Classic Danube Cycle Path: Passau to Vienna
- Enjoy relaxed, easy-going cycling on dedicated paths along the Danube
- Treat yourself to "Kaffee und Kuchen" in a classic Viennese coffeehouse
- Castles, villages and vineyards of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO site
- Stay in convenient locations in traditional towns and villages
- The striking 'Donauschlinge' where the river dramatically bends 180 degrees
Itinerary
Day 1 Arrive in PassauYour Danube cycling adventure begins in Passau, famously known as the "City of Three Rivers." If you arrive with time to spare before picking up your rental bike (available until 7pm/19:00), take the opportunity to explore this charming Bavarian gem.
The Old Town, crafted by Italian Baroque masters in the 17th century, is a feast for the eyes with its soaring towers, elegant palaces, scenic promenades, and winding romantic lanes. At its center stands the magnificent Cathedral of St. Stephen, home to the world’s largest cathedral organ—a true marvel of artistry and sound.
If you're arriving in Vienna, we provide a train journey from Vienna Central Station to Passau (included).

Stay at this cosy Passau hotel, which offers bike storage, E-Bike charging, free Wi-Fi, and 24-hour reception. Perfect for cyclists and explorers alike
Today’s journey offers a wonderfully flat, traffic-free route along the picturesque Donau Radweg. You’ll visit several intriguing landmarks, including the Trappist monastery in Engelhartszell, renowned for its cordials and liqueurs said to possess "special healing powers." The route concludes with the stunning Schlögener Schlinge, where the Danube makes a dramatic 180-degree turn, a true highlight!
Distance: 49km (30mi) | Ascent/Descent: 429m (1,407ft)/140m (459ft)

This family-run hotel offers a comfortable stay with a lounge, bar, restaurant, and panoramic terrace. Enjoy countryside views, a wellness center, and heated indoor and outdoor pools.
Your adventure continues along a gentle, scenic path through the lush and picturesque Eferdinger Basin. The valley opens up, offering expansive views while ferries and boats glide gracefully along the Danube, creating a striking contrast to your steady rhythm on two wheels.
Your destination is Linz, the vibrant capital of Upper Austria. Upon arrival, unwind with a stroll through its charming old town, the perfect way to end the day.
Distance: 59km (37mi) | Ascent/Descent: 216m (709ft)/540m (1,772ft)

Just 20 minutes from the Old Town, this comfortable hotel offers spacious, bright rooms with extra-large beds, private bathrooms, and all the essentials!
Today’s route takes you along the picturesque Danube, surrounded by stunning landscapes of lush meadows. Your journey leads to Enns, Austria's oldest town and a destination well worth exploring. As you continue, you'll pass the reconstructed Celtic village of Mitterkirchen, the impressive church of Baumgartenberg, and the enchanting Clam Castle.
The day concludes in the charming town of Grein, home to Austria's oldest city theatre, and the breathtaking Grein Castle.
Distance: 62km (39mi) | Ascent/Descent: 44m (144ft)/57m (187ft)

Hotel Zur Traube is your home away from home in Grein. Expect Austrian hospitality and stunning views of Greinburg Castle and the Danube River. Enjoy regional specialities at the restaurant and relax in the garden.
Today you'll experience more diverse landscapes as you ride through dense forests and dramatic rock formations that line the riverbanks, immersing yourself in nature at every turn. The narrow Strudengau Valley gradually opens into wider vistas near the charming town of Persenbeug, eventually leading to the stunning Wachau Valley, renowned for its terraced vineyards and lush fruit orchards.
In Melk, prepare to be captivated by the magnificent baroque architecture of its iconic Benedictine monastery.
Distance: 55km (34mi) | Ascent/Descent: 150m (492ft)/143m (469ft)

Welcome to the tiniest 4-star hotel in the Wachau! Enjoy a cozy, family-like vibe, and exceptional service.
A true highlight of this tour is the journey through the enchanting Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that promises even more delights. As you make your way toward Krems, you’ll be treated to a stunning landscape dotted with castles, palaces, and monasteries. Take time to explore the charming winery villages of Spitz and Weissenkirchen, along with the cobblestone streets of picturesque Dürnstein. A visit here wouldn’t be complete without stopping by a cozy tavern to savor a glass or two of the region’s renowned wines: Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. And don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in delectable apricot-based treats, crafted with local ingredients—a true taste of Austrian hospitality at its finest!
Distance: 38km (24mi) | Ascent/Descent: 79m (259ft)/118m (387ft)

