Wine Tasting and Vineyard Hopping in Stellenbosch, South Africa

My last full day in South Africa finished off with a bang. I may not be much of a wine connoisseur, but at the same time I couldn't think of a better way to spend my last day in the country than driving around Stellenbosch, sampling wines, and eating braai, chocolates and biltong. Mention food and drink and I'm there!
After 3 weeks of fast-paced backpacking across South Africa, Sam and I were craving a relaxed day to indulge in a few earthly pleasures, so we joined Wine Flies Wine Tours for an outing that would have made Bacchus very, very proud.
Wine Tourism in Stellenbosch, South Africa
Fairview

The morning started off with a visit to Fairview, where we sampled 6 different wines paired with different cheeses. Now, I may not know much about wine, but I'm a huge cheese enthusiast, so the morning was off to a great start in my books.
We sampled Sauvignon Blanc with Camembert, Chenin Blanc with Feta, Viognier with Cambazola, Mourvèdre with a White Rock cranberry cheese that tasted more like cheesecake, and a few more pairings that delighted my taste buds.

My favourite wine at Fairview was the Sweet Red, which tasted like Christmas in a bottle. Sweet dessert wines are right up my alley.
Muratie

From there, we continued on to Muratie, which was perhaps the most historic looking vineyard we visited that day.
Muratie felt frozen in time - crooked rooms filled with antique furniture, cobwebs draped across stained glass windows, and walls filled with paintings by one of its former owners. These were just a few of the details that added to its charm.
After sampling a few different bottles, we learned that this particular vineyard also happened to be the setting of a beautiful love story between Ansela, a slave girl born in the Cape, and Laurens, a German soldier in the service of the Dutch East Indian Company. Since Ansela was a slave, Laurens would regularly set on 3 day treks to come and visit her in the Slave Quarter in the Cape. This was a journey he completed for years until Ansela was finally released, baptized, and free to join him in Stellebosch.  Today you can still see the oak tree that Ansela planted next to the home and it stands as a symbol of their enduring love. Ansela also has a wine named after her and it's an award-winning bottle.
Middelvlei
By the time we reached Middelvlei, we were all ready for lunch. As soon as we hopped out of the bus we were greeted by an adorable little Dachshund named Grappa who took it upon himself to act as the welcome committee and lead us through the winery with his tiny little steps.

We took some time to tour the winery and learn to pour a glass straight out of the barrel, and from there we made our way downstairs where a giant banquet table had been set up.

On the menu was a delicious braai that included Boerewors (South African sausage), Sosaties (meat on a skewer), and Braaibroodjie (grilled cheese sandwich), with plenty of salads and wine to go around. We finished everything on our plates!

Lovane
Feeling stuffed from the meal and giddy from the wine, we boarded the bus again to continue on towards Lovane.
For some reason at this point our driver also pulled out a collection of funny hats which he passed down the bus. Having now sampled close to 15 different wines, everyone was in high spirits and we all relished the opportunity to dress up.
There were fedoras and cowboy hats, newsboy caps and straw hats embellished with flowers. We must've been quite the sight as we walked through the doors of Lovane.

Down in the basement, we got right down to business by sampling more wine. Here, the wines were paired with different types of chocolate. The two that caught my attention were: a dark chocolate with chilli flakes and a dark chocolate with sea salt. Perhaps not quite what you'd expect when pairing chocolates with wine, but the different flavours worked together wonderfully.
Villiera

Our last stop of the day was at Villiera where we sampled different wines paired with biltong. In case you haven't heard of it, biltong is a dried cured meat similar to beef jerky, except it undergoes a bit of a different curing process. It's usually shaved into thin slices and it is truly addicting.

I have to admit, by the end of the day all the wines and wineries were starting to resemble each other (perhaps a sign of a few too many glasses on my part...), so it's a good thing we called it a day by the time we finished at the fifth vineyard!
Feeling a little buzzed, we all boarded the bus one last time trying not to clink the bags full of red, white and rosé that we had collected along the way. And just like that, the day was over.
I can't say I know my wines much better, but it sure was a great way to experience Stellenbosch!
P.S. You can read about my follow-up trip to Stellenbosch, some of the fun wine pairings, and the unusual winery experiences here!

Practical Sips: How to Plan Your Unforgettable Stellenbosch Wine Ramble

Timing Your Trip – Seasons, Festivals & Barrel Specials

MonthVineyard VibeWhat to Book AheadJan‑FebHigh summer, lush canopies, rosé on ice.Sunset picnics at Warwick & Summer Live concerts at Vergenoegd Löw.Mar‑Apr (Harvest)Bins of cab & pinotage rolling in; grape‑stomping parties.“Harvest Tour” at Spier—includes sorting‑table demo + fresh must tastings.Jun‑AugCool, misty mornings, crackling barrel‑room fires, 2‑for‑1 tastings galore.Red‑blend masterclasses (winter is Bordeaux‑style season).Sep‑OctWildflowers between rows, bud‑burst, mild temps for cycling.Stoep & Style festival + spring cellar‑door releases.Nov‑DecPre‑Christmas buzz, bubbly sabrages, twilight markets.Méthode Cap Classique pairings (Villiera’s safari & fizz combo sells out fast).

Quick math: Most estates pour from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Plan 4–5 stops max. South African drink‑drive limit = 0.05 % BAC (≈ 1 glass). Pre‑book a shuttle or join a tour if you intend on swirling rather than spitting.

Building a Balanced Route

Stellenbosch’s 150‑plus wineries are grouped into five sub‑valleys; weaving adjacent pockets makes logistics, and palate fatigue, easier:

PocketStar VarietalEstate With a TwistHelderberg (sea‑facing)Cabernet Sauvignon with salty mineralityWaterkloof: glass‑box “sky restaurant”, biodynamic farm tour on Percheron horses.SimonsbergFull‑bodied Pinotage & smoky ShirazDelheim: cupcake pairing (granadilla, rooibos, makataan).Bottelary HillsChenin Blanc heavenKaapzicht: pour‑your‑own from family’s 1952 concrete tanks.JonkershoekElegant Merlot, cool eveningsLanzerac: historic cellar where pinotage was first bottled in 1959.Polkadraai HillsExperimental blends, youthful vibeL’Avenir: sabrage lessons at sunset + canoe paddles on the dam.

String three estates in one pocket, then hop to one contrast stop (e.g., start with Helderberg whites, finish on Simonsberg reds and chocolate). Google‑Maps “wineries open” filter is your friend; smaller farms close Sundays.

Not‑So‑Boring Logistics

Transport Hacks

Bike & E‑Bike Loops: Rent from Adventure Shop (R500/day). You’ll conquer 10 km gravel between estates, work up appetite, and sober‑up en route.

Hopper Shuttle: R350 day‑pass, hop every hour on a circular route of 15 wineries—great for indecisive sippers.

Private Rikkis (three‑wheel taxis): Negotiate a day rate (~R1 000 split between four friends).

Tasting Fees & WaiversExpect R60–R120 for 4–6 pours; most refund the fee if you buy two bottles. Bring a small tote or score a six‑pack shipper at the first stop (R45) so you’re not juggling loose glass at sunset.

Shipping Wine HomeStellenbosch Post Office does not – use Wine‑in‑Transit desk at Cape Town Airport. Pack a check‑in wine suitcase (T‑lock foam insert) = cheaper.

Food StrategyBreakfast matters. Kick off with sourdough “bennies” at Schoon on Church Street, then a mid‑route charcuterie board at Jordan or Tokara. Most kitchens close by 15:30.

Pairing Playbook Beyond Cheese

Cheddar + cab is fine, but SA vintners have gone full Willy‑Wonka. Consider booking:

Salami & Shiraz – Yonder Hill: five small‑batch cured meats (think rooibos‑rubbed wagyu) with Rhône‑style reds.

Doughnuts & Dessert Wine – Root44 Market on Saturdays: cinnamon koeksisters matched to semi‑sweet riesling stalls.

Rooibos Tea & Rosé – infusions served chilled at Pink Valley, the Cape’s first rosé‑only cellar.

Bring antihistamines if you’re nut‑sensitive—basil‑pesto or pistachio “bites” pop up unannounced on boards.

Mini‑Experiences to Slot Between Sips

DurationActivityWhy It Rocks40 minSabrage Workshop at Haute CabrièreSwipe a sabre across an MCC bottle, keep the cork as swagger souvenir.25 minCellar Candle Tour at Ken ForresterDescend 6 m into a 17th‑century koelenkamer (cool room) lit only by beeswax tapers.1 hBlend‑Your‑Own Pinotage at MiddelvleiUse pipettes, design a label, cork & take home; no science degree needed.15 minMeet the Goats at FairviewSelfies with the tower‑climbing herd that inspired “Goats‑do‑Roam”.2 h (evening)Braai & Bubbles on Blaauwklippen LawnLocal families grill boerewors; buy a picnic crate + bottle of blanc de noir, watch sun slip behind the Hottentots‑Holland range.

Where to Rest Your Wine‑Weary Head

Splurge – Delaire Graff Lodge: infinity pools facing vineyards, on‑site David Collins art gallery, and cellar tastings delivered to your terrace at dusk.

Mid‑range – The Spier Hotel: riverside rooms, eagle encounters, night‑time “light art” trail. Diners can roam to seven pop‑up food trucks.

Shoestring – Stumble Inn Backpackers: dorm from R260, communal braai zone, free bike loan for harvest volunteers.

Tip: Many estates offer “stay & taste” bundles mid‑week in winter—room + two premium flights for the price of a downtown B&B.

Safe‑Sipping & Eco‑Ethics

Hydrate: One 500 ml bottle of water per tasting; ask for tap—Stellenbosch water is clean.

Spittoons exist for a reason; wine pros “sip, swish, spit” to save palate and liver.

Buy Local Produce: Farm stalls sell olives, honey, and curds; your rands support agri‑workers year‑round, not just harvest.

Respect Vineyard Boundaries: Insta‑pics among rows? Fine—stay on inter‑row grass, avoid snapping shoots.

Tipping: R20–R30 pp acceptable if your host delivers stellar stories (many earn commission on bottle sales only).

Suggested One‑Day Self‑Drive Loop (for confident spitters!)

