Vienna to Melk and Mauthausen: Private day trip

Explore Melk’s stunning abbey and sample local wines, all in the reflection of the graceful Danube.

Visit Melk’s famous Benedictine abbey, resting atop a hill. Stroll through the golden halls, ornate library, and baroque church before taking in views of the Danube from the abbey’s terraced gardens. Then, consider a trip to the Old Bread Store (Alter Brotladen) for locally baked goodies. Or, stroll along the river and take photos of the grand abbey from below, marveling in its quiet elegance. Be sure to try wines from the surrounding Wachau Valley and sample apricot dumplings for locally beloved flavor. Winter travelers will also be greeted by the city’s remarkable Christmas Market.

Learn more about World War II and remember the victims of the Mauthausen camp at this memorial.

Visit the Mauthausen Memorial and museum to learn more about the realities of World War II and the Mauthausen concentration camp. The museum was curated in 1970 by a survivor of the camp, Hans Marsalek, for historical education. Solemn memorial rooms such as the “Room of Names” honor those who suffered in the camp. A memorial sarcophagus was erected as the center of the park, and inscribed: “May the living learn from the fate of the dead.” Guests can access the memorial for free without a ticket, and should verify the opening hours in advance: https://www.mauthausen-memorial.org/en/Visit/Visitor-Information/Opening-times-and-prices