Durnstein Austria, situated on the banks of the Danube River. It is known for its picturesque architecture, beautiful vineyards, and scenic location in the Wachau region. Here is some travel information to help you plan your trip to Dürnstein:
How to get there
The nearest airport to Dürnstein is Vienna International Airport (VIE), which is about 90 kilometers away. From there, you can take a train to Krems an der Donau and then a bus or a taxi to Dürnstein. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to Dürnstein from Vienna, which takes around 1.5 hours.
Best time to visit Durnstein Austria
The best time to visit Dürnstein is during the spring and summer months (April to September), when the weather is mild and the vineyards are in full bloom. The town can be quite crowded during peak season, so consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (March, October, and November) if you prefer a quieter experience.
Things to do
There are plenty of things to do in Dürnstein, including exploring the historic castle ruins, visiting the local wineries and wine taverns, hiking or cycling through the surrounding countryside, and taking a boat trip along the Danube River. The town is also known for its beautiful baroque architecture, so be sure to take a stroll through the old town and visit the Parish Church of St. Laurenz.
Where to stay
There are several accommodation options in Dürnstein, including guesthouses, hotels, and apartments. Some popular choices include the Hotel Schloss Dürnstein, which is housed in a historic castle, and the Gartenhotel & Weingut Pfeffel Dürnstein, which offers beautiful views of the vineyards.
Food and drink
Dürnstein is located in the heart of the Wachau wine region, which is known for its high-quality white wines. Be sure to try some of the local Grüner Veltliner or Riesling wines, and visit one of the local wine taverns (Heuriger) to taste some traditional Austrian cuisine. Popular dishes include Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz (boiled beef), and Kaiserschmarrn (a sweet dessert made with shredded pancakes).
Durnstein history
In the early Middle Ages, Dürnstein was a center of trade and commerce, as well as a site of Christian worship. In the 11th century, the town became the property of the Kuenring family, who built a castle on the hill above the town. The castle was later expanded and became an important stronghold in the region.
In 1192, Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was returning from the Crusades when he was captured near Vienna by Leopold V, Duke of Austria. Richard was held prisoner in the castle in Dürnstein until his ransom was paid by his subjects in England.
During the 16th century, Dürnstein became a center of Protestantism in the region, and the town was heavily damaged during the Thirty Years’ War in the 17th century. In the 18th and 19th centuries, Dürnstein became a popular tourist destination, and many of the town’s historic buildings were restored and renovated.
Today, Dürnstein is known for its picturesque architecture, beautiful vineyards, and scenic location on the banks of the Danube River. It is a popular destination for tourists who are interested in history, culture, and outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling.
