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Melk Cruises, Austria

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Melk’s like a pocket-sized version of Vienna, with grand architecture and an easy-on-the-eye old quarter. When you step off at the port, the town’s showpiece immediately comes into view. Peaches-and-cream-coloured Melk Abbey is perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River, with sweeping views of the Wachau Valley. The centre of this quaint Austrian town’s a real looker, as well. Cobbled lanes are lined by Crayola-hued buildings, with flower-draped balconies strapped to the front. The butter-coloured Vienna Gate’s flanked by pale statues, and there’s a famous vine-entangled house that looks like it’s being reclaimed by nature.

Map of Melk

SHORE EXCURSIONS View all excursions

Melk Abbey

Today, you’ll get to visit the huge hilltop abbey that dominates Melk’s skyline. The UNESCO-rated Melk Abbey rivals Vienna’s Schonbrunn Palace with its lavish Baroque interiors. A 10-minute bus journey will get you to the rocky outcrop the sprawling building calls home. Then you’ll head inside for an hour-long guided tour, followed by some free time. You can learn about the Benedictine monks who have lived and worked in the abbey for more than 900 years. Or simply admire the rich ceiling frescos in the grand ballroom and main library. The latter is famous for its 100,000-strong collection of ancient books – some of which are 500 years old. There’s also an entire room full of mirrors, with four gold statues in each corner. Once you’ve finished having a look around, you’ll be taken back to the ship.

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