Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Self-Guided Passau to Budapest Danube Cycle Path Four Country E-Bike Tour
This e-bike tour from Passau to Budapest takes you across four countries in the heart of Europe. We start from Passau in Germany, pass through Austria and Slovakia, before ending in Hungary. Along the way, we ride through three iconic central European capitals - Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest.
Kick off your adventure in the historic city of Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers converge, and follow the charming cycle path.
Along the way, discover natural wonders like the Schlögener Schlinge, explore the vibrant city of Linz, and soak in the imperial elegance of Vienna. Delight in the region’s culinary treasures, from traditional Bavarian dishes to Austrian and Hungarian specialties.
Ride across the expansive Pannonian Plain where wide fields and untouched nature offer a refreshing change. Conclude your journey in Budapest, the pearl of the Danube, famous for its thermal baths, scenic promenade, and lively city atmosphere.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Passau
Budapest
moderate to challenging
83 km / 51 mi
8
Min. 2, Max. 12
Munich Airport (MUC)
Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)
Highlights

4 countries and 3 capitals
Ride through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Budapest, and the charming capital cities of Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest.

The Abbey of Melk
Visit the magnificent Abbey of Melk with its ornate library, grand halls, and stunning views of the Danube Valley. This historic monastery is a masterpiece of baroque architecture and a must-see on the Danube cycling route.

Esztergom: Historic Heart of Hungary
Visit Esztergom, a riverside city known for its majestic basilica, the largest church in Hungary. Explore its royal heritage, charming streets, and stunning views of the Danube, making it a must see stop on the cycling route.

Schlögener Schlinge
Witness the breathtaking Schlögener Loop, where the Danube performs a dramatic 180-degree turn between granite cliffs. This natural wonder is one of the most photographed spots along the entire river.
Itinerary
Brief Itinerary
Meals are indicated as B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner.
Listed hotels are subject to availability and may be replaced with similar alternatives of equal standard.
| Day | Place | Casual+ Inns | Meals | Distance | Activity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DAY 1 | Passau | Hotel Passauer Wolf (4-star) | B | ||
| DAY 2 | Eferdinger Becken | Landgasthof dieplinger Hotel (4-star) | B | 70 km / 43 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Strudengau | Hotel Aumühle (4-star) | B | 86 km / 53 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Krems | Hotel Steigenberger Krems (4-star) | B | 90 km / 56 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Vienna | Arcotel Kaiserwasser Hotel (4-star) | B | 80 km / 50 mi | cycling |
| DAY 6 | Bratislava | Hotel Park Inn Bratislava (4-star) | B | 68 km / 42 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Györ | Hotel Famulus (4-star) | B | 82 km / 51 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Esztergom | Hotel Szent Adalbert (4-star) | B | 95 km / 59 mi | cycling |
| DAY 9 | Budapest | Novotel Budapest Danube (4-star) | B | 91 km / 57 mi | cycling |
| DAY 10 | Departure | B |
Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Passau
Arrive individually in the charming city of Passau, beautifully known as the “City of Three Rivers.” After settling in, take the opportunity to explore at your own pace. Wander through the picturesque old town, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet, creating stunning waterfront views. You can spend the remaining time enjoying a leisurely city tour and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere of this historic riverside gem.

Day 2: Eferdinger Becken
Your adventure begins as you pedal along the peaceful banks of the Danube, surrounded by lush scenery and fresh river air. The highlight of the day awaits at the stunning Schlögener Loop, where the Danube performs a breathtaking 180-degree turn through the rugged granite cliffs of the Mühlviertel region.
After soaking in this spectacular view, hop on a short ferry ride to the southern bank (ferry fare not included) and continue cycling through the charming riverside town of Aschach, known for its cozy cafés and vibrant atmosphere. The day ends in the tranquil village of Brandstatt, where you can unwind after your first day on the trail. Rental bikes are available for pick-up in Passau from 9:00 a.m. onward.

Day 3: Strudengau
Set off through the beautiful landscapes of Upper Austria, with your first stop in Linz, the state capital full of art, history, and modern energy. Stroll through its lively streets or visit one of its museums before continuing along the Danube. Cycle through the picturesque Strudengau region, where the river winds between green hills and villages. End your day in Grein, a historic town on the Danube, where you can visit Greinburg Castle and Austria’s oldest city theatre.

