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. From 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.
Trip Planning Links
- 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
- Riding along the Donauradweg, the most famous bike path in Europe
- A rousing performance of 19th-century folk dance
- Hike to the castle ruins above Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned
The Day-to-Day Itinerary
Day 1 Hluboka
Gather in Prague 
After shuttling south into the heart of Bohemia, bike undulating hills through pastoral farmland In Hluboká nad Vltavou, visit the town’s impressive 13th-century castle, rebuilt several times in Renaissance, Baroque, Romantic, Tudor and Windsor styles.
Days 2-3 cesky krumlov
Make your way to the World Heritage site of Holasovice, known for its charming "folk Baroque" buildings In Český Krumlov, Bohemia’s best-preserved town, the majority of buildings are designated cultural monuments 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, 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.
Days 4-6 Durnstein
Wind through Austria’s famed Danube Valley, passing cornfields, fruit orchards, vineyards, forests and hamlets with onion-domed church steeples Pedal the scenic Wachau wine region, followed by a pleasant riverside ride through historic villages Stop in Melk, home to a magnificent Baroque abbey perched high on a promontory above the water Spin along the Danube River, picking up the Donauradweg (the Danube’s famous bike path) Hike to the castle ruins above Dürnstein, where Richard I was imprisoned 
Shuttle to historic Vienna, where our trip comes to an end.
- 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.
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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!!!- Jenkintown, PA More about this Trip All Guest Reviews
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Czech Republic & Austria Biking
COMFORT & CHARM: Casual Inns
Hotel Podhrad
Hluboká (1 night) With a prime spot in the heart of town, this inn features individually decorated rooms, as well as a restaurant, a swimming pool, a whirlpool and massage services.
hotel ruze
Český Krumlov (2 nights) A former Jesuit monastery dating to the 16th century, with period décor and a perfect location in the town’s center.
Romantik Hotel Richard Lowenherz
Dürnstein (2 nights) Enjoy fabulous views of the Danube at this former convent, surrounded by the remains of the medieval city wall.
Czech Republic & Austria Biking
Daily Mileage Options & Cumulative Elevation Gain
Routes For All Abilities
Every Backroads trip is designed to appeal to a wide variety of interests and fitness levels. We know your pace may vary from one day to the next-and your traveling companion's may differ somewhat from yours. So we present a range of mileage options, and each day you decide exactly what and how much you want to do.
| Activity Level | Average Time | Biking Average | Walking Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| Insider Trips | Explore at a leisurely pace—on village walks, market strolls, art history excursions, hands-on cooking classes and more. | ||
| 1 | 2-3 hours | 10-20 miles | 2-5 miles |
| 2 | 2-4 hours | 21-30 miles | 5-7 miles |
| 3 | 3-5 hours | 31-40 miles | 7-9 miles |
| 4 | 4-6 hours | 41-55 miles | 9-11 miles |
| 5 | 5-7+ hours | 56-75+ miles | 11-13+ miles |
Day 1
- Level 1 2 Route Options Available
- 13, 18 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain
Day 2
- Levels 1 to 3 3 Route Options Available
- Biking 13, 18, 33 miles
- 500 - 800 feet elevation gain
- Walking Tour of Ceský Krumlov 1 hour
Day 3
- Levels 1 to 4 3 Route Options Available
- 13, 28, 51 miles
- 0 - 3400 feet elevation gain
Day 4
- Levels 3 to 4 2 Route Options Available
- Biking 35, 42 miles
- 1312 feet elevation gain
Day 5
- Levels 2 to 5 3 Route Options Available
- 24, 48, 62 miles
- 300 - 3100 feet elevation gain
Day 6
- Level 1 1 Route Option Available
- Optional Walking 1.5 miles
- 0 - 500 feet elevation gain