09:45 – Arrive Delheim (Simonsberg): cupcake pairing breakfast, pet resident Jack Russell.11:15 – Meander 7 km to Muratie: history‑soaked tasting under cobwebs; buy Ansela van de Caab Bordeaux blend.13:00 – Picnic & sauvignon blanc at Warwick; laze under umbrellas by the dam.15:00 – Cross to Middelvlei (Bottelary): blend‑your‑own pinotage. Designated driver switches to homemade ginger beer.16:30 – Sunset MCC & goat nibbles at Fairview. Snap final vineyard golden‑hour shot.18:00 – Uber back to town; braai dinner at Stellenbosch Kitchen if you still have room!

Stellenbosch Wine Tasting FAQ: 12 Practical Q&As (routes, tastings, transport, pairings & pro tips)

What’s the best time of year to go wine tasting in Stellenbosch?

You’ll get sunshine and vineyard buzz in Nov–Feb (summer), harvest action in Mar–Apr, golden leaves and fireplace tastings in Jun–Aug, and new releases plus mild temps in Sep–Oct. Weekdays are quieter; book Saturdays in advance.

How many wineries can I realistically visit in one day?

Four to five is the sweet spot if you want to linger, learn, and enjoy pairings without rushing. Aim for 2 before lunch + 2 after, leaving buffer for a sunset fizz stop.

Do I need to book tastings in advance?

For weekends/holidays and popular estates, yes—especially if you want pairings (cheese/chocolate/biltong) or cellar tours. Midweek, many walk-ins are fine, but call ahead for special experiences (blend-your-own, sabrage, barrel rooms).

How much do tastings cost—and are fees waived with purchases?

Typical flights run R60–R120 for 4–6 pours. Many estates waive or credit the fee if you buy bottles; ask at the counter. Premium or paired tastings cost more but add value.

What’s the safest transport plan if I’m tasting all day?

Use a guided tour, hop-on shuttle, private driver, or rotate a strictly sober designated driver. South Africa’s limit is low—don’t risk it. Rideshares work well in town; pre-arrange return rides if you’re far out.

What food pairings should I try beyond cheese?

Look for chocolate flights with reds, biltong with bold blends, charcuterie boards, and creative twists like cupcake pairings or doughnuts + dessert wine. Eat a proper breakfast and schedule a hearty lunch to beat palate fatigue.

Which sub-valleys or “pockets” should I string together?

Cluster estates to cut drive time:

Helderberg (sea influence; structured reds, ocean views)

Simonsberg (pinotage/shiraz power)

Bottelary Hills (chenin playground)

Jonkershoek (elegant, cooler styles)

Polkadraai Hills (experimental, youthful vibes)Do three in one pocket, then finish with a contrasting style elsewhere.

What should I wear and bring?

Smart-casual is perfect: comfy shoes, a hat, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, and a light layer for cellars. Bring a wine tote or ask for a shipper box if you plan to buy. Card works widely, but carry a little cash just in case.

Can I ship or fly home with wine?

Many travelers pack a check-in wine suitcase/foam sleeves. Some estates or airport desks offer export/shipping solutions (costly but convenient). Always check your airline’s liquid and weight rules.

Any etiquette tips for tasting rooms and vineyards?

Spit is totally okay (and pros do it). Don’t wear heavy perfume, hold glasses by the stem, and ask before entering vine rows for photos—stay on inter-row grass and avoid touching shoots. Tip your host if service shines.

What if someone in the group doesn’t drink?

Most estates welcome non-alcoholic guests with grape juice, coffee, or mocktails, and food pairings. They’ll still enjoy the views, tours, and art/sculpture you’ll find at several properties.

Can I recreate your route (Fairview, Muratie, Middelvlei, Lovane, Villiera)?

Absolutely—use it as a template: start with a cheese pairing (Fairview), add a heritage cellar (Muratie), schedule a braai or blend-your-own (Middelvlei), try a chocolate pairing (Lovane or similar), and end with biltong + bubbles (e.g., Villiera-style). Swap estates to match your tastes and opening hours.

Have you ever gone wine tasting in Stellenbosch?Which wines did you enjoy most?

For more info on travel in South Africa visit Travel Now Now.


Wine Tours in Vienna | Sip Your Way Across Vienna's Vineyards

If you're looking for the best wine tours in Vienna, you've come to the right place!

One of the fun memories I have from my trip to Vienna was when we travelled to the city outskirts and spent the day vineyard hopping with friends. We just happened to be in the city during Vienna Wine Hiking Day, which takes place in autumn and you spend the day walking from one winery to the next, sampling wines, and eating Austrian food.

Since Vienna Wine Hiking Day only takes place once a year, chances are you might miss it, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy some Austrian wineries and vineyards during your trip!

Thankfully, there are lots of wine tours in Vienna that visit the neighbouring wine regions - Wachau Valley, Wienerwald, Klosterneuburg and more. So let's discover Vienna through its wines and help you pick the right tour!

My Top 3 Picks: Best Wine Tours in Vienna

#1 Top Pick

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Countryside Half-Day Wine Tour

✅ Taste up to 12 wines

✅ Includes 2-course meal

✅ Explore Weinviertel wine region

#2 Pick

Vienna Woods Wine Tour - Wines, Vines & Good Times!

✅ Wienerwald wine tour

✅ Small group tour

✅ Hike Vienna Woods in summer

#3 Pick

3 Castles and Wine Tasting Tour in Danube Valley

✅ Visit 3 castles

✅ Private tour

✅ Customizable itinerary

Best Wine Tours in Vienna

1. Countryside Half Day Wine Tour near Vienna

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!

On this Vienna wine tour, you'll travel beyond the city limits to Weinviertel, a picturesque region characterized by rolling hills and vineyards just 30 minutes north of Vienna.

Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to personally meet the proprietors of three local wineries, tasting approximately 10 to 12 glasses of exquisite Austrian wine. That's right, this wine tour is a generous one!

Among the prominent grape varieties in this area, you'll sample Grüner Veltliner, Welschriesling, and Zweigelt. If you want to experience some wine cellar tours, this outing also ticks that box.

To round off your visit, you'll enjoy a delectable 2-course Austrian lunch or dinner, depending on the timing of your excursion.

As a tip, it's advisable to carry cash if you intend to purchase wine or souvenirs, as not all wineries accept credit cards.

PROS:

Taste up to 12 locally produced wines

2-course meal included in price

Explore Weinviertel wine region

"This tour is TOP notch! Our driver and guide Tamas was funny, quick witted and very knowledgeable of the area and wines. The three wineries we visited were absolutely fantastic! The last stop included dinner which exceeded our expectations. I HIGHLY recommend this tour." -Ronald N

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2. Vienna Woods Wine Tour - Wines, Vines & Good Times!

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7-9 hours | ✅ Book it!

This Vienna wine tour is the closest thing you'll get to experiencing Vienna Wine Hiking Day. The tour takes place in the Vienna Woods, also known as Wienerwald, a forested highland region located to the west of Vienna.

You'll kick off this tour at Wien Mitte Train Station where you'll meet your guide and board a train bound for the Vienna Woods. The journey is approximately 30 minutes.

It's important to note this wine tour has two different itineraries depending on whether you visit in summer or winter.

During the summer months, you'll arrive in Baden, a town that was once Beethoven's favourite country retreat. Here you explore the village and hike along forest trails to a lookout point that offers panoramic views of the Vienna Basin and Vienna Woods. From there, you'll enter the vineyards for an open-air wine tasting.

If you take this tour during the winter months, the train will bring you directly to the vineyards of the Thermal Region, also known as Thermenregion. Here you'll learn about the monks who started making wine in this region during the Middle Ages and there will also be a wine tasting. This is the only part of the tour that varies according to the seasons.

Next, you'll continue to the wine village of Gumpoldskirchen, where you'll have lunch at a traditional Austrian wine tavern (the cost of lunch is not included in the tour price). A local winemaker will lead the wine tastings and you'll have the opportunity to ask all your wine-making questions.

This tour ends with a train journey back to Vienna.

PROS:

Wienerwald wine tour

Hike in the Vienna Woods (summer only)

Small group tour allows for a more intimate experience

Fantastic day trip from start to finish. Appeals to everyone, I’m a wine enthusiast, so I was in my element. Scenery was beautiful, lunch was exceptional, wine tasting was intimate and delightful. Would love to do this again in the late summer / early autumn when the bars are open in the vineyards." -Rebecca H
Review from Viator

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3. Wachau Valley Wine Tasting Bike Tour from Vienna

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | ✅ Book it!

If you're looking for an adventurous wine tour from Vienna, this tour is the one for you! How does biking from vineyard to vineyard and visiting small Austrian villages sound?

You'll meet your guide in Vienna where you'll board a train and make your way towards Krems an der Donau, a small Austrian village that has a long history of winemaking. Here you’ll collect your bike.

Over the course of the day, you’ll cycle along the Danube River, first to the town of Durnstein known for its pastel houses and wine taverns. Here you’ll have the opportunity to visit Durnstein Abbey and see the fortress ruins where King Richard the Lionheart was once held captive.

Of course, this is a wine tour, so in between all the cycling, you’ll visit various family-run wineries to sample some Austrian wine and schnapps.

You should have a moderate level of fitness to join this tour as you'll be biking 25 kilometres or 16 miles. Also, keep in mind that these are not electric bikes, so be prepared to pedal! As a reward, at the end of the day, there will be time for a swim in the Danube.

Lunch is not included in this tour, but it is available at the local wine taverns - locally known as heuriger - so have some cash in hand.

PROS:

Wachau Valley wine tour

Explore the Austrian countryside on bikes

Visit small villages on the Danube

"Don't miss this biking excursion to the beautiful Wauchau Valley! This was one of the highlights of our 10 day trip to Eastern Europe. The 15 mile bike ride took us through some picturesque, cobble stone towns along the Danube, making a fews stops for wine tasting and lunch. Tim was a great guide, the pace very relaxed, and the scenery dreamy!" -Patricia D

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4. E-Bike Wine Culture Tour to Klosterneuburg

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!

This wine tour takes you to Klosterneuburg on the city limits with Vienna. Nicknamed Kloburg by locals, this town sits on the shores of the Danube River just north of Vienna and it's most famous for its monastery and wine-growing history.

On this bike tour, you'll pick up your bikes in Vienna and cycle along the Ring Road and past some major landmarks before making your way over to the shores of the Daube River, where you'll get on the bike path and start pedalling north.

You'll follow the river upstream where you'll see the Nussdorfer Wehr, a weir and lock system where the Danube Canal separates from the Danube River.

Shortly after, you'll arrive at Klosterneuburg Abbey, locally known as Stift Klosterneuburg, for a guided tour of this 12-century Augustinian monastery that was founded in 1114.

You'll then finish off this tour with a tasting of local wines.

