De MS SE-Manon vaart over de Donau bij Dürnstein in de Wachau-vallei tijdens een fiets- en vaarvakantie tussen Passau en Boedapest.

Danube

Danube Bike and Barge Tour Passau to Budapest – MS SE-Manon

8 days

Bike and Barge Holidays

startdag(en): Friday

200km

Easy

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About this Danube Bike and Barge Tour with MS SE-Manon

Discover the Danube the best way possible: by bike and by ship. On this 8-day bike and barge tour from Passau to Budapest and back, you’ll experience the perfect mix of active cycling, relaxed sailing and cultural highlights.

Cycle past historic cities such as Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, through the famous Wachau Valley and the enchanting Hungarian Danube Bend.

Aboard the MS SE-Manon you’ll enjoy comfortable cabins, panoramic views, a small pool and a wellness area — ideal for relaxing after a day of cycling. Let the onboard kitchen spoil you and experience the charm of this stylish river cruise.

“The MS SE-Manon combines relaxation, comfort and discovery: an elegant ship for an unforgettable Danube experience.”

Het Hongaarse Parlementsgebouw in Boedapest aan de Donau, een indrukwekkend herkenningspunt tijdens een Donau fiets- en vaarvakantie.

Uitzicht op het kasteel van Bratislava met zijn vier torens, gelegen boven de Donau in de Slowaakse hoofdstad – een hoogtepunt tijdens de Donau fiets- en vaarvakantie.

Highlights of this bike and barge tour

Experience the charm of Central Europe by bike and by ship. This 8-day Danube bike and barge tour Passau – Budapest – Passau aboard the MS SE-Manon lets you discover the Danube like never before: baroque towns, imperial capitals and quiet riverscapes alternate throughout the journey. Every day combines active cycling with relaxation aboard this comfortable 4-star bike and barge ship with wellness area and panoramic restaurant.

Vác & Visegrád – baroque villages and fortresses in the Hungarian Danube Bend
Vienna – Austria’s capital, full of imperial grandeur and coffee house culture
Bratislava – a charming capital with medieval streets and Danube views
Budapest – the “Pearl of the Danube,” home to the Parliament, Chain Bridge and thermal baths
Wachau Valley – UNESCO World Heritage vineyards, castles and abbeys
Schlögen Bend – a spectacular river loop through the Austrian hill country

Day-to-day itinerary

Your journey begins in the enchanting “city of three rivers” — Passau, where the Danube, Inn and Ilz meet. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the special atmosphere of this baroque university town with its narrow lanes, cosy terraces and the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to the largest church organ in the world. After checking in aboard the MS SE-Manon (from 4:00 PM), you’ll have time to relax on board or take a short walk through the old town. In the late afternoon there’s a welcome drink and a first introduction to the crew and your fellow travelers. As the sun sets, the ship leaves Passau and sails downstream toward Engelhartszell. During dinner, enjoy the panoramic view over the glistening water and wooded banks of the Danube. The tone is set for a relaxed yet active week full of cycling and river magic. In the evening, the ship moors at Engelhartszell, where the quiet of the Danube Valley welcomes you.

After breakfast, you’ll cycle for the first time. From Engelhartszell, home to Austria’s only Trappist Abbey, you follow the banks of the Danube toward the famous Schlögen Bend — an impressive double loop where the river winds through the hill country. Several viewpoints along the way invite you to stop for photos of this natural wonder. The route continues through charming villages, green meadows and small orchards. Along the way, typical Austrian Heurigen (wine or cider taverns) invite you to pause for a local drink or homemade cake. In the afternoon you’ll reach Brandstatt, where the ship is already waiting. While you relax on the sun deck, the MS SE-Manon continues into the evening. The crew serves a delicious dinner as the ship glides quietly toward Bratislava — a soothing overnight sail that gives you a preview of the capitals to come.

In the morning, the SE-Manon arrives in Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia. The day begins with a relaxed ride through the gently rolling landscape of the Danube Valley. You’ll first head toward Hainburg, an old fortified town with medieval gates, then on to the elegant Schloss Hof. This former summer residence of Empress Maria Theresa is surrounded by lush baroque gardens and an idyllic farm — perfect for a picnic stop. From there you cycle back toward Bratislava, optionally with a short detour to Devín, where a castle ruin towers high above the river. Back in the city, explore the compact old town with its cobblestone streets, lively squares and terraces. Tip: take the tourist train up to the castle for a beautiful view over the Danube. In the evening, the ship departs for Budapest; on board you can enjoy a scenic sunset dinner cruise.

