About this experience
In the charming Burgenland, you will learn how the mosaic of Austrian, Slovak, and Hungarian cultures emerged. Visit one of the most beautiful castles in the country, taste the famous cake named after the dukes, and explore the region's winemaking traditions. You will also visit a local winemaker and cross Austria's largest plain lake.
What to Expect
Unique and always borderland Burgenland
Along the way from Vienna, you will learn about the times of the first Celtic settlements and the era of Roman rule when the Danube served as the border between uncharted lands and the empire. We will talk about the formation of the 'frontier' life of the already Austrian margraviate and the present location of Burgenland, bordering Slovakia, Hungary, and Slovenia. As a result, you will discover a completely different Austria - a region that, thanks to its border location, has acquired a remarkable cultural diversity.
Austrian palace and the Esterhazy family
Upon arriving in Burgenland, your first stop will be the region's capital - Eisenstadt. In the magnificent Esterhazy Palace, you will hear about the ancient Austro-Hungarian princely family and easily imagine the atmosphere of balls and concerts of the 18th century. I will tell you about the famous composer Joseph Haydn, who lived and worked in Eisenstadt during that period and was the Kapellmeister of the Esterhazy family. Later, during a stroll through the authentic streets of the city, you will be able to taste the renowned cake named after the dukes.
Winemaking capital - tastings and a journey on the lake
Then, passing by the vineyards of Burgenland, you will head to the shore of Lake Neusiedl and the town of Rust, the winemaking capital of the region listed on UNESCO's World Heritage list. After a short stroll, you will visit a local winemaker's cellar, where you will taste several traditional wines and get a brief overview of the region's winemaking history. In the summer, you can also take a small boat ride from the Rust pier to the opposite shore of Lake Neusiedl, to Podersdorf. In winter, you will travel along the lake's shore by bus. In this romantic spot near the lighthouse, your journey will come to a close. Before heading back to Vienna, you will have time to swim in the lake in good weather or have lunch in a restaurant with a beautiful view of the surroundings.
Who Is This Tour For
Travelers who want to leisurely and tastefully explore the amazing region of Burgenland, discovering the uncharted side of Austria.
Organizational Details
How the Tour Goes
- I will meet you at your hotel in Vienna and take you back after the tour.
- Departure is around 8:30, with a return around 19:00.
- The timing and sequence of visiting attractions can be adjusted according to your preferences.
What's Included and What's Not
- Included: transfer on a comfortable minibus, tours of Esterhazy Palace, Eisenstadt, and Rust town with a wine tasting.
- Additional fees apply for: entrance tickets to Esterhazy Palace (12 euros), boat ride (9 euros), and personal expenses in cafes - traditional Esterhazy cake in one of the cafes in Eisenstadt, traditional Austrian cuisine in a restaurant in Rust town.
