Attractions and Places To See in the Bezirk Krems - Top 20

The Bezirk Krems is rich in history. You can visit the iconic Dürnstein Castle Ruins, famous for holding King Richard the Lionheart. Explore the medieval charm of Dürnstein Old Town and the historic streets of Krems Old Town and Stein, both part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other notable sites include the Steiner Tor, Gozzoburg palace, Benedictine Göttweig Abbey, and the Piaristenkirche.

Yes, the Bezirk Krems offers several family-friendly options. Many of the settlements like Spitz on the Danube and Dürnstein Old Town are great for exploring with children. Cycling along the Danube Cycle Path or the Wachau Vineyards Route can also be enjoyable for families. The Kittenberger Erlebnisgärten provide a natural and recreational experience suitable for all ages.

The region is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. You can enjoy cycling along the Danube Cycle Path or through the vineyards. For hiking, there are numerous trails, including short walks, circular routes, and long-distance paths like the Wachau World Heritage Trail. You can find detailed routes for cycling, hiking, and running in the area on our dedicated guides: Cycling in the Bezirk Krems, Hiking in the Bezirk Krems, and Running Trails in the Bezirk Krems.

For stunning panoramic views, head to the Dürnstein Castle Ruins, which offer breathtaking vistas of the Danube and the surrounding landscape. The medieval Hinterhaus Castle ruins above Spitz on the Danube also provide spectacular views. For experienced hikers, the High Rock offers fantastic views over the Wachau Valley from 712 meters.

The Wachau Valley is beautiful year-round, but for hiking, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are particularly recommended. During these seasons, the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the blooming apricot trees in spring or the vibrant colors of the vineyards in autumn. The Spitzer Weinherbst in autumn is also a great time to experience the local wine culture.

Krems is a hub for culture and art. The Kunstmeile Krems features several institutions, including the Lower Austria State Gallery, the Caricature Museum Krems (unique in Austria), and the Kunsthalle Krems, showcasing contemporary art. You can also explore the Museumkrems, housed in a former Dominican monastery, for insights into the city's history and contemporary art.

The Bezirk Krems is characterized by the majestic Danube River, which carves its way through the landscape, and the terraced vineyards that are a defining feature of the Wachau Valley. These vineyards, particularly around Spitz on the Danube and Vineyards Near St. Michael, contribute to the region's stunning natural beauty. You can also find unique natural attractions like the Mammutbäume am Eichberg (giant redwood trees).

Absolutely! The Wachau Valley is world-renowned for its wines and Wachau apricots, which are under EU protection. Many local wineries, such as Weingut Stadt Krems, offer tastings. You can cycle through the Wachau Vineyards Route to see the source of these famous products. The Wachauer Safran Manufaktur also offers insights into local saffron production.

Visitors consistently praise Dürnstein for its picturesque charm and rich history. The Old Town, with its narrow streets and historic buildings, makes you feel transported back to the Middle Ages. The breathtaking views from the Dürnstein Castle Ruins are also a major highlight, offering a unique blend of history and scenic beauty.

Yes, for a unique experience, you can take the Spitz–Arnsdorf Cable Ferry. This traditional cable ferry provides a charming way to cross the Danube between Spitz and Arnsdorf, offering lovely views of the river and surrounding landscape.

While many viewpoints involve some elevation, some sections of the Vineyards Near St. Michael and the Danube Cycle Path 🚲 Krems–South Bank offer relatively flat terrain with scenic views that can be enjoyed by wheelchair users.