Danube
Danube bike and barge tour: Engelhartszell to Vienna – MS Prinzessin Katharina
8 days
Bike and Barge Holidays
startdag(en): Saturday
210km
Easy
About this Danube bike and boat tour from Engelhartszell to Vienna
The Danube from Passau to Vienna is a self-guided cycling holiday through Austria’s most scenic river landscapes, ending in one of Europe’s most elegant capitals. Over eight days aboard MS Prinzessin Katharina, you’ll cycle roughly 194–208 km at your own pace, following the Danube through the dramatic Schlögen Loop, the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, and the historic river gorge of the Strudengau, before arriving in Vienna for a full free day.
Unlike guided tours, cycling here is individual and unguided: you follow GPS routes via the Guibo app and set your own pace each day, while the ship carries your luggage ahead to the next port. This makes it a good match for confident independent cyclists who want structure without a group pace.
Bike and sail along the Danube, from Engelhartszell to Vienna you discover charming riverside villages, impressive abbeys and one of Europe’s most scenic cycling routes
Highlights of this Danube Bike and Boat Holiday
- The Schlögen Loop — a dramatic 180° bend in the Danube, best seen from the small local ferry
- Linz — a stop in Upper Austria’s capital, reachable by the city’s bright yellow tram
- Klosterneuburg Monastery — a 900-year-old baroque abbey on the approach to Vienna
- Vienna — a full free day for St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg, the Ringstraße, and the Naschmarkt
- The Wachau Valley (UNESCO World Heritage) — vineyard terraces, Dürnstein’s blue abbey tower, and Melk Abbey
- The Strudengau — a once-feared river gorge, now a quiet stretch of forested cliffs and small towns
- Grein — home to Greinburg Castle, Austria’s oldest residential castle
Day-by-day Itinerary
Your Danube bike and boat holiday begins in Engelhartszell, a charming village on the Danube, located about 30 km from Passau. The village is best known for Engelhartszell Abbey, where Trappist liqueurs and beers are still produced according to centuries-old traditions.
From 4:00 pm, boarding begins on the MS Prinzessin Katharina, your comfortable floating hotel for the week ahead. On board, you will meet the crew and enjoy a welcome drink followed by dinner.
In the evening, there is time to explore the village or take a short walk along the river. The atmosphere on board is relaxed and welcoming, the perfect start to a week of cycling, culture and scenic river landscapes in Austria.
After breakfast, you start cycling along the famous Danube Cycle Path through the scenic landscape between Engelhartszell and Aschach. One of today’s highlights is Schlögener Schlinge, where the Danube forms a spectacular 180-degree river bend. From the viewpoint, you enjoy one of the most impressive panoramas along the route.
Before leaving Engelhartszell, there is time to visit Engelhartszell Abbey, known for its traditional Trappist liqueurs and monastery products.
In the afternoon, you rejoin the MS Prinzessin Katharina in Aschach and continue sailing via Linz to Tulln. In Linz, you may choose to explore the city by local sightseeing train before returning on board for dinner while the ship continues downstream through Austria.
Today you cycle the final kilometres towards Vienna, the city of music, imperial history and grand architecture. The route follows the banks of the Danube through vineyard landscapes and charming riverside villages.
Along the way, you can stop at Klosterneuburg Monastery, an impressive abbey that has overlooked the river for more than 900 years. In Kahlenbergerdorf, traditional wine taverns offer a perfect place for a break, with views over the surrounding vineyards.
A short detour to Kahlenberg rewards you with panoramic views of Vienna and the Danube. In the afternoon, you arrive in Nussdorf, where the MS Prinzessin Katharina awaits. Dinner is served on board, or you may choose to spend the evening enjoying a glass of wine in one of Vienna’s traditional wine houses.
Today is dedicated to exploring Vienna at your own pace. Visit world-famous landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg, the Vienna State Opera and the elegant Ringstrasse, lined with monumental architecture.
You may also explore Naschmarkt, Vienna’s famous food market, or enjoy a traditional coffee break with Sachertorte in one of the city’s classic cafés. An optional city tour by bike or bus is available, and a visit to Schönbrunn Palace offers a glimpse into the former summer residence of the Habsburg dynasty.
