15 Best Things to Do in Passau 🇩🇪 – Guide to Must-See Attractions

Nestled at the meeting point of three rivers, Passau captivated me from the moment I arrived. This charming Bavarian city, often called the “City of Three Rivers,” offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, medieval architecture, and cultural treasures that remain surprisingly uncrowded compared to Germany’s more famous destinations.

During my recent visit, I discovered hidden artistic alleys, climbed to panoramic viewpoints, and witnessed the unique spectacle of differently colored rivers joining together. Whether you’re planning a quick day visit or a longer stay, this guide covers everything from must-see historical sites to seasonal activities that showcase Passau at its finest. Let me take you through this gem of a city that quickly became one of my favorite European destinations.

🏠 Where to Stay in Passau

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Schloß Ort, Passau
• 🏨 4-Star: Hotel Residenz Passau
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Zur Triftsperre
• 💸 Cheap: Rotel Inn, Passau
• 🏢 Apartment: Apparthotel Rivers Passau
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Ferienwohnung Frank, Passau
• 🏩 For Couples: Hotel & Restaurant Waldschloss

💁 Best Guided Tours

• Passau Classic Guided Tour from € 19 (⭐ 4.8/5)
• Passau Castle Tour with Viewpoint Linde Battery and St. George's Chapel from € 160 (⭐ 5.0/5)
• Passau Old Town, Cathedral, and Castle Private Walking Tour from € 250 (⭐ 5.0/5)
• Passau XL Sightseeing Tour from € 25 (⭐ 4.7/5)
• Passau 1-Hour Guided City Walking Tour from € 12 (⭐ 4.6/5)

Best Things to Do in Passau

1. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

Baroque masterpiece. Standing in front of the cathedral, I was immediately struck by its impressive twin towers dominating Passau’s skyline. This 17th-century Catholic building isn’t just another European church – it houses the world’s largest cathedral organ with over 17,000 pipes!

Organ concerts. The acoustics inside are simply phenomenal. I attended one of their regular organ concerts (held May-October at noon on weekdays and Thursdays at 7:30 pm) and was completely mesmerized by the mighty sounds filling the space.

Interior splendor. Walking through the cathedral, I discovered stunning frescoes and opulent altars that tell stories of faith and artistry. The serene ambiance inside creates a perfect escape from the bustling town outside.

Practical info. The cathedral opens daily from 6:30 am to 6 pm, making it easy to fit into any itinerary. Entry to the cathedral is free, but concert tickets start at €15.

Timing tip. Plan your visit around the daily organ concerts if possible – they’re absolutely worth it! The cathedral is located on Domplatz in the heart of the Old Town, making it easy to combine with other attractions.

⭐ Best Activities

• Passau Classic Guided Tour – Discover the highlights of Passau’s historic center with a knowledgeable local guide who will share fascinating stories about this beautiful Bavarian city where three rivers meet.

2. Veste Oberhaus Fortress

Panoramic views. Perched high above Passau, this 13th-century fortress offers the most breathtaking views of the city and the unique confluence of three rivers – the Danube, Inn, and Ilz. I spent nearly an hour at the Linde Battery viewpoint just taking photos.

Medieval history. Built in 1219 by Prince-Bishop Ulrich II, this impressive complex is one of Europe’s largest and best-preserved fortresses. Walking through its historic walls, I felt transported back to medieval times.

Museum highlights. The Oberhausmuseum inside features fascinating exhibitions about castle life, regional history, and Passau’s importance as a trade center. My favorite section was the one about medieval knighthood.

Observation Tower. Don’t miss the newly reopened Observation Tower with its multimedia installations. The climb to the upper platform rewards you with unrivalled panoramic views extending into Austria.

Getting there. I took the shuttle bus from Town Hall Square (runs every half hour during museum opening times). Pro tip: show your bus ticket for a discount on the museum entrance fee!

⭐ Best Activities

• Passau Castle Tour with Viewpoint Linde Battery and St. George's Chapel – Explore the impressive Veste Oberhaus fortress complex with its panoramic viewpoints and historic St. George’s Chapel on this guided tour that accommodates groups of up to 15 people.

