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Austria
Lower Austria
Waldviertel
Bezirk Krems

Spitz

Attractions and Places To See around Spitz - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Spitz include historical landmarks, natural features, and cultural sites within Austria's Wachau Valley. This picturesque town is nestled along the Danube River, surrounded by terraced vineyards. As part of the UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape, Spitz offers a blend of history and scenic beauty. The region is renowned for its wine production and provides numerous opportunities for outdoor activities.

Best attractions and places to see around Spitz

  • The most popular attractions is Spitz on the Danube, a settlement that is one of the most picturesque villages in the Wachau, surrounded by terraced vineyards and the Danube. Its narrow streets and old Renaissance and Baroque houses offer a journey back to the Middle Ages.
  • Another must-see spot is Spitz–Arnsdorf Cable Ferry, a historic cable ferry. This ferry connects Spitz with Arnsdorf across the Danube, offering a traditional and environmentally friendly way to cross. Visitors can enjoy magnificent views of the Wachau landscape and vineyards during the 5–10 minute crossing.
  • Visitors also love Wachau Vineyards Route, a cycle way that leads directly through the terraced vineyards of the Wachau. This route offers very beautiful scenery and perspectives, making it a great option for a relaxed bike ride.
  • Spitz is known for historical sites, scenic viewpoints, and cycling routes. The area offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, from ancient ruins to river crossings and vineyard trails.
  • The attractions around Spitz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1300 upvotes and over 130 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

Spitz on the Danube

Highlight • Settlement

Spitz an der Donau is one of the most picturesque villages in the Wachau and an absolute must-see for every visitor to the region. It lies directly on the Danube and is surrounded by terraced vineyards. A worthwhile destination for a tour. You can easily linger here for a while; there's plenty to discover! A very beautiful, tranquil town with several sights.

The narrow streets and old Renaissance and Baroque houses take you back to the Middle Ages. The picturesque Town Hall Square is a central meeting place with charming restaurants and shops. The Hinterhaus Castle ruins, a medieval castle ruin, tower above the town and offer spectacular views of the Wachau.

Spitz is idyllically situated between the Danube and the famous Wachau vineyards, offering one of the region's most beautiful backdrops. The town is a perfect destination or stopover for a bike tour. The town combines nature, history, and enjoyment in a unique way.

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Wachau Vineyards Route

Highlight • Cycleway

The route, with moderate climbs, leads directly through the vineyards. The Danube flows some distance from the cycle path in this section, a little further down in the valley. A magnificent sight, with very, very beautiful scenery. 👌

For me, one of the most beautiful, if not the most beautiful, sections of this route through the Wachau. 🚴🏻‍♂️👌 A region with a rich and fascinating history. Simply a great tour, a relaxed bike ride while taking in the beautiful views and amazing perspectives. Highly recommended!

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Dürnstein Castle Ruins

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The castle ruins were built above the town of the same name in Dürnstein in the 12th century. The castle is known thanks to a famous prisoner: The English King Richard the Lionheart was held here from December 1192 to March 1193 after the return of his third crusade and then passed on to the German Emperor Heinrich VI. delivered. A themed trail runs around the castle ruins that tells you more about the history.

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Dürnstein Old Town

Highlight • Historical Site

From Dürnstein-Oberloiben, a bus departs hourly for Krems/Melk. Dürnstein, a picturesque village in the Wachau region, is rich in history and charm. Founded in the 11th century by the Kuenring family, Dürnstein achieved considerable wealth and development in the 13th and 14th centuries through the ransom paid for the captured English King Richard the Lionheart.

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Spitz–Arnsdorf Cable Ferry

Highlight • Bridge

The crossing is always a welcome change of pace and a memorable experience. Beautiful views of the Danube are an added bonus! The cable ferry in Spitz on the Danube is a historic and fascinating mode of transport, part of the unique cultural heritage of the Wachau region. It connects Spitz with the opposite town of Arnsdorf and offers a traditional and environmentally friendly way to cross the Danube. Cable ferries have existed for centuries and were once an important link before bridges spanned the Danube. The ferry in Spitz is still in operation today to preserve the tradition and charm of the Wachau. In addition to its practical use, the cable ferry now also serves as a tourist attraction, offering a glimpse into the past. The crossing takes about 5–10 minutes and offers magnificent views of the Wachau landscape, characterized by vineyards and historic sites. The journey is smooth and allows you to experience the Danube up close. From the ferry, you have a fantastic view of the picturesque village of Spitz with its famous vineyards and historic buildings.

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Popular around Spitz

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North-South Trail through Austria – Small country, big paths!

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October 5, 2025, Wachau Vineyards Route

The Wachau vineyards near Weißenkirchen extend above the Danube and characterize the landscape along the Danube Cycle Path. From here, sweeping views of the terraced vineyards and the surrounding hills open up. The route is mostly flat and well-maintained, allowing cyclists to easily explore the wine-growing landscape. Wineries along the way invite you to sample the wines, and the combination of nature, culture, and viticulture makes the tour particularly attractive for cyclists.

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The cycling tour from Weißenkirchen to Dürnstein leads through the picturesque vineyards of the Wachau region, offering magnificent views of the Danube and the terraced vineyards. Along the way, you pass charming wine villages, small cellar lanes, and numerous wineries that invite you to take a short break or enjoy a wine tasting. The route perfectly combines nature, culture, and culinary delights, showcasing the historic landscape with its baroque churches, castle ruins, and verdant hills in all its diversity.

