Imagine cruising along the Danube, surrounded by vineyards, medieval castles, and charming villages—without the hassle of planning, yet fully immersed in the scenic beauty of Austria’s Wachau Valley. This river cruise from Krems offers a relaxing way to explore one of Austria’s most picturesque landscapes, paired with a delicious regional meal. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Austria for the first time, this experience promises a blend of stunning sights, cultural charm, and good food—all for a reasonable price.
What makes it really special? First, the spectacular views of the Wachau Valley—a UNESCO World Heritage site—are breathtaking. Second, you’ll get to enjoy a warm, three-course meal made from local ingredients on board, which adds a culinary dimension to the cruise. Third, the vivid, renovated ships create a bright, comfortable atmosphere to relax in, whether on the sun deck or inside the lounge.
One thing to consider is that seats on the upper deck tend to fill up quickly, especially if you want that prime outdoor view after your meal. Planning early or arriving promptly is the best way to secure your spot outside. This cruise suits those who love scenic journeys, good food, and a laid-back atmosphere—perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a taste of Austria’s lovely countryside without too much effort.
Good To Know
- Stunning scenery: Cruise along the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley with views of castles, villages, and vineyards.
- Regional cuisine: Enjoy a seasonal, three-course meal made from local produce served right on the boat.
- Relaxed atmosphere: Newly renovated ships with comfortable lounges and ample sun decks for unwinding.
- Wine tasting: One glass of Wachau wine included, with additional drinks available for purchase.
- Flexible options: The tour lasts around five hours, with multiple departure times.
- Family friendly: Children under 10 cruise free, with special menus and drinks for those aged 10-15.
The Itinerary – What You Can Expect
This five-hour round-trip cruise begins at Krems, a charming town on the Danube, and takes you upstream to Melk before turning back. The route covers 36 kilometers of stunning river scenery, declared a UNESCO World Heritage site for its uniqueness and beauty.
Find more activities and experiences we've covered in Melk.
Departure and Boarding
You’ll start at the tour operator’s ticket office at Welterbe Platz 1, Krems. Arriving early is a smart move, especially if you want prime upper deck seats to enjoy unobstructed views. Once on board, you’ll notice the ship’s bright, welcoming interior, created with traditional materials that give it a cozy yet modern feel.
The Cruise and Views
As the boat sets sail, you’ll pass iconic sights like Melk Abbey, towering above the river with its impressive baroque architecture. The ship glides past Schönbühel Palace, a historic structure perched along the riverbank, and the quaint town of Dürnstein with its famous blue church tower.
The sights aren’t just visual; many guests mention how the experience of watching the landscape drift by is calming and captivating. The upper sun deck is perfect for snapping photos or just soaking in the scenery while enjoying the fresh air. One reviewer noted, “Seats on the upper deck are taken up quickly, so if you want to sit outside after you eat, be vigilant.”
The Meal Experience
The highlight for many is the seasonal three-course meal served on board. Made from regional ingredients, it typically includes a starter, a main dish, and a dessert. While some reviews mention the meal’s quality as excellent, others suggest that the menu can be limited and not very customizable. Still, the presentation and flavors are generally well-received, and the experience of dining while floating through vineyards and castles adds a special touch.
A notable quote from a traveler: “The meal was excellent, and the service staff very polite and accommodating.” The onboard restaurant is bright and cozy, giving you a comfortable setting to enjoy your food with views all around.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyWine and Drinks
Included in the ticket is one glass of Wachau wine, a region known for its crisp, aromatic whites. Many guests appreciate this gesture, making the experience feel more authentic. Additional drinks are available for purchase, so if you’re a wine lover, you might want to bring extra euros for a few tastings.
Returning to Krems
After sightseeing, dining, and relaxing, the cruise returns to Krems around the five-hour mark. The journey ends back at the starting point, leaving you with plenty of time to explore Krems itself or continue your Austrian adventure.
What Travelers Say
Based on hundreds of reviews, this cruise consistently receives high marks for its stunning vistas and value. Visitors raved about the friendly staff, who often went out of their way to make the experience memorable. One reviewer shared, “The captain even took a photo with my young son, which was a lovely personal touch.”
The quality of the food gets mixed reviews—many find it enjoyable and well-prepared, though some wish for more variety or specific dietary options. Still, most agree that the overall experience outweighs minor menu limitations.
Several guests appreciate the flexibility of the booking process, especially the option to reserve now and pay later, and the worry-free cancellation policy. Families find the cruise particularly accommodating, with children under 10 cruising for free and a child-friendly menu for those aged 10-15.
Why It’s Worth It
This Wachau Valley river cruise offers excellent value, especially considering the scenic beauty, cultural richness, and regional cuisine bundled into one experience. For around $76 per person, you get five hours of relaxing sightseeing, a delicious meal, and a glass of local wine—which is quite reasonable compared to similar tours elsewhere.
The combination of stunning landscape, warm hospitality, and the chance to enjoy regional wines makes this a memorable outing. It’s a perfect choice if you enjoy a leisurely pace, beautiful scenery, and authentic cultural touches.
Who Will Love This Tour
- Travelers seeking a laid-back, scenic experience with minimal effort.
- Food lovers wanting to sample regional cuisine with stunning views.
- Wine enthusiasts eager to taste Wachau wines in a picturesque setting.
- Families with children under 10, who can cruise for free.
- Visitors with limited time but wanting a comprehensive taste of Wachau’s highlights.
- Those who appreciate friendly, knowledgeable guides and well-maintained ships.
The Sum Up
This Krems Wachau Valley River Cruise with a 3-course meal combines scenic beauty, regional cuisine, and a relaxed atmosphere into a package that’s hard to beat. Its panoramic views of castles, vineyards, and historic towns make it a picture-perfect way to experience Austria’s Wachau region without any fuss. The inclusion of regional wine, combined with comfortable ships and friendly staff, adds to the overall charm.
It’s well suited for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and leisure, especially if they appreciate good food and wine. While the menu might not be highly customizable, the overall experience delivers a genuine sense of Austria’s rural elegance and cultural richness—all at a reasonable price.
If you’re after a relaxing, picturesque, and tasty day on the Danube, this cruise ticks all the boxes.
FAQ
Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, children under 10 cruise free, and those aged 10-15 have a child-friendly menu and drinks available.
How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts approximately five hours, including the cruise, meal, and sightseeing.
Where do I meet for the cruise?
The starting point is the ticket office at Welterbe Platz 1, Krems.
Are there different departure times?
Yes, check availability as the cruise runs multiple times a day. It’s best to reserve early to secure your preferred slot.
Is the cruise wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the activity states that it is wheelchair accessible.
What is included in the price?
Your ticket includes the 5-hour round-trip cruise, a seasonal 3-course meal, and one glass of Wachau wine.
Can I buy additional drinks on board?
Yes, extra drinks are available at the bar for purchase.
What is the quality of the food?
Most reviews describe the meal as excellent, though menus are seasonal and limited in options.
What should I wear?
Casual, weather-appropriate clothing is fine. Bringing layers is advisable as it can be cooler on the deck.
Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your planning.
This river cruise blends the best of Austria’s scenic beauty, regional flavors, and relaxed cruising. Whether you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or family, it’s a wonderful way to enjoy the Wachau Valley’s charm without the hassle.
You can check if your dates are available here: