Wachau: A Scenic Jewel of Austria
Discover the stunning beauty and rich cultural heritage of Wachau, a UNESCO World Heritage site along the Danube River in Austria.
Nestled along the Danube River, Wachau is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for its picturesque landscapes, historic castles, and charming vineyards. Ideal for travelers seeking a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, this enchanting region offers a unique experience for every visitor.
A brief summary to Wachau
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Local tips
- Visit in late spring or early fall for the best weather and fewer crowds.
- Consider taking a boat tour on the Danube for a unique perspective of the valley.
- Don't miss the local wine tastings; Wachau is famous for its white wines.
- Plan a visit to Melk Abbey for stunning architecture and panoramic views.
- Explore the charming village of Dürnstein, known for its blue tower and medieval ruins.
Getting There
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Car
If you're driving to Wachau Valley, take the A1 motorway (Westautobahn) towards St. Pölten. Take the exit for the B33 towards Krems and follow the signs to Wachau Valley. The scenic route along the Danube River is well-marked, and you'll enjoy breathtaking views of vineyards and historical sites. Parking is available in various towns such as Dürnstein and Spitz, but be sure to check for any parking fees.
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Public Transportation
To reach Wachau Valley by public transport, take the train to Krems an der Donau from Vienna (approximately 1 hour). Upon arrival at Krems, transfer to the bus (Line 100) which travels directly to Dürnstein and other Wachau towns. The bus ride offers a beautiful view of the valley. A one-way train ticket costs around €12, and the bus fare is approximately €3.
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Boat
For a unique experience, consider taking a boat cruise on the Danube River. Depart from Krems or Melk and enjoy the stunning scenery along the way. The boats usually run from April to October, and prices vary depending on the duration of the trip, generally starting around €20 for a one-way ticket. Make sure to check the schedule ahead of time, as it may vary by season.
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Bike Rental
Exploring Wachau Valley by bike is a popular option. You can rent bicycles in Krems or Melk and follow the well-marked bike paths along the Danube. This allows you to stop at wineries and quaint villages at your leisure. Rental costs typically range from €10 to €15 per day. Ensure that you wear a helmet and follow local traffic rules.
Discover more about Wachau
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Renaissancehotel Raffelsberger HOF
0.7 km
Discover the charm of Weißenkirchen in der Wachau at the Renaissancehotel Raffelsberger HOF, your serene retreat in Austria's breathtaking landscape.
Pfarrkirche Mariae Himmelfahrt
1.0 km
Experience the tranquility and architectural charm of Pfarrkirche Mariae Himmelfahrt, a serene Catholic church in the heart of Austria's Wachau Valley.
Parish Church Weißenkirchen in the Wachau
1.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Parish Church Weißenkirchen in the heart of the Wachau Valley, a stunning blend of history, architecture, and serene landscapes.
Weingut Holzapfel Gutshofrestaurant Prandtauerhof
1.1 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Wachau at Weingut Holzapfel, where fine wines and gourmet cuisine create unforgettable moments.
Kienstockspitze
1.3 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kienstockspitze, a premier hiking area in Austria that offers stunning views and diverse trails for all adventurers.
Mugler
1.5 km
Explore the serene beauty of Mugler, a scenic spot in Gemeinde Rossatz-Arnsdorf, perfect for photography and peaceful nature retreats.
Hofmeisterei Hirtzberger
1.7 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Austrian fine dining at Hofmeisterei Hirtzberger in the enchanting Wachau Valley, where culinary artistry meets local tradition.
ATN Dürnstein/Wachau Fähranlegestelle
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Wachau Valley from the Dürnstein Ferry Terminal, your gateway to Austria's scenic landscapes and rich history.
Start Vogelbergsteig
3.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Vogelbergsteig hiking area in Dürnstein, Austria, offering stunning views and a rejuvenating outdoor experience.
Dürnsteiner Kanzel
4.1 km
Discover breathtaking views of the Danube and the charming town of Dürnstein at the Dürnsteiner Kanzel, a must-see observation deck in Austria.
Höhereck
4.4 km
Explore the serene beauty of Höhereck Wildlife Refuge in Dürnstein, Austria, a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Hoher Stein
5.3 km
Discover the enchanting beauty of Hoher Stein, a premier hiking destination in Arnsdorf, Austria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Marterl Pfaffenbergweg
6.8 km
Explore the tranquil Marterl Pfaffenbergweg in Krems an der Donau, an enchanting tourist attraction showcasing local culture amidst beautiful nature.
Start Wanderweg Burgruine Aggstein
10.1 km
Discover the breathtaking vistas and historical charm of Wanderweg Burgruine Aggstein, a must-visit hiking area in the heart of Austria's Wachau valley.
Göttweig Abbey
10.5 km
Discover the historical wonders and breathtaking views at Göttweig Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a serene retreat in Austria.
Unmissable attractions to see
Kupferwandl
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kupferwandl, a premier hiking area in Austria with stunning landscapes and trails for all adventure levels.
