Danube Delights: Austria & Germany's Must-See Attractions

The Danube is the second-longest river in Europe, originating in Germany's Black Forest and flowing for 2,730 kilometres (1,700 miles) southeast until it reaches the Black Sea. Along the way, it passes through or touches the borders of ten countries, including Austria and Germany, and flows through four capital cities. The river has been an important waterway since ancient times, and there are many must-see destinations along its banks.

Passau, Germany: The 'City of Three Rivers'

Passau, Germany: The City of Three Rivers

The southern Bavarian town of Passau is known as the Dreiflüssestadt, or 'city of three rivers', as it sits at the confluence of the Danube, the Inn, and the Ilz rivers. This picturesque university town is home to around 50,000 people and is just a 20-minute walk from Austria.

Passau's old town is characterised by colourful Baroque buildings and winding cobbled alleys. The town's impressive architecture, vibrant culture, and beautiful landscape make it a romantic and charming place to explore. The old town's scenic streetscape is filled with spectacular Gothic and Baroque architecture, pretty squares, and splendid bridges. The city's skyline is dominated by Italian Baroque churches and the imposing Dom St. Stephan (St. Stephen's Cathedral), which dates back to 1688, though a church has been on the site since the eighth century.

A highlight of a visit to Passau is a concert on the world's largest cathedral organ, with over 17,000 pipes, at St. Stephen's Cathedral. The majestic place of worship has dominated the cityscape for centuries and combines elements of Baroque, Renaissance, and Gothic architecture. The cathedral's organ concerts are usually held at lunchtime and are well worth a visit.

Another notable site in Passau is the Veste Oberhaus, a medieval castle complex on a hill north of the city. Built in the 13th century, it once served as an important defence point and is now a popular excursion destination, offering impressive panoramic views of the city, the three rivers, and the surrounding hill country.

The rivers themselves also offer a delightful experience, with many commercial and leisure boats travelling along them. A riverboat cruise during a sunny spring or summer day is a must for any visitor to Passau. The town's riverboat culture is renowned, and the Danube bike trail, which runs along the river towards the Black Sea, passes through the city.

Passau's charming atmosphere, stunning architecture, and unique setting make it a must-see destination along the Danube in Germany.

Wachau Valley: Wine, abbeys, castles

The Wachau Valley, nestled between the charming towns of Melk and Krems, is a picturesque stretch of the Danube Valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With its rolling vineyards, quaint villages, and medieval castles, it offers a truly immersive experience for travellers seeking to explore the region's wine, abbeys, and castles.

Wine

The valley is renowned for its world-class vineyards and wineries, producing complex white wines, dry Rieslings, and Grüner Veltliners. The temperature variation between day and night plays a crucial role in ripening the grapes, resulting in sophisticated wines. The heat retained in the water and the stony slopes with thin soil covers also contribute to the growth of fine grape varieties. The wine district's rolling vineyards produce complex white wines, and the valley is a source of Austria's most prized dry Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners.

Abbeys

The Benedictine abbeys of Melk and Göttweig are architectural masterpieces and major attractions in the valley. The Melk Abbey, founded in 1089, showcases Baroque architecture and an extensive art collection. The Göttweig Abbey, founded in 1083, is known as the "Austrian Montecassino" and features a high altar dedicated in 1072. Both abbeys offer insights into the region's monastic history and showcase magnificent artistic and architectural details.

Castles

The Wachau Valley is dotted with castles that bear witness to the region's rich history. The medieval castle ruins of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive, offer a glimpse into the past. The Kuenringerburg castle, now in ruins, is another site associated with Richard the Lionheart's imprisonment. The Burgruine Aggstein, located on the right bank of the Danube, was built in the 12th century by the Kuenringer family and used as a stronghold. These castles, along with others in the valley, provide a link to the region's noble and turbulent past.

Vienna: Imperial city with rich history

Vienna, the birthplace of classical music and a city steeped in Habsburg dynasty history, is a must-see destination along the Danube River in Austria. With its stunning imperial palaces, grand Baroque architecture, and rich cultural heritage, Vienna is sure to charm visitors with its old-world glamour and modern attractions.

Strolling Through Vienna

Begin your exploration of Vienna by strolling through the pedestrian-friendly city centre, where you'll find cosy cafes, green parks, and impressive landmarks. Make your way to the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture. Don't forget to indulge in the famous Viennese delicacy, the Sacher Torte, a chocolate cream cake with apricot jam.

