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PASSAU
Known as the City of Three Rivers , Passau sits at the confluence of the Danube , Inn and Ilz . In 1662 , following a devastating fire , it was rebuilt in the Italian baroque style , earning it the additional nickname , the Bavarian Venice .
Beyond the riverside promenade , there ’ s a picture-postcard Old Town where the squares are lined with the former homes of wealthy merchants . Wandering the narrow streets , it ’ s impossible to miss St . Stephen ’ s Cathedral , rebuilt in 1682 on the highest spot in the historic neighbourhood . Its other claim to fame is having one of the world ’ s biggest church organs , with 17,974 pipes and 233 registers ; you can buy tickets for the rousing daily recitals starting at noon . On the way back to the ship , keep an eye ( and ear ) out for the 14th-century town hall on the waterfront . The building is home to Bavaria ’ s largest glockenspiel clock , and several times a day the melodious chimes
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ring out across the city . If you ’ re feeling energetic , you can climb a ‘ heavenly ladder ’ of 321 covered steps to the pilgrimage church of Mariahilf , across a bridge on the Inn side of the river , or join your Avalon adventure host for a hike next to the Ilz .
Then relax in the afternoon as your ship crosses into Austria and navigates the Schlögen Oxbow , a dramatic horseshoe bend on the Danube .
LINZ
Austria ’ s third-largest city is a vibrant UNESCO City of Media Arts and a former European Capital of Culture . The overnight mooring spot is close to the futuristic and eye-catching Ars Electronica , which is lit by a changing kaleidoscope of colours at night . The following morning , take a look inside this amazing high-tech arts centre , which includes a thought-provoking new artificial intelligence exhibition . Or visit the equally striking Schlossmuseum , which combines
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From left : Traditionally styled dirndl dresses for sale in Linz , Austria ; St . Stephen ’ s Cathedral , Passau , Germany ; The colourful flower beds and the Palace at Mirabell Gardens Salzburg , Austria |
images : awl images ; alamy |
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