This cycling journey across Central Europe links the enchanting city of Prague to the historic imperial city of Vienna. This captivating bike tour seamlessly unites two of Europe's most beautiful destinations. As you pedal along this scenic route, you'll traverse a rich tapestry of ancient and culturally significant landscapes. Rolling hills, lush meadows, and dense, verdant forests intermingle with charming, idyllic Bohemian villages, creating a picturesque backdrop for your adventure.
Your path will lead you past a plethora of magnificent castles and opulent palaces, and you'll wind your way through unspoiled riverbanks and pristine pond-filled landscapes. While the undulating terrain of South Bohemia and the 'Waldviertel' may present some challenges, the reward comes in the form of a refreshing Budweiser beer to rejuvenate your spirits.
Additionally, for those seeking more details about the journey between Prague and Vienna, you can explore historic towns such as Český Krumlov and picturesque landscapes along the Vltava River before reaching the Austrian border. As you cross into Austria, you'll encounter the stunning Waldviertel region with its unique granite formations and charming countryside. Your ride culminates in the grandeur of Vienna, offering a splendid blend of history, culture, and architectural marvels to explore. This cycling tour promises an incredible fusion of nature and history that will leave you with lasting memories of this European adventure.
Details about the cycling holiday from Prague to Vienna
Cycling between Prague and Vienna is an exciting city-to-city journey that combines picturesque landscapes, rich history, and interesting places to stop off at along the way, covering over 400 kilometres.
Starting in Prague, the capital city of the Czech Republic, you'll soon encounter stunning castles and landmarks as you ride further into South Bohemia. You'll also pass through historic towns such as Budweis, with its famous brewery.
Crossing into Austria from South Bohemia, you'll notice the landscape change as you enter the Waldviertel, an area characterised by numerous river and pond landscapes. Upon arrival in Vienna, you'll have time to explore beautiful cultural landmarks such as Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the vibrant Naschmarkt.
The highlights of the Prague to Vienna cycling holiday at a glance:
Prague: An open-air museum featuring the Old Town Square, Astronomical Clock, Lesser Side, Charles Bridge and Prague Castle. Plenty of time to discover the Golden City with a hundred towers and 18 bridges.
Bohemian villages: Follow the course of the River Vltava and stop off at gothic castles such as Zvikov Castle and Hluboká Castle.
České Budějovice: A charming city with one of the largest public squares in Europe and the home of the Budweiser Budvar Brewery, established in 1895, producer of one of the world's most popular beers,
Vienna: Vienna is the elegant capital of Austria, known for its imperial palaces, rich musical culture, and vibrant arts scene, offering a blend of history, contemporary, and culinary delights.
Worth knowing about this cycling holiday from Prague to Vienna
Cycling enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to indulge in their passion during this cycling holiday. The journey offers comfortable and well-marked routes along the Elbe Route, which ranks among the most popular cycling routes in the Czech Republic.
While pedalling along this scenic route, you'll also have the chance to enjoy Czech cuisine, which is a delightful blend of traditional and modern flavours that, despite its quality, remains relatively undiscovered by many.
The "Golden City" is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The historic buildings, the winding streets of the old town and the breathtaking view from the Charles Bridge are ideal for a stroll through the city.
The Vltava shows you the way from Prague. The slightly hilly and varied landscape will enchant you. On your day trip, you will pass countless small, idyllically situated Bohemian villages. Houses with wood-clad facades inevitably attract attention. Many cosy restaurants invite you for lunch and a refreshing beer. Overnight stay in the Sedlčany area.
Today you largely follow the course of the Vltava, through countless small Bohemian villages and the deep green Bohemian forest. You will cycle along the Vltava reservoir near Milešov to Orlík. The Gothic castle is well worth a visit. But the next attraction is only a few kilometres away: Zvikov Castle was one of the most important castles in Bohemia during the Middle Ages. With the picturesque town of Písek, you have reached the final destination of the day.
A fascinating primordial landscape accompanies you today. Most of the cycle path runs along the romantic banks of the Vltava. Following the route, you will pass nice towns such as Týn nad Vltavou. A small forest path leads you to Hluboká Castle, which towers high above the Vltava and is well worth a visit. At today's final destination, a delicious Budweiser beer provides the right refreshment for your daily effort.
You will experience pure nature during today's stage. There are countless meadows and forests in the South Bohemian landscape. The region has been declared a protected nature reserve by UNESCO and the so-called South Bohemian pond plate has been created from the pond management that has been under development for some time. The completely untouched nature is a fantastic experience for every cyclist. But there is also culture and architecture: historic buildings, old fortresses and picturesque villages lie along your path.
Your stage takes you through the north of Lower Austria. The region of the so-called Waldviertel is characterized by numerous river and pond landscapes. The route leads you through seemingly endless forests with fresh air and that recognizable scent. The Waldviertel cuisine is also known far beyond the country's borders: carp and potatoes are the culinary ambassadors of this region.
The Kamptal cycle route takes you quickly via Langenlois to Hadersdorf. A nice bike path and is also relatively flat. Now the first vineyards around Krems appear in your field of view. From Hadersdorf you continue by train to Tulln. Take some time to visit the Egon Schiele Museum before cycling the last kilometres along the Danube to Vienna. You can reach your accommodation easily and without much traffic via Danube Island.
Vienna still has so much to offer and certainly deserves a visit. Shall we reserve a few extra nights for you?
Route information
The quality of the trails on this route can vary significantly. You'll find well-paved bike paths in some sections, while in others, you'll encounter bumpy, unpaved fields, and forest paths. Typically, the journey takes you along dedicated cycle paths and tranquil country roads, although there are occasional segments with higher traffic volumes.
It's essential to be aware that, especially in the Czech regions and the Waldviertel area, you'll encounter steep slopes that may demand a high level of fitness or the option to choose the convenience of an E-bike. On the positive side, the route is generally well-signposted, making navigation straightforward for cyclists.
7 nights in the chosen category, including breakfast
Train ride Hadersdorf-Tulln including bike
Luggage transfer(s)
Travel folder 1 x per room (German, English with route and overview maps, detailed route description, places of interest, important telephone numbers, luggage labels)
GPS data available on request
Service Hotline
Not included
Tourist tax, if applicable, to be paid locally
(Optional) Return transfer by minibus to Prague every Saturday morning, €99 per person including bike, reservation required, payable locally
Arrival information
Airport: Prague or Vienna Airport
Train: Prague Station
Parking: Parking at arrival hotels is approximately €28 per day, reservation required, to be paid on site
General information
Half board: Dinner in the hotel restaurant or in a restaurant in the immediate vicinity with a voucher