Spitz Cruise Port
Spitz Donaulände River Cruise Pontoons
Spitz, Austria Port
Lower Austria UN/LOCODE ATSPZ Port of call
Spitz Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | Austria |
| Region | Lower Austria |
| UN/LOCODE | ATSPZ |
| Contact | |
| Address | Donaulände, 3620 Spitz, Austria |
| Port phone | +43 2713 2363 |
| Website | www.spitz-wachau.at |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 48.36560, 15.41416 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
River cruise vessels dock at the Spitz pontoons along the Donaulände, which is a 450-meter (0.28-mile) walk to the town square that takes exactly six minutes on level ground. Located in the Wachau Valley of Lower Austria, this UNESCO World Heritage destination serves as a primary stop for ships navigating the Danube River. While the town is compact, the elevation changes are significant once you move away from the riverbank toward the vineyards. You can realistically expect a day centered on viticulture and medieval architecture, but do not assume every vineyard is accessible by foot. Spitz is 18 km (11 miles) west of Krems and approximately 18 km (11 miles) east of Melk Abbey, reachable in 20 minutes by road or local rail. Visitors to Spitz are consistently advised that the 'Thousand Bucket Hill' is rewarding, but the Hinterhaus ruins are best approached with sturdy footwear. This is a dedicated river cruise port with no deep-water ocean access, designed for the slow-paced exploration of the Austrian wine country. Your success here depends on timing your walk to avoid the midday sun on the exposed vineyard slopes.
Spitz — Port Overview
History
Spitz traces its documented history back to 830 AD, when the Bavarian monastery of Niederaltaich received the 'Spiz' estate as a gift from King Louis the German. For nearly a millennium, the town functioned as a critical Bavarian enclave within the Austrian duchy, a political anomaly that protected its lucrative wine-growing privileges. The strategic importance of the Danube River ensured that Spitz became a hub for salt trade and viticulture, with the 13th-century Hinterhaus Castle serving as the primary defensive sentinel overlooking the river bend. By the late 15th century, the Teisenhoferhof was expanded into a fortified merchant courtyard to protect residents during the Ottoman threats. The specific architectural footprint you see today, characterized by the Late Gothic St. Mauritius Church (finished circa 1500), reflects the wealth generated by the 'Tausendeimerberg' or 'Hill of a Thousand Buckets.' This name originates from the mountain's legendary ability to produce 1,000 buckets of wine—approximately 56,000 liters—even in lean years. Archival records from the Lower Austria provincial archives confirm that the town's layout has remained largely unchanged since the 16th century, allowing visitors to walk the same cobblestone patterns used by medieval vintners.
The Verdict
The clients who get the most from a Spitz port call are those who arrive with a plan to handle the vineyard inclines and the flexibility to enjoy a slow wine tasting. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. In the Wachau Valley, the best memories are found just one terrace above the crowds.
Things to Do & See in Spitz
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Mauritius Church | Cultural Site | Kirchenplatz 1, 3620 Spitz, Austria | +43 2713 2260 | Daily 08:00–18:00 | Not available | Free |
| Teisenhoferhof Courtyard | Historical Site | Kremser Strasse 5, 3620 Spitz, Austria | +43 2713 2363 | May to October, 10:00–16:00 | teisenhoferhof.at | EUR €5.00 |
| Tausendeimerberg Viewpoint | Natural Feature | Marktplatz Trailhead, 3620 Spitz, Austria | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| Hinterhaus Castle Ruins | Historical Site | Hinterhaus 1, 3620 Spitz, Austria | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free | |
| Red Gate (Rotes Tor) | Landmark | Rotes Tor Weg, 3620 Spitz, Austria | Open 24 hours | Not available | Free |
St. Mauritius Church · Cultural Site
FreeThis church is the spiritual anchor of the Wachau, standing since the late 1400s. Unlike many Austrian churches that were 'Barockized' with heavy gold and cherubs, St. Mauritius retains its austere Late Gothic dignity. Visitors are drawn here specifically to see the Apostles' Altar, which was salvaged from a nearby monastery. The slanted floor was an intentional engineering choice to follow the bedrock of the hill. It is a quiet, contemplative space that feels worlds away from the tour bus crowds of Melk. Spend twenty minutes here looking at the stained glass; it creates a light play on the stone that most visitors rush past. It provides a genuine sense of the medieval wealth that wine once brought to this specific Danube River bend.
