Danube Discovery: Pedaling from Germany to Austria
Self guided from EUR € 838
Bike and Boat Tour aboard Prinzessin Katharina or SE-Manon
Countries: Austria and Germany
Tap above to jump to different sections of this tour
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Experience the joy of a bike tour along the Danube between Passau and Vienna
Embark on an extraordinary bike and boat tour along the scenic Danube River! Enjoy leisurely rides through lush green riverbanks and charming villages, witness the awe-inspiring "Great Loop," and immerse yourself in the enchanting Wachau region with its vineyard terraces and captivating castles.
Arriving in Vienna, a city beyond words, you'll have the opportunity to explore iconic landmarks like St. Stephen's Cathedral and City Hall during delightful sightseeing tours by bike. Delight in a cultural and culinary adventure at the renowned Naschmarkt, unwind at cozy coffee houses, and savor the ambiance of traditional Viennese wine taverns in the suburbs.
This tour's highlights include Passau, the City of 3 rivers, the captivating Schloegen Danube Loop, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wachau, Linz - the capital of Upper Austria - and Vienna, a cosmopolitan city teeming with treasures.
Highlights
- Passau, 'City of Three Rivers'
- Schlögener Donauschlinge - the 'Great Loop'
- Cultural capital of Linz
- World Cultural Heritage Site of Wachau
- Vienna, 'City of Dreams'
Learn More
Learn more about self-guided tours.
Interested in adding to your itinerary? Take a look at our cycling day tours in Munich and Vienna. -
Traveler photos
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Daily program
Please note that the ship on which you are accommodated may look like a floating hotel, but it is still a working barge and is perceptible to engine and operational noises. Some boats do need to travel by night in order to cross the distances listed in the itinerary. As such, please bring earplugs if you are a light sleeper or sensitive to noise.
In situations involving high or low water levels, or other factors beyond the operator's control, it may be necessary to adjust the itinerary. This could include bus transfers or, in extreme cases, last-minute cancellations to ensure the safety of passengers and crew. In such instances, no legal rights shall be established. Water level variations are considered force majeure. This also applies to unannounced local repairs on locks or bridges, as well as unexpected mechanical issues with the ship's engines or power units.-
Day 1: Passau - Engelhartszell
Boarding takes place around 4 - 5 pm in the "City of Three Rivers", Passau. The boat departs at 7 pm cruising to Engelhartszell while you enjoy your first dinner on board.Day 2: Engelhartszell - "Great Loop" - Brandstatt - Linz (27-29 miles/44-47 km)
Explore the Trappist monastery in Engelhartszell and indulge in their unique cordials and liqueurs, rumored to possess special healing properties. Continuing downstream, you'll encounter charming villages nestled amidst stunning natural scenery. For a delightful change of pace, you can opt for the charming little ferry boat to traverse the romantic Schlögener loop, where the river takes a sharp 180-degree turn (approximately €6 per person). From Brandstatt, the boat will take you to Linz. Don't miss the chance to discover Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, while riding the bright yellow City-Express.Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein (22 - 25 miles/36 - 40 km)
This morning you'll embark on an early morning cruise to Mauthausen, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the memorial KZ-Mauthausen. As you journey on, explore the historical Celtic town of Mitterkirchen, providing a glimpse into the past. The route leads through the fertile Machland region, and the day's destination is the charming town of Grein, known as "the pearl of the Strudengau" for its picturesque setting. Don't miss the chance to visit the impressive Castle of Greinburg while in Grein (closed on Mondays - can only be visited as part of an optional excursion).Day 4: Grein - Melk - Tulln (32 miles/51 km)
A variety of rich landscapes await. Starting with the Strudengau, a narrow section of the Danube which challeneged skippers in the past. The valley widens as you continue from Persenbeug, and the bike tour takes you to the splendid baroque monastery of the Benedictine brethren in Melk. Back onboard the ship, you can relish the sunset and the enchanting evening lights of the Wachau region. During the night, the ship cruises to Tulln, renowned for its abundant market gardens and as the birthplace of the famous Art Nouveau artist Egon Schiele.Day 5: Tulln - Vienna-Nussdorf (20-24 miles/32-39 km)
Nestled in a stunning landscape, just at the entrance of Vienna, you'll find the magnificent Klosterneuburg monastery. Its 900-year-old baroque building, crowned by a striking cupola, can be spotted from afar. Don't miss a visit to "Kahlenbergerdorf," renowned for its charming wine taverns. Take a leisurely walk through the vineyards and treat yourself to a breathtaking panoramic view of Vienna.Day 6: Vienna-Nussdorf (rest day)
