Private Day Trip From Vienna to Mauthausen & Melk, and Back

Exploring Austria’s poignant history and stunning landscapes is a must-do for many visitors to Vienna. This private day trip offers a chance to explore the somber past of Mauthausen Concentration Camp and marvel at the baroque splendor of Melk Abbey, all while enjoying the comfort of a air-conditioned vehicle and scenic countryside vistas. Whether you’re seeking a deeper understanding of Europe’s history or simply desire to experience the natural beauty of Austria, this excursion promises a thought-provoking and visually captivating journey.

Key Points

• Comprehensive private day trip from Vienna to the Mauthausen concentration camp and Melk Abbey, with round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Approximately 2 hours of self-guided exploration at each site, allowing visitors to enjoy the historical and cultural significance.
• Experienced, English-speaking driver ensures a seamless journey and provides assistance throughout the trip.
• Opportunities for scenic photo stops and refreshment breaks to recharge during the 8-hour excursion.
• Explore the Benedictine monastery of Melk Abbey, renowned for its Baroque architecture and serene gardens.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Day Trip

This private day trip from Vienna offers travelers a chance to explore two of Austria’s most historic sites – the Mauthausen concentration camp and the stunning Melk Abbey.

The 8-hour excursion includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup from your desired location in Vienna.

The 8-hour excursion includes round-trip transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with pickup from your desired location in Vienna.

You’ll spend approximately 2 hours at each site, allowing time for self-guided tours, photo opportunities, and breaks.

Tickets to the attractions aren’t included but can be purchased online or on-site.

This private tour provides a seamless and flexible way to discover these significant destinations.

Transportation Details

For this private day trip from Vienna, transportation is provided in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle.

The vehicle type used will depend on the size of the group. Smaller groups of 1-3 people will travel in a sedan or combi, while a group of 4 will be transported in an MPV. For larger groups of 5-8 people, a VAN will be provided.

An experienced, English-speaking driver will accompany the group for the entire day. This ensures a seamless and comfortable journey between the two main destinations – Mauthausen concentration camp and Melk Abbey.

Visiting Mauthausen Concentration Camp

Although Mauthausen was one of the largest and most brutal concentration camps during the Nazi regime, the private day trip allows visitors to reflect on this sobering history.

The guided tour through the camp includes:

The guided tour through the camp includes visiting the Stairs of Death, gas chamber, and learning about the harsh living conditions.

1. A visit to the "Stairs of Death", where prisoners were forced to carry heavy granite blocks up 186 steps.

2. Viewing the gas chamber and crematorium, chilling reminders of the atrocities committed.

3. Learning about the harsh living conditions and the thousands of prisoners who perished at Mauthausen.

Despite the heavy subject matter, the tour provides a meaningful opportunity to pay respects and gain a deeper understanding of this dark chapter in history.

Break and Photo Opportunities

After visiting the sobering sites at Mauthausen, the day trip provides much-needed breaks and opportunities to capture the scenic landscapes along the way.

The tour includes several photo stops, allowing guests to stretch their legs and immortalize the picturesque views. This includes the drive through the Austrian countryside, with its rolling hills, charming villages, and the mighty Danube River.

During the journey, the air-conditioned vehicle also makes a break for refreshments, ensuring travelers stay hydrated and energized for the next destination – the magnificent Melk Abbey and its surrounding area.

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Exploring Melk Abbey and Its Surroundings

The tour continues to the magnificent Melk Abbey, a stunning Benedictine monastery perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the serene Danube River.

Visitors can expect to:

Explore the lavish Baroque-style architecture and ornate interiors of the abbey, including the impressive library and iconic church.

1. Explore the lavish Baroque-style architecture and ornate interiors of the abbey, including the impressive library and iconic church.

2. Stroll through the peaceful abbey gardens and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

3. Enjoy a break and take photos to capture the beauty and serenity of this historic site before returning to Vienna.

Returning to Vienna

With the Melk Abbey visit complete, the tour group heads back to Vienna.

The experienced, English-speaking driver takes the group on the return journey, providing any additional local insights along the way. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride back to the city. The trip duration is approximately 1.5 hours.

Upon arrival in Vienna, the driver drops off the group at their original pickup location or another point of their choosing within the city.

The private day trip to Mauthausen and Melk has come to an end, leaving the group with memories and experiences from their excursion.

Important Considerations

Although professional drivers aren’t licensed guides, they can still share valuable local knowledge throughout the day trip.

Travelers should keep a few important considerations in mind:

1. Opening hours and ticket availability – Verify these independently, as they may change without notice.

2. Wheelchair accessibility – The tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing all visitors to fully participate.

3. Additional requests – Contact the provider for any custom private transfers or sightseeing stops that may be desired beyond the standard itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Recommended Attire for the Day Trip?

For a day trip, comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Wear layers, sturdy walking shoes, and bring any necessary sun protection or rain gear. The key is dressing for a mix of indoor and outdoor activities throughout the day.

Can We Stop for Lunch During the Tour?

Yes, the tour includes a break time where travelers can stop for lunch. The itinerary allows for approximately 2 hours at each destination, providing ample opportunity to enjoy a meal during the day trip.

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

There is no mention of discounts for children or seniors in the provided information. The tour price appears to be a standard rate per person, regardless of age. Additional inquiries would be needed to determine if any discounted pricing options are available.

Can the Driver Provide Guided Tours at the Sites?

The driver is not a licensed tour guide and cannot provide guided tours at the sites. However, they can share local knowledge and assist with arranging self-guided tours or purchasing tickets upon arrival.

Are Pets Allowed on the Tour?

The tour does not allow pets. The company’s policy is to only accommodate service animals due to the sensitive nature of the sites visited and the comfort of all passengers.

The Sum Up

This private day trip from Vienna to Mauthausen and Melk Abbey offers a poignant and breathtaking experience. Guests will have ample time to reflect on the historical significance of Mauthausen while admiring the Baroque splendor of Melk Abbey. The comfortable, air-conditioned transportation and scenic photo opportunities throughout the Austrian countryside make this an unforgettable excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here: