In recent years, more and more people are deciding to live a slow vacation, immersing themselves in nature and rediscovering the balance between mind and body. Among the dreams of a two-wheel traveler, the Danube Cycle Path stands out, which manages to conquer everyone thanks to its breathtaking landscapes and the minimum physical effort required; its secret lies in alternating enchanting landscapes, art cities like Passau, Linz and Vienna with the possibility of stopping and eating along the river.

Danube Cycle Path: what to know before departure

In German the Danube Cycle Path is called Donauradweg and this is the name you will find when reading the signs during the journey. The entire cycle path is also well marked with signs, specifying the distances and possible routes, so there is absolutely no risk of getting lost. Another important thing to keep in mind concerns the route, mainly flat, which alternates sections on cycle paths with less frequented sections. But, going into detail, here is how this extraordinary bike path of over 1200 km is structured:

• Donaueschingen (Germany) - Passau (Germany): about 600 km

• Passau (Germany) - Vienna (Austria): about 330 km

• Vienna (Austria) - Budapest (Hungary): about 325 km

Many people feel the desire to undertake this travel experience, so it is important to understand which routes to travel and what are the main places of attraction. In the part from Passau to Vienna, the path is quite easy, almost always flat and with very few (and light) climbs: for this there are many families with children who are intrigued by this beautiful route to discover some of the most beautiful cities in Europe.

From Passau to Vienna: perfect to start

In each of our itineraries, we always want to allow the traveler tolive a unique experience, enjoying the beauty of nature, but also the wonders of some of the most fascinating cities in Europe. If you want to discover theDanube Cycle Path, you can start by choosing thetour that starts from Passau and arrives in Vienna. Why do we recommend it? Because it is the easiest section, and therefore within everyone's reach and Passau is the city of three rivers, so called because it is located at the confluence of the Danube with the Inn and the Ilz, as well as being a reference point for those who set out to discover the Danube cycle path, it is also a very interesting place from an artistic and historical point of view.

The second stage isLinz, capital and jewel of Upper Austria, itscuisinewould enchantfoodies from all over the worldand the historical center is rich in monuments, churches and palaces. The journey continues, always on your bike, through authentic beauty spots, where nature reigns supreme: cycling along this section of the cycle path offers unforgettable serenity. To end the trip in style, the great queen of history and culture cannot be missing:Viennawill welcome you in all its extraordinary majesty. Not only nature, but museums, literary cafes, fashion stores and districts where creativity reigns: if you want to live all this in a single trip, our itinerary along the Danube is perfect for you!

At the source of the Danube: cycling in legend

If you dream instead of an adventure based on discovery, we recommend the stretch from the city of Donaueschingen, in the heart of the Black Forest, where in the 16th century, after much discussion, the legendary source of the Danube were officially locate. Contrary to what one might imagine, the precise point where the longest river in Europe is born, is not among rugged mountains, but is regally located in the park of thecastle of the Princes of Fűrstenberg, which further contributes to the charm of the place.

The initial stretch of the Danube Cycle Path is less known, therefore less frequented even in the high summer season, but no less charming. Starting from here you will reach, always in a week, the town of Donauwoerth, in Bavaria, cycling along picturesque routes among castles, ancient abbeys and beautiful monasteries, as well as crossing another magnificent cycling tourist itinerary: the Romantic Road.

The Danube by Bike and Boat: an unusual perspective

Looking for an exclusive trip? Cycle and sail to some of the most beautiful European capitals: Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest following the course of the river. By choosing the bike and boat version of the Danube Cycle Path you can enjoy an unusual and exclusive point of view by alternating bike trails with navigation sections, completely immersing yourself in nature and in the crossed landscapes.

The comfort will not abandon you for the entire duration of the trip: in the morning you can decide whether to start your bike route or if you want to remain on board and enjoy some relaxation. If you choose to cycle, you will always find your boat waiting for you at the end of the stage; your floating hotel will follow you all along the route, which means that the only time you will have to pack again will be at the end of the trip. The dinners will be on board in the company of the other guests and the crew and the nights will offer you romantic moments under immense starry skies with the lapping of the Danube as a background.

If you haven't felt the urge to start immediately, on Cyclando.com you will find over 20 cycling routes on the Danube Cycle Path: all that remains is to choose yours and start cycling!