This article describes the best things to do in the Wachau Valley, Austria, an area known for its red-roofed towns, castles, vineyards and stunning abbeys.
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During the last days of July, I started to plan our big trip of the year. The goal was to secure airfare and accommodation for mid-October.
Things turned out better than I was expecting. A flight departing the last week of August was better priced than all the flights I was researching for October. I ended up booking that flight.
The thing is that that purchase gave us only seven weeks before the trip. I bought the tickets on a Thursday and told my husband I was going to ground myself on Saturday afternoon. I decided on the final route, booked accommodation and transportation.
Everything was ready except for one thing: a day trip I wanted to make from Vienna.
I procrastinated for two months. I ended up booking an excursion to the Wachau Valley my first night in Vienna. I couldn’t decide between exploring independently or going on a guided tour.
In retrospective, I believe my indecision was trying to save me from the inevitable. The tour performance ended up being terrible. Their disorganization drove me crazy on several occasions.
But, here is the main point I want to make. No tour company or guide or individual or weather condition or service provided was strong enough to tarnish my day in the Wachau Valley.
After seeing this place, I can say without a doubt that this is the best day trip from Vienna and one of the most beautiful places I have seen in Europe. Better yet, this place is a destination on its own.
In the end, it doesn’t matter if you have a day or two in the Wachau Valley. This guide will give you plenty of ideas to plan a visit!
Table of Contents
Context
This 24 miles (40 km) stretch of the Danube between the towns of Krems and Melk is as pretty as river valleys come. The place is a dream come true. I am not exaggerating. I felt like most of the people around were dancing on their tiptoes to the tune of imaginary music.
The Wachau Valley has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it is one of the most prominent destinations in Lower Austria.
The town of Krems is located 48 miles (76.6 km) from Vienna. This makes the area an easy day trip (or weekend trip) from the big city.
Things to Do in the Wachau Valley
Here is a list of things to do in the area. Keep in mind several of these attractions are better seen from a boat (from Spitz to Melk).
Krems
With about 24,000 residents, Krems is the biggest town in the Wachau Valley. The oldest part of town used to be surrounded by a defensive wall. Nowadays, Krems is famous for its 15th-century gate, Steiner Tor. The gate was restored to its former glory in 2005 to celebrate the 1,000-year anniversary of the city.
While in Krems, you can walk the old streets, buy pastries at a local bakery, indulge in a glass of wine produced in the area and try the famous peach liqueur.
The city counts with several museums too (modern art, caricature, history).
Durnstein
Durnstein is notorious for two things, its blue church, which can be toured for a small fee, and its castle ruins. The visit to the castle is free but get prepared since it is a steep ride to the top. Once on the castle grounds, get prepared for gorgeous views of the Danube and nearby towns. King William Lionheart was a castle prisoner in 1192 during the third crusade.
The town has several restaurants, wineries and ice cream shops. The area surrounding the town is covered in vineyards and orchards (many welcome visitors).
Active visitors may prefer to take one of the hiking trails connecting the town with its natural surroundings.
Spitz
Spitz is very small and it appeals to those who enjoy outdoor (walking, hiking, biking) or gastronomic (fine dining, wine tasting) activities. The Hinterhaus Castle is located in the south part of town. In addition, it is a popular place to take the boat to Melk.
Hinterhaus Castle
South of Spitz, a nearly thousand-year-old medieval fortress, called Hinterhaus, stands with its Gothic bulwark and Renaissance fortifications. Locals assure the castle is haunted and many tales and legends have grown up around these ruins.
Willendorf
This tiny town is known among pre-historians as the town where the oldest piece of European art was found. The Venus of Willendorf, a 30,000-year-old fertility symbol, was found here.
Aggstein Ruin
The cool thing about visiting the valley for the first time is that you do not know what you are going to find after each turn and twist.
I got really excited when I spotted the Aggstein Castle in the distance. Can you tell I am a castle lover?