Kirchenplatz 1, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·+43 2713 2260 ·Daily 08:00–18:00 ·Not available
Teisenhoferhof Courtyard · Historical Site
EUR €5.00Originally built in 1335 and expanded during the Renaissance, the Teisenhoferhof is one of the most beautiful secular buildings in Lower Austria. The arcaded courtyard was designed for defense but feels like an Italian palazzo. It now houses the Wachau Wine Museum, which is the best place to understand the physical toll of terrace farming. You will see massive 18th-century wine presses that required six men to operate. This stop gives you a deep appreciation for the bottle of Riesling you will likely drink later. Even if you don't go into the museum, the courtyard itself is a masterclass in Renaissance proportion and stonecraft.
Kremser Strasse 5, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·+43 2713 2363 ·May to October, 10:00–16:00 ·www.teisenhoferhof.at
Tausendeimerberg Viewpoint · Natural Feature
FreeThe 'Thousand Bucket Hill' is the heart of Spitz. It is a pyramid of rock and vine rising directly from the town center. The walk to the first major panoramic point takes about 12 minutes from the Market Square. From here, you can see the Danube River winding toward Dürnstein and the meticulously maintained dry-stone walls. These walls are held together by gravity alone—no mortar—a technique that earned this region its UNESCO status. Walking here is a sensory experience of shale, sun, and the scent of ripening grapes. It delivers the essential 'Wachau moment' that every traveler seeks.
Marktplatz Trailhead, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Hinterhaus Castle Ruins · Historical Site
FreeWatching over the Danube for 800 years, Hinterhaus is the quintessential medieval ruin. It was never 'Disney-fied'; it remains a rugged shell of stone and history. You can explore the ramparts, the keep, and the residential quarters. Those who make the climb consistently report that the view from the top of the keep is superior to any other in the valley. It feels visceral and real. You can touch the 13th-century masonry and see how the fortress was integrated into the rock. It delivers a sense of isolation and power that modern viewpoints cannot match.
Hinterhaus 1, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Red Gate (Rotes Tor) · Landmark
FreeThe Red Gate is the last of the town's medieval gates. It stands alone on the ridge above the town, framing the Spitz church and the Danube River in a perfect stone arch. The hike through the vineyards to get here is as rewarding as the destination. This route is known to challenge most tourists, but persistence may result in having the gate to yourself. The 'red' name comes from a bloody defense against Swedish troops in 1645. Today, it is the most peaceful spot in the Wachau. It delivers the perfect 'farewell' view to the town before you head back to your ship.
Rotes Tor Weg, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·Open 24 hours ·Not available
Eating & Drinking in Spitz
The culinary identity of Spitz is inseparable from the Danube River and the apricot orchards. The 'Wachauer Marille' (apricot) is a protected designation; you will find it in everything from schnapps to the famous Marillenknödel. These dumplings are made with a light curd dough, never potato, which distinguishes them from versions in Vienna. For drinking, the 'Vinea Wachau' classification system is your guide: Steinfeder (light), Federspiel (medium), and Smaragd (complex/heavy). Locals drink 'Gespritzter' (wine with sparkling water) during the heat of the day. You'll find genuine street food at local butchers (Metzgerei) where a 'Leberkassemmel' (warm meatloaf roll) costs under €4.00 (~$4.50 USD). One honest note: tourists expect sweet wines because of the 'Riesling' name, but Wachau Rieslings are bone-dry and high in acidity. Do not ask for 'sweet' unless you want to be directed to the dessert wine list.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gasthof Prankl | Hinterhaus 16, 3620 Spitz, Austria | +43 2713 2288 | Thu-Mon 11:30–14:30 & 18:00–21:00 | gasthof-prankl.at | €30.00–€55.00 (~$35.00–$63.00 USD) |
| Weingut & Heuriger Lagler | Am Jauerling 33, 3620 Spitz, Austria | +43 2713 2341 | Daily 10:00–18:00 (Seasonal) | weingut-lagler.at | €15.00–€25.00 (~$17.00–$29.00 USD) |
| Barrique Wine Bar | Marktplatz 5, 3620 Spitz, Austria | +43 2713 2244 | Daily 11:00–22:00 | goldenesschiff.at | €6.00–€12.00 per glass (~$7.00–$14.00 USD) |
Gasthof Prankl
€30.00–€55.00 (~$35.00–$63.00 USD)Order the apricot dumplings here—they are the benchmark for the entire region. The restaurant sits right at the base of the Hinterhaus ruins with a terrace overlooking the Danube River. It is family-run, and the service is professional without being stiff. One honest limitation: you must book at least 48 hours in advance for a terrace table during cruise season.
