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Embark on an exhilarating 8-day cycling odyssey that spans 3countries in 1 week as you traverse from Austria to Hungary. This classic route seamlessly connects two historic cities, guiding you along tranquil tarmac roads and scenic cycle paths that follow the majestic Danube River. Unveil the treasures of Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest as you pedal through their captivating landscapes. This self-guided adventure grants you the freedom to explore at your own rhythm, with the flexibility to pause and savour your journey as you wish. All that’s left for you is to relish the ride and the charm of each city along the way.
Your adventure begins in Vienna, where you’ll immerse yourself in the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant charm at your own pace. Pedal out through Donau-Auen National Park and ...
Your adventure begins in Vienna, where you’ll immerse yourself in the city’s stunning architecture and vibrant charm at your own pace. Pedal out through Donau-Auen National Park and marvel at Orth Castle before reaching Hainburg. Trace the Roman bike trail past ancient ruins in Petronell-Carnuntum and journey into Slovakia’s gothic capital, Bratislava. Cross into Hungary and explore Rajka before arriving in Mosonmagyaróvár, famed for its 17 picturesque bridges. Cycle a scenic, flat route around a Danube island to Gyor, then board a train to Komarom. Ride along serene riverbanks and lush vineyards, culminating in a visit to Esztergom, Hungary’s own Rome. Experience the breathtaking Danube Bend, where the river wraps around a dramatic mountain, and finish your journey with a leisurely boat ride to Budapest. Explore the city’s enchanting beauty, bisected by the majestic Danube River, to conclude your unforgettable trip.
This package includes 7 nights' accommodations in hotels on a twin-share basis with all breakfasts included as specified. A self guided package, explore the region at your own pace and style with provided route notes and maps, luggage transfers and navigation app.
Experience the magic, cultures, and scenic glory of some of Europe’s historic gems in a cycling adventure that mixes luxury and bursts of energy. For 8 days, discover magnificent valleys, bond with the elegant Danube River, absorb cultures and create unforgettable moments.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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On the first day of the trip, arrive in Vienna, the grand capital of Austria, and check into your choice hotel. The rest of the day is available to explore this magnificent city that brims with outstanding architecture, history, arts, and heartwarming cultures. Explore this city's clean and safe streets, jammed with baroque palaces and gardens. Stroll along the elegant Vienna Ring Road, lined with grand monuments, landmarks, parks, and regal buildings reflecting Renaissance and Gothic architecture with dazzling frescoes. Notable attractions in the city include Schonbrunn Palace and its zoo – the oldest in the world, founded in 1752, Vienna State Opera, Vienna City Hall, Upper Belvedere, and Prater Park. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit one of the many astonishing coffee shops to enjoy the typical cake, Sachertorte.
At your hotel, Hotel Brauhof Wien, recline at the shared lounge terrace to relax and enjoy a cocktail before settling into the cosy confines of your room to rest for the night. Otherwise, head to the beer garden shaded by chestnut trees, with a central fountain trickling its waters in tranquility. Enjoy the finest crafted beers in the city here and enjoy beer tavern cuisine.
Approx. 46 km (29 miles), 2-3 hours biking
Wake up this morning and enjoy your breakfast as the sun rises to kiss the city of Vienna. Mount your bike’s saddle and say farewell to Vienna, leaving its iconic sights behind as you embark on your first cycling course out of the city. The route takes you through the Donau-Auen National Park, defined by numerous floodplains that have transformed into small ponds over time. These ponds now serve as a habitat for various insects, birds, and animals.
Relish the sights of this iconic forest, including the majestic Danube River running through it, and cycle past Orth Castle, with its proud towers spearing onto the horizon. The Lengenbach Family built this grand castle around 1140, one of the largest buildings of Renaissance-style architecture in Lower Austria. The route bypasses the small, charming town of Eckertsau and the last residence of Charles I of Austria, a former emperor of Austria and King of Hungary. Arrive in Hainburg, a city on the right bank of the Danube River, famed for its 13th-century Vienna Gate, the largest mediaeval gate in Europe and home to the city’s museum.
Arrive at your hotel, Altes Kloster, just a few kilometres from the Danube River, to recreate and recharge for the night. Utilise its wellness centre, featuring a sauna room, infrared cabins, rest area, and steam bath, to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy a dinner of local cuisine at the restaurant, created with ingredients fresh from the Carnuntum region.
Approx. 37 km (23 miles), 2-3 hours biking
This morning, savour a hearty breakfast and set your mind to enthralling visuals ahead. Hop on your saddle and take on the Roman Bike Trail that leads out of Hainburg while enjoying striking views of the 346-metre-high Braunsberg Hill, flanked by the Danube River, as it overlooks the city and is visible from a distance. Along the route, you will meet one of Austria’s most prestigious archaeological sites – Petronell-Carnuntum. The Romans relinquished this magical small town in the 5th century, and it is home to a 2000-year-old amphitheatre around its city walls.