This castle is located 300 meters (980 ft) above the Danube. I was lucky to get some decent photos using my camera’s zoom.
The ruin can be visited daily. It can be accessed from the road that runs parallel to the valley or the road that runs behind the valley. Those who visit with a car can drive to the top. Another alternative is to take the bus from Krems to Melk and get down below the ruins. Expect a 20-minute hike up to the castle if you choose this option.
Aggsbach Markt and Aggsbacg Dorf
I loved passing by these colorful and cute towns.
Schönbühel Monastery
This monastery was founded in the 17th by an aristocratic family who had converted to Catholicism. It was as a pilgrimage church that the monastic church gained fame.
Schönbühel Castle
Even after seeing a lot of beautiful sights along the valley, I was still waiting to pass by one particular place. I knew we had arrived because the boat slowed down. We were passing by Schönbühel Castle. This is one of the most famous landmarks in the Valley (and in the entire country).
The origins of the castle date from the early 12th century. The castle is built on a rock approximately 40 meters (130 ft) above the level of the river Danube. A Roman fortress may have stood there before. Through the years, the castle has had many owners.
To me, this castle lived up to the expectations. I found it very unique and regal. I wish I could have stopped there to get a closer look. Hope this is something I can do in the future.
Emmersdorf
This is another small and colorful town in the valley. This town is distinct because it has a structure that resembles an aqueduct (but I am not sure what it is).
Melk
Melk is home to the Benedictine Abbey of the same time. This place is one of Austria’s treasures. It is considered the highlight of the entire area.
Melk Abbey is one of the biggest and most beautiful European Baroque ensembles. The Abbey was constructed over a rock overlooking the Danube.
A visit of the monastery includes the Imperial Staircase, the Imperial Corridor, the abbey museum, the Marble Hall, the balcony, the library and the abbey church as well as the abbey park with its Baroque pavilion and many other accents, the Northern Bastion with the Wachau Lab and a panoramic terrace, the mineral collection, and special exhibitions.
Visits to the Abbey are only possible with a guided tour. Check out times before stopping by (especially if you speak a language different from English).
During your visit, you can check out the Abbey grounds and the town of Melk.
Beyond Melk
Since you are in the area, you may want to check the Schallaburg and Artstetten Castles. The first one is a beautiful example of Renascence architecture and the second one is known for its seven onion towers.
How to Visit
There are two main ways to visit the Wachau Valley: with a guided tour or independently.
Taking a Tour
The easiest way to visit the Wachau Valley is by taking a guided tour. Several companies offer options from Vienna. Therefore, it is wise to shop around before settling on a price.
I visited the area with Vienna Sightseeing. I do not recommend the company. They turned to be very disorganized. The number of participants in their tours is over 50 and we missed a stop on our tour because people arrived late to the meeting point (the company denied this).
If you chose to visit on a tour, I recommend picking a company that specializes in small groups (15 or less). Also, make sure they have a clear itinerary (and you know what places are going to be visiting). If you speak a language other than English, do not sign on for a multi-lingual tour. You will thank me later!
The most popular tour will follow this itinerary (more or less):
- Most tours include hotel pickup. You will be taken to a meeting point where you are going to meet the rest of the group
- The first part of the tour is a bus ride through the storybook towns of Krems and Durnstein (there are other small towns on the route). The panorama in the valley is famous for its vineyards and orchards. The wines produced in the region are some of the most prized in Austria
- Some tours make a stop for photos in Durnstein or Krems
- The second part of the tour includes a boat ride from Spitz to Melk. There is an opportunity to look at several buildings in town while waiting for the boat. From what I learned, the arrival and departure times of the boats are estimated. It depends on how the river current is on that particular day
- The boat ride is the best part of the day. You have the option to sit in the uncovered area. I recommend grabbing one of those seats to have outstanding views of the valley. Semi and total covered areas were available too. Delicious food and drinks are available at the boat
- The boat ride will end at Melk. The tour bus will be waiting on the docks and drive you to the Abbey entrance. A one hour guided tour of the Abbey is included. Before entering the Abbey for the tour, you will be given an hour to see the surroundings. This is your opportunity to eat something if you didn’t grab anything on the boat. Your time in Melk will feel very tight. You will not have time to check out the town of Melk (only the Abbey)
- After Melk, you return to Vienna by bus
Other tours concentrate on wine tasting and biking.
