Routes

Planner

Features

Updates

App

Login or Signup

Get the App

Login or Signup

Login or Signup

Routes
Places to see
Germany
Bavaria
Lower Bavaria
Landkreis Passau

Vilshofen an der Donau

Attractions and Places To See around Vilshofen an der Donau - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Vilshofen an der Donau, often referred to as the "Little Three Rivers Town," is situated at the confluence of the Vils, Wolfach, and Danube rivers. This unique geographic location provides a blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. The town features a historic core with Inn-Salzach-style buildings and offers various outdoor activities along its riverbanks.

Best attractions and places to see around Vilshofen an der Donau

  • The most popular attractions is Vils Riverside Trail, a trail that offers a charming route along the banks of the Vils river. It is appreciated for cycling and provides scenic views as the Vils flows towards the Danube.
  • Another must-see spot is Danube Cycle Path near Hilgartsberg Castle, a cycle path considered one of the most scenic sections in Bavaria. Visitors can enjoy cycling and hiking along the Danube, with many sights to explore.
  • Visitors also love Town Square, Vilshofen an der Donau, the historical heart of the town. This settlement features Inn-Salzach-style buildings and is a central point for exploring Vilshofen's history and cultural offerings, including the nearby Beer Underground World.
  • Vilshofen an der Donau is known for its historical landmarks, river landscapes, and cultural sites. The region offers a variety of attractions, from ancient towers and churches to riverside promenades and unique museums.
  • The attractions around Vilshofen an der Donau are appreciated by the komoot community, with over 850 upvotes and 100 photos shared across the highlights.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Danube Cycle Path near Hilgartsberg Castle

Highlight (Segment) • Cycleway

This section is in my opinion one of the most scenic in Bavaria.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

See rides here

Send to Phone

Save

Town Square, Vilshofen an der Donau

Highlight • Settlement

Vilshofen, the small three-river town, located where the Vils and Wolfach rivers converge into the Danube, announces itself from afar with the mighty metal arch construction of the Marienbrücke. Vilshofen is a lovely stopover if you are on the Lower Bavaria tour, for example.

Here everything revolves around beer. You can visit the beer underground world, a 90-meter-long vaulted cellar. Or you can cycle along the signposted beer cycle path and enjoy a refreshing brew here and there. Even if you are not interested in beer, Vilshofen does not have to be boring. You can visit the antiquarian library or go to the Africa Museum. And if you like to spend the night in an unusual place, you will find heavenly peace in the monastery of the Benedictine Abbey of Schweiklberg.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up now to discover places like this

Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.

Sign up for free

From here you have an impressive view of this technical structure that serves two purposes. It was built in 1921 to make shipping on the Danube safer or to make it possible for large ships. Because in the rocky section beforehand it was very difficult. Since then, the lock has been damming up the water and allowing even large ships to sail safely on the Danube. The power plant's turbines also produce energy for Passau. Cycling across the lock is definitely an experience.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

From here you can take a short detour to the Donauinsel Windorf, Germany's longest river island. It is a designated conservation area and here it is just beautiful. Incidentally, you'll be tuned in here to the theme of "beer" when you cycle through the "beer gate" that spans the bike path here. This "triumphal arch" made of beer crates reminds of the intensive beer history of Vilshofen - among other things, the resident Groll brewery produced the inventor of the beer, Josef Groll. But he did not develop that here, but in the Czech Pilsen.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Vils Riverside Trail

Highlight • Trail

It is simply a pleasure to cycle along the banks of the Vils.

Translated by Google •

Tip by

Save

Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Vilshofen an der Donau.

Sign up for free

Already have an account?

Start today with a free account

Your next adventure awaits.

