Perched at the junction of three rivers – the Danube, Inn, and Ilz, Passau presents itself as an enchanting Bavarian city, balancing medieval charm with an energetic university vibe. Dubbed the "City of Three Rivers," this historic haven nestles right on the German-Austrian border and wows visitors with a remarkable geographical spectacle where the distinctively colored waters of the three rivers unite.

Passau's Mediterranean-style climate makes it appealing for a visit anytime throughout the year. However, the summers are especially joyous when outdoor cafes and beer gardens burst into life. The locals of Passau uphold a laid-back lifestyle, combining Bavarian norms with contemporary European attitudes, significantly influenced by its prominent student populace.

A distinguishing feature of Passau is its breath-taking Baroque architecture, notably embodied by St. Stephen's Cathedral, which houses the world's largest cathedral organ. The Old Town, known as Altstadt, is a labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets and brightly hued buildings, many of which hark back to the 17th century when Italian architects assisted in reconstructing the city after a catastrophic fire.

The city's food culture revolves around robust Bavarian staples such as Weißwurst (white sausage) and pretzels, but the local star of Strudel in all its myriad variants is worth a try. For a quintessential Passau experience, head to the Ortspitze and watch the confluence of the three rivers, where the contrasting hues of the rivers meld together.