Visiting Independently
After my less than ideal experience with a tour group, I have no option than to recommend an independent visit to the Wachau Valley. You can do everything that is included on a tour at a cheaper price and at your own pace. There are at least two ways to plan your day trip:
- From Vienna’s Westbahnhof, take the train to Krems (requires changing trains in St. Polten), check out the town, take a bus to the town of Durnstein, check out the town, take a boat ride to Melk, tour the abbey, check out the town and take the train back to Vienna
- Or, take the train to Melk and do the abbey first thing in the day, take the boat to Spitz or Durnstein and continue moving by bus or train. Return to Vienna in the evening
- Whatever you do, do not miss the boat ride!
- Keep in mind the day will be extremely busy if you chose to condense your visit to one day
- To be honest, one day in the Wachau is difficult. I believe the area deserves two or three days. There is too much to see!
Resources
- This site can help you to plan your trip.
- Lower Austria
More of Vienna
- What to Do in Vienna
- One Day in Vienna
- Day Trips from Vienna
- Naschmarkt: Vienna’s Largest Market
- Schonbrunn Palace
After visiting, our hearts were bursting with joy. Till this day we talk about our day in the Wachau Valley. With Cesky Krumlov, it was our favorite destination of the trip. I long for the day when I can return to this place that stole my heart.
Have you visited the Wachau Valley?
Anna says
I’ve visited Melk ages ago,but I guess we got the direct road from Vienna rather than the Danube one. It is very picturesque indeed…I love all those cute villages along the river!
Ruth says
I didn’t have enough time to explore enough of Melk. I couldn’t go to the town on take a look at the front facade of the Abbey. I feel like I have to go again.
David says
I just visited the Wachau Valley for the 3rd time last week and it is so beautiful. I had never spotted Schönbühel before and now I’m going to have go yet again to see it. Such a beautiful area and so close to Vienna. I agree you need multiple days.
Ruth says
David, that is great. I will go again without thinking about it. I want to stop by Krems and Durnstein and it would not hurt going to Melk again.
Phoebe | Lou Messugo says
It all looks so picture perfect. I haven’t been but my parents went on a cruise there a couple of years ago and raved about it. Thanks for being honest about the tour company, that’s worth knowing. #mondayescapes
Ruth says
After seeing this place, I understand why a lot of people are interested in river cruises. The rivers in Europe are way too scenic and picturesque. I loved this experience and will like to repeat it.
MJ Monk says
Hi! I was born there and lived in our market town of Spitz. My birthplace is a large old house that serviced the castle Hinterhaus, now a Ruin, of course. Love going back. The popular river cruises heavily contribute to the contamination of the river (raw sewage from all the ships) and also the wear and tear of the stops. Dürnstein has had to apply for assistance to help with upkeep and repair expenses of their town (actually a city since 1492). It only has about 900 residents. Not enough to carry the necessary expenditures of non-paying tourists the ships bring in. Tourism is counted in number of beds and meals in local establishments that pay back in taxes. The cruise tourists do not count. They are actually known as the coffee-and-pastry-only tourists, if at all. They are not big spenders either when it comes to shopping for local goods. In other words, the cruise ship companies make all of the money. It is so sad as this area is not the only one in Europe who has become disenchanted with being taken advantage of. Many towns would love to be dropped as a cruise ship stop and are trying.
ladyfi says
So gorgeous!! I love that monastery.
Ruth says
The monastery is larger than life. And, you would not believe the views from the terrace.
Photo Cache says
Views like these are why I am so interested in European River cruises. We’re stalking all the travel companies for time when the price drops to a manageable level so we can take that cruise.
