Passau

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Introducing Passau

Straddling the confluence of three rivers, the Danube, Inn and Ilz, Passau was predestined to become a powerful trading post. The waterways brought wealth, especially from ‘white gold’ (salt), and Christianity brought prestige as the city evolved into the largest bishopric in the Holy Roman Empire. The beautiful old centre has a distinct Italian look, with winding medieval lanes, tunnels and archways. The Niebelungenlied, the epic poem about a dragon-slayer, is believed to originate from here, at the bishop’s 13th-century court.

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Passau is a major river-cruise stop and is often deluged with day visitors. It is also the hub of many long-distance cycling routes, eight of which converge here, and a good springboard for explorations into upper ­Austria.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009

Thorn Tree forum discussion

Recent posts

  1. neckervd avatar
    RE: Salzburg or Budapest?

    by neckervd 21 August 2011

    In which season? In summer you could check 1 or 2 day Danube riverboat cruises (to Wachau - Linz - Passau, etc.), trips to the Alps…
  2. neckervd avatar
    RE: How much is a walk-on train fare from Bregenz to Linz?

    by neckervd 06 August 2011

    If you are more than 1 pax, you may also check the Bayern ticket. Lindau - Munich - Passau for up to 5 pax: 29 EUR. http://www.bahn.de/regi…
  3. chula avatar
    RE: where to sleep, bicycling Regensburg to Passau along the Danube

    by chula 08 July 2011

    thanks - i had seen this, but lost address and how to contact. this is very helpful!!

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