Nestled in the heart of the art district, this hotel is celebrated for its modern design and ambiance. Offering a curated selection of regional cuisine and locally sourced wines, the bar is the perfect place to unwind.
Say goodbye to the picturesque Wachau Valley as you board a train from Krems to Tulln with your bike (included in the tour cost). It's a town renowned for its stunning market gardens and its connection to Art Nouveau painter Egon Schiele. Cycle through the enchanting woodlands of the "Wiener Wald" and approach the gates of Vienna. Along the way, take a moment to explore the remarkable monastery in Klosterneuburg before arriving in the iconic City of Music.
Once in Vienna, be sure to savor Austria's traditional dish, the 'Wiener Schnitzel'—a delicate, breaded, and pan-fried veal cutlet, typically served with a refreshing potato salad.
Distance Tulln to Vienna: 40km (25mi) | Ascent/Descent: 68m (223ft)/84m (276ft)

This modern hotel puts you right where the action is! You'll be just a stroll away from top spots like the iconic Riesenrad and the Vienna State Opera.
Every incredible adventure must come to a close, and your Danube adventure will wrap up after breakfast. You might want to take some extra time to explore the enchanting city of Vienna before departing, please get in touch if you'd like to add extra nights to your itinerary.
This trip has a carbon score of 5kg per person per night, meaning it’s one of our best trips! For comparison, a carbon count of 5kg is equivalent to 1 Neapolitan margherita pizza. Here at Macs, we pride ourselves on being a responsible travel company and continue to adopt, develop and innovate ways to positively impact the environment. Find out more information on how we've carbon counted our trips.
Other Information
Is it for me?Enjoy cycling from Germany's lower Bavaria region to Austria's capital city, Vienna, on dedicated cycle paths. Taking you through towns and villages along Europe's most famous waterway, this predominantly traffic-free (and flat!) route is perfect for beginners or for those that love to explore a region by bike, with plenty of opportunities to sample local dishes and admire centuries old towns along the way.
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, Families with Teens
The minimum age for this tour is: 5 Years
This cycling holiday is rated as easy, thanks to its daily rides along mostly flat and traffic-free cycle paths that follow the riverbank. The overall grade reflects the trip as a whole, though individual days may vary in difficulty—some routes might be a bit easier or more challenging than the average.
Although the route is mostly flat, the Wachau Valley in Austria can be described as slightly more undulating in comparison to the other sections of the route.
This tour presents no technical challenges and is a more accessible itinerary compared to Vienna to Budapest, which includes a mix of backroads, side roads, and cycle paths.
This cycling tour is perfect for beginners embarking on their first cycling holiday or for those seeking a relaxed pace with ample time to explore along the way. To make the most of your Danube adventure, we recommend getting some practice rides in before your trip—whether it's commuting to work or enjoying leisurely weekend outings.
You'll stay in comfortable, family-run hotels along the cycle path, offering 3- or 4-star comfort with private facilities. The accommodations cater to cyclists, providing bike storage and in some instances even charging points for e-bikes to ensure a seamless experience.
For those travelling with friends or family but preferring their own space, single rooms are available upon request, subject to availability and an additional fee.
This trip is also an excellent choice for solo cyclists. With the route being so popular, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet and connect with fellow travellers along the way.
Austrian Twin Beds
In Austria, 95% of hotel rooms feature double rooms with two separate mattresses, each with its own bedding, placed on a shared base. This setup is designed to accommodate requests for both double and twin bed arrangements. However, twin beds (two distinct single beds) and traditional double beds (a single large mattress on one base) are uncommon and cannot be guaranteed.
Meals
All breakfasts are included and in Austria Frühstück typically includes bread, rolls, cold cuts, cheese, eggs, fresh fruit, pastries, and muesli. There is always a plentiful supply of tea and coffee and orange juice. While packed lunches are not included, they can often be arranged through your accommodation, just be sure to request one the night before!
Dinner is not included so you are free to choose from the available options each night. One of the highlights of this trip is the fantastic food and drink of the regions that you cycle through. Some of our favourites include; a traditional Wiener Schnitzel with a potato salad, a hearty bowl of Goulash, a refreshing cold glass of Grüner Veltliner, and a slice of Sacher-Torte with a cup of tea or coffee.
