriate bike for this trip.
It is a requirement of booking this tour with Macs Adventure that you have suitable travel insurance which covers you for the activity and emergency evacuation and hospital care.
We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as this trip is extremely popular especially during peak season from July to August.
This trip is graded as easy owing to the very flat nature of this route. Daily distances are between 40 and 60 km. If you havent been in the saddle for a while, it is a good idea to get out and spend some time cycling a couple of back to back days to get used to being on a bike. However, it’s not all cycling. Each day there are plenty opportunities to visit historic sights and sample locally produced food and wine.
You will be cycling along designated traffic free cycle paths and some quiet roads and along some busier routes through when approaching and departing towns and cities, so please be mindful of other road and cycle path users at all times.
Your bags will be transferred from your accommodation as per your itinerary and moved onto your next overnight accommodation. We ask that you limit your luggage to one bag of up to 20kg per person. If are carrying more than 20kg per person, please let us know at the time of booking as extra luggage transfers might be required.
You will need comfortable shoes and clothing for cycling, a helmet and other weather appropriate clothing such as clothing for when youre not cycling. We supply a detailed packing list with your information pack.
The Danube Cycle Path is busiest between May and September, with warm days and a buzzing town life in the evenings. The hottest months are July and August and during these months wed suggest cycling early, or plan you day around a long lunch to avoid cycling in the midday heat.
If you cant cycle a stage, you can take public transportation or book a taxi to transfer you to your next stop (at your own expense). You can discuss options with your accommodation providerÂ
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