Bamberg to Passau: Discover the Danube, Main & Altmühl

Day 1: Arrival in Bamberg

Arrive in the afternoon and settle into life aboard the Merlijn. As the ship sets sail, enjoy a welcome drink while meeting the crew, receiving an introduction to the tour and listening to a safety briefing. With Bamberg fading into the distance, your cycling and cruising adventure truly begins. Unwind in the lounge or out on the terrace with a drink in hand, watching the scenery unfold along the Main-Danube Canal. As the evening progresses, savor a delightful dinner while the ship continues its journey late into the night.

Day 2: Nuremberg – Roth
19 – 22 mi. / 30 – 35 km

After a hearty breakfast, set off into the idyllic Regnitz Valley. Today’s gentle ride takes you through Stadeln and Fürth before reaching Nuremberg, a city where medieval history and a vibrant university atmosphere intertwine. Spend time exploring its historic center before returning to the Merlijn for an afternoon cruise to Roth. As the ship passes one of the tallest locks along the Main-Danube Canal, take in the engineering marvels of this waterway. After dinner, stretch your legs with an evening stroll before retiring for the night.

Day 3: Roth – Riedenburg
31 – 37 mi. / 50 – 60 km

Today’s route follows tranquil gravel paths alongside the canal, offering a peaceful ride. Begin your morning with a stop at a traditional German bakery, then continue toward the town of Berching. A portion of your journey traces the path of the historic Ludwig-Danube-Main Canal, an ambitious waterway built between 1836 and 1846 under the vision of King Ludwig. Passing through Plankstetten, catch sight of its striking Benedictine monastery, founded in 1129, nestled at the edge of the forest. Your ride continues to Beilngries, a charming town in the heart of the Altmühl Valley, where a short break allows you to soak in the scenery. The final stretch leads you to the medieval town of Riedenburg, where history whispers from its ancient churches, including St. John Baptist and the Church of Our Lady, whose Baroque façade hides its 12th-century origins.

Day 4: Riedenburg – Kelheim – Regensburg
25 – 28 mi. / 40 – 45 km

Enjoy breakfast as the Merlijn continues its cruise. As you approach Essing, the striking wooden bridge—the longest of its kind in Europe—signals the start of today’s cycling adventure. Pedal along the canal towpath until the waters widen before the Kelheim lock, creating a serene, lake-like expanse. After crossing the lock via a bridge, explore the historic town of Kelheim before following the Altmühl cycle route as it merges with the Danube path. Along the way, pass through the lush vineyards of Winzer and stop in Bad Abbach, renowned for its sulphur and mud baths. In the afternoon, rejoin the ship in Regensburg, where a well-earned dinner awaits.

Day 5: Regensburg
12 – 16 mi. / 20 – 25 km

The Merlijn remains moored in Regensburg today, allowing you ample time to explore this remarkably preserved medieval city. Highlights include its 8th-century cathedral, the historic stone imperial bridge, and a collegiate church steeped in history. Whether you choose to cycle, immerse yourself in local culture, or simply relax, the day is yours to enjoy. A guided ride will take you to the impressive Walhalla memorial near Donaustauf, an architectural tribute commissioned by King Ludwig I to honor Germany’s most influential figures.

Day 6: Regensburg – Straubing
19 – 22 mi. / 30 – 35 km or extend to 34 – 37 mi. / 55 – 60 km

As dawn breaks, the Merlijn gently leaves Regensburg behind. Once docked, set out along the famed Donau Radweg, one of Europe’s most scenic cycling routes. After a leisurely morning ride, arrive in Straubing, where you can explore its rich heritage or opt to extend your ride. This former ducal city, with its deep Celtic and Roman roots, is distinguished by its striking green-spired tower, a vibrant town square, and elegant Baroque facades. A visit to the Graubünden Museum offers further insight into the area’s storied past.

Day 7: Straubing – Passau
25 – 28 mi. / 40 – 45 km or extend to 34 – 37 mi. / 55 – 60 km

Begin the day with a breathtaking cruise along the most picturesque stretch of the Danube, soaking in the views from the ship’s terrace. Passing Bogen, nestled at the foot of a dramatic hill, and the small village of Pfelling—home to historic water level markers—the journey unfolds like a storybook. As today’s cycling leg begins, make your way to Deggendorf, known as the gateway to the Bavarian Forest, where the town’s Gothic and Baroque influences create a captivating atmosphere.

The final stretch follows the Danube cycle path through Niederalteich, home to one of Bavaria’s oldest Benedictine monasteries. From here, you have two choices: rejoin the Merlijn for a peaceful afternoon cruise or extend your cycling toward Passau. Whichever path you take, the last moments of your bike and boat adventure are best savored with a drink on the terrace. As the Merlijn navigates its final lock, it glides into Passau—the stunning three-river city where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz converge. A special captain’s dinner brings this unforgettable journey to a celebratory close.

Day 8: Departure from Passau

As morning unfolds, it’s time to bid farewell to the Merlijn. Whether continuing your travels through Europe or making your way home, the memories of your Bavarian adventure will linger long after you disembark.