> 8-day Danube Cycle Path Holiday: from Passau to Vienna

Self-guided Passau to Vienna bike tour

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This 8-day Danube Cycle Path holiday, one of Europe’s most iconic cycling routes, follows the Danube downstream from Passau to Vienna on mostly flat cycle paths and country roads. Ride through scenic river landscapes, historic towns, and vineyard-covered hillsides, passing highlights such as the spectacular Schlögener Schlinge river loop and the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley.

Tour Highlights

Passau, the City of Three Rivers
Schlögener Schlinge, the spectacular Danube loop
Mostly flat stages, with the option of an e-bike for an even more relaxed ride
End in Vienna, the elegant imperial capital
Discounts for families

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ITINERARY

Start: Passau Finish: Vienna

Day 1: Arrive in Passau

Day 2: From Passau to the Schlögener Schlinge (40 km / 24.8 mi)

Day 3: From Schlögener Schlinge to Linz (55 km / 34.2 mi)

Day 4: From Linz to Grein/surroundings (60 km / 37.3 mi)

Day 5: From Grein to the Wachau (70 km / 43.5 mi)

Day 6: From Wachau to Krems/ (40 km / 24.9 mi)

Day 7: From Krems to Vienna (70 km / 43.8 mi)

Day 8: Departure from Vienna

Day 1: Arrive in Passau

Arrive in Passau, the charming City of Three Rivers and the starting point of your cycling adventure. After checking in at your hotel, you'll receive your travel documents and can collect your rental bike, ready for the journey ahead.

Day 2: From Passau to the Schlögener Schlinge (40 km / 24.8 mi)

Today's ride follows the Danube (Donau in German) through the scenic Upper Danube Valley. Along the way, take a break at Engelszell Abbey before continuing to Schlögener Schlinge, where the river makes a dramatic loop through the surrounding hills. Make a short detour to the Schlögener Blick viewpoint and enjoy panoramic views of the Danube loop from above the forest.

Challenge: 40 km / 24.8 mi

Day 3: From Schlögener Schlinge to Linz (55 km / 34.2 mi)

Cycle from the spectacular Schlögener Schlinge through the fertile Eferding Basin towards Linz, one of Austria's most vibrant cities. Along the way, enjoy peaceful riverside paths and charming countryside scenery. Your day ends in Linz, a city that perfectly blends historic architecture, cultural heritage, and contemporary innovation.

Challenge: 55 km / 34.2 mi

Day 4: From Linz to Grein/surroundings (60 km / 37.3 mi)

Leave Linz behind and continue along the beautiful Danube Valley. After a short time, you'll reach Enns, officially the oldest town in Austria, with its charming historic centre and impressive town square. Following the river eastwards, the route leads through peaceful countryside to Grein, a picturesque riverside town known for its historic theatre and welcoming atmosphere.

Challenge: 60 km / 37.3 mi

Day 5: From Grein to the Wachau (70 km / 43.5 mi)

Follow the Danube through the scenic Strudengau region, a stretch known for its dramatic river landscapes and charming villages. The route leads to Melk, home to the magnificent Melk Abbey, one of Austria's most iconic Benedictine monasteries. Perched high above the river, this impressive baroque masterpiece is well worth a visit before continuing your journey into the beautiful Wachau Valley.

Challenge: 70 km / 43.5 mi

Day 6: From Wachau to Krems/ (40 km / 24.9 mi)

Today you'll experience the most beautiful stretch of the Danube as you cycle through the heart of the stunning Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Charming villages such as Weißenkirchen, Spitz, and Dürnstein invite you to slow down and soak up their unique atmosphere.

Along the way, you'll find countless traditional wine taverns (Heurigen), the perfect place to sample local wines and regional specialities while enjoying the breathtaking vineyard landscapes.

Challenge: 40 km / 24.9

Day 7: From Krems to Vienna (70 km / 43.8 mi)

Your final cycling stage follows the Danube towards Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital city. If you prefer a shorter ride, you can take the train from Tulln or Klosterneuburg.

Upon arrival in Vienna, a wealth of attractions awaits, from the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral to its lively cafés, grand boulevards, and rich cultural heritage.

Challenge: 70 km / 43.5 mi

Day 8: Departure from Vienna

After breakfast, you will start your return journey to Passau. Usually the return journey is comfortably by train (please note: own bikes are not included). From 25.04 to 18.09, you can travel comfortably back to Passau by bus – bike transport is included here. Alternatively, a return journey by train is possible on request.