In the evening, all guests return on board the MS Prinzessin Katharina for dinner while the ship sails towards the Wachau valley. The illuminated skyline of Vienna provides a memorable farewell to Austria’s imperial capital.
After a short morning cruise, you arrive in the Wachau valley, a UNESCO World Heritage region known for vineyards, historic villages and castle landscapes along the Danube.
Today’s cycling stage follows one of the most scenic sections of the Danube from Krems an der Donau to Melk. Along the route, you pass Dürnstein, famous for its blue-and-white baroque church tower, and cycle through vineyards, apricot orchards and historic monastery landscapes.
The day ends in Melk, home to the impressive Melk Abbey, one of Austria’s most iconic baroque landmarks overlooking the river. This stage is considered one of the highlights of the entire Danube bike and boat holiday, combining culture, nature and relaxed cycling in one unforgettable day. In the evening, dinner is served on board the MS Prinzessin Katharina with views over the rolling hills of the Wachau valley.
Today you cycle through the varied river landscapes of the Strudengau region, once feared by boatmen for its strong currents and now known as one of the most peaceful stretches of the Danube.
The route passes small villages, riverside forests and traditional inns, offering several pleasant stops for lunch or coffee along the way. In the afternoon, you arrive in Grein, often called the “Pearl of the Danube”.
A visit to Greinburg Castle, the oldest inhabited castle in Austria, is highly recommended, or you may prefer a walk along the river promenade before returning to the MS Prinzessin Katharina for dinner while the evening light settles over the river.
Your final cycling day leads through the peaceful Machland plain, a region known for its open landscapes and historical heritage along the Danube.
Along the route, you can visit Keltendorf Mitterkirchen, an open-air museum where Iron Age life is brought back to life. In Mauthausen, there is the option to visit the memorial site of Mauthausen concentration camp, an important place of remembrance and reflection.
In the evening, you return on board the MS Prinzessin Katharina for the farewell dinner while sailing back towards Engelhartszell, enjoying the final views of the river that has accompanied your journey throughout the week.
After breakfast, the MS Prinzessin Katharina arrives back in Engelhartszell, marking the end of your Danube bike and boat holiday. After saying goodbye to the crew and fellow travellers, there is still time to enjoy the peaceful river setting before disembarkation.
If time allows, you may visit Engelhartszell Abbey once more or take a final walk along the promenade. This cycling holiday on the Danube ends as it began, with tranquillity, nature and the timeless atmosphere of one of Europe’s most beautiful river routes.
Route Map of the 8-Day Danube Bike Cruise with the MS Prinzessin Katharina
Discover the route of this unique Danube bike and boat holiday aboard the MS Prinzessin Katharina. The map shows the full itinerary from Engelhartszell via Linz, the Wachau valley and Vienna, returning through Austria along the Danube.
During this 8-day Danube cycling cruise, you experience the most scenic part of the river, from the impressive Schlögener Schlinge to imperial Vienna, combining culture, nature, comfort and full board on board.
Accommodation during your bike and boat tour
During this 8-day Danube bike and boat holiday from Engelhartszell to Vienna and back, you enjoy the perfect combination of active cycling along the famous Danube Cycle Path and comfortable cruising aboard the MS Prinzessin Katharina.
The MS Prinzessin Katharina combines classic elegance with modern comfort, offering a relaxing stay after each day of cycling along charming riverside towns, vineyard landscapes and UNESCO World Heritage sites along the Danube.
On board, you enjoy full board with carefully prepared meals, panoramic river views and pleasant evenings shared with fellow travellers. Thanks to the personal service and relaxed atmosphere, each day offers the perfect balance between active discovery and comfortable travel.
Places of interest along the route
Engelhartszell
Your journey begins and ends in Engelhartszell, a peaceful village on the Danube in Austria. It is home to the famous Engelhartszell Abbey, where Trappist monks still produce traditional liqueurs and beer. This quiet riverside setting is the perfect place to begin or end your Danube bike and boat holiday aboard the MS Prinzessin Katharina, where tranquillity, nature and hospitality come together.
Schlögener Schlinge
Schlögener Schlinge is one of the most spectacular highlights along the Danube, where the river forms dramatic bends through the Austrian hill landscape. During your Danube bike and boat holiday aboard the MS Prinzessin Katharina, you can admire this natural wonder from the viewpoint or cycle alongside it on the famous Danube Cycle Path. The peaceful surroundings, panoramic views and green landscapes make this one of the most memorable places along the route.
