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Austria
Lower Austria
Mostviertel
Bezirk Melk

Ybbs an der Donau

Attractions and Places To See around Ybbs an der Donau - Top 20

Best attractions and places to see around Ybbs an der Donau is a town situated along the Danube River in Austria. It features a blend of historic architecture, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. The area offers opportunities to explore its Old Town, scenic riverside paths, and various museums. The region is characterized by its connection to the Danube and surrounding natural features like gorges.

Best attractions and places to see around Ybbs an der Donau

  • The most popular attractions is Erlauf Gorge, a gorge that features a beautiful interplay of wood, stone, and water. It is a popular natural attraction in the vicinity of Ybbs an der Donau. Visitors can explore paths through this wild and romantic natural monument.
  • Another must-see spot is View of Maria Taferl from the Danube cycle path near Krummnussbaum, a viewpoint offering views of Maria Taferl situated above the Danube. The pilgrimage church with its dome is a feature of the Wachau landscape. The well-maintained Danube Cycle Path provides access to this scenic spot.
  • Visitors also love View of Persenbeug Castle, a viewpoint providing views of Persenbeug Castle. This castle, with its history dating back to 907, is prominently situated above the Danube.
  • Ybbs an der Donau is known for its historical sites, natural gorges, and scenic viewpoints. The region offers a variety of attractions to see and explore, including the Old Town, river promenades, and cultural museums.
  • The attractions around Ybbs an der Donau are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 1100 upvotes and 170 photos shared by visitors.

Last updated: May 9, 2026

View of Maria Taferl from the Danube cycle path near Krummnussbaum

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From the Danube Cycle Path near Krummnussbaum, cyclists are treated to a particularly beautiful view of Maria Taferl, which sits picturesquely perched above the Danube. The pilgrimage church, with its distinctive dome, rises impressively above the river and is a defining feature of the Wachau landscape.

The cycle path is very well maintained, paved, and easy to ride. The combination of stunning views and a comfortable route makes the tour especially relaxing. I've cycled this route several times now – and each time it's a delightful experience.

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Ybbs Old Town

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Ybbs offers good accommodation and places to stop for refreshments. The farmer's market takes place every Friday on the main square.

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Erlauf Gorge

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Very beautiful area
The lower path is a bit difficult to walk at the moment, lots of driftwood etc.

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View of Persenbeug Castle

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A very beautiful view and a beautiful view of the castle! It looks imposing and magnificent, so close and above the Danube. Beautiful! Just take a short break and take in the perspective. The first historical mention of the castle dates back to 907. The Bavarian Sieghart, Count of Sempt and Ebersberg, took possession of "Bösenberg" and fortified it.

Further information about Persenbeug Castle can be found at:
de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schloss_Persenbeug

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Persenbeug Castle

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The first historical mention of the castle can be found in the year 907. The Bavarian Sieghart, Count of Sempt and Ebersberg, took possession of "Bösenberg" and fortified it.

Anno 1045, the Sempt-Ebersberger family died out with the death of Adalberos II on March 27, 1045. On May 27, the widow organized a solemn inheritance settlement at the castle, at which King Heinrich III. was present. Then the floor of the knight's hall collapsed due to overload, so that the whole company fell; the king escaped with minor injuries; Bishop Bruno of Würzburg and Abbot Altmann of Ebersberg lost their lives; Richlind, the widow of Adalbero II, the last Ebersberger, is also said to have died.

Over the centuries, the castle changed hands many times. It was owned by the Habsburgs until 1593. It was then sold to the Hoyo family, who expanded the castle into its current form. On December 3, 1800, Emperor Franz I of Austria bought the castle and the Persenbiege estate as free private property. At approximately the same time, the Gutenbrunn estate also became the property of Franz I, which was also incorporated into his private fund. Furthermore, Rorregg[1] Castle in Yspertal is still part of the Persenbieger estate today.

Through several inheritances, the dominions of Persenbeug and Gutenbrunn came into the possession of Emperor Franz Joseph I, who passed them on to his daughter Marie Valerie in 1916. On August 17, 1887, the last Emperor of Austria, Charles I, was born at Persenbieg Castle. Marie Valerie married Archduke Franz Salvator of Austria-Tuscany (1866–1939) in 1890. Her children, including Hubert Salvator Habsburg-Lorraine, followed as owners of Persenbeug Castle and Rorregg Castle, as well as Wallsee Castle and the Imperial Villa in Bad Ischl. Today the castle is owned by their descendants from the Habsburg-Lothringen and Waldburg-Zeil families (Wikipedia).

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Tips from the Community

Patrick
November 7, 2025, Blick auf Maria Taferl vom Donauradweg bei Krummnussbaum

It is the most important pilgrimage site in Lower Austria and the second largest in Austria after Mariazell. The basilica is an impressive early Baroque building with a striking twin-tower facade.

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The castle is prominently situated on a rock on the right bank of the Danube, above the municipality of Persenbeug-Gottsdorf, at the transition from the Strudengau to the Nibelungengau.

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great photo opportunity

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We caught a dream day, few hikers, sun and blue sky accompanied us through the gorge - definitely take the lower path, it is easy to walk and has 5 exit points.

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Here you have a great view

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Here you have a beautiful view

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Here you can cycle in a relaxed manner

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strenuous tour, travel time 2 hours, total 10 hours

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Frequently Asked Questions

What historical sites can I explore in Ybbs an der Donau?