Login or Signup

Popular around Vilshofen an der Donau

Niederbayerntour in 7 stages — Swim trunks, beer, baroque

Cycling in the Passau region

Beer culture on two wheels – 3 multi-day routes, 2 countries, 1 pulse

D-Route 6: Danube Route

On the Niederbayerntour in 7 stages through the Bayerische Thermenland

Erlebnisradrunden im Bayerischen Thermenland

Cycling around Vilshofen an der Donau

Hiking around Vilshofen an der Donau

Running Trails around Vilshofen an der Donau

Road Cycling Routes around Vilshofen an der Donau

Other adventures around Vilshofen an der Donau

Niederbayerntour in 7 stages — Swim trunks, beer, baroque

Cycling Collection by

Niederbayerntour

Tips from the Community

Janniend
July 25, 2024, Danube Cycle Path Near Hilgartsberg Castle

Beautiful section of the Danube Cycle Path.

Translated by Google

3

0

Henne
February 24, 2023, Vils Riverside Path

Easy to drive bike path in a beautiful landscape; some with great views of the rapids.

Translated by Google

4

0

On the Danube there are many sights and great paths for hiking and biking 👌 everyone gets their money's worth here 👍 This place is 100% worth a visit

Translated by Google

13

1

On the Danube there are many sights and great paths for hiking and biking 👌 everyone gets their money's worth here 👍 This place is 100% worth a visit

Translated by Google

11

1

On the Danube there are numerous sights and great paths for hiking and biking 👌 everyone gets their money's worth here 👍 This place is 100% worth a visit

Translated by Google

9

1

There are great hiking and biking trails on the Danube, highly recommended!👌 this place deserves a visit 100% 😊

Translated by Google

9

1

There are great hiking and biking trails on the Danube, highly recommended!👌 this place deserves a visit 100% 😊

Translated by Google

6

1

Very nice path, partly shady and suitable for hot days.

Translated by Google

5

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best ways to experience the rivers in Vilshofen an der Donau?

Vilshofen an der Donau, known as the "Little Three Rivers Town," offers several ways to enjoy its unique river confluence. You can cycle along the scenic Vils Riverside Trail, which provides charming views as the Vils flows towards the Danube. Another popular option is the Danube Cycle Path near Hilgartsberg Castle, considered one of Bavaria's most scenic sections for both cycling and hiking. The Donaupromenade also offers pleasant strolls with picturesque river views.

Where can I find historical landmarks in Vilshofen an der Donau?

The historical heart of the town is the Town Square, Vilshofen an der Donau, featuring Inn-Salzach-style buildings and monuments like the Heinrich Tuschl fountain. Other significant historical sites include the Stadtturm (Town Tower) dating back to 1319, the Gothic St. Johannes Stadtpfarrkirche, and the late Baroque Maria-Hilf-Kirche. The Rathaus, originally a 13th-century inn, also showcases the town's architectural evolution.

Are there any family-friendly attractions in Vilshofen an der Donau?

Yes, several attractions are suitable for families. The Danube Cycle Path near Hilgartsberg Castle and the Vils Riverside Trail are great for family bike rides. The Town Square is a central point for exploring. Additionally, the Kachlet Hydropower Plant and Double Lock offers an interesting technical structure to observe, and cycling across the lock is noted as an experience. The Rest area with access to Donauinsel Windorf is also family-friendly, providing access to Germany's longest river island.

What cultural experiences can I have in Vilshofen an der Donau?

Vilshofen offers a rich cultural scene. You can explore the Town Square, which is surrounded by historic buildings. Delve into the town's brewing heritage at the BierUnterwelten (Beer Underground World), located in a 90-meter-long vaulted cellar of a former brewery. The Schweiklberg Abbey, majestically overlooking the town, houses the Africa Museum, offering unique cultural insights. You can also visit the Antiquarian Library for its collection of old books.

Where can I go for hiking or running near Vilshofen an der Donau?

The region around Vilshofen an der Donau is excellent for outdoor enthusiasts. For hiking, you can explore routes like the 'View of Schweiklberg Abbey – Theresia Chapel loop' or the 'Seven Little Bridges Trail'. If you prefer running, trails such as the 'River Vils – Barbara Chapel loop' or the 'Piske Tower in the Vils Valley – River Vils loop' are popular. Find more detailed routes and guides for these activities at Hiking around Vilshofen an der Donau and Running Trails around Vilshofen an der Donau.

