Throughout Austria, tiny hamlets look as if they’ve been untouched by time. Main squares of stone streets crowded with quaint homes boast red-tiled roofs and imposing medieval churches, and impressive fountains and courtyards are quite common in almost every village. The nation’s architecture, art, and music were shaped by the Habsburg Empire and continue to evoke Austria’s Golden Age. No place exemplifies the Habsburgs more than Vienna and the Schönbrunn Palace, Empress Maria Theresa’s favorite.
Step outside Vienna and discover Austria’s quieter side with a cruise of the UNESCO-blessed Wachau Valley. Tour Melk Abbey, once the greatest center of learning in Central Europe, and head further down the Danube to find wineries in Weissenkirchen just waiting for your arrival.
Nestled in the heart of Europe, Austria boasts a treasure trove of must-see gems. In Vienna, you can retrace the steps of the imperial Habsburgs on tours of the opulent Schönbrunn Palace, where Mozart performed at the age of six. A stroll along Old Town’s well-worn tangle of cobbled alleyways leads to the impressive Belvedere Museum, the world’s largest collection of works by Austrian artist Gustav Klimt. Just outside Vienna are the unspoiled riches of Melk with its Baroque abbey and rolling hillsides dotted with vineyards.
If there is one dish synonymous with Austria, it’s Wiener schnitzel, made with veal dredged in flour, egg wash, and breadcrumbs. Discover Austria’s culinary culture at one of the city’s beloved kaffeehaus spots, where you can nibble on cake and coffee. For those with a sweet tooth, try a Mozartkugel, or Mozart ball, a chocolate bon-bon filled with pistachio, marzipan, and nougat.
Just like France and Italy, Austria has distinct wine regions, each offering its unique charm and selection of wines with the bright, crisp white Grüner Veltliner variety being the most favored. Vienna lies within the exceptional Burgenland winemaking region, and the renowned vineyards of the Wachau lie just a short way down the Danube.
Set between the towns of Melk and Krems lies the idyllic Wachau Valley, recognized by UNESCO for its scenic beauty. Among this picturesque landscape, you’ll find centuries-old wine estates, houses with colorful flower boxes, lovely gardens, and apricot orchards.
When to go: We sail all of our Austria cruises between March and November, with special holiday cruises in December to enjoy the iconic Christmas markets. Spring brings fresh blooms, summer is particularly lively, and fall is a serene time with cooler temps and trees of copper and gold.
How to pack: We suggest comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear both onshore and onboard. Depending on your travel season, the weather can range from cool to quite hot. Check the weather before you go and pack accordingly. Layering clothing items is always your best bet, allowing you to adjust to most temperatures. Pack a lightweight waterproof jacket (preferably hooded) in case of rain, though we will also have umbrellas onboard. You may participate in a significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during your time ashore, so please bring comfortable walking shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are another good option.
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Avg. Temp. 58º F / 14º C
Avg. Temp. 33º F / 0.5º C
Euro (EUR, €)
Central European Time (CET)
Central European Summer Time (CEST)
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“Austria always makes me proud to welcome our guests to experience her rich cultural heritage, filled with historical monuments, museums, and cultural landmarks. I always feel at home here, as do our guests and crew onboard.”
“Austria amazes me over and over with its beautiful variety of products from local farmers. I love to bring the fruits of nature from fields, pastures, and mountain lakes onto our plates. I am convinced that you can taste their connection to the region, their passionate work, and their personal stories.”
“Navigating the enchanting waters of the Danube in Austria is just amazing; it’s a symphony of history, art, and nature. As your Cruise Manager, I’m here to orchestrate an unforgettable experience, where Austria’s timeless beauty becomes the backdrop to your unforgettable journey.”
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