Explore the picturesque paths along the winding Danube River, like the Romans, the legendary Nibelungs, and even Europe's powerful kings and emperors. You'll get to know the beauty and historical significance of this ancient military and trading route, whilst never being far away from the cool, clear waters of the river on one of Europe's most popular and beautiful cycling routes. Pedaling off from the baroque town of Passau - the 'City of Three Rivers' - you'll cycle through the various breathtaking districts of Upper and Lower Austria, finally arriving in the Danube metropolis of iconic Vienna. You'll fall in love with the natural beauty of the verdant Danube Valley, the stunning Schlögen Bend, and the wonderful landscapes of Wachau. The second half of the tour will see you discovering lowland forests, original villages, and magical cities. Ride to the Roman castle at Kelemantia, as well as Carnuntum, to discover relics of the past, winding your way through woodland replete with European flora and fauna. Pass through the Rye Island - a real natural paradise - and through small villages which, despite the ceaseless progression of the years, still keep their original charm. For an inspiring bike tour from Passau to Budapest, look no further! This section of the Danube, the Strudengau, was once feared by sailors for its strong currents, but now provides a tranquil setting for your cycle ride. In Maria Taferl, high above the Danube, you will find the magnificent pilgrimage church, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every year. In Melk, make sure to look up or you'll miss the beautiful monastery that overlooks the Danube. Your accommodation is located in the heart of the Wachau valley. Today your bike tour involves a leisurely trip to the Danube metropolis of Vienna, the 'City of Dreams'. Sip on a sublime cup of coffee and enjoy a slice of traditional 'Sachertorte' in one of the numerous coffee houses, or take a ride in a traditional horse-drawn carriage ('Fiaker'). Stroll along Vienna's famous shopping street (Mariahilfer Straße), visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, and consider a cycling day tour of the city. Your bike trip guides you through the National Park at Donau-Auen. Here, you'll get the chance to discover the diversity of the flora and fauna populating the manifold types of landscape within this area. Pedal onwards past the Orth Castle, through the village of Eckertsau, and finally reach Bad Deutsch Altenburg. From Bad Deutsch Altenburg/Hainburg you can ride along the Römerweg (Roman bike trail) on an excursion to Carnuntum. This archeological site is regarded as one of the most significant in Austria! Afterwards, cycle to the border with Slovakia to discover the brilliant beauty of its capital, Bratislava. Today's shorter distance allows for plenty of time to visit the Old Town and soak up its grand architectural splendor. Today you'll cycle a short distance in Slovak territory before passing over the Hungarian border into Rajká. Within the first few kilometers, you'll be greeted by the charm of traditional Hungarian villages and agricultural landscapes. Your route will guide you through the so-called 'Szigetköz', a small Rye island, created by 'side arms' of the Danube. Moving onwards into Mosonmagyaróvár, make the most of the 'Town of 17 Bridges' with a walking tour through its charming streets before boarding the train to Györ, home to a breathtaking historic center. Bike towards Bábolna, a well-cultivated town with a beautiful inner center and the local 'National Stud', known well beyond the borders - racehorses are bred within this splendid inner courtyard. The final part of today's route leads you back to the Danube, where you'll reach the divided town of Komárom/Komárno. Tonight, enjoying a rejuvenating session in the spa. Today's route runs near the riverbanks in the flat Danube valley. During the course of the ride, you'll pedal past charming villages set against a verdant backdrop of beautiful vineyards. Sporty bikers can choose the route over Tata, which features inclines that require a basic level of fitness. Those interested in history should plan to take in the Roman castle at Kelemantia. However, the absolute highlight of the day is your overnight location: Esztergom, also known as 'Hungarian Rome'. Esztergom's basilica is the largest church in the country! Take time out for a comprehensive visit before boarding the riverboat that takes you to Visegrád. Along the way, amazing views will win you over as the beautiful landscape of the so-called 'Donauknie' pass by. Behold breathtaking Budapest, city of riverside resplendence, where you can feast your eyes on the phenomenal Royal Palace. On the way, peer up at the commanding visage of Visegrád Castle and take a look at the Open Air Museum. Bike into the baroque Old Town of Szentendre from the 'Donauknie', arguably the most attractive section of the Danube bike trail. Upon arriving in breathtaking Budapest, make the most of this unmissable destination on a walk or cycling day tour through the city. The first part of this tour follows flat or slightly downhill paths along the Danube. These paths are built well and nearly 100% free from motor vehicles. Minor roads make up only very short sections of the route. The second part of the tour sees you cycling on bike trails alongside a dam, with short distances on relatively quiet side roads. Rides along busy roads last only a short while. Except for 3 short stretches of unpaved path, you will find the route takes place on asphalted roads. On the whole, the route is designed very well with a few stretches of less pristine path in Slovakia. Altogether, the tour is relatively easy with only slight hills in a few sections.
Hotel
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