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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
23 meals ( 9B, 4L, 10D )
3 expert-led lectures
18 expert-led field trips
An experienced Group Leader
10 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach; approximately .5 hours riding time. Walking over 1/2 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour.
Morning:
After our airport pickup, we will drive by motorcoach with your Group Leaders and a local expert to the historic town of Freising. Travel up to Cathedral Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding region and an introduction to the area’s history. Then descend into the city center, where you’ll have time for lunch on your own.
Lunch:
On your own in Freising
Afternoon:
In the afternoon, join a guided walk 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; approximately 2.0 hours riding time. Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 2 hours.
Breakfast:
In the hotel
Morning:
This morning, depart Freising and travel by motorcoach to Passau, a journey of approximately 2.5 hours. En route, make a brief stop to stretch your legs, take photos, and use restroom facilities. Upon arrival in Passau, continue to the base of the Oberhausmuseum and take a shuttle to the hilltop, where you’ll enjoy lunch with sweeping views over the city and the confluence of three rivers.
Lunch:
On your own at Oberhaus
Afternoon:
After lunch, visit the Oberhausmuseum, housed within a historic fortress overlooking the city, where exhibits trace the cultural and artistic history of the Passau region. Then, 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, check in to your hotel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant
Evening:
At leisure
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach .5 hours; Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour
Breakfast:
In the hotel.
Morning:
This morning, 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, set out on an expert-led field trip through Passau, exploring its historic streets and landmarks. 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:
Lunch is on your own
Afternoon:
After lunch on your own, enjoy some Free Time to explore Passau independently—perhaps strolling 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. 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:
Onboard the ship
Evening:
This evening, take a stroll with your Program Leader through the quaint village of Engelhartszell, enjoying its peaceful atmosphere and small-town charm along the Danube.
Activity Note
Biking distance is 24 miles on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour
Breakfast:
Onboard the ship
Morning:
Begin by being fitted for your bicycles and setting out on a short test ride to ensure comfort and familiarity. Then, experience the natural beauty of the Upper Danube Valley as you follow a former towpath through forested landscapes and open meadows, passing small villages along the way. En route, 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:
Picnic lunch at the cider mill.
Afternoon:
This afternoon, pause at a traditional "Mostheurige", a rustic cider tavern, to sample locally made apple cider paired with a picnic lunch. Enjoy this opportunity to experience a regional specialty and the relaxed atmosphere of the countryside. Then, continue your cycling journey along the Danube, following scenic riverside paths to Brandstatt, where you’ll rejoin the ship.
Dinner:
Onboard the ship
Evening:
After dinner, gather for a lecture exploring Austrian customs and traditions, offering insight into the cultural practices, daily life, and heritage of the region.
Activity Note
Biking distance is 14 miles on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour
Breakfast:
Onboard the ship
Morning:
This morning, set out by bicycle from Brandstatt, following the Danube along scenic riverside paths as you make your 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 onboard the ship.
Lunch:
Onboard the ship
Afternoon:
Join a local expert for a walking field trip through Linz, exploring its historic streets and cultural landmarks. During your exploration, ride the Pöstlingbergbahn funicular, one of the steepest funicular railways in Europe, for panoramic views over the city and the Danube.
Dinner:
Onboard the ship
Evening:
This evening, enjoy a relaxing time onboard, sharing conversation and camaraderie with your fellow participants.
Activity Note
Biking distance is 19 miles on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour, On/Off motorcoach 1 hr.
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship
Morning:
After sailing overnight, begin your day in Tulln. 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, mount your bicycles and ride toward Vienna, following scenic riverside paths to the port of Wien Nussdorf. En route, pass the impressive Klosterneuburg Monastery, a striking complex with centuries of history overlooking the river.
Lunch:
Onboard the ship
Afternoon:
This afternoon, park your bicycles and travel by bus to Klosterneuburg for a guided 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, continue to a local Heurige, where you’ll enjoy dinner accompanied by regional wines in a relaxed, traditional setting.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant
Evening:
This evening, 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 approximately 1 hr; Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour
Breakfast:
Onboard the ship
Morning:
Leave your bicycles onboard today, as you avoid the high-traffic areas of Vienna. Travel by private coach into the city, where you’ll meet a local expert for a walking field trip through Austria’s imperial capital. Explore key landmarks including St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) and the Hofburg, the former Imperial Palace, as you gain insight into Vienna’s rich history and enduring cultural legacy.
Lunch:
On your own in Vienna
Afternoon:
This afternoon is Free Independent Time to explore Vienna at your own pace. Refer to the program listing for suggestions on sites, museums, and neighborhoods you may wish to visit. Later, we will gather for dinner at a local restaurant known for its traditional Wiener Schnitzel.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant
Evening:
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 return to the ship via private motorcoach
Activity Note
Biking distance is 22 miles on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour, On/Off motorcoach 1 hr.
Breakfast:
Onboard the ship
Morning:
Begin your day with a bicycle ride in Krems, setting out through the scenic Wachau Valley. 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, take a local ferry across the Danube and continue cycling toward Melk, enjoying vineyard landscapes and riverside views along the way. Pause en route for lunch before completing your ride.
Lunch:
Lunch on your own
Afternoon:
Upon arrival in Melk, 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 reflects centuries of religious and cultural heritage.
Dinner:
Onboard the ship
Evening:
This evening, relax and enjoy the amenities of the ship, taking time to unwind and reflect on your journey.
Activity Note
Biking distance is 22 miles on flat-to-rolling terrain, primarily on dedicated paved bicycle paths. Walking or standing for approximately 1 hour, on/off motorcoach 1 hr.
Breakfast:
Onboard the ship
Morning:
This morning, enjoy a rare opportunity to experience the Danube from the river itself, taking in the ever-changing landscape as you sail toward Grein. Take time to relax, read, or share experiences with fellow participants as you enjoy the peaceful rhythm of life onboard.
Lunch:
Onboard the ship
Afternoon:
Set out on a scenic and varied cycling route beginning in the medieval town of Grein, home to Austria’s oldest municipal theater. Ride through the picturesque landscapes of the Strudengau region, passing quiet countryside and small villages. Along the way, enjoy opportunities to visit Clam Castle, where you 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, 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, have time on your own to explore the exhibits and reflect at this solemn place.
Dinner:
Aboard the ship
Evening:
This evening, relax onboard and enjoy time with your fellow participants, sharing reflections and memories from your journey as you prepare for disembarkation tomorrow.
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach 2.5 hours; Walking over 1 mile, standing for approximately 1 hour
Breakfast:
Aboard the ship
Morning:
We will disembark in Passau in the late morning. Then, board a motorcoach with your luggage and begin your return journey to Munich, concluding in Freising where your program began. En route, 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:
Arrive in Freising in the early afternoon, where you’ll have time to explore the town at your own pace—perhaps strolling through its historic streets, relaxing at a local café, or picking up any last-minute souvenirs. This evening, gather with your fellow participants for a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, enjoying one last opportunity to share experiences and celebrate your journey together.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant
Evening:
This evening, take time to pack and prepare for your morning departure to the airport.
Morning:
Your Group Leader 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.