Cruise Port Day PlannerCruise Port Day Planner
Find CruisesPlan a Cruise My Trips Port Guides Featured Cruises

Passau GermanyCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Passau

Passau, the 'City of Three Rivers,' occupies a dramatic peninsula where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers converge — each with distinctly different colored waters visible where they meet. This ancient Bavarian city at the Austrian border was an influential prince-bishopric for centuries, and its Old Town retains its Italian Baroque character from reconstruction after a devastating 1662 fire. The towering St. Stephan's Cathedral houses the world's largest cathedral organ (17,774 pipes), and the commanding Veste Oberhaus fortress looms 100m above the city on a forested ridge. Passau is a frequent starting or ending point for Danube river cruises.

Getting Around from the Port

Cruise ships typically dock at the Fritz-Schäfer-Promenade in the heart of the Old Town, steps from the cathedral and historic center. Some larger vessels dock at Lindau quay, approximately 4km east, requiring a shuttle bus or taxi (~€10). The Old Town is entirely walkable — most sights are within 10 minutes of the central docks. The Veste Oberhaus fortress is reached by shuttle bus (€5 return from Rathausplatz) or a steep 30–40 minute walk up through the forest.

Attractions and Activities

Dom St. Stephan (Cathedral, free entry): listen to the world's largest cathedral organ; organ concerts are held May–October at noon on weekdays (€5). Veste Oberhaus fortress (€7): medieval castle with Passau City Museum, spectacular three-rivers panorama from the tower. Three Rivers Confluence: walk to the Dreiflüsseeck tip of the peninsula to see the blue Danube, green Inn, and dark Ilz meet. Glass Museum in the former Bavarian princess's palace: world's largest collection of Bohemian and European glass (€12). Short river trip: 2-hour boat excursion to Linz or Schlögen Gorge. Day trip to Salzburg (75 min by train, €20–30 return).

Dining & Shopping

Passau's Schrottgasse and the Inn waterfront have excellent traditional Bavarian restaurants. Try Weisswurst (white veal sausage), pretzels with butter, and Bavarian beer at local Biergartens. Café Greindl and Café Duft serve excellent Austrian-Bavarian pastries. The Old Town bakeries offer fresh Brezel. Passau is known for quality glass and crystal products from the nearby Bavarian Forest glass-blowing tradition. Local Wolf Passau schnapps and crystalline glass products are popular gifts. Saturday market on Rathausplatz sells regional produce.

Weather

Passau at the confluence of three rivers is a major Danube river cruise stop, visited from spring to fall with warm summer temperatures between 68–84°F (20–29°C). Continental weather brings warm, pleasant summer days and occasional afternoon thunderstorms, so a light rain layer is useful. The spectacular three-river confluence, the baroque Dom St. Stephan, and the dramatic riverside fortifications make this one of the most picturesque river cruise stops in Bavaria.

Average Temperature (°F)
4612Jan5216Feb6422Mar7025Apr7636May8446Jun8847Jul8848Aug8038Sep7232Oct6022Nov4916Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
2.69Jan2.05Feb1.95Mar2.33Apr4.11May4.63Jun4.16Jul4.26Aug3.51Sep2.35Oct2.5Nov2.76Dec

Safety

Passau is extremely safe. The main hazard is flooding — the city is prone to periodic Danube floods (historic water marks are displayed on the Rathaus building). Check for flood conditions in spring. The Old Town is very tourist-friendly and well-signed.

Currency and Language

Euro (€). ATMs available in Old Town. Credit cards widely accepted.

Top Attractions

Show map
St. Stephen's Cathedral
A baroque masterpiece, St. Stephen's Cathedral dominates Passau's skyline. Marvel at its stunning architecture, intricate stucco work, and the world's largest cathedral organ. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance, or simply soak in the grandeur of this iconic landmark. Don't miss the organ concerts for a truly unforgettable experience.
Veste Oberhaus
Perched high above Passau, Veste Oberhaus is a formidable fortress offering panoramic views of the city and the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Explore its ramparts, museum, and historical exhibits to delve into Passau's rich past. The views alone are worth the climb, providing a breathtaking perspective of the 'City of Three Rivers'.
Dreiflüssestadt (Three Rivers City)
Passau's unique location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers creates a captivating spectacle. Observe the distinct colors of each river as they merge, a natural phenomenon that has shaped the city's history and character. Take a boat tour to fully appreciate the beauty of this 'Three Rivers City' and its picturesque waterfront.
Alte Rathaus (Old Town Hall)
The Alte Rathaus, or Old Town Hall, is a beautiful building located in the heart of Passau. Admire its ornate facade, intricate details, and historical significance. Take a guided tour to learn about the building's history and its role in the city's governance. It's a great place to start exploring the old town.
Museum Moderner Kunst Wörlen
The Museum Moderner Kunst Wörlen showcases a diverse collection of modern and contemporary art. Explore the exhibits, featuring paintings, sculptures, and installations by both local and international artists. The museum offers a stimulating and thought-provoking experience for art enthusiasts.
Pilgrim Church Mariahilf
Located on a hill overlooking Passau, the Pilgrim Church Mariahilf is a beautiful baroque church. Climb the covered stairway (231 steps) or take a bus to reach the church and enjoy panoramic views of the city. The church is a popular pilgrimage site and a place of peace and reflection.
St. Paul Church
St. Paul Church is a beautiful church located near the Danube river. Admire its architecture and interior. The church is a place of peace and reflection.