Wachau-valley
The Wachau Valley is considered the most beautiful wine region in Austria and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Between Melk and Krems an der Donau, you cycle through vineyards, baroque monasteries and charming medieval villages along the Danube. One of the absolute highlights is Melk Abbey, spectacularly located above the river. Along the route, enjoy local wines and traditional apricot specialties. During the Danube bike cruise aboard MS Prinzessin Katharina, this region offers the perfect combination of culture, nature and gastronomy.
Vienna
In Vienna, experience the grandeur of the Habsburg Empire. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the impressive St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and stroll along the elegant Ringstraße, lined with historic buildings and imperial architecture.
Tip: Take a break in a traditional Viennese coffee house and enjoy a slice of famous Sachertorte – one of Vienna’s most iconic culinary specialties.
Linz
Linz is one of the cultural highlights of your Danube bike and boat holiday aboard MS Prinzessin Katharina. Located directly on the Danube, the lively capital of Upper Austria uniquely combines history, art and modern technology. During your visit, take a ride on the bright yellow City Express, an ideal way to explore the historic centre and the impressive New Cathedral, Linz. Stroll across the elegant Hauptplatz, Linz with its beautiful facades, or visit the futuristic Ars Electronica Center, known as the museum of the future — a must-see for lovers of innovation and interactive experiences.
Prices & dates
Prices are per person based on double occupancy, including full board and VAT.
Engelhartszell – Vienna – Engelhartszell | 8 Days / 7 Nights
2027
The Danube in the Rhythm of the Waltz
Travel Dates
| Season | Departure Dates (Saturday) |
|---|---|
| Season A | 17 April |
| Season B | 1 May |
| Season C | 15 May • 29 May • 5 June • 19 June • 3 July • 10 July • 17 July • 7 August • 14 August • 21 August • 11 September • 25 September |
| Cabin Category | Season A | Season B | Season C |
| Main Deck – Eco Twin Cabin* | €899 | €999 | €1099 |
| Main Deck – Twin Cabin | €1099 | €1,199 | €1,299 |
| Main Deck – Single Cabin | €1,379 | €1,479 | €1,579 |
| Upper Deck – Triple Cabin | €1049 | €1,149 | €1,249 |
| Upper Deck – Twin Cabin (French Balcony) | €1,299 | €1,399 | €1,499 |
| Upper Deck – Single Cabin (French Balcony) | €1,579 | €1,679 | €1,779 |
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 aboard MS Prinzessin Katharina in a comfortable outside cabin with private bathroom (shower/WC)
- Cruise 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 service including cleaning, towel change and bed linen replacement when necessary
- Welcome drink and captain’s dinner
- Daily information meeting with explanation of the cycling stages
- Onboard assistance by experienced tour guides
- Digital travel documents via the GUIBO app, including route descriptions, GPS tracks and practical travel information
- All harbour, tourist and passenger taxes
- Free use of onboard facilities including panoramic restaurant, lounge, bar, sun deck, reading corner and massage area
- Cycling routes along the Danube Cycle Path in Austria — from Engelhartszell via Linz, Wachau Valley and Tulln to Vienna
Not included
- Travel to and from Engelhartszell
- Transfers and shuttle services, for example to and from Passau
- Bicycle rental (standard bike or e-bike, see price table under optional extras)
- Entrance fees and optional excursions
- City maps, ferry crossings and toll charges along the route
- Travel insurance and cancellation insurance
- Parking fees and toll charges at the departure port
- Gratuities for crew and tour guides
- Drinks on board (not included in full board)
Optional extras
Prices are per person, including VAT.
| Optional Service | Price |
| 7-Speed Touring Bike Rental | €109 |
| 8-Speed E-bike Rental | €241 |
| Bring Your Own Bicycle / E-bike | €65 |
| Passau Railway Station ↔ Engelhartszell Shuttle (return, no bicycle transport) | €55 per person |
| Secure Outdoor Parking (8 days) | €83 per car |
| Private Garage (8 days) | €105 per car |
| Bicycle Helmet (UVEX I-VO) | €50 |
| Smartphone Handlebar Mount | €11 |
| Power Bank (10,000 mAh) | €22 |
Tip: We are happy to arrange your parking space in Passau in advance, so you can board MS Prinzessin Katharina stress-free and start your Danube bike cruise in complete comfort. Please indicate during booking if you would like to use this parking service.
