Passau, often called the “City of Three Rivers,” offers an inviting mix of water, history, and culture. Its location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz makes it especially scenic, and the city’s compact size means you can experience a lot in a short time. Whether you’re interested in a relaxing boat trip through the Bavarian-Austrian Danube Valley or a quick, insider’s walk to uncover Passau’s hidden corners, there’s an experience for you. We particularly enjoy the Passau: Schleusentour nach Engelhartszell, a four-hour boat adventure that offers immersive views of the river landscape, water gates, and the idyllic Engelhartszell. It’s a gentle way to escape the busy streets and enjoy Passau’s natural beauty firsthand.
If you’re pressed for time but want a meaningful glimpse of the city, the Passau: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes is perfect. For the festive season, the Passau’s Christmas Magic: A Yuletide Private Tour offers a cozy, private holiday experience through the Old Town and charming markets. Here, we outline all three, so you can choose the best way to enjoy Passau based on your interests and schedule.
1. Passau: Schleusentour nach Engelhartszell
At number one, this river cruise to Engelhartszell ranks high for its scenic beauty and relaxing pace. For $35 per person, you’ll enjoy a 4-hour journey through the Bavarian-Austrian Danube Valley, passing the impressive Watergate Jochenstein and the quaint town of Engelhartszell. The trip offers a wonderful mix of natural landscapes and engineering marvels, including the famous water locks that demonstrate the engineering behind river navigation.
What sets this tour apart is its ability to combine scenic views with a peaceful boat ride—perfect for travelers who want to unwind while appreciating the Danube’s multifaceted landscape. The itinerary includes passes by scenic points, with a hop-on-hop-off stop at Jochenstein, giving you the flexibility to explore or simply relax onboard. The boat departs from Anlegestelle A11 – Wurm & Noé, and the experience provides a slow-paced, immersive look at the river’s natural beauty.
This tour appeals most to those who enjoy nature, quiet waterways, and a laid-back day on the water. It’s a good value for the price, considering the rich scenery and the chance to see the river from a different perspective. The only potential downside is the limited duration—if you’re craving in-depth exploration of the towns, you might want a longer stay.
Bottom line: A relaxing, scenic cruise that immerses you in Passau’s river landscape and offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle.
2. Passau: Express Walk with a Local in 60 minutes
For travelers who want a quick yet authentic taste of Passau, the Express Walk with a Local is an excellent choice. For around 1 to 2 hours, you’ll explore the city’s core with a local guide, uncovering its most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. The walk starts at Nibelungenplatz and includes visits to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, famous for its impressive pipe organ, and the Passau Town Hall, which showcases the city’s baroque architecture.
What makes this tour stand out is the local host’s insider knowledge, offering tips on the best cafes, bars, and spots to experience Passau like a native. The guide’s perspective turns a simple walk into a lively conversation about the city’s local culture and history, making the experience both informative and personal. Because the group is limited to 8 people, it remains intimate and flexible, allowing for spontaneous questions and tailored suggestions.
This walk is ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who still want a meaningful introduction to Passau. While it doesn’t go into exhaustive detail, it covers key highlights efficiently, making it a smart choice for those who want to maximize their short time in town. Some may find the brief duration a bit rushed if they’re eager for in-depth exploration, but for many, this is a perfect, brisk insight.
Bottom line: A quick, fun way to see Passau’s top sights and get local tips in under two hours.
3. Passau’s Christmas Magic: A Yuletide Private Tour
If visiting Passau during the holiday season, the Christmas Magic tour offers a cozy, personalized way to soak up the festive atmosphere. For $525 per group up to 2 people, you get a private guide who takes you through the town’s most enchanting spots, including the Domplatz Christmas Market, the Old Town, and the scenic Three-river confluence.
This two-hour walking experience emphasizes seasonal cheer, traditional crafts, and the town’s historic charm. You’ll visit key sites like the Stadtpfarrkirche St. Paul and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, enjoying their Christmas decor and tranquil ambiance. The tour is designed to capture the spirit of Passau during the holidays, with plenty of time for photos and soaking in the seasonal magic. The private aspect allows for customizations—your guide can share local stories, favorite holiday treats, or quiet moments at scenic viewpoints.
Ideal for couples or small groups who want an exclusive holiday experience, this tour provides a warm, intimate way to celebrate the season. The only drawback is the price, which might seem steep for solo travelers or larger groups—though it’s a fair deal for a private, personalized experience.
Bottom line: A delightful, intimate Christmas experience, perfect for couples or small groups seeking festive charm and historical insights.
How to Choose
When deciding between these tours, consider your interests and schedule. If you love peaceful nature and scenic river landscapes, the Schleusentour nach Engelhartszell offers a relaxing day on the water. For a quick, enriching overview of Passau’s highlights, the Express Walk is practical and personal. If holiday cheer is your goal, the Christmas Magic private tour makes for a memorable seasonal experience.
Booking early is recommended, especially for holiday tours, and consider your physical comfort and time constraints. For instance, if you’re tight on time but eager to see the main sights, the short walking tour is perfect. Conversely, if you want to unwind and enjoy the river scenery, the boat trip delivers a peaceful retreat.
Final Thoughts
Passau offers diverse ways to experience its waterways, charming streets, and festive spirit. For a relaxed river adventure, the Schleusentour nach Engelhartszell is hard to beat. When pressed for time, the Express Walk makes sure you see the highlights without feeling rushed. During the holidays, the Christmas Magic tour offers a cozy, private way to celebrate the season.
No matter which you choose, each experience provides a different glimpse into Passau’s special character. Whether you prefer scenic water trips, lively city walks, or holiday festivities, booking ahead ensures you’ll secure your spot. These tours highlight the best of what Passau has to offer—trusted, well-reviewed options that make your visit memorable.