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Passau: Enjoy Bavarian Cuisine, River Views, and Cycling Paths

Aconcagua, Passau Altstadt Panorama 5, CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Aconcagua, Passau Altstadt Panorama 5, CC BY-SA 3.0
small photo of the author of the site
Hello and welcome to my website. My name is Thorsten. I'm a software engineer living in Germany and I love to travel. So I created a site for anyone starting to plan a trip.
What this site is about

✔ Are you planning a self-organized trip to Passau? Then you've come to the right place. Here you will find information to help you plan your perfect stay in Passau.

✔ The most important start information for a trip to Bavaria, can be found on the overview page.

✔ And when it comes to the actual planning, you will find the perfect planner for your trip to Bavaria here.

Nature in the city, relax and enjoy

Passau is a picturesque city known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere. Nestled at the confluence of three rivers, the city offers a unique blend of historical charm and tranquil landscapes. Visitors can expect to find a variety of outdoor spaces that provide a peaceful retreat from the bustling city life, making it an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy nature.

In Passau, tourists can relax at the enchanting Inn River banks, where walking paths offer scenic views and a calming environment. The Klostergarten, a beautiful garden near the city center, provides a peaceful spot for a leisurely stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. For those seeking wellness and rejuvenation, the local thermal baths offer a range of spa treatments and relaxation areas. The Ilz River, with its lush surroundings, is perfect for a tranquil day of hiking or picnicking. Additionally, the Oberhaus Museum's gardens provide a serene setting with panoramic views of the city, ideal for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty.

Culture and history, explore and discover

Passau, nestled at the confluence of three rivers, offers a rich tapestry of culture and history. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant past, the city is a blend of architectural marvels and historical narratives. Visitors can expect to find a harmonious mix of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance influences throughout the city. The cultural experiences in Passau are deeply rooted in its history as a significant medieval trading center and ecclesiastical hub.

A visit to Passau should include exploring St. Stephen's Cathedral, home to one of the world's largest cathedral organs. The Veste Oberhaus fortress provides stunning views of the city and houses a museum that delves into the region's history. The Old Town, with its narrow alleys and colorful buildings, is a testament to the city's architectural evolution. The Glass Museum offers a unique insight into the art of glassmaking, showcasing an extensive collection from the past centuries. For a cultural immersion, attending a concert or event at the Passau State Theatre is a must. Additionally, a stroll along the riverside promenades or a boat tour offers a different perspective of the city's historical landscape.

What's the best way to get around as a tourist in Passau?

Passau is a compact city with a charming old town, making it ideal for exploring on foot. The cityscape, with its narrow streets and picturesque views, encourages walking as a primary mode of transportation. Public transportation is available, though the city does not have a metro system. Buses serve as the main form of local transit, connecting various parts of the city. Cycling is also a viable option due to the city's size and the presence of bike-friendly paths.

In Passau, the pedestrian-friendly old town is perfect for walking, with many streets closed to vehicle traffic, allowing for leisurely exploration of shops, cafes, and historical sites. The local bus network, operated by Stadtwerke Passau, offers routes that cover the city and surrounding areas, with day tickets available for unlimited travel. Ride-sharing services like Uber are not prevalent, but local taxi services can be accessed via phone or app. For cyclists, the Donau Cycle Path provides scenic routes along the river, and bike rentals are available from shops such as Fahrradverleih Passau. Practical tips include checking the bus schedule ahead of time, as services may be less frequent in the evenings and on weekends, and considering a combination of walking and public transport for the most efficient exploration of the city.

All sights sorted by distance from center

1 St. Stephen's Cathedral: ⭐ ⭐ Home to the world's largest cathedral organ, St. Stephen's Cathedral boasts stunning architecture and breathtaking interiors. Its baroque design and the panoramic views of Passau it offers make it a must-visit. Distance in km: 2.62
2 Passau Old Town: ⭐ ⭐ The Old Town of Passau, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, is a picturesque area that showcases the city's rich history and culture. It's a vibrant place where past and present meet. Distance in km: 2.84
3 The Passau Glass Museum: ⭐ ⭐ Featuring one of the world's largest collections of Bohemian glass, the Passau Glass Museum showcases over 30,000 pieces of glass art, highlighting the region's significant contribution to glassmaking. Distance in km: 2.84
4 Veste Oberhaus: ⭐ ⭐ Overlooking Passau from a hilltop, Veste Oberhaus is a fortress that dates back to 1219. It offers a museum, beautiful views of the city, and the convergence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Distance in km: 3.13
5 Dreiflüsseeck: ⭐ The unique confluence of three rivers - the Danube, Inn, and Ilz - can be best viewed from Veste Oberhaus or the city's riverbanks. The differing colors of the rivers as they meet is a fascinating natural spectacle. Distance in km: 3.4
6 Ilz River: ⭐ The Ilz River offers scenic nature trails for hiking and walking. It's known for its dark, peaty water and the lush, green landscapes it flows through, making it a peaceful retreat into nature. Distance in km: 14.48
7 Bavarian Forest National Park: Germany's first national park, offering dense forests, wildlife, and hiking trails in a pristine natural environment. Distance in km: 47.03

Day plans for your trip

Day plan 1: Explore Passau's rich history and breathtaking views, from the world's largest cathedral organ at St. Stephen's to the panoramic vistas at Veste Oberhaus, with delightful Bavarian cuisine and charming streets in between.
St. Stephen's Cathedral
Home to the world's largest cathedral organ, this baroque masterpiece is a must-see.
Average length of stay 1 hour
Veste Oberhaus
This fortress offers stunning views of Passau and houses a museum showcasing the city's history.
2 hours
Café Simon
A perfect spot to relax and enjoy a coffee with a local pastry.
30 minutes
Food tip: Try the traditional Bavarian pastries.
Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus)
A beautiful historic building with a fascinating history and a picturesque location by the river.
30 minutes
Hollgasse
A charming street known for its art galleries and unique shops.
1 hour
Restaurant Bayerischer Löwe
A great place to enjoy authentic Bavarian cuisine in a cozy setting.
1 hour
Food tip: Order the Schweinshaxe (pork knuckle) for a traditional Bavarian meal.
St. Michael's Church
A beautiful baroque church with stunning frescoes and a peaceful atmosphere.
30 minutes
Inn Promenade
A scenic riverside walk offering beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere.
1 hour
Das Oberhaus
An excellent restaurant with a panoramic view of the city, perfect for a memorable dinner.
1.5 hours
Food tip: Try the local fish dishes, fresh from the nearby rivers.