Yes! Dogs are welcome. Just inform us of the breed and size when booking. Hotels may charge small cleaning fees payable locally.

How difficult is the hiking?

Rated Grade 2 (easy to moderate) – 4–6 hours of walking daily on good trails. Suitable for anyone with average fitness.

When does the Danube boat run?

Mid-April to October. Outside these dates, you’ll travel by bus.

What luggage arrangements are included?

Your luggage is transferred daily (max. 20 kg per bag). You just carry a light daypack.

Can I add extra nights?

Absolutely – extend your stay in Krems or any village.

Wachau Trail Hike: 8-Day Castles, Wine & Danube Cruise

Step into Austria’s most romantic river valley, where the Danube flows past terraced vineyards, medieval ruins, and apricot orchards. This 8-day hiking adventure on the Wachau World Heritage Trail combines panoramic trails, charming villages, wine tasting, and cultural treasures. Perfect for hikers, nature lovers, and even those traveling with dogs!

Cost

Cost Includes

7 nights in 3–4★ hotels (upgradeable to Charme category)
Daily breakfast
1 wine tasting
Luggage transfers between hotels
Route maps, GPS app access, English descriptions

Cost Excludes

Transport to/from Krems
3 x ferry tickets (~€6 pp each)
Bus ticket Aggsbach → Melk (~€6 pp)
Tourist tax (if applicable)
Handling fee (€20)
Travel insurance

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Discover the enchanting Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, where each day brings a new slice of Austria’s cultural and natural beauty. Hike through sun-drenched vineyards, explore ancient castles, and sail along the mighty Danube. With luggage transfers, charming accommodations, and authentic wine experiences included, all you need is a light backpack and a spirit for adventure.

Trip Highlights

Ruins of Dürnstein – Legendary castle ruins with epic Danube valley views.
Vineyards & wineries – Taste Wachau’s world-famous wines and apricot specialties.
Seekopf Peak – Panoramic views stretching to the Alps.
Danube boat trip – Cruise from Melk to Krems past Spitz and Dürnstein.
Aggstein Ruin – Explore medieval ruins on the St. James’ Route.
Melk Abbey – A baroque masterpiece towering above the Danube.
Charming Villages – Stay in Krems, Weißenkirchen, Spitz, and Melk in cozy 3–4★ hotels.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Krems

Arrive in the picturesque town of Krems, just 90 km from Vienna (easy train connection). Stroll along cobblestone streets and settle into your hotel. Overnight in Krems.

Day 02 :

Krems → Dürnstein

Climb through vineyards with sweeping views of the Danube and Göttweig Abbey. Pause at the rustic Fesslhütte before descending to the storybook village of Dürnstein, crowned with castle ruins. Overnight in Dürnstein.

Day 03 :

Dürnstein → Weißenkirchen

Ferry across the Danube to Rossatz, passing Austria’s apricot heartland. Hike up to Seekopf (671m) for alpine panoramas, or take a gentler riverside walk. Overnight in Weißenkirchen.

Day 04 :

Leisure in Weißenkirchen

Enjoy a rest day in the Wachau’s largest wine community. Visit the Gothic parish church, wander vineyard trails, or join an apricot or wine tasting. Optional hike to local winemakers. Overnight in Weißenkirchen.

Day 05 :

Weißenkirchen → Spitz

Follow wine trails past cellar alleys and terraced vineyards, descending into Spitz through the iconic “Red Gate.” Overnight in Spitz.

Day 06 :

Spitz → Melk (via Aggstein Ruin)

Ferry to Maria Langegg and walk the St. James Route to the dramatic Aggstein Castle. After soaking up views, descend to Aggsbach and catch a bus to Melk. Overnight in Melk.

Day 07 :

Danube Cruise to Krems

Visit magnificent Melk Abbey before boarding a Danube riverboat. Drift past Wachau’s vineyards, castles, and villages en route back to Krems. Overnight in Krems.

Day 08 :

Departure

After breakfast, check out and continue your journey—or extend your stay in the Wachau!

Hike the Wachau World Heritage Trail – 8 Days of Castles, Vines & Culture

Duration

Group Size

Hike the Wachau World Heritage Trail – 8 Days of Castles, Vines & Culture