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Situated in eastern Bavaria, near the border with Austria, Passau is a compact, walkable city celebrated for its Gothic and baroque architecture and its laid-back vibe. It's sometimes referred to as the Venice of Bavaria, due to its location on the Danube River, where the Inn and Ilz rivers converge. While you won’t find canals filled with gondolas in this little city, you will find plenty of things to do in Passau—in the compact, walkable old town (Altstadt) and beyond.
If good weather is your main priority, you're best off visiting Passau in July or August, when high temperatures hover around 73°F (23°C). Fairs, concerts, and other events take place throughout the warmer season, from spring until early autumn. Visit in December and you'll experience chilly winter weather, yes, but also numerous Christmas markets where you can warm up with a cup of mulled wine.
Passau is incredibly pedestrian-friendly, with a compact, walkable old town that makes getting around on foot a breeze, and Danube cruise ships dock in the heart of town. The city and its surroundings are also well-linked by public transportation, with a network of 17 local bus lines serving the city, all of which are wheelchair-accessible. Taxis and rideshare services are also available.
For a typical Bavarian meal in the heart of the Aldstadt, make your way to Altes Bräuhaus, situated by the Prince Regent Luitpold Bridge. This no-frills spot serves up hearty, meat-forward dishes—think sausage and schnitzel—along with an extensive beer selection. It also offers lunch specials on weekdays, ideal for travelers looking for a hearty meal at budget prices.
Attractions 2 | Tours 30 | Reviews 19 |
Yes, it is worth visiting Passau, Germany. Passau is a beautiful, walkable city, with great tourism infrastructure. It’s also home to lovely Gothic and baroque architecture, particularly in the old town (Altstadt). You'll find one of the largest church pipe organs in the world inside St. Stephen's Cathedral.
...MorePassau is known for many things. It's home to the University of Passau, which means there's a large student population in the city. Travelers tend to come here to see Passau's many churches and historic buildings. Passau is also where the Danube meets the Inn and Ilz rivers.
...MoreIt’s a good idea to have two days in Passau, but you’ll still be able to experience many of the Bavarian city’s highlights in just one day, particularly if you join a tour. With two days, however, you’ll have enough time to slow down and take in the scenery at a leisurely pace.
...MorePassau is known for its Bavarian specialties, including sausages, pretzels, and schweinsbraten, Bavarian pork roast. The beer flows freely in Passau, with local breweries such as Hacklberg brewing up tasty beverages. If you come in November or December, stop by a Christmas market for some steaming hot glühwein (mulled wine).
...MoreWith one day in Passau, you can wander through the old town and along the banks of the Danube River, try out some local specialties, and visit attractions such as Veste Oberhaus. Don't miss St. Stephen's Cathedral in the heart of town—it houses one of the world's largest church organs.
...MorePassau's top attractions center around its old town (Altstadt) and include its town hall and Höllgasse, an artist's alley lined with galleries. Aldstadt is also home to St. Stephen's Cathedral, which houses one of the largest church organs in the world. Other highlights include Veste Oberhaus and Mariahilf Monastery.
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