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Cycling in Austria

Flower-filled meadows, sparkling blue lakes and snow-capped mountains – Austria's beauty is truly awe-inspiring. And with hundreds of miles of well-marked, inviting trails through some of the most pristine natural environments in Europe, it's a paradise for cyclists of all abilities.

Our handpicked regions of Salzkammergut, the Danube and   wonderfully combine the Alps, scenic lakes, and historical towns and villages to provide a breath-taking experience of cycling Austria.

See the best of the country on a cycling tour in Austria

Austria is a great country to tour by bike. Whether you want to challenge yourself on a mountain ascent, cruise along the Danube or whizz through terraced vineyards, there are plenty of gorgeous vistas to enjoy.

Off-road, you can immerse yourself in the magical splendour of Salzburg, with its Baroque palaces and Renaissance gardens. And because our cycling trips in Austria are self-guided, you're free to make impromptu stops to wander through a pretty village, peek inside a 15th-century church or enjoy lunch at a lakeside restaurant.

Our Austria cycling routes are expertly researched. We give you detailed maps as well as access to our navigation app, so you can go at your own pace.

We hand-pick the best accommodation for you. Whether that's an old coaching inn, a family-run B&B or a luxury four-star hotel, you'll enjoy the same warm hospitality and delicious traditional cuisine − not to mention the local fine wines.

Our cycling trips in Austria include a complimentary Headwater bike for your exclusive use. You have the option to upgrade to an electric bike, which will make light work of any hills and leave you free to take in the spectacular panoramas.

What can I see while biking in Austria?

Salzburg

Salzburg is truly beautiful and is also where the majority of The Sound of Music was set. But it has more than one claim to fame: it was also the birthplace of Mozart.

The Old Town is well worth a wander; fine examples of medieval and Baroque architecture can be found here. You can visit Mozart's Residence and the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the latter of which was built by an Archbishop of Salzburg as a residence for the secret mistress the Pope wouldn't allow him to marry. Nearby, there's also Hellbrunn Palace with its fun trick fountains.

Lake Constance

The lakeside paths of Lake Constance are a breeze for cycling, and the paths take in Austria, Switzerland and Germany. There are many lakeside restaurants where you can stop to eat.

Take a short ferry ride over to the twin castles of Meersburg, the oldest inhabited castle in Germany. Eat in the Baroque hall or enjoy the atmosphere of the castle tavern in the garden. The terrace offers spectacular views of the lake and mountains.

Vienna

Baroque and Gothic architecture can be found in abundant supply in Vienna, as can coffee and the traditional chocolate cake Sachertorte.

Tour the State Opera House, where there is a full schedule of over 60 operas and ballets each season. World-class artists regularly dominate the stage.

See the Hofburg Palace, once a royal residence that now houses the Imperial Treasury Museum as well as the Austrian National Library. Schönbrunn Palace is another impressive location to visit during your cycling holiday in Austria. It's so impressive that it has been on the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites since 1996. A vast park stretches out in front of the building, characterised by tree-lined avenues and manicured lawns and flowerbeds.

 

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Cycling from Vienna to Budapest
Austria / Slovakia / Hungary: The Danube

Cycling from Vienna to Budapest

Enjoy meandering rides along the Danube river and through 3 iconic cities - from Vienna in Austria, through Bratislava in Slovakia and on to Budapest in Hungary. The cycling is mostly along the river through small villages and nature reserves but the real highlights are the stunning architecture.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeC07VB
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided cycling
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2030per person, tour only

  • 37 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Bike hire included
  • Navigation app provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Lake Constance Cycling
Austria / Germany / Switzerland: Lake Constance

Lake Constance Cycling

Looking for a holiday where relaxing cycling effortlessly intertwines with nature, culture, delightful cuisine, refreshing swims, and historic sights? Your dream trip is here! Our Lake Constance Cycling trip guides you through picturesque towns, vineyards, and captivating historic sites in Germany, Switzerland, and Austria. Indulge in local treats, dip into turquoise waters, and embrace vibrant events.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeC10LC
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided cycling
  • Duration10 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2960per person, tour only

