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 Vienna Loop Danube Bike and Boat tour
This self-guided Passau to Vienna Loop Bike and Boat tour is a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation along Europe’s most iconic river. Starting and ending in Passau, Germany, you’ll cycle through charming villages, vineyards, and historic cities at your own pace while your floating hotel, the MV Lisabelle, sails alongside.
Each day brings a new highlight, from the forested bends of the Schlögener Loop to the cultural gems of Linz, the romantic vineyards of the Wachau Valley, and the imperial grandeur of Vienna. With easy, mostly flat routes and detailed maps provided, it’s ideal for all experience levels.
After your daily rides, return to the comfort of the ship for delicious meals, stunning river views, and a restful night’s sleep. This self-guided journey lets you explore the Danube’s beauty and culture freely, without the stress of luggage or logistics.
Self-Guided
Casual+ hotels
Passau
Passau
easy
22 km / 13 mi
8
Min. 2, Max. 12
Munich International Airport (MUC)
Munich International Airport (MUC)
Highlights
Passau, the Three-River City
The tour starts in Passau, where three rivers meet. You can stroll through the baroque old town to see the impressive cathedral with the world's largest church organ. The adventure begins with a romantic boat trip at sunset.
The Great Loop: Schlögener Donau Schlinge
Experience the breathtaking natural wonder of the Schlögener Schlinge (Great Loop). At the Schlögener Blick observation point, you'll get a stunning view where the Danube doubles back on itself through a gorge. You cycle along the pristine countryside of the Upper Danube valley.
UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley
Cycle through the picturesque Wachau region, a World Cultural Heritage Site. This area is famous for its terraced vineyards, apricot trees, and delicious wines. The charming little town of Dürnstein with its narrow lanes is an absolute highlight.
The Imperial Splendor of Vienna
Explore Vienna, the enchanting waltz metropolis. You'll experience imperial splendor and grandeur, with magnificent buildings telling an impressive story. You can enjoy the sights on a city tour or see the magnificent Ringstraße.
Cultural Highlights in Linz
Visit Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, and a Cultural Capital. Here, you'll find the cathedral, which is Austria's largest church. You can also try modern technologies at the "ARS Electronica Museum".
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 | MV Lisabelle | D | cycling | |
| DAY 2 | Brandstatt | MV Lisabelle | B L D | 45 km / 28 mi | cycling |
| DAY 3 | Linz | MV Lisabelle | B L D | 24 km / 15 mi | cycling |
| DAY 4 | Vienna | MV Lisabelle | B L D | 31 km / 19 mi | cycling |
| DAY 5 | Vienna | MV Lisabelle | B L D | cycling | |
| DAY 6 | Melk | MV Lisabelle | B L D | 37 km / 23 mi | cycling |
| DAY 7 | Mauthausen | MV Lisabelle | B L D | 36 km / 22 mi | cycling |
| DAY 8 | Passau | MV Lisabelle | B | cycling |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Passau
The journey begins in the charming city of Passau, known as the “City of Three Rivers.” Arrive early to wander through its narrow cobblestone streets and admire the baroque architecture. Don’t miss St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to the world’s largest church organ. Stroll along the river promenade or stop at a café for a sweet Bavarian treat.
Your ship for the journey will be the MV Lisabelle. Boarding for the MV Lisabelle begins between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. Once aboard, settle into your cabin and meet your fellow travelers. As evening falls, enjoy a welcome cocktail and dinner as the ship departs Passau. Watch the sunset paint the skyline while cruising into your first night on the Danube.
Day 2: Brandstatt
Start the day with a hearty breakfast before cycling along the Upper Danube Valley. The route follows peaceful towpaths through forests and meadows filled with fresh countryside air. Small villages and rustic inns invite you to pause and savor local fish grilled over open fires. A highlight is the Schlögener Schlinge, where the river dramatically bends back on itself.
Stop at the Schlögener Blick viewpoint for a postcard-perfect panorama. The route is mostly flat, making for an easy and scenic ride. Return to the floating hotel in Brandstatt to relax and enjoy dinner on board.