Wachauer Nase
0.4 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Wachauer Nase in Austria, a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Memorial to priest Erich Hauer
0.4 km
Explore the serene Memorial to Priest Erich Hauer, a peaceful tribute to faith and community service in a beautiful park setting.
Steinige Ries
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking wildlife and serene landscapes of Steinige Ries, a hidden gem in Rossatz, Austria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Wachauer Auge
0.6 km
Experience the stunning vistas of Wachauer Auge, a breathtaking observation deck in the heart of Wachau Valley, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Silberne Weintraube
0.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and rich history of Silberne Weintraube in Austria's stunning Wachau Valley, a perfect destination for every traveler.
Weingut Hermenegild Mang
0.8 km
Experience the exquisite wines and breathtaking views at Weingut Hermenegild Mang in the scenic Wachau Valley, Austria.
Steinerne Sepp
0.9 km
Discover Steinerne Sepp in Weißenkirchen, a stunning tourist attraction showcasing captivating stone sculptures amidst the breathtaking scenery of the Wachau Valley.
Teisenhoferhof Wachaumuseum
1.0 km
Explore the captivating history of the Wachau Valley at Teisenhoferhof Wachaumuseum, a must-see destination for all history enthusiasts.
Vino Taurus
1.2 km
Experience breathtaking views and the serene beauty of the Wachau Valley at Vino Taurus, the ultimate observation deck for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts.
Kügerlwand
1.5 km
Explore the stunning vistas and tranquil landscapes of Kügerlwand in Austria's picturesque Wachau Valley.
Aussichtswarte am Seekopf
1.6 km
Experience stunning panoramic views at Aussichtswarte am Seekopf, the ultimate observation deck for nature lovers in Austria's breathtaking landscapes.
Weingut Braun
1.6 km
Explore Weingut Braun in Wachau Valley, where exquisite wines meet breathtaking vineyard vistas, offering an unforgettable winery experience.
Kirche Wösendorf
1.8 km
Discover the tranquility and rich history of Kirche Wösendorf, a stunning church nestled in a charming Austrian village.
Weingut Langmayer
1.8 km
Explore Weingut Langmayer, a stunning winery in Wachau Valley, offering exquisite wines and beautiful vineyard views for an unforgettable experience.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Heinzle
0.6 km
Discover authentic Austrian cuisine at Restaurant Heinzle in Weißenkirchen - where tradition meets taste amidst stunning vineyard landscapes.
KIRCHENWIRT Hotel Restaurant Wachau
1.0 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Kirchenwirt Hotel Restaurant in the scenic Wachau Valley - a perfect blend of flavor and hospitality.
Weingut und Restaurant Josef Jamek
1.0 km
Experience exquisite wines and authentic Austrian cuisine at Weingut und Restaurant Josef Jamek in Joching.
Achleiten Stube
1.1 km
Discover Achleiten Stube: Where Italian Flavors Meet Austrian Hospitality in the Stunning Wachau Valley.
Landgasthaus Essl
1.3 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Landgasthaus Essl in Rührsdorf - where tradition meets taste in a cozy setting.
Heuriger Fischer - Wein- und Obstbau
1.4 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine and exquisite local wines at Heuriger Fischer in Rührsdorf's picturesque vineyards.
Die Flößerei in Rossatz
2.7 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine with stunning views at Die Flößerei in Rossatz - a culinary journey through local flavors.
Weinschenke St. Michael
3.2 km
Discover exquisite regional cuisine and fine wines at Weinschenke St. Michael in scenic Wachau Valley.
Gartenhotel & Weingut Pfeffel Dürnstein
3.3 km
Experience relaxation and exquisite dining at Gartenhotel & Weingut Pfeffel Dürnstein in Austria's stunning Wachau Valley.
Restaurant Schloss Dürnstein
3.3 km
Experience exquisite dining at Restaurant Schloss Dürnstein with stunning views and authentic Austrian cuisine.
Restaurant Richard Löwenherz
3.4 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine with stunning views at Restaurant Richard Löwenherz in Dürnstein.
Küffer Keller
3.4 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Küffer Keller in Dürnstein - where local flavors meet stunning views along the Danube.
Gasthaus Kuenringer
3.4 km
Experience authentic Austrian cuisine at Gasthaus Kuenringer in Dürnstein, where generous portions meet breathtaking views.
Dürnsteinerhof
3.4 km
Discover authentic Austrian cuisine at Dürnsteinerhof in Dürnstein – where tradition meets taste amidst breathtaking scenery.
Altes Presshaus
3.4 km
Discover authentic Austrian cuisine and fine local wines at Altes Presshaus in Dürnstein's picturesque setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gärtnerei Hick
0.7 km
Discover the beauty of nature at Gärtnerei Hick, a floral haven in the heart of the Wachau Valley, offering unique plants and stunning arrangements.
Vinothek Thal Wachau
0.7 km
Discover the finest local wines and regional delicacies at Vinothek Thal Wachau, a charming wine store in the heart of Wachau Valley.