Enjoy a rest day in Vienna. Be sure to visit St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg, along with the beautiful "Ringstraße" boulevard, showcasing attractions like the Burgtheater, State Opera House, and historic town hall. In the afternoon, take your time to wander around or indulge in one of the famous Viennese coffee bars. Later, the ship will cruise to Dürnstein or Rossatz during the night.Day 7: Wachau - Pöchlarn (25 - 31 miles/40 - 50 km)
Your last cycling day is a special highlight! Amidst small dreamy villages, apricot trees, vineyards, castles, monasteries, and ruins, this gentle hilly landscape enchants the young and old. A powerful ruin looms above the small Baroque town of Dürnstein, while the blue tower of the monastery church is a landmark of Wachau. In the evening, farewell dinner and cocktail to close out this spectacular bike tour on the Danube.Day 8: Departure from Passau
All good things must come to an end! The arrival in Passau is expected around 10 am, with disembarkation taking place half an hour later. We suggest arranging connecting trips/travel from 1:30 onwards. -
Day 1: Passau - Engelhartszell
Boarding takes place around 4 - 5 pm in the "City of Three Rivers", Passau. The boat departs at 7 pm cruising to Engelhartszell while you enjoy your first dinner on board.Day 2: Engelhartszell - Aschach - "Great Loop" - Linz (25-28 miles/40-46 km)
Explore the Trappist monastery in Engelhartszell and indulge in their unique cordials and liqueurs, rumored to possess special healing properties. Continuing downstream, you'll encounter charming villages nestled amidst stunning natural scenery. For a delightful change of pace, you can opt for the charming little ferry boat to traverse the romantic Schlögener loop, where the river takes a sharp 180-degree turn (approximately €6 per person). From Aschach, the boat will take you to Linz. Don't miss the chance to discover Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, while riding the bright yellow City-Express.Day 3: Linz - Mauthausen - Grein (22 - 25 miles/36 - 40 km)
This morning you'll embark on an early morning cruise to Mauthausen, where you'll have the opportunity to visit the memorial KZ-Mauthausen. As you journey on, explore the historical Celtic town of Mitterkirchen, providing a glimpse into the past. The route leads through the fertile Machland region, and the day's destination is the charming town of Grein, known as "the pearl of the Strudengau" for its picturesque setting. Don't miss the chance to visit the impressive Castle of Greinburg while in Grein (closed on Mondays - can only be visited as part of an optional excursion).Day 4: Grein - Melk - Tulln (32 miles/51 km)
A variety of rich landscapes await. Starting with the Strudengau, a narrow section of the Danube which challeneged skippers in the past. The valley widens as you continue from Persenbeug, and the bike tour takes you to the splendid baroque monastery of the Benedictine brethren in Melk. Back onboard the ship, you can relish the sunset and the enchanting evening lights of the Wachau region. During the night, the ship cruises to Tulln, renowned for its abundant market gardens and as the birthplace of the famous Art Nouveau artist Egon Schiele.Day 5: Tulln - Vienna-Nussdorf (20-24 miles/32-38 km)
Nestled in a stunning landscape, just at the entrance of Vienna, you'll find the magnificent Klosterneuburg monastery. Its 900-year-old baroque building, crowned by a striking cupola, can be spotted from afar. Don't miss a visit to "Kahlenbergerdorf," renowned for its charming wine taverns. Take a leisurely walk through the vineyards and treat yourself to a breathtaking panoramic view of Vienna.Day 6: Vienna-Nussdorf (rest day)
Enjoy a rest day in Vienna. Be sure to visit St. Stephen's Cathedral and the Hofburg, along with the beautiful "Ringstraße" boulevard, showcasing attractions like the Burgtheater, State Opera House, and historic town hall. In the afternoon, take your time to wander around or indulge in one of the famous Viennese coffee bars. Later, the ship will cruise to Dürnstein or Rossatz during the night.Day 7: Wachau - Pöchlarn (25 - 31 miles/40 - 50 km)
Your last cycling day is a special highlight! Amidst small dreamy villages, apricot trees, vineyards, castles, monasteries, and ruins, this gentle hilly landscape enchants the young and old. A powerful ruin looms above the small Baroque town of Dürnstein, while the blue tower of the monastery church is a landmark of Wachau. In the evening, farewell dinner and cocktail to close out this spectacular bike tour on the Danube.Day 8: Departure from Passau
All good things must come to an end! The arrival in Passau is expected around 11 am, with disembarkation taking place half an hour later. We suggest arranging connecting trips/travel from 1:30 onwards.
