Danube Cycle Path (Ulm) - Image 1
1 / 10

Danube Cycle Path Ulm

4.5
·50 reviews·Ulm, Germany

Cycle along the scenic Danube, exploring historic Ulm with its world's tallest church spire and charming old town.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather for cycling

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Danube Cycle Path (Ulm) - Image 1

Danube Cycle Path Ulm

Best Time

Spring mornings

Pleasant weather for cycling

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Cycle along the scenic Danube, exploring historic Ulm with its world's tallest church spire and charming old town.

4.5
(50 reviews)

"Great bike path with little climb in and around Ulm. However, very narrow in Ulm."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚲 Cycle Path Quality Varies

Be aware that path conditions can change. Some sections are great, others are narrow or shared with cars.

🏠 Explore Ulm's Old Town

Don't just cycle through! Ulm's Fischerviertel is a fairytale gem worth exploring.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ulm Minster

Ulm Minster

Ulm

Gaze up at the world's tallest church spire, a breathtaking Gothic masterpiece offering panoramic city views.

Fischerviertel (Fishermen's Quarter)

Fischerviertel (Fishermen's Quarter)

Ulm

Wander through charming narrow streets lined with half-timbered houses and discover the leaning house.

Danube Riverfront

Danube Riverfront

Ulm/Neu-Ulm

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or cycle along the riverbanks, taking in the city's picturesque riverside scenery.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Cycling the Danube: Ulm to Passau

The Danube Cycle Path offers a scenic journey, but be prepared for varying path conditions. While sections around Ulm are well-maintained, some parts can be narrow or shared with cars. Consider your cycling experience and pack accordingly for a comfortable ride.

Ulm's Charm Beyond the Bike Path

Ulm is more than just a stop on the Danube. Explore its historic Fischerviertel, marvel at the world's tallest church spire, and soak in the city's unique atmosphere. Allow extra time to discover these gems before or after your cycling adventure.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for cycling
Crowd
Low
When
Summer evenings
Why
Festivals and lively atmosphere
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn afternoons
Why
Beautiful fall colors
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Extreme FASTBREAK water slide at Donaubad Neu-Ulm, Germany #donaubad #waterpark #waterslide #fastbreak #turborutsche #wasserrutsche #ulm #aquapark #slide #foryou #fyp #foryoupage #tiktok #neu #wasserpark #schwimmbad #tuberides
@tuberides.official
137.6K likes • 6.1M views

🚲 Cycle Path Quality Varies

Be aware that path conditions can change. Some sections are great, others are narrow or shared with cars. Reddit

🏠 Explore Ulm's Old Town

Don't just cycle through! Ulm's Fischerviertel is a fairytale gem worth exploring. TikTok

Ulm is a cozy city in southern Germany, located on the banks of the Danube. It is home to Ulm Minster (Ulmer Münster)—the tallest church in the world (161.5 m). Albert Einstein was born here. The old town is filled with half-timbered houses, and the Fishermen’s Quarter (Fischerviertel) is known for its narrow streets and the leaning house Schiefes Haus. Ulm combines medieval architecture with a mo...
@travel_travel_with_me
13.5K likes • 241.1K views
Ulm muss im nächsten Jahr für 3,5 Wochen komplett für den gesamten Zugverkehr gesperrt werden. Der Grund ist die Inbetriebnahme des neuen ESTWs (Elektronisches Stellwerk), dass tatsächlich schon mehrere Jahre anstand. Das Umstellen der Stellwerks- und Signaltechnik, sowie die Test- und Abnahmephasen stehen an und müssen sorgfältig vorbereitet werden. In der Zeit rollt für Fahrgäste kein einziger Z...
@peterle.sky
12.3K likes • 274.8K views

⬆️ Child-Friendly? Not Always.

The path from Donaueschingen to Ulm has elevation gains, so consider this for families. Reddit

💧 Nabada Water Festival

If visiting in summer, don't miss the epic Nabada water battle on the Danube! TikTok

Ulm is a city in southwestern Germany, located in the state of Baden-Württemberg. It is best known for its main landmark — the Ulm Minster, the tallest church in the world, with a tower reaching 161.5 meters. In 1879, Albert Einstein was born here. During the Middle Ages, Ulm was an important trading center and a member of the Swabian League. The city lies on the Danube River, which separates it f...
@travel_travel_with_me
9.1K likes • 167K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚲 Cycle Path Quality Varies

Be aware that path conditions can change. Some sections are great, others are narrow or shared with cars. Reddit

🏠 Explore Ulm's Old Town

Don't just cycle through! Ulm's Fischerviertel is a fairytale gem worth exploring. TikTok

⬆️ Child-Friendly? Not Always.