If you want you can extend your stay in Vienna to end your Danube trip in peace and quiet.

ACCOMMODATION

For this tour, you can choose between simple but welcoming accommodation and a more comfortable 3/4-star hotel option. Check out both alternatives below.

All accommodations have been carefully selected for their location, atmosphere and/or unique services. All rooms are en-suite, and all properties are accustomed to welcoming cyclists, offering facilities to store and charge e-bikes.

If a particular hotel is unable to confirm your stay due to lack of availability, we will arrange a similar alternative and inform you of the accommodation booked. Extra nights can be booked at any of the accommodations along the route.

Hotel Amedia (Passau)

Amedia Express Passau offers comfortable accommodation just outside Passau, with easy access to the historic city centre. Its modern, soundproof rooms, generous breakfast buffet, and convenient location make it an excellent base before starting your adventure along the Danube Cycle Path.

www.wyndhamhotels.com
Pension Freizeitanlage (Schlögen)

Pension Freizeitanlage Schlögen enjoys a fantastic location directly on the famous Schlögener Schlinge, one of the most spectacular sections of the Danube. Offering comfortable rooms, a traditional restaurant, and beautiful river views, it is an ideal stop along the Danube Cycle Path.

www.freizeitanlage-schloegen.at
Hotel Donauwelle (Linz)

Hotel Donauwelle Linz enjoys a privileged riverside location just a short distance from the centre of Linz. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a wellness area, and a pleasant terrace with panoramic views. Its welcoming atmosphere and convenient location make it an excellent base for exploring the city and its cultural attractions.

www.hotel-donauwelle.at
Hotel-Gasthof Zugbrücke (Bad Kreuzen)

Hotel-Gasthof Zur Zugbrücke is a charming family-run hotel located in the heart of Bad Kreuzen, surrounded by the rolling landscapes of the Strudengau region. Comfortable rooms, warm hospitality, and an excellent restaurant serving regional specialities create a welcoming atmosphere. Many rooms feature balconies with beautiful panoramic views, making it a perfect place to relax and unwind.

www.gasthof-schiefer.at
Hotel Wachauerhof (Melk)

Hotel Wachauerhof is a welcoming family-run hotel located in the heart of Melk, just a short walk from the magnificent Melk Abbey. Combining traditional Austrian hospitality with comfortable rooms and excellent regional cuisine, it offers the perfect base for exploring the historic town and the beautiful Wachau Valley.

https://rs-gastro.at/wachauerhof/
Hotel Schwan (Traismauer)

Hotel Schwan is a charming family-run hotel located in the historic centre of Traismauer, next to the town’s iconic Roman Gate. Combining centuries of tradition with modern comfort, it offers cosy rooms, a peaceful inner courtyard, and excellent regional cuisine. Its welcoming atmosphere and historic setting make it a memorable stop on your journey

www.hotel-schwan.at
B&B Hotel (Vienna)

B&B Hotel Wien-Hbf is a modern and comfortable hotel located close to Vienna Central Station, offering excellent connections to the city's main attractions. Spacious rooms, a friendly atmosphere, and a generous breakfast make it a great choice for exploring Vienna. Its convenient location and modern facilities ensure a relaxing stay in Austria’s vibrant capital.

www.hotel-bb.com

SELECT HOTELS

Hotel Spitzberg**** (Passau)

Hotel Spitzberg is a modern and welcoming hotel located in Passau, just a short walk from the historic city centre. Comfortable rooms, a wellness area with sauna, and a relaxed atmosphere make it an ideal place to unwind. Its convenient location allows guests to easily explore the charming streets, historic landmarks, and vibrant riverside setting of the City of Three Rivers.

www.hotel-spitzberg.de
Hotel-Gasthof Draxler*** (Niederranna)

Hotel-Gasthof Draxler is a cosy family-run hotel nestled in the village of Niederranna, offering beautiful views of the surrounding countryside. Known for its warm hospitality, comfortable rooms, and traditional Austrian cuisine, it provides a peaceful retreat. Its location close to the Rannatal nature reserve and several scenic hiking trails.

www.donau-urlaub.at
Hotel B&B Linz-City-Ost*** (Linz)

B&B Hotel Linz City-Ost is a modern and affordable hotel located in a quiet area of Linz, with easy access to both the city centre and the main cultural attractions. Spacious rooms, a rich breakfast buffet, and excellent public transport connections ensure a comfortable stay.

www.hotel-bb.com
Hotel-Gasthof Traube*** (Grein)

