Best things to do in Wachau
Find out more about those top places in Wachau
Discover Wachau: Austria’s Own Slice of Heaven (With Wine, of Course)
If you're dreaming of a place where medieval castles meet rolling vineyards, where the Danube River winds its way through picturesque towns, and where every village could easily be the setting for a fairy tale—then say hello to Wachau! This magical stretch of the Danube Valley is Austria’s answer to the grandeur of France’s Loire Valley, but with a lot more Austrian charm (and, let’s be honest, way more wine).
Top Attractions in Wachau: A Perfect Blend of History, Nature, and Wine
Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Wachau is packed to the brim with places to visit, from Habsburg-era towns to medieval fortifications and, of course, the kind of breathtaking natural beauty that will make you want to bring your camera (or, you know, just move here). Here are some of the top attractions you can’t miss in this Austrian paradise:
1. Melk Abbey: The Hilltop Wonder That Will Make You Say "Wow!"
First stop on your Wachau travel guide? The Benedictine Abbey of Melk—a monastery perched on a hilltop, watching over the Danube like it owns the place. This is one of Austria's most iconic attractions, with its baroque architecture, stunning library, and jaw-dropping views. Prepare to be wowed by the ornate ceilings and the peaceful aura that’s practically begging you to snap a few photos. It’s so beautiful, you might even forget to leave... but don’t worry, there’s plenty more to explore.
2. Krems an der Donau: A Riverside Town Straight Out of a Postcard
Next up is the charming town of Krems an der Donau—the perfect spot to start your journey through the Wachau region. With its cobblestone streets, charming riverside cafés, and historic buildings, Krems is the kind of town you’ll want to get lost in. Don't miss the Kunsthalle Krems, where you can indulge your artsy side (and pretend you’re a local). Afterward, stroll along the Danube River and stop for a glass of local wine—trust us, you’ll need it for the next leg of the journey.
Things to Do in Wachau: Castles, Vineyards, and... More Wine!
3. Ruined Castles on Riversides: Where History and Drama Meet
The Wachau Valley isn’t just about perfectly preserved towns; it’s also home to a number of evocative ruined castles perched on riverside cliffs. They’re the perfect mix of history and drama—perfect for those of you who like your sightseeing with a side of “romantic ruins.” These castles, which include Aggstein Castle and Dürnstein Castle, are not just for Instagram-worthy shots but are also steeped in history. Who wouldn’t want to explore ancient fortifications with a bit of adventure and mystery? You might even catch a glimpse of the legendary Richard the Lionheart—well, his prison anyway.
4. Wachau’s Vineyards: Sip, Savor, and Repeat
Of course, no trip to Wachau would be complete without experiencing the region’s finest wines. Wachau is a wine lover’s paradise, with rolling vineyards producing some of Austria’s most delicious wines, including the famous Grüner Veltliner. Take a leisurely tour of the wine estates, sip a few glasses (or a few bottles), and embrace the relaxed atmosphere of the wine villages that dot the valley. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a casual drinker, the region’s wine tastings are an absolute must-do. After all, you’re in the heart of wine country—you’ve got to do it right!
Why You Need to Visit Wachau
So, why should Wachau be at the top of your Austrian bucket list? Well, it’s got everything: natural beauty, rich history, charming towns, and amazing wine—it’s basically Austria in a nutshell. Whether you're exploring medieval castles, savoring a glass of local wine, or soaking in the views along the Danube River, Wachau is a place where you’ll never run out of things to do. If you like your vacations with a side of history, culture, and wine (let’s face it, who doesn’t?), then Wachau is the perfect place to explore.
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Schloss Schönbühel
Sitting high atop the cliff is the Schönbühel castle. This castle has had a history of being rebuilt repeatedly and being inhabited by different owners since it was first built. Today, the castle looks the central Wachau market and one can get a nice view of Wachau from the castle.
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Burgruine Dürnstein
The Burgruine Dürnstein is a castle in ruins yet it still attracts a good number of tourists all year round. Tours to this location are most often complemented with a visit to interesting locations around the ruined castle. To get to the castle, you would have to take a short hike up the cliff where the ruined castle stands.
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River Cruises
Enjoy a nice river cruise in Wachau where there are exciting activities both onboard the ship and off the ship. While onboard, get a taste of the delicacies available as the river leads you around the Schönbühel Palace, Melk Abbey, and Dürnstein, the town that has a blue church tower. The view from the river is guaranteed to leave you awestruck and wanting to see more.
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Wine Tasting
There is something the locals here are known for, and it is their skill in wine making. They have their unique way of making their wine which leaves you wanting more after the first glass. Tourists often go on tours to this site not only to taste the wines but also to learn about the processes involved in the wine making.
