Best Fun And Unique Things To Do And See In Lower Austria

Visit Museums: Lower Austria is home to various museums, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, offering art and historical exhibits to explore.
Explore Palaces and Castles: Take shelter from the rain by visiting the opulent palaces and castles, such as Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna or Melk Abbey in Lower Austria.
Relax in Thermal Spas: Lower Austria has several thermal spas and wellness centers, such as Therme Wien and St. Martins Therme & Lodge, where you can unwind and enjoy the warm waters.
Attend a Concert or Theater Performance: Spend the day immersed in the arts by attending a concert or theater performance in Vienna or one of the smaller venues in Lower Austria.
Indoor Sports and Activities: Many towns in Lower Austria have indoor sports facilities, bowling alleys, and recreational centers to keep you active and entertained.
Explore Underground Attractions: Venture into the underground world of Lower Austria with a visit to the Seegrotte Hinterbrühl, a fascinating underground lake and cave system.
Wine Tasting: Seek shelter in one of Lower Austria’s wine taverns (Heuriger) or wine cellars for a cozy wine-tasting experience.
Visit Art Galleries: Explore art galleries and exhibitions in Vienna or smaller towns in Lower Austria, appreciating the local and international art scene.
Learn About History: Delve into Lower Austria’s rich history by visiting historical landmarks, local heritage sites, or attending historical presentations.
Culinary Experiences: Enjoy a culinary tour by sampling traditional Austrian dishes and regional specialties in cozy restaurants or cafes.

Here are some of the best places for shopping in Lower Austria:
Vienna: As the capital city of Austria, Vienna is a shopping paradise with a mix of traditional markets, high-end boutiques, and modern shopping centers. The bustling shopping streets of Mariahilfer Straße and Kärntner Straße offer a diverse range of shops and department stores.
Designer Outlet Parndorf: Located near Vienna, this outlet village is a popular shopping destination for fashion enthusiasts. It features more than 150 designer brands offering discounts on clothing, accessories, and home goods.
Krems Old Town: The historic streets of Krems are lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and specialty shops. It’s a great place to find local crafts, wines, and regional products.
St. Pölten: The capital city of Lower Austria, St. Pölten, has several shopping areas, including the City Center St. Pölten and the Traisenpark Shopping Center, where visitors can find a wide range of shops and dining options.
Tulln: This riverside town is known for its weekly farmer’s markets and flower market. Visitors can find fresh produce, regional delicacies, and beautiful flowers.
Wiener Neustadt: Explore the bustling city center of Wiener Neustadt, which offers various shops, boutiques, and markets, including the Fischapark shopping center.
Melk: In addition to visiting the magnificent Melk Abbey, the town of Melk also has small shops and boutiques where you can find local crafts and souvenirs.
Baden bei Wien: This spa town has a charming pedestrian zone with shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it a pleasant place for a leisurely shopping experience.
Klosterneuburg: Apart from visiting the Klosterneuburg Monastery, the town has shops where you can find local products and crafts.
Wachau: The villages of the Wachau region have small shops and wineries where visitors can purchase local wines and delicacies.

Here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in the region:
Hiking and Trekking: Lower Austria is blessed with beautiful landscapes, including the Austrian Alps, the Wachau Valley, and rolling hills. There are numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels, offering stunning views and opportunities to connect with nature.
Cycling and Biking: Explore Lower Austria’s scenic countryside on two wheels. The region has well-marked bike paths, including the Danube Cycle Path and the Wachau Cycle Path, providing a fantastic way to discover the countryside and charming towns.
Rock Climbing: Adventure seekers can enjoy rock climbing in the Hohe Wand Nature Park, a popular destination for climbing enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Canoeing and Kayaking: The Danube River and Lake Neusiedl offer excellent opportunities for water sports such as canoeing and kayaking. Paddle along the tranquil waters and take in the picturesque surroundings.
Paragliding and Hang Gliding: Experience the thrill of flying over Lower Austria’s landscapes with paragliding or hang gliding. Several sites offer tandem flights for beginners and experienced flyers.
Wildlife Watching: Lower Austria’s natural areas provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing wildlife. Lake Neusiedl is particularly renowned for its diverse bird species.
Skiing and Winter Sports: During the winter months, the Austrian Alps in Lower Austria becomes a playground for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports.
Nature Walks and Picnics: Enjoy leisurely walks through Lower Austria’s forests, parks, and gardens. Pack a picnic and savor the peaceful surroundings.
Camping and Nature Retreats: Spend a night under the stars at one of the region’s camping sites or nature retreats, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the outdoors.
Geo-Caching: Join a geo-caching adventure, a modern-day treasure hunt that takes participants on exciting quests through Lower Austria’s diverse landscape.

