Germany & Austria: The Danube River

Depart home for Germany. The particulars of your arrival overseas are detailed with your flight itinerary.

Upon arrival at Munich Airport, make your own way to your centrally located hotel in the city of Passau. For suggestions, please refer to your VBT Vacation Preparation Handbook.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore Passau at your leisure, using the VBT city information as your guide.

After breakfast, enjoy a morning of independent exploration in Passau. You might stroll the cobbled lanes of the Old Town, visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral to see its magnificent pipe organ, or walk along the riverfront promenade where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers meet. Please have lunch before meeting the group.

At 1:00 p.m., meet your VBT Local Host and any other VBT guests arriving today in the hotel lobby. Your host will be holding a VBT sign and/or wearing VBT apparel. Please be dressed and ready for cycling.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up Ride Along the Inn River — 8.7 km (5.5 miles)

What to Expect:

Designed to help you get comfortable with your bike and stretch your legs after your flight, this easy loop ride begins at your hotel and follows a bike path south along the Inn River through the town of Passau.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, set out on one of the most scenic and beloved sections of the EuroVelo 6 bike trail—a flat, well-maintained path that traces the Danube River. Shortly after crossing into Austria, you’ll follow the right bank toward the charming riverside town of Engelhartszell. Along the way, enjoy peaceful river views and lush countryside. In Engelhartszell, we recommend a visit to Engelszell Abbey—home to Austria’s only Trappist monastery. Here you can admire the mid-18th-century Baroque church and sample locally brewed Trappist beer and liqueurs—along with the abbey’s latest and highly acclaimed creation: Engelszell Trappist cheese.

This afternoon, continue cycling along the Danube to the dramatic Schlögener Schlinge, where the river makes a sweeping curve between forested hills. Your hotel for the night offers beautiful views of this natural wonder. You may wish to unwind in the wellness center, or even treat yourself to a massage—reservations are recommended upon arrival.

Today's Ride Choices

Passau to Schlögener Schlinge — 40.9 km (25.4 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s route begins directly from your hotel in Passau’s city center and follows the Danube River. You’ll spend the day cycling along a dedicated bike path with minimal elevation changes. Your destination is a hotel perched in the heart of Austria’s famous river bend, the Schlögener Schlinge—a striking natural wonder.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Before setting off on your bike, we recommend a short walk up to the nearby viewpoint offering a breathtaking vista of the dramatic 180-degree river bend that defines the Schlögener Schlinge. Afterward, begin your ride through a peaceful forest toward the charming riverside town of Aschach. Here, you might pause for a coffee and cake at a local café or explore the fascinating museum dedicated to shipbuilding, navigation, and fishing traditions along the Danube.

Continue your ride to the town of Ottensheim, known for its picturesque hilltop castle. Enjoy a leisurely late lunch while you wait for your scheduled 3:00 p.m. transport to your next hotel, the ideally situated Donau Lodge in Ybbs an der Donau. Nestled along the Danube and adjacent to the bike path, this modern riverside retreat offers easy access to the historic town center and scenic cycling routes. The adjacent Babenbergerhof restaurant serves traditional Austrian cuisine, and nearby attractions include the town’s charming Old Town, a bicycle museum, and the Danube’s first hydroelectric power station.

Today's Ride Choices

Schlögener Schlinge to Ottensheim — 46.2 km (28.6 miles)

What to Expect:

The route departs from the hotel and follows a well-paved bike path along the right bank of the Danube. With only slight elevation changes, it winds through scenic forests hugging the river. After Aschach, the path becomes completely flat.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Travel by shuttle to the shores of Lunzer See, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Eastern Alps, where you’ll begin today’s scenic downhill ride. With the Ybbs River as your constant companion, you’ll follow the path of a former railway once affectionately known as the “Sheep’s Cheese Express.” Enjoy sweeping views of graceful arch bridges, crystal-clear waters, and a picturesque gorge. Pause to snap photos—or even take a refreshing dip in the lake. A shuttle will be available about halfway through the ride at Waidhofen an der Ybbs, or you can choose to complete the full distance and earn bragging rights as a member of the 100+ Kilometer Club.