The path from Donaueschingen to Ulm has elevation gains, so consider this for families. Reddit

💧 Nabada Water Festival

If visiting in summer, don't miss the epic Nabada water battle on the Danube! TikTok

🎟️ Free Activities in Ulm

Discover Ulm and Neu-Ulm with plenty of free things to do, like exploring the riverbanks. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.5
(50 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Danube Cycle Path near Ulm offers beautiful scenery and charming historical sites like the Fischerviertel. However, cyclists should be aware of variable path conditions, including narrow sections and potential construction, especially in Germany. While the Austrian side is often praised for its maintenance, the German sections require more vigilance and preparedness.

"Good place to walk, but sometime disturbed by cyclists."

Christine Hollay

"Nice place place for walking and cycling"

Yasaman Shirazi moghadam

"From Donaueschingen to Ulm, the route isn't particularly child-friendly, as there are quite a few elevation gains to be made! The scenery is very beautiful and makes up for the effort. The restaurants along the bike path are top-notch!"

Frank Haage

What People Like

Beautiful scenery
Charming historic towns
Good restaurants

What People Dislike

Variable path quality
Confusing signage
Construction detours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Ulm is well-connected by train, making it an accessible starting point for your cycling adventure. You can reach Ulm from major German cities like Munich and Stuttgart. TikTok

Yes, Ulm is a popular and convenient starting point for the Danube Cycle Path, offering good infrastructure and access to the river. TikTok

Absolutely! Cycling from Ulm eastward will take you through Bavaria and into Austria, following the Danube. Reddit

Deutsche Bahn (German Rail) offers bike transport options on many of its trains, which is a convenient way to get your bicycle to Ulm. Check their website for details. TikTok

Yes, Ulm has several parking garages and lots available. However, for long-term parking while cycling, consider train travel to avoid high costs and ensure your vehicle is secure. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Danube Cycle Path itself is a public route and does not require tickets for access. Enjoy the ride freely! Reddit

While cycling the path is free, attractions like the Ulm Minster tower may have admission fees. Many of Ulm's charming streets and the riverfront are free to explore. TikTok

Spring and autumn offer pleasant cycling weather with fewer crowds. Summer is lively with festivals like Nabada, but can be hotter and busier. TikTok

The Nabada, a unique water battle on the Danube, typically takes place during the Schwörmontag celebrations in July. TikTok

It's highly recommended to book accommodation in advance, especially during peak season (summer) or if you're traveling during local festivals. TikTok

🎫 🚴 Onsite Experience

The path around Ulm is generally good, but can be narrow and shared with pedestrians. Further east, conditions can vary, with some sections experiencing construction or being less maintained. Reddit

The section from Donaueschingen to Ulm has some elevation changes that might be challenging for very young children. However, the path within and around Ulm is flatter and more family-friendly. Reddit

Signage can be confusing at times, especially in Germany. It's advisable to use a reliable map or GPS device to navigate. Reddit

Yes, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes along the Danube, particularly in towns and villages. The restaurants along the bike path are top-notch! Reddit

Explore the historic Fischerviertel, walk along the Danube riverfront, admire the Ulm Minster from the outside, and enjoy the city's charming streets. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Ulm is in Swabia, so look for regional specialties like Maultaschen (Swabian ravioli) and Spätzle (egg noodles). Enjoy hearty German cuisine at local Gasthöfe. TikTok

Yes, the restaurants along the bike path are excellent, offering a variety of local and international dishes. Reddit

Most restaurants in Ulm offer vegetarian options, and many are increasingly providing vegan choices. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff. TikTok

Restaurants generally open for lunch around noon and for dinner from 6 PM. Many close between lunch and dinner service. TikTok

While not strictly food, experiencing the Nabada festival involves a lot of water fun, and local beer gardens offer a great atmosphere for enjoying a meal and drinks. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the Ulm Minster's towering spire, the picturesque Fischerviertel with its canals and half-timbered houses, and scenic views along the Danube riverfront. TikTok

Golden hour (early morning and late afternoon) offers beautiful light for photographing the Minster and the Fischerviertel. TikTok

