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The Danube Cycle Path: An adventure on two wheels ☀️

The Danube Cycle Path is one of the most famous and popular cycle paths in Europe, which runs from the source of the Danube in Germany to its mouth in the Black Sea. On over 2.850 kilometers you will experience a varied journey by ten countries, past breathtaking landscapes, historical places and cultural sights. Whether you are planning a relaxed day trip or a cycling trip lasting several weeks: The Danube Cycle Path offers something for every cyclist – from River valleys and vineyards to metropolises and quiet nature reservesLet yourself be enchanted by the diversity and beauty of this unique cycle path and discover the Danube in a very special way. Find out more now and discover the Danube Cycle Path!

The most important information about the Danube Cycle Path at a glance

  • Length: 2.850 km
  • Number of stages: 12 stages in Germany
  • Difficulty: light to medium 
  • Quality: very well 
  • Signage: The Danube Cycle Path is signposted almost throughout. In Germany and Austria, the Danube Cycle Path is signposted with a green-yellow-blue sign. The Danube Cycle Path is also part of the European cycle route Eurovelo 6, which runs from the Atlantic to the Black Sea. The Eurovelo 6 logo can also often be found on the Danube Cycle Path signposts.
  • Topography: Mostly asphalted
  • Altitude: 5.120 meters uphill and 5.610 meters downhill
  • Where does the Danube Cycle Path begin and end? The Danube Cycle Route starts in Donaueschingen, Germany, where the Danube originates, and traditionally ends in Budapest, Hungary. However, there are also longer routes that lead to the Black Sea in Romania. The main route passes through several countries, including Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, and includes numerous picturesque towns and landscapes along the Danube.
  • Best travel time: The best time to travel the Danube Cycle Path is in the Months from May to SeptemberDuring this time, weather conditions are usually ideal for cycling, with summer temperatures and long days. Here are some specific considerations for each month:
  • Spring: This season offers mild to sunny temperatures and  fewer tourists. The landscape is in spring in in full bloom and the bike paths are often less crowded.
  • Summer: These are the warmest months with ideal temperatures for cycling, but it can also get hot – especially in the southern regionsIt is also the peak holiday season in Europe, so the Danube Cycle Route routes and accommodations can get busier.
  • Autumn: Autumn brings more pleasant temperatures and  fewer crowdsNature begins to change color, which provides a particularly beautiful backdrop for the tour.

Our most popular cycling tours

You would like to cycle the Danube Cycle Path with optimal comfort explore? Then we recommend one individual cycling trip familiar with the Mecklenburger Radtour: This doesn't just include overnight stays, but also the comfortable luggage transport carefully arranged for you.

Donauradweg Karte
Map of the complete Danube Cycle Route

Distance table and stages of the Danube Cycle Path

Distances along the Danube Cycle Path (bigger cities)
HomeObjectiveRemovalEstimated time
Donauschingenbeuron53,4 kmapprox. 04:00 hrs.
beuronRiedlingen50,0 kmapprox. 03:45 hours
RiedlingenUlm62,0 kmapprox. 04:30 hours
UlmGunzburg26,6 kmapprox. 02:00 hours
GunzburgDonauworth55,7 kmapprox. 04:00 hours
Donauworthneuburg37,4 kmapprox. 03:00 hours
neuburgIngolstadt22,7 kmapprox. 01:30 hours
IngolstadtBad Goegging33,2 kmapprox.02:30 hours
Bad GoeggingKehlheim17,5 kmapprox. 01:00 hours
KehlheimRegensburg27,3 kmapprox. 02:00 hours
RegensburgStraubing52,0 kmapprox. 03:30 hours
StraubingDeggendorf35,3 kmapprox. 02:30 hours
DeggendorfPassau55,7 kmapprox. 04:00 hours


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Your bike tour along the Danube Cycle Path: This is what the Danube has to offer!

A bike tour along the Danube Cycle Path is not only sporty and active, but also a unforgettable nature experience. The landscapes along the Danube are characterized by picturesque river valleys, rolling hills and majestic mountains. On your cycling tour you will cross historical cities and  Villages and experience the unique river landscape of the Danube floodplains and the Schlögener nooseThe following overview gives you an overview of the most beautiful cities from Regensburg in Germany until Budapest in Hungary.

Regensburg - a city with charm and history

Regensburg, one of the oldest cities in Germany, is located idyllic on the Danube and enchants with its well-preserved historic city centre. The history turned to stone is a real treat for all culture enthusiasts: The Dom St PeterOld City Hall and the Stone bridge are just some of the many impressive sights. Stroll through the picturesque streets, enjoy the carefree atmosphere in the cozy cafes and let yourself be enchanted by the charm of this beautiful city!

