Cycle tour from Prague to Passau

Your cycle tour begins in the heart of Prague, the enchanting Golden City on the Vltava River, and leads you to Passau. Few cities in Europe offer such a rich tapestry of historical landmarks that speak to the continent's vibrant past. Start by exploring the majestic Prague Castle, the cultural and political heart of the city. Stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, teeming with life and offering stunning views of the river and city. Be sure to lose yourself in the timeless beauty of Prague's Old Town, with its narrow streets, historic squares, and magnificent architecture, all of which combine to create an unforgettable atmosphere.

On the first stage of your cycle tour from Prague to Passau, you will follow the Vltava Cycle Route, which takes you through rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. Again and again, you will come across small, idyllic Bohemian villages with houses with wooden gables lining the route. Treat yourself to a break in one of the many cosy pubs. Your overnight stay takes you to Příbram, a town that was once an important mining centre. In the open-air mining museum, you can learn all about the mining of silver, lead and uranium and take a look into the deep tunnels. If you want to go high up, visit the Svatá Hora monastery, which towers above the town.

Today, you will cycle through the deep green Bohemian forest on the Vltava Cycle Route. At Milešov, you will have a view of the Vltava Reservoir, and soon you will reach Orlík. Even from a distance, the castle there, perched on a rocky outcrop, catches the eye – it is well worth a visit. Just a few kilometres further on, Zvíkov Castle awaits you, picturesquely situated on a headland at the confluence of the Vltava and Otava rivers. In the Middle Ages, it was one of the most important and best-fortified castles in Bohemia. Your destination for today is the small town of Písek. Here you should visit the Gothic stone bridge – it is considered the oldest of its kind in Czechia.

Today, you’ll immerse yourself in the beautiful blend of primeval and cultural landscapes along the Otava River. As you cycle, you’ll pass through Týn nad Vltavou, one of the oldest towns in South Bohemia, rich in history and charm. A scenic forest path will lead you to Hluboká Castle, which majestically rises above the Vltava River. Take your time to wander through the magnificent park surrounding the castle and explore the splendid building itself. Originally a royal castle, Hluboká was reconstructed in the neo-Gothic style, inspired by none other than Windsor Castle. Continuing along the Vltava, you’ll arrive in České Budějovice (Budweis), the heart of South Bohemia. Known worldwide for its iconic beer, the city also boasts an extensive market square, flanked by picturesque buildings from the Gothic and Renaissance periods. Take a leisurely stroll through the square to appreciate the historical architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Take full advantage of the shorter stage today to explore more of České Budějovice. After soaking in the charm of the city, hop back on your bike and continue along the Vltava Cycle Route. As you ride, you'll pass through quiet, picturesque farming villages, each offering a glimpse into the peaceful rural life of South Bohemia. Your next destination is one of the true gems of the Czech Republic – Český Krumlov. Known as the "Pearl of Šumava," this enchanting town is a place where history seems to come alive at every corner. Take a leisurely stroll through the Old Town, where the streets are lined with beautifully preserved Renaissance and Baroque buildings, each telling its own story. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the vast castle complex, perched high above the Vltava River. With its stunning architecture and panoramic views, it’s one of the highlights of your journey and a perfect way to cap off a memorable day.

Today's stage of your cycle tour from Prague to Passau through the Bohemian Forest will challenge you with some steep climbs, but the effort will be well worth it. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views that make the hard work feel like a distant memory. Cycling through dense coniferous forests, you’ll experience the peace and purity of the forest air. Along the route, you'll encounter the impressive Rosenberg Castle, a majestic fortress that marks a notable point in your journey. Soon after, the Vltava River forms the Lipno Reservoir, offering a perfect spot to pause and refresh after your exertions. As you continue, you’ll cross the border into Austria, bidding farewell to the Czech Republic. Your destination for the night is Aigen, nestled in the scenic Mühlviertel region. 

The final stage of your cycle tour from Prague to Passau takes you through the tranquil Mühlviertel region to the Danube. Enjoy peaceful wooded landscapes and gentle hills, with stunning panoramic views of the Alps on clear days. Soon, you’ll reach the Danube, passing the iconic Schlögener Schlinge (Danube Loop) as you approach Passau. If preferred, you can shorten the last stretch by boat from Engelhartszell to Passau. Once in Passau, take a leisurely evening stroll through this charming Baroque town, soaking in its beauty and historic ambiance.

After breakfast, your cycle tour from Prague to Passau comes to a close. If you wish to extend your stay, we would be delighted to arrange an extra night for you.