Photography is generally allowed inside Ulm Minster, but it's always best to check for any specific restrictions or signs. TikTok

Drone photography regulations vary. Always check local rules and obtain necessary permits before flying a drone. The views from the Minster tower are spectacular without a drone. TikTok

If you're there during the Nabada festival, capturing the lively water battle on the Danube is a unique and fun photographic opportunity. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Danube Cycle Path offers a mix of experiences for families. While the section from Donaueschingen to Ulm has some hills that might be challenging for very young children, the path within and around Ulm is generally flatter and more manageable. Reddit Consider renting bikes with child seats or trailers if needed. Ulm itself has attractions like the Ulm Minster (climbing the tower might be for older kids) and the charming Fischerviertel which is fun to explore. TikTok The Donaubad Neu-Ulm water park with its slides offers a fun break from cycling. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

Cycling the Danube is a fantastic budget-friendly option. The path itself is free, and you can save money by packing picnics and utilizing supermarkets for snacks and meals. TikTok Ulm offers several free attractions, including exploring the Fischerviertel and walking along the Danube riverfront. TikTok Consider staying in hostels or guesthouses, which are often more affordable than hotels. Look for accommodations slightly outside the city center for potentially lower prices. TikTok

couples

For couples, the Danube Cycle Path offers romantic scenery and charming towns. Enjoy leisurely rides through picturesque landscapes, stopping in historic cities like Ulm to explore its Fischerviertel and enjoy riverside cafes. TikTok+1 Consider a tandem bike for a fun shared experience. In the evenings, enjoy local cuisine at a traditional German restaurant or find a cozy spot along the Danube to watch the sunset. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Cycling the Danube: What to Expect

The Danube Cycle Path (Donauradweg) is one of Europe's most popular cycling routes, stretching over 2,800 kilometers from its source in Germany to the Black Sea. The section from Ulm eastward is renowned for its scenic beauty, passing through charming towns, rolling hills, and picturesque river valleys. While many parts are well-maintained and traffic-free, it's crucial to be aware of varying conditions. Some segments, particularly in Germany, can be narrow, shared with pedestrians, or even transition onto secondary roads due to construction or terrain. Reddit

Cyclists often report that the Austrian section of the Danube Cycle Path is exceptionally well-developed and signposted. However, the German sections, while beautiful, can present more challenges. Be prepared for potential detours, construction sites that have been ongoing for years, and sections that run through reeds along the banks. The signage can also be confusing at times, making a reliable GPS device or map essential for navigation. Reddit

Despite these challenges, the rewards are immense. The scenery is consistently beautiful, with opportunities to explore historic cities like Ulm, with its magnificent Minster and charming Fischerviertel. The restaurants along the path are frequently praised for their quality, offering a perfect respite after a day of cycling. TikTokReddit

Ulm: A City of History and Innovation

Ulm, situated on the banks of the Danube, is a city rich in history and cultural significance. Its most iconic landmark is the Ulm Minster (Ulmer Münster), boasting the tallest church spire in the world at 161.5 meters. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape. TikTok+1

Beyond the Minster, Ulm's Fischerviertel (Fishermen's Quarter) is a must-visit. This charming area features narrow cobblestone streets, canals, and beautifully preserved half-timbered houses, creating a fairytale-like atmosphere. Here, you can also find the Schiefes Haus (Leaning House), a testament to the area's unique character. TikTok+1

Ulm also holds a special place in scientific history as the birthplace of Albert Einstein. The city celebrates its famous son with various references and exhibits. Furthermore, Ulm is a vibrant modern city, known for its universities and as a significant economic center, particularly in industries like meat processing, which is a surprising but notable aspect of its economy. TikTok+1

Festivals and Local Traditions

Ulm comes alive with unique local traditions, most notably the Nabada and the Lichterserenade. The Nabada, held during the Schwörmontag festival in July, is a spectacular and chaotic water battle on the Danube River. Thousands of people participate, transforming the river into a massive water fight, often accompanied by music and a festive atmosphere. TikTok+1

The Lichterserenade is another enchanting event, where the Danube banks are illuminated with countless lights, creating a magical ambiance. This is often accompanied by fireworks, making for a truly memorable spectacle. TikTok

These festivals offer a glimpse into the vibrant local culture and provide visitors with unforgettable experiences. If you plan your visit around these events, you're in for a treat, but be prepared for larger crowds and a lively, energetic atmosphere. TikTok+1

You may also like