Today's Ride Choices

Lunz am See to Waidhofen an der Ybbs — 55.0 km (34.1 miles) | Waidhofen an der Ybbs to Ybbs an der Donau — 48.9 km (30.3 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s route descends gradually from the top of the mountain to the river valley. Most of the ride follows a dedicated bike path—partially separated from the road and largely removed from motorized traffic. You may choose to ride the entire route or take a shuttle back to your hotel from approximately the halfway point in Waidhofen an der Ybbs.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today’s route follows the Danube into the heart of the Wachau Valley. Consider stopping in Melk to visit its world-famous Benedictine Abbey, founded in 1089, and enjoy lunch at one of the traditional restaurants in the charming Old Town. Afterward, cross the river and continue your ride through scenic landscapes of vineyards and fertile farmland. Pass through the town of Aggsbach, near the site where the small but iconic Venus of Willendorf statue was discovered. Your day ends in the riverside village of Weissenkirchen, where you’ll spend the next two nights at Hotel Kirchenwirt.

Today's Ride Choices

Ybbs an der Donau to Weissenkirchen — 52.2 km (32.4 miles)

What to Expect:

Continue along EuroVelo 6, a long-distance bicycle route, on the right bank of the Danube River to the town of Melk. After an optional stop, cross the bridge and continue cycling on the left bank through Aggsbach and Willendorf, ending in Weissenkirchen.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today offers a rewarding ride as you explore both sides of the Danube River. Begin by pedaling upstream from Weissenkirchen, then cross to the right bank by ferry (€4.50 per person with bike; operates daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.). As you follow the path downstream, enjoy breathtaking views of Dürnstein’s iconic hilltop setting from across the river.

Upon arriving in Mautern, you’ll have two options. For a shorter and more relaxed day, cross the bridge directly into Dürnstein, allowing extra time to explore the village at your leisure. Alternatively, opt for the longer route by continuing downstream to the historic Old Town of Krems. Here, you might pause for lunch and a stroll before crossing the bridge and cycling toward Dürnstein.

Once in Dürnstein, take time to wander its cobbled streets, visit the ruins of the 12th-century castle overlooking the town, or sample the region’s renowned Grüner Veltliner in one of the welcoming local wine shops. From here, it’s just a few more scenic miles back to Weissenkirchen, where you’ll complete your loop and conclude your cycling adventure along the Danube through Germany and Austria.

End your day with a cozy dinner in one of Weissenkirchen’s inviting restaurants, reflecting on your journey through this picturesque stretch of the Wachau Valley.

Today's Ride Choices

Wachau Loop Short Option — 33.0 km (20.5 miles) OR Wachau Loop Long Option — 43.0 km (26.7 miles)

What to Expect:

Start your day by pedaling upstream, then cross the Danube by ferry to the right bank. As you ride downstream, take in a breathtaking view of Dürnstein from across the river. Continue to the historic Old Town of Krems, where you may wish to pause for lunch and a stroll before cycling toward the charming village of Dürnstein. There, you can explore cobbled lanes, visit the ruins of the 12th-century castle, or sample the region’s famous white wine, Grüner Veltliner, in one of the local wine shops. If you prefer to spend more time in Dürnstein, you may shorten your loop by crossing the bridge at Mautern, which bypasses Krems entirely.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After breakfast, transportation will be provided at 9:00 a.m. to your hotel in Vienna—approximately an hour away—along with any other VBT Self-Guided guests. Upon arrival, you’ll have the rest of the day to explore the cultural and historic treasures of Austria’s capital at your own pace. For suggestions, refer to your VBT city information.

You’ll be staying at Hotel Stefanie, Vienna’s oldest hotel, which blends traditional elegance with modern comfort. Ideally situated in the centrally located Leopoldstadt district, just a short walk across the Danube Canal from the Innere Stadt (Old Town), it provides convenient access to key landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and Vienna’s vibrant cafés and shops. The hotel’s historic charm and close proximity to public transportation make it the perfect base for discovering the city on your own.

Included Meals: Breakfast

After an included breakfast this morning, allow a minimum of three hours before your flight departure to reach Vienna International Airport. This timeframe includes up to one hour of travel and the recommended two hours for pre-flight check-in. For transportation suggestions, please refer to your VBT Vacation Preparation Handbook.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Make your own independent travel arrangements to your first hotel, Altstadt Hotel in Passau, a centrally located property ideal for exploring the city. For travel suggestions, please refer to your VBT Vacation Preparation Handbook. We recommend arriving in Germany at least one day prior to the tour start date, as your tour officially begins at 1:00 p.m.

At 1:00 p.m., meet your VBT Local Host and any other VBT guests arriving today in the hotel lobby. Your host will be holding a VBT sign and/or wearing VBT apparel. Please be dressed and ready for cycling.

Today's Ride Choices

Afternoon: Warm-Up Ride Along the Inn River — 8.7 km (5.5 miles)

What to Expect:

Designed to help you get comfortable with your bike and stretch your legs after your flight, this easy loop ride begins at your hotel and follows a bike path south along the Inn River through the town of Passau.

After breakfast, set out on one of the most scenic and beloved sections of the EuroVelo 6 bike trail—a flat, well-maintained path that traces the Danube River. Shortly after crossing into Austria, you’ll follow the right bank toward the charming riverside town of Engelhartszell. Along the way, enjoy peaceful river views and lush countryside. In Engelhartszell, we recommend a visit to Engelszell Abbey—home to Austria’s only Trappist monastery. Here you can admire the mid-18th-century Baroque church and sample locally brewed Trappist beer and liqueurs—along with the abbey’s latest and highly acclaimed creation: Engelszell Trappist cheese.

This afternoon, continue cycling along the Danube to the dramatic Schlögener Schlinge, where the river makes a sweeping curve between forested hills. Your hotel for the night offers beautiful views of this natural wonder. You may wish to unwind in the wellness center, or even treat yourself to a massage—reservations are recommended upon arrival.

Today's Ride Choices

Passau to Schlögener Schlinge — 40.9 km (25.4 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s route begins directly from your hotel in Passau’s city center and follows the Danube River. You’ll spend the day cycling along a dedicated bike path with minimal elevation changes. Your destination is a hotel perched in the heart of Austria’s famous river bend, the Schlögener Schlinge—a striking natural wonder.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Before setting off on your bike, we recommend a short walk up to the nearby viewpoint offering a breathtaking vista of the dramatic 180-degree river bend that defines the Schlögener Schlinge. Afterward, begin your ride through a peaceful forest toward the charming riverside town of Aschach. Here, you might pause for a coffee and cake at a local café or explore the fascinating museum dedicated to shipbuilding, navigation, and fishing traditions along the Danube.

Continue your ride to the town of Ottensheim, known for its picturesque hilltop castle. Enjoy a leisurely late lunch while you wait for your scheduled 3:00 p.m. transport to your next hotel, the ideally situated Donau Lodge in Ybbs an der Donau. Nestled along the Danube and adjacent to the bike path, this modern riverside retreat offers easy access to the historic town center and scenic cycling routes. The adjacent Babenbergerhof restaurant serves traditional Austrian cuisine, and nearby attractions include the town’s charming Old Town, a bicycle museum, and the Danube’s first hydroelectric power station.

Today's Ride Choices

Schlögener Schlinge to Ottensheim — 46.2 km (28.6 miles)

What to Expect:

The route departs from the hotel and follows a well-paved bike path along the right bank of the Danube. With only slight elevation changes, it winds through scenic forests hugging the river. After Aschach, the path becomes completely flat.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Travel by shuttle to the shores of Lunzer See, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Eastern Alps, where you’ll begin today’s scenic downhill ride. With the Ybbs River as your constant companion, you’ll follow the path of a former railway once affectionately known as the “Sheep’s Cheese Express.” Enjoy sweeping views of graceful arch bridges, crystal-clear waters, and a picturesque gorge. Pause to snap photos—or even take a refreshing dip in the lake. A shuttle will be available about halfway through the ride at Waidhofen an der Ybbs, or you can choose to complete the full distance and earn bragging rights as a member of the 100+ Kilometer Club.

