Danube River - from Passau to Budapest

Easy to Medium 35 to 65km/21.7 to 40.4mi per day of cycling. No technical difficulty. 98% of the route is on cycle paths. The busiest sections are usually short. There is the possibility, every day, to shorten the stage, by taking either the train or a boat, to make it an easy route.

Together with your travel packet, we will give you detailed information for this. The route is usually very well signposted, with a few exceptions in Slovakia. This is a relatively easy bike ride, with only a few slightly inclined sections.

You only carry a small bag with the picnic and your belongings for the day. You will find your luggage at the hotel in the evening: your luggage is transported by the hotel or by taxi and is limited to one piece of luggage per person. 15kg/33lbs maximum. We advise you to take a change of clothes in your bags, because it is sometimes possible in rare and unforeseen cases for example: traffic jams, that your luggage is delivered late. Luggage can arrive until 6pm.

Possibility to register from 2 people; The registration of a single person is possible but incurs an extra charge for a single room.

This is a self-guided trip. There is no human guide. A digital travel packet will be given to you by email before your departure. You will also have access to a guiding app that will accompany you during your stay. On request and at an extra cost, you can receive a paper travel packet including maps and the printed guidebook. Depending on the case, you will receive your file before departure, or you will find it at the first accommodation. At the beginning of your stay, you will have a personalized welcome (at your hotel or a nearby hotel) with one of our local pen pals (in English only). They will provide you with information about the tour and can help you adjust your rental bikes.

14 days / 13 nights / 12 days of cycling

Departure at your convenience from the end of March to the beginning of October.

Accommodation

In a 3* and 4* hotel or equivalent. In a double occupancy bedroom with bathroom / WC; single room only possible with supplement.

Hotel Classification

More and more hotels refuse to be classified, even properties that were still classified a year or two ago. However, these establishments are not losing quality, far from it. If we indicate, for example, a comfort level of "3* or equivalent": this means that the establishment is not necessarily classified, but has a comfort corresponding to that of a 3* hotel.

Rooms

Our German and Austrian neighbours generally do not know about "double beds" (a single large mattress) and rarely about rooms with 2 twin beds. Generally, there is a single bed base and two 90cm mattresses; Everyone has their own individual duvet. Bedrooms of 3: this is usually an added bed; however, the rooms are usually large.

Meals

Breakfast is included at accommodations. Dinners and lunches are not included. You can take half board as an option (3-course meal, in the hotel restaurant or outside). Careful! Our German or Austrian neighbors often dine early. Remember to respect the hours of service.

Start

Day 1 in the afternoon in Passau, Germany

End

Day 14 in Budapest, or Passau (Day 14 or 15) if you book the return transfer with us (details below).

Return (on request)

Return by train over 1 day (to be booked by you)

Train from Budapest to Passau, available every day of the week; about 5.5 hours.

Return by bus or train over 2 days with 1 extra night in Vienna

1. Return Budapest - Vienna By bus: possible every day. Departure at 3:30pm from Budapest (we pick you up from your hotel). Duration: 3.5 hours. We transport your personal bikes if needed. Reservation needed at the time of registration. Either you leave Vienna by train or spend an overnight to catch our bus or train transfer the next day. By train: there are regular direct trains between Budapest and Vienna (personal bikes not included, to be booked by you).

2. Return Vienna - Passau By bus: possible every day. Departure between 2pm and 3pm (quote on request if you wish to postpone the time of the transfer). We pick you up from your hotel. Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours. We transport your personal bikes if needed. Reservation needed at the time of registration. By train: there are regular direct trains between Vienna and Passau for about €45, 2.5 hour journey (to be booked at the time of registration, personal bikes not included).

By Plane

You can: Arrive in Munich and depart from Budapest Take a plane to Munich and depart from Budapest Munich Airport (178km from Passau). The S1 and S8 S-Bahn trains connect the airport with the main train station, Marienplatz or Ostbahnhof. For more information, visit: www.s-bahn-muenchen.de; www.mvv-muenchen.de; www.bahn.de. And the airport website: https://www.munich-airport.com/

Low-cost or regular flights to Budapest or Munich, but also from Paris, Geneva, Brussels and provincial cities.