Day 3: Linz
Today’s shorter ride gives you time to explore Linz, the lively capital of Upper Austria. Cycle through open countryside, following the gentle flow of the Danube into the city. Take a guided walking tour through Linz’s charming old town, with its colorful façades and bustling main square.
Visit Austria’s largest church, the New Cathedral, and learn about the city’s history and innovation. If you’re curious about technology, stop at the ARS Electronica Museum to experience interactive exhibits on the future of science. Linz’s riverside cafés and art-filled streets make it perfect for a relaxing evening stroll before returning to the ship.
Day 4: Vienna
Wake up to scenic views near Tulln, the “City of Flowers,” and start your ride toward Vienna. The route meanders through the rolling landscape along the Danube, with beautiful monastery views at Klosterneuburg. Its 900-year-old baroque dome can be seen from afar and is worth visiting. Pass through Kahlenbergerdorf, a quaint wine village where you can stop for a glass of local white wine.
A short ride through vineyards leads you to panoramic views of Vienna’s skyline. Arrive in the imperial city by evening and enjoy a leisurely dinner on board or explore Vienna’s riverside nightlife.
Day 5: Vienna
Spend the day discovering Vienna at your own pace. You can explore by bike, join a city tour, or hop on a bus to see the highlights. Cycle along the grand Ringstraße, lined with opera houses, museums, and imperial palaces. Stop at a traditional café for coffee and Sachertorte, Vienna’s most famous chocolate cake. Wander through the vibrant Naschmarkt, where international flavors fill the air. For a memorable finale, attend an optional evening concert of waltz and operetta at Schönbrunn Palace.
Day 6: Melk
This is an unforgettable day in the picturesque Wachau region. You will cycle through delightful wine-growing villages surrounded by terraced vineyards and apricot trees. The charming little town of Dürnstein with its narrow lanes is an absolute highlight. In Spitz, one of the most famous wine-growing villages, you can discover the famous Wachau wines
Day 7: Mauthausen
Today’s route is full of variety, blending nature, culture, and history. Begin in Grein, a medieval town with Austria’s oldest theater. Cycle through the scenic Strudengau region, surrounded by gentle hills and riverside beauty. History lovers can visit Clam Castle, sometimes guided by the castle’s lord himself.
Continue to the Celtic Village in Mitterkirchen for a glimpse of ancient life. The ride concludes near Mauthausen, where you can visit the WWII Memorial site for a reflective experience. After a meaningful day, enjoy your final dinner aboard the MV Lisabelle as the ship returns toward Passau.
Day 8: Passau
Enjoy the first rays of sun and the early morning tranquility one last time from the deck of the ship. You will reach Passau with your heart bursting with memories. Disembarkation is scheduled for approximately 11:00 a.m. It is recommended that you do not make any arrangements for onward connections departing before 12:00 p.m.
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.
MV Lisabelle
The MV Lisabelle is a deluxe river cruise ship that serves as a floating hotel for Danube Bike & Boat tours. It can accommodate up to 152 passengers and was renovated in 2019. Key amenities include a Panorama Lounge with a bar, a full-service restaurant, and a spacious Sun Deck, all designed to offer comfort and scenic views along the river.
Superior Category Cabins
This is what a Superior category double occupancy cabin in the MV Lisabelle looks like, Superior category rooms are approximately 14 sq. meter in size, and occupy the middle and upper deck of the boat and come with a french window. Superior cabins have a separable double bed, and all cabins are equipped with shower/WC, hairdryer, satellite TV, safe and individually adjustable air conditioning.
Lounge area of the MV Lisabelle
The MV Lisabelle has a plush lounge with excellent all-round visibility.
MV Lisabelle Cabin Plan
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 $1,250
E-Bike Upgrade
From US $160
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 Life Joy Unisex or similar
Included in your trip price
KTM Macina Fun or similar
Available at a surcharge
What to Expect
We want you to have a fantastic experience on your tour, so we aim to be upfront about what to expect along the way. Here are key details to keep in mind:
Your Boat
Your boat on this journey is the MV Lisabelle.
