En Route from Prague to Vienna: A Day in the Life

Mario Koch

Europe | Austria, Czech Republic

Take a day—any day—on a B&R trip and you’ll experience a day like no other. That’s because wherever you find us exploring the world, you can be sure that our daily adventures offer a unique glimpse of the land, the culture, the cuisine and much more—all of which combine to create what many consider a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Fortunately, with B&R, we feel our travellers should live those experiences every time they entrust us to show them the world.

Consider, for example, a typical day on our Prague to Vienna Biking trip, a perfect introductory trip for those new to B&R. Easygoing biking and stunning countryside are just the beginning. We leave it to veteran guide and B&R trip designer Mario Koch to capture the essence of how the day unfolds:

7:23 am [for the early bird!]

Well, it’s not that early. Still, take the opportunity to sneak through the quiet alleyways of medieval Durnstein and make the quick hike up to the castle ruins that overlook the town and the Danube. Imagine yourself as Richard the Lionheart and take in the view.

8:45 am [for the later bird]

Your first glimpse of the day is a view of the wonderful flower gardens and the magnificent Danube. Head downstairs for a sumptuous breakfast of homemade local jams, freshly baked breads and other local specialties. Prepare for one of the best coffees you’ll ever have.

9:30 am

Suitably briefed by your guides, throw a leg over your bike and get ready to cruise the Donauradweg (Danube Bike Path) through some of the most orderly and picturesque towns you’ll ever get to ride. Admire the terraces of vineyards and orchards along the way. Shoulder check—coast clear? Stop and pick a few marillen (local apricots) to snack on as you ride.

10:19 am

Explore the grounds at the ancient church of St. Michaels. Stroll through the immaculate graveyard, peer inside the 15th-century chapel or take a peek inside the “bone” church.

11:07 am

Take a break! You’ve earned it. Enjoy a little gemütlichkeit, B&R-style. That means it will be a delicious surprise with intangibles you’ll love.

See for Yourself

Two must-see European capitals on one magnificent trip—why not? On our Prague to Vienna Biking trip, start in boho-chic Prague and end in elegant Vienna. In between, take in miles of riverside rides past row up on row of vineyards. Glass of Grüner, anyone?

DETAILED ITINERARY

12:12 pm

Take a tour of the heavenly Melk Monastery, perched above the Danube. Bask in almost a thousand years of history as you stroll through this gold-encrusted Benedictine Abbey and end in one of the most immaculate libraries you’ll ever see.

1:18 pm

Do you float back down the Danube in a boat, giving you time to soak in the views? Or is it a ride back along the tranquil right bank of the river, passing through hamlets and orchards? Better still, do you challenge yourself with a Century Ride and disappear into the Dunkelsteinerwald (Dark Stone Forest) to towns known only to locals and for views that only birds typically enjoy? Yes, decisions, decisions…

4:03 pm

Back at the hotel with enough time to lounge poolside, do a little last-minute shopping or just catch up on a little R&R.

6:06 pm

Off on foot to a great wine tasting featuring some of the best wines you’ve probably never heard of. 19th-century chateau, check. Grüner Veltliner, check. Wachauer laberle, check. Add one loving, passionate vintner and the evening is off to a remarkable start.

8:00 pm

Don’t be late for dinner at Landhaus Bacher! Voted Austria’s best restaurant and showcasing one of Austria’s great culinary minds: Lisl Wagner Bacher.

10:30 pm

An evening stroll through the deserted streets of Durnstein. Explore some later evening options with your companions. Or maybe just a book and bed. After all, tomorrow is just another B&R day—a day like no other.

Mario Koch

A longtime B&R guide turned Trip Designer, Mario has worn many hats: journalist for the Jakarta Post, a sous-chef in Berlin, and a film producer in his native Germany. When he isn't planning trips, you'll find him hiking around Europe and exploring the world in his 1989 Volkswagen bus!