Stiftsbasilika Lilienfeld, Foto: Mag. Harald Schmid
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Lilienfeld Abbey

4.6
·570 reviews·Lilienfeld, Austria

A serene Cistercian monastery with a stunning historic church and a hidden library, offering peace and rich history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Stiftsbasilika Lilienfeld, Foto: Mag. Harald Schmid

Lilienfeld Abbey

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene Cistercian monastery with a stunning historic church and a hidden library, offering peace and rich history.

4.6
(570 reviews)

"Take the tour - you won't see the library otherwise, and it is a small gem."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Don't miss the guided tour to see the library and learn fascinating history!

🅿️ Convenient Parking

Ample parking is available behind the Stift, making arrival easy.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Church & Basilica

Historic Church & Basilica

Main Abbey Building

A beautiful and historic church, perfect for quiet contemplation and appreciating centuries of history.

Monastery Guided Tour

Monastery Guided Tour

Abbey Entrance

Discover the abbey's secrets, including the stunning library, on an informative and engaging guided tour.

Via Sacra Stopover

Via Sacra Stopover

Abbey Guesthouse

Basic, clean rooms offer a peaceful respite for hikers on the Via Sacra pilgrimage route.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Lilienfeld Abbey

Lilienfeld Abbey offers a serene escape with its historic church and monastery. Consider booking a guided tour to access hidden gems like the library. Parking is available behind the Stift, making it convenient for day-trippers.

Accommodation & Hiking Insights

For hikers on the Via Sacra, the abbey provides basic yet clean rooms. Enjoy the tranquility and consider joining the informative guided tour for a deeper understanding of this landmark.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon guided tours
Why
Access to library & insights
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

LONG LIVE DOWNTON ABBEY! #fyp #movies #downtonabbey #downtonabbeythegrandfinale #downtonabbeymovie
@guyinthechairreacts
511 likes • 10.5K views

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Don't miss the guided tour to see the library and learn fascinating history! Reddit

🅿️ Convenient Parking

Ample parking is available behind the Stift, making arrival easy. Reddit

What are the secrets of Stift Lilienfeld? Back in the abbey of Lilienfeld after what feels like an eternity on earth! I actually lived here as a monk, intending to offer my soul and heart to Lord Jesus! I really wanted to stay here, praying for the rest of my life! For one reason or another, I chose another path! Anyway, this ancient place of worship was my home for many years for other reasons! ...
markperry439
31 likes • 717 views
💆 this made me calm down so much. A place Where there is more time than elsewhere, clear water, fresh air, art and impressive architecture. 📍 be gentle to this untouched place: Lilienfeld abbey, Austria. Don’t miss the baroque library there. #baroqueblockbuster #baroque #niederösterreich #loweraustria #austria #österreich #europe #visiteurope
baroqueblockbuster
44.2K likes • 822.7K views

🚶‍♀️ Via Sacra Hikers Welcome

Basic, clean rooms offer a tranquil stopover for pilgrims. Reddit

⛪ Sunday Services

Experience the historic church by attending Sunday services. Reddit

Stift Lilienfeld und dahinter die „Teufelszunge“ (da wachsen einfach keine Bäume) Lilienfeld Abbey and behind it the “Devil’s Tongue” (no trees grow there)
natascha.82.s
2 likes • 228 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book a Guided Tour

Don't miss the guided tour to see the library and learn fascinating history! Reddit

🅿️ Convenient Parking

Ample parking is available behind the Stift, making arrival easy. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Via Sacra Hikers Welcome

Basic, clean rooms offer a tranquil stopover for pilgrims. Reddit

⛪ Sunday Services

Experience the historic church by attending Sunday services. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(570 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Lilienfeld Abbey to be a beautiful and interesting historic landmark, particularly praising the informative guided tours that reveal hidden gems like the library. It's also noted as a peaceful and clean place for overnight stays, especially for hikers on the Via Sacra.

"Nice and lovely place for a family visit"

Iryna Kulyk

"Interesting landmark. Big parking lot behind the Stift."

Natalia Khilkevitch

"Wonderful historic church. Spent few months in Lilienfeld. Visited the church on Sundays often."

Armen Parsighian

What People Like

Informative guided tours
Historic church beauty
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Basic accommodation amenities

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Lilienfeld Abbey is accessible by car, with a large parking lot located behind the Stift. Public transport options may involve regional buses or trains to Lilienfeld station, followed by a short walk or local bus. Check local transport schedules for the most up-to-date information.

Yes, there is a big parking lot conveniently located behind the Stift, making it easy for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

Absolutely! Lilienfeld Abbey is a wonderful destination for a day trip, offering historical insights and a peaceful atmosphere. The guided tours provide a great overview of its significance.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to the church itself is generally free, though donations are appreciated. However, to access certain areas like the library and to gain deeper insights into the abbey's history, a guided tour is required and will have a fee. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially for specific tours or areas within the abbey. It's best to check the official Lilienfeld Abbey website or contact them directly for the most current information on visiting hours and tour schedules.

Tour prices can vary. It's recommended to check the official Lilienfeld Abbey website for the most up-to-date pricing information for guided tours, which often include access to special areas like the library. Reddit

The library is a highlight and can only be visited as part of a guided tour. Many visitors highly recommend this tour for its informative content and access to this gem. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Visitors can explore the historic church and basilica, take an informative guided tour of the monastery (including the library), and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. It's also a popular stop for hikers on the Via Sacra. Reddit

Yes, Lilienfeld Abbey is considered a nice and lovely place for a family visit. The historical aspects and the serene environment can be engaging for various ages.

Photography policies can vary within religious and historical sites. It's advisable to check for any posted signs or inquire with abbey staff regarding restrictions on photography, especially inside the church or during tours.

Absolutely. Many visitors, including those staying overnight, highlight the silence and calmidity of the abbey as a significant positive aspect of their visit. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While the abbey itself might offer breakfast for overnight guests, specific dining facilities for day visitors may be limited. The town of Lilienfeld likely has local restaurants and cafes nearby for meals. Reddit

Guests who have stayed overnight report that the breakfast is good and plenty, offering a satisfying start to the day. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lilienfeld Abbey is a lovely spot for families looking for a blend of history and tranquility. The historic church offers a chance to discuss different eras and architectural styles with children. While the abbey is generally peaceful, the guided tour can be engaging for older children who can appreciate the stories and the hidden gems like the library. Ensure children are mindful of the quiet atmosphere, especially during services or tours. Reddit

For families traveling with young children, consider the accessibility of the grounds and any potential need for strollers. The ample parking makes arrival straightforward. If visiting during warmer months, the surrounding area might offer opportunities for outdoor exploration after your abbey visit. The overall experience is more about quiet appreciation than active entertainment, so manage expectations accordingly.

🚶‍♀️ Pilgrims & Hikers

For those walking the Via Sacra, Lilienfeld Abbey is a highly recommended stop. The abbey offers basic, clean, and spacious rooms for overnight stays, providing a much-needed rest. Reddit Many pilgrims appreciate the profound silence and calmidity of the abbey, finding it a perfect place for reflection and rejuvenation. Reddit

Don't miss the opportunity to take the guided tour during your stay. It's an informative experience that deepens the understanding of the abbey's significance and allows access to unique areas like the library. Reddit The breakfast provided for guests is also noted as being good and plentiful, ensuring you're well-fueled for the next leg of your journey. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the History and Architecture

Lilienfeld Abbey boasts a rich history dating back to its founding in the 13th century. As one of Austria's most significant Cistercian monasteries, its architecture reflects centuries of development and restoration. The Basilika, a stunning example of Gothic and Baroque influences, is a central point of interest for visitors. Its grandeur and historical significance make it a must-see for anyone interested in religious architecture and heritage.

The guided tours are highly recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the abbey's past. These tours often grant access to areas not typically open to the public, such as the exquisite library. This library is described as a 'small gem' by visitors, housing valuable manuscripts and offering a glimpse into the intellectual life of the monks throughout history. The tours provide context and stories that bring the stones and artworks to life, making the visit far more enriching. Reddit

Beyond the main church and library, the abbey complex itself offers a sense of peace and historical weight. For those undertaking the Via Sacra pilgrimage, the abbey provides a unique and tranquil overnight stay, offering a different perspective on its spiritual significance. The basic yet clean rooms and the overall calm atmosphere are frequently praised by hikers. Reddit

The Via Sacra Pilgrimage Route

Lilienfeld Abbey plays a notable role for pilgrims on the Via Sacra, a historic pilgrimage route leading towards Mariazell. The abbey offers a unique accommodation option for those walking the path, providing a peaceful and restorative stopover. Travelers have noted that the rooms are basic but very clean and spacious, offering a welcome respite from more rustic accommodations found along the trail. Reddit

Staying at the abbey allows pilgrims to experience its profound silence and tranquility, which is often highlighted as a major benefit. The opportunity to join the guided tour provides a deeper connection to the spiritual and historical significance of the site before continuing their journey. This blend of practical lodging and historical immersion makes Lilienfeld Abbey a memorable part of the Via Sacra experience for many. Reddit

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