Today's Ride Choices

Lunz am See to Waidhofen an der Ybbs — 55.0 km (34.1 miles) | Waidhofen an der Ybbs to Ybbs an der Donau — 48.9 km (30.3 miles)

What to Expect:

Today’s route descends gradually from the top of the mountain to the river valley. Most of the ride follows a dedicated bike path—partially separated from the road and largely removed from motorized traffic. You may choose to ride the entire route or take a shuttle back to your hotel from approximately the halfway point in Waidhofen an der Ybbs.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today’s route follows the Danube into the heart of the Wachau Valley. Consider stopping in Melk to visit its world-famous Benedictine Abbey, founded in 1089, and enjoy lunch at one of the traditional restaurants in the charming Old Town. Afterward, cross the river and continue your ride through scenic landscapes of vineyards and fertile farmland. Pass through the town of Aggsbach, near the site where the small but iconic Venus of Willendorf statue was discovered. Your day ends in the riverside village of Weissenkirchen, where you’ll spend the next two nights at Hotel Kirchenwirt.

Today's Ride Choices

Ybbs an der Donau to Weissenkirchen — 52.2 km (32.4 miles)

What to Expect:

Continue along EuroVelo 6, a long-distance bicycle route, on the right bank of the Danube River to the town of Melk. After an optional stop, cross the bridge and continue cycling on the left bank through Aggsbach and Willendorf, ending in Weissenkirchen.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Today offers a rewarding ride as you explore both sides of the Danube River. Begin by pedaling upstream from Weissenkirchen, then cross to the right bank by ferry (€4.50 per person with bike; operates daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.). As you follow the path downstream, enjoy breathtaking views of Dürnstein’s iconic hilltop setting from across the river.

Upon arriving in Mautern, you’ll have two options. For a shorter and more relaxed day, cross the bridge directly into Dürnstein, allowing extra time to explore the village at your leisure. Alternatively, opt for the longer route by continuing downstream to the historic Old Town of Krems. Here, you might pause for lunch and a stroll before crossing the bridge and cycling toward Dürnstein.

Once in Dürnstein, take time to wander its cobbled streets, visit the ruins of the 12th-century castle overlooking the town, or sample the region’s renowned Grüner Veltliner in one of the welcoming local wine shops. From here, it’s just a few more scenic miles back to Weissenkirchen, where you’ll complete your loop and conclude your cycling adventure along the Danube through Germany and Austria.

End your day with a cozy dinner in one of Weissenkirchen’s inviting restaurants, reflecting on your journey through this picturesque stretch of the Wachau Valley.

Today's Ride Choices

Wachau Loop Short Option — 33.0 km (20.5 miles) OR Wachau Loop Long Option — 43.0 km (26.7 miles)

What to Expect:

Start your day by pedaling upstream, then cross the Danube by ferry to the right bank. As you ride downstream, take in a breathtaking view of Dürnstein from across the river. Continue to the historic Old Town of Krems, where you may wish to pause for lunch and a stroll before cycling toward the charming village of Dürnstein. There, you can explore cobbled lanes, visit the ruins of the 12th-century castle, or sample the region’s famous white wine, Grüner Veltliner, in one of the local wine shops. If you prefer to spend more time in Dürnstein, you may shorten your loop by crossing the bridge at Mautern, which bypasses Krems entirely.

Included Meals: Breakfast

The tour ends after breakfast at your hotel in Weissenkirchen. From here, you may continue your independent travels. For details, refer to your VBT Vacation Preparation Handbook. Please note that, depending on your destination, it may not be possible to return to the U.S. on the final day of the tour. Check airline schedules carefully. If you plan to schedule a return flight immediately after the tour concludes, we recommend contacting your airline directly for check-in and connection requirements.

Included Meals: Breakfast