The charming small town of Retz, nestled in the Weinviertel region of Lower Austria and just a stone's throw from the Czech border, enchants visitors with its picturesque main square, one of Europe’s largest labyrinthine wine cellars, and Austria’s last operational windmill. A hub for wine culture and production, Retz draws visitors with its delightful wine experiences, stunning views of rolling hills, and close proximity to the breathtaking Thayatal National Park.
Location
Retz is located in the northwestern part of Lower Austria, just 80 kilometers from Vienna and near the Czech border. The town is easily accessible by car or train, especially via the historic Northwest Railway, making it an ideal base for day trips or a peaceful short getaway.
Top Highlights of Retz
Retz Altstadt Windmühle
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
High above the wine town of Retz stands one of the last two functioning windmills in Austria - an impressive tower structure in Dutch style with four powerful sails. The stone mill, built in 1853 to replace an older wooden structure from the 18th century, was in operation until 1924 and has been a protected monument since 1928.
Retz Stadt Haus Hauptplatz 02 und 34
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
In the main square of Retz stands the impressive Verderberhaus, a Renaissance building from the 16th century with a Venetian facade and a distinctive crenellated crown. This multi-part complex was created from three Gothic houses and is named after the Verderber brothers—merchants from the Slovenian Gottschee region who came to Retz in the early 19th century. On the central facade, you will find an inscription from 1583 with the name Hanns Fierenz von Goerz, surrounded by lion figures and coats of arms, while a statue of Mary from the 18th century has found its place in a niche.
Rathaus Retz
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
The impressive Rathaus Retz has combined city government and chapel under one roof since the 16th century - an architectural feature that developed over several construction phases. The 57-meter-high tower with its Renaissance dome still shapes the skyline of the main square in this Lower Austrian town today.
Schloss Gatterburg
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
In the southeastern part of the historic old town of Retz, the protected Gatterburg Castle stands, which has a rich history. After the original Althof Castle was destroyed by the Hussites in the 15th century, Nikolaus Bethlen had a Gothic city palace built on this site.
Calvary of Retz
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
On the historic Calvary Hill by the Retzer Windmill, you will find an extraordinary Stations of the Cross from the early 18th century. Unlike typical Stations of the Cross, this Calvary, created by Jakob Seer in 1726/27 from Zogelsdorfer stone, follows the mysteries of the Sorrowful Rosary.
Retz Altstadt Kirche
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
The Catholic parish church of St. Stephen showcases a rich history from the 12th to the 18th century in its current form: On the foundations of a Romanesque, later Gothic church, the impressive Baroque structure you can admire today was built after a fire in 1645.
Znaimertor
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
The impressive Znaimertor is one of the two preserved medieval city gates of Retz and was built around 1300 as part of the city fortifications. The distinctive tower, which has had a clock and bell since the 16th century, is crowned by a characteristic double-headed eagle on its roof.
City wall of Retz
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
The "Retz City Fortifications" encompass the old town in the municipality of Retz in the district of Hollabrunn in Lower Austria. The preserved city walls and towers have been under monument protection since 1923.
Kriegerdenkmal 1809
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
The "Kriegerdenkmal 1809" originated from an initiative by the veterans' association in Retz, Lower Austria. In 1906, the idea arose to erect a new monument in place of the so-called French Cross from 1809.
[http://www.retz.gv.at/gemeindeamt/download/Retzaktuelljuli09.pdf "Retz aktuell Nr. 07/09"]
Pfarrkirche Unternalb
Retz, Lower Austria, Austria
The "Pfarrkirche Unternalb" is located at the southeastern end of the Anger in the village of Unternalb in the municipality of Retz, in the district of Hollabrunn, Lower Austria. The Roman Catholic parish church, dedicated to St. Lawrence of Rome, is incorporated into the Abbey of Göttweig and belongs to the Deanery of Retz-Pulkautal in the Vicariate Under the Manhartsberg of the Archdiocese of Vienna. The former fortified church is a protected monument.
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Best Activities
The Old Town
At the heart of Retz lies the main square, one of Austria’s largest marketplaces. Framed by magnificent historic buildings like the Town Hall and the Sgraffito House, the square radiates the charm of bygone centuries. Beneath the town stretches an extensive network of wine cellars—one of the largest in Central Europe. Taking a guided tour of the labyrinthine Retz Erlebnis Cellar is undoubtedly one of the best experiences the town has to offer.
Another architectural highlight is the Verderberhaus, a Renaissance building from the 16th century with an impressive Venetian-style façade.
Wine and Indulgence
Retz is synonymous with wine. The rolling hills of the region are blanketed with vineyards, and countless traditional wine taverns (Heurige) invite you to sample the local varieties, including Grüner Veltliner and Zweigelt. The combination of outstanding wine, hearty local cuisine, and the picturesque landscape makes Retz a haven for wine enthusiasts. A visit during the Wine Days in June or the Harvest Festival in late September is especially worthwhile, as the town transforms into a lively stage with colorful parades, tastings, and live music.
Nature and Hiking
Retz is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of trails surrounded by picturesque vineyards and lush forests, perfect for both leisurely strolls and more demanding hikes.
The Retz Circular Hiking Trail (15.3 km) takes you through vineyards, forests, and past the iconic windmill, offering a true taste of the region's beauty.
The Kellergassen Circular Hiking Trail (8.7 km) showcases the historic cellar lanes and the rich winemaking traditions of the area.
The Thayatal National Park, one of Europe’s most breathtaking and biodiverse valley landscapes, invites you to explore untouched nature, meandering river loops of the Thaya, and rare wildlife and plant species.
For a quick breath of fresh air, the Golitsch Trail (3.9 km) is ideal – an easy walk with stunning views.
Experienced hikers will find a rewarding challenge on the Eastern Austrian Border Trail (Long-Distance Trail 07), which also passes through Retz.
Additional Attractions
Just a short walk from the town center lies the Windmill of Retz, Austria's last operational windmill. It not only offers breathtaking views of the surrounding vineyards but also provides a glimpse into the art of traditional grain processing from days long past.
Another must-see is the Dominican Church and its adjoining monastery, a striking masterpiece of Baroque architecture.
Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Retz is between May and September, when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal.
May: Comfortable temperatures and blooming landscapes.
June to August: The warmest months, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities.
September: Mild temperatures and the start of the grape harvest.
Getting There
Retz is easily accessible by public transportation or car.
By Train
Hourly trains run from Vienna via Floridsdorf, Korneuburg, Stockerau, and Hollabrunn to Retz. The journey takes about an hour. The Retz train station is just an 8-minute walk from the main square and the old town.
By Car
From Vienna: Reach Retz in one to two hours via the A22 and S3/B303.
From Linz: Take the A1 and S33 towards Krems (St. Pölten junction) to arrive in Retz.
Getting Around
Retz and the surrounding vineyards are best explored on foot. For longer distances, bicycle rental stations are available. Additionally, the Retzer Land Guest Taxi provides convenient transport within the region.
Please note that timetables may vary.
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Events
Retz thrives on its traditions and festivals. The annual Grape Harvest Festival at the end of September is a spectacle featuring parades, music, and, of course, excellent wine. During the summer, the Retz Wine Days, a ten-day celebration of wine, are a major highlight.