Here are some technical details about the vessel:
Capacity: 152 passengers Length: 110m Width: 11.40m Draft: 1.50m Cabins: 76 Crew: approx. 35 persons Year: 2000 (rennovated in 2019) Languages on board: German, English Flag: Malta Currency: Euro
Accommodation in the MV Lisabelle
The MV Lisabelle has 3 passenger-decks:
Standard: Main deck, windows not to be opened Comfort: Middle deck, panorama windows not to be opened Superior: Middle + Upper deck, french balcony ECO: front/rear area of the ship (operating noises possible)
The prices listed on our website are for the Superior category rooms with double occupancy. Superior category rooms are approximately 14 sq. meter in size and have separable double beds.
Onboard Amenities
Restaurant with floor-to-ceiling windows offering sweeping views
Elegant panoramic bar and lounge
Welcoming reception and lobby area
Sun deck with 360° views, shaded seating, and a giant chessboard
Library and shared TV area
Elevator connecting the middle and upper decks
Complimentary Wi-Fi (speed and connectivity may vary)
Step into the bright, spacious panorama lounge, where comfortable armchairs and soft-toned sofas create the perfect spot to unwind with a drink while watching the scenery glide by. The sunlit restaurant, surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows, invites you on a culinary journey through the Danube region, celebrating the flavors of its many countries.
The expansive sun deck is another highlight—offering unobstructed views in every direction, cozy shaded corners, and even a life-sized chessboard for a relaxed game in the open air. Enjoy a glass of wine here with fellow travelers as the ever-changing riverscape unfolds around you.
A small onboard boutique offers souvenirs, gifts, and practical items for your cycling adventures—such as helmets, clothing, or bags. The library invites you to borrow a book for a quiet afternoon, while the friendly crew ensures your stay is comfortable, attentive, and memorable.
Wi-Fi is available throughout the vessel (connection strength may vary and charges may apply locally).
Arrival & Departure Details
Shipping Station and Embarkation
Shipping station Passau/Racklau Address: Racklau 3a (Passau - Winterhafen) GPS: 48°34’29.55"N 13°25’49.42"E
Embarkation from 4 - 5 pm
ARRIVAL
Your journey begins in Passau, Germany, a charming town at the meeting point of three rivers. The nearest major airport is Munich International Airport (MUC), which is well connected to international hubs such as London, Paris, Dubai, and New York. From Munich, Passau is about 160 kilometers (100 miles) away and can be reached easily by train, private transfer, or long-distance bus.
From Munich Airport, the easiest option is to take a bus to Freising train station (about 30 minutes), and from there, continue by train to Passau (approximately 2 hours). You can find schedules and further details on the official railway websites:
Arrival by train
Train station: Passau Hbf. The berth is about 3 km from the station. Cabs are available at the station.
Bus from Passau HBF
From Passau HBF: with bus line 8,10 and 11 to the station Stelzhamerstraße - approx. 650m from the shipping station Passau/Racklau.
DEPARTURE
The tour concludes in Passau on the morning of Day 8, with disembarkation scheduled around 11:00 a.m.
Travelers can return to Munich Airport using the same transport options of train, bus, or private transfer. To allow comfortable travel time, it’s best to book onward flights departing after 2:00 p.m. This ensures a smooth and stress-free end to your Danube cycling and cruising adventure.
Weather
The best time to enjoy the tour is from May to September, when the weather is warm, pleasant, and perfect for cycling. During these months, daytime temperatures range from 20–27°C (68–81°F) with plenty of sunshine and light breezes. April and October can be cooler, around 12–18°C (54–64°F), offering quieter paths but occasional rain. Winter months are unsuitable for cycling due to cold temperatures and limited daylight.
January
Offseason
February
Offseason
March
Offseason
April
Mixed
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Good
October
Mixed
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
The terrain is mostly flat for the entirety of the tour, with a few rolling hills.
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.
Reviews from our friends
You may also like
Self-Guided Passau to Vienna Beer and Wine Danube Cycle Path Bike Tour
8 daysfrom$1,295/person