Cross the Austrian-Slovak border with views of the Carpathian Mountains to arrive in Bratislava - the beautiful capital city of Slovakia, a Gothic town riddled with old-world charms. The town lies at the foothills of the Little Carpathian Mountains, flanked by the Danube River. It is the only national capital on the borders of two sovereign states – Hungary and Austria. If there’s still time, tour some of the city’s highlight attractions such as Bratislava Castle, The Blue Church, Slavia War Monument, and Primacial Palace.
Check into your accommodation for the night—Hotel Devin, with its exquisitely designed curb appeal catching the eye at first glance. Once here, relax strayed nerves from the trip in one of its saunas or re-energize by taking laps in the swimming pool. A delicate back, shoulder, foot, and neck massage at the wellness centre can be perfect for a peaceful and refreshing night's rest.
Breakfast is the starter pack today, and the cycling will be short-lived in Slovakia because it is close to the Hungarian border. Cycle for a while, cross the border to Hungary, and meet the small village of Rajka. Here, you'll pass fabled villages preserving traditional huts and thatched-roof farmhouses. The village is also remarkable for hosting the triple border point, a landmark where Slovakia, Hungary, and Austria meet.
The route guides you through Szigetkoz, the largest island in Hungary. It is renowned for its various branches of the Danube River and quarry lakes, which are best seen by cycling or canoeing. As you cycle through the island, you will arrive at Mosonmagyarovar, a charming old city of 17 bridges and a city centre famed for its baroque buildings.
Check in to your hotel, Lajta Park, and quickly subscribe to a full-body massage at the wellness centre to recharge and sleep better. Settle into your cosy room afterward to reminisce about the day’s experience before slumber takes charge.
Approx. 40 km (25 miles), 3-5 hours biking
This morning, you will cycle on an easier route void of hills, which will afford you a sweet pedalling experience. The flatness of this route is not the only benefit – you get to enjoy visuals of the natural beauty on the island between the Danube and Mosoni Duna (Small Danube) rivers. As you cycle past fields of crops and greenery, you'll meet one of the small villages on the route, Hedervar, with a small namesake stream. Stop by the Hedervar Castle, a hotel, and tour this iconic landmark with its unforgettable Renaissance aura. Proceed to Gyor, an enchanting and vibrant city where three rivers – Mosoni-Danube, Rabca, and Raba, meet.
The city grips the attention of every passerby with its array of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque churches and buildings. Tour attractions such as the Roman Museum of Archaeology, Benedictine Church of St. Ignatius, the 15th-century Gothic Doczy Chapel, and the baroque Gyor Basilica with its charming 18th-century frescoes.
Make your way to Barokk Hotel Promenade, a historic landmark in the city's heart, and find rest in its warm, sound-insulated rooms. Enjoy free drinks at the lounge on the first floor as you soak in the pleasant atmosphere, then dine at the adjacent LaMareda restaurant, which features tantalising regional fares. (Dinner not included)
Approx. 55 km (34 miles), 4-6 hours biking
Breakfast this morning at your hotel takes an a la carte theme and sets you up for another day of exhilarating cycling with a little twist. You will take a train from Gyor to Komarom, then cycle along the banks of the flat Danube Valley, passing through laid-back, exotic villages and well-tendered vineyards blooming in lushness. If you are still fit for more challenging pedalling, prove your mettle over the Tata route and note that this route is void of shops and restaurants should you decide to restock or eat. While on the route, history buffs who want to delve into the area’s glorious past should visit the Roman archaeological site of Kelementia. This site is home to a military camp that survived from the 2nd to the 4th century.
However, the highlight of this part of the trip is visiting Esztergom, dubbed the Hungarian version of Rome, and home to the largest church in Hungary—Esztergom Basilica. This iconic Basilica overlooks the Danube River from a hill, with its 72-metre-high (235-foot-high) dome towering over the city. The city’s Christian Museum also has Hungary's largest collection of Christian artefacts.
Tonight, you stay at Hotel Honti, nestled in the heart of Visegrád with stunning views of the medieval Upper Castle. This haven offers a serene escape with its luxurious wellness and spa amenities. Unwind in the complimentary indoor pool or the seasonal outdoor pool, rejuvenate in the sauna, or soak away your cares in the hot tub. The lush garden and tranquil terrace provide the perfect spots to relax and soak in the surrounding beauty.
Approx. 65 km (40. 4 miles), 5-7+ hours biking
The penultimate day of the trip starts with a vitalizing breakfast in the otherworldly luxurious Grand Hotel. Today, one of the most spectacular views of the bike trail is at Danube Bend. Enjoy breakfast and cycle to this region of spellbinding natural scenery, where the mountains on both sides compel the Danube River to curve and head south. The Transdanubian Mountains stand guard on the right banks, while the North Hungarian Mountains occupy the left. The scenery combines rocky green hills, countryside charm, and river beauty in one visual treat.
Explore the old baroque town of Szentendre, located along the banks of the Danube between Budapest and the Visegrad mountains. Capture its colourful houses sliced by cobblestone streets, and stop by one of its art museums or contemporary galleries to be inspired by thought-provoking creativity in paintings. Take a boat ride to the centre of Budapest and find some of Europe's most impressive architectural structures still in their regal stance after enduring for centuries.
