The Wachau Valley is a 36 km stretch of the Danube between Melk and Krems, in Austria. Terraced vineyards, apricot orchards and castle ruins line both banks. In fact, the landscape is so well preserved that UNESCO listed it in 2000. Moreover, it is only about an hour from Vienna.
This guide covers the best villages, wine experiences, cycling routes and practical tips.
Wine in the Wachau Valley
The Wachau Valley produces some of Austria’s finest white wines. Above all, look for dry Grüner Veltliner and Riesling grown on steep stone terraces. Local wines are classed as Steinfeder, Federspiel and Smaragd, from light to rich.
- Wine tasting: Many family wineries welcome visitors. Also, traditional taverns called Heurigen serve their own wine with cold snacks.
- Wine hiking: The Wachau World Heritage Trail leads through vineyards with superb river views.
- Wine events: Every spring, during the Wachau Wine Spring, wineries open their cellars to visitors.
Top Places to Visit in the Wachau Valley
Melk Abbey
At the western gate of the valley, Melk Abbey rises on a rock above the river. Benedictine monks have lived here for more than 900 years. However, today’s golden building dates from the 18th century. Inside, the Marble Hall, the library and the church are baroque masterpieces. Also, enjoy the views from the terrace and the gardens.
Dürnstein
Dürnstein is the most famous village of the Wachau Valley. Its blue and white church tower is a classic photo spot. Above the village stand the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was held captive in 1192. He was captured on his way home from the Third Crusade. So, the short climb combines history with great views.
Krems
At the eastern end, Krems is one of Austria’s oldest towns. First, enter the old town through the Steiner Tor gate. Then, explore its art scene, including the Kunsthalle Krems and the State Gallery of Lower Austria. Krems is also a good base for bike rentals and river cruises.
Spitz and Weißenkirchen
Spitz sits beneath the Thousand-Bucket Hill, a vineyard said to yield a thousand buckets of wine in good years. Nearby, Weißenkirchen has a fortified church and charming lanes. Both villages are ideal for a slow lunch in a wine tavern.
Castles and Ruins
The ruins of Aggstein Castle sit high above the river. Legend says a robber baron once trapped prisoners on a rocky ledge here. Meanwhile, Schönbühel Castle perches on a rock at the entrance to the valley, like a fairy-tale fortress.
Cycling and River Cruises
The Danube Cycle Path runs through the whole Wachau Valley. Because it is almost flat, it suits all ages. You can rent bikes in Melk or Krems. Then, ride one way and return by boat. In addition, small ferries cross the river between villages.
Apricots and Local Food
The Wachau is also famous for its apricots, called Marillen. They bloom in spring and ripen in July. So, look for apricot jam, liqueur, schnapps and dumplings. In local taverns, also try schnitzel or Tafelspitz with a glass of Wachau wine.
Best Time to Visit the Wachau Valley
April brings apricot blossoms, while summer is ideal for swimming and cycling. However, autumn is the most beautiful season, with golden vines and the grape harvest. In winter, many taverns close.
How to Get to the Wachau Valley
Trains from Vienna reach Krems or Melk in about an hour. Also, the Wachau railway links the villages along the north bank. By car, the drive takes about an hour too. For more on its heritage, see the UNESCO page for the Wachau.
A Timeless Journey Through the Wachau Valley
The Wachau Valley combines wine, history and river views in a compact area. Above all, take your time and enjoy it at a slow pace. Afterwards, continue to Salzburg or Hallstatt. Discover all our Austria travel guides.
