Some of the attendees of the Joint Meeting 2025 will travel from far away destinations to Vienna, Austria. We organized, also for those who have been to vienna before, three optional side events.

The side events Vienna City tour and Abbey Melk will be organized by a professional Vienna guide. If you or your guest would like to book additional tours in Vienna or around, you can contact this company. Peter, the boss, will join us for the WU´s welcome reception to give us a short overview of Vienna. You will meet him there and can talk to him individually. Have a look at his websites:

https://www.wienguide.net/vienna-guide-english/

WU Campus and Library and Learning Center:

Internationalism, innovation, diversity – the new Campus WU is the concrete realization of WU’s vision for a modern university. The fundamental principles of the new architecture reflect the values and ideas we cherish at WU.

The architecture of Campus WU is not only popular with visitors, it also receives accolades from the juries of national and international architecture competitions. The buildings on Campus WU were designed by six internationally renowned architects.

Sustainability – including economical, ecological, and social aspects – was a main priority in the planning and construction of Campus WU. In 2019 WU’s campus became Austria’s first climate neutral university campus.

The WU Campus was opened in October 2013, so it has been there for almost 12 years. We will guide you through this amazing campus and the heart building, the Library and Learning Center by Zaha Hadid.

The tour is free and will be guided by local campus management and library staff.

Thursday May 22, 2025

Vienna City Walk:

The tour will start from the WU after lunch at 1:30 pm and will last approximately 2 hours. The guides will pick us up at the WU and we will travel together by public transport in smaller groups in a few minutes to the Vienna City. The tour price is € 35 and can also be booked for guests.

Tour description:

A Symphony of Vienna's Splendors
Welcome to Vienna, the city where every step echoes with the melody of history and cultural grandeur. Our walking tour takes you on a harmonious journey through some of Vienna's most iconic landmarks, beginning with the majestic Vienna State Opera.

Vienna State Opera
Our adventure kicks off at the Vienna State Opera, a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture. Admire the grand façade and learn about the operatic history that has graced its stages. As we delve into the heart of Vienna, the Opera House sets the stage for the city's artistic and cultural richness.

Hofburg Palace
Our next destination is the opulent Hofburg Palace. This imperial residence, with its vast complex, has witnessed centuries of Habsburg rule. Explore the Imperial face of Vienna, gaining insights into the lives of emperors and empresses who once walked these halls.

Stroll along Kohlmarkt and Graben
Embark on a leisurely stroll along Kohlmarkt and Graben, Vienna's renowned shopping streets. Immerse yourself in the elegant atmosphere, where history and modernity seamlessly intertwine. Admire the architectural gems, boutique shops, and street performers that bring these lively streets to life.

St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom)
Our tour crescendos at St. Stephen's Cathedral, the symbolic heart of Vienna. The vibrant Stephansplatz, surrounded by shops and cafes, offers the perfect backdrop for concluding our journey.
As you conclude this walking tour, you'll carry the melodies of Vienna's cultural symphony with you, from the grandeur of the Vienna State Opera to the historic charm of St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Friday May 23, 2025

Full day excursion to Abbey Melk with special library visit and UNESCO heritage Danube Valley:

If at least 18 people book this tour the tour price is € 110 including transport, entrée fee in Melk and the boat ticket from Melk to Spitz in the Danube Valley. Guests can book this tour as well.

Tour Description:

Embark on a luxurious day tour from Vienna to the picturesque Danube Valley, a region steeped in history, vineyards, and architectural wonders. Your private adventure begins with a chauffeured pick-up in a luxury car, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.

Stop 1: Melk Abbey
Our first  highlight is the magnificent Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the opulent baroque architecture, the world famous library, and the stunning gardens. Your guide will share the history of this iconic abbey, providing insights into its cultural and religious significance.

Optional: Boat Cruise from Spitz to Melk - just as you like!

For those seeking an extra touch of romance and scenic beauty, opt for a boat cruise from Spitz to Melk. Drift along the Danube, passing through enchanting landscapes and picturesque villages. Your guide will coordinate the logistics, ensuring a seamless transition to the next leg of the journey.

Scenic Lunch Stop: Local Danube Valley Restaurant Take a break for a scenic lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant. Enjoy a delicious meal while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Danube Valley. Whether it's a terrace overlooking the river or a charming spot amidst vineyards, this will be a perfect opportunity to relax and savor regional cuisine.

Stop 2: Wine Tasting at a Local Vineyard (Donauhof in Spitz)
Next, indulge in the flavors of the region with a visit to a local vineyard. Experience a private wine tasting session, sampling some of the finest wines produced in the Danube Valley. Learn about the winemaking traditions and savor the unique character of each vintage.

Stop 3: Dürnstein Ruin
Our final  destination is the charming town of Dürnstein. Enjoy a leisurely walk up to the Dürnstein Ruin, offering panoramic views of the Danube River and the surrounding vineyards. Learn about the medieval history of the town, including the imprisonment of Richard the Lionheart.

Return to Vienna
As your Danube Delights tour concludes, relax in the comfort of your luxury bus during the scenic drive back to Vienna. Your guide will ensure a smooth return, dropping you off at your preferred location.
This exclusive day tour promises a perfect blend of history, nature and exquisite flavors, all within the enchanting backdrop of the Danube Valley. Enjoy every moment of this curated journey!

Duration 8 hours totally private,

   • Pick up from your hotel
   • private tour with guide & Minivan or Limousine
   • private guided tour in Dürnstein
   • walk to Dürnstein ruin
   • wine tasting
   • visit to Spitz
   • visit to Melk abbey and guided tour inside
   • optional boat ride from Spitz to Melk
   • Drop off at your hotel