Day 4: Krems
Cycle through the scenic Nibelungengau region to Pöchlarn, home to the important Nibelungen monument and the birthplace of the renowned artist Oskar Kokoschka. Continue past the impressive Benedictine Abbey of Melk and ride through the rolling hills and vineyards of the Wachau Valley. Pass through the romantic towns of Spitz, Weissenkirchen, and Dürnstein, where you can admire the stunning Dürnstein ruins and visit the historic jail where King Richard the Lionheart was once held. Your day ends in the thousand-year-old wine city of Krems, where you can rest and enjoy a peaceful evening after a full day of cycling.

Day 5: Vienna
Today’s cycling takes you through the wide and scenic Tullner fields, offering a peaceful ride through the Austrian countryside. As you approach the edge of the Vienna Woods, the rolling foothills come into view, along with the impressive castle of Greifenstein. Spot the striking spires of the Klosterneuburg Monastery before reaching Vienna, the Austrian capital and city of Waltz, full of history, music, and charm. Conclude your ride at your hotel in Vienna, where rental eBikes will be returned, and enjoy some well-deserved rest after the day’s journey.

Day 6: Bratislava
Just outside Vienna, enter the Donauauen National Park, an idyllic landscape rich in flora and fauna. Cycle past the historic Orth Castle and Eckartsau Castle before reaching the spa town of Bad Deutsch Altenburg, where traces of Roman history can still be seen.
Continue along the Danube to the Slovakian capital, Bratislava, which enchants with its dreamy old town and numerous magnificent buildings. The Bratislava Castle towers above the river, offering a perfect view of the city and its surroundings.

Day 7: Györ
Ride through the Schüttinsel, a paradise for birds and fish, and explore the untouched landscape with small islands and charming farming villages. Navigate a labyrinth of Danube side arms before reaching Györ, located at the confluence of three rivers. The city captivates visitors with its elegant baroque old town, offering a blend of history and charm for a relaxing evening.

Day 8: Esztergom
Today’s ride takes you through gently rolling farmland back to the Danube at the divided town of Komarom, once a favorite of King Matthias. Cycle along the Slovakian bank of the river on quiet embankment paths and low-traffic side roads, passing small farming villages along the way. You will also see the Roman fort of Kelemantia before arriving in Esztergom, an episcopal and royal city. Its magnificent basilica, the largest church in Hungary, is a glittering highlight of the tour.
Recommendation: For a shorter ride, take the comfortable train from Györ to Komarom. Train tickets are available from ticket machines at the station. This option reduces today’s cycling distance to approximately 52 km.

Day 9: Budapest
Cycle through the hilly landscapes of the scenic Danube Bend, passing small, idyllic villages along the way. Visit the charming artists’ town of Szentendre, known for its colorful streets, galleries, and nearby farm museum. Continue along the river and enjoy fantastic views as you approach Budapest, Hungary’s vibrant and historic capital.

Day 10: Departure
Spend the morning at leisure, exploring the city or simply relaxing. Budapest offers excellent train connections to Vienna every hour, with a journey time of approximately three hours. Buses are also available for convenient access to Vienna Airport for onward travel.
Ready to plan your adventure? Download a print-ready detailed itinerary.
Map
Accommodation
Each hotel has been thoughtfully selected to ensure an exceptional and memorable experience for guests. Should the listed hotel be unavailable, we will ensure an alternative of similar quality.

Hotel Passauer Wolf (4-star)

Landgasthof dieplinger Hotel (4-star)

Hotel Aumühle (4-star)

Landgasthof Zur Zugbrücke (4-star)

Hotel Steigenberger Krems (4-star)

Hotel zum Goldenen Engel (4-star)

Arcotel Kaiserwasser Hotel (4-star)

Arcotel Donauzentrum Hotel (4-star)

Hotel Park Inn Bratislava (4-star)

Hotel Famulus (4-star)

Hotel Ibis Györ (3-star)

Hotel Szent Adalbert (4-star)

Hotel Portobello (4-star)

Novotel Budapest Danube (4-star)

Hotel Mercure Castle Hill (4-star)
Dates and Prices
Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 10% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.
Single Supplement
From US $750
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $230
Couldn't find a trip with convenient dates?
Open your date as a join-in tour or customize further as a private one.
Essential Info
Inclusions
LODGING
All hotels as mentioned in the tour details or similar (subject to availability).
bike
Immaculately maintained bike with helmet, suited to a terrain.
Luggage Transfer
Transportation of luggage from one hotel to another.
meals
Meals as per itinerary. Guests are given the opportunity to dine on their own so that they discover a location independently.
Exclusions
Airport pickup
We recommend to book direclty from airport.
Airport drop
We recommend to book direclty from your last hotel.
Beverages
Beverages such as alcohol, tea, coffee, juice at a hotel or restaurant.
Gratuity
Gratuities for your guide team are not included in the trip price.
Bikes
When you have a road and the thrill of a journey ahead of you, it’s imperative to have a good bike to enjoy it. Our fleet majorly consist of the below bikes as a part of this tour. However, sometimes due to height or availability constraints, we may provide a different but similar quality bike.

