Wachau: Day Trip from Vienna to Danube Valley

This day trip will take you from Vienna to Wachau, a beautiful valley located next to the Danube River in Austria. Board a premium air-conditioned bus, and enjoy a relaxing ride to the destination. You will travel through the serene Austrian countryside and arrive at Durnstein after a short ride.

Of castles and abbeys

The ruins of Durnstein castle can be seen on a nearby hill. The English king, Richard the Lionheart, was held captive in this castle in the 12th century. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features numerous monasteries, medieval castles, and a breathtaking landscape. One of the highlights of the tour is an optional visit to the Melk Abbey. Located on a rocky outcrop of a cliff, overlooking the Danube River, the Melk Abbey was founded in the latter half of the 11th century. The current abbey was built in 1736 in the Baroque style and features eye-catching frescoes by Johann Michael Rottmayr and a library with innumerable medieval manuscripts. Enjoy free time in Melk and based on the option selected by you, have fun on a boat ride during summer or savor a scrumptious lunch during winter months.

Depending on the season, visit the historic city of Krems, at the heart of the Wachau wine-growing region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich architectural and agricultural heritage. You may also get to visit Dürnstein. It is a charming town known for its historic ruins and blue church tower. It’s also associated with the story of King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned here.

The day trip will come to an end after this, and you will return to the Vienna State Opera on the bus.

Wachau: Day Trip from Vienna to Danube Valley

Discover the picturesque landscape and lush vineyards of Wachau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lower Austria, on this full-day guided tour that includes stops at Melk Abbey, Dürnstein Castle, and Krems. The tour lasts approximately 10 hours with pick-up from your Vienna hotel around 8:30 AM and drop-off by 6 PM. You will travel through the charming Wachau Valley aboard a comfortable coach and enjoy free time to explore these historic sites along with lunch at local restaurants during winter months or an exciting boat ride on the Danube River in summer. The tour is available in multiple languages including English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, and Russian, ensuring accessibility for all international visitors. With over 18 miles of scenic riverbank to explore, you will have ample opportunity to take in the breathtaking views of medieval castles, vineyards, and quaint villages. This tour also includes visits to local wineries where you can taste regional wines and learn about traditional viticulture techniques from knowledgeable guides. The unique Wachau apricot or "Marille," often used in Austrian jams like Marillenmarmelade, adds an extra layer of culinary interest to your experience. With stops at four key landmarks—Melk Abbey, Dürnstein Castle, Krems, and the Danube River—you will have a comprehensive understanding of Wachau's cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Explore Melk Abbey

Your tour stops at Melk Abbey where you can marvel at its grand Baroque architecture dating back to 1702. The abbey covers an impressive area of over 65,000 square feet with stunning frescoes and intricate stucco work throughout the interior. Notable features include the ornate library housing thousands of ancient manuscripts, the golden altar in St. Benedict's Chapel, and panoramic views from the rooftop terrace overlooking the Danube River. Melk Abbey was established as a Benedictine monastery in 1089 and played a significant role in medieval education and scholarship. Guests typically spend about two hours exploring this landmark, which stands out for its blend of religious devotion and artistic splendor compared to other monastic sites across Europe. This visit is crucial to understanding the cultural and historical significance of Wachau.

Admire Dürnstein Castle

The tour continues with a stop at Dürnstein Castle, a medieval fortress perched on a hill overlooking the Danube River. Built in 1192, this castle is famous for its connection to King Richard I of England who was imprisoned here during his return from the Third Crusade in 1193. The castle spans approximately 50 acres and features well-preserved walls, towers, and a chapel that offer visitors a glimpse into medieval life. Tourists usually spend around an hour exploring Dürnstein Castle, learning about its rich history and enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards and river valley. Unlike other castles in Austria, Dürnstein's unique story makes it particularly memorable for travelers interested in historical events.

Enjoy Krems

Your tour includes a visit to Krems, a charming town known for its vibrant cultural scene and architectural heritage. Founded in the 12th century, Krems boasts well-preserved medieval buildings such as St. Nikolaus Church and the Gothic Town Hall. The town covers an area of about 4 square miles and is renowned for its numerous wine taverns where you can sample local wines while enjoying live music performances. Tourists typically spend around two hours exploring Krems, which offers a perfect blend of history, art, and gastronomy. This stop provides a deeper understanding of the region's cultural evolution over centuries.

Tour Highlights

• Discover picturesque Wachau Valley sights
• Coach ride through Lower Austria’s vineyards and castles
• Free time in Melk with guided tour options
• Lunch at local restaurant or Danube boat ride depending on season
• Visit Dürnstein Castle for historical insights
• Explore Krems’ cultural heritage including wine taverns and live music
• Audio guide available in multiple languages (English, German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian)
• Access to Melk Abbey’s rooftop terrace with panoramic views

Perfect for history enthusiasts, culture seekers, and nature lovers, this day trip from Vienna offers a comprehensive exploration of Wachau's UNESCO World Heritage landscape. You will have the opportunity to admire Dürnstein Castle, stroll through Krems' historic streets, and marvel at Melk Abbey’s architectural splendor, providing an enriching experience that showcases the region's unique blend of history, art, and natural beauty.