St. Stephan's Cathedral: A Majestic Symbol of Faith and Art
Explore the breathtaking St. Stephan's Cathedral in Passau, a baroque masterpiece featuring stunning architecture and one of the world's largest organs.
St. Stephan's Cathedral, located in the picturesque city of Passau, Germany, stands as a remarkable testament to the region's architectural and spiritual heritage. Constructed in the 17th century, this Catholic cathedral is celebrated for its striking baroque style, featuring an elaborately designed façade and a striking twin-towered silhouette that dominates the city's skyline. As you approach the cathedral, the grandeur of its design becomes increasingly evident, with intricate details that tell stories of faith and artistry. Inside, visitors are welcomed by a serene ambiance and the captivating beauty of its interior, adorned with stunning frescoes, opulent altars, and a renowned organ that is one of the largest in the world, boasting over 17,000 pipes. The acoustics of the cathedral provide an extraordinary experience during concerts and services alike, drawing music enthusiasts from near and far to revel in its extraordinary sound. St. Stephan's Cathedral is not just a place of worship; it is a cultural landmark that offers a window into the rich history of Passau, known as the 'City of Three Rivers.' The surrounding Domplatz serves as a lovely gathering area, where visitors can relax and enjoy the picturesque views of the cathedral and the vibrant life of the city. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the tower for a breathtaking panoramic view of Passau, the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers, and the rolling hills beyond. Whether you are drawn by faith, history, or art, a visit to St. Stephan's Cathedral is an essential part of any trip to this enchanting city.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Don't miss the chance to attend an organ concert if available during your visit.
- Take the time to explore the surrounding Domplatz for local cafes and shops.
- Consider climbing the tower for stunning views of Passau and the surrounding rivers.
- Check the cathedral's website for any special events or exhibitions during your visit.
A brief summary to St. Stephan's Cathedral
- Domplatz, Passau, Ilzstadt, 94032, DE
- +498513930
- Visit website
- Monday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Thursday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Friday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Saturday 6:30 am-7 pm
- Sunday 6:30 am-7 pm
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car from the center of Šumava National Park, take the road E49 towards the town of Passau. The journey will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. Once you reach Passau, follow signs for 'Domplatz' to arrive at St. Stephan's Cathedral located at Domplatz, 94032 Passau, Germany. Ensure you have some coins or a card for parking fees, which may range from €1 to €2 per hour depending on the parking area.
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Public Transportation
To reach St. Stephan's Cathedral from Šumava National Park using public transportation, take a bus to the town of Český Krumlov. From there, catch a train to Passau. The bus ride will take about 1 hour, and the train journey will take an additional 30 minutes. Once you arrive in Passau, it’s a short 10-minute walk to St. Stephan's Cathedral. Follow the signs to 'Domplatz'. Be aware of ticket costs: the bus may cost around €5, and the train ticket could be approximately €10.
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Bicycle
For a more adventurous route, consider biking to St. Stephan's Cathedral. Rent a bicycle in the Šumava National Park and follow the scenic cycling routes towards Passau. The distance is roughly 30 kilometers and can take about 2 to 3 hours depending on your pace. Once you reach Passau, navigate to Domplatz where the cathedral is located. Be sure to wear a helmet and have a bike lock. There may be rental fees for the bicycle, typically around €10 per day.
Attractions Nearby to St. Stephan's Cathedral
- Innbrückbogen
- Stadttheater Passau
- New Bishop's Residence
- Residenzplatz
- Wittelsbach Fountain
- Domplatz Passau
- Marien Bridge
- Glasmuseum Passau
- Mahnmal für die Opfer des Nationalsozialismus
- Aussichtspunkt Veste Oberhaus
- Schaibling Tower
- Oberhausmuseum
- Veste Oberhaus
- Wehrgang Veste Oberhaus
- Wallfahrtskirche Mariahilf
Landmarks nearby to St. Stephan's Cathedral
- Pram
- Museumsdorf Bayerischer Wald
- Neuschönau Bavarian Forest
- Hans-Eisenmann House
- Innviertler Versailles
- Tourismusverband s'Innviertel
- Holiday region Bavarian Forest National Park GmbH
- Innviertler Künstlergilde
- LEADER-Region Mitten im Innviertel
- Tourismusverband s'Innviertel - Tourist Info Ried
- Šumavský Balvan
- castle ruins Kunžvart
- Stožec
- Buková slať
- Prameny Vltavy