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Donauradweg

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As one of four roll-on ferries in Austria, it cruises between Spitz and Arnsdorf.

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The view from Dürnstein Castle is breathtakingly beautiful!

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Along the vineyards, a beautiful panorama

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical landmarks can I explore in Spitz?

Spitz offers a rich history with several notable landmarks. You can visit the impressive Ruine Hinterhaus, a medieval castle ruin offering spectacular panoramic views of the Wachau Valley. Stroll through the Old Town of Spitz with its Renaissance and Baroque houses, or see the unique Parish Church of Spitz with its off-axis chancel. The Red Gate, a ruin from the Thirty Years' War, also tells a compelling historical tale.

Where can I find the best panoramic views around Spitz?

For breathtaking views, climb up to the Ruine Hinterhaus, which offers expansive vistas of the Danube and vineyards. Another excellent spot is the Dürnstein Castle Ruins, providing stunning perspectives of the Wachau. The Tausendeimerberg vineyard is also renowned for its epic views of the Danube and surrounding landscape.

What outdoor activities can I do near Spitz?

Spitz is an excellent base for outdoor activities. You can enjoy various hikes, including sections of the Welterbesteig, or explore routes like the 'Red Gate Circular Trail' and 'View of Wachau Vineyards – Tausendeimerberg loop'. For cycling enthusiasts, the flat Danube Cycle Path and the scenic Wachau Vineyards Route are perfect for exploring the region. Find more routes at Hiking around Spitz and Cycling around Spitz.

Are there any unique cultural experiences related to wine in Spitz?

Absolutely! As a key part of the Wachau wine region, Spitz offers numerous opportunities for wine tastings at local vineyards. You can also visit traditional family-run wine taverns known as 'Heurigen' to sample local wines, particularly the famous Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. The town is especially vibrant during the Spitzer Weinherbst in autumn.

What natural features define the landscape around Spitz?

The landscape around Spitz is characterized by the majestic Danube River, which is central to the town's charm. The area is also famous for its terraced Wachau vineyards and hills, including the high-yielding Tausendeimerberg. The Spitzer Graben, a narrow valley with steep slate slopes, is another unique natural feature contributing to the region's distinct wine character.

Are there family-friendly attractions or activities in Spitz?

Yes, Spitz offers several family-friendly options. The Spitz–Arnsdorf Cable Ferry provides a unique and traditional way to cross the Danube, which is often a hit with children. The Danube Cycle Path and many walking routes, such as the 'View of Wachau Vineyards – Tausendeimerberg loop', are suitable for families. Exploring the Old Town of Spitz is also a pleasant activity for all ages.

What is the best time to visit Spitz for outdoor activities?

The Wachau region, including Spitz, is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn. Spring offers blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures for hiking and cycling. Autumn is ideal for experiencing the grape harvest, wine festivals, and the vibrant colors of the vineyards, making it a popular time for outdoor activities and wine-related events.

Can I visit museums in Spitz?

Yes, Spitz is home to the Schifffahrtsmuseum (Museum of Naval Transport), housed in the Baroque Schloss Erlahof. This museum provides insights into the historical importance of the Danube as a waterway and its role in the region's development.

What is the significance of the Spitz–Arnsdorf Cable Ferry?

The Spitz–Arnsdorf Cable Ferry is a historic and environmentally friendly mode of transport, connecting Spitz with Arnsdorf across the Danube. It's one of the last cable ferries in operation, offering a glimpse into traditional river crossings and providing magnificent views of the Wachau landscape and vineyards during the 5–10 minute journey.

What do visitors enjoy most about Spitz?

Visitors frequently praise Spitz for its picturesque setting, combining historical charm with stunning natural beauty. The tranquil atmosphere of the Old Town, the panoramic views from the Hinterhaus Castle Ruins, and the opportunities for relaxed bike rides along the Wachau Vineyards Route are often highlighted. The local wines and the unique experience of the cable ferry are also very popular.

Are there any challenging hiking trails near Spitz?

Yes, for those seeking more challenging hikes, there are several options. Routes like 'Carl's Cross – View from Steirer Höh loop' and 'Fahnenwand – Hirschwandsteig Rocky Outcrop loop' offer more demanding terrain and rewarding views. You can find more details on these and other routes at Hiking around Spitz and Mountain Hikes around Spitz.

Can I find dog-friendly attractions or trails in Spitz?

While specific dog-friendly attractions are not detailed, the numerous hiking and walking trails around Spitz, including those through the vineyards and along the Danube, are generally suitable for dogs on a leash. Many outdoor cafes and Heurigen in the region also welcome well-behaved dogs in their outdoor seating areas.

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Weißenkirchen in der WachauStratzingRossatz-ArnsdorfRohrendorf bei KremsWeinzierl am WaldeBergern im DunkelsteinerwaldGföhlFurth bei GöttweigPaudorfDroßMautern an der DonauDürnsteinMaria Laach am JauerlingGrafeneggLichtenau im WaldviertelAggsbachGedersdorfLangenloisAlbrechtsberg an der Großen KremsHadersdorf-KammernJaidhofSchönberg am KampStraß im StraßertaleSt. Leonhard am HornerwaldRastenfeldKrumau am KampJauerling-WachauKamptal-Schönberg Nature ParkThurnberger Stausee

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