Practical information
- Travel type: individual bike and boat holiday with onboard guidance
- Duration: 8 days / 7 nights
- Distance: average 35–50 km per day (total approx. 196–210 km)
- Difficulty level: easy – mostly flat, ideal for leisure cyclists and e-bike riders
- Start and end point: Engelhartszell – approx. 30 km from Passau
- Departure: weekly on Saturdays, from April to October
- Maximum passengers: approx. 140 guests on board
- Minimum participants: 80 guests (confirmed no later than 21 days before departure)
- Languages on board: German and English
- Ship: MS Prinzessin Katharina – comfortable 4-star bike cruise ship with panoramic restaurant, lounge, bar and sun deck
- Cycling route: along the Danube Cycle Path between Engelhartszell and Vienna, with stops in Linz, Wachau Valley, Krems an der Donau, Melk, Grein and Mauthausen
- 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
- Own bicycle: 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 required (minimum validity of 6 months after return)
- Suitability: not suitable for persons with reduced mobility
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
Frequent asked questions about this Danube bike & barge holiday
The MS PRINZESSIN KATHARINA Vienna 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. This scenic itinerary explores the highlights of Austria, including the charming riverside village of Engelhartszell, the historic city of Linz, the UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley, Melk Abbey, Grein, and the elegant imperial capital of Vienna. Following the famous Danube Cycle Path, this easy Bike & Boat tour offers breathtaking river landscapes, picturesque vineyards, medieval towns and cultural landmarks, making it one of the most popular cycling cruises in Austria.
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 showcases the very best of Austria, taking you through some of the country’s most scenic and historic regions.
During the cruise you will visit charming destinations including Engelhartszell, Linz, Tulln, Vienna, Krems, Melk, Grein and the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Wachau Valley. Along the way, you’ll cycle through picturesque river landscapes, vineyard-covered hills, medieval towns and peaceful villages while following the famous Danube Cycle Path.
TThe cycling routes are considered easy and are suitable for most recreational cyclists. Following the famous Danube Cycle Path, the route is predominantly flat with well-maintained riverside cycling paths, making it ideal for beginners, couples and leisure cyclists.
Total cycling distance: approximately 194–208 km
Daily cycling stages: approximately 32–50 km
• Mostly paved and traffic-free cycle paths
• Predominantly flat terrain with only gentle gradients
• Suitable for standard touring bikes and E-bikes
• No previous Bike & Boat or cycling holiday experience is required
The combination of short daily distances, comfortable river cruising and excellent cycling infrastructure makes this one of the most accessible and enjoyable Danube Bike & Boat holidays in Austria.
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 32 and 50 km per day, spread over five cycling days, with one full free day in Vienna to explore the Austrian capital at your own pace. Enjoy world-famous landmarks such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace, the Ringstrasse, traditional Viennese coffee houses and the lively Naschmarkt before continuing your scenic Bike & Boat journey along the Danube.
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 Vienna Bike & Boat Cruise is the perfect way to experience the beauty of Austria’s Danube Valley while enjoying the comfort of a floating hotel. Cycle along one of Europe’s most famous cycling routes by day and relax on board each evening without the hassle of packing and unpacking.
This scenic journey combines the cultural highlights of Vienna, Linz, Melk Abbey, the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, and charming riverside towns with peaceful cycling through vineyards, historic villages and spectacular river landscapes.
Why travellers love this tour
- Easy, mostly flat cycling on the famous Danube Cycle Path
- Five self-guided cycling days with one relaxing day in Vienna
- Discover Austria’s most beautiful cultural and natural highlights
- Stay in the same comfortable cabin throughout the entire journey
- Full Board accommodation on board the MS PRINZESSIN KATHARINA
- Ideal for couples, solo travellers, groups of friends and first-time Bike & Boat guests
- Excellent combination of active holidays, sightseeing and relaxation
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely cycling holiday, a cultural river cruise or an unforgettable Danube adventure, this Bike & Boat tour offers one of the best ways to discover Austria at a relaxed pace.
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