Lexi Webster
Austria is a popular destination for riverboat cruises, with the Danube River being a common route. The capital city of Vienna is a frequent stop on these cruises, with tourists visiting the city centre, Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and the Old Danube lake. Other stops on the Danube include the historic village of Dürnstein, the Benedictine monastery of Melk Abbey, and the charming village of Grinzing, known for its wineries. Beyond Austria, riverboats on the Danube may also stop in Slovakia, Hungary, and Croatia.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Rivers | Danube, Old Danube (Alte Donau) |
| Cities | Vienna, Salzburg, Linz, Grinzing, Melk, Bratislava, Prague, Budapest, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Nuremberg |
| Villages | St Wolfgang, Dürnstein, Spitz, Hallstatt |
| Cruises | Danube River cruise, Christmas Market River Cruise, Prague and Danube Delights, Classic Vienna river cruise, Bratislava Danube cruise, Vienna Danube Evening Cruise |
| Palaces | Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, Mirabell Palace |
| Museums | Kunsthistorisches Museum, The Belvedere |
| Other | Wachau Valley, Heuriger Tavern, Melk Abbey, St. Stephen's Cathedral, Hellbrunn Park, Nonnberg Abbey, Eagle's Nest, Lake District, Austrian Alps, Admont Abbey, Hallstatt village, Gmunden, Danube Island, Donauinsel, Prater woodlands, Kunsthaus, Otto Wagner's modernist Schützenhaus, Zaha Hadid-designed university library |
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What You'll Learn
Vienna
When it comes to riverboat stops in Vienna, there are several options to choose from. One popular option is to take a cruise on the Danube River itself. These cruises can range from one to three hours, offering different experiences and perspectives on the city. A one-hour cruise along the canal banks showcases the beautiful architecture and diverse districts of Vienna. A two-hour cruise starting at Schwedenplatz takes passengers towards the planetarium and observatories, through the Freudenau Lock and Marina yacht harbour, ending near St. Francis of Assisi's church. A three-hour cruise allows for a more comprehensive experience, including the musical delights that Vienna is known for, as well as a buffet dinner featuring Viennese cuisine and wine.
In addition to the river cruises, there are also boat rides and tours available on the Old Danube lake, an old side arm of the river. These boat rides offer a tranquil experience, with quiet electric boats that are sustainable and comfortable. Kayaking is another option for exploring the Old Danube, providing a more active and intimate connection with the water.
For those interested in combining their riverboat experience with cultural and historical exploration, Vienna offers several options. The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is known for its stunning landscapes, wine, food, and monuments. It is accessible via riverboat and makes for a popular day trip from Vienna. The Melk Abbey, another UNESCO World Heritage site, is also a common stop for riverboats, featuring Baroque architecture and a rich history.
When planning a riverboat trip to Vienna, it's important to consider the season and your expectations. While the Danube River is indeed a famous landmark, the section flowing through Vienna may not be as scenic as some expect, especially compared to the city centres of other European cities. Nevertheless, a riverboat trip in Vienna can offer a unique blend of industrial charms, contemporary high-rise buildings, and, of course, the rich cultural and historical heritage that the city is renowned for.
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Wachau Valley
The Wachau Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along a 24-mile stretch of the Danube River between Melk and Krems in Austria. The valley is known for its picturesque landscapes, including sloping vineyards, small villages, castles, abbeys, and ruins.
A popular way to experience the Wachau Valley is by boat, with several companies offering river cruises that sail between Melk and Krems. These cruises typically last around 1 hour and 45 minutes and may include stops at villages such as Emmersdorf, Spitz, and Dürnstein. The boats also pass by sites such as Schönbühel Castle, the ruins of Aggstein Castle, and Göttweig Abbey.
In Melk, visitors can explore the historic village and visit the Melk Abbey, a Baroque palace that now serves as a prestigious co-ed school in a Benedictine monastery. The abbey is considered one of Europe's great sights and is recognized as one of Austria's most famous Baroque buildings.
Dürnstein, another popular stop on the riverboat route, is a quaint and traffic-free town known for its ruined castle, where Richard the Lionhearted was imprisoned in 1193. The town also offers stunning river views and charming stores selling apricot jam and ice cream.
The final stop on the riverboat route is Krems, a town known for its shopper's paradise in the old town. From Krems, visitors can take a train back to Vienna, making this a convenient day trip option.
The Wachau Valley is also a popular destination for cyclists, with dedicated bike paths on both the north and south sides of the river. The south side, in particular, offers a quieter and more rural experience, with vineyards and villages along the way.
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Melk
Undoubtedly, the crown jewel of Melk is the Melk Abbey, a magnificent Baroque ensemble that has graced the town since the 11th century. The abbey has been occupied by Benedictine monks since 1089, following the principles of "pray, work, and read." The monastic school, one of the oldest in Austria, has educated notable composers, musicians, writers, and painters. The abbey's library is renowned for its extensive manuscript collection, contributing to its academic prestige. The church within the abbey is a masterpiece of High Baroque architecture, adorned with frescoes and golden ornaments. Visitors can explore the abbey museum, admire the marble hall, stroll through the balcony and the abbey park, and discover the tomb of St. Coloman of Stockerau.
Historic Architecture
Cultural Significance
Riverboat Access
Whether you're strolling through the charming old town, admiring the architectural masterpieces, or delving into the rich history of Melk Abbey, Melk offers a wealth of cultural and scenic delights for visitors exploring Austria's picturesque countryside.
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Dürnstein
The village of Dürnstein itself is a charming destination, boasting historic landmarks and architectural gems. One notable landmark is the Melk Abbey, a former Baroque palace that now houses a prestigious co-ed school within a Benedictine monastery. The abbey serves as a testament to the religious significance and architectural splendour of the region.
A riverboat cruise along the Danube is an ideal way to explore Dürnstein and its surroundings. The river gracefully meanders through the heart of Europe, offering travellers breathtaking views and immersive cultural experiences. The cruises provide a unique perspective on the valley's beauty, with its rolling hills, lush vineyards, and charming villages.
When visiting Dürnstein, it is important to respect the local culture and traditions. Dressing appropriately when visiting churches or religious sites is recommended, with clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Additionally, bringing a small daypack for onshore excursions can be practical for carrying essentials and any local souvenirs you may collect along the way.
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Grinzing
The history of Grinzing is filled with legends and myths. The village was first mentioned in 1114 when it came into the possession of the noble house of Grinzinger, who built the Trummelhof, which still stands today. Grinzing has attracted many prominent figures throughout history, including Beethoven, Schubert, Strauss, Gogol, Mahler, Einstein, and Freud. Beethoven composed the Pastoral Symphony while staying in Grinzing during the summer of 1808. The Grinzing Cemetery is the resting place of several notable individuals, including Gustav Mahler, Attila Hörbiger, and Alma Mahler-Werfel.
As a well-known wine region, Grinzing has a long history of viticulture. In 1784, Emperor Joseph II exempted wine sales from tax, leading to the region's flourishing as most households were involved in wine production. Grinzing's local wines include Grüner Vetliner, Wiener Gemischter Satz, Riesling, and Chardonnay, among others. The 19th District of Vienna, where Grinzing is located, arranges annual wine tastings. Grinzing provides a unique experience, contrasting with the imperial atmosphere of central Vienna, and offering a small-town vibe.
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Frequently asked questions
Riverboats in Austria stop at various points in and around Vienna, Salzburg, Linz, and the Wachau Valley.
Popular stops in Vienna include Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Belvedere, and the Old Danube lake. Most riverboats dock beside the Reichsbrucke bridge, from where tourists can access the old city via the U-Bahn.
Popular day trips from Vienna include Melk, Salzburg, and Hallstatt.
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