On Donaustraße
The Danube Route is one of the most beautiful panoramic routes in Europe, combining impressive nature with cultural and historical highlights. This convertible route takes you along the second longest river on the continent, offering spectacular landscapes, charming towns, and picturesque vineyards.
As you follow the Danube with the top down, fascinating scenery accompanies you: from the Three Rivers city of Passau to the famous Schlögen Loop, all the way to the Wachau, one of Austria's most charming wine regions. This convertible journey promises a mix of relaxed driving moments, historic locations, and culinary experiences.
The road itself is pleasant to drive and mostly follows well-maintained routes. It winds through gentle hilly landscapes and often follows the river closely, providing breathtaking views time and again. Especially in spring and autumn, when the light bathes the landscape in warm colors, this route is a dream for convertible drivers.
Whether it's a short weekend trip or an extended pleasure tour – the Danube Route is a convertible tour that perfectly combines nature, culture, and driving fun.
The Highlights of the Danube Route
1st Stage: Passau to Linz – Between River and History
The convertible tour begins in Passau, the city of three rivers. From the viewpoint at the Three Rivers Corner, you have a great view of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz.
From here, you follow the Danube downstream towards Austria. A highlight of this stage is the Schlögen Loop, a spectacular bend in the river that is particularly impressive from a viewpoint.
Upon arriving in Linz, you can stroll along the Danube promenade or take a detour to Pöstlingberg.
2nd Stage: Linz to Melk – Pure Culture and Nature
The convertible road trip continues through the Upper Austrian Danube Valley, a region with numerous castles and vineyards. A stop in Grein, one of the oldest cities on the Danube, is worthwhile.
An absolute highlight is the imposing Melk Abbey, perched high above the Danube and considered one of the most beautiful Baroque monasteries in Europe.
3rd Stage: Melk to Vienna – The Wachau and the Grand Finale
The arguably most beautiful stretch leads through the Wachau, a UNESCO World Heritage site with idyllic vineyards and picturesque villages like Dürnstein.
After this scenic passage, you finally reach Vienna, the impressive Austrian capital. Here your convertible tour ends – perhaps with a walk through the Prater or a visit to the famous Café Central.
Highlights of the Convertible Route
- Three Rivers Corner Passau – Spectacular view of the three rivers Danube, Inn, and Ilz
- Schlögen Loop – Impressive river bend with viewpoint
- Linz – Modern art city with historical center
- Grein – Picturesque town with the oldest preserved theater stage in Austria
- Melk Abbey – Baroque monastery with stunning views of the Danube
- Wachau – Vineyards, castles, and romantic spots along the river
- Dürnstein – Famous ruin where Richard the Lionheart was held captive
- Tulln – Garden city with Roman history
- Vienna's Prater – Historic amusement park with a Ferris wheel
- Vienna – The cultural finale with imperial flair
Tips for Your Convertible Tour
The Danube Route is a perfect route for connoisseurs. It is not particularly challenging to drive, but it offers many great stops and panoramas.
The best time to travel is in spring or autumn when nature is especially appealing. In summer, it can get very warm along the Danube, so you should plan your sunny days well.
Allow enough time for sightseeing and culinary breaks. The Wachau is known for its wines – ideal for tasting (of course, only with a driver change). In Vienna, you can conclude your convertible tour leisurely with a classic Wiener Schnitzel or a Sachertorte.
With the Convertible on the Danube Route
The Danube Route uniquely combines nature, culture, and driving fun. With a mix of historic towns, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary highlights, it is an ideal route for a multi-day convertible tour.
