River Danube through the Iron Gates

Your adventure begins in the charming town of Passau, where you will embark between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. As the boat casts off, take in your last views of this Bavarian gem, known as the “City of Three Rivers.” Watch as the scenery gently transforms, with dense forests and riverside villages rolling by as you glide into the sunset.

The journey takes you through the Jochenstein lock, marking the border between Germany and Austria. This first evening is the perfect introduction to life aboard: relax on deck, meet your fellow travellers, and enjoy your first dinner while the Danube sets a tranquil tone for the days ahead.

Today begins your first cycling adventure through one of the most picturesque stretches of the Danube – the Great Loop, also known as the Donauschlinge. The river bends dramatically here, creating a landscape of rolling hills, lush forests, and peaceful riverside villages.

Start from Engelhartszell, home to Austria’s only Trappist monastery, where you can sample handmade liqueurs and cheeses. Continue along winding paths that lead through quiet hamlets and traditional cider taverns. Don’t miss the “Schlögener View,” an iconic vantage point that offers sweeping panoramas of the Austrian countryside.

Your ride concludes in Aschach, a charming market town where the boat awaits your return. Enjoy a leisurely evening onboard as you sail onward, reflecting on a day of classic Austrian beauty.

This morning’s cycle follows a scenic route along the former Iron Curtain, starting near the ruins of Devin Castle. The castle’s hilltop location offers breathtaking views over the meeting point of the Danube and Morava rivers.

As you follow the trail, you’ll pass through serene countryside before arriving at Schloss Hof, one of Central Europe’s most impressive Baroque palaces. Its manicured gardens and ornate architecture are a must-see for lovers of history and design.

A short while later, you’ll reach Bratislava, Slovakia’s lively capital. An optional miniature train tour will take you up to the fortress for panoramic views, followed by a gentle stroll through the restored Old Town. Explore narrow cobbled streets, grand squares, and charming cafés before returning to the boat for dinner along the illuminated riverfront.

Wake up to a magnificent view as you sail into Budapest, one of Europe’s most striking capitals. The Parliament Building and Buda Castle rise majestically along the river, creating a picture-perfect scene.

Choose to join an optional guided city tour to discover the history behind this grand city, or spend the day exploring on your own. For those who prefer to ride, cycle to the artistic town of Szentendre, known for its galleries, cobblestone lanes, and colourful façades. The route can be shortened by taking the train back.

As evening falls, return to the ship and enjoy dinner on deck with the glowing city skyline as your backdrop. The sight of the Parliament illuminated at night is one you won’t forget.

Today’s route begins in the peaceful Baroque town of Baja, famous for its traditional fish soup. Cycle along quiet flood dykes that protect the Gemenc floodplain, a region teeming with wildlife and natural beauty.

The trail meanders through fertile farmland and fields of sunflowers, offering an authentic glimpse of rural Hungary. Stop to take photos or simply breathe in the tranquillity of the Danube’s southern reaches.

Your journey ends in Mohacs, a town steeped in history as the site of two major battles with the Ottoman Empire. Cross the river by ferry before returning to the ship for a well-earned rest and perhaps a taste of local wine.

Arrive in Belgrade, the vibrant Serbian capital where East meets West. The city sits at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers and has a rich past shaped by Roman, Ottoman, and Austro-Hungarian influences.

You can explore at your own pace or join an optional guided tour to learn about the fascinating history of Yugoslavia. Visit the Belgrade Fortress for panoramic views, or wander the bohemian quarter of Skadarlija, where cobbled streets and lively taverns offer a warm welcome.

In the evening, Belgrade comes alive with light and music. Whether you prefer a quiet stroll along the waterfront or a lively dinner accompanied by traditional folk tunes, you’ll find the perfect way to end your day.

Today is all about nature’s grandeur. Cruise through the Iron Gates, a dramatic gorge where the Danube carves its way between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.

