The Danube capitals by bike and boat: Austria, Slovakia, Hungary and Serbia
On the itinerary of this Danube cycling cruise, no less than four countries and their capitals! Starting in Vienna, Austria, you will ride along the most beautiful sections of the Danube to reach Belgrade, Serbia. Along the way, you’ll also have the chance to explore Bratislava, the remarkable capital of Slovakia, and Budapest, in Hungary.
Between these cities, the Danube cycle route offers plenty of delightful surprises: authentic villages, medieval towns, a stunning nature reserve, and much more.
Highlights of the trip:
- Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, and Belgrade
- The Danube cycling route and its bike paths
- The medieval town of Baja
- The artists' village of Szentendre
- The picturesque towns of Komárno, Esztergom, and Kalocsa
Day 1: From Vienna to Bratislava (cruise or 67 km by bike)
On this first day, you have two options:
- Option 1 : Drop off your luggage on the boat at noon and cycle to Bratislava. Following the Danube and the EuroVelo 6 route, you’ll ride on scenic bike paths through Hainburg.
- Option 2 : Embark at 2:30 p.m. and enjoy a cruise through the Floodplain National Park and Hainburg Gate, all the way to the Hungarian capital.
Day 2: Budapest (22 to 56 km)
The day begins with a guided bus tour of the city (optional - 3 hours). Then, switch to your bike and choose between two routes:
- loop in Budapest, including Margit-sziget Island, away from the traffic (22 km)
- loop to the picturesque village of Szentendre (56 km), known for its many museums, artist studios, and art galleries.
In the evening, take in the city as it reveals another side at night.
Day 3: From Kalocsa to Baja (55 km)
In the morning, an optional guided tour of Kalocsa Cathedral and the Baroque Episcopal Palace is available (1 hour). Then, cycle towards Baja, a medieval town with a stunning old city center. Along the way, you’ll ride through bucolic countryside, possibly encountering pilgrims, as this route is shared with Hungary’s most famous pilgrimage trail.
Day 4: Belgrade and Sava Island (35 km)
As for each of the capitals, you can take the optional guided bus tour of the city, including the Kalemegdan Fortress (about 2.5 hours). In the afternoon, cycle towards Sava Island (a Danube tributary), mainly on bike paths away from traffic. You’ll pass through the recreational areas of the Serbian capital.
Day 5: Passing the Iron Gates and Visiting Golubac Fortress
Today, stay on board and let yourself be carried away. The boat sails through Orsova Bay and passes the famous "Iron Gates," an impressive canyon with steep slopes. Stop in Golubac where you visit the fortress.
Day 6: From Mohács to Baja (36 km)
Your bike takes you away from traffic and along the Danube to Baja. The pretty town hall with its tower and the old town are worth a visit. Once you arrive safely, take a walk to enjoy the charm of this beautiful Hungarian Baroque city.
Day 7: From Esztergom or Štúrovo to Komárno (56 km)
Before mounting your bike, visit Esztergom Cathedral (optional). Today's final leg of this journey takes you to Komár, the birthplace of Franz Lehár, the famous operetta composer. Along the way, you'll cycle mainly on beautiful cycle paths and discover the village of Moča and the Roman fort of Kelemantia.
Day 8: Vienna
End of the tour after breakfast. Disembarkation before 10:30 am.
