Things to do in Wachau
Discover the best attractions and experiences Wachau has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore monumental landmarks that define Wachau’s landscape, from ancient fortresses to grand abbeys perched above the Danube.
Melk Abbey (Stift Melk)
A spectacular Baroque abbey set on a rocky cliff overlooking the Danube, famed for its library and ornate interiors.
Dürnstein Castle Ruins
Romantic ruin above Dürnstein with sweeping river views and a legend of Richard the Lionheart.
Göttweig Abbey (Stift Göttweig)
Hilltop monastery offering panoramic views, refined architecture, and a sense of imperial history.
Museums
Delve into Wachau’s culture and contemporary art scene in compact, accessible museums across Krems and Melk.
Kunsthalle Krems
A leading center for contemporary art with rotating exhibitions in the heart of Krems.
Karikaturmuseum Krems
A playful collection of cartoons and caricatures showcasing visual humor and wit.
Stadtmuseum Krems
Exhibits tracing Krems’ history from medieval times to the present day.
Religious Monuments
Sacred sites punctuate the Wachau valley, offering serene architecture and spiritual histories.
Dürnstein Abbey (Stift Dürnstein)
A Cistercian abbey with a hilltop church and commanding Danube views.
Göttweig Abbey (Stift Göttweig)
Imposing hilltop monastery and pilgrimage site near Krems with Baroque beauty.
Maria Langegg Parish Church
Historic pilgrimage church set amid vineyard hills, known for its sacred art.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and protected trails showcase Wachau’s famous vineyard, hill, and river scenery.
Naturpark Jauerling-Wachau
A hilltop nature park with forest trails, panoramic Danube views, and wildlife.
Welterbesteig Wachau
UNESCO-recognized hiking route weaving through vineyards, villages, and river scenery.
Donauradweg (Danube Bike Path) through Wachau
Scenic cycling along the Danube with vineyard-clad hills and charming towns.
Neighborhoods
Characterful towns and riverside villages that define the Wachau’s charm and pace.
Krems an der Donau Old Town
Historic core with medieval streets, terraced wine taverns, and riverside charm.
Dürnstein
Picturesque village clinging to the hillside with a bell tower and cobblestone lanes.
Weißer-Riesling and Loibenberg villages (Weissenkirchen in der Wachau)
Cluster of wine-focused villages known for cellars, views, and grape-harvest culture.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy Wachau’s scenery and heritage without spending a euro with strolls and open-air views.
Danube Riverfront strolls
Walk along the Danube promenades in Krems and Dürnstein with river views and photo ops.
Old Town walking tours (self-guided)
Explore narrow streets, churches, and lookout points at your own pace.
Panoramic viewpoints over the Danube
Cloud-watching and hilltop vistas from freely accessible viewpoints around Wachau.
Gastronomy
Savor Wachau’s signature flavors, from apricots to celebrated white wines, in welcoming locales.
Marillenknödel (Apricot Dumplings)
A regional apricot delight often enjoyed as a dessert in local eateries.
Wachau Wine Tasting
Sample Grüner Veltliner and Riesling at a local winery amid vineyard views.
Heuriger experience
Casual wine taverns serving simple regional plates and live, relaxed atmosphere.
Nightlife
Quiet riverside evenings and cozy wine taverns create a relaxed nocturnal scene.
Heuriger evenings in Krems or Dürnstein
Casual wine taverns with seasonal snacks and regional wines.
Evening Danube cruises
Calm boat trips on the Danube with illuminated riverbank scenery.
Live music at village taverns
Seasonal performances in intimate settings within Wachau towns.
Entertainment
Seasonal cultural happenings and settings that immerse you in Wachau’s ambiance.
Summer concerts at Melk Abbey
Outdoor and indoor performances amid historic surroundings.
Theater and cultural events in Krems
Local performances and exhibitions in charming concert halls and squares.
Horse-drawn carriage rides through vineyards
Slow, scenic tours that let you soak in rural Wachau ambiance.
Sports
Active ways to explore Wachau’s terrain, from bikes to boat-based adventures.
Welterbesteig Wachau hiking
Multi-day or day hikes along vineyards, cliffs, and river views.
Donauradweg biking
Scenic pedaling along the Danube through the Wachau’s vineyards.
Danube kayaking
Calm-water paddling near Krems and Dürnstein with river scenery.
Off the Track
Hidden gems and unique experiences that reveal Wachau’s character beyond the obvious.
Hot air balloon ride over Wachau
Soaring above vineyards and villages for a unforgettable aerial perspective.
Private vineyard tours with a local winemaker
Insider visits to small producers with tasting in a rustic setting.
Apricot orchard visit and seasonal harvest
Hands-on experience in apricot groves, depending on the season.