Wachau Valley Wine Tasting Bike Tour from Vienna

Ride the Danube, taste at two wineries, swim in the river

This 11-hour guided bike tour from Vienna takes you through the Wachau Valley along the Danube, stopping at Dürnstein and Weissenkirchen for wine tastings at small family-run wineries. You'll ride approximately 16 miles through Austrian countryside, see the blue tower of Stift Dürnstein and the fortress ruins where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned, and take a swim in the Danube. Train transport to and from the valley, bike rental, helmet, rain poncho and a professional English-speaking guide are included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Bike tour and wine tasting in Wachau Valley

• Start tour at Krems an der Donau
• Ride along Danube to Durnstein
• Visit Stift Dürnstein blue tower
• Explore Dürnstein fortress ruins
• Swim in the Danube river
• Ride to Weissenkirchen winery
• Enjoy second wine tasting

The Experience

The day starts with a train ride from Vienna to Krems an der Donau, a village built on wine production. From there you bike along the Danube to Dürnstein, a town of colorful houses and wine taverns where the iconic blue tower of Stift Dürnstein rises above the river. The route passes the fortress ruins of Dürnstein—the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was held prisoner—and continues to Weissenkirchen for a second wine tasting at a family-run winery. Along the way your guide explains why Austrian wine and schnapps rank among Europe's best.

The cycling distance is roughly 16 miles over the full day, and the terrain is easy enough for anyone with moderate fitness. You'll ride in all weather—the tour operates rain or shine—so a rain poncho is provided along with your helmet. Partway through, the route drops down to the Danube for a quick swim. Lunch at one of the local wine taverns costs €17 and is available in vegetarian options; you pay cash on the day. The tour wraps with a train ride back to Vienna.

What’s included

• Bike rental and helmet.
• rain poncho.
• professional English-speaking guide.
• two wine tastings at family-run wineries.
• train transport to and from Vienna.
• access to Dürnstein fortress ruins and Stift Dürnstein.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelPublic transport nearby

Operated by Vienna Explorer

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to bike and taste wine in one day starting from Vienna—the tour includes train transport to the valley, bike rental, and pre-arranged winery stops, so you only need to show up.

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Top questions

What's the bike route like between Krems and Dürnstein?

The route follows the Danube river through the Wachau Valley, passing through typical Austrian countryside with vineyards and small villages. The terrain is easy and the total cycling distance for the day is approximately 16 miles.

Can I swim in the Danube during the tour?

Yes, the tour includes a stop for a quick swim in the Danube river during the ride.

What wine tastings are included?

You'll have two wine tastings: one at a small family-run winery in Weissenkirchen and another stop where you learn about Austrian wine and schnapps production. Both are included in the tour price.

Is lunch included, and what are my options?

Lunch is available at one of the local wine taverns for €17, payable in cash on the day. Vegetarian options are provided.

What should I bring or wear for this tour?

Dress for the weather since the tour operates in all conditions. A helmet and rain poncho are provided. Bring cash if you want lunch at the tavern, and wear comfortable clothes suitable for biking and swimming.

Do I need to be an experienced cyclist?

No, the tour is designed for easy biking and requires only a moderate level of physical fitness. The guide leads the group at a comfortable pace through the Wachau Valley.