Passau, Germany, is located 119 mi/191 km east-northeast of Munich at the convergence of three rivers: the Danube, Ilz and Inn. From high up the hill overlooking the city, you can actually see the different colors of the rivers coming together.
A number of long-distance bike routes converge in Passau as well, making it a perfect stopover for cyclists. The town was rebuilt after fires in the 17th century, giving the town the baroque—and almost Italian—flair it has today. Take a relaxed stroll—or ride—through the Old Town and monastic district to Ortspitze to get the best view of the rivers.
St. Stephen's cathedral has one of the world's largest church organs, and there are daily concerts in the summer. Passau merits a brief detour, especially if you're traveling from Germany to Vienna, Austria. The city is also a great starting point for excursion into the Bayerischer Wald (Bavarian Forest), which includes a national park where wolves and lynxes still roam free.
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