Hinterhaus 16, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·+43 2713 2288 ·Thu-Mon 11:30–14:30 & 18:00–21:00
Weingut & Heuriger Lagler
€15.00–€25.00 (~$17.00–$29.00 USD)This is where you go for a classic 'Heuriger' experience. You sit among the vines and eat cold, high-quality local produce. Order the Federspiel Riesling; it is crisp, dry, and perfect for a warm afternoon. It’s a 10-minute uphill walk from the square, which keeps the less-mobile crowds away. One honest caveat: they do not serve hot meals.
Am Jauerling 33, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·+43 2713 2341 ·Daily 10:00–18:00 (Seasonal)
Barrique Wine Bar
€6.00–€12.00 per glass (~$7.00–$14.00 USD)The Barrique is the right place for a glass of wine if you want to stay in the town center. They serve a curated selection of the best Vinea Wachau producers. The outdoor seating in the square is perfect for people-watching. Locals come here for an 'Achterl' (an eighth of a liter) after work. It delivers a sophisticated wine experience without the hike.
Marktplatz 5, 3620 Spitz, Austria ·+43 2713 2244 ·Daily 11:00–22:00
Getting There & Around
Once you leave the Danube River bank, walking is the primary method of exploration. The town is small enough that no internal transit is needed for the Market Square or the Wine Museum. For regional travel, the Wachau Bus (WL1) runs hourly between Krems and Melk, costing €2.70 (~$3.00 USD) per zone. Buy tickets directly from the driver with cash. Uber does not operate in Spitz; you must rely on local taxi services like Taxi Bernhard, which should be booked at least 30 minutes in advance. Bike rentals are highly recommended for the flat Danube Cycle Path; visit Nextbike stations near the station for app-based rentals at €1.00 (~$1.15 USD) per 30 minutes. One navigation tip most guides omit: the trail to the Hinterhaus ruins begins behind the Gasthof Goldenes Schiff—look for the small yellow hiking sign, not the main road signs, which lead you the long way around.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in Spitz
St. Mauritius Parish Church
9:00 AM (30 min)
This Late Gothic masterpiece features the 'Apostles' Altar' and unique slanted floor to accommodate the hill's natural slope. Look for the carved stone pulpit from 1520.
- Walk from cruise pier via Hauptstrasse. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look at the exterior wall for the 'Ell' measure—a medieval iron bar used by merchants to verify fabric lengths.
Teisenhoferhof & Wine Museum
9:45 AM (60 min)
A Renaissance courtyard with stunning arcades. The museum houses traditional Wachau costumes and historical wine-making equipment, including massive wooden presses.
- 2-minute walk from the church. (Free)
- Entry: €5.00 ($5.75)
- Skip the ground floor gift shop and head to the upper balcony for the best view of the 'Sgraffito' wall decorations.
Tausendeimerberg Walk
11:00 AM (45 min)
Walk the lower terraces of the Hill of a Thousand Buckets. You'll see the dry-stone walls that make this viticulture possible.
- Directly adjacent to the square. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The first 100 meters are paved; once it turns to gravel, the view doesn't change much. Turn back there if your footwear is light.
Lunch Recommendation
Gasthof Prankl
While tourists crowd the Market Square, locals head here for the terrace views of the river and a kitchen that holds a 'Haube' (chef's hat) award for quality.
Order: Wachauer Kalbsbeuschel (Veal lights in sauce), Original Marillenknödel (Apricot dumplings)
Hinterhaus 16, 3620 Spitz, Austria
Cost: €35.00 (~$40.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in Spitz
Hinterhaus Castle Ruins
9:00 AM (90 min)
A 12th-century fortress that is remarkably well-preserved for a ruin. You can climb the tower for a 360-degree view of the Danube River bend.
- 15-minute walk from the pier. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- The 'Dark Tower' is best avoided if you have claustrophobia; the exterior ramparts offer better views anyway.
Red Gate (Rotes Tor)
11:00 AM (60 min)
The last remaining gate of the medieval town wall. Legend says it was stained red during the Swedish invasion of the Thirty Years' War.
- 20-minute uphill hike from Hinterhaus base. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- This is the most iconic 'window' view of Spitz; frame the church tower within the gate arch for the perfect photo.
