Overview
Enjoy meandering rides along the Danube from Austria to Hungary
This is a classic ride linking two historic cities. Your journey starts in
Vienna, which requires little introduction, with its abundance of famous
sites, entertainment and culture. The River Danube serves as the spine of the
cycling route as you meander back and forth through woodland, farmland,
avenues of walnut trees, wide flat landscapes and shady hills. A night is
spent in the pretty city of Bratislava and in the lovely town of Gyor, as we
head towards the Danube Bend at Esztergom. The end point for the trip is the
city of Budapest with time to soak up the wonderful atmosphere and enjoy the
stunning architecture.
Highlights
* Meander along the Danube
* Cycle 3 countries in one week
* Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest
Itinerary
Day 1
Start Vienna
Make your own way to the hotel. The rest of the day is left free to explore
Vienna at your leisure. It is a metropolis with unique charm, vibrancy and
flair. It boasts outstanding infrastructure, is clean and safe, and has all
of the culture, architecture and inspiration that you could wish for in this
wonderful part of Europe. Highlights that you may consider include visits to
the grand Schonbrunn Palace, Sigmund Freud Museum and a tour in the Vienna
State Opera House. Don’t miss a visit to one of the many wonderful coffee
shops to enjoy the typical cake Sachertorte!
Day 2
Cycle to the Roman remains at Petronell-Carnuntum; stay in Bratislava
This morning you receive your bikes before setting off on your first day of
riding.
On leaving Vienna the route takes you through extensive flood plains, which
have turned into small ponds offering a rich habitat to countless species of
birds, animals and insects. You will follow the Donauinsel, a long, thin
island and continue to one of Austria’s most important archaeological sites,
the Roman remains at Petronell-Carnuntum. Much of the track is gravel/grit
but is comfortable to ride on. You end your day in Slovakia’s pretty capital
city of Bratislava, where there are plenty of options for a hearty meal and a
drink after your ride.
Day 3
Cross the Hungarian border; cycle through charming villages to
Mosonmagyarovar
You cycle a short distance in Slovak territory today, before crossing the
Hungarian border in Rajka. The cycling takes in charming villages, where you
can still find thatched-roofed farm houses, in an area almost completely
influenced by agriculture. Your route guides you through the Szigetkoz (a
small Rye island) towards Mosonmagyarovar; the charming old ‘city of 17
bridges’. The city centre is noteworthy for its impressive collection of
baroque buildings.
Day 4
Cycle to Hedervar castle; onwards to the pretty town of Gyor
Today you follow a flat cycling route as it takes you through the outstanding
natural surroundings of the island between the Danube and the Mosoni Duna
(Small Danube). Make a stop to see Hedervar Castle, located in the middle of
protected parkland. Arrive in the charming colourful town of Gyor with time
to take in the many sights and breathtaking historic centre.
Day 5
Cycle towards Komarom; option to stop at the National Stud farm in Babolna
Today’s ride follows a gently rolling landscape towards Bony, ending in
Komarom. It is possible to take a detour to Babolna, a well cultivated town
with a beautiful inner city, famous for the National Stud horses which are
bred in the inner courtyards. The final part of the route takes you back to
the Danube and onwards to the divided town of Komarom/Komarno, where you can
enjoy a relaxing spa visit if you wish!
Day 6
Follow the riverbanks along the flat Danube valley, towards Esztergom (known
as ‘Hungarian Rome’)
Today you pedal along riverbanks in the flat Danube Valley, passing quaint
villages and lush vineyards. Fitter cyclists can choose a route over Tata,
but be aware this is more strenuous and there are no shops and restaurants
along the way. Those interested in the history of the area should plan some
time for the Roman archaelogical site of Kelemantia, where a military camp
stood from the 2nd to the 4th Century. The absolute highlight of the day
however, is Esztergom (also known as Hungarian Rome), with the largest
basilica in the country. Take some time for a comprehensive visit, before
boarding a riverboat to Visegrd. (Please note the boat does not operate
in April, September or October or on Mondays – in these cases a train ticket
will be provided instead).
Day 7
Ride round the Danube Bend to Szentendre; bike or boat to Budapest
Leaving Visegrd, you reach the Danube Bend, probably one of the most
attractive sections of the Danube bike trail. Here, the river winds its way
through the Visegrad Mountains and makes a sharp turn towards the south. The
Royal Palace and castle of Visegrad, and the open air museum are well worth a
visit, as is the old Baroque town of Szentendre. Here you can choose to cycle
onwards to Budapest (approx 25km) or take a leisurely boat ride into the
centre of the city and appreciate the stunning architecture (boat only runs
on a Saturday from September onwards).
Day 8
End Budapest
End your trip in Budapest. There is much to see in this iconic city and we
are pleased to book additional nights for you if you wish. Hungary’s capital
is bisected by the River Danube, and the 19th Century Chain Bridge connects
its hilly Buda district with the flat Pest. The city is easy to explore on
foot; don’t miss the chance to visit one of the city’s famous thermal baths
or walk up to the dome of St Stephan’s Basilica for a fantastic panoramic
view!
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