Melk, home to a monumental Benedictine monastery perched on a rocky outcrop above the Danube. From the monastery's terraces or the adjacent gardens, enjoy another view of the river and the entire region. A walk around the monastery is a sensory experience, with the scent of lavender, the sound of fountains, and the play of light on the golden domes. Ticket to Abbey is 11-14 Eur per person. Not included

first stop in Dürnstein, an iconic town with a baroque monastery, a blue-and-white tower, and the ruins of a castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. Take a 20-30 minute walk up a forest path to Durnstein Castle for fantastic views of the Danube, vineyards, and surrounding hills.

Continue along the Danube on a scenic road lined with vineyards and rock walls. Make a short stop at one of the wine terraces (e.g., in the village of Spitz or Weissenkirchen) to enjoy views of the Wachau from above. Next, visit the dramatically perched Aggstein Castle, towering 300 meters above the river. Drive to the parking lot and then take a short walk to the castle, which offers one of the most breathtaking views of the meandering Danube. On a clear day, see for miles, with the view framed by forests and rocks. Ticket to caste is 10,50 Eur per person. Not included

arrive in the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, a region of vineyards, rock formations, river meanders, and medieval castles