Getting back to the ship
The latest safe departure time from the Spitz Market Square is 45 minutes before your ship's scheduled 'All Aboard' time. While the walk is only 6 minutes, the pontoons can be crowded with departing tours. A taxi from the Hinterhaus district back to the pier costs €12.00 (~$14.00 USD) and takes 4 minutes. If you are using the WL1 bus from Melk, allow a 30-minute buffer as the B3 road frequently experiences delays during harvest season. If you miss the ship, contact the Spitz Port Authority at +43 2713 2363. The next accessible port is usually Dürnstein (6 km / 4 miles east) or Krems, which is a €35.00 (~$40.00 USD) taxi ride. Ships will generally not hold for independent passengers.
Weather & Best Time to Visit Spitz
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: April through October
15°C–28°C (59°F–82°F). Rainfall is moderate, usually appearing as short afternoon thunderstorms in July.
What to wear: Layers are essential as the river breeze can be cool even in summer. Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes—the cobblestones will punish thin-soled sandals. Sun protection is vital for vineyard walks. At religious sites like St. Mauritius, modest dress (shoulders covered) is respected but not strictly enforced for quick entries.
Weather risks: Occasional river fog in early morning can delay docking; heavy summer rain can make vineyard paths muddy and slick.
Early May offers the apricot blossoms, while late September provides the most activity in the vineyards.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–August) | Hot, dry, and exceptionally bright on the vineyard terraces. | The exposed dry-stone paths on Tausendeimerberg reach temperatures exceeding 35°C (95°F). Dehydration risk is high as there is zero shade on the upper terraces. | Vineyard hiking trails and the upper courtyard of the Teisenhoferhof. | Hike before 9:30 AM. Wear wide-brimmed hats and carry at least 1 liter of water from the ship; public fountains are sparse once you leave the square. |
| Spring and Autumn (April–May, Sept–Oct) | Mild with occasional river mist and crisp mornings. | Wet morning dew makes the grass-covered paths near the Hinterhaus ruins and the Red Gate extremely slippery. | Hinterhaus Castle ascent and the Spitzer Graben trails. | Wear shoes with deep lug soles (hiking shoes, not sneakers). The stone steps of the castle ruins do not have modern railings in all sections. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
Locals in Spitz greet each other with a firm 'Grüß Gott' (God greet you), which is more formal and respectful than the casual 'Servus' used in Vienna. In a Heuriger, it is normal to share long wooden tables with strangers; simply ask 'Ist dieser Platz noch frei?' (Is this seat free?). When dining, wait for everyone to be served and say 'Mahlzeit' or 'Guten Appetit' before starting. Splitting a dish is perfectly acceptable in casual inns but frowned upon in fine-dining spots like Prankl. Photography is generally welcomed, but always ask before photographing people in traditional 'Tracht' (costumes). Tipping is expected but not at American levels; round up the bill or add 5-10%—tell the server the total amount you want to pay as they take the money. One common misunderstanding: do not clink glasses of beer with glasses of wine; in Austria, you only clink 'like with like,' and always maintain eye contact while doing so, or you’ll be cursed with seven years of bad luck (so the legend goes).
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the full day on the flat riverside promenade. |
Attempting to hike to Hinterhaus ruins in sandals or flip-flops. |
Assuming all wineries (Heurige) are open every day. |
Buying 'Wachau Wine' at the first shop near the pier. |
Practical tips
Local currency is the Euro (€). While restaurants and larger shops accept Visa and Mastercard, the smaller Heurige (wine taverns) and farm stalls are strictly cash-only—always carry at least €40.00 (~$46.00 USD) in cash. Tipping norm is to round up to the nearest €5.00 for taxis and 10% for seated dining. Five useful phrases: 'Grüß Gott' (Formal Hello), 'Danke' (Thank you), 'Bitte' (Please), 'Die Rechnung, bitte' (The bill, please), and 'Achterl' (the standard 1/8L wine pour). Scam patterns are almost non-existent in Spitz, but be wary of 'unlabeled' apricot schnapps sold in plastic bottles—they are often low-quality moonshine. For St. Mauritius Church, avoid visiting during Sunday Mass (09:00–10:00) unless attending the service. The best time to visit the Tausendeimerberg is early morning to avoid the 'wall of heat' that reflects off the dry-stone terraces after 11:00 AM.
Cruise Lines Visiting Spitz
Port of Call
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FAQ — Spitz
Where is the nearest ATM to the cruise dock in Spitz?
There are no ATMs directly at the river pontoons. The nearest is the Raiffeisenbank located at Hauptstrasse 12, which is a 450-meter (0.28-mile) walk from the ship. It takes approximately 6 minutes on level ground. The ATM is accessible 24 hours a day and accepts all major international cards. It is a good idea to withdraw at least €50.00 (~$58.00 USD) as many local wine taverns in Spitz do not accept credit cards.
