Wachau World Heritage Trail Stage 1: Krems to Dürnstein
Wachau World Heritage Trail Stage 1: Krems to Dürnstein
4.8
(176)
814
hikers
Wachau World Heritage Trail Stage 1: Krems to Dürnstein
04:05
14.1km
330m
Hiking
Hike the moderate 8.7-mile World Heritage Trail Wachau from Krems to Dürnstein, exploring historic towns, vineyards, and Danube views.
Last updated: February 26, 2026
Waypoints
Start point
Bus stop
Get Directions
575 m
Krems on the Danube
Highlight • Settlement
Translated by Google •
Tip by
769 m
Kunstmeile Krems
Highlight • Historical Site
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Tip by
6.73 km
View of the Danube and the vineyards from Pfaffenberg
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
11.8 km
Vineyard Snail – Wachau Wine View
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Tip by
13.5 km
Dürnstein Old Town
Highlight • Historical Site
Translated by Google •
Tip by
14.1 km
End point
Train Station
Way Types & Surfaces
Way Types
9.22 km
2.91 km
917 m
466 m
394 m
147 m
Surfaces
5.57 km
4.26 km
2.73 km
1.20 km
287 m
< 100 m
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Elevation
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Weather
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Wednesday 27 May
26°C
13°C
0 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 14.0 km/h
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This route was planned by komoot.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the World Heritage Trail Wachau: Stage from Krems to Dürnstein take and what is its difficulty?
This stage typically takes around 4 to 4.5 hours to complete. Komoot estimates it at approximately 4 hours and 5 minutes. It is generally considered moderate in difficulty. While some sections are easy and undulating, others require surefootedness due to steeper, rocky, or wooded paths. Conditions can vary significantly with the season; for instance, winter descriptions sometimes list it as 'Difficult'.
What is the terrain like on this stage of the World Heritage Trail Wachau?
The terrain is quite varied. You'll start in the historic urban areas of Krems and Stein, then transition to charming cellar alleys and extensive vineyards, including the impressive Loibenberg site. The path includes terraced vineyards, ancient wine paths, and some rocky, wooded sections with ancient pines and oaks, particularly beneath the Dürnstein Castle ruins. Expect a mix of packed dirt, gravel, and paved roads.
What are the main points of interest and scenic viewpoints along the route?
You'll encounter numerous highlights. Starting in Krems on the Danube, you can explore the Kunstmeile Krems. As you hike, enjoy the View of the Danube and the vineyards from Pfaffenberg and the Vineyard Snail – Wachau Wine View. The trail culminates in the picturesque Dürnstein Old Town, famous for its castle ruins and monastery. Throughout, you'll have sweeping panoramic views of the Danube Valley and vineyards.
Where does this stage of the World Heritage Trail Wachau start, and how can I access the trailhead?
This stage begins in Krems an der Donau. The Wachau region offers excellent public transport connections, making access easy. You can reach Krems by bus or train. For parking, there are options in Krems, but it's advisable to check local parking availability, especially during peak season. Public transport also allows for flexible return options from Dürnstein.
Is the trail dog-friendly?
Yes, the World Heritage Trail Wachau is generally dog-friendly. However, given that parts of the trail pass through vineyards, historic towns, and potentially near wildlife, it's always recommended to keep your dog on a leash. Please also ensure you carry water for your dog and clean up after them.
What is the best time of year to hike this trail?
The best time to hike this trail is typically from spring to autumn. During these seasons, the vineyards are lush, and the weather is generally pleasant for hiking. Autumn, in particular, offers stunning fall foliage and the opportunity to experience the wine harvest. While possible in winter, some sections can become difficult due to snow or ice, requiring appropriate gear and caution.
Are there any permits or entrance fees required for hiking in the Wachau region?
No, there are generally no permits or entrance fees required to hike this stage of the World Heritage Trail Wachau. The trail is freely accessible to the public. However, you might incur costs for parking, public transport, or any specific attractions you choose to visit in Krems or Dürnstein.
Does this trail connect with other hiking paths?
Yes, this stage of the World Heritage Trail Wachau intersects with several other paths. Notably, it largely follows the Welterbesteig Wachau Etappe 1 (97% coverage). You'll also find sections that overlap with the Danube Cycle Path (part Lower Austria), EuroVelo 6 - part Austria - leg 6 north (Mauthausen - Altwörth), and the Jakobsweg Weinviertel, among others.
Is this stage of the World Heritage Trail suitable for families?
This stage is generally considered suitable for families, especially those with older children who are accustomed to hiking. Its 'moderate' difficulty means it's not overly strenuous, but some steeper sections require surefootedness. The varied scenery, historical sites, and the destination of Dürnstein make it an engaging experience for many families. Always assess your family's fitness level before embarking.
What makes the Wachau region and this trail so special?
