The Best Routes and Trails To Explore While Cycling Through Austria

Austria is a country of stunning landscapes, ranging from its lush valleys to majestic alpine mountains. Known for its outdoor lifestle, Austria is a haven for cyclists, with an extensive network of well-maintained cycling paths and scenic routes that wind through the scenic routes through country’s most beautiful regions for both seasoned cyclists and casual riders, cycling through Austria provides a unique way to explore the country’s natural beauty, rich history, and charming villages.

This guide covers some of Austria's top cycling routes and trails. From the Danube’s peaceful riverside paths to the alpine mountain trails, these routes offer diverse experiences for cyclists of all levels.

1. The Danube Cycle Path (Donauradweg)

One of Austria's most famous and popular cycling routes is the Danube Cycle Path, also known as the Donauradweg. This route runs along the Danube River, from the German border in Passau to the border with Hungary in the east. The Austrian section of the path is particularly scenic, offering a peaceful ride through charming villages, vineyards, and rolling hills, all while following the river’s tranquil waters.

Key Highlights of the Danube Cycle Path:

• Vienna to Krems: One of the most popular sections of the path is the stretch between Vienna and Krems. This scenic ride takes you through the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its terraced vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles.
• Melk Abbey: Cycling through the Wachau also allows you to visit Melk Abbey, one of Austria’s most impressive baroque buildings, perched on a hill overlooking the river.
• Peaceful Riversides: The route offers plenty of opportunities to stop and relax by the riverbanks, swim, or enjoy the serenity of the Danube.

2. The Alpe Adria Cycle Path

The Alpe Adria Cycle Path is a must for those who enjoy a challenge and love scenic mountain routes. This route stretches from the Austrian Alps to the Adriatic Sea, covering a distance of around 410 kilometres. The path takes you through diverse landscapes, including mountain villages, lush valleys, and the famous wine-growing region of Friuli Venezia Giulia in Italy.

Key Highlights of the Alpe Adria Cycle Path:

• Villach to Tarvisio: Starting in the charming town of Villach, this part of the route takes you through the beautiful Gail Valley, offering panoramic views of the Alps.
• Karawanken Mountains: The route crosses the Karawanken Mountains, where you’ll cycle through tunnels and over bridges, all while enjoying awe-inspiring views of the surrounding mountains.
• Friuli Venezia Giulia: After crossing the border into Italy, the path takes you through the Friuli Venezia Giulia region, known for its vineyards, charming towns, and beautiful countryside.

3. The Inn Cycle Path

The Inn Cycle Path follows the course of the River Inn from the Swiss border to the Bavarian region in Germany. The Austrian part of the route is particularly scenic, passing through Tyrol, one of Austria’s most beautiful regions. The path is mostly flat, making it ideal for beginners or those looking for a more leisurely ride.

Key Highlights of the Inn Cycle Path:

• Innsbruck: The capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck, is a great place to start or end your cycle journey. Surrounded by towering mountains, this vibrant city offers a mix of historic buildings, modern amenities, and outdoor activities.
• Alpine Views: As you cycle through Tyrol, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the snow-capped Alps, making for a scenic cycling experience.
• Charming Villages: The route takes you through quaint villages, such as Rattenberg, famous for its glass-making traditions and medieval buildings.

The Inn Cycle Path offers easy access to the region’s attractions, including the nearby Stubai Valley and the Zillertal Alps, making it an ideal cycling destination.

4. The Salzkammergut Cycle Path

The Salzkammergut region is known for its stunning lakes, quaint towns, and beautiful mountain views. The Salzkammergut Cycle Path takes you through this delightful region, allowing you to experience the serene beauty of Austria’s lakes and forests while cycling along peaceful, flat roads.