We reserve the right to make changes to the routing and program. In case of flood or low tide, the shipping company reserves the right to bridge parts of passages by buses.
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Accommodation
Boats
- All cabins are outside cabins
- Comfortable salon
- Bar area
- Library corner
- Massage parlor
- Partially covered sundeck
- Restaurant with panoramic windows
- Spa facilities including Sauna, whirlpool, and Fitness Area
- Spacious sundeck -Partially covered with plenty of deckchairs
- Outdoor pool (8.70 m x 4.50 m)
- Reading lounge and Library
- Panoramic salon
- Elevator between upper and middle deck**
Prinzessin Katharina
The Prinzessin Katharina is an elegant river cruiser along the Danube. On board you can expect a friendly crew, excellent cuisine, and tasteful decor. Read more
Overview
SE-Manon
The SE-Manon was built in 1999 and updated in 2019. The ship is 360 feet long (110m) and can accommodate up to 150 passengers with 30 crew in attendance.On board you will find a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. Read more
Overview
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Dates & Prices
Questions about pricing or options? Call +1-215-613-0874 to talk to a Tour Advisor now.
SE-Manon
- Season A 2025 Jul 18, 25; Aug 22, 29 from € 11382025 departures: Jul 18, 25; Aug 22, 29
2025 July Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 August Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Main deck, 2-bed cabin € 1138 Middle deck, 2-bed cabin € 1338 Upper deck, 2-bed cabin € 1488 Single occupancy Price Main deck, 2-bed cabin for single use € 1558 Middle deck, 2-bed cabin for single use € 1838 Upper deck, 2-bed cabin for single use € 2048 Bike rentals Price Standard touring bike 7-speed with hand brakesIncluded Electric bike € 110 Helmet for purchase€ 40 Please note: Limited number of double cabins available for single use. - Extra options
Discount percent Children's discount 13y or younger, sharing a cabin with an adultDiscount 20%
Prinzessin Katharina
- Season A 2025 Apr 19 from € 8382025 departures: Apr 19
2025 April Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Main deck 2-bed Eco* cabin € 838 2-bed cabin € 988 Upper deck 2-bed cabin € 1188 Triple occupancy Price Upper deck 3-bed cabin € 988 Single occupancy Price Main deck 1-bed cabin € 1288 2-bed Eco* cabin, for single use € 1138 2-bed cabin, for single use € 1348 Upper deck 1-bed cabin € 1488 2-bed cabin, for single use € 1628 Bike rentals Price Standard touring bike 7-speed with hand brakesIncluded Electric bike € 110 Helmet for purchase€ 40 * Engine and generator noise may be noticeable when in motionPlease note: Limited number of double cabins available for single use. - Season B 2025 May 3, Sep 20 from € 9382025 departures: May 3, Sep 20
2025 May Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 September Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Main deck 2-bed Eco* cabin € 938 2-bed cabin € 1088 Upper deck 2-bed cabin € 1288 Triple occupancy Price Upper deck 3-bed cabin € 1088 Single occupancy Price Main deck 1-bed cabin € 1388 2-bed Eco* cabin, for single use € 1278 2-bed cabin, for single use € 1488 Upper deck 1-bed cabin € 1588 2-bed cabin, for single use € 1768 Bike rentals Price Standard touring bike 7-speed with hand brakesIncluded Electric bike € 110 Helmet for purchase€ 40 * Engine and generator noise may be noticeable when in motionPlease note: Limited number of double cabins available for single use. - Season C 2025 May 17, Jun 7, 14, 21, 28; Jul 5, 12; Aug 2, 9, 16; Sep 13 from € 10382025 departures: May 17, Jun 7, 14, 21, 28; Jul 5, 12; Aug 2, 9, 16; Sep 13
2025 May Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 June Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 July Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 August Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat 2025 September Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Double occupancy Main deck 2-bed Eco* cabin € 1038 2-bed cabin € 1138 Upper deck 2-bed cabin € 1388 Triple occupancy Price Upper deck 3-bed cabin € 1188 Single occupancy Price Main deck 1-bed cabin € 1438 2-bed Eco* cabin, for single use € 1418 2-bed cabin, for single use € 1558 Upper deck 1-bed cabin € 1688 2-bed cabin, for single use € 1908 Bike rentals Price Standard touring bike 7-speed with hand brakesIncluded Electric bike € 110 Helmet for purchase€ 40 * Engine and generator noise may be noticeable when in motionPlease note: Limited number of double cabins available for single use. - Extra options
