CME Cruises Visiting Passau

Passau is a town in Lower Bavaria, Germany, known as the Dreiflüssestadt or "City of Three Rivers," where the Danube is joined by the Inn from the south and the Ilz from the north. This unique geography creates a stunning natural spectacle at the confluence (Dreiflüsseeck), where you can observe the distinct colors of the three rivers merging. Your day in this enchanting city is one of effortless discovery, as the compact, walkable Old Town (Altstadt) unfolds directly from the riverbank. Stroll through narrow cobblestone lanes flanked by Italianate baroque architecture, a legacy of Italian master builders who rebuilt the city after a 17th-century fire. The undisputed highlight is St. Stephen's Cathedral, a magnificent structure housing the largest cathedral organ in the world. Time your visit to experience one of the brief but powerful daily organ concerts—a truly unforgettable auditory experience. For a breathtaking panoramic view, make the rewarding ascent to Veste Oberhaus, the formidable fortress perched high above the city. From here, the entire peninsula and the meeting of the rivers are laid out before you. For a more relaxed pace, explore the Höllgasse, an artists' alley filled with small galleries and studios, or simply find a seat at a riverside café to savor a coffee and pastry. Passau’s blend of stunning natural beauty, architectural grandeur, and rich musical heritage offers a day of serene cultural immersion, providing a perfect and accessible escape.