Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Self-Guided Vienna to Budapest Three Country Danube Cycle Path Bike Tour

This classic cycling journey links three of Europe’s grand capitals along the Danube: Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. The route combines culture, history and scenic beauty as you follow well-maintained riverside paths through Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Begin in elegant Vienna, known for its music and imperial charm, then explore quiet floodplains and Roman ruins before arriving in Bratislava’s charming old town. Ride through the idyllic islands of Szigetköz and the baroque streets of Györ, then continue past rolling hills to Komarno and the famous Basilica of Esztergom.

The Danube Bend and the artist town of Szentendre offer a delightful finale before reaching vibrant Budapest. With mostly flat terrain, this relaxed tour is ideal for enjoying local flavors, charming villages and the ever-changing river scenery. Each day brings a blend of gentle cycling, cultural treasures and warm Central European hospitality.

Tour Type

Self-Guided

Lodging

Casual+ hotels

Start

Vienna

Finish

Budapest

Level

easy to moderate

Avg. Daily Distance

55 km / 34 mi

Cycling Days

6

Group size

Min. 2, Max. 12

Fly-In

Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Fly-Out

Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD)

Highlights

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Three Capitals in One Journey

Cycle through three of Europe’s most beautiful capitals—Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest—each offering its own unique charm. Explore Vienna’s imperial palaces, Bratislava’s medieval old town, and Budapest’s grand architecture along the Danube.

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Scenic Danube Cycle Path

Ride along one of Europe’s most famous cycling routes, the Danube Cycle Path. The mostly flat, well marked trails make for relaxed and enjoyable cycling through peaceful countryside and river landscapes.

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Historic Towns and Baroque Cities

Discover charming historic towns such as Győr, Komárno, and Esztergom, each rich in history and architectural beauty. Visit grand cathedrals, cobbled squares, and centuries-old fortresses along the way.

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Culinary Delights Along the Danube

Enjoy delicious regional dishes along the route from Austrian pastries to Slovak soups and Hungarian goulash. Each stop offers local wines, hearty meals, and riverside cafés that showcase the authentic taste of Central Europe.

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.

Detailed Itinerary

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Day 1: Vienna

Your adventure begins in Vienna, a city filled with elegance, history, and music. After arriving and settling in, the evening is yours to explore at your own pace. Wander along grand boulevards, admire imperial landmarks, or relax in a cozy café with a slice of Viennese cake.

For an authentic experience, visit a traditional tavern, known as a Heurigen, where locals gather over regional wine and hearty food. Whether you stroll along the Danube or enjoy live music in a local spot, Vienna’s charm and warmth create a perfect start to your Danube cycling journey.

Meals:
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Day 2: Bad Deutsch Altenburg

As you leave Vienna, the cityscape fades into peaceful riverbanks and green forests. The route passes through a quiet nature reserve alive with birdsong and wildflowers, offering calm and fresh air. Stop to explore Carnuntum, an ancient Roman site that brings history to life with well preserved ruins and fascinating exhibits.

The path ends in Bad Deutsch Altenburg, once known for its soothing thermal springs. It is the perfect place to relax after your first day of cycling and soak in the serenity of the Lower Austrian countryside.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 42 km / 26 mi
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Day 3: Bratislava

The ride today is short and lovely, winding between gentle hills and open fields before reaching Slovakia’s welcoming capital. Bratislava blends old world charm with a lively modern atmosphere. Explore its cobbled streets, pastel houses, and inviting squares lined with cafés and shops.

From the hilltop castle, enjoy sweeping views of the Danube and the city’s red rooftops. The relaxed pace lets you savor both cycling and sightseeing, making this an easygoing and enjoyable day.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 26 km / 16 mi
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Day 4: Gÿor

Cycle into Hungary through the wild beauty of the Szigetköz region, where the Danube splits into countless streams and tiny islands. The flat landscape, dotted with quiet villages and winding canals, feels calm and timeless. Birdsong and rippling water accompany your ride.

To shorten the distance, you can take a train from Mosonmagyaróvár to Györ. The city welcomes you with elegant baroque streets, cozy cafés, and charming riverside views. It is a wonderful place to unwind after a scenic day outdoors.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 82 km / 51 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Famulus (4 star)
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Day 5: Komárno

Today’s route takes you through peaceful countryside filled with soft hills, farmland, and quaint villages. The journey ends in Komárno, a border town rich in history and culture. Once beloved by King Matthias, it showcases Hungarian and Slovak influences in its squares and architecture.

