The Wachau valley
West of Vienna, the Danube winds through the Wachau, a UNESCO-listed landscape of terraced vineyards, apricot orchards and small medieval towns. The Benedictine abbey at Melk, a vast baroque monastery on a rock above the river, is the region's most famous sight, with a magnificent library and church.
A popular route is to travel by train to Melk, visit the abbey, then take a river boat downstream to Dürnstein or Krems. Dürnstein is known for its blue-and-white church tower and the castle ruins above the town. In spring the apricot trees bloom, and in autumn the grape harvest brings festivals and new wine.
Bratislava
The capital of Slovakia is only about an hour from Vienna by train, making it one of the easiest international day trips in Europe. Its compact old town has a castle on the hill, a gothic cathedral and charming streets with quirky bronze statues. Prices are typically lower than in Vienna, which makes it a pleasant place for a relaxed lunch.
In the warmer months, boats also run along the Danube between the two cities, offering a scenic alternative to the train.
Allow time to walk up to the castle for views over the river and across towards Austria and Hungary, which are both visible from the hill on a clear day.
Lake Neusiedl
South-east of Vienna in the region of Burgenland, Lake Neusiedl is a large, shallow steppe lake surrounded by reeds, vineyards and villages. It is popular for sailing, windsurfing, cycling and birdwatching, and the flat paths around the lake suit leisurely bike rides.
The wine villages nearby are known for red wines and sweet dessert wines, and many have welcoming taverns.
Vienna Woods and Baden
If you prefer to stay close, the Vienna Woods form a green belt on the city's western edge, with walking trails, viewpoints and inns. The spa town of Baden bei Wien, reachable by local train, has elegant villas, parks and thermal baths that have attracted visitors since Roman times.
For flexible exploring, a rental car makes it easier to link the Wachau villages or the lake's shoreline in one day, while trains remain the simplest option for Bratislava and Baden.
Good to know
- Bring your passport or ID card when crossing into Slovakia.
- Check seasonal timetables for Danube boats before you travel.
- Visit the Wachau in spring for apricot blossom or autumn for the harvest.