Göttweig Abbey: Baroque above the Danube
The Benedictine abbey on the hill opposite the Wachau
- Duration
- 2.0 hours
- Languages
- German, English
On a hill south of Krems, Göttweig Abbey rises high above the Danube valley. Your guide shows you one of Austria's most impressive monasteries.
The Benedictine abbey was founded in the 11th century and, after a major fire in the 18th century, redesigned in grand baroque style. Your guide tells you about monastic life, prayer and work, and why the new building was never fully completed.
A highlight is the Imperial Staircase, one of the most magnificent baroque staircases in Europe. Its ceiling fresco by Paul Troger shows Emperor Charles VI as the sun god Apollo. In the abbey church and on the terrace you enjoy art and views at once, on clear days far across the Wachau.
Göttweig Abbey is part of the Wachau UNESCO World Heritage site and complements any Wachau tour. The tour is private and priced per group.
Highlights
- Imperial Staircase with Paul Troger's fresco
- Abbey church and baroque complex
- Views over the Danube valley
- Benedictine life past and present
- Part of the Wachau UNESCO World Heritage site
The route
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1Abbey courtyard
Arrival on the Göttweig hill.
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2Imperial Staircase
The famous staircase with its ceiling fresco.
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3Abbey church
Baroque church at the heart of the monastery.
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4Terrace
Panorama over Krems and the Wachau.
Who this tour is for
For culture lovers, baroque fans and guests on a Wachau trip.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included in the price?
No. Admission to the abbey is not included and is paid on site.
How do we get up there?
The abbey sits on a hill and is reached by car or coach. We plan the journey with you.