Are there any unique parks or natural reserves to visit?

Yes, Vilshofen features several unique green spaces. The Ginkgo-Park, created for the town's 800th anniversary, is one of Europe's largest Ginkgo groves and includes a piece of the Berlin Wall. Along the Donaupromenade, you'll find the Skulpturenpark, which merges art with nature. For a more immersive natural experience, the Vils-Engtal Nature Reserve along the Vils river provides opportunities to enjoy the local flora and fauna.

What is the Kachlet Hydropower Plant and Double Lock?

The Kachlet Hydropower Plant and Double Lock is an impressive technical structure on the Danube, built in 1921. It serves two main purposes: ensuring safe shipping for large vessels by overcoming a previously rocky section of the river and generating energy for the region. Cycling across the lock is a unique experience, offering an up-close view of this engineering marvel.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the area?

Visitors frequently praise the scenic beauty of the river landscapes, especially along the Danube and Vils. The Danube Cycle Path near Hilgartsberg Castle is often highlighted as one of Bavaria's most picturesque sections. The charm of the Town Square and the historical insights offered by sites like the BierUnterwelten also receive positive feedback. Many appreciate the blend of historical sites, cultural experiences, and natural beauty that Vilshofen offers.

Can I find cycling routes around Vilshofen an der Donau?

Absolutely! Vilshofen an der Donau is a cycling paradise. Besides the popular Danube Cycle Path near Hilgartsberg Castle and the Vils Riverside Trail, there are numerous signposted routes, including the Beer Cycle Path. For road cycling, you can find routes like the 'Kachlet Dam and Lock, Passau – View of Vilshofen an der Donau loop'. More cycling routes are available at Road Cycling Routes around Vilshofen an der Donau.

Is there a place to learn about the local brewing history?

Yes, Vilshofen has a strong connection to brewing. You can visit the BierUnterwelten (Beer Underground World), a museum located in the former fermentation and storage cellars of the Wieninger brewery, which features a 90-meter-long vaulted cellar. Additionally, the Vilshofen Castle houses a Brewery Museum where you can delve deeper into the art and history of beer brewing in the region.

What is the Donauinsel Windorf and how can I access it?

The Donauinsel Windorf is Germany's longest river island and a designated conservation area, known for its natural beauty. You can access it from the Rest area with access to Donauinsel Windorf. From there, you can walk directly over to the island and enjoy its serene environment. This area also features a 'beer gate' spanning the bike path, reminding visitors of Vilshofen's intensive beer history.

Most popular routes around Vilshofen an der Donau

Cycling around Vilshofen an der Donau

Most popular attractions around Vilshofen an der Donau

Lakes

Store rating

Get inspired with the komoot mobile app

With a free komoot account, you can easily find, customize, and navigate endless outdoor adventures.

or

Join komoot Now

Store rating

Explore more

Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions:

HutthurmHauzenbergThyrnauBüchlbergBreitenbergNeuburg am InnObernzellUntergriesbachRudertingSalzwegFürstenzellNeuhaus am InnNeukirchen vorm WaldWitzmannsbergTittlingFürstensteinWindorfSonnenEging am SeeBad FüssingWegscheidAicha vorm WaldPockingRotthalmünsterRuhstorf an der RottKößlarnMalchingTettenweisAidenbachAldersbachHaarbachHofkirchenBeutelsbachBad Griesbach im RottalOrtenburgKlosterholzRannasee

Nearby adventure guides

Things to Do around Hofkirchen

background

Get ready to conquer new peaks

Sign up for Free

Explore
RoutesRoute plannerFeaturesHikesMTB TrailsRoad cycling routesBikepackingSitemap
Download the app
Follow Us on Socials

© komoot GmbH

Privacy Policy