Key Highlights of the Salzkammergut Cycle Path:

• Lake Wolfgang: Cycling along Lake Wolfgang offers stunning views of the water, surrounded by lush hills and mountains. The route passes through charming towns like St. Gilgen and Strobl, where you can stop for a refreshing swim or a meal at a lakeside café.
• Bad Ischl: Known for its imperial history, Bad Ischl is a lovely spa town and a great place to take a break from cycling. The city was once the summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I and is home to several historic buildings.
• Lake Hallstatt: The Salzkammergut Cycle Path also takes you past Lake Hallstatt, one of Austria’s most photographed and beautiful lakes. The village of Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Heritage site and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

The Salzkammergut region offers further exploration opportunities, including the stunning Dachstein Mountains and the historic salt mines of Hallstatt.

5. The Mühlviertel Cycle Path

For those seeking a unique cycling experience, the Mühlviertel Cycle Path in Upper Austria offers a peaceful, rural ride through the rolling hills and forests of the Mühlviertel region. The route is less crowded than other cycle paths in Austria, making it perfect for those who prefer a quieter, more relaxed ride.

Key Highlights of the Mühlviertel Cycle Path:

• Rural Charm: The route takes you through small villages, forests, and farmlands, offering a taste of rural Austrian life. The quiet paths and beautiful scenery make for a calm and reflective ride.
• The Danube-Mühlviertel: The path also connects to the Danube Cycle Path, allowing you to combine a ride through the Mühlviertel region with the famous Danube River views.
• Historical Sites: Along the route, you’ll come across charming old towns, castles, and historical sites, including the medieval village of Freistadt.

You can explore more of the Mühlviertel region before or after your cycling adventure. Visit the historic towns of Linz and Steyr, both located nearby.

6. The Zillertal Cycle Path

Nestled in the heart of Tyrol, The Zillertal Cycle Path ranks among Austria’s most popular cycling routes. It takes you through the Zillertal Valley, famous for its alpine landscapes, traditional villages, and outdoor activities. The path follows the course of the Ziller River, offering cyclists incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

Key Highlights of the Zillertal Cycle Path:

• Mountain Views: Cycling through the valley offers breathtaking views of the Zillertal Alps, showcasing snow-capped peaks and lush green meadows.
• Traditional Villages: The path leads through charming villages like Mayrhofen and Zell am Ziller, where you can stop for a meal or enjoy a relaxing break in a traditional Tyrolean inn.
• Adventure Activities: The Zillertal Valley is not just about cycling – it’s also a hub for outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and mountain biking, making it the perfect destination for adventure lovers.

You can explore the wider Tyrol region, including the nearby Ötztal Valley and the resort town of Seefeld, before or after cycling along the Zillertal Cycle Path.

Rent a Car in Austria

Austria’s cycling routes offer a great way to explore the country’s natural beauty, charming villages, and rich cultural heritage. However, the key to a truly memorable cycling trip is flexibility – and renting a car in Austria provides just that. By renting a car, you can easily reach the starting points of Austria’s most scenic cycling routes, carry your bike with you, and explore areas off the beaten track that may not be easily accessible by public transport.

Why Rent a Car in Austria?

• Flexibility: With a rental car, you can choose your route, explore remote areas, and stop at interesting places.
• Comfort: Renting a car ensures you travel comfortably, especially after a long day of cycling. You can store your gear in the car, take breaks whenever you like, and visit multiple routes in one trip.
• Convenience: Renting a car provides easy access to cycling path starting points, especially in rural areas where public transport is scarce. It also allows you to visit nearby attractions after your cycling adventures.

Ready to start your cycling journey through Austria? Book your car rental today with Finalrentals and explore Austria’s most scenic cycling routes at your own pace.

Austria’s cycling routes offer diverse landscapes, from the peaceful Danube riverbanks to the rugged alpine terrain. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride through vineyards or a challenging mountain path, there’s a cycling route for every level of cyclist. Renting a car is the perfect way to explore the country’s cycling paths and beyond, allowing you to visit more regions, discover hidden gems, and enjoy a memorable cycling adventure.

So, grab your helmet, pack your gear, and get ready to cycle through Austria’s most scenic routes. Your adventure awaits!