Regensburg with the Danube and the cathedral and its stone bridge in the Upper Palatinate in Bavaria

Passau: The magical city of three rivers

Passau, also known as “Three Rivers City“, is picturesquely situated at the confluence of DanubeInn and  ilzThe baroque old town, which was shaped by Italian architects, invites you to take relaxing walks and discovery tours Particularly worth seeing are the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral with the largest church organ in the world and the Upper House Fortress, from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the rivers and the city. Let yourself be enchanted by Passau's charm and the cheerful atmosphere in the rustic restaurants and cafés!

Passau Stadt Panorama mit der Donau im Vordergrund
The beautiful city panorama of Passau seen from the Danube.

Schlögen: Natural paradise on the Danube loop

Schlögen, a picturesque village on the banks of the Danube, impresses with its breathtaking natural landscape. Here, where the Danube forms an impressive loop around the Schlögener Berg pulls, is the Schlögener Danube Loop an absolute highlight for nature and hiking enthusiasts. Enjoy the impressive views from the viewing platforms or explore the surrounding area on a leisurely bike ride. Afterwards, relax in one of the inviting inns or cafés and let yourself be enchanted by the cheerful atmosphere and hospitality in Schlögen!

View of the Schlögener Donauschlinge

Linz: industrial city with cultural flair

Linz, the third largest city in Austria, is picturesquely situated on the Danube and surprises with industry, culture and nature. Visit the impressive Ars Electronica Center, which is considered the museum of the future for digital art and media technology. The charming old town invites you to stroll and explore – marvel at the Old City Hall, the baroque St. Mary's Cathedral and  Castle Museum. Let the pulsating atmosphere in the modern shopping centers and cozy cafes in Linz! For nature lovers, a trip to the nearby Poestlingberg, which offers a breathtaking view over the city.

View of the Holy Trinity Column on the main square in Linz

Vienna: Imperial splendor and modern liveliness

Vienna, the capital of Austria, enchants with its of imperial splendor and modern vitality. Stroll through the historic old town, which is surrounded by magnificent buildings such as the Hofburg, the  Stephansdom and the Vienna State Opera Immerse yourself in the world of the Habsburgs in the magnificent Schönbrunn Castle or enjoy coffee and cake in one of the famous Viennese coffee houses. Let yourself be enchanted by the lively atmosphere in the trendy districts and the charming green areas Vienna's enthusiasm!

Old Hofburg in Vienna the capital of Austria on the Danube

Krems: Wine, art and history on the Danube

Krems, a charming town in the heart of the Wachau, impresses with a picturesque old town, which is World Heritage Site Stroll through the winding streets and marvel at the well-preserved historic buildings. Discover the world of wine in the surrounding wineries and enjoy the excellent wines of the region. Those interested in culture should Karikaturmuseum and the famous Gottweig Monastery visit, which impresses with magnificent gardens and a unique baroque library. Let the relaxed atmosphere and hospitality at Krems enchant!

Durnstein in the Wachau in autumn, Austria

Bratislava: Historical charm and lively atmosphere

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, enchants with its History and modern vitality. Stroll through the picturesque old town, past colorful houses and magnificent churches. Visit the impressive Castle of Bratislava, which offers a breathtaking view of the city and the Danube. Discover the contemporary art in Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum or enjoy the culinary delights in the many cozy restaurants and cafes. Let yourself be inspired by Bratislava's charm and hospitality!

Historic old town with its castle above the Danube in Bratislava in Slovakia

Budapest: The shining pearl on the Danube

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, impresses with a unique mix of magnificent architecturepicturesque Danube landscape and  relaxing thermal baths. Marvel at the majestic Castle District of Buda, which towers high above the city and enjoy the breathtaking view. Stroll along the Danube and admire the imposing Parliament building and the famous chain bridge. Treat yourself to a break in one of the numerous Thermal bathsthat make Budapest a true oasis of relaxation. Let yourself be enchanted by the magic of this shining Pearl on the Danube enchant!

Parliament in Budapest on the Danube at sunset

Sights along the Danube Cycle Path

Donaueschingen Castle (Donaueschingen, Germany): A magnificent castle with a beautiful park, known as the source of the Danube.
Sigmaringen Castle (Sigmaringen, Germany): An impressive castle with an important weapons collection and magnificent rooms.
Beuron Monastery (Beuron, Germany): A Benedictine monastery in picturesque surroundings, known for its artistic frescoes.
Ulm Minster (Ulm, Germany): The church with the highest steeple in the world.