3. Dreiflüsseeck (Three Rivers Confluence)

Natural wonder. Standing at the Dreiflüsseeck, I witnessed one of Passau’s most magical phenomena – the meeting point of three distinctly colored rivers. The blue Danube merges with the green Inn and the black Ilz, creating a fascinating natural spectacle you won’t find anywhere else in Europe.

River colors. What fascinated me most was how each river maintains its own color for several meters after joining. The Inn appears greenish due to alpine sediments, while the Ilz carries dark humic acids from the Bavarian Forest bogs.

Viewing spots. I found the best viewpoint at Ortspitze Park, where a small peninsula juts out between the rivers. From here, I could clearly see the color differences and snap perfect photos of this unique geographical feature.

Best spots to view the Three Rivers Confluence:

• Ortspitze Park peninsula (free access)
• Veste Oberhaus viewing platform (requires fortress entry)
• Boat tour perspective (€12 per person)
• Café-Restaurant Altstadt-Keller terrace (with refreshments)

Boat perspective. For around €12, I took a short boat tour that provided an even better view of the confluence. Seeing the three-colored waters from the boat deck was worth every euro!

Local tip. Visit after rainfall when the color contrasts between the rivers are most pronounced. The area is free to access and open 24/7, making it perfect for sunrise or sunset visits.

⭐ Best Activities

• Passau Old Town, Cathedral and Castle Private Walking Tour – Enjoy a private guided experience through Passau’s most significant landmarks including the historic old town, magnificent cathedral with its famous organ, and the hilltop castle with breathtaking views.

4. Glasmuseum Passau

Glass paradise. Housed in the historic Hotel Wilder Mann, I discovered Europe’s largest collection of Bohemian glass. With over 30,000 pieces spanning four centuries, this museum showcases exquisite craftsmanship that left me speechless.

Colorful displays. Walking through the museum’s 15 rooms, I was mesmerized by the rainbow of colors in the glass exhibits. The ruby-red pieces were particularly striking – apparently colored using real gold in the glass-making process!

Rare treasures. The collection includes incredibly detailed painted glasses, intricate cut crystal, and even glass furniture. My favorite was the “Passau Gold Ruby Glass” – a special technique perfected in this region.

Guided tours. I highly recommend joining one of the daily guided tours (available in English at 2 pm). The guide shared fascinating stories about glass-making traditions that I would have missed otherwise.

Shopping opportunity. The museum shop offers beautiful glass pieces made by local artisans. I picked up a small blue vase for €35 – pricey but unique and directly supporting traditional craftsmanship.

5. Höllgasse Artists Alley

Colorful cobblestones. Walking down Höllgasse (Hell’s Alley), I was immediately charmed by its vibrant, painted cobblestones. This narrow medieval lane has been transformed into an open-air art gallery by local artists who’ve created a rainbow path through the Old Town.

Artistic atmosphere. The street is lined with small art studios, galleries, and craft shops. I spent a delightful afternoon browsing unique handmade jewelry, paintings, and ceramics – all created by Passau artists.

Must-visit spots in Höllgasse:

• Keramik Werkstatt (pottery workshop with hands-on classes)
• Glaskunst Studio (handblown glass demonstrations)
• Café Kunstwerk (art-themed café with local pastries)
• Malerei Galerie (paintings by regional artists)
• Schmuckdesign (unique handcrafted jewelry)

Creative workshops. I stumbled upon a small pottery studio offering 1-hour workshops for €25. Creating my own ceramic souvenir under the guidance of a local artist became one of my favorite Passau memories.

Hidden cafés. Tucked between the galleries, I found charming little cafés serving excellent Bavarian pastries. A slice of homemade Apfelstrudel with coffee cost me about €5.50 – perfect for an artistic break!

Photography heaven. The colorful street art against medieval architecture creates stunning photo opportunities. Visit midday when the alley is fully illuminated but not too crowded with tourists.

