The 1200-year old town of Vilshofen an der Donau is a little-known delight. Vilshofen is situated just 14 miles upriver (just before the Lower Bavarian-Upper Austrian Danube Gorge) from the much more well-known port of Passau. But, even though it is smaller and less touristy, that doesn’t mean that Vilshofen is any less remarkable. In fact, this town is a fantastic place to get to see the real culture of Bavaria. Bavaria without all the touristy hype and fluff. You have the opportunity to shop where the locals shop, eat where the locals eat, and drink where the locals drink. Vilshofen is the perfect port to begin or end your Danube River Cruise!
Vilshofen, wonderful beginning or ending to your Danube River cruise!
Just a couple of cruise lines either begin or end their Danube River cruises at the port in Vilshofen. Due to the relaxed nature of this quaint port, it is a great place for this. If you are beginning your trip it is a nice place to get your sightseeing feet wet. You can spend day or half day wandering around seeing many of the sights and soaking up the flavor of the town. It is also a nice endpoint. Just coming off the ship your brain might be full of all of the breathtaking experiences and sites you have seen. The relaxed atmosphere of Vilshofen will be a restful end.
What to see in Vilshofen before or after your Danube River cruise
- Marvel at the flood level measurements since 1826. See this fascinating sign down by the dock.
- Stroll down the Stadtplats (Main Street) visiting the local shops, bakery, and gelato serving pizzeria. You know you are on the right street if the Baroque town tower is looming over one end of the street.
- Snap a picture with Josef Groll’s statue partway down the Stadtplatz. Originally from Vilshofen, his claim to fame is creating the first golden Pilsner Beer. In 1842, Groll worked as a brewmaster in Czechoslovakia and brewed this world-famous beer still made today.
- Savor a pint of Pilsner at the street beer garden. You simply must get a taste of the culture!
- Pose with the ‘Knight Alain’ in front of the town hall. During the 13th Century, he was one of the wealthiest noblemen in Vilshofen and Passau.
- Visit Schweiklberg Benedictine Abbey. Built-in 1909, this Art Nouveau inspired Abbey, towers above the town like a medieval fortress church. Inside you will find a library with over 40,000 volumes. The abbey promotes mission work in Africa, South America, and Korea and as a result, has an Africa museum on site.
Oktoberfest with AmaWaterways
Only AmaWaterways brings the festivities of Oktoberfest to their guest all year round in Vilshofen. So what if it isn’t actually October. Anytime deserves a celebration with beer and pretzels! Guests enjoy a entertaining evening with quintessential German food, music and dancing. What fun!
How to get to Vilshofen
- Purchase transfers from your river cruise line from Munich airport.
- Transfers are often included if you purchase air through your river cruise line.
- Take a train from Munich to Vilshofen.
- Book a private car.
- Rent a car (this isn’t really recommended as the train system is so easy).
Do you have a favorite memory of Vilshofen? Would seeing the character and charm of this local Bavarian village be on your bucket list? Let me know in the comments below!
If you would like more information about river cruises in or out of Vilshofen please contact me! Feel free to use the button above and I will get right back to you.
Happy travels to you…until we meet again!
Other links that might be interesting to you:
- Getting to Know the AmaMagna
- Celebrate with Family and Friends Post-Pandemic
- AmaWaterways vs. Viking: Which is best for me?
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