Where to stay in Wachau
The Wachau is a stretch of the Danube valley in Lower Austria, between Melk and Krems, famous for its terraced vineyards, apricot orchards, castles and medieval villages. It is a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape, and most visitors stay in one of the riverside villages such as Dürnstein, Spitz or Weißenkirchen, or in the towns at either end.
Dürnstein
Dürnstein, with its blue-and-white abbey tower and the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was held captive, is the most famous village in the Wachau. Hotels and wine taverns line its narrow streets. It is busy by day with boat tours, but quiet in the evening.
Spitz and Weißenkirchen
These villages are surrounded by terraced vineyards and Heurigen, wine taverns serving local Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. The Danube cycle path passes through, and boats stop at both. They are calmer than Dürnstein.
Krems
Krems, at the eastern end of the valley, has an old town, the Kunstmeile museums and good train links to Vienna. It is a practical base for exploring the Wachau by bike or boat.
Melk
At the western end, the small town of Melk is dominated by the huge baroque Melk Abbey. River boats leave from here downriver through the Wachau. It is quieter in the evening and well connected by train.
One thing to think about
Boats on the Danube run mainly from about April to October; in winter many hotels and taverns close or reduce hours. Check boat timetables and bike rental options before planning to rely on them.
Other places to stay in Austria: lastminute.com · Megabon
Once you have a bed
The things that sell out first in Wachau are the small-group tours and the skip-the-line tickets.
Common questions
How do I get to the Wachau from Vienna?
Trains run from Vienna to Krems and to Melk in about one hour to one and a half hours. From there you can take a boat, ride the local train along the river or cycle. Many day tours go from Vienna, but staying a night lets you enjoy the wine taverns.
Is the Wachau good for cycling?
Yes. The Danube Cycle Path runs through the Wachau on both banks, mostly flat and well marked, passing vineyards, villages and castles. You can rent bikes in Krems or Melk and take a boat or train back. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons.
When is the best time to visit the Wachau?
Spring brings apricot blossom, usually in late March or April, and autumn the grape harvest and wine festivals. Summer is warm and busy. From November to March many boats stop running and some taverns close, but the villages are quiet and atmospheric.
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