Should you have any special dietary requirements please let us know. We try to accommodate all requirements where possible.
The Danube Cycle Path is a dedicated, well-paved, and clearly signposted route that is easy to follow, making it one of Europe's most popular cycling routes. This is the Austrian section from Passau to Vienna that enjoys the best-maintained signposting of the entire stretch.
With our award-winning Macs Adventure App, you'll have access to the GPX tracks, enabling you to follow the route on your smartphone with richly detailed maps for a seamless navigation experience.
- 7 Nights in 3- and 4-Star Hotels with Private Facilities
- 7 Breakfasts
- Daily Luggage Transfers
- Hybrid Bike Hire with Helmet Hire & Bike Insurance
- Optional Train Journey from Vienna Central Station to Passau (Day 1)
- Train Journey from Krems to Tulln (Day 7)
- Access to the Trip Info and GPX tracks via our App
- Emergency Telephone Support
- Travel Insurance
- Lunches, Dinners, Snacks, & Drinks
- Travel to Passau and from Vienna
- Any Local Taxes (Payable Locally)
- E-Bike Hire with Helmet Hire & Bike Insurance
- Extra Nights in Passau or Vienna
This trip can start on any day of the week from April to October, subject to the availability of our preferred hotels.
The most popular time is June to August, drawing cyclists with its warm weather and long daylight hours. This period is especially popular among families and groups, making it the busiest time of year.
For those looking to avoid peak season, May and September strike the perfect balance. These months offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds while maintaining the vibrant energy of historic towns, often bustling with cyclists.
April and October, part of the shoulder season, provide a quieter and more relaxed experience. April brings landscapes alive with blooming wildflowers, while October showcases stunning autumn hues, offering a picturesque setting for those who prefer cooler weather and fewer riders.
If you're flexible with your dates, this can help in securing your trip more easily!
Between April and October, the Danube region enjoys a pleasant climate, making it a fantastic time to set off on your cycling adventure. Spring, from April to early June, brings mild temperatures ranging from 10°C to 21°C (50°F to 70°F), with lush greenery and blooming flowers creating a picturesque backdrop. Summer, spanning June to August, sees warmer days with highs of 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F), perfect for outdoor activities and river cruises. Autumn, from September to October, offers cooler but comfortable weather, with temperatures typically ranging between 13°C and 24°C (55°F to 75°F). This season also brings vibrant fall foliage, especially along the riverbanks, creating stunning scenery. While occasional rainfall occurs during these months, it’s generally light and short-lived, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the region’s beauty.
Passau is located in Bavaria in Germany near the Austrian border. While it doesn't have its own airport, it is easily accessible by rail from nearby cities.
Two of the most convenient options are to fly into Munich or Vienna. Munich Airport offers frequent flights from major UK cities. From here, you can take a direct train to Passau (duration: roughly 2hrs).
If you're arriving at Vienna Airport, you can make your way into Vienna by train (duration: 15min) or bus (duration: 20min). We include a train journey from Vienna Central Station to Passau (duration: roughly 3hrs).
Consider exploring Rail Europe for a convenient way to book European rail tickets and passes.
Vienna Airport has extensive connections to most major international cities and the airport is only a short bus or train journey from the city centre.
If you would like to return to Passau this is possible. We can arrange a train ticket for you (or a bus ticket, this depends on the season) which is included in the price of your trip. There are several train journeys between Vienna Central Station and Passau each day. This ticket is only valid on trains from ÖBB (2nd class), and not on trains from Westbahn (marked "WB" on any timetables). The return transport of your own bike is not included, and we ask you to reserve the ticket for any bike before arrival.
Your trip includes daily door-to-door baggage transfer at no additional cost. To ensure a smooth experience, we kindly request that each person limits their luggage to one bag, with a maximum weight of 23kg (50lbs).
Online Documents
At Macs Adventure, we’re committed to protecting the environment. To reduce our ecological footprint, we’ve transitioned most of our tour documentation to digital delivery. For this tour, all your detailed Trip Info will be available through your Macs App, ensuring easy access while minimizing waste.
Local Tourist Tax
Some hotels along the way might charge a small tourist tax, usually between EUR 1.00 and EUR 3.00 per person per night, depending on the location. Think of it as a little contribution to these wonderful towns you’ll be visiting! These fees are collected directly by the hotels at check-in, so we can’t include them in your tour price.