As you can see, this is not a full-on wine tour where you spend the day going from vineyard to vineyard, but you get to enjoy a nice bike ride on the Danube, visit a historic monastery, and do a brief wine tasting. This tour offers quite a bit of variety in a short amount of time and you do the whole experience on e-bikes which is a major pro.

This Vienna wine tour is one of the shorter ones at 4 hours in length, so it's a good option if you're looking for a half-day tour that will leave you plenty of time to do other things.

PROS:

Wine tour of Klosterneuburg

E-bike tour

Cycle along the Danube River

"Amazing views, great guide, and lots of fun cycling. The e-bikes are so enjoyable on our total 33km ride. Our guide was knowledgeable, cautious, and fun! He gave us lots of breaks where we were able to ask lots of questions and find some common interests. Would definitely do this again if returning to Vienna. It is so easy to get around the city on bike." -Brittany D

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5. 3 Castles and Wine Tasting Tour in Danube Valley from Vienna

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-10 hours | ✅ Book it!

This next wine tour is absolute luxury all the way. Not only is this a private tour where you spend the day visiting wineries across the Danube River Valley, but you also visit 3 different castles along the way!

On this tour, you'll visit Melk Abbey, a Benedictine abbey that was founded in 1089. During the summer months, you'll visit Castle Aggstein, a ruined castle from the early 12th century that sits perched on a rock overlooking the Danube, while during the winter months, this gets swapped for the medieval village of Dürnstein. Lastly, you'll tour Klosterneuburg, an Augustinian monastery from the 12th century.

In between castle-hopping, you'll visit a family-run winery in the town of Rossatz, where you'll have the opportunity to sample some of the finest wines in the region.

This is the wine tour to top all wine tours! Wine and castles. What else could you ask for?

PROS:

Visit 3 castles

Private tour

Customizable itinerary

"Our tour guides Jenny and Vladimir were extraordinary, the best tour guides You could ever ask for, they were above our expectations in all aspects. The itinerary was designed well to maximize our time exploring those marvelous castles. Jenny is a true historian through her unique way of storytelling she gifted us with rich history that was profound, interesting, and entertaining. We must say they have a great knowledge and love of their country, we highly recommend you take this particular tour 1000 times over so grateful to have had such a wonderful experience with such incredible people." -Christopher N

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6. Austrian Wine Tasting

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 15 minutes | ✅ Book it!

Maybe you don't want to go on any big vineyard day trips and you're just happy to enjoy a few hours sampling Austrian wines. If that's the case, then this tour is the one for you.

This guided tasting takes place in Vienna's 2nd district in a traditional Viennese building from the Wilhelminian era with a wine cellar.

Over the course of this tasting, you'll learn about Austria’s wine history, its wine-producing regions and its best-growing grapes.

You'll get to try 6 different wines paired with locally sourced cheeses, cured meats and breads.

The best part is that it is a small group tour which makes it more interactive and you can ask your wine guide questions.

PROS:

Set in a wine cellar

Small group tour

Learn about Austrian wines

"If you’re a wine person this is a must do while in Vienna. The setting is unique and the wines we tasted were exceptional. Stylianos our host was very knowledgeable and fun which made the experience perfect. The wines we tasted made me change my feelings on Gruner. We didn’t want to leave! I highly recommend this experience." -Kim S

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7. Wine Picnic Overlooking Vienna

⭐ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours 30 minutes | ✅ Book it!

Maybe you don't want a winery tour or a guided wine tasting; you just want to sit on a blanket overlooking a vineyard and sip wine with that special someone next to you! If that sounds like you, then this wine picnic is one to consider.

In this tour, you'll travel aboard an open Italian APE - this is kind of like a rickshaw or a tuk-tuk - that fits up to 3 people. You'll drive out to Vienna's outskirts, where you'll enjoy a picnic in a vineyard with city views on the horizon.

You'll be provided with cozy blankets and an organic snack basket featuring cheese, salami, and bread, as well as water and wine!

This is a fun twist on the classic wine tour and it's a great option for a romantic occasion.

PROS:

Travel by rickshaw to a vineyard

Organic snack boxes

Picnic with a view

"I booked this wonderful experience for my girlfriend as a birthday present. And we both have to say it was an incredibly beautiful and magnificent experience. We can highly recommend it!!! 5 stars ++++plus. Lovely again. Above all, a big thank you to Marina&Matthias, two very warm and loving people. Thank you for making something like this possible :)" -Monika S

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FAQs About Austrian Wine

What is Austria's most famous wine? Austria is best known for Grüner Veltliner, a white wine grape variety. It has citrusy notes of lemon and lime, green apple and white peppercorn. Is Vienna a wine region? Vienna is associated with wine production and is known for its unique status as the only capital city in the world that has significant vineyards within its city limits. Vienna's wine region is referred to as the "Vienna Wine Region" or "Wiener Wein" in German and it has a long history of winemaking dating back to Roman times. What wines are from Vienna Austria? Grüner Veltliner is the most famous white wine grape variety in Austria, however, you can also find Riesling, Gemischter Satz, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay, just to name a few. Is Austria known for red or white wine? Austria is primarily known for its white wines, mostly dry white wines made using the Grüner Veltliner grape. However, in recent years, Austrian red wines have also been gaining recognition.

How to Choose the Right Vienna Wine Experience

If you’re wondering which Vienna wine tour is your best match, start with time, energy and vibe. Half-days are perfect if you want a tidy tasting with minimal logistics. Full days let you slow down, meet makers, and savor landscapes.

Block your calendar first: harvest weekends and summer Saturdays book out quickly.

Match fitness to format: if 16–25 km on a bike sounds “meh,” choose an e-bike or bus tour.

Pair wine styles with region: crispy Grüner and Riesling in Wachau; field blends (Gemischter Satz) in Vienna; spicy reds (Zweigelt, Blaufränkisch) more common outside the city.

If you’re short on time, pick a cellar tasting in Vienna; you’ll still learn a ton.

Traveling with kids? Heuriger taverns with gardens beat long bus days.

Tour Selector Cheat Sheet

You Prefer…Time You HaveBest MatchInsider TipMinimal logistics, max tasting2–4 hrsCity cellar tasting or Klosterneuburg e-bikeBook late-afternoon slots for golden hour photosViews + vineyard strolls5–7 hrsVienna Woods/Wienerwald hike & sipSummer dates often include an open-air tastingCastles + countryside8–10 hrsWachau private or small-groupAsk to add a Danube ferry crossing (seasonal)Pedal & pourFull dayWachau bike & wineSunscreen + reusable bottle = your best friendsRomance & slow sips2–3 hrsVineyard picnic + tuk-tukPick sunset; bring a light scarf even in summer

Meet the Grapes: What You’ll Actually Drink

Grüner = citrus + green apple + white pepper; pairs with everything from schnitzel to salads.

Riesling (dry) = stone fruit + lime + slate; brilliant with trout and spicy Asian bites.

Gemischter Satz = orchard fruit + herbs + texture; the quintessential Viennese pour.

Zweigelt = red cherry + spice; chill slightly in summer.

Blaufränkisch = blackberry + pepper + grip; great with grilled meats and aged cheese.

Tasting Notes & Pairings

Grape/StyleBodyFlavor MarkersEasy PairingsBest SeasonGrüner VeltlinerLight–MedLemon, green apple, white pepperSchnitzel, asparagus, saladsYear-roundRiesling (dry)Light–MedLime, apricot, slateRiver fish, spicy dishes, goat cheeseSpring–AutumnGemischter Satz DACMedPear, herbs, citrus zestBrettljause (cold cuts board), fried chickenSpring–HarvestZweigeltMedRed cherry, spice, violetsSausages, burgers, paprika dishesSummer–AutumnBlaufränkischMed–FullBlackberry, pepper, mineralGrill plates, hard cheesesAutumn–Winter

When to Go: Seasonal Guide for Wine Lovers

Vienna is rare among capitals for having vineyards within city limits. This means wine season feels close and constant.

Spring (Apr–May): new vintages, mild hikes, fewer crowds.

Summer (Jun–Aug): late sunsets; book patios and bring bug spray.

Autumn (Sep–Oct): harvest vibe, Sturm, color in the rows.

Winter (Nov–Mar): cellar tastings, market detours, rich seasonal dishes.

Check local calendars for pop-up heuriger “Ausg’steckt” dates.

Season & Sips

SeasonWeather FeelWhat’s PouringBest ExperiencePack ThisSpringMild, breezyFresh Grüner & Gemischter SatzVineyard stroll + patio lunchLight jacket, sunglassesSummerWarm–hotSpritzers, chilled redsGarden heuriger at sunsetHat, SPF, water bottleAutumnCrisp, goldenSturm, richer whites, early redsHarvest tastings + hillside viewsLayers, closed-toe shoesWinterCold, cozyStructured reds, late-release whitesCellar flights + comfort foodWarm coat, scarf, gloves

What to Eat with Austrian Wine (Easy Pairing Wins)

Great wine gets even better with the right plate. Vienna makes that simple with unfussy, delicious tavern food.

When in doubt, pick acid with fat: Grüner cuts through fried goodness.

Add a vinegar-forward potato salad to refresh your palate between sips.

Try Käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausage) with a lightly chilled Zweigelt.

Fish plates (smoked or grilled) = Riesling or lighter Gemischter Satz.

Dessert pairing? Off-dry Riesling with apple strudel is a quiet revelation.

Pairing Playbook

DishFlavor ProfileWine MatchWhy It WorksWiener Schnitzel + potato saladCrisp, savory, tangyGrüner VeltlinerAcid cuts fat; pepper echoes seasoningBackhendl (fried chicken)Juicy, crunchyGemischter SatzTexture + citrusy zip = lifted biteSmoked troutSmoky, delicateDry RieslingMineral + citrus brightens richnessSausages / KäsekrainerSavory, saltyZweigelt (slightly chilled)Cherry fruit + spice handles fat/saltGrill plate / aged cheesesBold, umamiBlaufränkischStructure + pepper stands up to char

Getting Around the Vineyards (Without Stress)

Vienna makes wine logistics remarkably easy: trams, U-Bahn, regional rail and dedicated bike paths stitch city and vines together.

Use WienMobil/ÖBB apps for real-time transport.

Ask your guide about luggage wine holds if you’re buying bottles.

Bring cash; some rural wineries still prefer it.

Wear sturdy shoes—vineyard paths can be dusty or uneven.

Always reserve bikes/e-bikes in advance on sunny weekends.

