Perchtoldsdorf Travel Guide

Discover the culturally rich town of Perchtoldsdorf in Lower Austria with this comprehensive travel guide. From museums and historical places to outdoor adventures, local food and drink scene, and transportation options, this guide covers it all.


Introduction to Perchtoldsdorf

Perchtoldsdorf is a charming town located in Lower Austria, only 15 kilometers south of Vienna. Nestled in the Vienna Woods, Perchtoldsdorf is a haven for nature lovers and history buffs alike. The town is steeped in history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age.

List of Places to Visit in Perchtoldsdorf

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Perchtoldsdorf Castle: Dating back to the 13th century, this castle houses a museum with exhibits on the history of Perchtoldsdorf and the surrounding area.
  • Wehrturm (Defense Tower): Once a part of the town’s fortification system, this tower offers panoramic views of the town and the Vienna Woods.
  • St. Augustine’s Church: This Gothic church dates back to the 14th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and frescoes.

Natural Attractions of Perchtoldsdorf: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Vienna Woods: Boasting over 1,000 square kilometers of woodland, the Vienna Woods are perfect for hiking, biking, and walking.
  • Lainzer Tiergarten: This protected reserve is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including wild boar, deer, and foxes. Visitors can hike a variety of trails and enjoy the scenic views.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Perchtoldsdorf

  • Eichkogel Trail: This 3-kilometer trail leads through vineyards and orchards to the summit of Eichkogel Mountain, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  • Wienerwald Panorama Trail: This 120-kilometer trail leads through the Vienna Woods, passing through Perchtoldsdorf and offering breathtaking views of the region.

Best Things to Do in Perchtoldsdorf: Activities and Tours

  • Wine Tasting: Perchtoldsdorf is renowned for its vineyards and wines. Visitors can take a guided tour of local vineyards and sample some of the excellent wines.
  • City Tour: Take a guided tour of the town’s most important attractions, including the castle, the defense tower, and St. Augustine’s Church.

Week-Long Itinerary for Perchtoldsdorf

Day Activity
1 Explore the town center and visit St. Augustine’s Church
2 Take a guided tour of the castle
3 Hike the Eichkogel Trail and enjoy a wine tasting
4 Visit the Wehrturm and take a stroll through the Lainzer Tiergarten
5 Take a day trip to Vienna
6 Cycle along the Wienerwald Panorama Trail
7 Relax and enjoy local cuisine and wine in the town center

Food and Drink Scene of Perchtoldsdorf

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gulaschsuppe: A hearty meat stew served with bread
  • Wiener Schnitzel: A breaded and fried veal cutlet, typically served with a potato salad or fries
  • Tafelspitz: Boiled beef with potatoes and horseradish sauce

Local Beverages

  • Veltliner: A dry white wine made from Grüner Veltliner grapes, which are grown in the surrounding vineyards
  • Zweigelt: A red wine made from Zweigelt grapes, which are also grown in the area

Where to Stay in Perchtoldsdorf: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Vöslauerhof-Familie Binder: This family-run hotel is located in the town center and offers comfortable rooms and excellent breakfasts.
  • Gasthof Keller: This guesthouse is located in the heart of the vineyards and offers a peaceful and authentic experience.
  • Hostel Perchtoldsdorf: This budget-friendly hostel is located on the edge of the Vienna Woods and offers clean and comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Perchtoldsdorf: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Wine: Perchtoldsdorf is renowned for its vineyards and wines. Visitors can buy local wines to bring home.
  • Porcelain: The town is home to a porcelain factory that produces high-quality porcelain pieces.
  • Handicrafts: The town center features several stores selling handmade souvenirs and gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Perchtoldsdorf

Perchtoldsdorf is a town with a rich cultural heritage, and locals are proud of their traditions. One of the most famous traditions is the Perchtoldsdorf “Fasching,” a carnival-like celebration that takes place in February and includes parades and costumes.

Best Time to Visit Perchtoldsdorf

The best time to visit Perchtoldsdorf is in the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is also beautiful in the spring, when the vineyards are in bloom, and in the fall, when the leaves on the trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Perchtoldsdorf

Do:

  • Do take part in local celebrations and festivals
  • Do respect local customs and traditions
  • Do try local cuisine and wines

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment
  • Don’t be loud or disruptive in public places
  • Don’t disrespect religious sites or artifacts

Safety and Health

Safety in Perchtoldsdorf

Perchtoldsdorf is a safe town, with low levels of crime and violence. However, visitors should still take standard precautions, such as keeping valuables in a safe place and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Perchtoldsdorf

Perchtoldsdorf has a modern healthcare system, and visitors can access medical care if needed. However, it is recommended that visitors have health insurance that covers medical expenses.

Getting to Perchtoldsdorf: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Perchtoldsdorf

  • Vienna International Airport: This is the closest airport to Perchtoldsdorf, located approximately 25 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Perchtoldsdorf

  • Perchtoldsdorf Zentrum: This is the main bus station in the town center, with connections to Vienna and other nearby towns.

Other Options

  • Train: The nearest train station is in Mödling, located approximately 5 kilometers from Perchtoldsdorf.
  • Car: Perchtoldsdorf is easily accessible by car, with good road connections to Vienna and other nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Perchtoldsdorf

The best way to get around Perchtoldsdorf is on foot or by bike. The town center is compact and pedestrian-friendly, and there are many bike paths throughout the area. Visitors can also use buses or taxis to get around, although these options can be less convenient.

Where to Go Next from Perchtoldsdorf: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Vienna: The Austrian capital is only 15 kilometers away and is easy to reach by bus or train.
  • Baden: This spa town is located approximately 25 kilometers to the south of Perchtoldsdorf and features thermal baths and beautiful parks.
  • Klosterneuburg: This town is located approximately 30 kilometers to the north of Perchtoldsdorf and is home to a famous abbey and a large winery.

Conclusion

Perchtoldsdorf is a hidden gem in Lower Austria, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in hiking, biking, wine tasting, or exploring historical sites, Perchtoldsdorf has something for everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll be able to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this charming town.

The main square of Perchtoldsdorf with the Wehrturm The main square of Perchtoldsdorf with the Wehrturm