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.
Day 1: Arrive ViennaMake 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: Vienna - HainburgThis morning you receive your bikes before setting off on your first day of riding.
On leaving Vienna the route takes you through the Donau-Auen National Park, an area of extensive flood plains, which have turned into small ponds offering a rich habitat to countless species of birds, animals and insects. From here, pass Orth Castle and the pretty village of Eckertsau before arriving in Hainburg.
Day 3: Hainburg to BratislavaFollow the Roman bike trail to one of Austria's most important archaeological sites, the Roman remains at Petronell-Carnuntum. End your day in the Gothic old town of Bratislava, Slovakia's pretty capital city that exudes old world charm.
Day 4: Bratislava to MosonmagyarovarAfter a short cycle through Slovakia, you cross the Hungarian border into Rajka. Cycle past storybook villages, where you can still find traditional thatched-roofed farm houses. 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 5: Mosonmagyarovar to GyorToday, 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, before arriving in the colourful town of Gyor, to take in its sights and breathtaking historic centre.
Day 6: Gyor/Komarom to EsztergomTake the train to Komarom then pedal along the riverbanks of 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.
Day 7: Esztergom to BudapestHead to 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 take a leisurely boat ride into the centre of the city and appreciate the stunning architecture.
Day 8: End BudapestEnd 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!