Transport Choices

ModeRangeBest ForInsider TipTram + U-Bahn + short walkIn-city vineyardsHeuriger hoppingScreenshot last trains before you toastRegional rail (ÖBB)30–90 min radiusKlosterneuburg, Baden, KremsSit window-left for Danube views northboundGuided minivan30–120 min radiusWeinviertel/Wachau tastingsLets everyone taste freelyE-bike15–40 kmDanube paths & abbeysWindbreaker + sunglasses = happy riderClassic bike15–25 kmWachau loopsFlat routes, but hydrate and pace yourself

More Frequently Asked Questions: Wine Tours in Vienna

When is the best season for wine tours around Vienna?

Autumn (Sep–Oct) for harvest vibes and Vienna Wine Hiking Day; spring (Apr–May) for mild hikes and fresh vintages; summer for patio tastings; winter for cozy cellar flights.

What regions do most Vienna wine tours cover?

Common picks are Weinviertel, Wachau Valley (Danube), Vienna Woods/Thermenregion, and Klosterneuburg on the city’s northern edge.

Do I need prior wine knowledge to enjoy these tours?

Nope. Tours are designed for all levels—guides explain grapes (like Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, Gemischter Satz) and styles as you taste.

Are half-day options worth it?

Yes—Weinviertel or Klosterneuburg e-bike/cellar experiences fit nicely into a city itinerary and still include quality tastings.

How active are the bike wine tours?

Expect 16–25 km of cycling on mostly flat paths (standard bikes) or e-bikes for an easier roll. Bring water, sunscreen, and closed-toe shoes.

Can I do a wine experience that’s more “scenic picnic” than “cellar crawl”?

Yes—vineyard picnics overlooking the city swap multiple stops for one memorable setting with curated snacks and a bottle.

What should I budget for lunch on tour days?

Heuriger (wine tavern) lunches are typically cash-friendly and à la carte; some tours include a 2-course meal, others leave lunch open—carry euros.

Do tours run year-round, even in winter?

Many do. Winter itineraries pivot to cellar tastings and historic villages/abbeys (e.g., Klosterneuburg, Dürnstein) instead of vineyard hikes.

Can I bring kids on a wine tour?

Some small-group or private tours allow minors with soft drinks/juice; check age policies and consider shorter/e-bike or picnic formats.

What should I wear/bring?

Layers, comfortable walking/cycling shoes, sun protection, a reusable bottle, and a small daypack. Vineyards can be dusty/uneven.

Can I buy and ship wine home?

Buying at wineries is easy; card acceptance varies, so bring cash. Shipping depends on destination rules—ask your guide/winery about options.

Is Vienna Wine Hiking Day only once a year?

Yes—usually one autumn weekend with way-marked routes and pop-up heuriger. If you miss it, Vienna Woods and urban vineyard tours provide a similar feel.

Final Thoughts: Wine Tours in Vienna

So which one should you choose? As you can see, there are plenty of Vienna tours for wine lovers.

You can explore wine regions like the Wachau Valley, Wienerwald or Klosterneuburg. You can do guided wine tours by bus, bike or rickshaw. You can visit vineyards or go deep down into wine cellars. The choice is yours!

One thing is for sure, these are the best-rated wine tours in Vienna so you really can't go wrong with any of them.

Read More about Austria:

Vienna Food Tours for Foodies

5 Best Biking Tours in Vienna

50 Awesome Things to do in Vienna

Cruise the Danube on These Vienna Boat Tours

10 Places to Eat in Vienna

Trying Vienna's Famous Sachertorte


You Know You're Travelling with a Photographer When...

It doesn't matter if they're a professional or an amateur, photographers aren't the easiest people to travel with. They get up at strange hours, they like to pack a lot of crap, and they'll likely keep you waiting around because photography is serious business...
I should know, I married a camera-totting redhead who also happens to be into video. You can only imagine how much time I have spent waiting around while he goes trigger happy around a new town. Well, long enough to get into photography myself and actually learn a thing or two, that's how long.

If you've ever travelled with a photography aficionado, you can probably relate to a few of these:

All Of The Quirky Things Travel Photographers Do Whilst Traveling!

You have to leave early because it takes twice as long to get anywhere.
Not only will you be chasing light when you travel with a photographer, but you'll also be going at a snail's pace. Getting from your hotel to that little restaurant a couple of streets away could take you an hour. I mean it.
How does it happen?
"Just one second, I'm going to grab my camera in case I see something along the way..."
See something along the way, huh? Well of course you're going to see something along the way - we're in a new city, surrounded by breathtaking architecture, and there are people walking around with giant trays of food on their heads - it's a sensory overload!
And so it begins. We go five steps, *snap snap*, pop into a market, *snap*, bump into a man who wants to be photographed holding a boa constrictor, *snap snap snap*, now the man wants money because you took a picture of him with his boa constrictor...
Meanwhile, you, the non-photog, are descending into the pits of hanger (that's HUNGER + ANGER), and it's a very dangerous place to be.

You can't wrap your mind around Lightroom.
Who the heck has enough time to actually figure out Lightroom, let alone spend 4 hours stitching, highlight, cropping, and filtering one single image?! If it's not going on the cover of the Nat Geo, it probably doesn't need more than 5 clicks on any photo editing software!
YOU, you're happy with your free Picasa that you downloaded off the Internet. It gets the job done AND people have even complemented you on your work, so there.

You can have a tripod assembled in 12 seconds.
Swoosh, swoosh, swoosh. Click, click.
And again.
And repeat.
And voila!
That's a skill set worthy of a resume.
You've learned to keep the sun behind your back.
Not only does this stop you from squinting, but it also means that your subjects are well lit as opposed to being dark silhouettes. Unless you're going for silhouettes...
Quickest way to improve your crappy photography!
You can tell when Golden Hour and Blue Hour are approaching.
There are certain hours of the day when magic happens. These times have become your personal nightmare.
First, there's this thing called Blue Hour. This occurs during twilight and it's the little bridge of time between dawn and sunrise in the mornings, or between sunset and dusk in the evenings. The sky turns a deep-shade of blue producing some stunning backdrops.
And then we have Golden Hour. It strikes shortly after sunrise or before sunset when the sun is lower in the sky. Golden Hour casts a soft light in its path that gives your pictures a bit of an ethereal glow.
Of course if you're not a photographer, all this means for you is that the alarm clock will go off at a ridiculous hour and that you'll be throwing on a hoodie over your head, grabbing a flashlight, and bolting out the door before the sun creeps up any higher.
Yes, blame the sun (or the photographer) for robbing you of your precious sleep!

You are the decoy.
"Could you just stand there and pretend I'm taking your picture?"
Umm, what?
"There's this guy behind you with an insane beard, orange eyebrows, and he's wearing cowboy chaps...with a neon green thong underneath! Just stand there, so it doesn't look rude."
Yes, these are the kind of scenes you'll be subjected to...
You're the one left holding the heavy camera bag.
You don't know how it happens, but somewhere between the shuffle of changing lenses, adding polarizers, and pulling out the tripod, you often find yourself holding the bag with all the camera equipment.
Try setting it on the floor and before the bag even touches the ground you'll hear, "that's expensive! Please keep an eye on it."
Yeah, right. You mean please hold it like it's a newborn child...
You're also starting to resent said pack.
Not only does it weigh more than a newborn child, but the gear inside really requires a lot of attention. Those lenses aren't going to clean themselves and you'll likely get swindled into helping. You're just too nice!

You've learned to focus before you shoot.
Have you ever thought your photos looked sharp on the camera screen and then you develop them or look at them on the computer and they're all blurry?
That's basically 80% of my photos before I started travelling with the 'tog.
You see, apparently there's this little thing called focus.
This means before you take a picture of your subject you're supposed to hold the trigger down halfway and allow it to focus on whatever it is you're trying to shoot. Once you've heard the camera do its jhhhhh-shhh-beep (yup, that's what my camera sounds like when it's adjusting) THEN you can hold the shutter button all the way down and take your picture.
I now have an excuse to retrace my steps across Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, and Argentina, because everything I shot there is a complete mess.
You've learned that artificial lighting is the enemy.
Don't get me wrong, artificial lighting works when done right, but when it's not, you may as well kiss your photos goodbye. If you shoot indoors with bad lighting, you'll end up with yellow-hued images that are simply cringe worthy.
Save yourself the trouble and chase the natural light, beybeh!
You've started using words like 'ISO', 'aperture', and other photog lingo.
You still have no idea what these actually mean, but you know enough to be able to drop these words into conversation without them totally sounding out of place.
"Have you tried boosting the ISO?"
"Are you using large aperture and fast shutter?"
"Oh, it didn't turn out? Was the image too noisy?"
Yeah, you're rolling with the big boys now...
You've learned to NEVER ever touch a dSLR sensor, EVER!
It doesn't matter if you're seeing little specks of dust show up on your images, you never ever ever EVER go into your camera body armed with Q-tips to "inspect". This usually results in worse problems than you initially had, and the mistake costs, oh, let's just say the price of a new camera.
You know how to unlock a memory card.
A few months ago your first reaction to 'card locked' popping up on the camera screen would have been, "Oh my gosh! My camera is broken." Now you're a pro.
Pop the memory card out, slide the minuscule lock button on the side and you're good to go.
Don't ask me how or why memory cards get locked (I certainly do not slide the lock over!), but thankfully it's an easy solution.
You're starting to covet fancy camera lenses.
Maybe you DO need a 50 mm lens. You like the way it focuses on one point and gently blurs the surroundings.
Or better yet a telephoto lens. It's like shooting with binoculars - wait, that's probably not right - but you can shoot objects that are really far away!
Hmm, you could get really creative with this...

Your photography has actually started improving.
You spend so much time waiting around for your photographer to do his shizz, that you've actually started taking pictures with your own camera as a way to pass time.

A bit of tilt here, a little bokeh effect there, and whaddya know, you're practically turning into a PHOTOGRAPHER!

The Happy-Non-Photographer’s Survival Guide (and How to Actually Get Great Shots Together)

So you’ve signed up to roam the world with a camera-toting human who whispers sweet nothings like “f/1.8,” “leading lines,” and “we have to be on that hill before sunrise.” Congrats! Here’s the good news: you can keep the romance and get the shots.

Plan Like a Photographer, Travel Like a Foodie

If “just popping out for a quick pic” often becomes a three-hour odyssey, structure your days so neither of you feels robbed.

The Two-Window Rule

Window 1: Golden/Blue Hour. This belongs to the photographer. Minimal detours, maximum light chasing.

