Danube by bike with the family, from Linz to Vienna

Austria and the Danube by bike with the family, between Linz and Vienna

The Danube by bike is a playground for both young and old. This bike tour is an exciting journey of discoveries and a delightful holiday for the whole family. Although the programme is designed for youngsters, adults will enjoy the freedom of pedalling together as a family in total peace and quiet through the landscapes. A wide variety of activities is guaranteed: a donkey riding adventure and even a ride on the oldest Ferris wheel in the world are just a few of the many highlights.

Highlights of the holiday:

• The landscapes between Linz and Pöstlingberg
• The Grein City Theatre
• The Celtic Open-Air Museum in Mitterkirchen
• The Prater amusement park, including ferries wheel ride included
• Vienna 
• Wachau Valley

Day 1: Arrival in Linz

Welcome and pick up your travel documents. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Our suggestion to amaze with your children: embark on a journey into a unique world on the dragon train through the land of dwarfs. The backdrop for this experience is of course the historic and beautiful city of Linz.

Overnight in Linz.

Day 2: From Linz to Mitterkirchen (40 km)

Today, visit a Celtic open-air museum. In a reconstructed village dating back to the Iron Age, discover what life and customs were like in those times. Accommodation for this stage is in a comfortable farmhouse in the Machland region. Dinner will be carefully prepared and served in a warm, friendly atmosphere — the perfect opportunity to taste delicious homemade Austrian specialities.

Overnight in Mitterkirchen.

Day 3: From Mitterkirchen to Strudengau (40 km)

On your way to Strudengau, you will discover castles and ancient cities nestled among wooded hills. At the Grein Maritime Museum, admire models of ships that were built centuries ago, a lost naval know-how. In Ardagger, a water park and beach volleyball courts are just few of the countless possibilities for family fun. Enjoy!

Overnight in Strudengau.

Day 4: From Strudengau to Wachau (50 km)

Shortly after Pöchlarn, you enter the Wachau Valley, renowned as one of the most beautiful river landscapes in Europe. Overlooking the town, the majestic Benedictine Abbey of Melk stands out from afar with its impressive figure. Cycling along endless vineyards, you reach the charming wine-growing village of Spitz, nestled at the foot of the famous “Hill of a Thousand Buckets”.

Overnight in Wachau.

Day 5: Wachau (rest day)

You can enjoy the magnificent landscape of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As for activities, discover Dürnstein or Aggstein castles, visit the shipbuilding museum in Spitz or swim in the beautiful Danube.

Overnight in Wachau.

Day 6: From Wachau to Stockerau (50 km) | Train from Krems to Tulln

This day’s cycling stage immerses you in a spectacular landscape. Steep rock cliffs line the route, while terraced vineyards bask in the sunlight. Along the way, you’ll pass blossoming orchards, picturesque villages, majestic monasteries, and authentic historic castles. Take your time to stop and enjoy these stunning panoramas as you make your way to Stockerau.

Overnight in Stockerau.

Day 7: From Stockerau to Vienna (25 km)

Make your way to Vienna, at your own pace. Along the way, enjoy the fantastic overview of this vibrant and beautiful city. The capital of Austria is a city that loves its music and food. Children will love the traditional sweets and Viennese chocolate, a local institution. At almost every street corner, you can hear waltzes, impromptu violin concerts or other performances by remarkable street artists. Don’t forget to visit the “Prater” amusement park, home to the world’s oldest Ferris wheel (ticket included).

Overnight in Vienna.

Day 8: Vienna

End of your tour after breakfast. Before leaving Vienna, be sure to visit the famous Naschmarkt (foods and goods market) and stop at the magnificent Schönbrunn castle. The return journey by train to Linz is including (a supplement applies for personal bicycles). You can also extend your stay by booking an extra night.

General information:

• 8 days and 7 nights
• Accomodations: inns, 3 and 4* hotels
• Children's discount (quote upon request):
  • Extra bed in a double room (with 2 additional adults paying full price):
    • 0-6 years (-100%)
      • 7-11 years (-50%)
      • 12-14 years (-25%)
    • Bed in a single room (with one additional adult paying full price):
      • 0-6 years (-100%)
      • 7-11 years (-50%)
  • Children 0-15 years in their own room (-10%)

Dates:

Departures daily from April 25 to October 10, 2026

• Low season: October 3 to October 10
• Mid-season: September 19 to October 2
• High season: April 25 to September 18

Included:

• 7 nights with breakfasts
• Luggage transport
• Train between Krems and Tulln (including bicycle)
• A ride on the Vienna Ferris Wheel (at Prater)
• Child-friendly accommodation (playroom, outdoor playground)
• Return train between Vienna and Linz (personal bicycle not included)
• Travel book
• GPS App
• 7/7 telephone assistance

Not included:

• Transport to the departure point
• Lunches
• Drinks
• Tourist taxes
• Parking fees
• Personal expenses
• Everything that is not mentionned in the "included" section

Options:

• Standard bike or ebike rental
• Child seat or child bike (on request)
• Theft guarantee (rented bicycle)
• Half board (6 dinners except in Vienna)
• Additional nights in Vienna or Linz
• Train ride Vienna airport- Linz central station
• Cancellation-multi-risk insurance

Level :

1 2 3 4 5 6

Terrain:

• Mainly paved cycle paths suitable for families and beginners
• Some sections on secondary roads
• Near towns, particularly Vienna, expect some car traffic

Climate:

Continental, mild sun, pleasant temperatures.

Technicality:

• Bicycle: 25 to 50 km per day or 3 to 6 hours of cycling with children
• Easy itinerary to follow

Bibliography:

Bicycle guides and maps in Austria on: cartovelo.fr

Meals:

• Breakfasts: buffet
• Lunches: not included
• Dinners: optional

The bike:

• Rental bike (Standard bike or ebike): delivered to your hotel on day 2 at the latest. Equipped with a rear pannier, a front pannier, a repair kit and a lock.
• Personal bike: we do not recommend bikes with small tires. Starndard and mountain bikes are excellent. Remember to service your bike before leaving. Transport and return are at your expense.

Assistance:

Assistance in case of a breakdown (except for punctures).

Luggage:

They are transported by a courier or by our correspondent and limited to one piece of luggage per person. (maximum 23 kg)

Travel book :

A travel book will be send by post before departure.

Transport:

• By train: Vienna train station, regular service. Connections between Linz and Vienna.
• By car: approximately 12 hours from Paris (1,100 km)
• By plane: Vienna airport

Cancellation insurance :

In order to guarantee the reimbursement of costs in the event of cancellation of your stay, you can take out cancellation insurance. To learn more about insurance, click here.