Bike cruise between Passau and the Iron Gates on the Danube
The Danube is an exceptional cycling route recognized throughout Europe for its beauty and its beautiful, perfectly marked cycle paths. Embark on an exceptional bike cruise aboard the Swiss Crown between Passau and the Iron Gates on Eurovelo 6. Discover 4 countries through breathtaking landscapes between Vienna, Bratislava and Belgrade by bike and by boat.
Highlights of the stay :
- Castles and landscapes
- Budapest, the Hungarian pearl of the Danube
- Bratislava, Belgrade and Vienna
- Iron gates
Day 1: arrival in Passau
Boarding from 4 p.m. and departure at 5 p.m. Enjoy the view of Passau as you glide down the Danube at sunset. You pass thick forests before entering the lock at the Jochenstein power station on the border between Germany and Austria.
Day 2: Great Loop from Engelhartszell to Aschach, 42 km
The first cycling stage begins on one of the most beautiful portions of the Danube: the "Donauschlinge" or Danube loop in French. This is a part where the river bends almost 180°. On the route, you pass through authentic villages with their welcoming cider taverns and you arrive in Austria. At the magnificent Trappist Monastery (the only one in the country) of Engelhartszell, you can, in addition to visiting it, taste their artisanal liqueurs and cheeses.
The famous “Schlogener view” offers a wonderful panorama of the surrounding area. A little further, the boat awaits you in the charming village of Aschach.
Day 3: Devín - Bratislava, 15 - 43 km
A narrow cycle path runs along the ancient Iron Curtain from the ruins of Devin Castle to the splendid Schloss Hof, home to one of the most beautiful Baroque gardens in Europe. After taking in the countryside air, you arrive in the bustling city of Bratislava. A visit by small train is possible (to be booked on board) to discover the Slovak capital in which the Hungarian kings have long been crowned. This tour starts from the fortress perched on a hill overlooking the city and ends with a walk through the beautifully restored city center.
Day 4: Budapest | excursion to Szentendre, 27 - 54 km (or day of rest)
Enjoy entering Budapest with the breathtaking view of the city’s most beautiful buildings. Discover the city split in two by the Danube on a guided tour (to be booked on board) or take a trip to the charming town of Szentendre renowned for its artists and galleries. In the evening, you can explore the Hungarian metropolis at your leisure or enjoy the view of the illuminated Parliament from the terrace.
Day 5: Baja - Mohacs, 37 km
From the peaceful Baroque town of Baja, famous for its fish soup, stroll along the flood protection dikes of the Gemenc floodplain, through sleepy river landscapes and amid fields of sunflowers. At the end of the day's stage you take the ferry to the small town of Mohacs, Hungary's southernmost town on the Danube, famous for being the site of two epic battles against the Turks.
Day 6: Belgrade (rest day)
Explore the Serbian capital by bike or bus and take a trip back in time and learn about the rise and fall of Yugoslavia (bookable on board). When night falls, Belgrade is sure to light up. Discover Zemun, the city's oldest district, or stroll through the famous artistic quarter of Skadarlija, where taverns offer traditional specialities to the lively sound of folk music.
Day 7: Cataract Canyons / Iron Gates National Park (free day)
Discover the beautiful fjord-like landscape near the ship's deck. The river crosses the Romanian Carpathians and the mighty foothills of the Balkan range. A spectacular landscape with steep gorges, dark forests, historical monuments and impregnable fortresses on the banks which are reflected in the blue waters of the river: this miracle of nature will take your breath away!
Day 8: Novi Sad - Ilok, 48 km
The imposing Petrovaradin Fortress is perched above the provincial capital of Vojvodina. After taking a cycle path upstream, take a ferry to reach the gentle hills of Fruska Gora, with its orchards, vineyards and idyllic farming villages. In the medieval town of Ilok, everything is about wine. In the evening, you can taste famous Croatian wines at a local wine cellar (to be booked on board).
Day 9: Batina - Mohacs, 42 km
Today idyllic little villages and endless canola fields accompany you from Croatia to Serbia and Hungary. You experience unspoiled nature in Nemzeti National Park and after the ferry ride to Mohacs, you will pass the Mohacs Battle Memorial.
Day 10: Kalocsa - Solt, 50 km
Kalocsa is the “paprika capital” of Hungary. The character of the city is strongly influenced by the colorful houses with brilliant floral designs, hand painted, and by the cathedral and its towers visible from afar. While visiting the Paprika Museum, you will learn a lot about Hungary's favorite spice. Continue on the cycle path along the flood protection dike through the vast expanse of Puszta. You cross fields and orchards as far as the eye can see to Solt, birthplace of the famous conductor Sir George Solti. A visit to a horse farm, with a riding demonstration by the famous Csikos shepherds, as well as a visit to a museum dedicated to the farm and traditional crafts, make for an eventful day (to book on board).
Day 11: Bend of the Danube - Esztergom, 50 km
The Danube is surrounded by rugged wooded hills that cut through the picturesque, hilly landscape of the “Hungarian Wachau”. Located in the middle of the Danube, the charming island of Szentendre exudes true Puszta romance. As you continue your way on pretty cycle paths through picturesque villages, you can experience the Hungarian joie de vivre. The dome of the imposing Esztergom Basilica can be seen from afar. The largest church in Hungary, with its Tuscan-style high altar and side chapel with red marble walls, is worth a visit. A visit to a horse farm with a riding demonstration of the famous Csikos shepherds, a farm museum and traditional handicrafts is the crowning conclusion of an eventful day (optional).
Day 12: Vienna (bike excursion to Klosterneuburg / Danube Island)
After those days of cycling, you deserve a little relaxation. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the idyllic floodplain forest of Donauauen National Park and the awe-inspiring skyline as you cruise towards Vienna. Cycle along Danube Island, Vienna's favorite recreation area, to Klosterneuburg Abbey or stroll through the charming Kahlenberg vineyards (with stunning views of the city and the Danube). The day traditionally ends with a concert of classical waltzes and operetta in a famous Viennese palace (bookable on board).
Day 13: Vienna (free day)
Discover Vienna on a guided bike tour or on your own with the HOP ON HOP OFF bus (to b e booked on board). Cycle through the historic city center at a leisurely pace and admire the scenery. The beautiful Ringstraße boulevard will remind you of times gone by and the cafes will tempt you with delicious Viennese cakes and pastries. You will have time to stroll through the picturesque alleys or visit the Naschmarkt. End your day in Vienna in a rustic wine tavern.
Day 14: Wachau | Krems - Melk, 37 km
This last step of your bike ride is magical! The gentle rolling countryside of the Wachau Valley, with its picturesque villages, castles and historic palaces surrounded by apricot trees and terraced vineyards, is one of the most beautiful stretches. In Spitz the cycle path is lined with cozy winegrowers' taverns and you really should have a break in this area (wine tasting optional)!
Day 15: Passau
Enjoy the first rays of the sun and the morning tranquillity of the Danube Valley one last time. Disembarkation around 11:00 am. If you need to arrange trains for your return, we recommend that you book them from 12.30 noon at the earliest.
