Lower Austria

Lower Austria charms with vineyards nestled along the Danube valley, paired with great music festivals in castles perched it the countryside - it's a perfect getaway for music lovers and oenophiles.

As the name implies, Lower Austria is less mountainous than western Austria; its charms come in the form of fertile valleys and plains, which make it a perfect getaway for those seeking a more authentic, rustic feel. The stretch of the Danube River Valley between Melk and Krems (called Wachau) has glorious wines and lots of formidable castles, abbeys, and Medieval villages. Check out the walled town of Drosendorf and the beautiful Baroque abbey in Melk.

But don't let this tranquil atmosphere fool you. Authentic and cozy inns await you as well as unexpected and sophisticated restaurants. Nikolaihof vineyard is one of the oldest wine makers in Austria and an absolute culinary highlight in Lower Austria. It is situated right on the Danube in the iconic Wachau region, which means gorgeous views over the river and surrounding hills. You can even stay over night at the vineyard's own guest house. While in Lower Austria visit it's capital St. Poelten: Austria's oldest documented city.