Danube
Danube bike and barge tour Passau–Budapest – MS Prinzessin Katharina
8 days
Bike and Barge Holidays
startdag(en): Saturday
165km
Easy
About this 8-day Danube bike and barge tour
Cycling the Danube from Passau to Budapest is one of Europe’s most rewarding active holidays: eight easy days combining cycling, a river cruise, and three capital cities Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest, without ever repacking your suitcase. Aboard the elegant MS Prinzessin Katharina, you’ll pedal an average of 40 km a day along flat, well-signposted paths through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, the wild Schlögen Loop, and the Danube Bend near Visegrád, while the ship carries your luggage and sails on to the next destination overnight.
This tour suits beginners, families, and anyone who prefers an easy cycling grade with full support: daily route briefings, GPS navigation via the Guibo app, and a tour guide on board. Full board is included, along with three rest days to explore Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava at your own pace.
Cycle and cruise through three countries along the Danube, where imperial cities, vineyards, and river landscapes create an unforgettable journey
Highlights of this Danube bike and barge holiday
- The Schlögen Loop — a dramatic bend in the Danube through Austria’s Danube Valley
- Vienna — a full day to explore Habsburg palaces, the State Opera, and the historic Ringstraße
- The Wachau Valley (UNESCO World Heritage) — vineyard villages, Melk Abbey, and the ruins above Dürnstein
- Bratislava — Slovakia’s compact, walkable capital, with panoramic castle views
- Budapest — the “Danube Queen,” with a full free day plus an optional 46 km ride to artsy Szentendre
- The Danube Bend — a scenic loop from Visegrád to the baroque town of Vác
Day-by-day itinerary
Your journey begins in charming Engelhartszell, near Passau on the banks of the Danube. This atmospheric town is known for Engelszell Abbey and is the ideal starting point of your bike and barge holiday.
After arrival, you check in on board the comfortable four-star MS Prinzessin Katharina, equipped for a relaxing week on the river. In the evening, enjoy your first dinner on board as part of the full-board arrangement. Take a short walk along the promenade or relax on the sun deck while admiring the river views, the perfect beginning of an unforgettable week of culture, nature, and cycling along the Danube.
After breakfast, you start your first cycling stage along the famous Danube Cycle Path, mostly flat and traffic-free. The route leads through peaceful villages and orchards towards Schlögener Schlinge, the spectacular double river bend where the Danube winds deeply through the hills.
Along the way, traditional guesthouses invite you to stop for coffee and apple strudel. In Aschach an der Donau you board the ship again, while in the evening MS Prinzessin Katharina sails towards Vienna. Enjoy a three-course dinner on board as the river landscape slowly passes by.
Today you explore Vienna, the imperial capital of Austria. After breakfast, you can discover the city at your own pace or join an optional cycling tour.
Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg, and Schönbrunn Palace, or stroll along the elegant Ringstraße. Take a break in a traditional Viennese café for Sachertorte and espresso.
In the evening, everyone returns on board MS Prinzessin Katharina for dinner. While you dine, the ship departs towards Budapest, a memorable cruise experience through Central Europe.
This morning you arrive in Budapest, known as the Pearl of the Danube. From the deck you can admire the impressive Hungarian Parliament Building, Széchenyi Chain Bridge, and Buda Castle.
Cyclists can choose between a relaxed ride to the artists’ town of Szentendre or exploring Budapest itself. The route follows the Danube through green parks and attractive suburban areas.
After returning on board, enjoy the wellness facilities such as sauna or massage, followed by dinner on MS Prinzessin Katharina. In the evening, the illuminated city creates a magical view from the sun deck.
Today you cycle through the Hungarian Danube Bend, often called the Hungarian Wachau. The route starts in Visegrád, known for its medieval fortress overlooking the Danube.
You follow a scenic route through small villages to the baroque town of Vác, where colourful façades and lively terraces surround the main square. Along the way, you pass orchards and vineyards.
Back in Visegrád, a relaxing afternoon on board awaits, followed by dinner with regional specialities on MS Prinzessin Katharina. End the day on deck with views over the shimmering river.
In the morning you arrive in Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, beautifully located at the foot of the Carpathians. Explore the old town by bike or on foot through winding streets past Grassalkovich Palace and Michael’s Gate.
From Bratislava Castle you enjoy panoramic views across three countries. In the afternoon, enjoy free time in the city or relax with a drink on a terrace along the Danube.
In the evening, MS Prinzessin Katharina continues sailing towards the Wachau valley while the sun sets over the river landscape.
Your final cycling day is an absolute highlight. The Wachau is a UNESCO World Heritage region, famous for vineyards, monasteries, and medieval villages.
You cycle through places such as Dürnstein and Spitz, with views of castles and apricot orchards. Along the route, there is time for a wine tasting or a light lunch.
The stage ends in Melk, known for the impressive Melk Abbey. In Pöchlarn you board MS Prinzessin Katharina again for the return cruise to Engelhartszell and enjoy a festive farewell dinner on board.
After breakfast, MS Prinzessin Katharina arrives back in Engelhartszell. Take one final moment to enjoy the view over the Danube before disembarking.
Your journey through three countries along the Danube ends here, leaving you with lasting impressions of culture, nature, and hospitality.
Route Map of this 8-Day Danube Bike Cruise
Discover below the route of this unique bike and barge holiday along the Danube with MS Prinzessin Katharina. The map shows the full itinerary from Vienna via Bratislava and Budapest back to Austria.
During this 8-day bike cruise, you experience three countries along the Danube, a relaxed journey combining culture, nature, comfort, and full board on board.
Accommodation during your bike and barge tour
During this 8-day bike and barge holiday from Engelhartszell near Passau to Budapest and back, you enjoy the best of two worlds: active cycling along the famous Danube Cycle Path and relaxed cruising on board MS Prinzessin Katharina.
MS Prinzessin Katharina combines classic elegance with modern comfort. After a day full of impressions through historic cities, vineyards, and river landscapes, a pleasant evening awaits on board with excellent meals, panoramic views over the Danube, and a relaxed atmosphere among fellow travellers. Thanks to the personal service and comfortable setting, every day feels like a small holiday of its own.
Here you will find all information about MS Prinzessin Katharina, the comfortable ship that accompanies you during this bike and barge holiday along the Danube. Discover the facilities on board, cabin types, dining experience, and the relaxed atmosphere that makes travelling by ship such an enjoyable part of the journey.
Sights along the route
Engelhartszell
Engelhartszell is a peaceful Austrian village on the Danube where your bike and barge holiday with MS Prinzessin Katharina begins and ends. The village is known for Engelszell Abbey, where monks still produce traditional liqueur and beer. It is the perfect place to start or finish your Danube journey, where tranquillity, nature, and Austrian hospitality come together.
Schlögener Schlinge
Schlögener Schlinge is one of the most spectacular natural highlights along the Danube. Here the river makes two impressive bends through the Austrian hills, creating one of the most scenic sections of the route.
During your bike and barge holiday with MS Prinzessin Katharina, you can admire this natural wonder from a viewpoint or cycle alongside it on the Danube Cycle Path. The silence, panoramic views, and green landscape make this a memorable place for cyclists and nature lovers.
Wachau-valley
Wachau is one of the most scenic stretches along the Danube, famous for vineyards, historic villages, and cultural landmarks. This UNESCO World Heritage region offers a beautiful mix of river landscapes, wine terraces, and medieval charm, making it one of the highlights of your bike and barge holiday.
Vienna
In Vienna you experience the grandeur of the Habsburg era. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the elegant Ringstraße.
Tip: take a break in a traditional Viennese coffee house and enjoy a slice of Sachertorte — a true local classic.
Bratislava
Bratislava lies directly on the Danube and surprises visitors with its atmospheric old town and lively terraces. Visit Bratislava Castle for beautiful views over the river and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Slovak capital.
Budapest
Budapest is the shining highlight of your Danube bike cruise. The Hungarian capital impresses with Széchenyi Chain Bridge, the Hungarian Parliament Building, and the thermal baths of Gellért Baths and Széchenyi Thermal Bath. Cycle along the Danube promenade or visit nearby Szentendre, known for its artistic atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy the illuminated city from on board MS Prinzessin Katharina — one of the most memorable moments of this bike and barge holiday.
Esztergom
Esztergom is one of the oldest cities in Hungary and is known for the monumental Esztergom Basilica, rising high above the Danube. From your bike or from the deck of MS Prinzessin Katharina, you enjoy impressive views over this historic city. Inside the basilica, visitors can admire remarkable artworks and mosaics. The route past Esztergom is a cultural and historical highlight of your bike and barge holiday.
Prices & departure dates
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, including full board and VAT.
