Romantic Danube and Wachau Valley Day Trip from Vienna, Austria (English Tour | 9 Hours) [Melk Abbey admission included]

Itinerary details

This Vienna day trip to the Wachau Valley takes approximately 8.75 hours, giving you an in-depth tour of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Immerse yourself in the stunning natural scenery along the Danube, its historic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage. Along the way, visit three well-known towns in the Wachau Valley—Dürnstein, Spitz, and Melk. First, arrive in the riverside town of Dürnstein, nestled against the hills, and explore the ruins of Dürnstein Castle, which has strong historical ties to Richard the Lionheart. Take in sweeping views of the Danube and the valley's vineyards from above. Next, head to Spitz, a picturesque wine-growing town at the heart of the Wachau. In summer, you can take a Danube cruise and leisurely admire the terraced vineyards, ancient ruins, and distinctive riverside scenery from the water, enjoying the Wachau Valley at its finest. Finally, visit Melk Abbey, a renowned landmark of Austrian Baroque architecture, and learn about the Benedictine abbey's long history and exquisite architectural artistry. After the tour, relax on the coach ride back to Vienna and discover the Wachau Valley's classic highlights in one trip. Differences between the summer and winter itineraries: • Summer all-inclusive option: €133. Choose the summer all-inclusive version of the Wachau day trip from Vienna, which includes admission to Melk Abbey and a boat cruise, so you won't miss any of the region's highlights. • Winter basic option: €119. Choose the winter basic version of the Wachau day trip from Vienna. It includes admission to Melk Abbey but not a boat cruise. This is the perfect option if you'd like to experience the abbey's architecture and history amid the Wachau's beautiful winter scenery. The following itinerary times are approximate; the actual schedule is subject to the guide’s arrangements: ⭐09:00 Depart from the meeting point at Operngasse 8, 1010 Vienna ⭐10:15 Stop in Dürnstein for 60 minutes ⭐11:15 Depart ⭐11:45 Arrive at the Danube; 1 hour 35 minutes on a boat cruise in summer only ⭐13:30 Guided tour of Melk Abbey and free time ⭐16:30 Depart (this is not the actual tour time; please pay close attention to your guide’s instructions!) ⭐18:00 Return to Vienna; end of tour

Important notes

Note: All times shown on this webpage are for reference only. Actual arrival times may be delayed due to circumstances beyond our control, such as weather, traffic congestion, traffic accidents, festivals or sporting events, civil unrest, or strikes. We appreciate your understanding. If you have onward travel plans involving other transportation to another city, we strongly recommend allowing at least 3 hours of extra time to avoid inconvenience caused by delays. Our company accepts no responsibility for losses arising from travel arrangements you make yourself without allowing sufficient extra time. Thank you for your understanding.

Meals

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Accommodation

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Attraction details

Melk Abbey

Melk Abbey

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Melk Abbey is one of the most important attractions in this town and the entire Danube Valley. It stands majestically atop a hill on the banks of the Danube. Founded in 1089, it was renovated between 1702 and 1736, when Baroque decorations were added. The abbey houses a library and museum, with many exquisite frescoes and precious medieval manuscripts.