The best attractions in the Wachau valley

The Wachau, a picturesque region in Lower Austria, is known for its impressive landscapes, historical sites, and culinary delights. Here are some of the best excursion destinations in the Wachau that you should definitely visit:

Dürnstein, famous for its distinctive blue church and impressive castle ruins, is a must-visit for every Wachau visitor. The castle ruins, where Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned, offer breathtaking views of the Danube and the surrounding vineyards. The idyllic old town with its narrow streets and historic buildings invites you to linger and explore. Don't miss the chance to visit Stift Dürnstein, a baroque jewel rich in history and art. A stroll through the vineyards around Dürnstein completes your visit perfectly, giving you the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque landscape of the Wachau to the fullest.

Melk Abbey, an impressive baroque monastery, is one of the most significant cultural monuments in Austria and an absolute highlight in the Wachau. The monastery beautifully overlooks the Danube and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The main attractions of the abbey include the magnificent abbey church with its intricate frescoes, the impressive library with thousands of historical volumes, and the beautiful baroque gardens. Visitors can participate in guided tours to learn more about the history and artworks of the abbey. Particularly noteworthy are the magnificent halls, such as the Marble Hall and the Imperial Corridor, which reflect the splendor and wealth of the Baroque era. Melk Abbey is not only a place of history and culture but also a place of reflection and tranquility.

Book the all-inclusive option of the Wachau day tour from Vienna Sightseeing Tours and explore the impressive Melk Abbey from the inside!

Krems an der Donau is one of the oldest cities in Austria and an important stop on your tour through the Wachau. The city impresses with its well-preserved old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the charming streets, visit the caricature museum, and enjoy the local cuisine. Particularly worth seeing are the Stein Gate, the landmark of Krems, and the Piarist Church, which towers high above the city. Krems is also an excellent starting point for wine lovers, as numerous wineries in the area offer excellent Wachau wines.

Above the impressive Danube rises the Benedictine monastery of Göttweig Abbey, a significant cultural monument in Austria. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the magnificent abbey church, the baroque interiors, and the idyllic monastery garden. The monastery impresses with its rich history and spiritual significance and offers a fascinating panoramic view over the Danube Valley.

More information at https://www.stiftgoettweig.at/portal/en/home .

Visitors can explore the remains of this historic castle and enjoy breathtaking views of the Danube Valley and the surrounding vineyards. The castle has a long and eventful history dating back to the 12th century and was once an important strategic point along the Danube. Today, the castle is a popular excursion destination, offering visitors the opportunity to delve into the past and discover the secrets of this ancient fortress.

More information at https://www.ruineaggstein.at/en/ .

For cyclists, the Danube Cycle Path is a highlight. The route leads through the entire Wachau and offers breathtaking views and many opportunities for breaks in charming villages and wineries.

Grafenegg Castle, an outstanding example of 19th-century romantic architecture, rises above the picturesque landscape of the Wachau. In addition to its imposing appearance, the castle is especially known for its concerts and festivals, including the renowned Grafenegg Festival in summer. The festival attracts music lovers from all over the world every year and offers a wide range of concerts, from classical music to jazz and world music. The unique atmosphere of the castle and its surrounding parklands contributes significantly to the special experience and makes a visit to Grafenegg a memorable cultural highlight in the Wachau.

More information at https://www.grafenegg.com/en/castle .

The Venusium in Willendorf is a small museum dedicated to the Venus of Willendorf, one of the most famous prehistoric figurines.

More information at https://www.venusium.at/Info-Dateien/englishhtm .

A boat trip on the Danube is a wonderful way to experience the beauty of the Wachau. As you leisurely glide along the river, you can admire the breathtaking vineyards, charming villages, and impressive castle ruins that line the banks. The view from the water offers a completely new perspective on this picturesque region and allows you to enjoy the Wachau in all its glory. Whether you're planning a romantic tour for two, a family outing, or a relaxing day alone, a boat trip in the Wachau is an unforgettable experience. Let yourself be enchanted by the peace and beauty of the Danube and discover the diverse excursion destinations that make this unique region so special.

Experience the beautiful Wachau with Vienna Sightseeing Tours on a day trip from Vienna. The tour includes a drive through the picturesque Danube Valley, visits to Dürnstein and Spitz, and a boat trip on the Danube in summer. Additionally, you can visit the impressive Melk Abbey. Choose between various options that combine boat trips and admission.

For more information and booking options, visit the Vienna Sightseeing Tours website.