Bike and Barge: Passau-Vienna-Bratislava-Budapest-Belgrade-Iron Gates-Passau (MV Lisabelle)

Shortly after embarkation between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m., it’s time to cast off. Take in a final view of the beautiful city of Passau as the ship glides gently into the sunset, passing lush green forests before reaching the lock at the Jochenstein power station on the border between Germany and Austria.

Your first day’s tour begins with a ride through the iconic landscape of the ‘Great Loop’ (Donauschlinge) – one of the most picturesque stretches of the Danube. Along the route, you’ll pass through charming villages and inviting cider taverns. At Engelhartszell, home to Austria’s only Trappist monastery, you can sample their exquisite liqueurs and cheeses. Don’t miss the famous ‘Schlögener Blick’ viewpoint, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Austrian countryside. The boat will be ready to welcome all cyclists back on board in the delightful market town of Aschach.

A narrow cycle path follows the former Iron Curtain from the castle ruins at Devín to the splendid Schloss Hof palace, home to one of Europe’s most magnificent Baroque gardens. After passing through a stretch of unspoilt countryside, you soon arrive in the vibrant city of Bratislava.

An optional miniature train tour of the Slovakian capital – where Hungarian kings were once crowned – begins with a stunning view from the hilltop fortress overlooking the city and concludes with a stroll through the beautifully restored historic centre.

The approach to Budapest is simply breathtaking, offering views of the city’s most iconic landmarks. On an optional city tour, you can explore this magnificent Danube metropolis or take a detour to the charming artists’ town of Szentendre (with the option to shorten the route by train). In the evening, enjoy time at your leisure discovering the Hungarian capital, or relax on the sun deck and take in the spectacular sight of the festively illuminated Parliament building.

From the tranquil Baroque town of Baja, renowned for its traditional fish soup, you’ll cycle along the flood protection dykes of the Gemenc floodplain, passing through peaceful river landscapes and fields of sunflowers. At the end of today’s stage, a short ferry ride takes you to the small town of Mohács – Hungary’s southernmost Danube town and historically significant as the site of two battles with the Turks.

Discover the vibrant Serbian capital, Belgrade, where the Sava meets the Danube, by bike or bus. Take an optional journey through time, exploring the city’s rich history and learning about the rise and fall of Yugoslavia.

In the evening, Belgrade is aglow in a sea of lights. Visit Zemun, the city’s oldest district, or explore the famous artists’ quarter of Skadarlija, where traditional taverns serve local specialities accompanied by lively folk music.

Experience a breathtaking fjord-like landscape in the heart of the Danube, where the river carves its way through the Romanian Carpathians and the dramatic foothills of the Balkan Mountains. From the deck, take in the striking scenery of steep gorges, dense forests, and fascinating historical landmarks.

Highlights include the impressive Decebalus Monument and a stop at Golubac Fortress, with the opportunity to visit. This awe-inspiring natural spectacle is sure to give you goosebumps!

The imposing Petrovaradin Fortress towers above the provincial capital of Vojvodina. After a leisurely cycle ride upstream along a flat riverside path, a short ferry crossing takes you to the gentle foothills of the Fruška Gora, a region dotted with orchards, vineyards, and idyllic farming villages.

Your journey continues to Ilok, Croatia’s easternmost town, renowned for its wine, even enjoyed by the British royal family. On an optional visit, you’ll explore a 400-year-old wine cellar, sample some of the region’s celebrated wine varieties, and discover the rich traditions of Croatian wine-making.

You are in the border triangle, cycling through the vast plains of the Bačka region – once home to the Danube Swabians. From Croatia, through Serbia and into Hungary, your route is lined with quaint, sleepy farming villages, golden fields of rapeseed, and endless stretches of farmland. Friendly farmers wave from their fields, and now and then a horse-drawn cart gently makes its way across the road.

An alternative route takes you through the untouched natural beauty of the Danube–Drava National Park. White storks nest in abundance on the rooftops of farmhouses – so much so that a dedicated museum has been established in their honour.

As you continue towards Mohács, Hungary, you’ll pass the National Memorial commemorating the great Battle of 1526.

Kalocsa, known as the “Paprika Capital” of Hungary, is a town full of charm and colour. Its character is shaped by brightly painted houses adorned with hand-painted floral motifs, and a magnificent cathedral whose twin towers rise above the flat Hungarian plain, visible from afar. A visit to the Paprika Museum offers fascinating insights into Hungary’s most beloved spice.

Your journey continues along a well-maintained cycle path atop the flood protection dyke, through the vast open landscapes of the Puszta. En route to Solt – birthplace of the renowned conductor Sir Georg Solti – the white sandbanks along the Danube offer tempting spots for a refreshing dip in the river.

In the afternoon, enjoy an optional horse show featuring breathtaking displays by the Csikós (Hungarian horsemen), followed by a tasting of local specialities.

As the Danube winds its way through the scenic, hilly landscape of the so-called “Hungarian Wachau”, it is framed by steep, forested slopes. Nestled in the middle of the river, the charming island of Szentendre exudes true Puszta romance.

Continuing along idyllic cycle paths through picturesque villages, you’ll have the chance to experience Hungary’s zest for life up close. In the distance, the grand dome of Esztergom’s basilica comes into view. This is Hungary’s largest church, featuring a Tuscan-style high altar and a remarkable side chapel lined with red marble – a visit well worth making.

After so many action-packed days of cycling, it’s time to unwind. Sit back and take in the breathtaking views as you cruise through the idyllic floodplain forests of the Donau-Auen National Park, with Vienna’s impressive skyline gradually appearing on the horizon.

Spend the day as you please – enjoy a gentle cycle along the Danube Island, Vienna’s beloved recreational haven, ride out to the nearby Klosterneuburg Abbey, or stroll through the peaceful vineyards of the Kahlenberg, where stunning views over the city and the Danube await.

