Panorama de la ville de Budapest en Hongrie

Danube River - from Passau to Budapest

Europe - Germany - Austria - Cycle Routes in France and Europe - Danube River by Bike
DEULV0018

The highlights of this journey
Grand Angle

  1. Must-see cultural sites
  2. Well-developed cycle paths
  3. Breathtaking cities

Yours
experts

David Praire

David Praire

+33 (0)4 86 80 19 17

Director and Nordic ski instructor

Kristiina Gaillard

Kristiina Gaillard

+33 (0)4 86 80 19 15

Alps and Scandinavia travel expert

Useful
information

Length

14 days

From

€1,690.00

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The beauty of the banks of the Danube will amaze you along this legendary route. The Danube is the second longest river in Europe and flows through one of Austria's richest wine-growing regions: the romantic Wachau region. It continues its course through villages and countryside, past castles and emblematic cities. You will discover three European capitals, each more beautiful than the next: Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest.

To the delight of cyclists, a very beautiful "Danube Trail" has been set up and is part of the Eurovélo 6 route, "the route of the rivers".

Dates, prices, and booking

Trip details

Trip Price 2025

Departure day at your convenience from March 29 to October 5, 2025.

Price per person in a double occupancy room B&B, in 3*/4* hotels: 

Departure Period - 2025

2 to 3 People

4 to 5 People

6+ People

 From 31/03 to 11/04

1710 €

1700 €

1690 €

From 12/04 to 23/05

1920 €

1910 €

1900 €

From 24/05 to 05/09

2070 €

2060 €

2050 €

From 06/09 to 26/09

1920 €

1910 €

1900 €

From 27/09 to 05/10

1710 €

1700 €

1690 €

 

Included in Trip Price

  • Accommodation in a double occupancy room (13 nights)
  • Breakfast (13)
  • Luggage transportation from Passau to Budapest
  • 1 travel packet per room
  • Train ticket from Mosonmagyaróvár to Györ (including bicycles)
  • Boat from Esztergom to Visegrád or from Szentendre to Budapest on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays from May to mid-September (bikes included). Or train when the boat is not sailing. 
  • Access to a GPS guidance application on a smartphone
  • Telephone support service from 8am to 8pm daily

Not Included in Trip Price

  • Travel to Passau or from Budapest
  • Parking in Passau 
  • Return from Budapest to Passau by bus or train (depending on the description)
  • Drinks, lunches and dinners
  • Bike rental
  • Site visits 
  • Optional cancellation insurance and assistance
  • Registration fees
  • Tourist taxes (approx. €1.50 to €3 per day per person. To be paid on site)
  • Anything that is not mentioned in "Included in Trip Price" section above

Options, Extras and Discounts

  • Single room supplement: +610 €
  • Half board (partly with a value voucher in nearby restaurants): +510 €
  • Hybrid bike rental: 250 €
  • Hybrid bike rental ‘’PLUS’’: 365 €
  • Gravel bike rental: 470 € (rental Insurance included)
  • E-bike rental: 560 €
  • Bike helmet rental (to be booked when registering): 25 €
  • New helmet (to be requested at registration, to be paid on site): 49 €
  • Damage coverage package - Hybrid bike: 15 € / per bike (details here: Trip Insurance | Grand Angle
  • Damage coverage package - Hybrid “PLUS” bike: 23 € / per bike (details here: Trip Insurance | Grand Angle
  • Damage coverage package - E-Bike: 35 € / per bike (details here: Trip Insurance | Grand Angle)
  • Return from Budapest to Vienna by bus: 95 € (+45 € with your personal bike)
  • Return from Vienna to Passau by bus: 95 € (+45 € with your personal bike) 
  • Return from Vienna to Passau by train: 50 € (supplement for the transport of bicycles to be paid on site)
  • Child discount in the room of 2 paying adults (applicable on the price of the stay and additional nights – no discount for options such as bike rental or half board)
    • 0 to 5 years: -100 %
    • 6 to 11 years: -50%
    • 12 to 14 years: -25%
    • 15 to 17 years: 10%
    • 18+ years: no discount

Extra Night(s):

Price per person with breakfast, in a double/twin room (in a single room):

  • Passau : 90 € (130€) / per night
  • Vienne : 100 € (170 €) / per night
  • Bratislava: 75 € (120 €) / per night
  • Budapest: 100 € (180 €) / per night

Itinerary

Itinéraire Le Danube de Passau à Budapest
D1

Passau (Germany)

Arrival in Passau and reception of the bikes. Take the time to arrive in the afternoon, to visit the "city of 3 rivers", at the confluence of the Inn, the Ilz and the Danube. It is a beautiful city in Bavaria on the Austrian border. You can park in a public car park.  

