The Danube Cycle Path is one of Europe’s classic cycling trails that takes you on a tour of the fairytale scenery, local traditions and rich history that Central Europe is famous for.
Follow the blue Danube River on its 2,850km (1,800 miles) journey from the base of the Black Forest Mountains of Germany to its mouth on the Black Sea. The mighty Danube River passes through 10 European countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine.
For cyclists, the most popular section of the Danube Cycle Path is from Passau in Germany to Budapest in Hungary. This route also takes in Slovakia and Austria, meaning you can experience four countries on a two week cycling tour.
A Danube Cycling Tour showcases spectacular countryside in the heart of Europe. Explore the fertile plains of the Wachau Wine Valley, with its many vineyards and orchards; discover storybook villages nestled within magical forests; and pedal through the Danube Floodplain National Park that is teeming with wildlife.
One of the best parts of the Danube Cycle Path is seeing all the charming towns and less visited tourist sites along the way. Follow the bike path to see the impressive Esztergom Basilica in Hungary and the magnificent Melk Abbey in Austria. Don’t miss admiring the stunning Danube Bend, which is a U-shaped loop thought by many to be the most beautiful part of the Danube River.
Become immersed in the local culture along the Danube River Cycle Path. Marvel at the medieval Bratislava Castle in Slovakia, visit Budapest’s old Jewish Quarter and hear of romantic legends in the Danube Valley. Dine on regional cuisine like traditional German sausages, the iconic pralines of Passau and of course the wiener schnitzel in Austria.
UTracks offers several affordable cycling trips along the Danube Cycle Path. There are cycling tours specifically tailored for families, who will enjoy time at a donkey farm and the old Ferris Wheel in Vienna. For first time cyclists, the Danube Cycle Path is ideal as the route is generally flat and free of traffic. On all tours electric bikes are available, making pedalling accessible to all cyclists. UTracks also has a range of comfortable accommodation options to suit any budget and they have great value inclusions such as information packs and authentic meals. UTracks’ self guided cycling trips are an excellent way to experience the many attractions along the Danube Cycle Path at your own pace.
There are also bike and boat tours which have the fantastic advantage of only having to unpack once. Ride your bike along the Danube River by day, and then board the barge for a delightful cruise at night. A bike and barge holiday along the Danube Cycle Path is truly the best of both worlds.
If you want to experience the ultimate active holiday in Europe, make sure you put a cycling tour of the Danube Cycle Path on your list.