Romantic Advent on the Danube

Due to its special geographical location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in Germany. But not only the location of the city on the three rivers is exceptional, Passau also offers its visitors numerous remarkable sights. Towering above the city is the Veste Oberhaus, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century. The old town of Passau is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, especially the Cathedral of St. Stephen with its characteristic onion domes and the largest cathedral organ in the world with almost 18,000 pipes..

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.

Melk has acquired a beautiful name: the gateway to the Wachau. Anyone approaching the historic town on the Danube will discover Melk Abbey perched high above the river very early on. The abbey is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and worth a visit in all seasons. The impressive Baroque ensemble has been cared for by the monks of the Benedictine order since the year 1089. Culture, faith and science are united in the magnificent rooms of the monastery.

Melk is an Austrian town situated on the River Danube. Located west of Vienna, the town is mostly famous for its 11th Century Melk Abbey, a magnificent monastery built high above the town. Melk Abbey is the largest example of Baroque architecture in the Wachau Valley, with the valley itself awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2000. Its steep terraced vineyards mean vinters cultivate with traditional manual practices and the springtime sees this unique landscape covered in apricot tree blossoms. Strolling around the streets of Melk Old Town, visitors will find the Town Hall Square, the Main Square, the old Post Office, now a local museum, Old Abbey Tavern, and Kremser Strasse. River cruises, self-guided walking tours and cycle tours are also extremely popular around Melk, as the Wachau Valley offers unique landscape to be explored and enjoyed. Art festivals and Baroque music is celebrated each year with the Melk Baroque Days, an international festival.

Krems is considered one of the oldest towns in Austria: it was first mentioned as Chremisa as early as 995, and the town charter for Krems and Stein is documented for the year 1305. This centuries-long history, which has always been closely interwoven with the Danube, is reflected in the old towns, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Wachau since 2000. There is much to discover on a walk through Krems and Stein: be it the many churches from different eras or the narrow, cobbled streets and picturesque squares with their historic buildings, statues and small monuments - those who walk through Krems and Stein with open eyes will be richly rewarded! If the Wachau weather is not in such a good mood, the museums of the Art Mile Krems offer a varied program for young and old.

Krems an der Donau is a city in Northeast Austria located approximately forty three miles from Vienna. The city is situated on the banks of the river Danube and is one of the oldest of the Wachau Valley. Krems prides itself on historical preservation and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The history of the city dates back more than a thousand years with evidence found in its streets, squares, monasteries, churches and fortifications. Krems is also a modern city which celebrates its contemporary art and modern literature as well as being a leader in biotech application research. Exploring Krems is easily done on foot with city walking tours being very popular. Discover Old Krems and the Art Mile and learn about the city’s rich history at Museum Krems. As with many wine cities, food and drink is in abundance with popular restaurants and wine bars housed in historical buildings which enhance and deepen the dining and wine tasting experience.

Linz is the capital of the province of Upper Austria. Around around the central main square invite churches, pretty facades and charming stores invite you to a stroll through the old town. Who once here, should definitely stop at one of the cozy Kaffeehäuser and enjoy the world-famous Linzer Tortesince it tastes best in its homeland. A dreamhaftes panorama is offered by the Pörstlingberg, which can be reached on foot or convenient to reach by mountain railroad. From the viewplatform and the baroque pilgrimage church is recommended Detour to the Grottenbahn, an enchanting fairy-tale world that not only brings children's eyes to shine.

Linz is a city in northern Austria located on both banks of the Danube River and is a short distance from Salzburg and Vienna. Linz has been awarded UNESCO City of Media Arts status and prides itself on offering a broad spectrum of events, activities and cultural institutions. Enjoy popular open air concert such as Klassik am Dom and extravagant street performances, which attract large crowds and popular international artists. Art galleries and centres are in abundance around the city as well as many museums housing international collections and depictions of the history and heritage of Linz. The architecture of the city also plays an important role in Linz’s cultural heritage with Main Square, Old Town and Mariendom Cathedral being some key attractions. Families will enjoy a trip to Postlingberg, located high up in the mountains and featuring a zoo, the Grottenbahn and spectacular views of the river and city below.

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.