6. Schaiblingsturm

Architectural marvel. I was impressed by the tower’s unusual pentagonal shape and distinctive red-tiled roof. The massive stone walls have withstood centuries of flooding – look for the high-water marks etched into the exterior.

Riverside views. Walking around the tower’s base, I enjoyed spectacular views across both rivers. The small plaza nearby offered a perfect spot to watch river cruises glide by while enjoying an ice cream from the nearby shop (€2.50 for two scoops).

Historical significance. This tower once controlled river traffic and collected tolls from passing ships. Today, it stands as a reminder of Passau’s strategic importance along major European trade routes.

Photography tip. The tower looks particularly dramatic when lit up at night. I captured some stunning photos from the opposite riverbank during blue hour, with the illuminated tower reflected in the water.

⭐ Best Activities

• Passau XL Sightseeing Tour – Experience an extended exploration of Passau’s highlights on this comprehensive sightseeing tour that covers both major attractions and hidden gems throughout the City of Three Rivers.

7. Roman Museum Castle Boiotro

Ancient history. Exploring the remains of the Roman fortress Boiotro, I discovered Passau’s fascinating 2,000-year history. This compact museum showcases archaeological finds from the 3rd-century Roman military camp that once stood here.

Original foundations. Walking through the preserved Roman foundations was like stepping back in time. The museum is built directly over the excavation site, allowing visitors to see the actual stone walls and heating systems.

Notable Roman artifacts on display:

• Military equipment (swords, shields, armor fragments)
• Everyday household items (pottery, cooking implements)
• Personal accessories (jewelry, hairpins, brooches)
• Children’s toys and games
• Original Roman coins from different emperors

Artifact collection. I was amazed by the well-preserved everyday items on display – Roman coins, pottery, jewelry, and even children’s toys. The collection of military equipment, including swords and armor fragments, was particularly impressive.

Interactive elements. The museum offers hands-on activities for visitors, including a Roman dress-up station and coin-rubbing station. I especially enjoyed the reconstructed Roman kitchen with authentic cooking implements.

Hidden gem. Unlike the more popular attractions, this museum was pleasantly uncrowded. I spent nearly an hour examining the exhibits with helpful English descriptions and barely saw another visitor – perfect for history buffs seeking an authentic experience.

Things to Do in Passau with Kids

1. Inn Promenade

Riverside relaxation. Strolling along the Inn Promenade with my niece and nephew was the perfect way to enjoy Passau’s natural beauty. This tree-lined walkway follows the Inn River, offering peaceful views and plenty of space for kids to run around.

Picnic paradise. We packed a simple lunch and found a lovely grassy spot to enjoy our sandwiches. Several local families were doing the same, creating a friendly, relaxed atmosphere away from the tourist crowds.

Kid-friendly activities:

• Duck feeding (bring oats or seeds, not bread)
• Spotting passing river cruise ships
• Playground near Schaiblingsturm
• Ice cream stands (€1.50-3.00 per scoop)
• Bicycle rentals for older children (€12/day)

Playground fun. About halfway along the promenade, we discovered a small playground where the kids burned off energy on swings and climbing frames. It was clean and well-maintained – a perfect break during our walk.

Seasonal treats. During summer months, several ice cream stands pop up along the promenade. We paid €2 per scoop for delicious locally-made gelato – the kids loved the bright blue “Smurf” flavor while I enjoyed traditional Bavarian hazelnut.

2. Scharfrichterhaus

Cultural entertainment. This historic “Executioner’s House” has been transformed into Passau’s premier cultural venue. Despite its macabre name, I found it offers family-friendly entertainment options including puppet shows and afternoon performances.

Fascinating history. The kids were captivated by the building’s unusual history – it once housed the city’s executioner, who was considered an outcast by society. The staff shared child-appropriate stories about the building’s past that sparked their imagination.