Window 2: Food & Fun Hour(s). This belongs to the non-photog. You pick the cafe, market, museum or random neighborhood cat to befriend.

Buffer Blocks. Build 30 minutes around each window for “one last shot” and “one last pastry.”

Map It Like a Pro

Create a shared map (Google Maps or an offline app).

Stars = must-shoot locations.

Hearts = must-eat places.

Notes = opening times, tripod/permit rules, potential vantage points.

Add sunrise/sunset azimuth notes so you’re not facing the wrong way at golden hour (your future selves will thank you).

Make a Shot List (That Feels Like a Treasure Hunt)

Wide scene → medium detail → close texture (three frames per stop; done).

One candid of each person per day (no negotiating out of this one).

One “us” shot; use a ledge, mini tripod, or a kind stranger with good vibes.

Sample Day Plans (Two Styles, Same City)

Time“Photo-First” Morning“Snack-First” Morning05:15Tiptoe out; pre-packed bag; sunrise at overlookZzz06:30Blue hour cityscape on tripodZzz08:00Return with croissants & tales of fog banksRoll out of bed to coffee09:30Brunch together (you choose)Brunch together (you choose)11:00–15:00Museums, markets, meandering (no heavy camera detours)Same17:00Golden hour wander (quick route)Golden hour gelato stroll19:00Dinner & device-down pactDinner & device-down pact

12-Question FAQ: Travelling With a Photographer

How do we avoid spending the whole trip “waiting for light”?

Agree on the two-window rule: one sunrise/sunset window is for photos, the rest of the day bends toward food, museums and meanders. Scheduling photo time makes non-photo time sacred.

What’s the one lens to bring if we want to travel light?

A 24–70mm (or 24–105mm). It handles sweeping plazas, portraits, and plate-licking food shots without constant lens swaps.

We only have phones—can we still get “wow” images?

Absolutely. Use RAW/HDR, keep the lens clean, lock focus/exposure, and shoot during golden or blue hour. A mini tripod + night mode turns your phone into a low-light monster.

How do we keep photos safe on the road?

Follow the 2–3–1 mantra: two cards (dual-write), three copies (device + SSD + cloud), one copy off-device (SSD in a different bag). Back up nightly; future-you will send gratitude pastries.

Is it okay to photograph people in markets?

Ask with a smile and a gesture. If someone says no, respect it. Avoid paying children for photos; support a local initiative instead. In religious or sensitive spaces, follow posted rules and keep flash off.

How long should editing take each night?

Aim for 10–15 minutes: import, quick cull, basic edits to 5–10 favorites, and a cloud sync if you’ve got Wi-Fi. Save deep-dives for home.

Do we really need a tripod?

If you want razor-sharp blue-hour cityscapes or silky water, yes—but a mini tripod handles 80% of travel needs and lives in a jacket pocket.

What’s the fastest way to improve my people photos?

Get closer than feels comfortable, focus on the eyes, and lower the camera to chest/eye level. Add context (hands, tools, surroundings) to tell a story.

Help! Midday is our only free time—how do we beat harsh light?

Hug open shade, shoot interiors (museums, cafes), use backlight for rim-lit portraits, and lean on black & white for high-contrast scenes.

How can I be useful if I’m not into cameras?

You’re the MVP: spot angles, hold snacks (critical!), keep an eye on bags, become the decoy/poser-in-chief, and call the time when “one last shot” becomes three last shots.

What’s a respectful way to caption/share travel portraits?

Share a story, not just a face: what you talked about, what they were doing (with consent), and what you learned. Skip personal details that could harm privacy; avoid stereotyping.

We argue about “just five more minutes.” Any truce tips?

Set a timer before each stop. When it dings, the camera goes away or you trade five minutes for five later at a cafe of your choosing. Reciprocity = harmony.

FAQs: Travelling With a Photographer (Without Losing Your Mind)

1) Why does every walk take three times longer with a photographer?

Because they’re “chasing light” and stopping for foregrounds, reflections, and leading lines every 20 metres. Build in buffer time and agree on one or two true photo windows per day.

2) What’s the nicest way to say “five more minutes…really”?

Use a timer. Set 7–10 minutes per stop. When it dings, trade: camera away now = café/pastry later. Reciprocity keeps everyone happy.

3) Do we really have to wake up for blue hour and golden hour?

If they want dreamy light, yes. Compromise: they take sunrise; you claim a no-camera brunch and a slow afternoon plan.

4) I’m the default pack mule—how do we lighten the load?

Encourage a one-lens day (24–70mm / 24–105mm) or phone-only morning. Mini-tripods handle 80% of travel shots and fit in a jacket pocket.

5) Any quick tricks so my photos don’t look awful next to theirs?

Clean your lens, tap to focus on eyes, keep the sun behind you (or shoot in open shade), and shoot at sunrise/sunset. That’s 80% of the magic.

6) What’s a polite approach to photographing people?

Ask with a smile and gesture, accept no for an answer, avoid paying kids, and skip flash in sacred spaces. Share the image if you can.

7) How do we stop losing time to editing every night?

Cap edits at 10–15 minutes: import → cull → quick tweaks to 5–10 favourites → back up. Save deep edits for home.

8) What’s the simplest safe backup routine on the road?

2–3–1: two cards or copies when shooting, three total copies by night (laptop/phone + SSD + cloud), one copy stored in a different bag.

9) Airport security keeps flagging the camera bag—any tips?

Pack batteries under 100 Wh in carry-on, tape power buttons, keep lenses separated, and pull out the camera/film at security. Say “hand check” for high-ISO film.

10) Can we fly a drone everywhere we travel?

No. Drone rules vary by country, city, and park. Many historical sites ban them. Always check local regs and permit rules before packing it.

11) How can I pose my photographer for once?

Use the “triangle”: feet apart, one shoulder toward the camera, hands doing something (hat, mug, rail). Lean slightly forward; chin out and down. Click.

12) What’s the one phrase that keeps the peace?

“Your light, my lunch.” They pick the shot; you pick the spot to eat. Everyone wins.

Have you ever travelled with a photographer?Go on, what was it like?


Your Introductory Guide to the World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan!

The World Nomad Games is a fairly new event - 2016 marks the second time it has ever been hosted! - but despite being in its infancy, this is one of the most exciting sporting and cultural events I have ever attended. This year, forty countries came together to compete in twenty-three different sports under the slogan "UNITED in FORCE! UNITED in SPIRIT!" and what an event it was.
So what are the games all about? Well, the mission behind the games is to preserve and showcase the rich tradition of nomadic culture found in Central Asia, and to promote values of peace through inter-cultural exchange. And need I mention that aside from the opening and closing ceremonies these games are entirely free to attend?!

As a foreigner coming in with very sparse knowledge of the region, this event was a fascinating way to dive in headfirst. There wasn't a single sport I could name or identify, or even an athlete I knew by name, but by the end of the games I was cheering along as Kyrgyzstan dominated the kok boru match and took the headless sheep as its prize. Yes, I told you these games would be interesting, but before we get into the actual sports, I want to tell you a little bit about the culture.

World Nomad Games Guide: Unique Sporting and Cultural Event in Kyrgyzstan

Nomadic Culture at the Folk Festival
The Kyrgyz were once a nomadic people whose traditional industry revolved around animal husbandry, which meant packing up the yurt and moving with the changing seasons. During the summer months, the nomads would relocate to the high-altitude pastures where their animals could graze and fatten up for winter, however, this is a tradition that was repressed by the Soviet Union with Kyrgyz families being forced to permanently settle into villages during the late 1920s and 1930s.

Today it is great to see the tradition of going up to the pastures being reasserted and that's why, for me, one of the highlights of the World Nomad Games was the Folk Festival taking place on the Kyrchyn Jailoo.

Jailoo?
'Jailoo' translates to summer pasture, and this is where many of the cultural performances and events were set. Picture a wide green valley surrounded by mountains covered in thick forest, and you've got yourself the perfect setting to celebrate Kyrgyzstan's nomadic history.

Kyrchyn was divided into various camps each representing a different region in Kyrgyzstan. I really enjoyed wandering through the different camps and seeing the various handicrafts on display - tapestries, musical instruments, and traditional hats - as well as catching some of the musical performances and dances.
Everyone was beyond friendly and we had people calling us in to have a look inside their yurts, while others kept trying to feed us; food plays a massive role in hospitality here.
Aside from that, Kyrchyn had yurt building competitions, costume displays, national dish contests, storytelling and so much more! This is also where the archery and hunting competitions were held, so overall there was plenty to keep us entertained. I spent two whole days here and I still feel like I barely scratched the surface. Trust me, if you do come to the World Nomad Games, don't be put of by the distance to Kyrchyn because it truly is one of the highlights of the whole event!

Sports at the World Nomad Games
There were lots of sports to catch at the World Nomad Games - more than you could cover in just a few short days, to be honest! - but if there's one you shouldn't miss, it's kok boru.

This is probably the strangest game you've never heard of. Picture a game of polo where two teams are trying to score on their opponent, except instead of a ball they're using a headless goat or sheep. This may sound a little grim, but the animal has already been slaughtered and it is eaten by the winning team at the end of the match, so nothing goes to waste.
This is a sport that dates back centuries and it is widespread across Central Asia. Traditionally, children who wanted to play kok boru would approach a shepherd and ask for a slaughtered goat or sheep. They would then play the game and at the end return the animal to the owner as a sign of thanks. Because the meat had been tenderized during the game, this was actually considered a great gift.
I was worried that the animals at the World Nomad Games would perhaps go to waste, but that was not the case. A fellow blogger even ran into the USA team who lost the kok boru match against China, and they talked about how they had been invited to partake in the goat. Apparently they were still reeling with gastrointestinal issues, but you don't turn down a celebratory barbecue. After all, isn't this camaraderie what the games are all about?

For anyone considering the World Nomad Games in the future, here's a full list of the games you can expect to catch:
HORSE COMPETITIONS
Kok-boru
I've already written about this one, but basically it's two teams on horseback trying to get a sheep or a goat into the goal.
Er enish
Wrestling is hard enough, right? Well, why not add another element of difficulty by wrestling on horseback! That's what this sport is all about! Apparently this game has a bit of a military tradition as wrestling on horseback was something that developed on the battlefields of Central Asia.
Cirit
This is a game with Turkish roots and it involves throwing a stick at your opponent while riding on horseback. It kind of looks like they're throwing spears at each other, minus the deadly tip.

