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Cyclists wearing helmets push their bikes along a paved path in Schlogen during a biking trip along the Danube River.
Germany/Austria

Bike & Barge the Upper Danube: Castles, Vineyards & Vienna

Program No. 25711RJ
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Itinerary
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All itineraries and excursions are subject to change. Weather and water conditions may affect the progress of the ship, and we may miss ports if it is not safe to dock. The operators reserve the right to change the content and duration of excursions without prior notice and so the cruise itinerary should always be regarded as provisional. Whenever possible, Road Scholar’s published daily schedule will indicate port arrival and departure times. Prior to departure, if there is a major change, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
12 days
11 nights
What's Included
24 meals ( 10B, 4L, 10D )
3 expert-led lectures
17 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 27 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time. Walking over 1/2 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour.
Morning:
After our airport pickup, we will drive by motorcoach with our Group Leaders and a local expert to the historic town of Freising. We’ll travel up to Cathedral Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding region and an introduction to the area’s history. Then we’ll descend into the city center, where we’ll have time for lunch on our own.
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leaders will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
We will go on a walking field trip with a local expert through Freising’s charming streets, exploring its historic sites and gaining insight into local life and culture. Before dinner, the Group Leaders will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Whether biking in beautiful countryside or vibrant cities, Road Scholars will learn to understand and deal with local traffic, account for other bikers along the way, and be prepared for the unexpected such as sudden stops. Group Leaders will provide a summary of each day’s activities. Educational content will be presented during lectures and field trips by the Group Leaders, educators, local experts, and museum docents. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leaders will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. Freising lies at the heart of Bavaria’s rich brewing tradition, where beer culture remains an integral part of local life, reflected in time-honored brewing methods and the lively social atmosphere of its beer gardens. This evening we will have a chance to taste the results of that rich culture.
Dinner:
At a local brewery.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 98 miles, approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 2 hours.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Checking out of the hotel, we’ll depart Freising and travel by motorcoach to Passau, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. En route, we’ll make a brief stop to stretch our legs, take photos, and use restroom facilities. Upon arrival in Passau, we’ll continue to the base of the Oberhausmuseum and take a shuttle to the hilltop, where we’ll enjoy lunch with sweeping views over the city and the confluence of three rivers.
Lunch:
On your own at Oberhaus.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we’ll visit the Oberhausmuseum, housed within a historic fortress overlooking the city, where exhibits trace the cultural and artistic history of the Passau region. Then, we’ll walk down from the hilltop—or take the shuttle—into the center of Passau. Known as the “City of Three Rivers,” Passau sits at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers and is distinguished by its elegant Baroque architecture. Afterwards, we’ll check in at our hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 3 miles, approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
At the hotel, we’ll gather for a lecture exploring the architectural styles found along the Danube, offering insight into the region’s historic buildings, cultural influences, and evolving design traditions. Afterwards, we will set out on an expert-led field trip through Passau, exploring its historic streets and landmarks. We’ll visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of the world’s largest cathedral organs, and continue to the Old Town, where narrow lanes and colorful Baroque buildings reflect the city’s rich past.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Perhaps stroll through the Old Town, visiting local shops, exploring one of the city’s many small museums, or relaxing at a café while watching the bustling port, where river cruise ships line the banks of the Danube. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration. Later, regroup with your luggage and transfer to the ship for a 4:00 p.m. embarkation. The ship’s staff will introduce themselves before dinner and share safety information.
Dinner:
Aboard the ship.
Evening:
We’ll take a stroll with the Group Leaders through the quaint village of Engelhartszell, enjoying its peaceful atmosphere and small-town charm along the Danube.
Activity Note
Getting on/off bicycles; riding 22 miles, approximately 3 hours on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
We’ll begin by being fitted for our bicycles and setting out on a short test ride to ensure comfort and familiarity. Then, we’ll experience the natural beauty of the Upper Danube Valley as we follow a former towpath through forested landscapes and open meadows, passing small villages along the way. En route, we will observe local traditions at rustic inns and take in the region’s tranquil atmosphere. Continue to the Schlögener Blick observation point for sweeping views of the Schlögener Loop, where the Danube winds dramatically through a narrow gorge and curves back on itself.
Lunch:
We will pause at a traditional Mostheurige, a rustic cider tavern, to sample locally made apple cider paired with a boxed lunch. Enjoy this opportunity to experience a regional specialty and the relaxed atmosphere of the countryside.
Afternoon:
We’ll continue our cycling journey along the Danube, following scenic riverside paths to Brandstatt, where we’ll rejoin the ship.
Dinner:
Aboard the ship.
Evening:
After dinner, we’ll gather for a lecture exploring Austrian customs and traditions, offering insight into the cultural practices, daily life, and heritage of the region.
Activity Note
Getting on/off bicycles; riding 17 miles, approximately 2 hours on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour. Getting on/off a funicular; elevation gain 771 feet, 20-minute ride each way.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
We will set out by bicycle from Brandstatt, following the Danube along scenic riverside paths as we make our way to Linz, passing rolling countryside, riverside villages, and stretches of peaceful woodland along the way. Linz is a vibrant city that blends historic charm with contemporary culture, known for its Baroque Old Town, lively public squares, and modern arts scene along the riverfront. Upon arrival, return your bicycle and park it aboard the ship.
Lunch:
Aboard the ship.