You’ll wake up to the impressive skyline of Budapest: bridges, church towers and the majestic Parliament building reflected in the river. Today is all about freedom — choose a relaxing day in the city or an easy bike ride. Cyclists follow the Danube north to the charming artists’ village of Szentendre, known for its Mediterranean atmosphere, narrow lanes and countless galleries and cafés. Enjoy lunch on a riverside terrace before heading back to the ship. If you’d rather explore Budapest, walk or take the tram past the highlights: the Chain Bridge, the Fisherman’s Bastion, Castle Hill and the lively market hall. Back on board, unwind with a drink on the sun deck as the city glows with thousands of lights. Overnight, the ship sails on toward Vác.

Today you’ll experience the nature of the Hungarian Danube Bend, also known as the “Hungarian Wachau.” The route starts in Vác, a baroque town with pastel-colored houses and a lively market. From here you cycle through gently rolling landscapes and small villages, always with the river in view. The Danube winds gracefully between wooded hills — a paradise for nature lovers. Your destination is Esztergom, Hungary’s former royal city, with its impressive basilica — the country’s largest church — rising high above the riverbank. Be sure to visit the viewpoint at the dome for a panoramic view over the river. Back on board, enjoy a relaxed evening as the SE-Manon sails on toward Vienna. Treat yourself to dinner in the panoramic restaurant as the ship gently approaches the Austrian border.

Today you have all the time to discover Vienna, the city of music and emperors. From the mooring point in Nussdorf, the city center is easily reached by metro or a short bike ride. Visit the imposing St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the majestic Hofburg Palace, or the elegant buildings along the Ringstraße, including the State Opera and Burgtheater. In the many coffee houses, taste the authentic atmosphere over a slice of Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel. Art lovers can visit the Kunsthistorisches Museum or the modern art at the MuseumsQuartier. For a quieter pace, stroll through the Naschmarkt or enjoy a bike ride through Prater Park, home of the famous Ferris wheel. In the evening, everyone returns to the ship for dinner, after which it sets course for the Wachau Valley — the romantic finale of your journey.

An unforgettable day! The Wachau Valley is one of Europe’s most beautiful river landscapes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason. You’ll cycle through picturesque villages like Dürnstein, with its blue church tower, and past vineyards, apricot orchards and medieval castle ruins. Along the way, sample local wine or apricot liqueur at a Weingut. The highlight is the baroque Melk Abbey, an impressive monastery overlooking the river. The ride ends in Pöchlarn, where the SE-Manon awaits. In the evening, enjoy a festive farewell dinner with a view of the evening Danube landscape — a fitting finale to an unforgettable journey.

In the early morning, the ship glides peacefully through the final stretch of the Danube toward Passau. On the sun deck, take one last look at the green valley and the famous Schlögen Bend. After breakfast, disembarkation takes place around 10:30 AM. You may still have time to walk through Passau’s historic center or pick up souvenirs before your journey home. Full of new impressions, you’ll look back on a week of variety, relaxation and discovery — a tour that brings the beauty of Central Europe along the Danube unforgettably to life.

Route map

Explore the full route below of this unforgettable Danube bike and barge tour with the MS SE-Manon, from Passau via Bratislava, Budapest and Vienna back to Austria.

During this 8-day tour you’ll discover four countries — Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary — and experience the Danube at its finest: a varied journey full of culture, nature, comfort and onboard culinary delights.

Routekaart van de 8-daagse fiets- en vaarvakantie over de Donau met de MS SE-Manon van Passau via Bratislava en Boedapest naar Wenen en terug.

Accommodation during your bike and barge tour

During this 8-day Danube bike and barge tour from Passau to Budapest and back, you’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: active cycling along the famous Danube Cycle Path and relaxed cruising aboard the comfortable MS SE-Manon.

The MS SE-Manon combines modern elegance with a warm, homely atmosphere. After a day full of impressions along historic towns, vineyards and river landscapes, you can look forward to a cosy evening with excellent meals (full board), panoramic Danube views, and time to unwind in the wellness area or on the sun deck.

Whether you enjoy a drink in the lounge, relax in the sauna, or read a book by the pool, the MS SE-Manon has everything for a carefree vacation. Thanks to the personal service and relaxed ambiance, every day feels like a small cruise full of comfort, culture and nature — the perfect way to discover the Danube.

Het riviercruiseschip MS SE-Manon tijdens een fiets- en vaarvakantie over de Donau tussen Passau en Boedapest

Sights along the route

Engelhartszell

Your journey begins and ends in Engelhartszell, a peaceful Austrian village on the Danube. Here you’ll find the famous Trappist Abbey, where monks still produce liqueur and beer. It’s the perfect place to begin or end your Danube bike and barge tour with the MS SE-Manon. Peace, nature and hospitality come together here — a charming start to an unforgettable bike and barge tour.

