Czech Republic & Austria Biking

Old World Charms & the Danube River

From the pastoral beauty of the Czech Republic to Austria's legendary Danube River, this Backroads odyssey brings together two regions rich in history, culture and tradition. After a rendezvous in Prague, the city of a hundred spires, we travel to Hluboká to discover one of Bohemia's most magnificent castles. In the well-preserved city of Český Krumlov, a World Heritage site, wander along cobblestone streets and explore hidden architectural and cultural treasures. Relax over pints of locally brewed beer after returning from an exhilarating ride through the surrounding countryside. In Austria's heartland, rolling hills reveal fertile vineyards and farms. Continuing toward Vienna, follow the romantic Danube and ride in the shadow of the imposing Melk Abbey. Each day we enjoy the hospitality of inns brimming with charm - the perfect complements to our magical two-wheeled journey.

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Trip Highlights

Bike along the fabled Danube River and through Wachau Valley vineyards
Český Krumlov, with its Baroque and Renaissance houses, Gothic castles, cobbled streets and tucked-away squares
Step into a villager's farmhouse for a tasting of fermented apfel cider
A rousing performance of 19th-century folk dance
Hike to the castle ruins above Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned

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The Day-to-Day Itinerary

Day 1 Discover two intriguing countries and cultures in a single trip After shuttling south into the heart of Bohemia, bike undulating hills through serene farmland Repeatedly rebuilt, Hluboká's impressive 13th-century castle has tried on Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic, Tudor and Windsor styles.

Days 2-3 Český Krumlov, a World Heritage site with Baroque and Renaissance houses, Gothic castles, cobblestone streets and tucked-away squares Make your way to the World Heritage site of Holasovice, known for its charming "folk Baroque" buildings Take a spin into the countryside for a panoramic view of rolling hills and traditional farmsteads Visit Krumlov Hrad, a 13th-century Gothic castle Have a burning question? Now's your chance to query, as we sit down for an informal Q&A with a Czech historian Local musicians serenade us during dinner at a delightful restaurant featuring traditional fare.

Day 4 Step into a villager's farmhouse for a tasting of fermented apfel cider Welcome to Austria's famed Danube Valley, where you'll cycle past lush orchards, terraced vineyards, forests and pretty pastel-colored villages Pedal the scenic Wachau wine region, followed by a pleasant riverside ride through historic hamlets.

Days 5-6 Austria's picture-perfect towns with onion-shaped church steeples Stop in Melk, home to a magnificent Baroque abbey perched high on a promontory above the water Pedal along the Danube River, picking up the Donauradweg (the Danube's famous bike path) Delight in a final spin to Spitz, a lovely village of narrow cobblestone streets, small cafés and historic architecture Soak up the views from Dürnstein's castle ruins, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned.

Route Rating What's this?

Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. Each offers options for more or less activity, so you can decide exactly how much you want to do day by day.

Lodging What's this?

Our lodgings are divided into three different categories.

Premiere Inns: These lodgings possess both elegance and authentic regional flair.
Casual Inns: These lodgings are comfortable and appropriate to the area with such characteristics as authenticity, scenic settings and proximity to our activities.
Deluxe Family Camping: We set up the tents (and take them down), handle every camp chore and perform culinary magic.

Detailed Itinerary

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Look at what other guests are saying about this trip!

I thoroughly enjoyed this Backroads trip to the Czech Republic and Austria. It's the experience of all day biking and excellent service of our leaders that make your tours an unforgettable experience. Our group was comprised of all friends and neighbors - we were amazed at how everyone even the first time Backroads participants would go on another Backroads biking tour in a heartbeat. Bravo to our leaders for making beautiful memories for our group!!!

Bernadette Reist - Jenkintown, PA More about this Trip All Guest Reviews

For 32 years, Backroads has been perfecting the art of active travel. We are the tour experts. To see all our biking tours click here. For our selection of award-winning walking and hiking tours click here. For our selection of award-winning multisport tours click here.