  • 80 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Bike hire included
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Cycling the Lakes and Rivers of the Salzkammergut
Austria: Salzburg

Cycling the Lakes and Rivers of the Salzkammergut

Explore Austria's Salzkammergut on a cycling adventure through crystal clear lakes, alpine villages, and lush meadows. Explore the historic depth of Bad Ischl and the charming town of Gmunden, surrounded by majestic Alpine peaks. Savour local culinary treasures and immerse yourself in the captivating natural beauty and rich history of the region.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeC06SK
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided cycling
  • Duration6 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1820per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • Breakfasts daily (HB compulsory between 26 Jun & 3 Sep inclusive)
  • Bike hire included
  • Navigation app provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Cycling along the Danube from Passau to Vienna
Austria: The Danube

Cycling along the Danube from Passau to Vienna

Follow the curves and bends of the Danube as it flows through steep-sided valleys and wide riverside woods towards beautiful Vienna. The densely wooded slopes and ravine forests help to create the setting for one of the most significant river landscapes of Central Europe; with the largely flat landscape perfectly suited to self-guided cycling. You will pass many delightful castles, ruins and abbeys whilst visiting historic towns such as Linz, Melk and Krems. The final destination of Vienna is the perfect place to explore, enjoy some great food and perhaps take in a concert.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeC07LA
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided cycling
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$1925per person, tour only

  • 15 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Bike hire included
  • Navigation app provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Highlights of Lake Constance by bike
Austria / Germany / Switzerland: Lake Constance

Highlights of Lake Constance by bike

Explore Lake Constance by bike on gentle cycling trails, stopping for lunches at waterfront restaurants and discovering some of the cultural and historic highlights of this region, staying in Austria, Switzerland and Germany.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeC07LC
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided cycling
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2180per person, tour only

  • 19 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All breakfasts
  • Bike hire included
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Passau to Vienna Cycling
Austria: Carinthia

Passau to Vienna Cycling

This is a gentle linear route following the course of the River Danube. Some of the highlights of this 10-night holiday include Passau 'City of Three Rivers', medieval Linz, the UNESCO Wachau Valley, and Benedictine Melk.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeC10PA
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided cycling
  • Duration10 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2900per person, tour only

  • 74 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts
  • Bike hire included
  • Navigation app provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Five Lakes Cycling
Austria: Salzburg

Five Lakes Cycling

Experience the enchanting Austrian lakes district on this cycling holiday through Salzkammergut. Roam idyllic alpine villages and serene blue lakes. Begin your journey in Salzburg, Mozart's hometown, pedalling along the scenic Salzach river to Mondsee. Explore Attersee, the region's largest lake, and be captivated by the charm of Lake Wolfgangsee. Discover UNESCO-listed Hallstatt and St Wolfgang, immersing yourself in rich history, and explore the Imperial past of Bad Ischl. Stay in carefully selected unique 4-star hotels, where luxury seamlessly blends with Austrian traditions.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeC07SL
  • Holiday typeSelf-guided cycling
  • Duration7 nights, hotel-to-hotel
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2960per person, tour only
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts
  • Bike hire included
  • Navigation app provided
  • Luggage transfers between hotels
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)
Austrian Lakes Activities
Austria: Salzburg

Austrian Lakes Activities

Stay in a luxury 4-star hotel with a top-of-the-range wellness centre and choose from a host of activities: walking, cycling (route notes for both provided), water sports, boat trips, and ice caves. Complimentary Headwater bikes are included for the duration of your stay.

DEPARTURE MONTHS

JFMAMJJASOND

  • Holiday codeM07SZ
  • Holiday typeMulti activity holiday
  • Duration7 nights, single centre
  • Activity level
  • Excellent for
  • From US$2540per person, tour only

  • 67 Reviews
  • All accommodation
  • All continental breakfasts
  • Bike hire included
  • Headwater navigation provided
  • Flights from London (if booking incl. flights)

    Cycling Holidays in Austria

    Overall customer rating, based on 295 reviews

Frequently asked questions

Is Austria good for cycling?

