MELK ABBEY (STIFT MELK)

This day trip will take you from Vienna to Wachau, a beautiful valley located next to the Danube River in Austria. Board a premium air-conditioned bus, and enjoy a relaxing ride to the destination. You will travel through the serene Austrian countryside and arrive at Durnstein after a short ride. Of castles and abbeys The ruins of Durnstein castle can be seen on a nearby hill. The English king, Richard the Lionheart, was held captive in this castle in the 12th century. This area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features numerous monasteries, medieval castles, and a breathtaking landscape. One of the highlights of the tour is an optional visit to the Melk Abbey. Located on a rocky outcrop of a cliff, overlooking the Danube River, the Melk Abbey was founded in the latter half of the 11th century. The current abbey was built in 1736 in the Baroque style and features eye-catching frescoes by Johann Michael Rottmayr and a library with innumerable medieval manuscripts. Enjoy free time in Melk and based on the option selected by you, have fun on a boat ride during summer or savor a scrumptious lunch during winter months. Depending on the season, visit the historic city of Krems, at the heart of the Wachau wine-growing region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich architectural and agricultural heritage. You may also get to visit Dürnstein. It is a charming town known for its historic ruins and blue church tower. It’s also associated with the story of King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned here. The day trip will come to an end after this, and you will return to the Vienna State Opera on the bus.