Things To Do
in Krems an der Donau

Krems an der Donau is a charming town located in the Wachau Valley, known for its picturesque landscapes along the Danube River. The town is characterized by its rich history, with medieval architecture and vibrant vineyards surrounding it. Famous for its white wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner, Krems offers a delightful blend of culture, nature, and gastronomy.

Visitors can explore its historic old town, enjoy riverside promenades, and take advantage of numerous outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Krems
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the historic old town, visiting the Kunsthalle Krems art museum and enjoying breakfast at a local cafe.

afternoon
:

Take a guided tour of the Winzer Krems winery and enjoy a wine tasting session, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in local cuisine.

evening
:

Enjoy a leisurely dinner at a riverside restaurant and take a sunset walk along the Danube promenade.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the St. Paul’s Abbey for a morning tour and enjoy the serene environment of this historical site.

afternoon
:

Hike up to the nearby vineyards for breathtaking views and a picnic lunch surrounded by nature.

evening
:

Attend a local concert or cultural event at the Stadttheater Krems, followed by dinner at a traditional Austrian tavern.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant$15-25
Coffee$3-5
🍷Glass of local wine$5-10
🚍Public transport ticket$2-4
🏨Hotel night$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery with vineyards and the Danube River.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Delicious local cuisine and wines.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport may not be as frequent.
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers.
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good Morning
  • "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like...
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Krems an der Donau

Visit one of these nice places.

Danube Promenade

A beautiful riverside walkway with stunning views of the Danube and the surrounding vineyards, perfect for sunset photography.

Old Town Square

Captures the essence of Krems with its historical buildings and vibrant atmosphere.

St. Paul's Abbey

An architectural marvel surrounded by nature, providing picturesque backdrops for photos.

Culinary Guide

Food in Krems an der Donau

Krems an der Donau is a culinary delight, known for its local wines and traditional Austrian dishes that reflect the region's rich agricultural heritage.

Krems an der Donau Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Wachauer Marillenknödel

Sweet dumplings filled with apricots, a specialty of the Wachau region.

Must-Try!

Heurigenplatte

A platter featuring local cheeses, cold cuts, and a selection of wines, perfect for tasting regional flavors.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Krems Wochenmarkt

A weekly market held in the town square, offering fresh produce, local meats, and artisanal foods.

Climate Guide

Weather

Krems experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, averaging 0°C to 5°C (32°F to 41°F), while summers (June to August) are warm, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Spring (March to May) is mild and pleasant with blooming flowers, and autumn (September to November) showcases beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and eye contact are common when meeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and keep your hands on the table but not elbows.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Austrian culture, whether for meetings or social gatherings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Krems is generally a safe town with low crime rates. It is advisable to take standard precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings in crowded places. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Krems an der Donau

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller vendors and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and vineyard visits.

Summer

Warm weather and longer days are perfect for river cruises, hiking, and enjoying outdoor dining.

Autumn

A beautiful time to visit as the leaves change colors; grape harvest season is in full swing with many wine festivals.

Winter

Cold weather may limit outdoor activities, but the festive atmosphere with Christmas markets is enchanting.

Nightlife Guide

Krems an der Donau at Night

Krems has a relaxed nightlife scene, primarily centered around wine bars and casual pubs. Many places offer live music, particularly during the summer months. While not as bustling as larger cities, the atmosphere is friendly and inviting, perfect for enjoying local wines and meeting fellow travelers.

Hiking in Krems an der Donau

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Schönbühl Trail

A scenic hike that offers panoramic views of Krems and the surrounding vineyards, suitable for moderate hikers.

Wachau World Heritage Trail

A longer trail that stretches through the Wachau Valley, providing opportunities to explore charming villages and vineyards.

Airports

How to reach Krems an der Donau by plane.

Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Approximately 90 km away, this is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Krems is a highly walkable town, with pedestrian-friendly streets, especially in the old town area. Most attractions are within easy walking distance, making it convenient for visitors to explore on foot without the need for a car.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Students

Krems has a significant student population due to its universities and educational institutions.

Wine Enthusiasts

Many visitors are attracted to Krems for its wineries and vineyards, contributing to a vibrant tourism sector.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A widely popular sport in Austria, with local clubs and matches drawing enthusiastic crowds.

Cycling

With numerous trails and paths, cycling is a favorite pastime, especially along the Danube.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Krems is generally manageable, with peak hours typically around morning and evening commutes. Public transportation includes buses that connect the town with nearby areas. Biking is also popular, with dedicated lanes and paths available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Krems an der Donau.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's best to check menus in advance.

Gluten-Free Options

While options may be limited, some eateries are accommodating and offer gluten-free alternatives.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare services in Krems are accessible, with a hospital and several clinics available for local and visiting patients. Emergency services can be contacted via 112, and most medical staff speak English, providing assistance to tourists as needed.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide