Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s most scenic wine regions.
4.9/5 ⭐Google 660+ Reviews | A+ Better Business Bureau
Overview
The Wachau Valley, a breathtaking stretch of the Danube River in Lower Austria, is a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape renowned for its extraordinary beauty, historical significance, and world-class wine production. This picturesque valley, extending roughly 30 kilometers between the towns of Melk and Krems, is a highlight for many Danube River cruises, offering a serene journey through terraced vineyards, charming apricot orchards, medieval castles, and impressive monasteries perched dramatically above the riverbanks.
The region's unique microclimate fosters the cultivation of exquisite white wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, while its rich history dates back to Roman times, with evidence of early settlements and strategic fortifications. Cruising through the Wachau is an immersion into a landscape where nature, culture, and viticulture intertwine seamlessly, providing a tranquil yet enriching experience that captures the essence of Austrian charm and heritage.
Often a highlight at the western end of the Wachau, explore the grand Melk Abbey (Stift Melk). This colossal Benedictine monastery, perched majestically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube, is a masterpiece.
Tip: Join a guided tour to fully appreciate the abbey's history, art, and architectural grandeur.
Step ashore to wander through the lovely medieval town of Dürnstein. It is famous for its blue Baroque abbey church and the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned.
Tip: Consider a relatively easy hike up to the ruins of Dürnstein Castle for breathtaking views of the town.
Indulge in a wine tasting at one of the numerous wineries (Heuriger) throughout the valley. The Wachau is celebrated for its dry white wines, especially Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. Also, try local specialties made.
Tip: Look for "Heuriger" signs, indicating a traditional wine tavern where local vintners serve their new wines.
For an active exploration, consider cycling. Many cruise lines offer bicycle rentals, allowing you to relaxed pedal through vineyards, past charming villages, and along the riverbanks, absorbing the scenic beauty at your own pace.
Tip: The path is mostly flat and well-marked, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
At the eastern end of the Wachau, explore Krems a der Donau, a historic town. Wander its charming old town, visit its museums, and enjoy its lively atmosphere, its reputation as a wine education hub.
Tip: Krems is known for its art scene; look for local galleries or the Karikaturmuseum (Cartoon Museum).
Simply relax on your ship's deck and admire the castles and ruins. From the formidable Aggstein Castle to the romantic Schönbühel Castle, these historic structures add a dramatic and pretty element to the riverside scenery.
Tip: Bring binoculars to see details of the castles and landscapes as you cruise early.
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Prague, Czech Republic
1 Sailing
Nov 20, 2028
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Vilshofen, Germany
1 Sailing
Nov 22, 2028
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Budapest, Hungary
1 Sailing
Aug 26, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Munich, Germany
1 Sailing
Jun 12, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Vilshofen, Germany
1 Sailing
Jun 14, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Vilshofen, Germany
1 Sailing
Jun 14, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Budapest, Hungary
1 Sailing
Aug 28, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Avalon Visionary
From
Munich, Germany
1 Sailing
Jun 12, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Var
From
Budapest, Hungary
33 Sailings
Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 17, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Aboard
Viking Tor
From
Regensburg, Germany
32 Sailings
Nov 13, 2026 - Nov 17, 2028
Published prices from
per person*
taxes & fees included
Our expert consultants and customer service teams are standing by to help with all of your cruising needs.
[Our Cruise Expert] and his team were absolutely amazing to work with! Our original trip was unexpectedly canceled by the airline, so we decided at the last minute to go on a cruis...
Julia K.
I've booked several cruises with [Our Cruise Expert] in the past 15 years and continue to book with her for my family of five. We just returned from a Western Caribbean cruise on...
John C.
Friendly and professional attention by my senior cruise consultant. Perfect assistance. Thank you
Jose M.
I was having some trouble finding the right cruise for the right price as a single traveler, but thanks to [our Cruise Expert] I was able to find it with Cruise Web. Thank you very...
Camille G.
We have worked with [our Cruise Expert] several times and she makes it so easy and a pleasure to work with. She is very knowledgeable.
Linda F.
[Our Cruise Expert] was informative and very pleasant to work with. I'm not familiar with booking travel online and he made my experience pleasant.
Sharon E.
I am working with [our Cruise Expert] as my travel agent...he has been very helpful...he is very informative and knowledgeable about the places that I want to go on my Cruise....I...
Priscilla B.
[Our Cruise Expert] does an exceptional job of planning (with you) and coordinating a trip of your dreams! I can't wait to get started on the next one.
Sheralyn H.
Great working with [our Cruise Expert]! He was a tremendous help and steered us in the right direction every time! Helped us make memories for a lifetime!
Wendy F.
[Our Cruise Expert] always works hard to secure the bookings we have chosen and guides us through the process. She is always available to help and her advise is spot on.
James C.