Family-friendly offerings at Scharfrichterhaus:

• Children’s theater performances (€8-12)
• Puppet shows (weekends at 2pm)
• Magic shows (monthly)
• Interactive music workshops
• Child-friendly menu options

Delicious dining. The attached restaurant serves excellent Bavarian cuisine with a children’s menu. My nephew devoured his Spätzle (egg noodles) with sauce for €6.50, while I enjoyed traditional Schweinsbraten (roast pork) for €14.90.

Show tickets. Family-friendly performances typically cost €8-12 per person, with discounts for children under 12. I recommend booking in advance during peak season as shows often sell out.

⭐ Best Activities

• Passau 1-Hour Guided City Walking Tour – Perfect for visitors with limited time, this concise one-hour walking tour covers the essential highlights of Passau’s historic center while providing fascinating insights into the city’s unique history and culture.

Free Things to Do in Passau

1. Explore the Old Town

Medieval charm. Wandering through Passau’s Old Town cost me nothing but time, yet delivered some of my most memorable experiences. The narrow cobblestone streets and colorful Baroque buildings create a fairytale atmosphere that’s perfect for aimless exploration.

Architectural gems. I discovered beautiful buildings around every corner – from the ornate Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) with its distinctive tower to hidden courtyards and ancient merchant houses with intricate facades.

Free Old Town highlights:

• Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) exterior
• Baroque façades along Residenzplatz
• Historic city gates (Schaiblingsturm, Paulinerkirche)
• Street musicians near St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Picturesque bridges connecting the peninsula

Local encounters. The best part of exploring the Old Town was chatting with locals. An elderly shopkeeper shared stories about growing up in Passau, pointing out buildings that survived WWII and others that were reconstructed.

Window shopping. The Old Town is filled with charming boutiques selling everything from handmade chocolates to traditional Bavarian clothing. Even without buying anything, browsing these unique shops was thoroughly enjoyable.

2. Visit Residenzplatz Square

Baroque beauty. Standing in Residenzplatz, I was surrounded by some of Passau’s most impressive architecture. This elegant square is dominated by the New Bishop’s Residence (Neue Residenz) with its striking white façade and grand staircase.

People watching. I spent a delightful hour simply sitting on one of the free public benches, watching locals and tourists go about their day. The square serves as Passau’s living room – a place where people meet, chat, and relax.

What to see around Residenzplatz:

• Neue Residenz (New Bishop’s Residence) exterior
• Wittelsbacherbrunnen fountain
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral entrance
• Historic pharmacy building
• Seasonal market stalls

Fountain marvel. The centerpiece of the square is the beautiful Wittelsbacherbrunnen, a Baroque fountain featuring mythological figures. On hot days, the fine mist from the fountain provided welcome relief from the heat.

Market atmosphere. Depending on the day, you might find small market stalls selling fresh produce, flowers, or crafts. I picked up information about local events from a tourist information booth that’s often set up here – completely free!

Seasonal Activities

Christmas in Passau

Festive markets. Visiting Passau’s Christmas market in Domplatz was like stepping into a winter wonderland. The square transforms with wooden stalls selling handcrafted ornaments, toys, and seasonal treats beneath the cathedral’s imposing façade.

Culinary delights. I warmed up with a mug of Glühwein (mulled wine) for €4, served in a collectible Christmas mug. The aroma of roasted chestnuts, gingerbread, and grilled sausages filled the air, creating an irresistible sensory experience.

Christmas market highlights:

• Traditional Bavarian ornaments
• Handcrafted wooden toys
• Live nativity scene
• Choral performances at St. Stephen’s Cathedral
• Special Christmas organ concerts

Illuminated beauty. The entire Old Town glows with tasteful holiday lights, making evening walks magical. I particularly enjoyed the illuminated path along the rivers, where lights reflect off the water.

Special concerts. The cathedral hosts special Advent concerts featuring its famous organ. Tickets range from €15-25 depending on seating, but the experience of hearing Christmas music on the world’s largest cathedral organ is unforgettable.

Summer Festivals and Events

Riverside celebrations. Summer in Passau brings the city to life with festivals and outdoor events. The highlight of my visit was the Dult Festival (June), a traditional Bavarian celebration with rides, food stalls, and beer tents along the Danube.