Hotel-Gasthof Traube is a charming traditional hotel located at the foot of Greinburg Castle in the picturesque town of Grein. Its central location makes it perfect for exploring the town’s highlights, including the Historic Theatre of Grein and the beautiful riverside surroundings.

www.zurtraube-grein.at
Hotel Wachau**** (Melk)

Hotel Wachau is a charming family-run 4-star hotel located in Melk, just a short distance from the town centre and the impressive Melk Abbey. The award-winning Wachauer Stube restaurant and the hotel's peaceful setting make it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the region.

www.hotel-wachau.at
Arte Hotel**** (Krems)

Arte Hotel Krems is a stylish contemporary hotel located in the cultural heart of Krems, close to the renowned Kunstmeile and Campus Krems. With modern design, spacious rooms, and a relaxed atmosphere, it offers the perfect blend of comfort and creativity.

www.arte-hotels.at
Hotel Roomz Vienna Prater**** (Vienna)

Roomz Hotel Vienna Prater is a modern 4-star hotel located in Vienna’s lively Leopoldstadt district, close to the famous Prater and its iconic Giant Ferris Wheel. Stylish rooms, contemporary design, and excellent transport connections make it an ideal base for exploring the city.

www.roomz-hotels.com

PRACTICAL INFO

How to get to Vienna

The nearest airport is Vienna airport (VIE)

If you arrive by plane in Vienna you can easily reach the city centre: Check www.viennaairport.com

Check time tables for trains to the city center in: ÖBB

Departure from Vienna or Passau

A bus or train transfer from Vienna to Passau is included in your booking. If you would like to use it on your arrival day, please let us know when booking. If you do not need the transfer, we will apply a discount to your booking.

Travelling by car

In Passau, the car can be parked in a parking garage for the duration of the cycle tour.

Locked and covered car park: € 13 per day
Parking garage with E-connection: € 13 per day plus € 32 one-time charging fee
Fenced and uncovered garage courtyard: € 9 per day

(Parking garage or parking space must be reserved in advance with the bike tour booking, payable on site)

Bike rental options

Bike rental includes: panniers, water bottle, padlock and one handlebar bag per room.

Bikes must be picked up at the rental bike station (details can be found in the travel documents). After the tour, the bikes can be left at the hotel in Vienna.

HYBRID BIKES

21 gears hybrid bikes

E-BIKES

Available electric bicycles for rent

Weather & Climate

Month	Temperature (ºC)	Hours of sunshine	Rain (%)
Apr	5–17 °C	7 h	30 %
May	9–21 °C	8 h	32 %
Jun	13–25°C	8 h	33 %
Jul	15–27 °C	8 h	32 %
Aug	14–27 °C	8 h	29 %
Sep	10–22 °C	7 h	27 %
Oct	6–15 °C	5 h	26 %

What gear do I need?

We recommend comfortable cycling clothing, a lightweight waterproof jacket, and layers for cooler mornings and evenings, especially in spring and autumn. Rain is possible throughout the cycling season, while summer temperatures can be pleasantly warm. Don't forget sunscreen and sunglasses, for sunny days. For the evenings, bring a couple of comfortable outfits and shoes so you can enjoy a walk through the historic centres of Passau, Linz, Melk, or Vienna and relax at a café or restaurant after your ride.

Panniers are included with the bike rental, giving you plenty of space to carry your daily essentials, extra clothing, and anything you pick up along the way.

Difficulty & Terrain

The Danube Cycle Path is one of Europe's easiest long-distance cycling routes. The route follows dedicated cycle paths and quiet riverside roads, with mostly flat terrain and only a few gentle inclines. Daily stages range from approximately 40 to 70 km and can be made even easier with an e-bike.

How to Book & Our Terms

When you make a booking, we first check availability and do our best to confirm all your chosen options. Once everything is confirmed, we’ll contact you. If something isn’t available, we’ll get in touch to discuss alternative options with you.

You can note any preferences or questions in the comments box at the final step of booking. For full details, please see our Terms & Conditions and How to book pages.

WHAT'S INCLUDED

7 nights' accommodation with breakfast
Train ride Tulln – Wien Heiligenstadt (incl. bikes)
Luggage transfer from hotel to hotel (1 piece of luggage per person, max. 23 kg)
Return journey Vienna–Passau by bus or train (€ 30.00 discount for no return trip Vienna-Passau)
Access to the trip in navigation app
Cycling map and toure description (1 per room)
24-hour telephone assistance