From the deck, take in towering cliffs, forested hills, and the striking Decebalus Monument, carved into the rock face. The contrast of deep blue waters against rugged stone is unforgettable. You’ll also stop at Golubac Fortress, a medieval castle that has stood guard over this section of the river for centuries.

This section of the journey offers some of the most stunning scenery in Europe, and it’s a day to simply relax and marvel at the natural beauty surrounding you.

Start your day in Novi Sad, Serbia’s cultural capital, overlooked by the impressive Petrovaradin Fortress. After exploring, cycle upstream along a flat and easy path through the fertile plains of Vojvodina.

Take a short ferry ride to reach the gentle hills of Fruška Gora, an area dotted with monasteries, orchards, and vineyards. The route leads you into Ilok, Croatia’s easternmost town, known for its award-winning wines.

You’ll have the opportunity to visit a 400-year-old wine cellar and sample local vintages that are said to be favoured by the British royal family. Learn about Croatia’s winemaking heritage before relaxing with a glass of something special as the sun sets.

Today’s cycling takes you through the border triangle where Croatia, Serbia, and Hungary meet. The route offers endless open landscapes, traditional villages, and the charm of rural life in the Batschka region.

Pedal past fields of sunflowers and bright yellow rapeseed, with cheerful locals waving from their farms. White storks are a common sight here, nesting on the rooftops of houses and barns.

You’ll pass the Dunav-Drava-Nemzeti National Park, home to unspoiled wetlands, and the National Memorial commemorating the Battle of Mohacs in 1526. It’s a day of gentle riding through peaceful countryside and rich history.

Begin your day in Kalocsa, known as the “Paprika Capital” of Hungary. Visit the Paprika Museum to learn about the spice that defines Hungarian cuisine, and admire the town’s brightly painted houses and twin-towered cathedral.

From here, cycle along well-paved paths that follow the flood protection dykes of the Puszta plain. The route is easy and scenic, with opportunities to swim at white sandbanks along the river.

Later, experience a thrilling horse show featuring the Csikós riders, Hungary’s traditional horsemen, followed by a tasting of local delicacies. The day ends in Solt, birthplace of renowned conductor Sir Georg Solti.

This section, often called the “Hungarian Wachau,” is one of the most beautiful parts of the Danube. The river winds through wooded hills and peaceful villages, creating postcard-perfect views at every turn.

Cycle across Szentendre Island, where rural charm meets natural beauty. Locals tend to vineyards and orchards that add colour to the landscape. Continue on to Esztergom, where Hungary’s largest basilica dominates the skyline.

Inside, marvel at the Tuscan-style altar and the red marble chapel, both symbols of Hungary’s rich religious heritage. The sense of history and serenity makes this a truly special stop.

After days of riding, relax as the boat sails through the tranquil Donauauen National Park. From the deck, you’ll see Vienna’s impressive skyline come into view.

You can choose to cycle around the Danube Island, a favourite local recreation spot, or visit Klosterneuburg Abbey, home to centuries of history and fine art. Those seeking a view can ride up to Kahlenberg Hill, where the vineyards and panoramic city views make a perfect photo stop.

In the evening, consider attending a classical concert at Schönbrunn Palace to end your day on a truly Viennese note.

Spend the day discovering Vienna at your own pace or join a guided bike or bus tour. Cycle along the elegant Ringstrasse and admire landmarks such as the State Opera House and Hofburg Palace.

Stop for coffee and cake at one of the city’s many traditional cafés before exploring the Naschmarkt, Vienna’s bustling open-air market.

Later, unwind in a cosy wine tavern in the Grinzing district, where you can toast the day with a glass of local white wine while enjoying live music.

Your final cycling stage takes you through the magical Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This region is famed for its terraced vineyards, apricot orchards, and medieval castles.

Ride through charming villages like Dürnstein and Spitz, where narrow lanes and wine taverns invite you to stop and sample the local produce. The route is gently rolling and filled with stunning river views.

End your ride at the magnificent Melk Abbey, a Baroque masterpiece perched high above the town. A guided tour (optional) reveals its ornate architecture and fascinating history.