Extra Nights
Extend your adventure by adding extra nights to your itinerary—just let us know your preferences, and we’ll make it happen.
Adding an extra night in Vienna? Trust us, it’s worth it! With a little more time, you can dive deeper into the city’s incredible culture and history. Explore iconic spots like Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the Hofburg—or get your art fix at the Belvedere and Kunsthistorisches Museum (because who doesn’t love a good masterpiece?). Take a leisurely stroll through Vienna’s dreamy parks, sip coffee in its cozy cafés, and wander through vibrant neighborhoods at your own pace. That extra night gives you the chance to slow down, and soak in this cultural gem.
A 21-speed freewheel, hybrid bike (unisex) is included, fully kitted out with a pannier (saddlebag) and an odometer to track your miles like a pro! To ensure a smooth and worry-free journey, we’ve included helmet hire and bike insurance as well.
If you're considering upgrading to an e-bike, let us know! Each e-bike comes with a pannier (saddlebag) for added convenience, though they do not include an odometer. Helmet hire and bike insurance are also included as standard.
The E-Bike is a KTM Macina Fun, unisex frame, 8 or 9-speed, and there are men’s frames available (although only for clients 175cm/5’9’’ and above).
If you prefer to bring your own bicycle, please ensure it is fully serviced and suitable for the demands of this trip.
Kindly let us know the height and frame size of the bike you currently ride.
Always make sure you’ve got comprehensive travel insurance before setting off on your adventures. Your policy should cover all the activities in the tour, as well as emergency evacuation and hospital care, just in case.
Your tour package includes bike insurance, covering loss or damage to the rental bike when used and secured appropriately. However, the coverage excludes lost keys, e-bike batteries, and chargers, as well as damage caused by gross negligence.
We recommend booking your trip as soon as your plans are finalized, to avoid disappointment. This destination is highly sought-after, particularly during the peak season from June to August. If you're flexible with your dates, this can help in securing your trip more easily.
Austrian-style twin beds are a common hotel setup in Austria (and even in parts of Germany, and Switzerland!). The hotel rooms feature double rooms with two separate mattresses on a shared base, each with its own duvet and set of sheets. This setup is designed to accommodate requests for both double and twin bed arrangements. In many cases, the mattresses can’t be easily separated.
Yes, we’ve got you covered with a 21-speed hybrid bike, kitted out with a pannier (saddlebag) and an odometer to track your miles like a pro! To ensure a smooth and worry-free journey, we’ve included helmet hire and bike insurance as well.
If you're considering upgrading to an e-bike, let us know! Each e-bike comes with a pannier (saddlebag) for added convenience, though they do not include an odometer.
Your bike insurance provides coverage for loss or damage to the rental bike when it is used and secured appropriately, giving you peace of mind during your ride. This means that if the bike is stolen or damaged while following proper usage and security guidelines, you're protected. However, it’s important to note that the coverage does not extend to certain items such as lost keys, e-bike batteries, and chargers. Additionally, any damage caused by gross negligence, such as failing to lock the bike or improper handling, is also excluded from the policy.
The Danube Cycle Path is ideal for solo cyclists, offering a well-marked, and mostly flat route through stunning landscapes and historic towns. It’s easy to navigate, with plenty of bike-friendly cafes and hotels along the way. You’ll never be far from fellow cyclists, making it easy to meet like-minded adventurers while still enjoying moments of solitude. Excellent public transport connections and flexible route options allow for a stress-free journey, whether you’re seeking independence, new friendships, or a mix of both.
Short on time to cycle the full Passau to Budapest route? No problem! Splitting it into two sections is a fantastic way to soak in all the beauty this iconic cycle path has to offer.
Passau to Vienna is known as the "Classic," perfect for those seeking a leisurely ride with gentle terrain, scenic riverside paths, charming villages, and historic landmarks like the Wachau Valley. This section follows the Danube River more closely. The path hugs the riverbank almost continuously, offering scenic views of the water.
Vienna to Budapest is better suited for those looking for a quieter, more rural adventure. With flatter terrain, open farmland, and tranquil floodplains, it offers an authentic, peaceful journey, with highlights like Bratislava and northern Hungary's charming towns. The path occasionally diverts through farmland and rural areas, with fewer stretches directly along the river.
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