2027
Danube 3 Countries Tour
Engelhartszell – Vienna – Budapest – Bratislava – Engelhartszell
8 Days / 7 Nights
Travel Dates
| Season | Departure Dates (Saturday) |
|---|---|
| Season A | 10 Apr • 02 Oct |
| Season B | 24 Apr |
| Season C | 08 May • 22 May • 12 Jun • 26 Jun • 24 Jul • 31 Jul • 28 Aug • 04 Sep • 18 Sep |
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, including full board and VAT.
| Cabin Category | Season A | Season B | Season C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Deck – Eco Twin Cabin* | €999 | €1099 | €1,179 |
| Main Deck – Twin Cabin | €1,199 | €1,299 | €1,379 |
| Main Deck – Single Cabin | €1,479 | €1,579 | €1759 |
| Upper Deck – Triple Cabin | €1,149 | €1,249 | €1,329 |
| Upper Deck – Twin Cabin (French Balcony) | €1,399 | €1,499 | €1,679 |
| Upper Deck – Single Cabin (French Balcony) | €1,679 | €1,779 | €1,959 |
Supplements & Discounts
| Item | Details |
| Single Occupancy | 40% supplement on Twin Cabin (limited availability) |
| Child Discount | 20% discount for children up to 13 years sharing a Triple Cabin with two paying adults |
*Eco cabins are located at the front or rear of the ship where engine and generator noise may be noticeable during navigation and lock passages.
Included
- 7 nights on board MS Prinzessin Katharina in an outside cabin with private bathroom (shower/WC)
- Journey according to itinerary from and to Engelhartszell
- Full board: 7 breakfasts, 6 packed lunches for cyclists or light lunch on board for non-cyclists, 6 afternoon coffee/tea breaks, 6 three-course dinners, and 1 farewell dinner with welcome drink
- Daily cabin cleaning, towel and bed linen change when needed
- Welcome drink and captain’s dinner
- Information meeting and daily briefing about the cycling stages
- On-board assistance by experienced tour leaders
- Digital travel documents via the GUIBO app, including route descriptions, GPS tracks, and practical information
- All harbour and passenger charges
- Use of on-board facilities including restaurant, lounge, bar, sun deck, massage corner, and reading area
- Cycling routes along the Danube Cycle Path through Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary
Not included
- Travel to and from Engelhartszell
- Bike rental
- Helmet
- Single cabin supplement: +40% (limited availability)
- Entrance fees, excursions, city tours, and ferries along the route
- Tips for crew and tour guide (optional, guideline €7–10 per person per day)
- Drinks on board (soft drinks, wine, beer, coffee, etc.)
- Parking in Engelhartszell
- Optional transfer Passau ↔ Engelhartszell
- Travel, luggage, and cancellation insurance
Optional extras
Make your bike and barge holiday even more comfortable with the extras below.
Prices are per person, including VAT.
| Extra / Surcharge | Price |
|---|---|
| 7-speed rental bike (unisex) | € 129 |
| E-bike rental (8-speed) | € 261 |
| Bringing your own bike | € 74 |
| Bicycle helmet (UVEX I-VO) | € 70 |
| Bus transfer Passau ↔ Engelhartszell (without bike), one-way per person | € 75 |
| Parking (open air, 7 nights, video monitored) | € 103 |
| Private garage (7 nights) | € 125 |
Tip: we are happy to arrange your parking space in Passau in advance, so you can board MS Prinzessin Katharina without worries and start your Danube bike cruise in complete comfort. Please indicate at the time of booking if you would like to use this parking service.
Practical information
- Travel type: individual bike and barge holiday with on-board support
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Distance: average 35–50 km per day (total approx. 163–176 km)
- Level: easy – mostly flat, ideal for recreational cyclists and e-bikers
- Start and end point: Engelhartszell (approx. 30 km from Passau)
- Departure: weekly on Saturdays, from April to October
- Number of passengers: maximum approx. 140 guests on board
- Minimum number of participants: 80 guests (confirmed at least 21 days before departure)
- Languages on board: German and English
- Ship: MS Prinzessin Katharina – comfortable 4-star bike ship with panoramic restaurant, lounge, bar, reading corner, and sun deck
- Cycling route: follows the Danube Cycle Path through Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary, with stops in Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, Wachau, and Schlögener Schlinge
- Meals: full board including breakfast, packed lunch or light lunch, afternoon coffee/tea, and three-course dinner
- Helmet use: recommended for all cyclists; mandatory for children up to 12 years in Austria and up to 15 years in Slovakia
- Bringing your own bike: allowed on request (e-bikes only with removable battery)
- Digital travel guide: via the free GUIBO app with route descriptions, GPS tracks, and practical information (available offline)
- Travel documents: valid passport or ID card (minimum 6 months valid after return)
- Suitability: not suitable for persons with limited mobility
What to bring
Comfortable cycling clothes, rain gear, sun protection, gloves, and sturdy shoes are essential. A helmet is strongly recommended and mandatory for children up to 12 years old. A safety vest is also recommended and required in Austria during twilight or poor visibility.