WRESTLING
Mas-wrestling
In this game two wrestlers sit facing each other with the soles of their feet on opposite sides of a wooden board. The wrestlers then grab a stick with their hands and they pull until they're able to get the stick or pull the opponent onto the other side of the board. Sounds simply enough but players were turning beet red from the exertion.
Alysh
This is another wrestling game where wrestlers rest their heads on their opponents shoulder, and then grab on to their opponent's belt with both hands. The goal is to pin down the other person by holding down his belt.
Kyrgyz kuresh
In this wrestling game both opponents are bare chested and the goal is to throw the other person over their shoulder. The two players stand on a mat facing each other, and grab onto each other's belts with both hands, tugging and pulling until they're able to swing the other person over.
Kazakh kuresh
In this form of Kazakh wrestling, wrestlers dress in special jackets and then try to knock their opponent down to the ground.
Goresh
Here two opponents meet on the mat and they try to force the other person to touch the ground with any part of their body except their feet.
Gyulesh
This is yet another wrestling game where two opponents meet and use a series of holds, grips and throws, to get the other person over their shoulder.
Aba kurosh
In this wrestling game, the goal is once again to get the opponent over your shoulder, but the wrestling is accompanied with live traditional musical instruments that feature both drums and wind instruments.

HORSE RACES
Chong at chabysh
This translates to 'racing to the far distance' and it is a long distance horse race run over 80 kilometres, in a team that consists of over 21 horses. All riders must be over 18.
At chabysh
This is a slightly shorter long distance race that is run over 22 kilometres. Riders over 12 years old are allowed to participate.
Jorgo salysh
This race is for riders over 12 years old and it covers 11 kilometres.
Kunan sabysh
This one is run with stallions that are between 2-3 years old and it also covers 11 kilometres.

ARCHERY GAMES
Joo jaa atuu
This game involves hiking and shooting with a bow and arrow.
Atchan jaa atuu
And this one involves horseback riding while shooting with a bow and arrow.
Mass bow range and accuracy
Target shooting with a bow and arrow.
INTELLECTUAL GAMES
Toguz korgool
To translate the game, 'toguz' means nine and 'korgol' means sheep droppings. In this board game, each player has nine wells and the goal is to collect as many sheep droppings as possible. I'm not sure why you'd want sheep droppings in your well, but that's how the game works.
Mangala
Mangala means 'to shift' or 'to move' and it is the equivalent of chess in this part of the world. In this board game, there are 48 stones, 2 storage wells, and a total of 12 wells. The goal of the game is to empty the storage wells and fill each of the smaller wells with 4 stones.

HUNTING GAMES
Salbuurun
This part of the competition involves hunting with birds of prey and dogs. There is a competition to see how fast eagles can fly as hunters call them from 200 meters away and also how quickly they can race after a fox skin. There's another competition where hunters get their falcon to simulate an air attack on a lure made of feathers, as well as a Taigan dog race to see how quickly dogs can run after a fox or hare skin.

THE NATIONAL GAME
Ordo
This is a military game that involves mapping out an attack on the enemy. Basically, a circle is drawn on the ground and then players try to knock the 'Khan' out of the circle and thus take over his palace. This game is played with small animal bones.

The Layout of the World Nomad Games
The World Nomad Games were spread out across Cholpon-Ata and the surrounding area, so it's a good idea to get a hold of the schedule and figure out what events you want to attend and where those are held. Here's a quick look at the locations and what games took place in each of theses:
Hippodrome
Located in Cholpon-Ata. This is where the horse races and horse competitions were held, as well as the opening and closing ceremonies.
Sports and Recreation Centre
Also known as the Gazprom Building, this one is located in Cholpon-Ata just west of the Hippodrome. This is where the martial arts events were held.
Kyrchyn Jailoo
This is a green pasture located about 40 kilometres east of Cholpon-Ata and just north of Semënovka. If you don't have your own vehicle, the best way to get here is by using the shuttles. This is where the folk festival was held along with the archery and hunting competitions.
Aurora Sanatoria
The Sanatoria is located 17 kilometres east of Cholpon-Ata and this is where the intellectual games were held.

Exploring the Surrounding Area
The World Nomad Games are 6 days in length, so this also gives you plenty of time to take some day trips or extend your stay in Kyrgyzstan and spend some time travelling around the region; I would suggest the latter!
If you want to do some sightseeing around Cholpon-Ata, you have Issyk-Kul Provincial State Historical Culture Museum Reserve; it's a long name, but it's a field covered in large boulders where you can see petroglyphs. There's also Rukh Ordo, which is a quirky theme park that looks at historical figures, Kyrgyz legends, and the interplay of 5 religions all under one setting. And aside from that you can also go on a boat tour of Issyk-Kul or just enjoy a dip in the lake.
Now see the picture of the mountains right above? That's on the shores of Song Kol Lake and it is one of the most beautiful places you will get to experience in Kyrgyzstan, so find a way to carve out a couple of days and do a horse trek and yurt stay out there! It's not really that close to Cholpon-Ata, but it's worth the detour either way.

Tips for the World Nomad Games

Book your accommodations in advance. This was a well attended event so you'll want to make sure you book your hotel or hostel in advance. Don't leave things to chance or you could end up in the outskirts of town!
Wear comfortable closed shoes. I would suggest hiking boots if you have those, or if not a solid pair of running shoes. The path leading to the Kyrchyn Jailoo was starting to get quite muddy towards the end of the festival.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. You'll likely be spending long days out in the sun and it's easy to get a burn without realizing it.
Pack a fleece and a rain jacket. The temperature is cooler on the jailoo and things can get quite chilly and rainy when the clouds roll down from the mountains, so it's best to be prepared.
Carry toilet paper and hand sanitizer. The porta potties at Krychyn were less than pleasant so I would refrain from using those and go for the makeshift squat toilets instead. You'll also want to come prepared with toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Check for a revised version of the schedule. We found that the schedule for some of the events changed last minute with some things being pushed forward and others pushed back, so if there's something you don't want to miss, check the updated schedule that's posted on the exterior of the building.
Bring money for food and snacks. There were lots of food stands at the Hippodrome and outside Kyrchyn, so if you don't want to pack a lunch, bring some cash and sample the local food.
Stay and travel in Kyrgyzstan. Once the games are over, why not stay and travel around the country? You could consider horse trekking in Song Kol, enjoying the local cuisine in Karakol, staying in a lakeside yurt in Issyk Kul and so much more!

Plan Your World Nomad Games Trip: Practical Add-On Guide, Travel Tips & Planner

When to Go and What to Expect

The Games typically run for about six days with an opening ceremony, competition days (sports + folk festival), and a closing ceremony. Most events cluster around Cholpon-Ata on Issyk-Kul’s north shore and the Kyrchyn Jailoo (summer pasture) in the mountains.

Climate: Expect strong sun at altitude, quick weather changes, and cooler temperatures on the jailoo. You can have T-shirt weather at the Hippodrome and fleece weather in Kyrchyn on the same day.

Crowds: Opening/closing ceremonies and kok boru finals are the busiest. Folk-festival days at Kyrchyn feel festive rather than crowded thanks to the wide valley.

Venues at a Glance (Pick Your Base)

PlaceWhat Happens HereBest ForTravel Time from Cholpon-AtaOn-the-Ground TipsHippodrome (Cholpon-Ata)Opening/closing ceremonies, horse races, kok boru, er enishBig-ticket matches; easy food standsIn townArrive early for finals; bring binoculars for goal-mouth actionSports & Recreation Centre (Gazprom)Wrestling styles (kuresh, alysh, mas-wrestling), indoor martial eventsIntense match days, weather-proof5–10 minLines move fast; photo from higher rows for full-mat shotsKyrchyn JailooFolk Festival (yurts, crafts, music, dance), archery, salbuurun (eagle/falconry & dog events)Culture deep-dive, landscape~1 hr by shuttle/driveMountain weather: sun hat + fleece + rain shell in the same dayAurora SanatoriaIntellectual games (toguz korgool, mangala)Quiet, curious spectators~25–30 minGreat for a slower half-day between big matches

Where to stay: If your heart is set on kok boru and ceremonies, base in Cholpon-Ata (walk/bus to the Hippodrome). If you’re culture-first, consider accommodation on the road toward Kyrchyn to shorten those morning transfers.

Getting There and Getting Around

Reaching Issyk-Kul

From Bishkek → Cholpon-Ata: 3.5–5 hours depending on traffic/roadworks.

Marshrutka (minibus): Cheapest; frequent; limited luggage space.

Shared taxi / private car: Faster and comfortable for groups.

Self-drive: Scenic lakeshore; check road conditions and fuel up in towns.

Local Transport During the Games

Official shuttles often run to Kyrchyn from Cholpon-Ata; they’re the easiest way up the valley.

Taxis are plentiful around major venues (agree on price in advance).

Walking works within Cholpon-Ata (Hippodrome ↔ town), but distances stretch at Kyrchyn.

Ticketing: Historically, sports outside of ceremonies have been free to attend; that said, details change—always confirm the current policy and how to secure ceremony seats.

Budget Snapshot (Typical Ranges)

These ballparks help with planning. Costs vary by year and demand.

CategoryBudgetMid-RangeSplurgeRoom/NightGuesthouse/hostelSmall hotel/yurt stayLakefront hotel/ryokan-styleMeals/DayMarket stalls, café platesMix of café + sit-downMulti-course dinners, specialty tastingsLocal TransportShuttle + occasional taxiPrivate transfers to KyrchynDriver on callExtrasSouvenirs, craft demosGuided day tripsCeremony seats (if ticketed), VIP experiences

Cash & cards: Bring som (KGS) for food stalls, rural shops, and taxis. ATMs exist in bigger towns but can be finicky on festival days.

What to Eat (and Where to Find It)

Kyrgyz hospitality is edible. At the Hippodrome and around Kyrchyn you’ll find pop-up stands and outdoor kitchens:

Beshbarmak: Hand-cut noodles with boiled meat and onion broth—ceremonial and filling.

Kuurdak: Pan-fried meat and potatoes; the perfect cold-weather fuel.

Lagman: Hand-pulled noodles with vegetables and meat in a rich sauce.

Manty: Steamed dumplings; lamb or pumpkin are common.

Kymyz/Shoro: Fermented mare’s milk (kymyz) and grain-based soft drinks (shoro).

Boorsok: Puffy fried dough bites passed around like hugs.

Packing List (Field-Tested)

Day Pack Essentials

Sun hat, SPF, lip balm

Fleece + packable rain shell (yes, both!)

