What to See and Do in Melk
Vienna and Salzburg seem to get all the attention in Austria, but there is lots to do in some of the smaller towns. The charming medieval town of Melk is one of those lesser known towns that is worth a visit. Whether you are there for an hour or a day, you may be wondering what to see and do in Melk. We only visited for a couple of hours as a stop on a river cruise so our time there was limited.
Melk is a town of about 5,500 people located in eastern Austria. It is on the banks of the Danube River, west of Vienna. As well as being easily reached by boat, you could also drive, take the train, or ride a bike to get here. Melk is very compact, so once there it is easy to walk around the whole town.
The best known attraction in Melk is its Benedictine monastery. The ochre yellow building stands on a hilltop overlooking the town and the Danube River. Melk Abbey or Stift Melk, was built in the early 1700’s, although the monastery was first founded in the year 1089. It is currently home to 22 monks. You can take photos outside the Abbey and tour the inside, but no photos are permitted inside. The library with its walls of books is really impressive.
Melk itself is a quaint town that invites wandering through its streets. Make time to stop in Rathausplatz, the cobblestoned pedestrian only square. You can have lunch or coffee here, and admire the Koloman Fountain. The square is also surrounded by many unique shops.
When it comes time to eat and drink, be sure to try some the apricot specialties that this region is known for. This includes dumplings, cake, jams, and gin. You also can’t go wrong with some of the local wines, as Melk is at one end of the Wachau Valley. This valley produces wonderful Gruner Veltliner and Riesling wines.
If you have a bike or want to rent one while you are there, cycling is easy and flat. The Danube Cycle Path or Donauradweg, runs right alongside the river. You also have the option of crossing the river on some ferries along the route so you can cycle along the other side.
Close to Melk you could also visit the Schallaburg Castle. This Renaissance style castle is about 6 km away from Melk and easily reached by car, train, taxi, bike, or hiking path. Guided tours are available and they offer unique themed exhibits.
And finally, if you decide you would like to stay in Melk, there are some great accommodations. These include:
Rathauskeller Melk in the pedestrian zone in the Old Town
Wachauerhof a family run hotel in the historic centre of Melk
Pension l-Etage a guesthouse close to Melk Abbey
The Old Bakery vacation home apartment in the heart of Melk