Ruth says
I think you can find good prices if you book a yer to 9 months before the trip. That is when they do 2 for 1 and free airfare specials.
Kathrin Schönberg says
I’ve never been to this Valley, but it looks gorgeous with all these quaint villages along the river. I will definitely look into that for my next extended trip to Europe. You had wonderful weather, too 🙂 #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
I am glad you discovered a new place! I should be fun to add it to an European itinerary.
Sarah Christie says
Ah its such a shame your guides were so un organised. The views look incredible all those little houses and the pretty colours I would have been in my element, thanks so much for linking up #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
Well, I tried not to pay attention to their mess. As I said, the scenery was too pretty to to be in a bad mood.
image-in-ing: weekly photo linky says
Positively gorgeous!
Thanks for linking up at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/10/playing-with-photoshop.html
Ruth says
Thanks!
Andrea says
Oh great, despite your disappointment the photos are still superbly taken and it is amazing that you didn’t miss any name. They are all very interesting most specially to me whom places like these are alien. I love most that small community along the river where the background is a forest, which i am sure will be fantastic in Autumn. Thanks for the tour.
Ruth says
Well, the ship had brochures of the area. That brochure had a map with the name of the towns (I knew it was going to be a big help at the moment of writing the posts). It also has the boat itineraries in the Valley. That will help with future plans.
Bumble Bee Mum says
Wow.. The photos are just amazing! I would be pretty annoyed to miss a stop because people were late, but I’m not sure if I were to go independently, I would be able to cover quite so many stops in one day. It does look like a place that would warrant more than a day. Heck, I wouldn’t mind living here. #MondayEscapes
Ruth says
You are so right! It would be a dream to live in the area. Imagine all the places you can visit during the weekends. I would love to stay in Europe an extended period of time.
MJ Monk says
Hi! I was born there and lived in our market town of Spitz. My birthplace is a large old house that serviced the castle Hinterhaus, now a Ruin, of course. Love going back. The popular river cruises heavily contribute to the contamination of the river (raw sewage from all the ships) and also the wear and tear of the stops. Dürnstein has had to apply for assistance to help with upkeep and repair expenses of their town (actually a city since 1492). It only has about 900 residents. Not enough to carry the necessary expenditures of non-paying tourists the ships bring in. Tourism is counted in number of beds and meals in local establishments that pay back in taxes. The cruise tourists do not count. They are actually known as the coffee-and-pastry-only tourists, if at all. They are not big spenders either when it comes to shopping for local goods. In other words, the cruise ship companies make all of the money. It is so sad as this area is not the only one in Europe who has become disenchanted with being taken advantage of. Many towns would love to be dropped as a cruise ship stop and are trying.
Baby Isabella says
Thanks for the tip regarding the tour operator, agree its best to travel in smaller groups. Glad it wasn’t enough to tarnish the experience. Wachau Valley looks amazing and your photos from the waterside are jaw-dropping. #MondayEsacpes #CityTripping
Ruth says
I tour the Danube in Hungary with in a small group and that was a different experienced. The guides made sure we were enjoying and we didn’t feel rushed. I cannot complain a lot though. It the day in the Wachau Valley was one of my favorite days of the trip.
Catherine's Cultural Wednesdays says
we cycled in the Wachau this summer (post to follow!) and it was beautiful.
#citytripping
Ruth says
I need to keep my eyes open for the post because I want to see how your experience went.
Corey with fifi + hop says
Wow, all those magnificent castles. The valley looks stunning I can see why a day trip was an absolute must. #citytripping
Ruth says
The castles make everything more special. There is one basically in every town.
Trish @ Mum's Gone To says
These photos remind me of the river cruise I was on last year from Amsterdam to Nuremberg. The castles on the middle Rhine were spectacular. If we had carried on to Budapest we would have seen the Wachau Valley – that’s my plan, to do the second half of the trip. Seeing your photos has made me want this even more.
