Experience Passau Photo by Lukas Seitz at Unsplash
We want to experience Passau and discover what the city and its surroundings have to offer.
Arriving in the Three Rivers City
On a sunny morning, we drive along the B12 toward Passau. The journey takes us past green hills and small villages. Even before we reach the city, we see the landscape opening up. The Danube shimmers between the trees. A few minutes later, the first towers of the old town appear. The view of the three rivers is our final welcome.
Location, history and atmosphere
Passau is located in southeastern Bavaria. Here you will find Danube, Inn and Ilz This special location makes the city a gateway to Austria and the Czech Republic. Linz For example, it's only an hour's drive away. Regensburg can also be reached in less than two hours.
Passau's history dates back to Roman times. Back then, the town was called "Batavis." After a devastating fire in 1662, Italian architects finally rebuilt the old town in the Baroque style. Today, these Baroque facades mingle with colorful houses, cozy cafés, and a lively student scene.
Experiencing Passau definitely means taking your time. The atmosphere is relaxed. We sense the Mediterranean flair in the squares. At the same time, the ringing of the church bells reminds us that we are in the heart of Bavaria.
First impressions of the old town, rivers and panorama
We park near the Danube promenade and walk into the old town. Cobblestones lead us through narrow alleys. Pastel-colored facades glow in the sun. On every corner, we discover small boutiques and cozy guesthouses.
At the Three Rivers Junction, we also see how the colors of the water blend. The green Inn flows into the blue Danube. The dark Ilz flows from the forests, bringing with it almost black water. This natural interplay is impressive.
From the Veste Oberhaus fortress, we also enjoy a sweeping view of the city. Rooftops, towers, and riverbeds stretch out before us. The wind carries the sound of the water up above. Down below, people sit at sidewalk cafés. We immediately sense: We could stay here.
Experience Passau and its surroundings
Passau is not only a beautiful travel destination. The city is also a perfect starting point for excursions into the surrounding area and neighboring countries. Boat trips on the Danube, for example, depart from here. Cyclists love the Danube Cycle Path, which runs directly through the city. Hikers, meanwhile, are drawn to the Ilz Valley or the Bavarian Forest. Excursions to Austria or the Czech Republic are also possible.
We enjoy returning to the old town every evening. After an excursion, good food and relaxing strolls along the rivers await. The walks are short, and the atmosphere changes with the light.
Preview: Sights, enjoyment, events and excursions
In these articles, we'll take you to the most beautiful places in Passau and the surrounding area. Discover Passau and its surroundings with these travel tips.
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- Day trip from Passau
- Two Christmas markets in Bavaria: Altötting and Passau
- The Quintana Museum in Künzing
The best hotels to experience Passau
If you want to experience Passau, you should definitely stay in a central location. Hotels in the old town allow you to reach all the highlights on foot. In the evening, you can simply step outside and be right on the Danube. Restaurants and bars are also nearby.
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We'll introduce you to our favorite hotels in our articles. These include charming boutique hotels, traditional guesthouses, and modern accommodations.
Conclusion: This is how you can experience Passau well
Passau combines history, nature, and enjoyment. The city of three rivers is both relaxed and lively. Those who stay here for a few days will experience a variety of excursions and enjoy evenings in atmospheric surroundings.
Questions and answers on how to experience Passau
When is the best time to travel to Passau?
Passau presents its most beautiful side year-round. In spring, for example, the riverside promenades bloom and invite you to stroll. In summer, however, the life along the rivers and in the squares beckons. Autumn offers golden light and quiet streets. In winter, the Christmas market enchants the old town with its festive atmosphere.
What is the best way to get to Passau?
Passau is easily accessible by car via the A3 or B12. There are also good train connections from Munich, Vienna, or Regensburg. Those coming from Austria can take a scenic route along the Danube. The old town is easily accessible on foot from the train station.
Where is the best place to park in Passau?
There are several centrally located parking garages in the Old Town. We often use the parking garage at Römerplatz because it's close to the Danube. For longer stays, there are also cheaper parking options outside, with bus connections. This way, you save money while still having short commutes.
Which sights should I not miss if I want to experience Passau?
St. Stephen's Cathedral, with the world's largest cathedral organ, is a must-see. Oberhaus Fortress also offers a magnificent view of the three rivers. At the Three Rivers Corner, for example, you can observe the unique coloration of the water. Narrow alleys, colorful facades, and cozy cafés round out your city stroll.
Can I easily explore Passau on foot?
Yes, the old town is compact and ideal for exploring on foot. We enjoy strolling along the river and spontaneously detouring down small streets. This way, you'll always find hidden spots and photo opportunities. However, for excursions into the surrounding area, you'll need a bike, car, or bus.
Which excursions are worthwhile from Passau?
From Passau, for example, day trips to the Bavarian Forest are particularly beautiful. Boat trips on the Danube will take you to Linz. The Danube Cycle Path also starts right in the city. You can also hike and enjoy nature in the Ilz Valley. Austria and the Czech Republic are within easy reach.
What culinary specialties are there in Passau?
We enjoy hearty Bavarian delicacies like roast pork or dumplings. On warm days, a cold beer in the beer garden tastes especially good. Homemade cakes and gateaux tempt you in the cafés. Along the Danube, there are also restaurants serving fresh fish and beautiful views.
Source: own on-site research. Some of the trips to the destinations were organized independently, while 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
