Passau Itineraries. 3 Days, 1 Week, Budget Travel

Day 1: Passau City Exploration

Start your visit in Passau'the Old Quarter. Take a walk to the confluence of the trio of rivers (Dreiflüssestadt) where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz meet.

Explore St. Stephen'the Main church of and consider attending an organ concert. Visit the Artists' Alley (Künstlergasse) and dine at a traditional Bavarian restaurant. Consider a GetYourGuide city tour.

Morning to Evening

Morning: Three Rivers Confluence and The Old center walk.
Afternoon: St. Stephen's Cathedral and organ concert.
Evening: Dinner in the Old Town.

Day 2: Castles & Views

Dedicate a day to historical sites and panoramic vistas around Passau.

Veste Oberhaus & City Views

Ascend to Veste Oberhaus for a museum visit and panoramic views of Passau. It is a legacy fortress with a view of the city.

Fortress Exploration

Morning: Visit Veste Oberhaus fortress and museum.
Enjoy extensive views of Passau and the three rivers.
Capture scenic photos from various viewpoints.
The citadel is accessible by a local bus or a walk.

Combine with a local lunch near the castle.

Donau-Panoramaweg Hike

Spend the afternoon on a section of the Donau-Panoramaweg, a long-distance hiking trail along the Danube River.

Riverside Walk

Afternoon: Explore a section of the scenic Danube Panorama Trail.
The trail runs straight through Passau and features pleasant riverside views.
Find delightful towns connected by the trail.

Mariahilf Pilgrimage Church

For those seeking more history and views, a walk up to the Mariahilf Pilgrimage Church is rewarding.

Sacred Ascent

This pilgrimage site includes a staircase climb.
Enjoy panoramic views from the church.
The vistas offer a different perspective of Passau.
Suitable for those who enjoy a more challenging walk.

Evening River Cruise

Finish your day with a relaxing evening river cruise on the Danube. This gives a tranquil perspective of the city as dusk falls.

Waterfront Relaxation

Enjoy the illuminated cityscape from a boat.
Many cruises offer dinner options.
Check schedules for evening departure times.
Book your experience through GetYourGuide.

Flexibility & Customization

These itineraries are suggestions. Adjust them to match your interests and pace.

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Spend more time hiking or cycling in the Ilz A valley or Bavarian Forest.

History Buffs

Dedicate more time to museums and places of historical interest within Passau.

Relaxation Seekers

Enjoy a slower pace, perhaps with a day trip to the thermal baths in Bad Füssing.

Local Insights

Passau's compact size allows for easy exploration by foot inside the Old Town. Public transport or a car works well for side trips in the suburbs.

Day 3: Bavarian Forest National Park

Explore Germany's first national park, a haven for nature and wildlife.

Treetop Walkway & Wildlife

Drive to Neuschönau for the Baumwipfelpfad (Treetop Walkway), an accessible path offering unique forest views.

Forest Immersion

Morning: Visit Baumwipfelpfad in Neuschönau.
Explore the nearby Tier-Freigelände (animal enclosures).
Observe native animals like lynx, wolves, and bears in naturalistic habitats.
Opportunities for wildlife photography.

A full day allows exploration of several park facilities.

Hiking & Nature Trails

Afternoon in the National Park includes a selection of hiking trails. Choose a route based on your desired difficulty.

Trail Options

Easy, accessible walks are available near visitor centers.
More challenging hikes lead to peaks like Lusen or Rachel.
Maps and information are available at the park's visitor centers.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking.

Seasonal Activities

Depending on the season, the Bavarian Forest offers different experiences.

Year-Round Appeal

Winter: Opportunities for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Spring/Summer/Autumn: Lush forests and diverse flora.
Birdwatching is popular in warmer months.
Enjoy the season's changes and their singular beauty.

For nature tours with a guide and things to do, check GetYourGuide for options in the Bavarian Forest.

Evening Return

After a full day in nature, return to Passau for a relaxed evening.

Relaxation

Consider a traditional Bavarian dinner in one of Passau's restaurants.
Enjoy a local beer or a warm drink.
Reflect on the day's natural beauty.
Review your photos of the forest and wildlife.

Alternative Day Trip: Linz, Austria

For a change of pace, a day trip to Linz, Austria, offers urban exploration and art.

Austrian City Experience

Linz is about 1 hour by direct train from Passau.
Visit the Lentos Art Museum on the Danube.
Ride the Pöstlingbergbahn for panoramic city views.
Explore the quaint historic Old Town of Linz.

Alternative Day Trip: Regensburg

Another excellent day trip option is Regensburg, an A World Heritage site with a middle ages Old Town.

Medieval Marvels

Regensburg is approximately 1 hour by train from Passau.
Visit the impressive Regensburg Cathedral.
Walk across the historic Stone Bridge spanning the Danube.
Explore the exceptionally well-preserved medieval Old Town.

Personalized Experience

Your Interests

Customize your itinerary for your particular interests, whether it is history, nature, or urban exploration.

Pace Your Trip

Allow ample time for travel between spots and for enjoying each location at your own pace.

Mix & Match

Combine elements from various days or use the alternative day trips as replacements.

Travel Advice

Public transport is effective for city-to-city travel. For the Bavarian Forest, a car has more freedom.

Day 4: Danube Cycle Path or Schärding

Choose between an active one day on the Danube Cycle Path or a relaxing visit to the charming Austrian town of Schärding.

Danube Cycle Path

Passau is a major hub on the famous Donauradweg (Danube Cycle Path). This largely level and well-maintained route is suitable for all skill levels.

Cycling Adventure

Rent a bicycle in Passau and cycle by the river.
Cycle to a nearby town like Engelhartszell or even Linz (longer ride).
Consider an one-way cycle with a return by boat or train.
Wear comfortable cycling attire.

Enjoy the scenic riverside views and lovely small towns along the way.

Schärding, Austria

For a calmer day, visit the picturesque Baroque town of Schärding, located just across the border in Austria.

Austrian Charm

Schärding is about 20-30 minutes by car or regional train from Passau.
Explore the vibrant Town Square, known as "Silberzeile" (Silver Row).
Enjoy lunch or coffee in one of the quaint cafes.
Stroll along the Inn River promenade.

Alternative: Ilz Valley Exploration

Hiking in Ilz Valley

Explore the wild and from the roman eratic Ilz River valley.
Scenic trails along the river.
Accessible by public transport or a short drive from Passau.

Cycling in Ilz Valley

The Ilz Valley Cycle Path provides a quieter ride.
Enjoy the natural surroundings and tranquility.
Good opportunities for nature photography.

Evening in Passau

Return to Passau for your final evening. Enjoy a leisurely dinner and perhaps check out a local pub.

Farewell Activities

Choose a restaurant for a final taste of Bavarian cuisine.
Visit a pub in the Old Town, especially around Ludwigstrasse.
Take a final evening walk along the riverfront.
Reflect on your time in Passau.

Departure Planning

Plan your departure from Passau. The train station connects to major German cities.

Smooth Exit

Passau Hauptbahnhof offers connections to Munich, Vienna, and different locations.
Nearest international airports are Munich (MUC) and Linz (LNZ).
While driving, plan your route for a smooth journey.
Allow ample time for travel to the airport or train station.

Weather-Dependent Activities

Outdoor Activities

Cycling and hiking are weather-dependent. Check forecasts and have alternative indoor plans.

River Cruises

Riverboat tours are open seasonally. Verify availability, especially outside of peak summer months.

Final Thoughts

Passau offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and culture. These itinerary suggestions help you make the most of your visit. Enjoy your trip!

Passau Itineraries