As with many other countries in mainland Europe, Austria is very well set up for cycling. Cycle paths tend to be maintained well and signposted clearly .

Wherever your biking holiday takes you in Austria, you're sure to enjoy the vast natural beauty the country is known for. Whether you're more one for flat paths and scenic horizons or steep, challenging rides through rugged landscapes, Austria has routes that are perfect for you.

Which cycle route is best in Austria?

It depends on what kind of cycling you're looking for! The Danube cycle path is exceptionally beautiful and runs through Austria and seven other countries. As you follow the banks of the Danube, you'll pass scores of beautiful monasteries, abbeys, castles and friendly villages with traditional marketplaces.

Most sections (including the Austrian segment) of this cycle path are relatively flat, meaning you can focus more on the sights and sounds around you.

What are the most beautiful cycle tours in Austria?

All our self-guided Austria bike tours have been planned so you can experience some of the most stunning locations the country has to offer.

If you'd like to make the most of the Alpine scenery in Austria, it's worth having a look at one of the cycling tours in the Salzkammergut region. This is the Lake District of Austria, so you'll spend a lot of time biking on calm lakeside paths and enjoying the amazing mountain views. You may even have the option to take the cog railway up to the top of Mount Schafberg.

What should I pack for my cycling holiday in Austria?

Bring a practical backpack that you can comfortably wear while cycling. In your backpack, carry all the daily essentials. An insect repellent with Deet is highly recommended, as tick bites can be nasty. As you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, don't forget sun protection and sunglasses either.

It's wise to carry some travel money with you, as cash is still the preferred way to pay in Austria. And we recommend you bring a small first aid kit as your cycling holiday in Austria will be self-guided.

A portable charger can also help you ensure your phone stays topped up while you're on the road, allowing you to take as many pictures as you like.

What should I wear for my Austrian cycling holiday?

You should bring clothes you can comfortably cycle in, as well as something to relax in at your lodgings in the evenings.

Cycling shorts or trousers will serve you well, as will a windproof and waterproof jacket, a headband, sports socks and cycling shoes. Don't forget to pack your swimming gear if you plan on taking a dip anywhere too.

What is the best month to bike in Austria?

May-October usually offers the most favourable conditions for biking in Austria. The temperature sits usually comfortably in the 20-25°C range during this time, though it is sometimes higher. The lowlands have hot summers and cold winters, particularly towards the south. The mountainous regions have a cooler climate than other parts of the country, and the west is milder year-round but with more rain.

Why choose Headwater for your cycling holiday in Austria?

We've spent almost 40 years crafting exciting, action-packed itineraries for our travellers, so you can rely on us to provide a self-guided Austria cycling tour you'll remember. Book online today and start getting ready for your excursion. Here are a few reasons why you can have confidence in us:

  • Happy customers - We've earned the trust of many satisfied customers, as evidenced by our great rating on Feefo.

  • Exciting destinations - Our cycling tours in Austria are designed to ensure you see the best of what the country has to offer.

  • We can arrange your flights - Sorting flights can feel like a hassle. But you can always opt for a deal that includes them, so we'll take that off your hands!

  • Award-winning provider - The quality of our activity holidays has earned us recognition. We have received awards that include the title of 'Best Travel Company to Central/Western Europe' from the British Travel Awards.

  • A sustainability focus - We're working towards becoming Nature Net Positive, as the impact of tourism on the environment has been overlooked for too long. We operate all holidays in line with our People, Places & Planet plan.

  • ABTA and ATOL-protected - For your peace of mind, our trips are fully protected. Read more to find out about your key rights.

  • Helping communities - The communities our tours operate in are important to us. For this reason, we've set up the Exodus Travels Foundation. Through this initiative, we contribute to conservation causes and disaster relief.
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