As the gateway to the Wachau region, Krems and its neighboring town
Stein are undoubtedly the most picturesque cities from which to begin exploring the
Austrian countryside. Located west along the Danube 64km from Vienna, the narrow cobbled
streets of Krems seamlessly blend the old and new—cafes and shops along the commercial
thoroughfare hide networks of twisted alleyways, where you will stumble across hidden
plazas and doors. Wander from one hallowed church to the next (Pfarrkirche,
Piaristenkriche, and Frauenbergkirche are just a few), and take in the view from the
hillside beneath the ancient Pulverturm. In addition to its historical foundation, Krems
has secured its place in the hearts of art-lovers with the KunstMiele (Art Mile) and in
the livers of wine-lovers as a premiere wine region.

In the neighboring town of Stein, the main street Steiner Landstrasse has the
most gorgeous old building facades enlivened with flower boxes and in some cases a
refreshing coat of paint. Here in Minoritenpl., the Minoritenkirche has been altered into
a convertible space for artists to rent and display their work. On a warm summer day,
stroll along the Danube back to Krems and then take the boat home, just in time to watch
the shadows begin to lengthen over the glistening blue of the Donau.