Rust, the smallest statutory city in Austria, captivates with its picturesque location on the western shore of Lake Neusiedl. Known as the City of Storks, it charms visitors with its baroque old town and the iconic white storks nesting on its rooftops. Whether you’re strolling through the quaint streets of the small town, tasting the award-winning Ruster Ausbruch, or cycling through the scenic vineyards – Rust is a delightful destination for a day trip.
- What is a statutory city? Statutory cities enjoy extended self-governance compared to other towns or municipalities. With around 1,900 inhabitants, Rust holds the title of Austria’s smallest statutory city. This is quite unique, as such cities are typically larger, like Graz or Linz. Rust received this status due to its historical significance.
Top Highlights of Rust
Best Activities
A Stroll Through the Old Town
Take a moment to sit on a bench in Conradplatz. Let the sun warm your face as you soak in the peaceful atmosphere and watch the unhurried rhythm of daily life. There’s no rush here, no noise – just a serene energy that invites you to slow down and relax.
The City of Storks
Few moments are as delightful as sipping a glass of wine while watching these graceful creatures glide through the sky above. They bring a touch of wild beauty to Rust – something you won’t soon forget.
Wine and Cuisine
Speaking of wine – Rust is a city that lives and breathes it. Small wine cellars and welcoming vintners can be found at every turn, inviting you to step inside. Here, wine isn’t just enjoyed – it’s celebrated. The Ruster Ausbruch, a renowned sweet dessert wine, takes center stage, but the white wines and robust reds are equally good.
Pure Nature at Lake Neusiedl
Rust is a paradise for nature lovers and active travelers. Every path here leads to Lake Neusiedl. This shallow steppe lake, framed by swaying reeds, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes. If relaxation is what you’re after, the Seebad Rust is just the place for you. Unwind in the heated outdoor pool, or get active on the adventure slides and beach volleyball courts.
For those eager to explore, rent a bike and venture into the Ruster Hügelland, with its extensive network of hiking and cycling trails. Looking for a bit more excitement? Try stand-up paddling or windsurfing. Thanks to the lake’s shallow waters, even beginners can easily join in. Or simply take a seat by the shore and watch as the sun slowly dips behind the reeds, painting the sky in golden hues.
Warum Rust?
Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Rust is from May to August, when the storks are present, and the warm, sunny weather is ideal for exploring.
When Are the Storks in Rust?
From April to August. Starting in March, as winter’s chill begins to fade, the first storks return from their southern wintering grounds. They land gracefully on the red-tiled rooftops, settling into their nests as if they had never left. By mid-April, most pairs have claimed their spots, and from then on, Rust comes alive – quite literally.
If you visit between May and August, you’ll see them everywhere: perched high on chimneys, spreading their wings, or soaring over the town and Lake Neusiedl.
In August, the scene begins to shift. The young storks take their first practice flights, and start preparing for their long journey south. From mid-August, you can often watch them gathering in groups, circling high in the sky. Most storks leave Rust by the end of August, heading towards Africa.
In recent years, however, a few pairs have chosen to stay in Rust throughout the winter. It’s a sign of the town’s loving care and the subtle impact of a changing climate.
Getting There
By Public Transport
- Train & Bus: Trains from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof run to Eisenstadt, where bus lines 285 and 286 connect directly to Rust. Keep in mind that not all buses go all the way to Rust; a transfer in Eisenstadt may be required.
- Direct Bus: There are also direct bus connections from Vienna’s Hauptbahnhof to Rust. Check the current schedule, as not all buses operate without transfers.
By Car
- From Vienna: Take the A2 and A3 highways to the Eisenstadt junction. From there, switch to the S31 towards Eisenstadt. Exit at Eisenstadt-Mitte and continue on the B51, which leads straight to Rust.
- From Sopron (Hungary): Drive along Route 84 to the border and continue on the B16. At the roundabout in Siegendorf, turn right towards Sankt Margarethen. After reaching Sankt Margarethen, turn right onto the B51, which leads directly to Rust.
Parking Options
- Parking Lot P1 – Franz Josefs Platz: Located on Eisenstädterstraße, marked on the left as P1.
- Parking Lot P2 – Seezeile: Situated next to the Seehotel Rust. Access via Eisenstädterstraße to the intersection, then veer slightly left towards the lake.
- Parking Lot P3 – Am Hafen: Found on the left after Hotel Sifkovits and Katamaran on Seestraße; this area also includes the bus parking lot.
- Parking Lot – Setzgasse: Located next to the newly built police station by the historic city wall. Accessible via Eisenstädterstraße towards Mörbisch, then take the first left turn.
- Parking Lot – Beim Pulverturm: Positioned to the left of the Seehotel Rust. Access via Eisenstädterstraße to the intersection, then veer slightly left towards the lake.
Events
Although Rust is small, the city has plenty to offer. Throughout the year, concerts, exhibitions, and festivals bring life to the town. Particularly popular are the Guitar Festival in summer and the Rust Christmas Market, which transforms the old town into a festive winter wonderland. These events create a unique atmosphere that draws visitors from around the globe.