Sporty cycle tour from Donaueschingen to Vienna

Your cycling tour begins in Donaueschingen, located at the edge of the Black Forest, and will lead you to Vienna over the coming days. According to local legend, the Brigach and Breg rivers are said to guide the Danube on its journey. However, it was the Romans who identified the source of the Danube in what is now the park of Fürstenberg Castle. This stunning castle, built in the Belle Époque style, stands as a remarkable testament to the historical significance of the von Fürstenberg family.

This stage of your sporty cycle tour form Donaueschingen to Vienna takes you through the picturesque Baar landscape. In Immendingen, you’ll witness a remarkable natural phenomenon known as the Danube Seepage. For much of the year, the river vanishes into the limestone, only to reemerge later. Instead of continuing its journey toward the Black Sea, part of the Danube flows into Lake Constance and the Rhine through the Aachtopf. The valley then narrows as you approach Tuttlingen, and you will reach your destination for the day in Fridingen.

On today's exhilarating section of the cycling tour from Donaueschingen to Vienna, you will follow the Danube through the awe-inspiring valley it has sculpted over millennia. Towering limestone cliffs, some rising more than 100 meters, are dotted with castles and ruins, offering stunning views along the way. You will cycle through Sigmaringen, home to the majestic Hohenzollern Castle, and continue on to Obermarchtal, part of the Upper Swabian Baroque Route.

You begin today's ride cycling alongside the Danube towards Ehingen, before continuing through the scenic valley of the ancient Danube. In Blaubeuren, near the historic monastery, you’ll encounter the captivating Blautopf, a karst spring that feeds the River Blau, a tributary of the Danube. Your destination, Ulm, is now within reach. The towering spire of Ulm Minster rises prominently in the distance. Though the climb up the 768 steps is challenging, the effort is well worth it, offering a breathtaking panoramic view on clear days.

You will cycle along the Danube Cycle Path to Donauwörth, a charming town located at the confluence of the Wörnitz River and the Danube. Once a key stop on the historic trade route between Nuremberg and Augsburg, Donauwörth boasts magnificent townhouses that reflect its former prosperity. While in town, be sure to visit the beautifully adorned Heilig Kreuz Monastery and the Käthe-Kruse Doll Museum, which celebrates the legacy of the renowned doll maker and her iconic creations.

Today's cycling tour from Donaueschingen to Vienna offers a brisk ride, taking you quickly to the foothills of the Franconian Alb. Here, the rolling hills add variety to your route, providing a pleasant challenge. The historic town of Neuburg is a must-see, with highlights including the impressive Hofkirche church and the charming municipal theater. Your destination for the day, Ingolstadt, is internationally renowned as the home of the Audi car brand. Yet, it also surprises visitors with its well-preserved old town, steeped in medieval charm.

Today's tour takes you predominantly through the serene Danube floodplains, following the river's course. At Bad Gögging, you’ll encounter excavated Roman forts, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient past. Further along, a natural marvel awaits: the Danube Gorge, where the river carves its way through the dramatic rocks of the Franconian Jura mountains. From the renowned Weltenburg Monastery, home to the world’s oldest monastery brewery, a boat ride will take you to Kelheim. A few kilometers further, you’ll reach Regensburg, whose UNESCO-listed old town is a stunning testament to its medieval heritage.

On today’s stage of the active cycling tour from Donaueschingen to Vienna, a great spot for a first break is the Walhalla near Donaustauf. This impressive memorial, built in the 19th century by King Ludwig I, offers stunning views and historical significance. Your journey then continues along the Danube, which now flows gently through the expansive plain. Passing through Straubing, you’ll cycle through the picturesque Gäuboden landscape to Deggendorf, the gateway to the Bavarian Forest. At the end of the day, take a leisurely stroll through Deggendorf's charming old town—it's definitely worth the visit!

After the previous stages, today’s ride will feel like a natural continuation of your journey. Passing through Vilshofen, you will soon reach Passau, the Three Rivers City. Located at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz, and Danube rivers, Passau boasts a rich history, with the Romans once establishing forts at the site of the current old town as part of the Danube Limes. As evening falls, take a leisurely stroll through the city and soak in its almost Mediterranean atmosphere, a perfect way to end your day.

After several days of cycling, you’ve earned a well-deserved day of relaxation in Passau. The city’s old town, shaped by Italian masters, is a visual delight. Explore Passau from the water on a Three Rivers City tour (optional), or visit the majestic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Don’t miss the Veste Oberhaus, perched above the left bank of the Danube, or the baroque pilgrimage church of Mariahilf. At the confluence of the three rivers, you can witness a fascinating natural spectacle: the green waters of the Inn from the Alps, the dark black waters of the Ilz from the moorlands, and the blue-brown flow of the Danube, each river clearly distinguishable as they merge.

Today, you’ll cycle along the north bank of the Danube towards Obernzell. A few kilometers later, you’ll cross into Austria and reach Engelhartszell, renowned for its Trappist monastery. As you continue, you’ll encounter the Schlögener Schlinge, where the Danube makes a dramatic 180-degree bend around a massive granite rock. Here, a ferry will take you across to the opposite bank of the river. From there, you’ll cycle on to your overnight stay in either Aschach or Brandstatt.

Today, you cycle through the Eferding Basin, passing through charming small market towns on your way to Linz, the capital of Upper Austria. Once in Linz, take some time to explore the historic old town, visit one of its fascinating museums, and indulge in a slice of the famous Linzer Torte before continuing your ride. From Linz, you’ll head towards the Strudengau and Nibelungengau regions. The Strudengau was once feared by sailors due to its perilous whirlpools, while Nibelungengau holds a legendary place in the Song of the Nibelung. Your day ends with an overnight stay in either Ardagger or Grein.

Today's active cycling tour from Donaueschingen to Vienna takes you through the stunning Wachau cultural landscape, renowned for its vineyards, orchards, and picturesque castles and monasteries. This region is one of Austria's most scenic. Along the way, take a well-deserved break at Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery and one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in Austria. Another must-see is the legendary Aggstein Castle ruin, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the Middle Ages. Your journey concludes in the charming town of Krems, your destination for the day.

Leaving the picturesque Wachau behind, you cycle towards the historic Roman town of Tulln. Take a break and explore the charming town center before continuing towards your final destination—Vienna, just a short ride away. Once in the Danube metropolis, immerse yourself in its rich history by visiting iconic landmarks such as the Vienna Hofburg, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and enjoy a ride on the famous Giant Ferris Wheel in the Prater. To cap off your journey, indulge in a slice of Sacher cake and a traditional Viennese Melange—an essential treat to celebrate the completion of your tour.

Your cycle tour from Donaueschingen to Vienna concludes after breakfast. Should you wish to extend your experience, we would be delighted to arrange an extra night in either Vienna or Passau for you.