The Wachau region, and therefore this trail, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's recognized for its unique cultural landscape, traditional viticulture, and the profound influence of the Danube River. This stage specifically offers an immersive experience into the region's wine culture, connects the urban heritage of Krems with the medieval charm of Dürnstein, and consistently provides breathtaking panoramic views. It also holds the Austrian Hiking Quality Seal.
Are there places to eat or stay near the trail?
Absolutely! Both Krems and Dürnstein offer a wide range of amenities. In Krems, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and accommodation options. Dürnstein, as a popular tourist destination, also has many charming eateries, wine taverns (Heurigen), and hotels, perfect for relaxing and enjoying local cuisine and wine after your hike.
Is there an insider tip for hiking this stage of the World Heritage Trail?
For a truly immersive experience, consider starting your hike early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility of the vineyards and avoid the busiest times, especially during peak season. Also, take advantage of the excellent public transport connections; you can easily take a bus or train back to Krems from Dürnstein, allowing you to fully enjoy the linear route without worrying about returning to your starting point by foot.
Nearby routes
Trail Reviews
You can find out more about the hike here: https://wiewarsdort.at/info/welterbesteig-wachau-etappe-1.html
The World Heritage Trail starts directly in the historic district of Krems. And while on many previous hikes I've tried to leave the city behind me as quickly as possible and instead immerse myself in the nearest nature without detours, this morning I'm consciously taking my time. In Krems, the cobblestones connect listed Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings, here and there a fountain splashes, the market square is lively and the facades are colorful. When we're ready to say goodbye to the labyrinth of pretty streets, it doesn't take long before we get a look at it from above. The panorama at the upper end of the Kreuzbergstiege extends over the entire city. The Danube glitters silver in the sunlight. And at our feet lies a pretty promising preview of what awaits us during the coming stages of the World Heritage Trail. Although we continue walking and Krems becomes smaller and smaller behind us, we don't have to miss out on the panoramic view of the Danube Valley throughout the entire stage: the World Heritage Trail leads here as a high-altitude path between the vines. And there are not only plenty of views, but also inviting places to take a break. So it happens that we are on the road all day for the leisurely 14 kilometers - and we can marvel at our destination for today, the impressive Dürnstein castle ruins, in the light of the setting sun.
Wachau World Heritage Trail - Today we started in Krems and hiked to Dürnstein. A great start with perfect hiking weather and fantastic views 🥾🥾
On the day of Prince Charles' coronation, which we briefly witness with a glass of Wachau sparkling wine, a new era begins for us too: we start long-distance hiking. 🎉🥳 The official start of the world heritage trail is in the middle of the city of Krems, but we start at the Krems train station, since the 715 bus will return there later, which allows us this lazy long-distance hike with its service without having to carry luggage. The first stage of the World Heritage Trail is scenically beautiful. Only the many asphalt spoils the hiking mood a bit. 🤨 A visit to the Wachau definitely includes a stop at at least one wine tavern. Since there is a greater chance of an open Heurigen at the weekend at this time of year, we do this "duty" 😉 right after the first few kilometers on our first stage. In the rustic wine tavern we try regional apricot wine and the typical Wachau snacks. A successful start, even if we briefly get caught in the thunderstorms at the end of the tour in Dürnstein due to this extended break. --------------- All of our hikes on the World Heritage Trail are summarized in this collection: https://www.komoot.de/collection/2109626/-welterbesteig There you will find further links.
Today we took the train to Krems an der Donau and started our multi-day hike on the World Heritage Trail. The first leg took us to Dürnstein. A beautiful tour above the Danube Valley with stunning panoramas.
After some confusion and a lot of help from my girlfriend and hiking friends, I got to the Wachau safely. The journey here yesterday was really great, the area is simply wonderful. We rented a very nice holiday apartment and are driven to the start every day and picked up again at the end. Today the first stage from Krems to Dürnstein. Krems is a beautiful old town with many small, lovingly maintained houses. The church at the start is really amazing. After just a few meters, we went up 270 steps ↗️ and our shirt was already sweating through. 29 degrees and humid. From the top, we went through wine-growing areas. The winegrowers use signs to inform people about what kind of wine 🍷 is being grown. To add a little extra character to it all, works of art are constantly being put up. Simply brilliantly done. The route today was a bit like a mountain path, and we could keep looking at the Danube. It was quite busy with excursion boats, inland waterway vessels with their cargo and also river cruise ships. The tour was easy to walk as it was all on paved roads and paths, and they have to get there with their cars when they work in the vineyards. When we arrived in Dürnstein today, it was a Sunday and the old town was very busy as all the shops were open. But it was very nice, wine tastings, there were apricots in every conceivable way of processing. Schnapps, jam and much more. For both of us, it was enough to try apricot dumplings with ice cream. I tell you, delicious 😋
This section is very beautiful and has many great views 👍😎
A very varied mountain trail, with great views of the Danube and the vineyards 👍🌞🥾