Passau

Passau in the southeast of Germany is located at the Austrian border. Situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz, Passau is worldwide known as "The Three Rivers City".

The earliest evidence of human settlement dates back to the Neolithic. Passau was part of the Roman Empire for more than 400 years. It became an Episcopal seat in the year 739 AD. Passau was an independent prince bishopric for over 600 years. Finally in 1803 Passau was annexed into Bavaria. The setting of the Old Town, created by Italian baroque masters in the 17th century, shows soaring towers, picturesque places, enchanting promenades and romantic lanes.

In the heart of Passau on the Old Town’s highest point rises St. Steven’s Cathedral, in which the world’s largest cathedral organ sounds. Sitting high above the rivers, the majestic fortress "Veste Oberhaus" on the Danube’s side and the Pilgrimage Church "Mariahilf" on the Inn’s side frame the city outstandingly beauty. Passau with its unique charm and its atmosphere is one of the most beautiful and spectacular German cities on the Danube.

Passau's Highlights
The Old Town of Passau, rebuilt in the 17th century by Italian baroque masters after a devastating town fire, is outstandingly beautiful. In the heart of Passau rises the Cathedral of St. Steven with its three characteristic, green onion-domed towers. Most of the sights are in Passau’s Old Town: many churches, the New Bishop’s Residence, the magnificent gothic Town Hall and most of Passau’s museums.Picturesque places, romantic lanes and enchanting riverfront promenades invite visitors to take a rest and enjoy the beautiful scenery. The fortress "Veste Oberhaus" in the North and the Pilgrimage Church "Mariahilf" in the South are enthroned high above Passau’s Old Town.

Danube Riverboat Trips
Passau and its rivers! The crusaders and adventurers who were carried by the rivers all the way to the Orient, the merchants and salt traders – they have all paid their visit to Passau. Today the Danube plays the most important role of our three rivers in the European commercial shipping and the international cruise tourism. Further information and contact details will be granted by the Tourist Office Passau.