Wachauer Bauernladen
0.8 km
Explore Wachauer Bauernladen, where local craftsmanship meets the flavors of the Wachau Valley, perfect for memorable souvenirs.
SPAR
0.8 km
Discover local flavors and everyday essentials at SPAR in Weißenkirchen, a charming supermarket filled with Austrian delights.
PETfit
0.9 km
Explore PETfit in Weißenkirchen, a top-notch pet supply store dedicated to keeping your furry friends happy and healthy with premium products.
Trafik Glaser
1.0 km
Explore Trafik Glaser in Weißenkirchen: Your gateway to local magazines, crafts, and the heart of Wachau Valley charm.
Wieser Wachau Firmensitz & Ab-Hof-Shop
1.8 km
Experience the finest local flavors at Wieser Wachau, your go-to gourmet grocery store and local alcohol manufacturer in the heart of Wachau Valley.
Eva Denk
1.8 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Wösendorf at Eva Denk, your go-to grocery store for local produce and delicious goods in the Wachau Valley.
Schloss Greisslerei
3.4 km
Discover the exquisite flavors of Austria at Schloss Greisslerei, a delightful deli in Dürnstein offering local delicacies and artisanal products.
House of colors - handmade Art by Corinna Kirchhof
3.4 km
Explore the artistic charm of Dürnstein at the House of Colors, where handmade art and unique fashion accessories await.
Donau Stein Design
3.4 km
Explore the exquisite craftsmanship of Donau Stein Design, where jewelry meets artistry in the heart of Dürnstein, Austria.
Dürnsteindl
3.4 km
Explore the heart of Dürnstein at Dürnsteindl, where local craftsmanship meets unforgettable souvenirs in a picturesque Austrian setting.
AlexAndrA Fashion
3.4 km
Explore distinctive clothing styles and local culture at AlexAndrA Fashion in the heart of Dürnstein, a true gem for fashion lovers.
Domäne Wachau Shop 11a Dürnstein Altstadt
3.4 km
Explore the exquisite wines of Domäne Wachau in Dürnstein, a picturesque winery in the heart of Austria's Wachau Valley.
Wachauer Gift Shop - Karin Jungmayer
3.4 km
Discover the charm of Austria at Wachauer Gift Shop, where unique gifts and local craftsmanship await every traveler.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Johann Mang
0.8 km
Discover the exquisite local wines and warm hospitality at Johann Mang Wine Bar in the heart of the Wachau Valley.
Das Bogerl
0.9 km
Discover the charm of Das Bogerl, a cozy bar in the heart of Wachau, where delightful drinks and local culture come together.
Weinterrasse Kropf
1.0 km
Experience the flavors of the Wachau Valley at Weinterrasse Kropf, where local wines and delicious cuisine come together in a stunning setting.
Ferdl Denk
1.0 km
Discover the elegance of Ferdl Denk, a premier winery in the Wachau Valley, offering exquisite wines, cozy accommodations, and stunning vineyard views.
Weingut Franz ZOTTL
1.1 km
Experience the enchanting Weingut Franz ZOTTL, where exquisite wines and authentic Austrian hospitality come together in a breathtaking vineyard setting.
Pulker`s Heuriger
1.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Austria at Pulker's Heuriger, a charming wine bar in Rührsdorf, offering local wines and delightful cuisine.
Karl Kronberger
1.8 km
Experience the finest local wines at Karl Kronberger, a cozy wine bar nestled in the stunning Wachau Valley, perfect for relaxation and exploration.
Brauhaus Wösendorf Friesenbichler OG
1.8 km
Discover the essence of Austrian brews and hearty cuisine at Brauhaus Wösendorf, nestled in the stunning Wachau Valley.
Weingut/Heuriger Eigl
2.0 km
Experience the flavors of the Wachau Valley at Weingut/Heuriger Eigl, a top winery for wine lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
Weingut Pomaßl
3.0 km
Discover the charm of Weingut Pomaßl, where exquisite wines meet stunning Wachau Valley landscapes, perfect for a serene getaway.
Beach Bar Rossatzbach
3.0 km
Experience tranquility at Beach Bar Rossatzbach, a serene riverside bar perfect for relaxation and enjoying delightful beverages.
Schnitzer's seit 1988
3.4 km
Discover the flavors of Austria at Schnitzer's, a charming bar and restaurant in Dürnstein, known for its exquisite local dishes and fine wines.
Erni's Schmackerlbox
3.4 km
Experience the charm of Erni's Schmackerlbox in Dürnstein, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere invite you to unwind amidst stunning views.
Johannes Glück
4.5 km
Discover the charm of Johannes Glück, a cozy wine bar in Hofarnsdorf offering exceptional local wines and a delightful atmosphere.
Birgit Machhörndl-Muthenthaler M-Alte Post Bar
5.3 km
Discover the cozy atmosphere of Birgit Machhörndl-Muthenthaler M-Alte Post Bar in Spitz, a perfect spot to relax after exploring the scenic Wachau Valley.