 

Overnight in a hotel in Passau

Passau © Pixabay

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Passau

D2

Passau – Schlögen an der Donau or surroundings (Austria)

Another short visit to Passau, then drive to Schlögen an der Donau and its famous meander, where the valley narrows, via Obernzell and the monastery of Engelhartszell (the only Trappist monastery in Austria). In Schlögen, while a ferry takes you to the other side of the river to your hotel, you have time to contemplate the Danube loop that makes a 180° turn.

 

About 40km/24.9mi by bike.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Schlögen or surroundings  

Schlögener loop © Oberösterreich Tourismus

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Schlögen or surroundings

Length

40km/24.9mi by bike

D3

Schlögen – Linz (Austria)

Starting at the famous Schlögen bend, the towpaths lead through the wild Engtal valley to Aschach, Ottensheim and Wilhering, famous for its Rococo-style Cistercian monastery. Typical towns with old houses; on either side, on the banks, fortified castles and monasteries. You reach the city of Linz, the beautiful capital of Upper Austria and European Capital of Culture in 2009.

 

About 55km/34.2mi by bike. 

 

Possible shortcut: by train from Eferding to Linz (about 40 minutes by train); Schlögen – Eferding: about 30km/18.6mi by bike.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Linz

Linz © Office National du Tourisme d'Autriche

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Linz

Length

55km/34.2mi by bike

D4

Linz – Grein or surroundings (Austria)

Today you will make a detour to the Abbey of St. Florian as well as to the oldest town in Austria, Enns, where you can visit the city center or the archaeological collection of the Lauriacum City Museum. Then departure for Grein, along Pleschinger lake and via Mauthausen. The Danube valley becomes wider, the fields cultivated numerous. Then the valley narrows to Grein, at the entrance to Strudengau, where the valley is very narrow and has many meanders. Grein is a picturesque seafaring town, dominated by its castle. 

 

About 65km/40.4mi by bike. 

 

Possible shortcut: by train from Linz to Mauthausen (about 25 minutes by train); there are only 39km/24.2mi of cycling left to Grein.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Grein or surroundings 

Cycling in Grein © Peter Burgstaller

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Grein or surroundings

Length

65km/40.4mi by bike

D5

Grein or surroundings – Wachau (Austria)

You cross the Strudengau, via the "Schwarzen Wand" (431m/1414ft), Persenbeug and its castle, the baroque basilica of Maria Taferl, and the old Roman town of Ybs, to Melk, the Wachau gate, with its landscapes covered with vineyards and orchards. Admire Melk and its majestic baroque abbey, perched on a rock overlooking the banks of the river. It is only a short distance to reach your stopover destination in the heart of beautiful Wachau.

 

About 65km/40.4 by bike.

 

Possible shortcut: by boat from Melk to Spitz (about 50 minutes journey; 16km9.9mi) or from Spitz to Krems (about 1 hour journey, 20km/12.4mi).

 

Overnight in a hotel in the Wachau (Spitz or surroundings)

Melk Abbey © Oesterreich Werbung Herzberger

 

Accommodation

Hotel in the Wachau (Spitz or surroundings)

Length

65km/40.4 by bike

D6

Wachau – Traismauer or Tulln (Austria)

A magnificent route through the Wachau: vineyards, orchards, typical villages, banks dotted with castles. Spitz, the most famous wine-growing village in the Wachau Region: at harvest time, taste the grape juice that is just starting to ferment! Leave Spitz for Dürnstein and its castle, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. It is a superb village, take the time to visit it. Continue along Krems to Traismauer or Tulln. Be sure to take part in a wine tasting from the Wachau region (not included). 

 

About 40km/24.9mi (if overnight in Traismauer) to 60km/37.3mi (overnight in Tulln) by bike. 

 

Overnight in a hotel in Traismauer or Tulln

Cycling in Dürnstein © Oesterreich Werbung Martin Steinthaler

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Traismauer or Tulln

Length

40km/24.9mi (if overnight in Traismauer) to 60km/37.3mi (overnight in Tulln) by bike

D7

Traismauer or Tulln – Vienna (Austria)

You leave the vineyards to find the vast fields and flowery village of Tulln, by the south bank, then reach Greifenstein, on the outskirts of Vienna, through the Viennese forest to make your arrival into Vienna. Stroll through the streets of the Austrian capital, visit St. Stephen's Cathedral and enjoy a slice of the famous Sachertorte cake with a Viennese Americano coffee. If you are staying in Traismauer, the bike ride to Vienna can be long. We advise you to take a train with your bikes in Höflein (-20km/12.4mi), at your own expense, ticket to be taken on site. 