Take a walk along the Danube promenade or relax in one of the local cafés. The easy terrain and rural beauty make this a gentle and satisfying day of cycling, perfect for soaking in the rhythm of small-town life.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 57 km / 35 mi
Accommodation: Hotel Peklo (4 star)
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Day 6: Esztergom

Follow quiet riverside paths through picturesque Slovakian villages toward the grand city of Esztergom, known as the “Town of Bishops and Kings.” Along the way, see the remains of the Roman fort Kelemantia and enjoy peaceful countryside views.

Esztergom’s magnificent basilica, Hungary’s largest church, crowns the skyline and offers stunning views over the Danube. This stage blends history, culture, and natural beauty, ending in the scenic Danube Bend, where the river curves dramatically through forested hills.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 52 km / 32 mi
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Day 7: Budapest

Your final ride is one to remember, passing through the gentle hills and charming villages of the Danube Bend. Stop in Szentendre, a colorful artist town filled with galleries and riverside cafés. The route offers wonderful views of the river and countryside before revealing Budapest’s striking skyline.

Depending on the season, finish the journey with a scenic boat ride or a comfortable train trip into the city. It is a fitting finale to a route rich in beauty and culture.

Meals: Breakfast
Cycling Distance: 69 km / 43 mi
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Day 8: Departure

Spend the day discovering Budapest’s vibrant spirit. Visit grand landmarks like the Parliament and Chain Bridge, stroll along the Danube promenade, or unwind in one of the city’s famous thermal baths. Take time to enjoy Hungarian cuisine in a traditional restaurant or café.

With its elegant architecture, warm atmosphere, and scenic river views, Budapest is the perfect ending to your cycling journey. If you’re returning to Vienna, convenient trains connect both capitals every hour, making travel easy and comfortable.

Meals: Breakfast

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.

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ARCOTEL Kaiserwasser Wien

Overlooking the Old Danube and near the UNO City, Hotel Kaiserwasser blends modern comfort with calm surroundings. Guests enjoy spacious rooms, a wellness area with sauna and fitness facilities, and an on-site restaurant serving Austrian and international dishes. Its easy access to Vienna’s historic center by metro makes it ideal for a relaxed start to your cycling adventure.

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Hotel Altes Kloster

Set within a renovated monastery, Hotel Altes Kloster combines centuries-old charm with contemporary design. Located near the Danube and the Slovak border, it offers elegant rooms, vaulted dining halls, and a serene courtyard. Guests appreciate the peaceful atmosphere, regional cuisine, and proximity to Hainburg’s medieval walls and castle ruins—perfect for unwinding after a scenic day of cycling.

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Hotel Park Inn by Radisson

Hotel Park Inn by Radisson, Bratislava Ideally located by the Danube River, Hotel Park Inn Bratislava offers bright, modern rooms and easy access to the city’s old town and castle. The hotel features a fitness area, stylish bar, and all-day dining restaurant. Its central yet tranquil location lets guests explore Bratislava’s cafes, historic landmarks, and riverside paths while enjoying international comfort and attentive service.

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Hotel Famulus

Situated near Győr’s baroque old town, Hotel Famulus provides comfortable rooms and warm hospitality. Guests can unwind in the sauna or enjoy Hungarian and Mediterranean cuisine at the Pódium Restaurant. The hotel’s modern design, easy parking, and convenient location make it a welcoming rest stop between Bratislava and Komárom, with the city’s charming squares and thermal baths close by.

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Hotel Peklo

Hotel Peklo lies near the Danube in Komárno, close to the Elisabeth Bridge connecting Slovakia and Hungary. Known for its friendly staff and spacious rooms, it features a spa area with sauna, Jacuzzi, and massage services. The in-house restaurant serves regional specialties. Its tranquil riverside setting offers cyclists comfort and relaxation after exploring the twin towns along the river.

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Hotel Portobello

Hotel Portobello sits near Esztergom’s picturesque center and offers guests access to the Áquasziget thermal and wellness complex. Rooms are modern and airy, many overlooking the Danube. Guests enjoy direct entry to pools, saunas, and wellness treatments, making it an excellent choice for rejuvenation. It’s within walking distance of the grand Esztergom Basilica and charming cafés along the riverside promenade.

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Novotel Budapest Danube

Located on the Buda side of the Danube, Novotel Budapest Danube features panoramic views of the Parliament building. Modern rooms, a gym, sauna, and the Novo2 Lounge Bar create a restful end to your journey. Guests appreciate the convenient tram and metro connections, riverside paths, and the hotel’s blend of contemporary style and warm service in Hungary’s vibrant capital.