Discount percent Children's discount 13y or younger, sharing triple with two adultsDiscount 20%
Included services
- 7 nights in selected cabin with private facilities
- Standard bike rental
- Program according to the itinerary to and from Passau
- All passenger fees and port fees
- Captain greeting and Welcome-Drink
- Daily cabin cleaning (change of towels and bedding as necessary)
- 7x breakfast, 6x packed lunch for cyclists or lunch snack on board (non-cyclists), 6x afternoon coffee break, 6x three-course-dinner and 1x farewell-dinner with farewell drink
- Daily informational meeting
- Digital route documents and navigational app, including GPS Tracks
- Tour guide on board (does not cycle with the group)
- Season A 2025 Jul 18, 25; Aug 22, 29 from € 1138
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Map
Maps are for information purposes only and reflect typical routes between overnight locations. They may not reflect your actual route.
Surface and terrain
The cycle route is completely flat, at times on a gentle downhill slope, and is ideal for bikers with less experience.
How to get there
Tour start and end
Nearest airport Munich, Germany
Nearest train station: Passau, GermanyTips for getting to and from your tour.
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Reviews
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★★★★★ Kathy 9 months ago
Nice trip! We had a really good time.
We've done numerous bike trips around Europe but wanted to try a bike and boat this time. It's not a deluxe trip, but exceeded our expectations. The Prinzessin Katharina is older, but very well maintained, with traditional style decor. We had stayed in Passau the night prior and the taxi ride to the harbor was quick and easy. We had an upper level cabin, which was compact but had space to move around and decent storage. I peaked into the main deck cabins as well, which were laid out a little differently but seemed about the same size, with maybe a little less closet space. Don't excpect many outlets for charging your devices, as there are only a couple in the cabin. There is also a restaurant and a lounge with a bar on the upper deck. The sun deck is spacious, with lots of loungers, tables and chairs, and some covered space for shade.
There is assigned seating in the dining room for the whole trip. Most of the passengers were German speaking, but they made a good effort to put English speaking guests at the same table. Breakfast was a pretty standard buffet, with breads, pastries, fruits and juices, as well as a few warm dishes with eggs, sausage, bacon. They also let you pack a lunch from the buffet choices. The dinner menu had 3 or 4 entree choices each night, along with a couple of starters and a couple of desserts. The food, while not gourmet, was very good. No beverages were included, so you had to pay even to have water with your dinner. There is a good selection of wine and cocktails available from the bar. Coffee and tea were provided at breakfast.
The daily meetings to provide info on the next day's route were useful, with separate meetings provided for German and English. As expected, the bike routes kept mostly to dedicated bike paths or segregated bike lanes along roads. You rarely have to deal with much traffic, and the route is generally very easy to follow. The rental bikes provided were quite good, and comfortable.
We only did one of their optional tours, going up to Schloss Greinburg in Grein. On a day when the schloss is normally closed, the tour company was able to arrange this tour, and we enjoyed it.
What really made the trip so good was the crew and all of their efforts. The dining room and bar servers, housekeeping, the front desk staff, and the deck crew responsible for loading and unloading all the bikes were all outstanding, friendly and helpful. Our cruise director Monica did a great job keeping eveything running smoothly.
We enjoyed our trip despite some unseasonably cold, rainy and windy weather part of the time. We're looking forward to planning another bike and boat trip.- What was the date of your tour?
- April 2024
- How many tours have you completed?
- 8
- Difficulty (actual vs. expected)?
- As expected
- Who is this tour suitable for?
- First-time bike tourists, Solo travelers
- Do you recommend this tour?
- Yes
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