Things To Do
in Zwettl
Zwettl is a historic town in Lower Austria at the edge of the Waldviertel, known for its centuries-old abbey and well-preserved medieval streets. The town serves as a tranquil base for exploring rolling hills, forests, and river valleys that define the Waldviertel landscape. Cultural highlights include Stift Zwettl, a grand abbey complex, and a lively town center with traditional inns and markets.
Food, outdoors and seasonal festivals showcase local specialties like pumpkin seed oil and hearty Austrian dishes, with a warm, village-scale atmosphere.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Zwettl, where the serene landscape welcomes you with open arms. Spend your morning settling into your accommodation and soaking in the peaceful surroundings. Take a leisurely stroll through the charming streets, breathing in the fresh Alpine air.
After lunch, visit the historic Zwettl Abbey, which dates back to the 12th century. Explore its stunning architecture and extensive gardens, where you can learn about the history of the region. Spend some time enjoying the local shops, perhaps picking up a few handmade crafts.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional local restaurant for an authentic Austrian dinner. Sample regional specialties, paired with local wines, while enjoying the cozy atmosphere. End your evening with a relaxing walk under the starry night sky.
Start your day with a hike in the nearby wooded area, capturing breathtaking views of the Austrian countryside. Take your time to appreciate the flora and fauna, and perhaps pack a picnic to enjoy at a scenic spot. The tranquil sounds of nature will refresh your spirits and energize your day.
In the afternoon, visit the nearby Krems River for some outdoor activities such as cycling or kayaking. Cruise along the beautiful waterways, marveling at the lush landscapes that surround you. Stop at one of the riverside cafes for a refreshing drink.
Return to Zwettl and participate in a local cultural event or festival, if available. Experience the warmth of the community through traditional music and dance. Wind down with a drink at a local pub, reminiscing about your adventurous day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🥖Coffee and pastry | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $90-150 |
| 🍽️Three-course dinner for two | $45-70 |
| 🚆Public transportation day pass | $4-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Charming medieval core and abbey
- Beautiful Waldviertel countryside with easy day trips
- Friendly locals and authentic Austrian cuisine
- Relaxed pace and safe, walkable streets
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options in town
- Limited public transport outside the town; car often helpful
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Ich bin Vegetarier" - I am a vegetarian
- "Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?" - Could you repeat that, please?
Places to Visit in Zwettl
Visit one of these nice places.
Imposing Baroque church, ancient cloister, and library buildings provide dramatic architectural photography and quiet interior shots.
Historic façades, colorful gables and a traditional market fountain make for atmospheric street photography.
The bend of the Kamp River with willow banks offers tranquil water reflections and rural scenery, especially at sunset.
Rolling forests, fields and rural farmsteads provide wide-angle landscape shots across the surrounding hills.
Food in Zwettl
Zwettl Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Plum dumplings served warm with sugar or breadcrumbs—classic Waldviertel dessert you’ll often find in local restaurants.
Must-Try!
Cabbage-filled turnovers fried or baked, a comforting dish typical in Austrian eateries.
Seeds oil drizzled over rye bread or salads; a quintessential Waldviertel starter or accompaniment.
Venison or game stew featuring forest flavors, popular in autumn and winter menus.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly farmers market offering fresh vegetables, cheeses, breads and regional specialties; a great place to taste local produce.
Local bakeries offer breads, pastries and Kaffeehaus treats; try an apfelstrudel or kaiserschmarrn.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals with 'Grüß Gott' or 'Hallo'; a handshake is common in formal settings.
Punctuality is appreciated; give people personal space and quiet in public areas; avoid loud conversations in churches.
Dress modestly, speak softly, and remove hats in religious settings.
Safety
Tipping in Zwettl
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and cafés, rounding up the bill or leaving about 5-10% is customary if service was good.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small shops may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming orchards and fresh greenery; showers are common, so carry a light rain layer.
Warm days with occasional thunderstorms; perfect for walking and cycling, with long daylight hours.
Golden fields and forest colors; harvest festivals and pumpkin seed oil season; layers recommended.
Cold with possible snow; cozy cafés, markets and winter light offer atmospheric photo opportunities; warm clothing essential.
Zwettl at Night
Hiking in Zwettl
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes along the Kamp river with scenic river views and forest sections.
A series of woodland and hilltop trails offering sweeping views of the Waldviertel countryside.
A scenic loop through pine and beech forests passing small villages and open fields.
Airports
How to reach Zwettl by plane.
The nearest international airport with connections to major European hubs; reachable by rail or road from Zwettl.
Austria’s main international gateway; about a 1.5–2 hour drive/rail ride from Zwettl, with frequent long-haul connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many residents are families attracted by the town’s safe, family-friendly atmosphere.
A significant portion of residents are retirees seeking a quiet lifestyle in the countryside.
Seasonal visitors come for hiking, nature and cultural sites, especially in the summer and autumn.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular team sport, with local clubs and matches that draw community support.
Quiet rural roads and forest trails make for excellent road and mountain biking.
Winters bring Nordic options in nearby hills and forests.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Zwettl.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian visitors can rely on cheese, eggs, seasonal vegetables, soups and salads; ask for Kürbiskernöl on dishes for flavor; communicate by saying 'Ich bin Vegetarier' and specify no meat or fish broth.