Vienna Airport The airport is located about 20km southeast of the city of Vienna, and 63km from Bratislava. - Train to the airport every 10 minutes. The journey from the airport to the main train station takes about 20 minutes. - City Airport Train, a direct line, operated by a private operator, connects the airport with Wien Mitte, offering a fast journey (about 18 minutes, every 30 minutes), and allows you to check in for flights at Wien Mitte station. - Bus Services Vienna Airport Lines are direct bus lines that connect various train stations, including Westbahnhof and Südbahnhof, directly to Vienna Airport. Travel time varies between 20 minutes and 40 minutes. - In addition to these means of public transport, access is also possible via the A4 motorway (Ostautobahn) and, of course, by taxi (20 to 30 minutes for a journey from the city centre).

Budapest Airport The airport is located about 20km from the city centre. There are no trains, but buses, to connect them. Bus 100E runs between Budapest airport and the city centre (journey time about 30 minutes, departure every 10 minutes).

You can buy your tickets at the BKK (Budapest Public Transport) ticket office or at the vending machine located on the pavement between terminals 2A and 2B.

Regular or low-cost flights depending on the city of departure, to Vienna or Budapest: Lufthansa (www.lufthansa.com); Easyjet (www.easyjet.com); Wizz Air (www.wizzair.com); Eurowings (www.eurowings.com)...

Train

To Passau Passau is easily reached from all major EU cities and train lines. Times vary depending on departure city.

Budapest has many train departures for major EU cities and train lines. Times vary depending on departure city.

Car

Park your car - Passau We suggest the Parkhaus Bahnhofstrasse (Regensburger Strasse 1; near the train station): about 6€ per day, no pre-booking possible, to be paid on site.

Please note: the above access information is provided for informational purposes only and is subject to availability; please check all details before departure.

Bike rental

These are quality German bikes, from the manufacturer KTM or equivalent that will ensure you a bike ride without any breakdowns. Although this is what we prefer, please indicate at registration if you want classic brakes, on the handlebars, without back braking.

Hybrid bike: 21-speed unisex bike (without coaster, frame height 56/51/46/43 cm) or 7-speed (with coaster, frame height 56/51/46 cm) with hub change, wide saddle.

Hybrid Bike

Men's model: 21 speeds (without backpedal, frame height 64/60/56 cm)

Hybrid Bike - Men's Model

Hybrid bike ''PLUS'': High quality (e.g. hydraulic brakes Magura HS 11, Shimano Deore XT), the "plus" is visible, the PLUS bike allows a sportier and optimal seating position, 27 speeds, front fork suspension. High-quality components.

Hybrid bike ''PLUS''

Gravel Bike:

Quality bike, from the manufacturer MAXX, lightweight aluminum frame and tires that offer optimal grip and comfort on a multitude of surfaces.

12 speeds, hydraulic disc brakes, Schwalbe G-One Gravel tires (suitable for riding on asphalt, unpaved roads or off-road), 11.5kg, bottle cage.

Gravel Bike

E-Bike: KTM, 23kg, 28 inches, 8 speeds, 25km/h up to 180km/110mi

E-Bike

Provided with bike rentals:

• A saddle bag
• A map holder
• One Repair Kit per room
• One pump
• A distance counter
• One lock per room (large enough for 2 bikes)

Please note that if you cannot bring your own helmet, you have two options:

• You can request the loan of a helmet at the time of booking (extra charge of €25) or
• Buy a new UVEX helmet on site (reservation required, €55 to be paid on site).

We cannot guarantee the availability of helmets on site, it is important to make your request at the time of registration.

Swimming

A number of our trips lend themselves to swimming, during the stage or at the end of the day. It would be a shame not to take advantage of it. However, we would like to point out that you are the only judges of the advisability of a swim; These swims are therefore under your responsibility and at your own risk.

Responsible tourism

Travelife Partner

Since 2025, Grand Angle has been recognized as a Travelife Partner, an international label that certifies our responsible practices regarding the environment, ethics, and sustainable management, both within our company, with our partners, and in the organization of our trips.

This label, the second level of a rigorous international certification, attests to our concrete actions in favor of responsible tourism. We are actively working toward the next level, Travelife Certified, in line with our sustainable development policy.

It is the client's responsibility to arrive prepared with the items listed below to help ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

The following items are required for this trip unless otherwise noted. When packing, think layered clothing systems that work together and can be easily added or removed.