Dates and Prices

Book with Confidence: Enjoy peace of mind — your 20% deposit is fully refundable up to 60 days before departure. See terms & conditions.

Single Supplement

From US $600

E-Bike Upgrade

From US $165



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

A great ride begins with a great bike. Our tours typically include the models listed below, though in some cases—due to height or availability constraints—we may provide an equivalent alternative.

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KTM Life Joy Unisex or similar or similar

trekking

Included in your trip price

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KTM Machina Fun or similar or similar

ebike

Available at a surcharge

Arrival & Departure Details

Arrival

Your tour begins in Vienna, Austria’s elegant capital. The nearest airport is Vienna International Airport (VIE), located about 23 km from your stay.

Booking Location: Taxi services are available at the official taxi ranks outside the arrivals hall. Reliable Operators: Airport Taxi Vienna, Taxi 40100, and Uber operate reliable services. Estimated Fare: A taxi from the airport to central Vienna costs around €35–€45 (approximately 38–48 USD).

Tips:

  • You can also take the City Airport Train (CAT) or S7 S-Bahn for a faster, budget-friendly option.
  • Keep your tour documents handy for hotel check-in.

Departure

Your cycling holiday concludes in Budapest, Hungary. The nearest airport is Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport (BUD), located about 25 km from your stay.

Booking Location: Taxis and shuttles are available from hotels. Reliable Operators: Főtaxi (the airport’s official taxi partner) and Bolt offer dependable service. Estimated Fare: A ride from central Budapest to the airport costs around 8,000–12,000 HUF (approximately €20–€30).

Weather

The best time to cycle from Vienna to Budapest is between May and September, when the weather is warm, days are long, and rainfall is moderate. Average daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 28°C (64°F to 82°F). May and June bring fresh greenery and mild warmth, while July and August are ideal for sunny rides and riverside breaks. September offers cooler, crisp mornings and pleasant afternoons, perfect for relaxed cycling. Early spring and late autumn can be chilly, and winter months are best avoided due to cold winds and shorter daylight hours.

January

Offseason

February

Offseason

March

Offseason

April

Good

May

Best

June

Best

July

Best

August

Best

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:

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

A self-guided bike tour allows you to explore independently using our detailed app-based navigation and pre-arranged logistics. We provide route notes via app, luggage transfers, hotel bookings, and emergency phone support. There is no local guide riding with you, so you manage your own navigation and basic bike upkeep.

For self-guided tours, the fitting process is designed to be simple and flexible while ensuring you start with a bike that suits your measurements.

Before Your Tour

When you book, we ask for your height. This allows our local partners to select the correct frame size and prepare the bike in advance so it’s close to your ideal fit when you arrive.

At the Start of the Tour

The setup experience varies by destination:

  • In some locations, you may receive an in-person handover with basic adjustments made by the local partner.


  • In others, especially in more remote regions, you may receive a bike that is pre-set based on the measurements you provided.


All self-guided bikes include basic tools, so you can make simple adjustments such as raising or lowering the saddle yourself.

During the Tour

You can adjust the bike as you ride using the provided tools. If anything feels off and you need assistance, our local partners are reachable and will support you as promptly as the location allows.

What to Expect

The self-guided bike fit is practical and rider-adjustable. It ensures:

  • You start with the correct frame size

  • You can fine-tune your comfort easily

  • You have the flexibility to adjust as needed along the route


It’s not an in-depth professional fitting, but it’s perfectly suited for multi-day touring comfort.

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.

A mobile holder is not provided. Since you’ll be using your phone for navigation, we strongly recommend bringing your own sturdy, handlebar-mounted mobile holder to ensure a safe and comfortable riding experience.

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. Please note, road bikes do not support panniers.

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.

We are happy to pass on your room preference for a twin or double setup, and our hotel partners do their best to accommodate these requests. However, room configurations are always subject to availability at each property.

On some of our trips—especially those that travel through remote regions or small boutique inns—room types may be limited. In such cases, despite our best efforts, you may need to stay in a double room instead of a twin, or twin instead of a double, depending on what is available.

Given the nature of our journeys and the unique places we visit, we kindly ask for your understanding and support if such adjustments are required.

We will always inform you in advance wherever possible and work closely with our partners to ensure the most comfortable arrangement for your stay.

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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