 

About 40km/24.9mi (if overnight in Tulln) to 65km/40.4mi (overnight in Traismauer) by bike.

 

Possible shortcut: by train from Höflein to Vienna or from Tulln to Vienna or from Krems to Tulln.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Vienna 

View of Krems from the vineyards © Donau Niederoesterreich Robert Herbst

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Vienna

Length

40km/24.9mi (if overnight in Tulln) to 65km/40.4mi (overnight in Traismauer) by bike

D8

Vienna – Bad Deutsch, Altenbourg or Hainbourg (Austria)

On the left bank of the Danube, you quickly leave the big city of Vienna to return to the greenery of the Donau-Auen National Park. You will pass Orth Castle and the village of Eckertsau. You arrive in Hainburg. 

 

About 50km/31mi (flat) by bike.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Bad Deutsch, Altenburg or Haiburg

St Etienne Cathedrale © Oriane Tempé

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Bad Deutsch, Altenburg or Haiburg

Length

50km/31mi by bike

D9

Bad Deutsch, Altenbourg or Hainbourg – Bratislava (Slovakia)

You start with an excursion on the Roman Trail to Carnuntum. The archaeological park is considered one of the most important excavation sites in Austria and is worth a visit. Back in Hainburg, you immediately cross the border into Slovakia, whose capital Bratislava is your next stop. The slightly shortened distance gives you plenty of time to visit this charming city.

 

About 35km/21.7mi by bike.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Bratislava

Bratislava © David Praire

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Bratislava

Length

35km/21.7mi by bike

D10

Bratislava - Mosonmagyaróvár – Györ (Hungary)

After visiting Bratislava, a beautiful track along the Nibelungen naturally leads you to the Hungarian border (Kunovö). Pass through Rajka and ride through the Szigetköz Nature Reserve. You pass through Dunasziget and Halaszi and then you arrive at the small town of Mosonmagyaróvár, also called the city of 17 bridges. You then take the train to Györ where you can plan plenty of time for a walking tour. The county capital has many sights and a breathtaking baroque old town.

 

About 40km/24.9mi by bike + train.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Györ

Cycling in Hungary © David Praire

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Györ

Length

40km/24.9mi by bike + train

D11

Györ – Komárom (Hungary)

You cycle close to the Danube, passing the Monostor fortress, which is worth a detour, and the double city of Komárom and Komárno. 

 

About 40km/24.9mi by bike.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Komárom

Györ © David Praire

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Komárom

Length

40km/24.9mi by bike

D12

Komárom – Esztergom or Visegrád (Hungary)

Pass the Roman castle of Kelemantia; Your trail passes through many rural villages along the river, where time seems to have stopped. Beautiful paths lead you to Moča and then Štúrovo where you spend the night or continue over the famous Gisela Bridge into Esztergom proper, famous for its bridge and fortress as well as for its cathedral (visit of the cathedral possible). The city is also called "the Hungarian Rome". Its basilica is the largest in the country. Allow time to visit it. You will spend the last distance of today's stage on a Danube boat (from Esztergom to Visegrad), from where you can relax and admire the surrounding landscape. The "Danube Bend" is considered one of the most scenic sections of your bike tour.

 

About 55km/34.2mi by bike + boat or train.

 

Overnight in a hotel in Esztergom or Visegrád

 

*Please Note: The overnight stay is either in Esztergom or Visegrád, depending on the availability of the accommodation at the time of registration. If you are sleeping in Esztergom, the boat trip takes place the next day from Szentendre to Budapest. The daily distances remain the same in both cases. With the confirmation of the booking, you will receive detailed information about where you will spend the night. In addition, the current schedule for the 2025 cruise has not yet been set. According to the forecast, the boat will sail every Friday, Saturday and Sunday during the period from the beginning of May to mid-September. Outside of this period or on other days of the week, you will receive a replacement train ticket.

Esztergom © David Praire

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Esztergom or Visegrád

Length

55km/34.2mi by bike + boat or train

D13

Esztergom or Visegrád – Budapest (Hungary)

You pass through the area of the famous "Danube bend" (Donauknies), also known as the "Hungarian Switzerland". The Royal Palace and Visegrád Castle will amaze you, while the open-air museum and the baroque city center of Szentendre invites you to stroll around and enjoy the atmosphere. You will spend the last few kilometers aboard a boat on the Danube, from where you can admire the surrounding landscape in peace (20km/12.4mi from Budapest, 2 ferries to be paid on site). You soon reach the Hungarian capital.

