Nestled beautifully on the banks of the Danube River, Krems an der Donau is a stunning mix of ancient history and modern culture. As the vibrant gateway to the Wachau Valley, this Austrian city offers experience-driven travelers everything from world-class art museums to breathtaking abbeys and premium riverside dining.
1. Is Krems Worth Visiting?
If you are putting together an Austrian travel itinerary, you might wonder if Krems is just a quick stopover or a true destination. Let me clear that up: it is absolutely worth a spot on your list.
Krems is a city that wears two completely different hats. On one hand, it feels like stepping back in time. On the other, it is a bustling hub of modern art and high-end luxury. Whether you want to explore medieval streets or browse contemporary galleries, this city has you covered.
The Historic Gateway to the Wachau
As one of the oldest cities in Austria, Krems is bursting with charm. Walking through its historic center feels a bit like wandering through an open-air museum.
The city has carefully preserved its medieval architecture, cobblestone alleys, and grand, sweeping squares. Because it sits right at the edge of the famous Danube River valley, it acts as the perfect starting line for your regional adventure. It is the ideal place to soak up authentic Austrian history before venturing deeper into the countryside.
A Hub for Art and Luxury
But Krems is not just stuck in the past. It is a genuine gold mine for culture lovers.
The city is famous for its “Art Mile,” a sleek, modern strip dedicated to world-class galleries and exhibitions. After a morning of taking in contemporary art, you can easily transition to a luxurious afternoon. You can treat yourself to a premium riverboat tour or enjoy an upscale meal right by the water. It provides the perfect balance of old-world charm and modern, high-end sophistication.
2. Best Things to Do in Krems
Once you arrive, the real fun begins. The beauty of Krems is that you can easily spend your morning diving into modern art and your afternoon walking through medieval history.
Exploring the Art Mile (Kunstmeile Krems)
If you love culture, you are going to fall in love with the Krems Art Mile. This is a dedicated strip of museums located just outside the old town center.
You can easily spend a few hours exploring the State Gallery (Landesgalerie Niederösterreich), which features a stunning, twisted modern design on the outside and incredible contemporary art on the inside. Right next door is the Karikaturmuseum, the only museum in Austria dedicated to caricature and comic art. It is a fantastic, lighthearted stop that brings a lot of fun to your trip.
Walking the Historic Old Town and Steiner Tor
To truly feel the history of the city, take a slow walk through the old town. The absolute star of the show here is the Steiner Tor.
This is a massive, beautifully preserved 15th-century city gate. It is the only remaining gate from the city’s original medieval walls and has become the proud symbol of Krems. Walking through it feels like stepping through a portal into the past. Be sure to have your camera ready, as the cobblestone streets and old merchant houses make for incredible photos.
Visiting the Majestic Göttweig Abbey
Just a short trip across the river from the city center sits the breathtaking Göttweig Abbey. This massive hilltop monastery is absolutely worth the quick detour.
Because it sits high up on a hill, it offers some of the most stunning panoramic views of the Danube River valley. Inside, the abbey is a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, featuring a grand imperial staircase covered in beautiful frescoes. It is a peaceful, awe-inspiring place that adds a touch of royal grandeur to your travel itinerary.
3. Local Food and Riverside Relaxation
After a full day of museum-hopping and exploring castle gates, you will definitely work up an appetite. Krems is a true paradise for food lovers and travelers looking to relax in style.
Sweet Treats and Apricot Delights
While some Austrian towns are famous for their chocolate, the Krems area is world-renowned for its apricots, known locally as “Marillen.”
The unique climate along the river makes this fruit incredibly sweet. You simply have to try the local Marillenknödel. These are warm, sweet apricot dumplings rolled in toasted, buttery breadcrumbs. You can also pop into a local boutique to pick up artisan apricot jams or a refreshing glass of apricot nectar. It is the perfect sweet treat after a long walk.
High-End Dining by the Danube River
When the sun starts to set, Krems offers some of the cream of the crop for premium dining. There are fantastic, high-end restaurants located right on the riverbanks.
You can book a table on an outdoor terrace and watch the water flow by while enjoying fresh, locally caught river fish, like Zander, or a modern twist on Austrian classics. It is a peaceful, luxurious way to end your day with a truly unforgettable meal.
Booking a Luxury River Cruise
If you want to take your relaxation to the next level, getting out on the water is a must. Krems is a major hub for Danube River boat tours.
You can book a premium river cruise that takes you gently up the winding river. It is smooth sailing all the way. You get to sit on a sun deck with a coffee in hand, watching the lush green hills and historic ruins glide by. It is the ultimate slow-travel experience for luxury seekers.
4. Getting to Krems
Krems is easy to reach from Vienna and other parts of eastern Austria, which makes it a simple addition to a Wachau Valley trip.
From Vienna, the journey takes around an hour by train or car. Public transport is a good choice if you mainly want to explore Krems itself, while driving gives you more flexibility to continue through the Wachau Valley and stop in places such as Dürnstein, Melk, or smaller villages.
Another option is to join a guided Wachau Valley tour from Vienna. This can be especially convenient if you want to combine Krems with vineyards, wine tastings, Danube scenery, or nearby towns without planning the transport yourself.
If you are comparing more trips from the capital, see my guide to the best day trips from Vienna.
5. Where to Stay in Krems
If you are staying overnight, the easiest base is close to the historic center or the Stein district, where you can reach restaurants, the river, and many of the main sights on foot.
Steigenberger Hotel & Spa Krems is a convenient option if you want a comfortable stay close to the vineyards and the western side of town.
If Krems is only a day trip, keeping your base in Vienna may be simpler. You can take the train in the morning and return in the evening without changing hotels. For more options, see my guide to where to stay in Vienna.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
How much time do you need in Krems?
To truly see the best of Krems, you should plan for at least one full day. This gives you enough time to explore the historic old town, walk the Art Mile, and take a short trip to the nearby Göttweig Abbey. If you want to include a luxury river cruise or a long cycling trip, staying for two days is ideal.
What is the Kunstmeile (Art Mile) in Krems?
The Kunstmeile, or Art Mile, is a one-mile stretch of world-class cultural institutions located between the historic districts of Krems and Stein. It includes the State Gallery of Lower Austria, the Karikaturmuseum (Caricature Museum), and several contemporary art galleries, making it one of the most important cultural hubs in the country.
How far is Krems from Vienna by train?
The train journey from Vienna to Krems is very convenient and usually takes between 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. There are frequent daily departures from Vienna’s main stations, making it a perfect destination for a stress-free day trip.
Can you visit Göttweig Abbey?
Yes, Göttweig Abbey is open to the public. You can visit the Abbey Church for free, while the museum in the Imperial Wing (featuring the famous grand staircase) requires a ticket, which costs approximately €14.00 for adults. The hilltop abbey is easily accessible from Krems by car or a short local train and hike.
What local food is Krems famous for?
Beyond its historical sites, Krems is famous for its “Wachau Apricots” (Marillen). You must try the local apricot dumplings, jams, and pastries. Another local specialty to look for is the Topfengolatsche, a delicious Austrian pastry filled with sweet curd cheese, perfect for a mid-day coffee break.
Is Krems a walkable city?
Yes, Krems is highly walkable. The historic old town and the Art Mile are pedestrian-friendly and best explored on foot. Most of the main attractions are located close to each other, allowing you to easily wander from the medieval Steiner Tor gate to the riverbanks in just a few minutes.