Schlögener Donauschlinge, beroemde rivierbocht van de Donau in Oostenrijk – highlight tijdens fiets-vaarvakanties op de Donau Radweg.

Schlögener Schlinge

The Schlögen Bend is one of the most spectacular spots along the Danube. Here the river forms two impressive loops through the Austrian hill country. During your Danube bike and barge tour aboard the MS SE-Manon, you can admire this natural wonder from the viewpoint or cycle past it along the Danube Cycle Path. The silence, the panorama and the greenery make this a magical spot for cyclists and nature lovers.

De MS Primadonna vaart langs het barokke klooster van Dürnstein in de Wachau-vallei, een hoogtepunt van de Donau-fietscruise tussen Passau en Boedapest.

Wachau valley

The Wachau Valley is Austria’s most beautiful wine region and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Between Melk and Krems you’ll cycle past vineyards, baroque monasteries and medieval villages. Melk Abbey in particular is a highlight: impressively perched above the Danube. Along the way, sample local wine or apricot products. Aboard the MS SE-Manon, this is the perfect combination of culture, nature and gastronomy.

Het imposante Kunsthistorisches Museum in Wenen met zijn barokke koepel en klassieke gevel, een van de hoogtepunten van de Donau-fietscruise met de MS Primadonna.

Vienna

In Vienna you’ll taste the grandeur of the Habsburg Empire. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the elegant Ringstraße.

Tip: take a break in a classic coffee house with a slice of Sachertorte — a true Viennese tradition!

Bratislava

The Slovak capital sits directly on the Danube and surprises visitors with its charming old town and lively terraces. Visit Bratislava Castle for a beautiful view over the river, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.

Budapest

Budapest is the glittering endpoint of your Danube bike and barge tour. Hungary’s capital enchants with the impressive Chain Bridge, the Parliament building and the thermal baths of Gellért and Széchenyi. Cycle along the Danube promenade or discover the nearby artists’ village of Szentendre. In the evening, enjoy the view of the illuminated city aboard the MS SE-Manon — an unforgettable moment during this Danube bike and barge tour.

Esztergom

Esztergom is one of Hungary’s oldest cities, known for its monumental basilica rising high above the Danube. From the bike or the deck of the MS SE-Manon, you’ll have a beautiful view over this historic town. Inside, admire world-class art and mosaics. The route past Esztergom is a historical and cultural highlight of your Danube bike and barge tour.

Prices & departure dates

Prices per person. Departure day: Friday.

2026

Travel dates 2026	Lower deck 2-person cabin	Middle deck 2-person cabin	Upper deck 2-person cabin
02 oct – 09 oct	€ 1.349	€ 1.599	€ 1.749
14 aug – 21 aug 11 sep – 18 sep 18 sep – 25 sep	€ 1.449	€ 1.649	€ 1.799

2027

Travel dates 2027	Lower deck 2-person cabin	Middle deck 2-person cabin	Upper deck 2-person cabin
01 oct – 08 oct 08 oct – 15 oct	€ 1.349	€ 1.599	€ 1.749
25 jun – 02 jul 02 jul – 09 jul 09 jul – 16 jul 16 jul – 23 jul 06 aug – 13 aug 13 aug – 20 aug 20 aug – 27 aug 10 sep – 17 sep 17 sep – 24 sep 24 sep – 01 okt	€ 1.499	€ 1.699	€ 1.849

Discounts

Child discount: up to age 13, 20% off in a 2-person cabin with 1 adult
2-person cabin for single use: 40% surcharge (limited availability)

Included

7 nights aboard the MS SE-Manon in an outside cabin with private bathroom (shower/WC) Itinerary as described, from/to Passau – Engelhartszell (Austria)
Full board: 7x breakfast, 6x packed lunch for cyclists or light lunch on board (for non-cyclists), 6x afternoon coffee/tea, 6x 3-course dinner, 1x farewell dinner with welcome drink
Daily cabin cleaning, towel and linen change as needed Welcome drink and
Captain’s Dinner on board
Daily briefing with information about the day’s cycling stage
Onboard guidance by experienced, multilingual tour staff
Digital travel documents via the GUIBO app, including route descriptions, GPS tracks and practical information
All port and passenger fees included Free use of onboard facilities, including restaurant, panoramic lounge, bar, sun deck, wellness area with sauna & whirlpool, massage corner and library
Cycling routes along the Danube Cycle Path through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary

Not included

Travel to and from Passau / Engelhartszell (Austria)
Bike rental (optional add-on)
Bike helmet (recommended; limited stock for sale on board)
Entrance fees, excursions, city tours and ferries en route
Crew and guide gratuities (optional, guideline €7–10 pp/day)
Onboard beverages (soft drinks, wine, beer, coffee, etc.)
Parking in Passau / Engelhartszell
Optional Passau ↔ Engelhartszell transfer Travel, luggage and cancellation insurance

Optional extras

Prices per person.