Ybbs an der Donau boasts a rich history. You can explore the well-preserved Old Town, including the Stadtplatz with its historic buildings like the Rathaus and Stadtpfarrkirche. A city walk with eleven info panels guides you through historically relevant buildings and sights, such as the Wine Toll, Mozart Hall, and the Saint Laurenz Church. Don't miss the impressive Ybbs Old Town itself, which offers good accommodation and places to stop for refreshments.

Are there any natural attractions or gorges to visit near Ybbs an der Donau?

Yes, the region is known for its beautiful natural gorges. The most popular is Erlauf Gorge, a wild and romantic natural monument featuring a beautiful interplay of wood, stone, and water. Another notable natural attraction in the vicinity is the Ysperklamm (Ysper Gorge), which also offers a scenic experience with the Große Ysper river flowing through it.

What cultural experiences does Ybbs an der Donau offer?

Ybbs an der Donau provides several cultural insights. You can delve into the town's maritime past at the Schiffahrtsmuseum (Shipping Museum), which showcases the era of steamboats and river trade. For cycling enthusiasts, the Ybbs Bicycle Museum (Fahrradmuseum Ybbs) offers a journey through cycling history with an extensive collection of old bicycles. The town also hosts the annual Ybbsiade, a cabaret and performing arts festival.

What are the best viewpoints in the area?

The area around Ybbs an der Donau offers several scenic viewpoints. From the Danube Cycle Path near Krummnussbaum, you can enjoy a particularly beautiful View of Maria Taferl, with its distinctive pilgrimage church. Another excellent spot is the View of Persenbeug Castle, offering impressive vistas of the historic castle prominently situated above the Danube.

Are there family-friendly activities around Ybbs an der Donau?

Many attractions in Ybbs an der Donau are suitable for families. Exploring the historic Ybbs Old Town on foot is a pleasant activity for all ages. Natural sites like Erlauf Gorge offer paths for family walks, and the Danube River Promenade is perfect for leisurely strolls or cycling. The Ybbs Bicycle Museum also provides an engaging experience for children and adults alike.

What cycling opportunities are available near Ybbs an der Donau?

Ybbs an der Donau is a hub for cyclists, especially along the famous Danube Cycle Path (Donauradweg), which passes directly through the town. For more specific routes, you can explore various options like the 'Donau-Schatz-Tour' or the 'Ybbstal Cycle Path'. You can find detailed information and routes for different cycling styles, including road cycling and touring, on the Cycling around Ybbs an der Donau guide.

Are there hiking trails or walking paths in the region?

Yes, the area offers diverse hiking and walking opportunities. You can enjoy leisurely strolls along the Danube River Promenade or explore more challenging routes like the 'Panoramarunde Ybbs,' which provides extensive views of the Danube River and the Ybbs-Persenbeug power plant. The Nibelungengau long-distance hiking trail also passes through the area. For a unique natural experience, hike through the Erlauf Gorge.

What are some notable castles or historical buildings to see?

Beyond the historic Old Town, you can visit Persenbeug Castle, a prominently situated castle on a rock above the Danube with a history dating back to 907 AD. While not directly in Ybbs, nearby excursions include the famous Melk Abbey, a magnificent Baroque abbey, and Artstetten Castle, both easily accessible from Ybbs an der Donau.

What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Ybbs an der Donau?

Visitors frequently praise the stunning natural beauty and well-maintained paths, especially along the Danube Cycle Path, which offers beautiful views of landmarks like Maria Taferl. The wild and romantic atmosphere of Erlauf Gorge is also highly recommended for its unique hiking experience. The historical charm of Ybbs Old Town and the impressive views of castles like Persenbeug are also highlights for many.

Are there any wheelchair-accessible attractions in Ybbs an der Donau?

The View of Maria Taferl from the Danube cycle path near Krummnussbaum is noted as wheelchair accessible, as the Danube Cycle Path itself is very well maintained and paved. While specific accessibility details for all attractions are not available, the flat and well-developed Danube River Promenade offers an accessible way to enjoy the riverside views.

What is the best time of year to visit Ybbs an der Donau?

The period from April to October is generally ideal for visiting Ybbs an der Donau, especially for outdoor activities. The Ybbs Bicycle Museum is open during these months, and the warmer weather is perfect for cycling along the Danube Cycle Path, hiking in the gorges, and enjoying the river promenade. Summer also brings the annual Ybbsiade festival, adding a cultural highlight to your visit.

Can I find mountain biking trails near Ybbs an der Donau?

Yes, there are mountain biking trails available in the vicinity of Ybbs an der Donau. You can find routes that offer diverse terrain and scenic views, such as the 'Ybbs-Persenbeug Lock – Peace Cross at Reitern loop'. For a comprehensive list of trails and their difficulty levels, refer to the MTB Trails around Ybbs an der Donau guide.

Most popular routes around Ybbs an der Donau

Cycling around Ybbs an der Donau

Most popular attractions around Ybbs an der Donau

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DunkelsteinerwaldHofamt PrielNöchlingSt. OswaldDunkelsteinerwaldSankt Martin-KarlsbachEmmersdorf an der DonauSchönbühel-AggsbachRaxendorfYspertalMaria TaferlSt. Leonhard am ForstMünichreith-LaimbachWeitenMarbach an der DonauSchollachPöggstallArtstetten-PöbringKlein-PöchlarnPöchlarnLoosdorfWeinsberger WaldDorfstettenPersenbeug-GottsdorfHürmLeibenNeumarkt an der YbbsKirnberg an der MankMankBerglandZelking-MatzleinsdorfRuprechtshofenErlaufPetzenkirchenKrummnußbaumGolling an der ErlaufKilbTexingtalBlindenmarktBischofstettenDie Wachau (Buffer Melk)Ostronger Wald

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