• Cycling Shoes – sport shoes that are comfortable for cycling in.
• Socks – one pair for every day or two days of the trip. Sport specific padded socks, no cotton please!
• Sun Hat – wide brimmed hat or baseball cap/bandana combo
• Cycling Gloves – padded gloves used specifically for cycling.
• Cycling Shirts – non-cotton, breathable short sleeve and/or long sleeve shirts (Note: long sleeve shirts provide better sun protection)
• Cycling Pants & Shorts – nylon pants AND shorts, zip-offs or leggings
• Windbreaker Layer – a light jacket or pullover
• Warm Top – mid-weight sweater or pullover of wicking material such as merino wool, fleece or polypropylene
• Insulating Jacket – down-fill or synthetic-fill insulated "puffy" jacket or warm, lightweight fleece jacket (may not be needed in summer months)
• Rain Gear – waterproof jacket and pants or high-quality poncho, breathable fabric such as Gore-Tex® or coated nylon. For the pants look for side zippers that will easily allow pulling them over footwear.
• Casual Clothing & Footwear – comfortable clothes and shoes to wear in the evening after activities.

Important Note: Please, no cotton hiking/cycling clothes. Synthetic clothing is very efficient in drying quickly. Merino wool material clothing is also efficient in drying quickly, is comfortable to wear and has the advantage of not developing a bad odor after use.

• Saddlebag – If choosing to use a rental bike on this trip, a saddlebag is included with rental
• Personal Luggage – small duffel bag, suitcase or backpack – for extra items and casual clothes
• Cycling Helmet – (Mandatory for this trip) comfortable fitting, with rain cover. If choosing to use a rental bike on this trip, a helmet is NOT included with the rental unless requested at time of registration.
• Hydration System – 2+ liters capacity, either water bottles or bladder/hose system (if planning to wear a backpack during cycling) and an additional water bottle
• Headlamp – preferably with an L.E.D. bulb that works with AA or AAA batteries (Note: always test headlamp before trips and travel/pack without batteries in device)
• Picnic/Lunch Kit – knife, plate or bowl, box with closeable lid, utensils, etc.
• Phone & Charger – local sim card or international plan may be needed. Consider bringing a small power bank to use to recharge devices during trip activities.
• Map or Phone Holder – for handlebars, included with bike rentals
• Waterproof Travel Case or Pouch – used to keep important documents (i.e. passport, health/travel insurance, etc.) & phone safe from weather/water
• Sunglasses, Sunscreen, & Lip Balm
• First Aid Kit – see first aid kit suggestions below*
• Personal Toilet Paper Kit – most public restrooms outside of lodging will have toilet paper available, but it is good to be prepared with a personal toilet paper kit to potentially use during portions of this tour. Along the trail, there may be the need to use natural settings for toilets (i.e. digging catholes, etc.) when there are no public toilets available. Kits should include toilet paper, wet wipes, sanitizer & sealable plastic bag(s) for carrying out used paper/wipes.
• Toiletries
• Contact Lenses & Glasses – if wearing contact lenses, please also bring back-up pair of glasses and contacts.
• Prescription Medication – with emergency back-up supply
• Money – It is good to have some local currency, often smaller local businesses do not accept credit cards and/or prefer cash. Some public restrooms require small amounts of cash to use.

• Backpack – a small sized comfortable pack with a waterproof cover. Taking a backpack is useful as it makes it easy to carry your belongings when you go on a short walking trip along the way. If your bike has a rack system this bag can be easily attached or even packed within a saddlebag.
• 2-3 Face Masks; 1-2 Over-the-counter Rapid Antigen COVID-19 Tests (recommended but optional)
• Travel Power Adapter – Electric power voltage in Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary is 230 V / 50 Hz and the plugs are E type (F type in Hungary)
• Support Braces – consider bringing any joint braces that may be currently needed or from past injuries (i.e. knee, ankle, elbow, etc.)
• Sleep Mask & Ear Plugs
• Bug Repellent
• Quick Drying Towel or Bandana(s)
• Swimsuit

After years of experience planning adventure travel around the world, we've learned that anything can happen, and every traveler should carry a basic personal first aid kit. We want to ensure our guests are well-prepared and make smart informed travel decisions. In many of the places we operate trips, it may be challenging to find certain medications and/or first aid supplies, and sometimes common items you desire may not be available in the destination you are travelling. That's why it's good to be prepared and carry a small supply of first aid supplies, any prescription medication, and/or over-the-counter medications you may require during your travels.