Round off the day in true Viennese style with an optional concert of classical waltz and operetta music at Schönbrunn Palace.

Discover Vienna either from the saddle on a guided bike tour or at your own pace with the HOP ON HOP OFF bus (optional). Cycle leisurely through the historic city centre and experience the sights up close. The grand Ringstraße boulevard evokes the splendour of a bygone era, while traditional coffee houses entice you with delicious Viennese cakes and pastries.

Afterwards, there’s plenty of time to wander through charming side streets or explore the vibrant Naschmarkt. Bring your day in Vienna to a perfect close with a visit to a rustic wine tavern.

The final stage of your cycling tour is nothing short of magical. The gently rolling hills of the Wachau Valley, dotted with picturesque villages, historic castles and palaces, apricot orchards and terraced vineyards, form one of the most enchanting stretches of the entire route.

In Spitz, the cycle path is lined with inviting wine taverns – the perfect place for a well-deserved break (optional wine tasting available).

Your destination for the day is the magnificent Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s most stunning Baroque masterpieces.

Enjoy the first rays of sunlight and the early-morning tranquillity of the Danube Valley one last time. Take in a final view of the Danube Bend at Schlögen before arriving in Passau and its surroundings, your heart full of memories and impressions.

Disembarkation is scheduled for approximately 11:00 a.m. You will then make your arrangements for onward travel. We recommend not booking any onward connections departing before noon.

Embarkation: from 4 pm
Disembarkation: until 11 am. Do not book trains until after 12pm.

Minimum number of participants: 90 guests

Bringing your bike:
Available on request only due to limited space on the sun deck.
E-bikes are accepted exclusively if they have removable battery packs.
Please note, we exclude all liability for loss, theft, or damage — including damage caused during transportation between shore and ship or vice versa.

Excursions:
A small excursion programme is available and can be booked directly on board with the cruise director. A brief description will be provided with your travel documents. Depending on the number of participants, some excursions may be conducted in two languages (German/English).

Luggage recommendations:
We suggest packing rainwear, a bicycle helmet, a sunhat, and comfortable sneakers.

Schedule and programme changes:

Riverboats are limited in size (length, height, and width) due to bridge clearances and lock dimensions, and therefore cannot be compared to ocean-going vessels. The cabins offer less space than hotel rooms but are comfortably equipped.

A riverboat serves both as your “floating hotel” and as a working vessel that operates under engine power and must run continuously — including at night — often passing through locks and under bridges, which may involve the raising or lowering of parts of the superstructure. Some disturbances during these operations are, unfortunately, unavoidable.

While the cabins are compact, they are comfortably furnished. In cases of extremely high or low water levels, the shipping company reserves the right to cover certain stages by coach or, if necessary, to cancel the journey at short notice. Such situations are considered force majeure and do not give rise to legal claims. The same applies to sudden official orders for repairs to locks or bridges, or to mechanical failures (such as engine or propulsion issues) for which the operator is not at fault.

Please also note that during mooring, views from the cabins may be restricted by other vessels or harbour structures.

Notes:
Please be aware that a cruise ship is not only your hotel but also a working machine, operating with engines during the night. Activities such as crossing locks and bridges — including their preparation — may cause noise. If you are sensitive, we recommend bringing earplugs.

Digital travel documents and route maps:
In support of sustainability and climate protection, we encourage you to choose our digital route book instead of printed documents.

Travel documents:
EU citizens (excluding special cases such as dual citizenship, residence abroad, or passports with limited validity) must hold a valid passport or ID card, valid for at least six months beyond the end of the cruise. Non-EU citizens, EU nationals with multiple citizenship, or anyone subject to specific legal entry requirements should check visa and entry regulations with the relevant embassy.

Accessibility:
This trip is not suitable for guests with reduced mobility.

Insurance recommendations:
We strongly advise obtaining travel health insurance with repatriation coverage, as well as baggage, accident, and travel cancellation insurance.

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    • Step aboard the elegant premium vessel MS Lisabelle – a ship that perfectly blends comfort, indulgence, and relaxation. Sit back and soak up the cheerful atmosphere on board. Whether you’re enjoying the expansive sun deck or unwinding in the stylish panoramic lounge, your journey will be filled with discoveries and magical moments.

      The MS Lisabelle represents relaxed luxury as it cruises along one of Europe’s most beautiful waterways – the Danube. Let the friendly and attentive crew pamper you while you enjoy first-class service throughout your voyage.

      Wi-Fi is available on board for the entire trip (please note that connection quality may vary), allowing you to stay connected with friends and family.

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      Three Passenger Decks

      • Standard: Main deck, with non-opening windows

      • Comfort: Middle deck, with panoramic windows (non-opening)

      • Superior: Middle and upper decks, featuring French balconies

      • ECO: Located in the front/rear sections of the ship (operating noise possible)

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      Cabins
      The 76 outward-facing cabins range in size from 11–14 m² and feature elegant, comfortable interiors.

      • Standard and Comfort cabins: Two single beds

      • Superior cabins: Double bed (can be separated into two singles)

      All cabins are equipped with:

      • Shower/WC

      • Hairdryer

      • Satellite TV

      • Safe

      • Individually adjustable air conditioning

Arrival: Passau

Departure: Passau

Nearest arrival airport(s): Munich or Nuremberg

Nearest departure airport(s): Munich or Nuremberg

We also recommend travelling by train to all of our cycling holiday starting and departure points. We can help you plan your journey to Passau by rail. Car parking is available on all tours at the first hotel or a nearby public parking location. Full details are available on request.

Please do not book travel until an official invoice confirms the details of your cycling holiday.