Weltenburg Abbey: A Bavarian Benedictine Gem

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Discover Bavaria's oldest monastery, a Baroque masterpiece with a world-renowned brewery, nestled in the stunning Danube Gorge near Kelheim.

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Weltenburg Abbey

Weltenburg Abbey, a Benedictine monastery near Kelheim, Bavaria, is believed to be the oldest monastery in Bavaria, founded around 617 AD. Perched on a peninsula in the Danube River, within the dramatic Danube Gorge, it's renowned for its stunning Baroque architecture and its claim as the world's oldest monastic brewery, dating back to 1050.

A brief summary to Weltenburg Abbey

Asamstraße 32, Kelheim, 93309, DE
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Local tips

Visit during the weekdays to avoid larger crowds and fully enjoy the tranquility of the abbey.
Try the locally brewed beer in the beer garden; it's a unique experience you won't want to miss.
Bring comfortable walking shoes for the hiking trails that offer stunning views of the Danube River.
Check the abbey's website for any special events or guided tours that may enhance your visit.
Don't forget your camera; the architecture and natural scenery are perfect for photography enthusiasts.

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Getting There

Public Transport

From Kelheim, take bus line 6018 towards Weltenburg. The bus departs from Kelheim, Kelh.winz/A Hallstattstr and arrives at Weltenburg, P. -Josef/A Fr. bergstr. The journey takes approximately 22 minutes. The bus service operates three to four times a day, Monday to Saturday. A taxi from Kelheim to Weltenburg Abbey costs approximately €19-€24 and takes 11 minutes. Bus fares are relatively inexpensive.
Boat

From Kelheim, a popular option is to take a scenic boat trip along the Danube River to Weltenburg Abbey. Boats depart from Kelheim and take you directly to the Abbey. The boat trip through the Danube Gorge takes approximately 40 minutes upstream and 20 minutes for the return. A return ticket costs €9 per adult. The pier is located at Bahnhofstraße 1, 93309 Kelheim. Boat trips operate from March to November.
Walking

From the visitor parking lot in Weltenburg village, it is a 10-minute walk to Weltenburg Abbey. Follow the trail along the river. Alternatively, a scenic 5-kilometer trail (Jakobsweg) connects Kelheim with Weltenburg Abbey along the Danube's left bank. Another option is the 6-kilometer Donau-Panoramaweg trail. Also, on some days you can cross the Danube directly from the monastery to the other side with a small boat.

Discover more about Weltenburg Abbey

Nestled on a peninsula carved by the Danube River near Kelheim, Bavaria, Weltenburg Abbey (Kloster Weltenburg) is a captivating blend of natural beauty, architectural grandeur, and brewing tradition. Founded in approximately 617 AD by monks from the Hiberno-Scottish mission, it is considered the oldest monastery in Bavaria. The abbey's location within the Weltenburg Narrows (also known as the Danube Gorge), where the river has carved through Jura limestone, creates a dramatic and picturesque setting. The area has a rich history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Neolithic Age. The Romans also recognized the strategic importance of the area, establishing a military camp nearby in the 1st century CE. The monastery rose to prominence in the 18th century under Abbot Maurus Bächl, who initiated the construction of the Baroque complex seen today. The highlight is the abbey church, dedicated to Saint George, built by the Asam Brothers between 1716 and 1739. Its ornate interior, featuring stunning frescoes and intricate woodwork, exemplifies Bavarian Baroque artistry. Weltenburg Abbey is also famous for its brewery, Weltenburger Klosterbrauerei, which stakes a claim as the world's oldest monastic brewery, with brewing operations dating back to 1050. Visitors can sample the brewery's renowned beers, including the award-winning Weltenburger Kloster Barock Dunkel, in the abbey's traditional beer garden. Today, Weltenburg Abbey continues to be a working monastery, with Benedictine monks still in residence. The abbey welcomes visitors to explore its historic buildings, admire its art and architecture, and experience its unique atmosphere.