Danube Cycling Route Through Hungary

The Hungarian section of the Danube cycling route is part of EuroVelo 6, one of Europe's most popular long-distance cycling routes stretching from the Atlantic coast to the Black Sea. Within Hungary, the route follows the Danube River for approximately 600 kilometers from Rajka at the Austrian-Slovak border to Mohacs near the Croatian border.

This is arguably Hungary's finest cycling experience. The path passes through the capital Budapest, the dramatic Danube Bend landscape, several historic fortress towns, and the protected Gemenc Forest, a Natura 2000 site that is home to rare wildlife including white-tailed eagles and black storks.

Route Overview: Rajka to Mohacs

The route naturally divides into several distinct sections, each with its own character and highlights. Most cyclists ride south (downstream), which makes the most of gentle tailwinds and the slight elevation drop. Here is a breakdown of the major segments:

Rajka to Gyor (85 km)

Starting at the Austrian-Hungarian border, the path crosses the flat Szigetkoz region, a flood plain between two branches of the Danube. This area is remarkably green and quiet, with small villages and farmland. The cycling surface is mostly asphalt, with some gravel sections near river dykes. Gyor itself is worth a half-day stop for its baroque old town and thermal baths.

Gyor to Komarom (90 km)

This section follows the southern bank through agricultural landscapes. Komarom is home to the impressive Monostori Fortress, one of the largest fortification systems in Central Europe. The cycling path quality varies here, with some sections running alongside roads. Cross the Danube at Komarom to visit the Slovak twin city of Komarno if time permits.

Komarom to Budapest (110 km)

The route approaches Budapest through the Danube Bend, the most dramatic landscape along the entire Hungarian section. Near Esztergom, the country's former capital, the river turns sharply south between forested hills. This stretch passes through Visegrad (with its hilltop castle and panoramic views), Szentendre (a charming artists' town), and finally enters Budapest along the riverfront cycle path.

Budapest (Rest Day)

Most cyclists spend at least one full day in Budapest. The city has an expanding network of cycling lanes, making it possible to explore many of its major attractions by bike. Notable cycling-friendly attractions include Margaret Island (a car-free park in the middle of the Danube), the Buda Castle district, and the riverside promenade from the Parliament to Rackeve.

Budapest to Dunaujvaros (80 km)

Heading south from Budapest, the landscape flattens into the Great Hungarian Plain. This section is straightforward cycling through small towns and farmland. Dunaujvaros is a mid-sized city built in the 1950s that offers good accommodation options and a chance to resupply.

Dunaujvaros to Baja (120 km)

The route continues through increasingly rural terrain, passing through the Gemenc Forest, one of Hungary's largest floodplain forests. This Natura 2000 protected area is home to red deer, wild boar, and over 200 bird species. Some ferry crossings may be required in this section, so check schedules in advance. Baja is known for its fish soup festival and relaxed riverside atmosphere.

Baja to Mohacs (60 km)

The final section runs through flat agricultural land to Mohacs, a town famous for its annual Busojaras carnival (a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage event). The cycling infrastructure here is simpler but adequate. From Mohacs, you can continue south into Croatia or take a train back to Budapest.

Practical Information

Best Time to Ride

The ideal months for cycling the Danube route are May through September. Spring (May-June) offers pleasant temperatures and lush green landscapes, while autumn (September-October) brings warm days and the possibility of wine harvest events along the way. Mid-summer (July-August) can be hot, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius on the plains.

Accommodation

Along the northern section (Rajka to Budapest), accommodation is easy to find in towns every 20-30 km. Options range from budget guesthouses (pension/panzio) at 8,000-15,000 HUF per night to mid-range hotels. In the southern section (Budapest to Mohacs), spacing between towns is wider, so plan your overnight stops carefully. Camping is possible at several designated sites along the route.

Bike Rental and Services

Bike rental shops operate in Budapest, Gyor, and Szentendre. In Budapest, expect to pay around 3,000-5,000 HUF per day for a touring bike. Repair shops are available in most medium-sized towns, but carry a basic repair kit (spare tube, tire levers, multi-tool) for sections between towns.

Getting There and Away

Rajka is accessible by train from Budapest (via Gyor) with a bicycle. Alternatively, start from Bratislava or Vienna and ride into Hungary. At the southern end, Mohacs has regular train connections back to Budapest. Most Hungarian intercity trains accept bicycles with a small surcharge.