KTM Macina Fun (Unisex) or similar
Available at a surcharge

KTM Macina Fun (Men) or similar
Available at a surcharge
Arrival & Departure Details
Arrival -
Your tour starts in Passau, Germany. The closest major international airport is Munich Airport (MUC).
Arrival Airport: Munich Airport (MUC) Travel Distance: approx. 160 km to Passau Getting There:
- By Train: Regular trains run from Munich Airport to Passau via Munich Central Station. Total travel time is around 2 hours.
- By Private Transfer: Taxis and pre-booked shuttles are available; the journey takes around 2 hours.
Departue -
Your cycling holiday concludes in Budapest, Hungary. The nearest airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), located about 25 km from your stay. You can book a taxi to the airport from your hotel.
Weather
The Danube Cycle Route from Passau to Budapest offers the perfect blend of scenery and climate, making your journey a true delight. Spring (March to May) and early autumn (September to October) are ideal, with mild temperatures, blooming landscapes, and gentle breezes that make cycling a joy. Summer (June to August) is warm and sunny, perfect for long daylight rides, though popular spots may be lively with tourists.
Winter (November to February) brings a quiet charm with crisp air and occasional snow, but cycling is not recommended. No matter when you go, the changing seasons paint the riverside towns, rolling vineyards, and historic cities with their own unique colors, turning every mile into an unforgettable experience.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Mixed
April
Good
May
Best
June
Best
July
Good
August
Good
September
Best
October
Good
November
Offseason
December
Offseason
Best
Good
Mixed
Offseason
What to Pack
Packing smart is essential for a safe and enjoyable cycling adventure. From essential biking gear to clothing and travel necessities, this guide ensures you're prepared for any terrain or climate.
Recommended Bicycling Clothes & Gear
- Bicycling shoes or stiff-soled sneakers.
- Padded cycling shorts.
- Short-fingered cycling gloves (personal gloves are ideal).
- Brightly colored cycling jerseys or synthetic T-shirts for visibility.
- Synthetic cycling socks.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Personal helmet (recommended even though provided).
- Personal saddle (optional for added comfort).
- Rain jacket or windbreaker.
- Cycling water bottle (to reduce plastic waste).
Note: Helmets, gloves, and water bottles are personal items, so bringing your own is recommended for maximum comfort and hygiene.
Clothing
- Light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen.
- Full-sleeved clothing for sun protection.
- Warm layers for chilly mornings and evenings (if traveling in winter).
- Comfortable footwear for non-cycling time.
- Bring a compact rain jacket in case of sudden weather changes.
- Ethnic or modest clothing for exploring towns and temples.
Other Necessities
- Toiletries: Basic hygiene essentials, including insect/mosquito repellent and sunscreen.
- Hand sanitizer and wet wipes.
- Plug socket adaptor.
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting or desert landscapes.
Pro Tips
- Pack light but plan for the varying temperatures: warm days, chilly evenings, and desert winds.
- Use brightly colored clothing for visibility on roads.
- Pack light to leave room for shopping.
Luggage
Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one carry-on bag. Mark your luggage with your name, address, and phone number.
Visa Information
Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:
- UK Residents: Stay informed by reviewing the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice.
- US Residents: Access vital travel tips and updates through the US Department of State Travel Advice.
- Australian Residents: Plan ahead with the latest updates on the Smart Traveller website.
- Canadian Residents: Find comprehensive travel and visa guidance on the Government of Canada's Travel Advice and Advisories.
- New Zealand Residents: Get practical travel advice on the New Zealand SafeTravel website
- Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.
Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Stay proactive by checking for the latest updates to ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
Insurance
Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.
We recommend to purchase adequate travel insurance in order to participate in our tours and protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance—including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses (including Covid-19), and personal liability—travel with greater peace of mind.
Can I use my credit card insurance?
Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Ensure you have an emergency contact number and policy number available.
When should I buy travel insurance?
Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.
Is proof of travel insurance required?
Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact via our reservation form. This is mandatory. If you cannot provide proof, you’ll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.
Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?
We do not sell travel insurance directly, as we believe our customers should have the freedom to choose a policy that best suits their needs. However, we recommend Insured Nomads as a great starting point.
Frequently Asked Questions