We recommend discussing your travel plans, vaccination requirements, and any medication usage with your primary healthcare provider before embarking on our trips. This helps ensure you have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

Here is a basic list of what we think makes a good personal travel first aid kit:

• Medications – Brands of your choice, all medications should be either prescribed directly by your doctor or discussed with a doctor prior to use.
• Electrolyte Replacement/Drink Mix – brand of choice
• Creams – Antibiotic ointment, Anti-Itch: Hydrocortisone, Arnica
• Eye Problems: Dry/Itchy – Eye drops
• Feminine Hygiene – Tampons
• Wound Care – a various pack of bandages, antiseptic swabs
• Blister Care – blister kit made up of items of your choice
• Sun Protection – sunscreen, SPF lip balm
• Various Items – Athletic tape/"KT Tape", Nail clippers, Tweezers, Small bottle of hand sanitizer, Sewing kit (clothing/button repairs), Disposable surgical gloves (1-2 pairs)

PACKING FOR TRAVEL: It is recommended that you prepare your items in the following manner for your travels to this trip.

"Carry-on Bag(s)" - This is the bag you will bring with you on the plane. We recommend all your pertinent information be in this bag (passport, travel documents, etc.) as well as your most important gear items (footwear, jacket, prescription medication, etc.) in case any checked luggage items become lost or delayed.

"Checked Bag(s)" - This bag will be checked and contain the rest of your personal items (clothing and gear, etc.).

Important Note: Again, it is recommended to either wear or pack in your "Carry-on Bag" the main gear items you need for this trip vs. putting them in your checked "Travel Bag" (in case luggage is delayed). Lost or delayed luggage has become more and more common in major airports for international travel since the global pandemic.

LUGGAGE MANAGEMENT DURING TRIP: During this trip, the packing system needs to be in 2 bags.

Extra Luggage - "Checked Bag(s)" & "Carry-on Bag(s)": This bag will contain all the items you want to bring along on the trip. It will be transferred by vehicle to your lodging, and you will have access to it at the end of each day of activity at hotels, but not throughout the day. Extra luggage is not allowed on this trip beyond the 1 bag requirement. However, maximum weight per bag is 15kg/33lbs.

Saddlebags/bike bag (not provided unless adding bike rental): All guests with a bike rental will get a saddle bag to use during their trip, which they will be responsible for carrying during trip activities. If not choosing a bike rental we advise having at least 1 saddle bag. Items in this bag should include anything you may need throughout the day during the trip. (i.e. rain gear, warm layers, water, sunscreen/lip balm, snacks/food, camera/phone, etc.)

To Transport Your Belongings: If you don't have a saddlebag & rack on your bike, bring a 30-40L backpack with a waist strap to carry what you need for the day (i.e. rain gear, warm layers, water, sunscreen/lip balm, snacks/food, camera/phone, etc.) as you cycle. If you have a rack on your bike, you can attach your bag with the help of bungee ropes or paracord. Rented bikes are equipped with a saddlebag where you can store your belongings. You should still bring a small backpack with you, so that you can easily take your belongings with you when you are visiting attractions along the route.

Countries: Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary (All EU member states)

Capitals: Berlin, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest

Documents

Travelers from the European Union, including children, need a valid identity card or passport. Check with the authorities in your home country for the conditions of entering this destination.

Health

Do not forget your card and/or policy details for your health insurance and/or travel insurance.

Germany: +49 Austria: +43 Slovakia: +421 Hungary: +36

Eastern European Time. Eastern European Time (EET) is 2 hours ahead of Greenwich Mean Time (GMT+2). In the summer: Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)

European Emergency Services: 112

Tourism Office in Germany Visit https://www.germany.travel/en/home.html

Tourism Office in Austria Visit https://www.austria.info/en-gb/

Tourism Office in Hungary Visit Visit Hungary

Bratislava Tourist Board Visit Visit Bratislava

Euro = € (Germany, Austria and Slovakia) Hungarian Forint – HUF (Hungary), often it is possible to use Euros in Hungary unofficially, but you get better rates with HUF.