You’ll stay at the Hotel Hilton perched within Budapest’s breathtaking Castle District, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, placing you steps away from the iconic Fisherman’s Bastion and the stunning Matthias Church. Relish sweeping views of the Danube and the city skyline from your elegantly appointed room, all just a 15-minute journey from the vibrant city center of Pest.
Wake up this morning to enjoy your last breakfast of the trip at the Novo2 Lounge Bar Restaurant with panoramic views of the Parliamentary Building, one of the largest and finest in central Europe. The journey ends in Budapest, but there is so much to see and do here, and we can assist you in booking an additional night to make the most out of the city. Thankfully, the hotel sits in the Buda district of the town, along the Danube River, sharing proximity with an array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
Admire the 19th-century chain bridge that connects the hilly Buda region to the flat Pest area. Visit one of the city's thermal baths and ascend the dome of St Stephen’s Basilica to drink in awe-inspiring city views. Explore the Buda Castle, Fisherman Bastion, and Hungarian Parliament, and roam the shores of the Danube River before calling it a day.
When you’re ready, pack up and bid the city an emotional farewell after enjoying one or two sights of your choice.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Please contact us for private departures and group bookings. Single Supplement is available on request.
- The departure point is Vienna, Austria
- The finish point is Budapest, Hungary
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Vienna. The closest airport to Vienna is Vienna International Airport (Flughafen Wien), located about 18 kilometers (11 miles) southeast of the city center. It’s the main international gateway to Vienna and offers a wide range of domestic and international flights.
- Airport transfers are not included. Joining location starts in your accommodation in Vienna making your own arrangements there. The start hotel is an easy journey from Vienna airport by taxi (approx. €345) or train/underground. Detailed instructions will be sent to you with your final joining instructions.
Vienna
Vienna experiences a temperate oceanic climate with moderate seasonal variations. Winters are cold, with temperatures between -1°C and 4°C (30°F to 39°F) and occasional snow. Spring is mild, ranging from 6°C to 18°C (43°F to 64°F), and offers blooming flowers and increasing sunshine. Summers are warm to hot, averaging 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), with occasional heatwaves pushing temperatures above 30°C (86°F). Fall is cooler, with temperatures between 8°C and 18°C (46°F to 64°F) and increased rainfall.
Bratislava
Bratislava has a continental climate with colder winters and hotter summers than Vienna. Winter temperatures range from -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F), with frequent snow. Spring sees mild to warm temperatures from 6°C to 18°C (43°F to 64°F). Summer is warm to hot, averaging 16°C to 27°C (61°F to 81°F), with occasional heatwaves above 30°C (86°F). Fall is cooler, with temperatures from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F) and increasing rainfall as the season progresses.
Budapest
Budapest enjoys a continental climate characterized by hot summers and cold winters. Winters are cold, with temperatures ranging from -2°C to 4°C (28°F to 39°F) and occasional snow. Spring is mild to warm, with temperatures between 7°C and 19°C (45°F to 66°F) and pleasant weather. Summers are hot, averaging 16°C to 27°C (61°F to 81°F), with temperatures sometimes exceeding 30°C (86°F). Fall is cooler, with temperatures from 9°C to 18°C (48°F to 64°F) and increased rain.
The biking level on this trip is rated Level 2 Leisurely & Moderate.
Level 1: LeisurelyIf you can ride a bike and enjoy gentle exercise, these trips are an ideal introduction to a cycling adventure. No routes are entirely flat, so expect some short climbs and descents. Maximum daily height gain is approximately 985ft (300m). The average daily distance is 12mi to 25mi (40km to 70km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 32mi (50km). Longer days are often optional.
Level 3: Moderate
You need to be in good health and reasonably fit. Moderate trips are ideal for occasional/weekend cyclists or fitter riders looking for a more relaxed adventure. Off-road trips do not require experience. Expect average daily distances between 25mi and 43mi (40km and 70km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 62mi (100km).
Level 5: ChallengingFitness is vital. Challenging trips require confidence in your ability and physical condition. They are equivalent to an extended period of cycling at home. Mountain biking experience is essential for Challenging off-road trips, as they will involve some technical riding. Expect average daily distances between 31mi and 56mi (50km and 90km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 75mi (120km).
Level 7: ToughExperience of the trip’s cycling style is essential, with long days on the saddle and tougher terrain both on- and off-road. You need complete confidence in your fitness and technical ability to cope with difficult or steep terrains, rough surfaces and longer distances. Tough trips are ideal if you’re looking to test yourself. Expect average daily distances between 50mi and 62mi (80km and 100km); on rare occasions, you may cycle up to 100mi (160km).
Split gradesWhere a trip falls between two grades, we use an intermediate or ‘split’ grade, for example, Level 2 (Leisurely/Moderate).
All bikes are supplied with:
Seat and handlebar heights will have been set up in advance from the heights you have given us on booking. However, when you receive your bike there will be the opportunity to test and adjust. Electronic bikes are available for this trip, please request one as early as possible as they are subject to availability. Helmets can be requested if you wish, but please be aware we can never guarantee the quality of these so we do recommend bringing your own.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. The tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.