 

About 65km/40.4mi by bike + boat or train. 

 

Overnight in a hotel in Budapest

Budapest © David Praire

 

Accommodation

Hotel in Budapest

Length

65km/40.4mi by bike + boat or train

D14

Budapest (Hungary)

End of stay after breakfast and hotel check-out. Return travel organized by you or using one of our ‘’return packages’’. Possibility to extend your stay, extra nights – availability on request.  

Bastion des pêcheurs Budapest
Fishermen's Bastion Budapest 

 

Itinerary Modification
Occasionally, adjustments to the planned itinerary may be necessary. This could stem from trip logistics (such as fully booked accommodations, trail closures, or adverse weather conditions, etc.). It's important to understand that these modifications are always implemented with your best interests in mind, prioritizing your safety and comfort.

Technical description

Level

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.

Luggage transportation

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.

Group

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

Travel folder

This is a self-guided trip. There is no human guide. A digital travel packet will be given to you, including your orientation details, list of accommodations and any vouchers. Depending on the case, you will receive your travel packet before departure, or you will find it at the first accommodation. Your "Printed" travel packet (topo-guide, maps, boat or train tickets, etc.) is waiting for you at your 1st hotel. A welcome meeting with our local representative will be arranged upon arrival. 

Duration

14 days / 13 nights / 12 days of cycling

Departure period

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

Comfort

► 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 / End

► 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). 

Access

► 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 (about €5).  
- 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. The price is around €15.
- 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 for a price of about €10 (€15 round trip).
- In addition to these means of public transport, access is also possible via the A4 motorway (Ostautobahn) and, of course, by taxi (count from €35 to €40, and 20 to 30 minutes for a journey from the city centre). 

Budapest Airport 
The airport is located about 20 km 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, about €6). 

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. 

Vélo standard de location
Hybrid Bike

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

Vélo homme de location
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. 

Vélo PLUS Eurobike
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), 11.5 kg, bottle cage.
 

vélo Gravel
Gravel Bike

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

VAE de location
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, €49 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.

Bathing

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.

Photos

You take beautiful pictures! Don't hesitate to send us a CD, a USB stick, a Dropbox or WeTransfer link of your best photos taken during your trip. The fact that you send us photos implies that you accept that your photos will be used free of charge on our various media outlets (social media, catalog, website, trip information documents, etc.).

Travel story

Would you like to share your best moments of the trip and share your experience with the greater Grand Angle hiking community? Send us your story and some photos illustrating your words that we can consider publishing on our Grand Angle Blog

Responsible tourism

► Acting for Responsible Tourism - ATR label
Grand Angle is an active member of the ATR association "Agir pour un Tourisme Responsable", whose compliance with the label has been certified by Ecocert Environnement.

The common values of the label, shared by all its members, are represented by: transparency (between the customer and the travel agency), partnership (between local service providers and the travel agency) and consistency (synonymous with good communication within the travel agency team).

Being a member of ATR commits us to:
•    Promoting quality tourism
•    Respect for the environment, heritage and local people
•    Educating travelers about local customs
•    Inform travellers in full transparency about their travel conditions

For more information on the ATR association: www.tourisme-responsable.org

► The European Charter for Sustainable Tourism in Protected Areas 
In 2014, Grand Angle was one of the first tour operators to be certified under the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism, created and developed by Europarc, the Federation of European Protected Areas, which includes Regional Natural Parks, National Parks and Nature Reserves.

The purpose of the European Charter is to develop quality, sustainable and responsible tourism in protected areas, with respect for people and their environment. Being certified under the CETD is a recognition of our commitment to sustainable tourism and development rooted in the territories, economically, socially and environmentally.

The certification is proof of the confidence that the Parks have in our company and its approach.
Grand Angle's partner in this certification is the Vercors Regional Natural Park, our homeland: http://parc-du-vercors.fr   

Find out more about the European Charter for Sustainable Tourism: http://www.europarc.org/sustainable-tourism/

Clothing

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

CLOTHING CHECKLIST:

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.

Gear

GEAR CHECKLIST:
  • 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.
OPTIONAL ITEMS:
  • 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
*FIRST AID KIT SUGGESTIONS:

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)

Luggage

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.  

Country

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

Capitals: Berlin, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest 

Formalities

► 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. 

Phone

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

Time difference

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)

Useful addresses

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 

Tourism Office in Hungary
Visit www.hungarytourism.hu 

Tourism Office in Slovakia
Visit www.slovakia.com/tourism   

Currencies

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.

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