Exploring Imperial History

Vienna's history is deeply intertwined with that of the Habsburg dynasty, who ruled the Austro-Hungarian Empire for nearly 650 years. One of the best ways to learn about this influential family is by visiting Schönbrunn Palace, their opulent summer residence located just outside the city. With 1,441 rooms, ornate gardens, and a rich history, it's no wonder that Schönbrunn is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a guided tour to learn more about the imperial apartments of Emperor Franz Joseph and his famous wife, Empress Sisi.

Musical Legacy

Vienna is known as the birthplace of classical music, and its musical legacy continues to resonate throughout the city. Beyond the famous waltz "The Blue Danube" by Johann Strauss II, which has become an unofficial Austrian national anthem, Vienna boasts a vibrant musical scene. Visit the Opera House, take a walk along the "Ringstraße" boulevard, or attend a concert at one of the many venues to immerse yourself in the city's musical offerings.

Art and Culture

Vienna is a cultural hub, boasting world-class museums, trendy restaurants, and vibrant neighbourhoods. Head to the Museumsquartier, a hip square teeming with cafes and museums showcasing both traditional and contemporary art. Explore the Belvedere Palace, an unmissable site with beautiful architecture and art. Don't miss the chance to stroll through the charming neighbourhoods of Vienna, such as the Naschmarkt, a popular culinary and cultural destination.

Beyond the City Centre

While the city centre is full of attractions, there is more to explore beyond it. The Danube River itself is a sight to behold, and you can easily access it via the U1, U2, and U6 subway lines. The river runs across the northeast of the city, offering picturesque views and a different perspective of Vienna. For a unique experience, take a river trip on the Danube or explore the surrounding areas by bike.

Linz, Austria: Cultural capital

Austria's third-largest city, Linz, is a cultural hub nestled along the picturesque Danube River. Once scoffed at as a provincial industrial town, Linz has transformed itself into a vibrant centre of art, science, and history.

Linz boasts a rich cultural heritage, having been named a European Capital of Culture in 2009 and recognised by UNESCO in 2014 as a creative city in the media arts. The city seamlessly blends the old and the new, with cutting-edge architecture and art institutions nestled among its stately old buildings.

One of the must-see attractions in Linz is the cultural mile, where you can explore museums, performing arts venues, and striking contemporary architecture. The Lentos Art Museum, with works by Klimt and Schiele, is a highlight for art enthusiasts. The city also boasts the Brucknerhaus, the Musiktheatre am Volksgarten (opera house), and the Ars Electronica museum, which showcases the technological changes shaping our world.

For those with a sweet tooth, Linz offers a delicious treat—the famous Austrian cake, the Linzer torte. This delectable dessert is the oldest cake in the world, with a recipe dating back to 1653. So, be sure to indulge in a slice or two while exploring all that Linz has to offer!

Linz's old town, with its sleek trams, cobblestone streets, half-timbered houses, and brick towers, will charm you. And if you're looking for a delicious meal, the town houses and former monasteries turned restaurants serve inventive and delicious cuisine.

Linz is also a great starting point for exploring the surrounding area. You can take a boat trip along the Danube, passing through lush riverbanks and charming villages, or embark on a bike tour to discover the enchanting Wachau region, known for its vineyard terraces and captivating castles.

Melk Abbey: Baroque masterpiece

Melk Abbey is a Baroque masterpiece and one of the most important landmarks and religious complexes in Europe. Located in Melk, a tiny village in Lower Austria, the abbey is a blockbuster Baroque ensemble that will charm you with its yellow, pink, and gold hues.

The abbey's origins date back to 1089 when Margrave Leopold II of Austria gave one of his castles to Benedictine monks, who transformed it into a centre of monastic life in Austria. Over the centuries, the abbey has been renovated and expanded, with the current Baroque building erected in the 18th century.

The interior of Melk Abbey is just as impressive as its exterior. Admire the cloisters, the frescoed church, and the library, which is connected to the church by a gorgeous pink and gold spiral staircase. The abbey also boasts beautiful gardens with a pavilion filled with pastel frescoes and a restaurant offering refreshments.

Melk Abbey is located in the Wachau Valley, one of the world's most beautiful river valleys and wine-growing regions. The valley is known for its picturesque vineyards, imposing fortresses, and charming villages. The abbey is easily accessible from Vienna, making it a popular day trip for visitors to the Austrian capital.

So, whether you're cruising, driving, or cycling along the Danube, be sure to include a visit to Melk Abbey on your itinerary. It truly is a Baroque masterpiece and one of the top attractions along this venerable river.

Frequently asked questions