Top 6 Castles around Krems an der Donau
Best castles around Krems an der Donau offer a journey through history in the picturesque Wachau Valley. This region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features the Danube River and a landscape dotted with medieval ruins and historic palaces. These architectural sites provide insights into Austria's past, set against a backdrop of natural scenery.
Best castles around Krems an der Donau
- The most popular castles is Wolfsberg Castle, a castle built in the 16th century in the Renaissance style. It is located on a hill above Angern and is visible from a distance.
- Another must-see spot is Rehberg Castle Ruins, a castle and historical site. These 12th-century ruins are freely accessible in their outer bailey and church area, offering a glimpse into medieval history.
- Visitors also love Gozzoburg, a significant medieval secular building in the historic center of Krems an der Donau. It is notable for its well-preserved frescoes and historical importance as a city palace.
- Krems an der Donau is known for its variety of castles, including medieval ruins, historic palaces, and Renaissance-style structures. Visitors can explore fortified castles, stately city residences, and scenic castle ruins.
- The castles around Krems an der Donau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 100 upvotes and over 100 photos shared across 7 highlights.
Last updated: June 26, 2026
Rehberg Castle Ruins
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The outer bailey and the church area are freely accessible.
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Gozzoburg
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Wolfsberg Castle
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Hollenburg Ruins (Bertholdstein)
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Wasserhof Castle
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The castle has been owned by the Viennese architect Ernst Linsberger since 2007, who extensively renovated it between 2011 and 2015.
More about the story:
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Wasserhof_(Gneixendorf)
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Gozzoburg Krems
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THE GOZZO CASTLE
A late Romanesque, L-shaped building from the period after 1235 forms the core of the Gozzo Castle with a high entrance and three preserved arched windows. After the Krems city judge Gozzo von Krems took over this house in the late 1240s, the core building was expanded in three phases into a handsome palace complex. The first documented mention of the name was in 1258, and the newly built St. Catherine's Chapel was inaugurated in 1267.
Gozzo Castle: A piece of Krems history. The castle was last revitalized in 2007. The oldest and best-preserved secular frescoes in Central Europe were uncovered. The Gozzo Castle was awarded the Europa Nostra Prize for its exemplary restoration.
Today, parts of the castle are used as a university and restaurant location.
Text / Source: CHARLY TEUSCHL – GOZZO by Late, Hoher Markt 11, 3500 Krems
gozzo.at/cms
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View of Schloss Waldenburg and Vineyards
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Small House by St. Catherine’s Chapel
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The Gozzoburg is a high medieval city castle in Krems an der Donau in Lower Austria. The city castle is among the most important buildings in the early Gothic style in Lower Austria. The building consists of an eastern and a western wing, which are connected by the original building fabric.
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The multi-part building complex of the Gozzoburg originated as a town castle from the second half of the 11th century and was expanded in the 3rd quarter of the 13th century by the citizen Gozzo. In the east wing is the so-called St. Catherine's Chapel from around 1260. The chapel was probably profaned at the end of the 17th century and divided into two residential floors in the first quarter of the 19th century. After these additions had been removed again, Gothic architectural details such as remains of wall paintings and architectural sculpture are still preserved today.
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The Gozzoburg is one of the most significant secular medieval structures north of the Alps and, with the St. Catherine's Chapel it contains, is particularly worth preserving both historically and artistically.
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The former castle has been beautifully renovated.
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The Gozzoburg, located in the historic center of Krems an der Donau, is one of Austria's most important medieval secular buildings. Built in the 13th century, it is named after the city judge Gozzo, who used it as his residence and official seat. Despite its name, it is not a fortified castle, but rather a stately city palace adorned with valuable murals – including one of the oldest surviving secular fresco cycles north of the Alps. Today, the Gozzoburg serves cultural and administrative purposes and can be visited on guided tours. Its central location in the old town and its art historical significance make it a worthwhile destination for a short detour, even during a bicycle tour of Krems.