1–2 L water (refillable), snacks

Hand sanitizer, toilet paper (for remote facilities)

Cash in small bills, phone power bank

Binoculars (kok boru becomes epic up close)

Clothing & Footwear

Sturdy closed shoes (mud + uneven ground at Kyrchyn)

Quick-dry layers; scarf or buff for wind/dust

Light gloves and beanie if you run cold

Media & Tech

Fast-focus camera or phone with burst mode

Dry bag / zip pouches for dust and sudden showers

Offline maps; event schedule screenshots

How to Read the Schedule (and Not Miss the Good Stuff)

Anchor your days around a headliner (kok boru, er enish, wrestling finals).

Pair big matches with nearby culture (e.g., Hippodrome finals + lakefront sunset; Kyrchyn archery + yurt-craft demos).

Check the board at each venue each morning—updates happen.

Build buffer before opening/closing ceremonies; security + lines take time.

Safety, Health & Comfort

Altitude/Weather: The jailoo can be chilly even in sunshine; add layers before the shuttle heads up.

Hydration & food: Eat small and often; try everything, but pace rich meats if you’re not used to them.

Facilities: Expect a mix of porta potties and squat toilets; have TP and hand gel.

Wildlife & dogs: Festival areas are busy and safe; give working eagles and taigan dogs space.

Choosing Tours, Drivers & Guides

TopicAsk ThisGreen-Flag Answer Looks LikeDriver to Kyrchyn“Price each way? Wait time included?”Clear round-trip rate, waiting included or per-hour rate statedShuttle Info“First/last departure? Frequency?”Printed or posted timetable; staff confirm last busYurt Visit“Hosted by local family? How long?”Named host family; 20–40 min welcome with teaCraft Demo“Hands-on? Price of materials?”You make something small; transparent costsSide Trips“What’s included?”Transport, entrance fees, lunch noted; return time clear

Micro-Itineraries You Can Copy

Two Days Focused on Sport

Day 1 – Horsepower & Hype

Morning: Kok boru qualifiers at Hippodrome (arrive early to watch warm-ups).

Midday: Food-stall lunch (manty + tea).

Afternoon: Er enish (wrestling on horseback).

Evening: Lakefront walk in Cholpon-Ata; quick visit to petroglyph field if time allows.

Day 2 – Grip & Grit

Morning: Mas-wrestling and kuresh finals at Gazprom Centre.

Midday: Café break; try lagman or kuurdak.

Afternoon: Doton… just kidding—back to the Hippodrome for horse races.

Evening: Street snacks; early night if you’re catching dawn shuttles to Kyrchyn.

Two Days Culture-Forward

Day 1 – Kyrchyn Immersion

Early shuttle up the valley.

Yurt-building demo, archery, wandering crafts camps; talk to instrument makers.

Afternoon: Salbuurun (eagle/falconry + taigan dog runs).

Golden hour: Music and dance at the main stage; shuttle down.

Day 2 – Town & Traditions

Morning: Rukh Ordo + lake boat ride (weather-dependent).

Afternoon: Return to Kyrchyn for performances you missed; late lunch with boorsok and tea.

Sunset: Last light over the meadow; pack layers for the ride.

One-Week Kyrgyzstan Add-On

Days 1–3: World Nomad Games (mix sport + Kyrchyn).

Day 4: Karakol for Dungan cuisine and wooden cathedral/mosque.

Day 5–6: Song-Kol horse trek and yurt stay (alpine meadows, unreal stars).

Day 7: Return toward Bishkek via Burana Tower (Silk Road history).

Save-This Checklist

Accommodation booked early (Games week fills quickly).

Arrival transfer to Cholpon-Ata arranged.

Ceremony tickets (if required) confirmed.

Daily plan with one anchor event + one cultural block.

Shuttle times to Kyrchyn saved; last bus highlighted.

Day pack ready: water, SPF, hat, fleece, shell, TP, sanitizer, cash.

Offline maps; schedule screenshots; key phrases downloaded.

Side trip penciled in (Shirak… Song-Kol… Karakol).

Small thank-you gifts (postcards/candy) for hosts.

12-Question World Nomad Games FAQ

Are the events really free?Historically, most competitions have been free to attend; opening/closing ceremonies may require tickets. Always confirm the current edition’s policy and how to secure seats.

Where should I base myself?Cholpon-Ata works best for most visitors: you’re near the Hippodrome and transport to other venues. If you’ll spend multiple days on the jailoo, consider a stay en route to Kyrchyn.

How do I get to the Kyrchyn Jailoo without a car?Use the official shuttles (check first/last departures). Taxis and shared cars also run the route—agree on a round-trip price and waiting time.

Is kok boru upsetting to watch?It’s a deep-rooted pastoral sport where a slaughtered animal is used as part of the game and consumed afterward by the winning team/community. If the tradition isn’t for you, focus on horse races, wrestling, archery, and cultural events—you’ll still have a full experience.

What should I wear on the jailoo?Layers. Think sun hat + T-shirt + fleece + rain shell. Closed shoes for mud/uneven paths. Temperatures swing quickly at altitude.

Can I bring kids?Yes. Open spaces, music, horses, and eagles captivate little ones. Pack snacks, sunscreen, and warm layers; plan bathroom breaks at venues with better facilities.

How do I avoid missing headline events?Pick one anchor event/day, arrive early, and check the update boards. Keep a “float day” for reschedules or finals you didn’t expect to love.

Is English widely spoken?In festival areas you’ll meet volunteers with some English or Russian. Learn a few Kyrgyz phrases and carry translation apps; smiles + hand gestures work wonders.

What are respectful photo practices?Ask before portraits, especially of elders and artisans. Inside yurts, follow your host’s lead. Avoid flash during performances.

What’s the food situation?Plenty of food stalls at major venues. Expect meats, noodles, dumplings, breads, tea. Cash is king; carry small bills.

How early should I book accommodation?As early as possible once dates are announced—the lakefront fills first. Consider guesthouses slightly inland if you’re late to the party.

What else should I see nearby?Rukh Ordo and the petroglyph field around Cholpon-Ata, Karakol for architecture and cuisine, Song-Kol for yurt treks, and Issyk-Kul boat rides for lake views.

This trip was made possible with the support of Discover Kyrgyzstan and USAID. As always, all opinions expressed here are my own.

And that's a quick intro to the World Nomad Games in Kyrgyzstan. I hope this guide will come in handy for anyone thinking of attending the games which are held every two years, but if you have any other questions in the meantime, feel free to leave those in the comments below.

Would you attend the World Nomad Games?


Your Wroclaw Travel Guide for the Perfect Weekend Escape

First things first, let's start with the name: Wroclaw. This city's name has baffled many a tourist and surely also left many locals shaking their heads in disapproval. Wroclaw is not pronounced raw-claw, but rather vrots-whaf. Confusing, I know. Tricky name aside, Wroclaw turned out to be yet another beautiful city to explore, and it made me glad that Sam and I decided to dedicate a whole month to travel in Poland. The following is a travel guide to some of our favourite things to do in Wroclaw!

Wroclaw Travel Guide: Things to Do, See, Eat, Drink & Experience in Wroclaw, Poland

Explore Cathedral Island on foot

Let's kick things off on Cathedral Island, which is the site of the city's oldest settlement. Though the river's flow has changed since Cathedral Island got its name (it hasn't been an island for a very long time!), it still sits by the river's edge and it's a nice place to explore on foot.

Cathedral Island is home to several churches and religious institutions including the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist, the Church of the Holy Cross, and the Archbishop’s Palace.

Also, I can't believe I missed this, but while on Cathedral Island, you can visit the Botanical Gardens. They are a little bit hidden from view, so they are easy to miss with the churches dominating the cityscape, but you'll find the gardens only a couple of lanes north of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist.

Enjoy a boat cruise down the Oder River

A river cruise is a super relaxed way to see the city from a different vantage point, and when you have a city as picturesque as Wroclaw, it seemed like a no-brainer to hop aboard.

Most cruises depart from a small dock just before you cross over to Cathedral Island, and they leave quite frequently so it's easy to show up and get a ticket on the spot.

I can't say I understood a single word of the Polish narration, but I enjoyed the cruise nevertheless. We had sunshine and blue skies, and that was enough for me.

Visit the University of Wroclaw for city views

Wroclaw has a charming University Quarter, which is located on the north end of the Old Town, and I think it's well worth the visit even if you're no longer a student.

Within the University Quarter, you'll find the University of Wroclaw, whose claim to fame is Aula Leopoldina, a ceremonial hall done in the Baroque Style. I had seen photos of the pastel ceilings and hand-carved cherubs online and I immediately wanted to visit this place for myself. Unfortunately, on the first day we visited, the university was not open to the public, and on the second attempt, the hall was blocked off to visitors. Two strikes!

I may not have gotten to see one of the most beautiful university halls in Europe, but the Mathematical Tower was open, so we climbed to the top for views of the city. The terrace has a height of 42 meters, which may not sound like a lot, but you can look out over the Old Town and across the Oder River.

Peek inside a Baroque-Rococo church

While wandering around Wroclaw's University Quarter, we also came upon the Parish of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, which is right next to the university's main entrance.

The church is done in the Baroque-Rococo style (read: as grand and exaggerated as possible!), so I felt a little better about not seeing Aula Leopoldina because this gave me a little taste of what it must be like.

Admission to the church is free of charge, though donations are welcome, and once you’re in, don’t forget to look up!

Enjoy the beauty of a secret courtyard

Another pleasant surprise in Wroclaw was the Ossolineum. This building was originally a hospital and convent, then a college, and now it's home to the Ossolineum Library.

We didn't realize what we had wandered into at the time - we just knew we found a cute cobbled courtyard surrounded by hydrangeas, mirrored windows, and benches - and since an older couple was enjoying the serenity of the place, we figured it must be open to the public and sauntered in.

This place may not be a secret to the locals, but we couldn't find it online or in our guidebook, so it felt like a little secret to us. Ahhh, why can we only find places like this in Europe?!

Go in search of Wroclaw's dwarves

Before visiting Wroclaw, I had read that there were little statues of dwarves scattered across the city (over 300 of them to be precise!) and it didn't take long after arriving to start noticing them. Even on the walk from the train station to the Old Town, I managed to spot a group of dwarf statuettes on the ledge of an office building.

The idea behind the dwarves is to commemorate Orange Alternative, a Polish anti-communist underground movement which started in Wrocław and used the dwarf as its symbol. In 2001, a decade after the collapse of the Soviet Union, the first dwarf went up on Świdnicka Street, then another in 2003, and then a few more were commissioned in 2005. Fast-forward a few years, and now you can find them every few streets!