Music everywhere. During summer months, free concerts take place in various squares throughout the Old Town. I stumbled upon an excellent jazz quartet performing in Residenzplatz one evening – a perfect soundtrack to the sunset.

Summer event calendar:

• Eurofestival (May) – international music performances
• Dult Festival (June) – traditional Bavarian celebration
• Passau Art Festival (July) – exhibitions throughout the city
• Summer Night Festival (August) – open-air concerts
• River Cruises Festival (September) – special boat parades

Outdoor dining. Restaurants and cafés spill onto the streets with outdoor seating areas. I enjoyed a refreshing Radler (beer with lemonade) for €3.80 at a riverside café while watching boats cruise by on the Danube.

Evening river cruises. Special evening cruises operate during summer months, offering a unique perspective of Passau illuminated at night. A 1-hour cruise costs around €15 and includes a welcome drink.

Spring Blooms in Royal Parks

Floral displays. Spring transforms Passau’s green spaces with colorful blooms. The Hanging Gardens below Veste Oberhaus burst with tulips, daffodils, and flowering trees from late March through May.

Riverside renewal. Walking along the Inn Promenade in spring, I witnessed nature awakening after winter. The tree-lined path was dotted with cherry blossoms, creating a photogenic tunnel of pink and white flowers.

Best spring blooming spots:

• Hanging Gardens below Veste Oberhaus
• Inn Promenade cherry trees
• Residenzplatz flower beds
• Ortspitze Park wildflowers
• University Botanical Garden (small entrance fee of €2)

Bird watching. Spring brings migratory birds back to the river confluence. I spotted herons, ducks, and even kingfishers while walking along the quieter stretches of the Ilz River.

Easter traditions. If you visit around Easter, look for beautifully decorated Easter fountains (Osterbrunnen) throughout the city. Local artisans decorate public fountains with painted eggs and spring flowers – a charming Bavarian tradition.

Autumn Foliage Walks

Golden landscapes. Autumn painted Passau in spectacular colors during my October visit. The hills surrounding the city turned golden and crimson, creating breathtaking views from the fortress and riverside paths.

Crisp air adventures. The cooler temperatures made hiking the paths around Veste Oberhaus particularly pleasant. The trail from the Old Town up to the fortress offers multiple viewpoints where I captured stunning photos of fall foliage against the rivers.

Recommended autumn walking routes:

• Ilz River Valley Trail (4km easy path)
• Veste Oberhaus Panorama Trail (2km with elevation)
• Three Rivers Circuit (6km flat riverside path)
• Mariahilf Monastery Path (3km with steps)
• Hals Castle Ruins Trail (5km moderate hike)

Harvest festivals. Local wine and harvest celebrations take place in surrounding villages during September and October. I joined a small wine festival in nearby Obernzell (15 minutes by bus) where I tasted regional wines for €2-3 per glass.

Cozy cafés. Autumn is perfect for ducking into Passau’s charming cafés when the weather turns chilly. I enjoyed homemade pumpkin soup (€5.50) and apple strudel (€3.80) at Café Anton while watching colorful leaves drift down outside.

Day Trips from Passau

1. Cesky Krumlov (Private Tours Available)

Fairy-tale destination. Just two hours from Passau lies the UNESCO World Heritage town of Cesky Krumlov. This perfectly preserved medieval Czech town felt like stepping into a storybook with its winding streets and stunning castle perched above the Vltava River.

Border crossing. I joined a small-group tour (€85 including transport and guide) that handled the border crossing smoothly. You can also rent a car (approximately €60/day) or use public transportation (more complicated with transfers).

Cesky Krumlov highlights:

• State Castle and Chateau (entrance €16)
• Baroque Theater
• Winding medieval streets
• Vltava River views
• Local craft shops selling Bohemian crystal

Castle complex. The massive castle complex dominates the town with over 40 buildings and courtyards. I paid €16 for the main castle tour, which included the impressive Baroque theater – one of only few preserved in Europe.