#mondayescapes
Ruth says
I think visiting the Rhine River is one of my next goals. I am convinced cruising the rivers in Europe is one of the bext things to do.
Julie From Superficial Gallery says
Even though you didn’t enjoy the tour company you gave us a great tour with your amazing shots!
Ruth says
I am glad you liked it. Writing the post brought back so many good memories. I relieved the entire trip.
Samantha says
Beautiful images! I’ve always wanted to visit this area. Looks incredible!
Ruth says
I was blown away by Austria’s natural beauty. I want to discover the lakes and mountains now.
Nell (the Pigeon Pair and Me) says
I’m not surprised you said 2 or 3 days were better than one. I’d have been desperate to get off the boat to see some of these places! The Wachau Valley looks amazing – Austria at its best. That part of the world is travelling swiftly up my must-visit list.
Ruth says
Yes, I feel like stopping at every town. I think next time I am renting bikes and staying in one of the small towns.
Nell (the Pigeon Pair and Me) says
I’m not surprised you recommend 2-3 days instead of 1. I’d have been itching to get off the boat to explore several of these places! The Wachau Valley looks like Austria at its best. Stunning.
Al says
It looks like an amazingly beautiful place, you got great photos of it.
Ruth says
Thanks Al! Glad you liked the photos.
Dudhwa National Park says
So perfect!! I adore that monastery…The photographs are just amazing!..i like your site much obliged for offer with us…
Ruth says
Thanks for stopping by! The monastery is great! I am going to dedicate and entire post to it and to the town.
Rhonda Albom says
Thanks for your honest opinion about the tour company you used. The weather on your tour day looks fabulous. The photos are great.
Ruth says
Thanks Rhonda! The weather was phenomenal that day. I am happy to write about my experience with the tour company. I know it is not going to fly with travelers that have my similar style.
Lolo says
What a lovely area! I am dying to go to Melk because they have a stunning fresco painted staircase I want to see! #WanderfulWednesday
Ruth says
Lolo, I wasn’t able to see the staircase. We had very little time on Melk. So, I want to go back to see what I missed.
Van @ Snow in Tromso says
Beautiful scenery! Totally get your frustration about the tour company though. We went on a bus tour in Spain last month and it was not what we expected either. Really wish we had gone on our own – would have saved so much time by not being forced to stop at tacky souvenir stores 😀
Ruth says
I feel you. At least, I didn’t have to experience the souvenir shop stops. I have been to those on other tours.
Sharon Wagner says
I can see why you loved it. Between the castles and quaint, colorful towns. Picture postcard perfect!
Ruth says
It is true! I am thinking about printing some of these photos. They bring such good memories.
Cathy (Mummytravels) says
What a beautiful area: I don’t know Austria well but what a gorgeous day trip from Vienna. A shame the tour wasn’t quite as good! #citytripping
Ruth says
I think this such be a must if you are in Vienna. It is the perfect opportunity to experience a bit of this place’s charm.
Nathy says
Castles are my #1 FAVORITE thing about Europe. Especially medieval ones. It’s my favorite time period because many of the structures of that time are hundreds of years old but also not old enough to be ruins yet. I love how one of the castles here are clearly medieval and then they built on– in the 18th century it looks like?
Ruth says
Yes, the first castle that appears in here. These places changed owners a lot of times. Many of those owners did their own additions.
Andapo Girl says
Very charming, can imagine the huge stretch and Danube river and checking out the towns from there its one of a kind experience. Good you had a awesome time exploring Wachau Valley, which is a UNESCO site.
Ruth says
Yes, it was a great experience. I am ready to take a look at the valley in another way. I will like to bike around.
Jackie says
We passed through and stopped in some of these towns on a river boat cruise a couple of years ago. I would like to re-do it as was October as it was rather rainy.Also I have a better lens on my camera now!
Ruth says
Wonderful! I would like to take a river cruise one day. Anyway, I hope you get to visit the valley with better weather.
