Emmersdorf Travel Guide

Discover the cultural attractions, natural adventures, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more with this comprehensive travel guide to Emmersdorf, Austria.


Introduction to Emmersdorf

Emmersdorf is a stunning small town nestled in the heart of the Wachau region, in Lower Austria, Austria. The town is situated right on the banks of the picturesque Danube River and is surrounded by lush green hills, vineyards, and orchards. Emmersdorf is one of the oldest towns in the region and has a long and rich history, along with many stunning historic buildings and landmarks. This travel guide will provide you with all the necessary information to make the most of your visit to Emmersdorf.

List of Places to Visit in Emmersdorf

Emmersdorf is packed with cultural and natural gems, ensuring there’s something to do for everyone. We have listed the top attractions below, which we highly recommend visiting while in town.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Emmersdorf Castle: Built-in the 12th century, it is one of the oldest buildings in town. The castle offers breathtaking views of the Danube River and the surrounding hills.
  • Parish church of Emmersdorf: Built-in the 14th century, it is an excellent example of Gothic architecture.
  • Museum of Emmersdorf: A fascinating museum showcasing the town’s history and culture through various exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Emmersdorf: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wachau Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, which boasts stunning views of the river, hills, and vineyards.
  • Ruine Aggstein: A medieval castle nestled on the hill above Emmersdorf, it offers a fascinating insight into the town’s history.
  • Danube River: Take scenic boat rides on the magnificent Danube.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Emmersdorf

Emmersdorf is a paradise for hikers and bikers alike. Take a walk along the Danube, bike through the vineyards or trek the hills for magnificent views. Here are some of the popular routes:

  • Wachauradweg: A 300 km long cycling trail along the Danube
  • Emmersdorf-Spitz-Emmersdorf: A picturesque circular walking route through the vineyards and hills
  • Staudingerweg: A family-friendly walking trail along the Danube River

Best Things to Do in Emmersdorf: Activities and Tours

Below are a few activities and tours in Emmersdorf that should not be missed:

  • Wine tasting: Wachau is known for producing some of the best wines in Austria.
  • Boat tour: Take a scenic boat ride down the river Danube and enjoy the breathtaking scenery.
  • Cycling tours: Take part in guided tours through the vineyards and beautiful countryside of Emmersdorf.

Week-Long Itinerary for Emmersdorf

Day 1: Arrive in Emmersdorf, explore the town and visit Emmersdorf Castle.

Day 2: Take a scenic bike ride or walk through the famous Wachau Valley.

Day 3: Visit the Museum of Emmersdorf to learn more about the town’s history and culture.

Day 4: Go wine tasting and sample some of the region’s finest wines.

Day 5: Take a boat ride down the Danube and enjoy the views.

Day 6: Take a guided cycling tour through the vineyards and countryside.

Day 7: Visit Ruine Aggstein and experience the town’s medieval history.

Food and Drink Scene of Emmersdorf

Emmersdorf is known for its delicious food and wine. We have listed the top dishes and beverages below that you should try during your visit.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Wachauer Marille: A type of apricot that is unique to Wachau.
  • Wachau Laberl: A traditional dish made with meat and bread.

Local Beverages

  • Wachau Wine: Wachau produces some of the finest wines in Austria.
  • Most: A popular local cider-like beverage.

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

Emmersdorf offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. Here are some of the top options:

  • Castello - Donauhotel Krems: A modern hotel located on the banks of the Danube River.
  • Gasthof Prankl: A cozy guesthouse located in the heart of Emmersdorf town.
  • Pension Böckl: A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms.

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

Emmersdorf is a great place to shop for souvenirs and local products. We have listed some of the top items below:

  • Wachau Wines: Buy some wine bottles to take home.
  • Apricot products: Buy apricot jam, schnapps, and other products derived from apricot.
  • Handicrafts: You can buy beautiful handmade items like pottery, wooden toys, and traditional clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Emmersdorf

Emmersdorf has a rich cultural history, and its people have deep-rooted traditions and customs. Some customs are:

  • Wine festivals: “Wachau Wine Festival” is one of the most famous festivals in Emmersdorf, celebrating the town’s wine heritage.
  • Wedding customs: The town has an elaborate wedding tradition with special customs like traditional dress, dances and live music.

Best Time to Visit Emmersdorf

The best time to visit Emmersdorf is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild, and the countryside is lush green, and there are plenty of outdoor activities. September and October are also great times to visit as the harvest season begins, and there are many wine festivals in the region.

Do’s and Don’ts of Emmersdorf

Do:

  • Take the time to explore: Emmersdorf has a lot to offer, so take your time and explore every nook and corner of the town.
  • Try the local wines: Wachau is famous for its wines, so make sure to try some.

Don’t:

  • Be too loud or rowdy: Emmersdorf is a peaceful town, and people prefer it that way.

Safety and Health

Safety in Emmersdorf

Emmersdorf is a very safe town, and there are no specific safety concerns that travelers should worry about.

Health in Emmersdorf

There is a pharmacy located in Emmersdorf town, and the nearest hospital is in Krems, which is around 13 km away.

Getting to Emmersdorf: Transportation Options and Logistics

Emmersdorf is easily accessible by different transportation modes. We have listed the options below:

Airports Near Emmersdorf

  • Vienna International Airport: Approximately 100 km away from Emmersdorf.

Bus Stations Near Emmersdorf

  • Emmersdorf/Ybbs Bahnhof: A local bus station in Emmersdorf town.

Other Options

  • Train: You can take a train to the town of Melk and then take a bus to Emmersdorf.

How to Get Around in Emmersdorf

Emmersdorf is a small town, and most places are within walking distance. However, you can rent bicycles or take a taxi if needed.

Where to Go Next from Emmersdorf: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Melk Abbey: A Benedictine abbey, world-renowned for its stunning architecture, located around 12 km away from Emmersdorf.
  • St. Pölten: The capital of Lower Austria, located around 50 km away from Emmersdorf

Conclusion

Emmersdorf is a hidden gem in Austria, packed with cultural and natural wonders. It has something for everyone, so make sure to add it to your travel itinerary. We hope this guide proves helpful in planning your visit to Emmersdorf, Austria.