Local cuisine. For lunch, I tried traditional Czech food at Restaurant Krčma Šatlava, spending about 300 CZK (€12) for a hearty meal of goulash and dumplings with a local beer. Much more affordable than similar meals in Germany!

⭐ Best Activities

• Passau 1-Hour Guided City Walking Tour – One of the Czech Republic’s most beautiful towns, compact Cesky Krumlov makes walking a delight. Hit the highlights with a private guide on this half-day tour. See the courtyards, gardens, and fountains of Cesky Krumlov Castle, tour the 15th-century Church of St. Vitus, and explore the historic center. For ease, your guide collects you from your hotel, the bus station, or the center at a time that suits your schedule.

2. Vienna via Donau Cycle Path

Cycling adventure. The Danube Cycle Path from Passau to Vienna offers one of Europe’s most scenic bike routes. While the full journey takes 5-7 days, I opted for a one-day section, cycling from Passau to Schlögen Bend (about 40km) before returning by boat.

Bike rental. Several shops in Passau offer quality bicycle rentals. I paid €25 for a day rental from Donau Radl, which included a helmet, repair kit, and maps. Electric bikes are also available for €45 if you want an easier ride.

Danube Cycle Path practicalities:

• Bike rental in Passau (€25/day standard, €45/day e-bike)
• Well-marked, flat paths suitable for all fitness levels
• Regular boat services for return journeys (€29 with bike)
• Numerous riverside restaurants and rest stops
• Accommodation options in villages along the route

Schlögen Bend. The highlight of my day trip was reaching the famous Schlögen Bend, where the Danube makes a dramatic 180-degree turn between steep, forested hills. The viewpoint above the bend offered spectacular photo opportunities.

Return options. I took the afternoon boat back to Passau (€29 including bike transport), enjoying the scenery from the water perspective. During summer months, boats run several times daily, making this a flexible day trip option.

❓ FAQ

What is the most impressive attraction in Passau?

The Dom houses the largest church organ in the world with over 17,000 pipes and stunning interior decorations. It’s absolutely worth visiting for both its magnificent architecture and the daily organ concerts that showcase its remarkable acoustics.

How should I spend one day in Passau?

Begin in the Altstadt exploring the historic buildings and Gothic Rathaus, then visit the Dom for the midday organ concert, followed by lunch at a riverside café. Finish your day with a relaxing boat tour to see where the three rivers meet and admire the views of Passau from the water.

Is the Glasmuseum worth visiting?

The Glasmuseum houses Europe’s largest collection of Bohemian glass with over 30,000 exquisite pieces spanning four centuries. It’s definitely worth visiting for anyone interested in art, craftsmanship, or the cultural heritage of the region between Bavaria and the Czech lands.

Where exactly do the three rivers meet?

The three rivers meet at the northernmost tip of Passau’s Altstadt peninsula, creating a natural spectacle where each maintains its distinct color for several meters. This unique geographical feature has shaped Passau’s history as a trading center and can be viewed from several excellent vantage points around the city.

What’s special about Passau’s history?

Passau served as the seat of powerful prince-bishops for over 600 years, giving the city its distinctive architectural character and political importance. The city’s strategic location at the junction of three rivers made it a crucial trading post between Bavaria and Austrian territories, contributing to its wealth and cultural significance.

Can I take a walk along the Inn?

The pathway along the Inn offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful views of the Altstadt’s colorful buildings reflected in the water. During spring and summer, this area becomes particularly charming with flowering trees, outdoor cafés, and excellent photography opportunities of Passau’s distinctive skyline.

Is the Rathaus in Passau interesting?

The Gothic Rathaus features an impressive astronomical clock, beautiful frescoes, and exhibits detailing Passau’s municipal history. Its central location makes it an excellent starting point for exploring the Altstadt, with helpful tourist information available inside.

Can I visit Linz from Passau?

Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, is just 80km from Passau and easily accessible by train in about an hour. The Austrian city offers additional cultural attractions including the Ars Electronica Center and Linz Castle, making it a feasible and rewarding extension to your Passau visit.