Things to do in Melk

No. 3 of Fall Viewing Attractions in Austria

Wachau Cultural Landscape

Wachau Cultural Landscape is a section of the Danube River valley stretching approx. 30 km between Melk and Krems, preserving traces of human settlement and cultivation since prehistoric times. Thanks to its beautiful scenery, it has become a popular tourist destination. The terraced vineyards and apricot orchards lining both banks continue a cultivation tradition that has lasted for thousands of years. Taking a cruise downstream from Melk to Krems is a classic way to explore this valley, where ancient towns, monasteries, castle ruins, and vineyards unfold slowly along the river. Those who prefer a slower pace can also cycle or hike along the river.Enjoying the beautiful scenery while tasting local white wine is a delightful experience.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Lower Austria

Melk Abbey

Melk Abbeyis perched on a rocky outcrop near the town of Melk in Lower Austria, Austria, overlooking the Danube River and adjacent to the Wachau Cultural Landscape. This Benedictine abbey has existed since the 11th century. In the early 18th century, it was rebuilt into the current Baroque complex by architect Jakob Prandtauer, and its golden and ivory facade and dome have become a prominent landmark in the valley. Monks still live and practice here today, and the affiliated monastic school continues its centuries-old educational tradition, making the entire complex not just a historical site, but a living abbey.

No. 2 of Ski Resorts in Lower Austria

Skilift Jauerling

Located in the Korneuburg District of Lower Austria, Austria, this is a winter sports venue suitable for all types of ski enthusiasts. The 500 m long ski slope is designed to cater to the needs of both beginners and intermediate skiers, providing an ideal environment for practice and challenges. The ski resort's facilities are simple and practical, aiming to provide skiers and snowboarders with hours of skiing fun. In addition to skiing, the surrounding area offers other winter activities, such as hiking and snowshoeing, where visitors can enjoy peaceful moments in the natural environment. Traditional wooden chalets provide a warm resting place for visitors, serving hot drinks and light meals, adding to the comfort of the ski experience. With its friendly atmosphere, it is an ideal choice for short vacations and family trips.

Melk

Melk is a small town in Lower Austria, Austria, situated on the banks of the Danube River and adjacent to the picturesque Wachau Cultural Landscape, Melk's Melk Abbey is renowned. It was founded in 1089 and is a Benedictine abbey. The abbey's Baroque architecture was built between 1702–1736 and is considered a masterpiece of Baroque design. Its interior is exquisitely decorated with vivid frescoes, and the library houses countless medieval manuscripts, attracting numerous tourists and scholars for visits and research. Perched on a hilltop overlooking the Danube River, the abbey is visible from afar and has become a magnificent landmark in the region. The town retains many quaint buildings, such as the 15th-century parish church and the Renaissance-style post office. Strolling through the town's streets feels like traveling back in time, allowing you to experience a rich historical atmosphere. Whether you are admiring the abbey's artistic treasures or experiencing the town's tranquility and charm, Melk leaves a lasting impression and is one of the must-visit destinations in Austria.

Schallaburg Castle

Aggstein Castle

This is a historic castle ruin situated on a hill, featuring restaurants, rooms, wooden stairs, terraces, and more. Standing on the terrace, you can overlook the magnificent scenery of the Danube River and the surrounding valleys.

Family Park Wachau, amusement park Hubhof

No. 1 of Best Things to Do in Austria

Kunsthistorisches Museum

The Kunsthistorisches Museum was commissioned by Emperor Franz Joseph specifically to house the art collections accumulated by the Habsburg dynasty over the centuries. Designed by architects Gottfried Semper and Karl von Hasenauer, it officially opened in 1891. The museum building itself is a work of art, with its Renaissance-style facade, towering octagonal dome, and marble-decorated interiors complementing one another; the grand staircase leading to the upper floor features murals painted by Klimt and others, and the hall beneath the dome is equally worth pausing to admire. The collection is mainly divided into the Picture Gallery, the Egyptian and Near Eastern Collection, the Collection of Greek and Roman Antiquities, the Coin Collection, and the Kunstkammer. The Picture Gallery is the highlight of the entire museum, with the paintings of Pieter Bruegel the Elder being particularly precious—the museum holds over ten of his oil paintings, including masterpieces such as "The Tower of Babel," "The Hunters in the Snow," and "The Peasant Wedding," a concentration of works rarely seen among museums worldwide. In addition, Raphael's "Madonna of the Meadow," Caravaggio's "The Crowning with Thorns," Vermeer's "The Art of Painting," Velázquez's portraits of the Spanish royal family, and Arcimboldo's "Four Seasons" series are all displayed here. The Kunstkammer houses the golden salt cellar crafted by Cellini, regarded as a representative masterpiece of Renaissance goldsmithing. The entire museum is worth spending the better part of a day savoring in detail, and ample time should be set aside especially for the Picture Gallery and the Bruegel room.

No. 2 of Best Things to Do in Austria

Belvedere Palace

• Belvedere Palace is a Baroque architectural style palace located in the center of Vienna. Together with Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn Palace, it is known as the three major palaces in Vienna. • In addition to appreciating the master's paintings, the building itself, inner hall design, sculptures, gardens, etc. adopt the Baroque style, which is worth seeing. • Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Baroque architecture and admire famous works such as Jacques-Louis David's famous portrait of Napoleon. △ The palace is located in the center of beautifully landscaped gardens, with tiered fountains and statues nestled among greenery. The Belvedere Palace was once the palace of Prince Eugen of the Habsburg Dynasty and is now the home of the Austrian National Gallery. △ The Belvedere Palace at sunset, the beautiful scenery makes you even more lingering

Artstetten Castle

Artstetten Castle is home to the Artstetten Castle and is dedicated to the life and work of Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria-Este. The exhibition provides insights into his biography, family, and various stages of his life. Topics also include the history of the House of Habsburg and the time when Franz Ferdinand lived as a member of the Austrian imperial family. Visitors can view historical documents, personal items, photographs, and other exhibits connected to him and his surroundings. Part of the exhibition focuses on his marriage to Sophie Chotek and the family relationships of that era. The museum is also linked to the history of Artstetten Castle and its use as a memorial site. Depending on the exhibition and event, different areas of the museum may be accessible. The visit can be combined with a tour of the castle complex and its surroundings.