I was perfectly content to chance upon the dwarves as I did my sightseeing around Wroclaw, but if you're up for a scavenger hunt, you can use this gnome map on your phone and try to find as many as possible.

Admire the architecture around Market Square

We also visited Market Square which is a medieval square surrounded by beautiful buildings that range from Gothic to Art Nouveau styles and are painted in the most cheerful of colours. It's crazy to think that almost everything you see in and around the square had to be rebuilt from the ground up after the Siege of 1945. The major landmark in Market Square is the Old Town Hall, a Gothic structure that now houses the Museum of Bourgeois Art.

Shop for fresh produce at Hala Targowa

Whether you're renting an apartment and looking to prepare a meal at home or planning a little picnic to enjoy at a local park, Hala Targowa is a really cool market to visit.

For starters, the interior of the building kind of reminds me of the shell of a cathedral, but what caught my attention was the rainbow of produce available, and at such great prices too!

There were so many stands with trays of blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, lingonberries - pretty much every berry under the sun - not to mention all the other fresh fruits and vegetables. But that's not all, you can also buy baked goods, deli meats, and even pick up the odd souvenir or two.

Where to stay in Wroclaw

Wroclaw has a variety of accommodations to fit every budget, ranging from hostels to B&Bs and hotels. We stayed at an AirBnB right in the heart of the Old Town and we found that most listings offered great value. You can find entire homes and apartments for $25-50 per night, and much lower if you’re just looking for a private room in someone’s home. The key is to book well in advance so you have a good selection to choose from!

Eating, Drinking & Getting Around: Wrocław Weekend

72-Hour Wrocław “Greatest-Hits” Itinerary

TimeDay 1 – Old Town CharmsDay 2 – Islands & CultureDay 3 – Day-Trip or Hipster Haunts09:00Pierogi breakfast at KonspiraCoffee at Bracia Ziółko (Nadodrze)Train to Świdnica (Peace Church) or rent city bike10:00Free walking tour departs RynekCathedral Island churches + Botanic GardenCycle the Odra river embankments12:30Lunch: bar-mleczny classics at BazyliaCross Tumski Bridge—search for love-padlock dwarfLunch-to-go from Hala Targowa14:00Climb St. Elizabeth Tower for skyline shotsAula Leopoldina / Mathematical Tower vantageHydropolis interactive water museum16:00Dwarf-spotting & Ossolineum courtyard chillSunset Oder cruise + riverside craft-beer barStreet art walk in Nadodrze (Łokietka & Rydygiera)19:00Dinner on market-square terracesPierniki (gingerbread) workshop at Art HotelFarewell feast at Kurna Chata (giant platters!)22:00Cocktails at GinBar or Nietota clubJazz jam in Vertigo cellarLate-night zapiekanka snack, Szewska St.

Swap days to match weather; the Rynek and islands look jaw-dropping in golden light.

Local Transport Hacks

ModePriceQuick TipsTram & Bus4.60 PLN single ride (valid 30 min); 15 PLN 24 hTap contactless card on yellow validator—no physical ticket printed.WRM City Bikes (Nextbike)First 20 min free, then 2 PLN / 40 minStations every 400 m; perfect for hops between islands.Regional Rail17 PLN return to Świdnica, 25 PLN to Książ CastleBuy via Koleo app; show QR code on train.Bolt / UberBase fare ~7 PLNCheaper than city taxis late at night, but trams run until midnight.

Airport ⇆ centre: Bus 106 (day) or 206 (night) in 35 min, 4.60 PLN; taxis ≈ 55 PLN.

Where (and What) to Eat

MealGo-To SpotMust-OrderBreakfastCharlotte (Świdnicka)Kajzerka rolls with house-made raspberry jam & hot chocolate served in bowls.Mid-morning pick-me-upEtno Café (in the OVO building)Aeropress single-origin + cynamonka bun.LunchPrzedwojenna (standing bar)4 PLN shot of żurawina vodka + herring on rye = local classic.Vegan optionKrowarzywaSeitan “pastrami” burger with beetroot-horseradish mayo.Afternoon sweetNananRose-petal eclair—Instagram legend, but worth the hype.Dinner splurgeCzajownia (tea house + pan-Asian plates)Peking-duck bao with genmaicha brew.Budget eatsBar Mleczny MiśHearty żurek soup in bread bowl, 12 PLN.

Craft-Beer & Nightlife Trail

Browar Stu Mostów – award-winning microbrewery; book a Saturday tour for tasters straight from the tanks.

Kontynuacja – 17 taps rotating Baltic porters and hazy IPAs; order the local “WRCLW” series.

Whiskey in the Jar – rock bar on the Rynek, giant Mason-jar cocktails with sparklers—touristy but fun.

Targowa – Craft Beer & Food – set inside Hala Targowa’s attic; pairs smoked ribs with barleywine.

Tip: Many bars add 10 % to outdoor-heating tables in winter; check menu footnotes.

Festivals & Seasonal Specials

SeasonEventWhy GoMayJuwenalia (student carnival)Free concerts, giant water-fight on Wyspa Słodowa.JuneWrocław Non-StopTheatre, dance, light-mapping shows around Rynek.OctoberGuitar Guinness Record DayThousands play “Hey Joe” together; grab a rental guitar and join!Nov–DecJarmark Bożonarodzeniowy Christmas MarketMulled mead, dwarven gingerbread huts and a fairy-tale Ferris wheel.

Day-Trip Ideas If You Stretch to 3–4 Nights

DestinationTravel TimeHighlightŚwidnica1 h by trainUNESCO-listed timber Church of Peace; stop for coffee at Café Figa.Książ Castle & Wałbrzych1.5 h + busPink-walled château over the Pełcznica gorge, WWII tunnels.Moszna Castle2 h 2099 turrets straight out of Hogwarts; hire costume for goofy photos.Żytnia Forest Bison Centre1 h 40See Europe’s heaviest land mammals, then kayak the Barycz Valley.

Pack snacks—regional trains have no catering.

Budget Snapshot (48 hrs for 2 people)

ItemCost (PLN)USD*Airbnb Old-Town studio (2 nts)38095Airport bus + 24-h transit passes4611Two days’ food (mix of milk-bar & mid-range)30075River cruise (2 tickets)12030University tower + church donations5012Craft-beer crawl (4 bars)14035Total1 036 PLN≈ 258 USD

*Conversion 1 USD = 4 PLN.

Wrocław FAQ: 12 Smart Answers for a Perfect Weekend in Poland’s “City of Dwarfs”

How do you pronounce “Wrocław,” and what’s the local vibe?

Say “vrots-wahf.” It’s a lively, student-filled city with islands on the Oder River, storybook townhouses around the Rynek (Market Square), and 300+ whimsical dwarf statues scattered across sidewalks and doorways.

What’s the best time of year for a weekend trip?

May–September is warm and café-terrace friendly; December brings a superb Christmas market. Shoulder seasons (Apr/Oct) mean fewer crowds and lower prices—pack a light jacket.

Where should I stay for a short break?

Stay in or near the Old Town/Rynek for walkability (Cathedral Island, university quarter, trams, restaurants). Nadodrze is a hip alternative for street art and indie cafés, a 10–15-minute stroll from the center.

What are the absolute must-dos in 48 hours?

Cathedral Island (Ostrów Tumski): bridges, gas-lamplighters at dusk, Botanic Garden nearby.

University of Wrocław: climb the Mathematical Tower for views; check if Aula Leopoldina is open.

Oder River cruise: golden-hour panoramas.

Rynek & Old Town Hall: Gothic gem + pastel facades.

Dwarf-spotting: use the gnome map and turn it into a scavenger hunt.

Ossolineum courtyard: serene “secret” garden feel.

How do I find the famous dwarves (krasnale)?

You’ll spot them organically, but for a game plan, search for the official dwarf map/app and aim for clusters around the Rynek, Świdnicka, and Cathedral Island bridges. Each statue has a name and backstory tied to local life.

Can I visit Aula Leopoldina? It was closed when some travelers went.

Hours vary for ceremonies/maintenance. Check the university’s site or ticket desk the morning of your visit and ask specifically about Aula Leopoldina and the Mathematical Tower; if closed, the nearby Parish of the Most Holy Name of Jesus offers gorgeous Baroque-Rococo interiors.

What’s a good 2-day itinerary?

Day 1: Old Town walking tour → St. Elizabeth Tower (or Uni tower) → dwarf hunt → Rynek museums → dinner + craft-beer crawl.Day 2: Cathedral Island churches + Botanic Garden → Ossolineum courtyard → Oder cruise at sunset → Hala Targowa snacks and souvenirs.

Any day-trip ideas if I add a third day?

Świdnica (≈1 h by train): UNESCO Church of Peace.

Książ Castle (via Wałbrzych): clifftop chateau and park.

Hydropolis (in Wrocław): interactive water museum—great for families or rainy spells.

How do I get around (and from the airport)?

Trams/buses are frequent; tap your contactless card on the yellow validator (no paper ticket printed). Bus 106/206 links the airport and center (~35 min). Rideshares (Bolt/Uber) are inexpensive late at night.

What and where should I eat?

Hala Targowa: fruits, breads, deli snacks.

Bar mleczny (milk bars): budget Polish classics (żurek, pierogi, schabowy).

Cafés & sweets: Nanan for éclairs; Charlotte for breakfast.

Craft beer: Browar Stu Mostów, Kontynuacja. Vegans: Krowarzywa.

Typical prices I should expect?

Airbnb studios $30–70/night, tram single ride ~4.60 PLN, museum towers ~10–20 PLN, sit-down mains 30–60 PLN, coffee 10–18 PLN, river cruise 50–70 PLN. Cards widely accepted; keep small cash for markets.

Any quick etiquette or practical tips?

Churches and some halls require quiet dress and decorum; photo rules vary—check signs. In peak season, reserve sunset cruises and popular cafés. Sundays can be slower for shops; museums often close one weekday—check hours.

Read more about Poland

A Polish Pierogi Cooking Class

Foodie Guide to Warsaw's Restaurants

Fun Things to Do in Warsaw

Wroclaw Weekend Guide

Day Trip to Sopot from Gdansk

Best Things to Do in Krakow

Fun Things to Do in Wroclaw

What to See in Poznan on Your Visit

Things to do in Gdansk

A Day in Malbork: The Largest Castle in the World!