Blautopf near Blaubeuren (Blaubeuren, Germany): A karst spring with deep blue water and a legendary history.
Upper Danube Nature Park (Baden-Württemberg, Germany): A nature park with impressive limestone cliffs and deep valleys.
Walhalla Donaustauf (Donaustauf, Germany): A neoclassical marble temple honoring important personalities.
Kelheim Liberation Hall (Kelheim, Germany): A monument commemorating the Wars of Liberation.
Weltenburg Monastery (Kelheim, Germany): A baroque monastery in a scenic bend of the Danube.
Neuburg Castle (Neuburg an der Donau, Germany): A Renaissance castle with ornate facades and magnificent interiors.
Danube seepage (Baden-Württemberg, Germany): A geological phenomenon in which the Danube temporarily disappears underground.
Melk Abbey (Melk, Austria): A magnificent baroque Benedictine monastery, perched high above the Danube.
Upper House Fortress (Passau, Germany): An impressive castle complex with a museum and a wonderful view of the Danube.
Schlögener noose (Schlögen, Austria): A striking river loop of the Danube in Upper Austria.
Schönbrunn Castle (Vienna, Austria): A former imperial summer residence with extensive gardens and magnificent interiors.
Wiener Prater (Vienna, Austria): A large public park with the famous Ferris wheel.
Poestlingberg (Linz, Austria): A pilgrimage site with panoramic views over the city and the Danube.
LENTOS Art Museum (Linz, Austria): A modern art museum with an impressive collection of contemporary art.
The Parliament in Budapest (Budapest, Hungary): A magnificent neo-Gothic building right on the Danube.
Bratislava Castle (Bratislava, Slovakia): A historic castle overlooking the Danube and the Old Town.

Various festivals along the Danube Cycle Path

There are numerous festivals along the Danube Cycle Path that celebrate the cultural diversity and traditions of the region. A particularly well-known festival is the Oktoberfest in Munich, the world's largest folk festival, which attracts millions of visitors with its marquees, rides and Bavarian specialties. Another highlight is the Gäuboden folk festival in Straubing, which is known as one of the oldest folk festivals in Bavaria and delights with a varied program of folk music, traditional costume parades and a large amusement park. In Austria, the Danube Island Festival in Vienna Hundreds of thousands of people come every year to enjoy the free open-air music festival on the Danube Island. Linz Pavement Spectacle in Linz transforms the city centre into a stage for street artists from all over the world and offers a colourful programme of music, theatre and acrobatics. In Hungary, the Sziget Festival in Budapest on the Danube island of Óbuda for a week with international music acts, art installations and cultural events and attracts visitors from all over the world.

How to reach us

By train:
Most of the major cities along the Danube Cycle Path are easily accessible by trainIn Germany, Austria and Hungary there is a good railway infrastructure that also allows bicycles to be taken on board.
Germany: Deutsche Bahn offers special bicycle compartments on many trains. For example, you can easily travel from Munich to Donaueschingen.
Austria: The ÖBB (Austrian Federal Railways) have bicycle parking spaces on many of their trains. A frequently used starting point is Passau, which is easily accessible from Vienna and Munich.
Hungary: MÁV-START, the Hungarian railway, also offers bicycle transport. Budapest is a central hub.

By Car:
Traveling by car is also possible and convenient. Many cyclists decide to park their car in a city and take public transport to the starting point. There are parking facilities in the larger cities along the route.

By plane:
For international travelers, there are airports near the main departure points:
Germany: Stuttgart Airport (for Donaueschingen)
Austria: Linz or Vienna Airport
Hungary: Budapest Airport

The Danube Cycle Path between Passau and ViennaThis route is known for its beautiful landscapes, historical places and the many sights along the route. Especially the Wachau, a wine region in Lower Austria, is a special highlight.

How long it takes to cycle the Danube Cycle Path depends largely on the route chosen and your individual pace. For the popular route from Passau to Vienna (about 300 kilometers) most cyclists plan 6 to 8 days The entire route of the Danube Cycle Path from Donaueschingen to the Black Sea is approximately 2.850 kilometres long and can be several weeks or months be managed.

The Danube Cycle Path is mostly flat and therefore suitable for cyclists of all fitness levels. There are only few gradients, which makes him particularly for families and less experienced cyclists attractive. The section between Passau and Vienna is very well developed and offers numerous places to stop for a break.

The Danube Cycle Path leads on both sides along the Danube. There are often Bridges or ferrieswhich allow you to change sides. Which side you choose depends on the sights, the route and your personal preferences.

The route from Passau to Vienna is about 300 km long.

The distance from Passau to Budapest is about 600 km. Depending on the route chosen, the exact length may vary slightly.

Our cycling tours

You want to cycle along the Danube Cycle Path in a relaxed manner, without having to carry your luggage and book each hotel individually? Then book a Cycling tour along the Danube with us and enjoy your dream bike tour!

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