Extra / Surcharge	Price

Rental bike, 7-speed (unisex) incl. bike panniers

€ 120,-

E-bike rental, 8-speed

€ 241,-

Bring your own bike

€ 65,-

Bike helmet (UVEX I-VO)

€ 55,-

Bus transfer Passau ↔ Engelhartszell (without bike)

€ 61,-

Parking (open lot, 7 nights)

€ 96,-

Private garage (7 nights)	€ 120,-
Phone holder	€ 11

Tip: We’re happy to arrange your parking spot in Passau in advance, so you can board the MS SE-Manon worry-free and start your Danube bike and barge tour relaxed. Let us know at booking if you’d like to use this parking service.

Practical information

Discover the Danube through a unique combination of bike and ship. On this 8-day tour with the MS SE-Manon, you’ll sail from Passau via Bratislava, Budapest and Vienna and back — four countries, baroque towns, the iconic Wachau Valley, and relaxed cruising on board.

Travel information

Trip type: self-guided bike and barge tour with onboard support
Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
Distance: average 40–55 km per day (total approx. 186–247 km)
Level: easy – mostly flat, ideal for recreational cyclists and e-bikers
Start/end point: Passau (Germany) / Engelhartszell (Austria) – approx. 30 km from Passau
Departure: weekly on Fridays, July through October
Passengers: max. approx. 148 guests on board
Minimum group size: 90 guests (at least 21 days before departure)
Languages on board: German and English
Ship: MS SE-Manon – comfortable 4-star bike and barge ship with panoramic restaurant, lounge, bar, reading corner, sun deck, pool and wellness area with sauna and whirlpool
Cycling route: follows the Danube Cycle Path through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, with stops in Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, the Wachau Valley and the Schlögen Bend
Meals: full board — breakfast, packed or light lunch, afternoon coffee/tea, 3-course dinner and farewell dinner with welcome drink
Helmet use: recommended for all cyclists; mandatory for children up to 12 in Austria and up to 15 in Slovakia
Bringing your own bike: allowed on request (e-bikes only with removable battery, limited spaces)
Digital travel guide: via the free GUIBO app, with route descriptions, GPS tracks and practical information (works offline)
Travel documents: valid passport or ID (valid at least 6 months after return)
Suitability: not suitable for travelers with limited mobility

Cycling & route

You’ll cycle mostly along the famous Danube Cycle Path — a flat, well-maintained route directly along the river. The route passes through historic towns, vineyards and UNESCO World Heritage sites. You cycle independently, at your own pace, while your luggage stays comfortably on board. Rental bikes (7-speed) and e-bikes (8-speed, Velo de Ville, SE-Tours edition) are available, including bike bag and insurance.

Onboard the MS SE-Manon

Enjoy the comfort of this elegant 4-star bike and barge ship. You’ll stay in a spacious outside cabin with private bathroom (shower/WC), air conditioning, TV, safe and hairdryer. On board you’ll find a panoramic restaurant, a cosy lounge with bar, a library, a wellness area with sauna and whirlpool, a small pool on the sun deck, and comfortable loungers to relax after a day of cycling. The kitchen serves delicious international and regional dishes, freshly prepared daily, while you enjoy the view of the passing Danube landscape.

Frequently asked questions about this Danube bike and barge tour

Yes. The route mostly follows the flat Danube Cycle Path, with an average daily distance of 40–55 km. This makes the tour well suited to recreational cyclists and e-bikers alike.

The bike & barge holiday from Passau to Budapest is operated aboard the MS SE-Manon, while the Danube Waltz bike & barge cruise to Budapest is operated aboard two different ships: the MS VIVIENNE and the MS LISABELLE. Both bike & barge holidays follow the same Danube Waltz route, but the ship and onboard atmosphere may differ. View the Danube Waltz bike & barge holiday here.

The main differences are:

the ship and its design
the cabins and facilities
the atmosphere and capacity onboard
the departure dates: not every departure date is operated by the same ship.

Yes, on request and with limited availability (surcharge €65). E-bikes are only permitted with a removable battery.

A helmet is recommended for all cyclists and mandatory for children up to age 12 in Austria and up to age 15 in Slovakia.

The cycling season runs from April through October. This specific tour departs weekly on Fridays, from July through October.

Very fit — this tour is rated easy. The route is mostly flat, with average daily distances of 40–55 km, making it accessible for recreational cyclists, families and e-bike riders alike.