Passau tours

Things to do in Passau

Welcome to Passau, a city where three rivers converge, each telling its own ancient tale. The baroque allure of this city, coupled with its cobblestone streets, feels like stepping into a living postcard. But to truly grasp its essence, you must venture beyond the obvious. Your local guide will navigate you through Passau's hidden gems, from exploring secretive alleys on a walking tour to tasting traditional Bavarian cuisine on a food and wine tour. With the advantage of skipping the line at the renowned St. Stephen's Cathedral, you'll be enveloped by the haunting melodies of the world's largest cathedral organ. Dive into the heart of Passau, where every corner whispers a story, and let your guide turn your journey into a treasured memory. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Passau. Explore Passau your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Passau tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Passau for every interest, including: Nature and Wildlife tours: Join your guide for a walk through the Danube Floodplains to spot herons, beavers, and rare wildflowers, or head to the Bavarian Forest National Park for a scenic hike beneath towering spruce trees. In spring and autumn, you might include a gentle river cruise to watch migratory birds along the Ilz River. History tours: Stroll Passau’s narrow lanes to uncover stories from its days as a medieval salt-trading hub. Your guide could take you inside St. Stephen’s Cathedral to admire the Baroque organ, or down to the fortress of Veste Oberhaus for views over the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers while sharing tales of centuries-old rivalries. Passau’s old town is highly walkable, and buses connect most local districts. For reaching the Bavarian Forest, Salzburg, or destinations across the border, you can arrange a chauffeured tour, book a day trip with private transportation, or ask your guide about tailored transport options. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Passau inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Discover Passau's charm on a private walking tour, where you can explore the city's vibrant neighborhoods with your local guide. There's no better way to know a neighborhood than having someone who calls it home by your side. - Old Town (Altstadt): Dive into a world of cobblestone streets and baroque architecture. Perfect for cultural tourists and those interested in history, with its stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral and quaint artisan shops. - Innstadt: Enjoy the tranquility along the riverbanks, ideal for families and multi-generational groups who love leisurely walks and picturesque views. - Neustift District: A hub for modern shopping and dining, catering to visitors seeking culinary delights and contemporary experiences. Day trip ideas from Passau From Passau, plan day trips that hop to river towns, forest trails, and nearby Austrian cities, using a day trip tour that matches your pace and interests. - Regensburg: A compact Old Town with the Stone Bridge, riverside lanes, and sturdy medieval towers. Come for layered history, coffee breaks on quiet squares, and Danube views; your tour can focus on architecture or simple riverside walks. - Linz, Austria: A quick shot down the Danube for street art at the Mural Harbor, a lively Hauptplatz, and casual cafés. Good for design-minded wanderers, modern city feel, and easy tram-linked viewpoints. - Bavarian Forest National Park: Trail loops through deep woods, wooden boardwalks, and fresh air without big climbs. Suits hikers, families, and anyone who wants a calm nature day; add a glassmaking town stop if crafts interest you. - Schärding, Austria: Colourful baroque facades on the Silberzeile, an easy riverfront stroll, and pastry breaks. Works well for low-key photography, local flavours, and a slower day. - Salzburg: Walk narrow lanes, see Mirabell Gardens, and listen for music history around every corner. A fit for culture fans, city views from gentle hills, and longer urban walks; your tour can balance landmarks with quiet neighbourhood streets. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Passau most travellers miss.