We provide an app-based navigation system that includes all your daily routes, points of interest, and important trip notes. You can download the app to your phone in advance, and we’ll share your login details before your trip.
Yes. Once the routes are downloaded, the app works completely offline, so you don’t need mobile data while riding. You can even use it in airplane mode, which helps conserve your phone’s battery.
To extend battery life further, we recommend reducing screen brightness and carrying a small power bank for longer days on the trail.
We do not provide GPX files separately. All routes are available within our navigation app, which is the most reliable and up-to-date source for your trip. Once you receive the login details for the navigation app — generally shared about one month before your departure — you can explore the routes and, if needed, also download the GPX files directly from the app for use with your personal Garmin or GPS device. We recommend getting familiar with the app and its features before your tour starts to ensure a smooth experience on the road.
For minor issues like punctures, the guests are provided with a self-repair kit, which includes tools to help them fix such minor issues. The exact contents of the kit depend on the type of bike, terrain and other factors, and will be communicated to you closer to your date of departure. However, usually such a kit includes tire levers, a spare tube, a patch kit, and a pump, allowing riders to fix the problem themselves. In some cases, the kit may only include a pump or a repair foam.
Self-guided riders are expected to be independent in handling these minor problems. While there are some bike shops along the route, they are limited. If you are unsure about how to repair a puncture, we recommend considering a guided or van-supported trip instead.
For major mechanical failures, such as a cable break, the guests can contact the emergency support number provided. The support team will help coordinate a solution, which could include dispatching a local mechanic, suggesting a nearby bicycle shop for repairs, or sending a vehicle to pick up the rider. Please note that all support services will be provided on a chargeable basis, and assistance may take time, so we advise being prepared for potential delays.
Yes, each rider will be provided with at least one pannier to carry personal items during the tour.
Yes, we provide helmets. However, we recommend that guests try to bring their own helmets, as these are items of a personal nature.
Your luggage will be picked up at the reception of your hotel every morning by 9.00am.
It will be delivered to the next hotel before 5pm. Most of the time it is delivered in the early afternoon itself.
We recommend that you carry no more than 2 bags together weighing up to 15kgs for this trip. You can have one large bag, which contains all your clothing and gear needed for the trip, and one small bag that contains essential items you will frequently need such as passport etc. Please note that once a bag gets loaded in the luggage transfer vehicle, you may not have access to it till later in the evening when you reach the hotel for the night.
We provide local support by phone for any medical emergencies during the tour. Our local team will assist in coordinating medical care, guiding you to the nearest healthcare facility, and ensuring you receive the necessary support. The national emergency system is reliable and effective, and in the event of a serious accident, contacting them is highly recommended. However, due to our distance from certain areas, response times may be longer. We strongly recommend having appropriate travel insurance, and we will do everything we can to ensure your safety and well-being during an emergency.
Airport transfers are not included unless specifically mentioned in your trip inclusions.
For airport pickup, we recommend booking directly from the airport upon arrival — most airports have reliable taxi, shuttle, or app-based options.
For airport drop, please book a transfer through your last hotel — they can easily arrange it for you.
We focus on delivering exceptional experiences during your tour. For logistical simplicity and flexibility, we do not handle pre- or post-tour hotel bookings. However, we’re happy to share a list of recommended hotels near the starting and ending points of your trip so you can plan your stay independently.
The fitness level required for each trip is indicated by the "level" of the tour, which in turn is mentioned on each tour page right next to the price and the trip duration.
Easy: The terrain is mostly flat with a few gentle climbs.
Moderate: The terrain is either mostly flat or consists of rolling hills with a few challenging climbs. There could also be a few days with longer riding distances of up to 75 kms (45 miles)
Difficult: The terrain is mostly hilly with strong elevation gains and/or has long days on the bike. Such trips are recommended for intermediate to advanced cyclists.
Please note that we usually bike around 4-5 hours per day irrespective of the level of the trip.
You can exchange currency at the airport itself, or at ATMs in larger cities. Most commercial establishments will accept international credit cards for payments, though its good to carry some local currency with you at all times.
The meeting time on Day 1 is mentioned in your travel planner shared with you. You can arrive either on the morning of Day 1 depending on the meeting time, or book a pre-tour night to arrive a day earlier.
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