A Romantic Advent Journey
Along the Danube

Passau

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.

Krems

Krems, located in Lower Austria in the heart of the Wachau Valley, is a charming town known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and picturesque landscapes. With its tranquil atmosphere and diverse cultural attractions, Krems attracts both nature lovers and history buffs alike. Whether you are interested in exploring ancient castles, visiting world-class museums, or simply enjoying the beauty of the surrounding countryside, Krems has something to offer everyone.

One of the highlights of Krems is its well-preserved medieval old town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Strolling through the narrow streets, you will be transported back in time with the area's historic buildings, charming courtyards, and inviting cafes. The Steiner Tor, an impressive gatehouse dating back to the 15th century, marks the entrance to the old town and is a popular spot for visitors to take pictures.

Art and culture enthusiasts will find plenty to explore in Krems. The town is home to several notable museums, including the Kunsthalle Krems, which showcases contemporary art exhibitions, and the Karikaturmuseum Krems, dedicated to the art of caricature and satire. Additionally, the historic Göttweig Abbey, located just outside of Krems, is a stunning architectural masterpiece and offers guided tours that provide insights into the life of the Benedictine monks.

Nature lovers can indulge in the breathtaking views of the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Landscape. The valley is renowned for its terraced vineyards, which produce some of Austria's finest wines, and is a popular destination for wine enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the numerous wineries and vineyards in the area, participate in wine tastings, or take a leisurely bike ride along the Danube river, soaking in the beauty of the surrounding landscapes.

For those seeking outdoor activities, Krems and its surroundings offer plenty of options. The nearby Danube river provides opportunities for boat cruises or even kayaking and canoeing adventures. Hiking trails can be found in the surrounding vineyards and forests, offering stunning views of the valley.

Food lovers will delight in the local culinary scene in Krems. The town boasts numerous traditional Austrian restaurants, charming cafes, and wine taverns, known as Heuriger, where you can sample regional specialties and delicious wines. The Wachau apricot, a local fruit, is celebrated in various forms such as jams, liqueurs, and desserts, and shouldn't be missed during your visit.

Throughout the year, Krems hosts a variety of events and festivals that add to its vibrant atmosphere. The annual Wachau Marillenblütenfest (apricot blossom festival), held in early spring, celebrates the blooming apricot trees with music, food, and entertainment. The Wachau Gourmet Festival in summer showcases the culinary delights of the region, while the Advent market in December is perfect for immersing oneself in the Christmas spirit.

Krems, with its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, offers a captivating experience for travelers. Whether you are interested in exploring its medieval old town, indulging in local cuisine and wines, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surrounding landscapes, Krems is a destination that should not be missed when traveling to Austria.

Melk

Melk is a beautiful city nestled in the Austrian Alps. It is known for its traditional Austrian charm and breathtaking mountain landscapes.

The city of Melk is a picturesque destination with many attractions. It is home to one of Europe’s largest and most impressive monasteries, the Melk Abbey. Built in the 11th century, this stunning Benedictine monastery has a grand baroque interior and offers guided tours throughout the day. Visitors can explore the abbey's numerous chapels, its library, and the magnificent marble hall.

Another popular destination in Melk is the Schlosspark, a magnificent castle garden dating back to the 17th century. Meandering pathways lead to the top of a hill where visitors can overlook the town below and admire the stunning view of the Danube River. An old summer palace, sculptures, and a grotto can also be found in the park.

Apart from sightseeing, there are plenty of activities to enjoy in this alpine getaway. Hiking is a popular pastime for visitors as the city provides many trails with spectacular scenery to explore. Additionally, biking is a fun way to explore the city’s charming streets and beautiful countryside. Melk also offers swimming in its lido on the banks of the Danube, located just outside the old city walls.

For a cultural experience, visitors should head to Melk’s Museum Burgmuseum. Located in a castle right above the Danube, this museum showcases artifacts from the city's past including artifacts from the local population as well as Roman findings from nearby ruins. There’s also an authentic alpine kitchen where visitors can enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine such as ‘Kaiserschmarrn’ (soufflé-like pancakes) and ‘Apfelstrudel’ (apple strudel).

Visiting Melk is an experience like no other with its unique atmosphere and traditional charm. Whether you’re looking for stunning views, cultural attractions, or outdoor activities, this alpine getaway has something for everyone. Be sure to soak up the unbelievable beauty of nature while exploring this spectacular corner of Austria.

Linz

Linz is the third-largest city of Austria and capital of the state of Upper Austria (German: Oberösterreich). It is located in the north centre of Austria, approximately 30 kilometres south of the Czech border, on both sides of the River Danube. The population of the city is 200,839, and that of the Greater Linz conurbation is about 271,000. In 2009 Linz, together with the Lithuanian capital Vilnius, was chosen as the European Capital of Culture. Since 1 December 2014 Linz is a member of the UNESCO Creative Cities (UCCN) network as a City of Media Arts.

Linz is well known for its vibrant cultural scene and hosts a large number of events throughout the year, including the Linz Festival, Ars Electronica and Pflasterspektakel. The city also has a number of museums and galleries, including the Museum of Upper Austria, Linz Museum and Lentos Art Museum.

If you're looking for a city that has a little bit of everything, then Linz is definitely worth a visit. Whether you're interested in culture, history, art or just wanting to experience a new place, Linz has something for everyone.

Passau

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.