Afternoon:
We will join a local expert for a walking field trip through Linz, exploring its medieval Old Town with varied architecture from Baroque buildings to the famous Renaissance Landhaus (statehouse) and cultural landmarks. During our exploration, we’ll ride the Pöstlingbergbahn funicular, one of the steepest adhesion railways in Europe, for panoramic views over the city and the Danube.
Dinner:
Aboard the ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Enjoy a relaxing time onboard, sharing conversation and camaraderie with your fellow participants. We will sail overnight to Tulln.
Activity Note
Getting on/off bicycles; riding 22 miles, approximately 2.5 hours on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour. Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 9 miles, approximately 1 hour riding time.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
After sailing overnight, we begin our day in Tulln. We will set out on a walking field trip to the Gardens of Tulln, a unique ecological park showcasing a variety of themed gardens, innovative landscape designs, and sustainable horticultural practices along the Danube. Then, we’ll mount our bicycles and ride toward Vienna, following scenic riverside paths to the port of Wien Nussdorf. En route, we’ll pass the impressive Klosterneuburg Monastery, a striking complex with centuries of history overlooking the river.
Lunch:
Aboard the ship.
Afternoon:
We will park your bicycles and travel by bus to Klosterneuburg for an expert-led visit of its renowned abbey, a historic Augustinian monastery founded in the 12th century and known for its impressive Baroque architecture, ornate interiors, and centuries-old winemaking tradition. Afterwards, we’ll continue to a local Heurige, where we’ll enjoy dinner accompanied by regional wines in a relaxed, traditional setting.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
We’ll gather onboard for a lecture exploring the economics of the European Union, gaining insight into its structure, policies, and the economic relationships that shape the region today.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 3 miles, approximately 1/2 hour riding time. Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour. Extent and duration of walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
We’ll leave our bicycles onboard today as we avoid the high-traffic areas of Vienna. We’ll travel by motorcoach into the city, where after a sightseeing ride down the Ringstrasse and the UNO City, we’ll meet a local expert for a walking field trip through Austria’s imperial capital. We will explore key landmarks including St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) and the Hofburg, the former Imperial Palace, as we gain insight into Vienna’s rich history and enduring cultural legacy.
Lunch:
On your own in Vienna.
Afternoon:
Free time in Vienna.
Dinner:
We will gather for dinner at a local restaurant known for its traditional Wiener Schnitzel.
Evening:
We’ll attend a concert at the Mozarthaus, enjoying an evening of classical music in a historic setting closely associated with the life and work of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. We’ll then return to the ship via private motorcoach. The ship departs at 11:00 p.m. and sails overnight to Krems.
Activity Note
Getting on/off bicycles; riding 26 miles, approximately 3 hours on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
We will begin our day with a bicycle ride in Krems, setting out through the scenic Wachau Valley. We’ll stop in Dürnstein for a walk through this historic town, known for its connection to King Richard the Lionheart, who was once held captive in the castle above. Then, we’ll take a local ferry across the Danube and continue cycling toward Melk, enjoying vineyard landscapes and riverside views along the way. We’ll pause en route for lunch before completing our ride.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
Upon arrival in Melk, we will take part in an expert-led visit of the renowned Melk Abbey, a magnificent Benedictine monastery perched above the Danube, celebrated for its grand Baroque architecture, richly decorated interiors, and historic library that reflect centuries of religious and cultural heritage.
Dinner:
Aboard the ship.
Evening:
At leisure. Relax and enjoy the amenities of the ship, taking time to unwind and reflect on your journey.
Activity Note
Getting on/off bicycles; riding 22 miles, approximately 2.5 hours on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour. Getting on/off a motorcoach.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
We’ll enjoy a rare opportunity to experience the Danube from the river itself, taking in the ever-changing landscape as we sail toward Grein. Take time to relax, read, or share experiences with fellow participants as you enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life onboard.
Lunch:
Aboard the ship.
Afternoon:
We will set out on a scenic and varied cycling route beginning in the medieval town of Grein, home to Austria’s oldest municipal theater. We’ll ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Strudengau region, passing quiet countryside and small villages. Along the way, we’ll enjoy opportunities to visit Clam Castle, where we may gain insight into its history and heritage, and continue to the Celtic village of Mitterkirchen, where exhibits offer a glimpse into prehistoric life in the region. Due to the steep ascent, we’ll travel by private motorcoach with a local expert to the Mauthausen Memorial, gaining deeper insight into the region’s World War II history during the journey to and from the site. Upon arrival, we’ll have time to independently explore the exhibits and reflect at this solemn place.
Dinner:
Aboard the ship. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for disembarkation and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; driving 98 miles, approximately 2.5 hours riding time. Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship.
Morning:
We will disembark in Passau in the late morning. Then, we’ll board a motorcoach with our luggage and begin our return journey to Munich, concluding in Freising where our program began. En route, we will stop for lunch in the Black Forest—a region known for its dense evergreen forests, picturesque villages, and enduring folklore traditions—before continuing on.
Lunch:
On your own.
Afternoon:
We will arrive in Freising in the early afternoon, with time to explore the town at our own pace—perhaps strolling through its historic streets, relaxing at a local café, or picking up any last-minute souvenirs.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for disembarkation and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon. See your program’s “Getting There” information regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
The Group Leaders will arrange airport transportation for participants with Road Scholar airfare. Independent travelers, or those extending their stay in Munich, will receive assistance in arranging transportation to the airport by taxi or train. This concludes our program. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to like our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!