A Laid-Back City In Western Europe Boasts Stunning Architecture And Sights For Any Budget

German cities like Berlin and Munich tend to steal the spotlight, but this diverse country's real magic often lies in its lesser-known corners. One of the best ways to take in the scenic beauty of Germany is to visit some of its smaller cities. And visitors often describe the city of Passau as a relaxed, student-friendly place where you can admire Baroque architecture, stroll along three rivers, and enjoy breathtaking views — all without blowing your budget.

Often called "the Venice of Bavaria," Passau sits at the crossroads of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers and features a Mediterranean-style Old Town with gorgeous Baroque buildings. The Three Rivers Boat Cruise from passenger shipping company Wurm & Noé is a great way to start your visit. For about $17, the trip offers visitors lovely views of St. Stephan's Cathedral, Oberhaus Castle, and the colorful waterfront facades. 

Exploring the Altstadt (Old Town) on foot is free and one of the best ways to experience Passau's charm. For around $2, you can visit the Passau Cathedral Museum, and for $7 at noon, catch an organ concert inside the cathedral featuring one of the world's largest church organs. And be sure not to miss the Old Town's striking Rathaus (town hall), a Venetian-style complex with a mural-filled interior. From there, head to the Inn Promenade, a peaceful riverside path perfect for café breaks or flea market browsing (on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month). History fans can also check out the remains of a Roman fortress from A.D. 300 and visit the Roman Museum Kastell Boiotro, which contains hundreds of artifacts from the area's period of Roman rule, for just $6.

Some of Passau's best views are earned the old-fashioned way — on foot. From the Danube, hike up to one of Germany's must-see castles: Oberhaus Castle (about 10 minutes with a decent incline) for a sweeping city panorama. At the top, reward yourself with Kaiserschmarrn — bite-sized, fluffy pancake pieces dusted with powdered sugar and served with fruit preserves — at Das Oberhaus restaurant. Entry to the castle museum is $8.

Up for more walking? Continue along the Golden Trail, which wraps around the castle and offers tranquil forest views. If you're visiting in summer, check out Sommernachtkino (summer night cinema), an open-air movie night held in the castle courtyard — perfect for a warm evening under the stars, and a fun space to practice your German (even English films are dubbed.) 

Another nearby highlight is the Wallfahrtstiege, a 321-step staircase adorned with religious artworks, which leads to the Wallfahrtskirche Mariahilf, a 17th-century pilgrimage church that's still open to visitors today. For longer hikes, swing by the tourist information center in the Rathaus or check Passau's official tourism site, which offers routes and guided hiking tours.

Passau's main airport hubs are Munich and Vienna, both of which offer frequent train connections to Passau — easy, scenic, and only a few hours away. Hotel prices are refreshingly reasonable: a standard double room runs about $120 per night, while budget options include the Rotel Inn along the Danube (starting around $60 per night) and HI Hostel Jugendherberge, a dorm-style hostel that's part of the Oberhaus Castle complex.

If you have a few extra days, consider hopping on a bike and joining the stream of cyclists riding the Danube Cycle Path to Vienna. You'll see groups heading out each morning from Passau, typically riding about 50 to 70 miles per day: first stop Linz, then Melk, and finally Vienna. Bike rentals from Rent A Bike Passau cost $17 per day, and for $45, they'll even collect your bike from your hotel in Vienna — no return trip necessary, helping you complete your first overseas bike tour without a hitch.

While summer is ideal for outdoor adventures, don't overlook Passau in winter. From late November through December, the city stands out for hosting one of Europe's incredible Christmas markets. The festive market lights up the Domplatz central square with gingerbread, handmade gifts, and glowing stalls. Entry is free, and yes, the overpriced glühwein (mulled wine) is still totally worth it.