Cycling and route
You mainly cycle along the famous Danube Cycle Path, a flat and well-maintained route directly beside the Danube. The itinerary passes historic towns, vineyards, and UNESCO heritage sites. You cycle individually at your own pace while your luggage remains comfortably on board. Rental bikes (7 gears) and e-bikes (8 gears, Velo de Ville,) are available, including pannier bag and insurance.
On board MS Prinzessin Katharina
Enjoy the comfort of this elegant 4-star bike ship. You stay in a modern outside cabin with private bathroom (shower/WC), air conditioning, TV, and minibar. On board you will find a panoramic restaurant, lounge, bar, reading corner, massage room, and sun deck. The kitchen serves fresh Austrian and international dishes every day.
Digital travel guide
All travel information, harbour details, and cycling routes are available in the GUIBO app, including GPS tracks, route maps, and practical tips. The app also works offline, which is especially useful during your cycling stages.
Parking & Transfer
Parking is available in Engelhartszell:
- Open-air parking with video surveillance: €103 per week
- Private garage (also suitable for cars with bike rack): €125 per week
A transfer bus from and to Passau (without bike) is also available for €75 per person.
Please indicate at the time of booking if you would like to use the parking service or transfer. We are happy to arrange this in advance, so you can board MS Prinzessin Katharina in complete comfort.
Best Time to Travel
The cycling season runs from April to October. In spring, you enjoy blooming riverbanks along the Danube, in summer long sunny days, and in autumn the atmosphere of the wine harvest in Wachau.
Frequent asked questions about this Danube bike & barge holiday
The MS PRINZESSIN KATHARINA Danube Bike & Boat Cruise is an 8-day, 7-night cycling holiday that combines a relaxing river cruise with daily self-guided bike rides along the Danube. The route visits Austria, Hungary and Slovakia, including Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, the Wachau Valley and the famous Danube Bend.
The tour begins and ends in Engelhartszell, Austria, approximately 30 km from Passau, Germany. Embarkation takes place on Saturday afternoon, while disembarkation is on the following Saturday morning.
The itinerary includes three beautiful European countries:
- Austria
- Hungary
- Slovakia
During the cruise you will visit famous cities including Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava while cycling through picturesque river landscapes and charming villages.
The cycling routes are considered easy and are suitable for most recreational cyclists. The terrain is predominantly flat with well-maintained cycle paths following the Danube River.
- Total cycling distance: 115–174 km
- Daily rides: 36–49 km
- Mostly paved cycle paths
- Minimal elevation gain
No previous cycling holiday experience is required.
No. This is an individual self-guided cycling holiday.
Guests receive:
- GPS tracks
- Digital route book (GUIBO App)
- Daily tour briefing on board
- Route information and maps
A tour guide is available on board to assist with general questions.
Yes. The route is rated “easy,” mostly flat, and suitable for beginners, families, and children (minimum height 1.50m applies for e-bike rental).
Between 36 and 50 km per day, spread over four cycling days; the other three days are free days in Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava.
Seven nights in an outside cabin, full board (breakfast, lunch, afternoon coffee, dinner), daily route briefings, a tour guide on board, and digital travel documents via the Guibo app.
Only on request, due to limited storage space on the sun deck; e-bikes are only accepted with a removable battery.
Yes.
Electric bikes are available in limited numbers and are highly recommended for guests who prefer additional riding comfort.
Advance reservation is advised.
The MS PRINZESSIN KATHARINA combines comfortable river cruising with easy cycling through three of Central Europe’s most beautiful countries. Guests enjoy charming riverside villages, UNESCO World Heritage landscapes, historic capitals and the convenience of unpacking only once while their floating hotel travels with them. It is an excellent choice for couples, friends, solo travellers and active holidaymakers looking for a relaxed cycling adventure along the Danube.
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