Are shops and wineries in Spitz open on Sundays?
Most retail shops in Spitz are closed on Sundays due to Austrian labor laws. However, many Heurige (wine taverns) and the Teisenhoferhof museum remain open. Specifically, the Wine Museum is open 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on Sundays from May to October. Expect restaurants like Gasthof Prankl to be very busy with local families, so a reservation for Sunday lunch is mandatory. Most 'farm gate' apricot stalls remain open to cater to weekend hikers. It is well established that Sundays are actually the best time for atmosphere, provided you don't need a supermarket.
How much does the ferry from Spitz to Arnsdorf cost?
The 'Rollfähre' (reaction ferry) that crosses the Danube River to Arnsdorf costs €2.50 (~$3.00 USD) for a one-way adult ticket. It is a unique experience as the boat uses only the river's current and a cable to cross. The crossing takes approximately 5 minutes. The ferry runs roughly every 15 minutes during daylight hours. This is an excellent way to see the 'Thousand Bucket Hill' from the opposite bank for a different photographic perspective. This for passengers who want a short is recommended, low-cost river experience.
Is there a public restroom at the Hinterhaus Castle ruins?
No, there are zero facilities including restrooms or water fountains at the Hinterhaus ruins. The nearest public restroom is back in the town center at the Tourist Information office, a 15-minute walk from the base of the castle hill. The climb takes about 10 minutes of steep incline; you should ensure you use the facilities at the pier or the Gasthof Goldenes Schiff before beginning your ascent. Passengers frequently note this as the most important logistical detail for this specific site.
How much should I expect to pay for a taxi from Spitz to Melk Abbey?
A one-way taxi fare from Spitz to Melk Abbey typically costs between €45.00 and €55.00 (~$52.00–$63.00 USD). The journey takes approximately 20 to 25 minutes along the B3 road. Taxis are not stationed at the pier and must be pre-ordered by phone or via the Tourist Information desk. If you are a party of four, this is often more efficient than waiting for the hourly WL1 bus. Always confirm the price with the driver before departing.
Can I ship wine purchased in Spitz directly to the United States?
Direct shipping of wine from a small Spitz winery to the USA is difficult and expensive due to US customs laws. Most local producers like Weingut Lagler do not offer direct overseas shipping. Expect to pay roughly €150.00 (~$172.00 USD) in shipping and fees for a case of 12 bottles. A more realistic option is to buy 'wine skins' (protective sleeves) and pack 1–2 bottles in your checked luggage for the flight home. Ensure you check your airline's weight limits first. Specialized wine shippers in Krems can be recommended for larger orders.
What does a bike rental cost in Spitz for a few hours?
Nextbike app-based rentals are available near the Spitz train station and cost €1.00 (~$1.15 USD) per 30 minutes, or a maximum of €15.00 (~$17.00 USD) for 24 hours. For high-quality trekking bikes or e-bikes, visit Bernhardt Bike Rental near the pier; e-bikes typically cost €35.00 (~$40.00 USD) for a full day. The Danube Cycle Path is almost entirely flat and very safe for seniors. Visitors should cycle the 6 km (4 miles) to Dürnstein, which takes about 25 minutes at a leisurely pace.
How long does it take to hike to the top of Tausendeimerberg?
To reach the primary summit viewpoint of the 'Hill of a Thousand Buckets,' allow 25 to 30 minutes for the ascent from the Market Square. While the distance is short (under 1 km), the elevation gain is nearly 100 meters (328 feet). The path is mostly paved but steep. This route is timed such that most travelers aged 60+ may want to stop at the first major terrace after 12 minutes, where the view is already spectacular.
Is the 'Mariandl' museum in Spitz worth a visit?
The Mariandl Museum (Schloss Spitz) is dedicated to the 1961 film 'Mariandl' and local film history. Entry is €6.00 (~$7.00 USD). It is only worth the time if you are a fan of mid-century German-language cinema or local folklore. Most international cruise passengers find it too niche and prefer spending their limited time at the Wine Museum or in the vineyards. It is a 10-minute flat walk from the pier. It is worth skipping this in favor of the Teisenhoferhof for better historical value.
What is the typical opening time for the Wine Museum in Spitz?
The Wine Museum at Teisenhoferhof is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily from May 1st to October 31st. It is closed during the winter months. The entry fee is €5.00 (~$5.75 USD). If your ship docks at 8:00 AM, it is best to visit the St. Mauritius Church first, as the museum will not open for two hours. It is well established that the best time to avoid group tours is immediately at 10:00 AM.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.