Emmersdorf & Melk
At the south-western entrance of the beautiful, UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley lie the charming town of Emmersdorf and the historic city of Melk – two of Lower Austria’s prettiest and most popular holiday destinations. Whether you choose to explore one or both of these small, yet attraction-packed settlements situated on opposite sides of the River Danube, you’re in for an enjoyable and rewarding experience here during your Danube River cruise.
The centre of Emmersdorf is within walking distance of your riverboat’s berth and is the perfect place to start a couple of hours of relaxing exploration ashore. Head into the town beyond the colourful waterfront buildings and you’ll uncover a few interesting sites, including the late-gothic parish church of St Nikolaus, a collection of 16th century wine houses, the Town Hall and a couple of fine restaurants such as Schloss Rothenhof. Look over towards Melk and the sight of the magnificent Melk Abbey will hint at the historic highlights awaiting you across the river.
Melk is a short journey across the Danube Bridge from Emmersdorf and no time here is complete without venturing over the river to visit the city’s iconic Benedictine abbey – considered one of the most famous, elaborate and important monasteries in Austria. While the abbey’s stunning architecture is a sight to behold, its hill-top position also provides spectacular views of Melk, the Danube and the surrounding countryside scenery which are not-to-be-missed. Elsewhere in the city – which is easily explored on foot – it’s worth taking in the 16th century Town Hall; Haus am Stein, Melk’s oldest building; and the striking towers and domes of the Stiftskirche.
Cruises to Emmersdorf & Melk


Cities and Scenery of the Historic Danube & Main • R2104
- Embark on an epic journey spanning four countries and discover some of the Danube and Main’s most scenic regions, as well as cities bursting with rich history and culture.
- In Germany, uncover the fairytale-esque castles, palaces and churches of Miltenberg, Wertheim, Würzburg and Passau; explore Regensburg’s medieval heart; and enjoy smoky beers in Bamberg.
- Experience scenic cruising of the gorgeous Wachau Valley, and immerse yourself in the charms of Vienna; discover the attractions of Bratislava; and see Budapest by night.


Cultural Cities of the Upper Danube • R2106
- This epic journey packs in the best of the Danube, combining cultural, historical and architectural delights with the scenery of beautifully unspoilt landscapes.
- Succumb to the charms of Hungary’s capital, with time to explore both the ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’ sides; and uncover attractions aplenty in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.
- In Austria, you’ll get to engage with the beauty, history and musical heritage of Vienna; experience unforgettable scenic cruising of the Wachau Valley; and visit colourful Emmersdorf and Melk.


Cultural Cities of the Upper Danube • R2108
- This epic journey packs in the best of the Danube, combining cultural, historical and architectural delights with the scenery of beautifully unspoilt landscapes.
- Succumb to the charms of Hungary’s capital, with time to explore both the ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’ sides; and uncover attractions aplenty in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.
- In Austria, you’ll get to engage with the beauty, history and musical heritage of Vienna; experience unforgettable scenic cruising of the Wachau Valley; and visit colourful Emmersdorf and Melk.


Historic Voyage from the Danube to the Rhine • R2109
- Sailing to scenic regions and historic cities in four countries via the Danube and Rhine, you’re in for an unforgettable, immensely rewarding voyage.
- See the night-lights of Budapest, and explore the Hungarian capital by day too; discover the attractions of Bratislava; and revel in scenic cruising of the gorgeous Wachau Valley.
- Take in the charms of Passau, Regensburg and Würzburg on the Main, before finally visiting Rüdesheim – famed for its history and wines – and enchanting Koblenz on the Rhine.


Cities and Scenery of the Historic Danube & Main • R2121
- Embark on an epic journey spanning four countries and discover some of the Danube and Main’s most scenic regions, as well as cities bursting with rich history and culture.
- In Germany, uncover the fairytale-esque castles, palaces and churches of Miltenberg, Wertheim, Würzburg and Passau; explore Regensburg’s medieval heart; and enjoy smoky beers in Bamberg.
- Experience scenic cruising of the gorgeous Wachau Valley, and immerse yourself in the charms of Vienna; discover the attractions of Bratislava; and see Budapest by night.


The Complete Danube • R212223
- Embark on an epic exploration of the complete Danube and immerse yourself in the beauty, history and cultures of inspirational regions and destinations in eight different countries.
- Enjoy a traditional Serbian folklore show in Belgrade; uncover Ruse’s Bulgarian delights; sail the extraordinary Iron Gates gorge; and explore the Danube Delta, Romania’s natural wonderland.
- On the return journey, highlights include chances to see Budapest’s iconic attractions; witness the scenic splendour of the Wachau Valley; and engage with Vienna’s legendary musical heritage.


Cultural Cities of the Upper Danube • R2123
- This epic journey packs in the best of the Danube, combining cultural, historical and architectural delights with the scenery of beautifully unspoilt landscapes.
- Succumb to the charms of Hungary’s capital, with time to explore both the ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’ sides; and uncover attractions aplenty in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.
- In Austria, you’ll get to engage with the beauty, history and musical heritage of Vienna; experience unforgettable scenic cruising of the Wachau Valley; and visit colourful Emmersdorf and Melk.


The Autumnal Danube • R2124
- This epic journey packs in the best of the Danube, combining cultural, historical and architectural delights with the scenery of beautifully unspoilt landscapes.
- Succumb to the charms of Hungary’s capital, with time to explore both the ‘Buda’ and ‘Pest’ sides; and uncover attractions aplenty in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.
- In Austria, you’ll get to engage with the beauty, history and musical heritage of Vienna; experience unforgettable scenic cruising of the Wachau Valley; and visit colourful Emmersdorf and Melk.