History, culture and wine ... this European town ticks all the boxes

Pocket Guide: Melk, Austria

What's good about it? Nestled within Austria's Wachau Valley, on the banks of the Danube River, the charming town of Melk is a serene tapestry of forested slopes, picturesque hillsides and castle ruins.

Best for: Melk Abbey, originally established in the 11th century and later reconstructed in the 18th century, stands as an embodiment of the Austrian baroque architectural style. Embark on an immersive wine-tasting journey in the region. Explore impressive cellars, including those of Erhard Morwald, the fifth-generation Wachau Valley vintner who crafts Viking's distinctive private-label wines.

Best time to visit: Autumn is the most memorable season to explore Melk and the Wachau Valley, especially in mid-late October when the vine leaves turn into a sea of yellow, casting a spell at sunset.