Summary
- Wachau and Danube Valleys Combo Tour from Vienna
- Wachau Valley River Cruise with 3-Course Meal from Krems
- Wachau Valley Winery Tour by Bike
- Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting
- Full-Day Wachau Valley Small Group E-Bike Tour from Vienna
- 5-Hour Wachau River Cruise from Melk
- Wine Tasting on Traditional Wooden Boats
- Wachau Valley Wine Tour by Kayak
- Self-Guided Bike Tour of the Danube and Wachau Valley
- Zillenfahrt Wine Tour through the Wachau Valley
The 25-mile stretch of the picturesque valley that runs alongside the Danube River between the Austrian towns of Melk and Krems is so extraordinary that it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage and Nature site.
Its proximity to Vienna offers numerous touring options from various towns that showcase the area’s historical landmarks, vineyards, and unparalleled natural beauty.
The region is filled with charming old-world villages, artistic galleries, majestic castles, and delightful cafes. Additionally, there are plentiful outdoor activities available for visitors interested in sports and recreation.
Below are ten of the most recommended tours in the Wachau Valley.
1. Wachau and Danube Valleys Combo Tour from Vienna
With its impressive castles, idyllic rural landscapes, mountains, and winding rivers, it is difficult to find a more romantic setting than Austria’s Wachau Valley.
This tour of the Wachau and Danube Valley commences and concludes in Vienna, making it an excellent choice for first-time visitors to the area.
The excursion includes segments by bus and boat, accompanied by engaging and informative commentary from a knowledgeable local guide.
Participants will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, expansive vineyards, and intriguing manmade structures like Dürnstein Castle.
It is important to note that boat excursions are only available during summer months due to river and weather conditions.
The duration of this tour is approximately 8.5 hours.
2. Wachau Valley River Cruise with 3-Course Meal from Krems
Past visitors of this five-hour cruise along the Wachau Valley from Krems often cite it as one of the most unforgettable experiences of their Lower Austria journey.
Experiencing a three-course meal aboard a luxurious vessel on the ancient Danube River is uniquely delightful.
Depending on the weather conditions, guests may enjoy views from the outdoor deck of the boat; however, there are ample indoor seating options providing unobstructed views should the weather be inclement.
Attractions include castles, vineyards, and some of the most stunning natural landscapes imaginable.
Additionally, a fully-stocked bar is available for those wishing to enjoy a Viennese-style coffee or a beverage of choice.
3. Wachau Valley Winery Tour by Bike
It is not common for locations to receive the title of ‘World’s Best Historic Destination,’ but in 2008, the Wachau Valley earned such an accolade.
While boat and bus tours are highly popular and certainly worth the experience, for those with abundant energy, cycling through the valley presents an exceptional means to appreciate its grandeur.
Although tours may include regions with moderate difficulty, most routes are accessible to individuals with moderate fitness levels.
The duration of this tour is about 9.5 hours, offering ample opportunities to stop and admire castles, vineyards, and the river, as well as a chance for a refreshing swim if desired.
4. Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting
Experiencing the Wachau Valley without sampling its exquisite wines is akin to enjoying the final game of the World Series without indulging in a hot dog and beer.
This comprehensive day tour features transportation via a Mercedes van to multiple local wineries, where guests will gain insights into grape cultivation, the production process, and will have the opportunity to sample various delightful wines.
During the period from late April to early October, there’s also a river cruise component included in the tour; however, if your visit occurs during winter, it will be replaced by a visit to the historic Melk Abbey.
This jam-packed nine-hour tour is a must for wine enthusiasts.
5. Full-Day Wachau Valley Small Group E-Bike Tour from Vienna
E-bikes provide an excellent mode of transportation for enthusiastic and energetic travelers, as they enable riders to burn calories while offering additional support when navigating hilly terrain.
During spring and summer, the Wachau Valley typically flourishes with sunshine, wildflowers, and a seemingly endless array of breathtaking vistas.
Participants will cycle through the country’s most renowned wine region, stopping at local vineyards, and taking a moment to unwind and savor the fruits of the vintner’s labor.
Beginning and concluding in Vienna, these tours serve as ideal day-trip options for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital city.
The tours include transportation, a guide, bike, and helmet.
6. 5-Hour Wachau River Cruise from Melk
The river cruise season in the Wachau Valley generally extends from March through October or November. For those not susceptible to sudden bouts of seasickness, there is truly no better way to experience the valley and the Danube River.
In the spring, the landscape presents a delightful combination of green forests, blossoming apricot trees, and gently flowing waters that reflect the sunlight.
This picturesque scene is likely why it has consistently ranked among the world’s most extraordinary destinations.
The tour vessels offer ample indoor and outdoor seating, with onboard bars and restaurants providing a variety of meal options.
River cruises are also accessible for strollers and wheelchairs, making them suitable for families.
7. Wine Tasting on Traditional Wooden Boats
Be it through fashion and music or hairstyles and cocktails, the vintage trend is sweeping the globe.
Undoubtedly, traditional wooden boats that once navigated the peaceful waters of the Danube are regaining popularity, particularly among tourists.
These small-group, guided boat tours offer a perfect opportunity for those desiring a more intimate experience.
Although the tours last only between two to three hours, they provide guests the chance to admire the narrow valleys, forested mountains, and rugged cliffs that define the region, all while enjoying superb wine.
Most travelers can participate; however, wheelchair users may face difficulty.
8. Wachau Valley Wine Tour by Kayak
Just as craft breweries and vinyl albums have made a comeback, kayaks have re-emerged as a thrilling and calorie-burning way to explore the wonders of the Wachau Valley.
This valuable kayak and wine tour is a private small-group activity, ensuring participants won’t be overwhelmed by large crowds.
Instead, paddlers will savor stunning views of the historical river, postcard-perfect villages, and terraced vineyards that adorn the majestic mountains.
Guides are not only experienced kayakers but also knowledgeable wine connoisseurs who prioritize safety and strive to make each journey a memorable experience.
9. Self-Guided Bike Tour of the Danube and Wachau Valley
For individuals with over a week to spend making unforgettable memories, there may be no more distinctive way to explore the Wachau Valley than by embarking on this self-guided bicycle tour.
This tour spans eight days and seven nights, allowing fit cyclists the opportunity to explore at their leisure and in detail.
While participants are responsible for transportation between stopping points, numerous amenities are included throughout the journey, such as lodging at three and four-star hotels, certain meals, and provisions for bikes, helmets, and GPS navigation.
The extensive amount of information exceeds that which can be relayed here; however, participants can anticipate ample opportunities to discover historic castles, expansive vineyards, and picturesque villages that seem to have been plucked from a fairy tale.
For further details, please refer to the link below.
10. Zillenfahrt Wine Tour through the Wachau Valley
There exists no inferior way to take in the sights of the Wachau Valley.
Whether it is via tour boat, kayak, e-bike, or climate-controlled van, the valley’s beauty is genuinely awe-inspiring.
This wine-tasting and sightseeing tour experience varies with each visit, as the operators frequently tailor it to ensure guests are taken to the most captivating areas during their stay.
This means enjoying the best views while sampling wines from select wineries offering seasonal delicacies at their peak flavor profiles.
The tours can accommodate up to a dozen guests and start and end in the town of Spitz on the Danube.
