Melk on the Danube: landing stages, old town and abbey

Danube landing stages and berth

Melk lies on the Danube at the western end of the Wachau. A shore visit may include three nearby but distinct places: the ship landing on the river, the historic town and the Benedictine Abbey high above the town. The landing is not determined by the name Melk alone. The cruise itinerary’s precise pier is the starting point for planning.

The station operator lists several landings, including station 9 for line services and Donaustation 35 on the right bank at river kilometre 2036.425, north-west of the old town. Not every cruise ship uses station 35. Pedestrians reach the stations from the centre via the lift bridge; vehicles use the Kolomanibrücke across the side channel. The approach differs by pier.

Old town and Melk Abbey

The municipality records Melk’s first documentary mention in 831; the Benedictine monastery was founded in 1089. The Baroque rebuilding of the abbey took place from 1701 to 1736. A short port call does not necessarily allow a full interior visit, so the abbey and old-town walk are separate programme choices.

The historic walk includes Rathausplatz, the town hall and market fountain, and Sterngasse, described by the town as Melk’s oldest street and the only street to survive the 1847 fire. Other points include remains of the town walls, Haus am Stein and the former post office, now the local museum.

Rail and bus access

Rail and bus services meet at Bahnhofplatz. A VOR terminal plan from October 2023 shows four bus stands, A to D, at Melk station. The station, bus terminal and river landing are separate arrival points. The plan is not a current timetable or a promised ship transfer; the actual landing and travel arrangements need to be confirmed.