Passau in Autumn – Culture, Cuisine & Hotel Tips
Why Passau is especially worth visiting in autumn
Passau in autumn has a magic all its own. The summer crowds are gone. Passau belongs to the locals again—and to you. The air is clear, and in the morning, wisps of fog rise from the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Golden leaves drift on the water. The old town seems bathed in a soft, warm light.
Right now, you can feel the city's rhythm. You can stroll leisurely through the alleys, raise your head, and admire the baroque facades. And along the way, you have time to chat with shopkeepers or café owners – something that often goes unnoticed in the summer.
Stroll through the old town with golden accents
My tip: Start at St. Stephen's Cathedral. It towers over the Residenzplatz. Inside, the world's largest cathedral organ resonates, with almost 18.000 pipes – an experience that will get under your skin.
Just a few steps further, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets begins, home to small boutiques, galleries, and craft shops. Three Rivers Corner You can see how the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers converge. In autumn, the colors are more intense.
You should linger here for a moment. Take a deep breath. Enjoy the view of the water, and forget about everyday life for a while.
Culinary delights in golden autumn
Passau is a paradise for connoisseurs. In traditional inns like the "To the old brewery"You can get game dishes from the surrounding forests. Pumpkin soup with roasted seeds is now on the menu almost everywhere. Accompany it with a glass of wine from Lower Bavaria or a freshly tapped beer from a small brewery.
In the afternoon, the cafés beckon. I can especially recommend the "Café Simon“—famous for warm apple strudel with vanilla sauce. When it's cool outside, it tastes twice as good.
Autumn events & markets in Passau and surrounding areas
October brings harvest festivals, farmers' markets and craft markets. At the monastery market in Engelszell Abbey, just 45 minutes away, you can buy cheese, honey, and liqueurs directly from the producer. Brass bands often play along with them.
Plan your visit to experience one of these markets. They're ideal for sampling regional specialties and chatting with the producers.
Wellness & relaxation after an eventful day
After a day on cobblestones, a break is good. Many Passau hotels have their own saunas or small wellness areas. Hotel King* (advertisement) you can even relax with a view of the Danube. Those who prefer larger facilities can go to the Bad Füssing thermal baths or in the Bad Griesbach thermal baths – both can be reached in less than an hour.
Especially on cool autumn days, such a conclusion is the perfect end.
Excursions around Passau for autumn
The Ilz Valley is a sea of color in autumn. Yellow, orange, and red are reflected in the water. Easy hiking trails also lead along the river.
The Bavarian Forest is only half an hour away. There, the Lusen National Park Center with treetop walk and the Frauenau Glass Museum.
And if you fancy a little trip abroad, you can reach the baroque town of Schärding in Upper Austria in 20 minutes. It's ideal for an afternoon coffee in the town square.
Hotels for your autumn trip to Passau
I have stayed in Passau several times and carefully selected these hotels based on location, comfort, and service:
Hotel Residenz Passau – directly on the Danube, just a few steps from the old town. Ideal for riverside strolls.
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IBB Hotel Passau Süd – with a wellness area, good breakfast, and a perfect location for excursions into the surrounding area.
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Art Hotel & Hostel – charming, central, creative ambiance. Perfect for budget travelers with style.
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Conclusion – Your golden weekend in Passau
Passau in autumn is definitely a city to breathe deeply. The colors, the tranquility, and the special light make it unique. You can experience culture, enjoy regional cuisine, and relax in wellness oases.
Whether as a romantic short trip or an enjoyable city break – autumn is the best time to experience Passau from its golden side.
Frequently asked questions about Passau in autumn
What is the best time to visit Passau in autumn?
The months from September to early November are ideal for this. The weather is usually mild, and the leaves turn golden. It's also quieter than in summer.
Is St. Stephen's Cathedral worth visiting even without an organ concert?
Yes. The architecture alone is impressive. But if possible, you should definitely plan an organ concert—the sound is unforgettable.
Are there good options for regional cuisine in Passau?
Absolutely. In addition to traditional inns, there are also modern restaurants that creatively interpret regional ingredients. In autumn, game, pumpkin, and mushrooms are at the top of the menu.
Can you experience a lot in Passau without a car?
Yes. The old town is within walking distance. Many sights are also close together. For excursions, there are buses, trains, or excursion boats.
Which excursions are particularly nice in autumn?
The Ilz Valley, the Bavarian Forest, and the baroque town of Schärding are perfect. Nature is vibrant, and the small towns are cozy.
Which hotels have the best view of the Danube?
Both the Hotel Residenz Passau and the Hotel König offer rooms with direct river views. This is especially magical in the morning when fog hangs over the water.
Are there any special autumn events in Passau?
Yes, there are harvest festivals, farmers' markets, and regional food events in October. Dates vary, so it's worth checking the city's events calendar.
Author: Monika Fuchs, travel journalist and founder of TravelWorldOnline – traveling in Europe’s gourmet regions for 20+ years.
More things to know
- Top Restaurants in Passau, Germany: A Culinary Guide
- Day trip from Passau: Excursion destinations in the surrounding area
- Two Christmas Markets in Bavaria - Altötting and Passau
- Autumn travel
- City breaks in autumn – culture, cuisine & charming hotels
- Food and Travel Blog for Slow Travellers
Source: own on-site research. Some of the trips to the destinations were organized independently; others were supported by the local tourism authorities. We are very grateful for this. However, our opinions remain, as always, our own.
Text: © Copyright Monika Fuchs as well TWO
Photos: © Copyright Monika Fuchs and TWO