Elizabeth (Wander Mum) says
It looks stunning…even more reason for me to visit Vienna! Shame the tour was a bit rubbish but I love your photos. The castle looks amazing and I am a big fun of those colourful houses. #citytripping
Ruth says
Oh yes! You have to stop by Vienna and spend a day (or more) in here. Everything in this valley is beautiful.
Anda says
I would love to explore Austria in more detail. So far I’ve only been to Vienna, but Wachau Valley is definitely a piece of paradise really worth visiting. Castles, ruins, little towns and a beautiful nature. What more can you ask for? Your pictures are so beautiful, Ruth! They really made me want to go there right now.
Ruth says
Anda, Austria really surprised me. The Wachau Valley was awesome but we also had the opportunity to see the landscape of Upper Austria while driving to the Czech Republic. We fell in love with the country.
Trekking with Becky says
I’m a major castle-lover, and I would’ve gone insane passing them on a boat! I’d want to dock and go explore them.
Ruth says
Becky, believe, it wasn’t easy for me. I wanted to enter every one of those castles. I have seen photos taken from the Aggstein Ruin and they are so gorgeous!
Arnie Jacobsen says
My goodness! What an absolutely fabulous experience!! It’s too bad that the tour was less than stellar. We always love taking small tours. Thank goodness we have always had good ones.
Ruth says
Arnie, I guess it was my fault because I didn’t dig enough on the tour description. Well, at least I had the scenery to cheer me up.
Juliette @ Snorkels to Snow says
Is there anything ugly about Austria? Seriously, every village looks delightful! Beautiful.
Ruth says
That is so true! Austria rocks! I want to see more of it.
Kathy Marris says
Exquisite! The Danube River is spectacular – as is the countryside in Austria. Another country to put on the bucket list!
Ruth says
Kathy, add it to your bucket list! Do not even think twice about it. It is a country like no other.
Paula McInerney says
Out of bad things, good things come like the stunning Wachau Valley. We were astounded at how lovely everything was in Austria, and how very neat…even the farms
Ruth says
Like you mentioned, things in Austria are every near. It was a pleasure to walk around and enjoy what the cities (and countryside) have to offer.
Tracy McConnachie Collins says
I’ve never been though have been to Austria a few times. I would like to visit the Wachau Valey – it looks lovely! It’s a pity the tour was rubbish but glad it didn’t spoil your day.
Ruth says
Well, maybe you should visit Austria again. I am sure there is a lot you have not seen.
Michele {Malaysian Meanders} says
That’s too bad about the disorganized tour, but I’m glad to hear that your enjoyment of the area triumphed over any displeasure at the logistics. I especially like the pictures of the villages as seen from the water with the hills rising up behind them, especially the ones where the leaves on trees are starting to turn colors. You now have me wondering what the inside of those castles is like.
Ruth says
I will like to see the interior of the castles too. Since my camera has a good zoom, I know there were people around.
Different Shores says
I’m a fellow castle-lover! The Wachau Valley looks amazing and I’m interested to hear it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site – I will add to my ever-growing list. It’s good to know that these tour organisers were crap and should be avoided: really, if that’s their main line of business, they have no excuse for being shambolic.
Ruth says
Supposedly, they are the number one tour company in Vienna. They have good reviews. That was one of the reasons I picked them. But, things ended up going in a different way.
Yasha says
Coming from Australia, the history of Europe in such beautiful backdrops never ceases to awe me. This is certainly a beautiful place.
Ruth says
I feel the same way. The waterways in Europe are full of history. I want to visit more rivers in the future.
Michele says
What a stunning area, I have now added it to my never decreasing list of places to visit. The castles look amazing from the river. Thanks for the advice on staying a few days, I hope you get back one day to spend more time seeing what you want.h
Ruth says
I have the same problem. My list of places to visit keeps growing and growing. But little by little, I have been visiting places I have wanted to visit forever.
Photo(Geo)grapher says
What a beautiful trip. Great places to visit and lovely photos
Ruth says
Thanks a lot!