Here’s a suggested itinerary to make the most of your day in Lower Austria:
Morning: Start your day with a visit to one of Lower Austria’s historic towns, such as Melk or Krems. Explore the charming streets, admire the architecture, and perhaps visit a local bakery or café to enjoy a traditional Austrian breakfast.
Head to Melk Abbey, a magnificent Benedictine abbey perched on a hill overlooking the Danube River. Take a guided tour to learn about its rich history and impressive Baroque architecture.
After the abbey visit, walk down to the riverbank and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Danube. Take in the beautiful scenery and perhaps snap some photos of the picturesque landscape.
Midday: 4. For lunch, visit a Heuriger establishment in the Wachau Valley. Sample the region’s delicious wines and savor local specialties like schnitzel or hearty stews.
After lunch, head to one of the scenic viewpoints in the region, such as the Göttweig Abbey or the ruins of Dürnstein Castle. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the vineyards and the Danube.
Afternoon: 6. Drive or take a boat ride to the charming village of Dürnstein. Explore the cobblestone streets and visit the blue-and-white Stift Dürnstein church, known for its history and stunning interior.
If time permits, you can also explore the picturesque town of Weissenkirchen or visit some of the nearby wineries for tastings.
Evening: 8. Return to your base in Lower Austria, and if you have time, explore the city of St. Pölten. Take a leisurely walk in the city center or visit the Domplatz, a historic square with a lovely atmosphere.
For dinner, head to a traditional Austrian restaurant in St. Pölten or another nearby town. Enjoy some classic Austrian dishes like Tafelspitz or Kaiserschmarrn.
End your day with a relaxing evening stroll or find a cozy spot to sit and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Lower Austria before heading back to your accommodation.

Here are some of the best sightseeing tours in Lower Austria:
Wachau Valley Day Trip from Vienna: This full-day tour takes you from Vienna to the stunning Wachau Valley, where you can explore the picturesque villages, visit Melk Abbey, and enjoy a boat cruise along the Danube River.
Vienna Woods and Mayerling Half-Day Trip: Discover the beautiful Vienna Woods and visit the Mayerling hunting lodge on this half-day tour from Vienna, which offers a mix of nature and history.
Melk Abbey and Danube Valley Day Trip: Take a guided day trip from Vienna to Melk Abbey, followed by a scenic drive through the Danube Valley, offering breathtaking views of the river and vineyards.
Krems and Danube River Valley Day Trip: Explore the historic town of Krems, followed by a relaxing boat trip on the Danube River, providing insights into the region’s wine culture and landscapes.
Vienna City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Tour: Discover Vienna’s top attractions at your own pace with a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which allows you to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and cultural sites.
Schönbrunn Palace Skip-the-Line Guided Tour: Visit the impressive Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and explore its opulent rooms and beautiful gardens with a knowledgeable guide.
Vienna Evening Heuriger Tour: Experience the Heuriger tradition in Vienna with an evening tour that takes you to traditional wine taverns to sample local wines and enjoy Austrian cuisine.
Esterházy Palace Guided Tour: Discover the elegance of Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt with a guided tour that showcases its historic rooms and cultural heritage.
Wine Tasting Tours in Wachau or Carnuntum: Participate in wine tasting tours in Lower Austria’s renowned wine regions, where you can sample a variety of local wines and learn about winemaking traditions.

Here are some of the best day trips from Lower Austria:
Vienna: The Austrian capital is within easy reach from Lower Austria and offers a plethora of attractions, including historic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scenes.
Wachau Valley: Explore the picturesque Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vineyards, charming towns, and Danube River cruises.
Bratislava, Slovakia: Just a short distance away, Bratislava is an ideal day trip option, where you can discover its old town, castle, and rich history.
Krems and Dürnstein: Visit the historic town of Krems and the stunning riverside town of Dürnstein, known for its castle ruins and captivating beauty.
Melk Abbey: Experience the grandeur of Melk Abbey, a breathtaking Baroque masterpiece perched on a hilltop overlooking the Danube River.
Graz: Travel to Graz, Austria’s second-largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, to explore its well-preserved old town and intriguing cultural scene.
Salzburg: Although a longer day trip, Salzburg is worth it for its musical heritage, enchanting old town, and iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Lake Neusiedl: Relax at Lake Neusiedl, a scenic lake offering opportunities for water sports and birdwatching, located near the border of Lower Austria and Burgenland.
Eisenstadt: Visit Eisenstadt to discover Esterházy Palace, the former residence of the Esterházy princes, and delve into its rich musical history.
Schneeberg: Take a mountain excursion to Schneeberg, the highest peak in Lower Austria, for stunning views and outdoor activities.

Here are some enjoyable things to do on a sunny day in Lower Austria:
Explore the Wachau Valley: Take a scenic drive or bike ride through the picturesque Wachau Valley, known for its vineyards, charming villages, and stunning views of the Danube River.
Visit Historic Towns: Explore the historic towns of Krems, Dürnstein, and Melk, each offering unique architecture, cultural landmarks, and opportunities for leisurely walks.
Danube River Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing boat cruise along the Danube River, providing a different perspective of the landscape and passing by beautiful riverside towns.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Embark on hiking trails in the Austrian Alps or the Vienna Woods, offering panoramic vistas and opportunities to connect with nature.
Wine Tasting: Visit local wineries and Heuriger establishments to sample regional wines amidst the vineyards in the warm sunshine.
Picnic in the Parks: Pack a picnic and spend the day in one of Lower Austria’s picturesque parks or gardens, such as Stadtpark in Vienna or Laxenburg Castle Park.
Outdoor Sports: Engage in outdoor sports such as cycling, mountain biking, or playing golf in Lower Austria’s scenic landscapes.
Visit Lake Neusiedl: Head to Lake Neusiedl for swimming, sailing, or relaxing by the lake, enjoying the sun and water activities.
Wildlife and Nature Watching: Take binoculars for birdwatching in the Neusiedler See-Seewinkel National Park or enjoy nature walks in Hohe Wand Nature Park.
Open-Air Events: Check for open-air concerts, festivals, and cultural events happening in Lower Austria’s towns and cities during sunny days.