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Very striking tower, which can be seen very well from the Danube cycle path.
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A beautiful starting point for the World Heritage Trail here in Krems.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of castles can I explore around Krems an der Donau?
The region around Krems an der Donau offers a diverse range of castles. You can find dramatic medieval ruins perched high above the Danube, such as Aggstein Castle and Dürnstein Castle, as well as opulent historicist masterpieces like Grafenegg Castle. There are also significant medieval secular buildings, like the Gozzoburg in the heart of Krems, which served as a city palace rather than a fortification.
Are there any family-friendly castles or activities near Krems an der Donau?
Yes, several castles offer family-friendly experiences. The Gozzoburg in Krems is noted as family-friendly, offering a glimpse into medieval urban life. Exploring the ruins of Aggstein Castle can also be an exciting adventure for families, with its exhibitions and dramatic setting. Additionally, the View of Schloss Waldenburg and Vineyards is a family-friendly viewpoint that includes castle scenery.
What is the best time of year to visit the castles in the Wachau Valley?
The Wachau Valley castles are beautiful throughout the year, but spring (March-May) and autumn (September-October) offer particularly pleasant weather for exploring and stunning scenic views, especially during the apricot blossom season in spring or the grape harvest in autumn. Winter can offer a unique, quieter experience, though some facilities might have reduced hours.
Are there hiking trails that connect or pass by these castles?
Absolutely. The region is excellent for combining castle visits with outdoor activities. For example, the apricot adventure trail leads past Wolfsberg Castle. You can find many routes, including easy hikes, around Krems an der Donau that incorporate castle views and historical sites. Check out the guide for Easy hikes around Krems an der Donau for options like the 'Vineyard Walk in the Wachau Valley'.
Which castles offer the most scenic views of the Danube and Wachau Valley?
For breathtaking panoramic views, Aggstein Castle, perched high above the Danube, is a top choice. Dürnstein Castle ruins also offer iconic vistas of the picturesque Wachau Valley. Schönbühel Castle similarly provides stunning views overlooking the Danube, making it ideal for those who appreciate picturesque scenery.
Can I visit medieval ruins that are freely accessible?
Yes, the Rehberg Castle Ruins are freely accessible in their outer bailey and church area, offering a direct glimpse into 12th-century history. The Hollenburg Ruins (Bertholdstein) also present a striking historical landmark visible from the Danube cycle path.
Are there options for cycling near the castles?
The Wachau Valley is very popular for cycling. You can find numerous routes for gravel biking and road cycling that pass through the scenic landscape, often with views of castles and vineyards. Explore guides like Gravel biking around Krems an der Donau or Road Cycling Routes around Krems an der Donau for routes such as the 'Wachau Vineyards Route' or the 'Danube Riverside Cycle Path'.
Which castle is known for its unique architectural style?
Grafenegg Castle stands out for its unique architectural style. It's a 19th-century historicist masterpiece that seamlessly blends various historical architectural elements, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Neo-Gothic, creating a visually stunning and distinct aesthetic.
What historical significance does the Gozzoburg hold?
The Gozzoburg is one of Austria's most significant medieval secular buildings, dating back to the 13th century. It was the residence and official seat of city judge Gozzo and is notable for its well-preserved frescoes, including one of the oldest surviving secular fresco cycles north of the Alps. It offers a unique insight into medieval urban aristocratic life.
Can I find less crowded castles in the Wachau region?
While popular sites like Aggstein and Dürnstein can attract crowds, exploring other historical sites like Rehberg Castle Ruins or Hollenburg Ruins (Bertholdstein) might offer a quieter experience. Wasserhof Castle is another historical site that contributes to the rich tapestry of the region and may be less frequented.
Is there a castle associated with a famous legend?
Yes, Dürnstein Castle ruins are famously associated with the legend of England's King Richard the Lionheart. He was reportedly held captive there until his loyal minstrel, Blondel, found him. This captivating legend adds a romantic and historical allure to the site.
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