Sallie says
It all looks like a fairy tale to me, especially that Castle on the edge of the cliff. Beautiful pictures…. You certainly had wonderful weather for this tour. Thanks for taking me along!
Ruth says
I can see how the fairy tales got a beginning. These places are so picturesque!
Emily @ Out and About says
I have never heard of the Wachau Valley until now, and it’s definitely going onto my list of places to visit as soon as possible. The pictures are just stunning! Those castles! The valley views! And the monastary! WOW!!!!
Ruth says
Oh, good! I discover new places thru blog posts all the time.
Sally@Toddlers on Tour says
Love the buildings, so feels like you are seeing pictures from a fairy tale – the castle looks as if the princess should be trapped in the top of the turret tower 🙂
Ruth says
Sally, what a nice description! I guess you should show up in costume to this places.
Lauren says
I can’t believe I didn’t hear of this valley on my trip to Austria!! It’s stunning! Sorry the tour ended upbeing a disaster, but still seems like it was worth it!
Ruth says
Well, now you know about it! I heard it is very popular with residents of Vienna.
Corinne says
Ruth, The Wachau Valley has been on my to-do list for a while, but I just never seem to find the time to get over there. It’s only about a four hour drive from my house, so you’d think it would be easier. I’m glad I read your comments before I go. I will be making sure to go when there are fewer tourists, buses, etc, and I will drive. The landscapes are just too pretty to miss! I’m so glad I read your post before I go.
Thanks, Corinne
Ruth says
You are right! A four hour drive is not that much. A long weekend in the valley sounds good.
Nancie Lee says
I love learning about new places!! It looks fabulous. I’m a castle lover too (or anything old) haha. I would have wanted out of the boat!! I will definitely plan to stay a couple days to see the sights. Your photos really capture the beauty and culture. Thanks for sharing this great destination!
Ruth says
Nancie, I a glad you discovered the place the Wachau Valley thru the post. A couple of days will work wonders in this area.
Mary {The World Is A Book} says
Such a wonderful collection of photos from your tour. I have briefly heard of the Wachau Valley and I’m glad you’ve enlightened me. As a castle lover, I so want to go now. I love all the small towns and unique offerings from each town. They’re all so photogenic. Glad you still enjoyed the sights despite the tour company.
Ruth says
This will be a perfect place to explore with your family. It will be cool to combine bikes with boats.
Chloe says
Looks amazing!!! We might be going to Vienna this winter (hoping so bad!!) and this looks so idyllic!! So pretty! Thank you for sharing on FlyAwayFriday and can’t wait to see what you share next!
Ruth says
Cloe, I really wish you can make it to the city soon. I am sure you will love it.
Kana says
The pictures look beautiful! I would LOVE to be there right about now! Thanks for joining Fly Away Friday!
Ruth says
Ok, I will like to be there too. I think I will need to plan moving to Europe ;0)
Mandy says
I always love exploring places by boat. So, was your tour guide that good at helping you remember all of the names of places, did you take copious notes, or did you usual Google reverse image search to remember all of those places? … Or maybe you did a great job researching and knew what to expect to see during your tour? I’m curious, because when I visit new places I often take pictures of things and have no idea what they are (either at the time or when I return home!); I guess it all depends on how well I’ve researched the place I’m visiting and whether or not the building (or mountain or whatever) stands out. 🙂
Ruth says
Mandy, I did two things to remember the names. I took a brochure of the ship line we took. That pamphlet has info about the boat stops and it even has a small map. In addition,I took a picture of a map of the area.
Emily says
Coolll !!! Your photos just make me wanna visit Wachau as soon as possible, they are sooo stunning 🙂
Glad to hear you sharing your experiences in Wachau Valley, Ruth 🙂
Mary-the boondocks blog says
Wow I’m sorry to hear that you had such a disorganized tour. Your photos of the area are gorgeous and make me want to visit all the landmarks.