Rust between the Old Town and Lake Neusiedl

Rust combines its historic, protected Old Town with its location on Lake Neusiedl. Its many facets can help you find the aspects of Rust that match your travel interests.

Old Town and city history

Rust’s entire Old Town is protected as a historic monument. In 2001, it was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List together with the Fertő-tó–Neusiedler See region. UNESCO describes Rust as an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement representative of the area.

The Fishermen’s Church is an important building in the history of art and culture in the free city of Rust. Its core is a Romanesque hall church dating from the 11th century. A historical city tour explains the town’s architectural development from fishing village to city; tour dates may vary.

The Kremayrhaus City Museum also offers an introduction to the town’s history. The museum is a town house dating from 1675 and presents Rust’s history, including its town charter and an executioner’s sword. Various exhibitions and events take place in the courtyard and wine cellar. Architectural history, historical objects and the town’s development from fishing village to city offer different ways to explore Rust’s past.

Lake Neusiedl and nature

Rust is right on Lake Neusiedl. The lake and the surrounding reed belt provide a protected habitat for numerous animal and plant species. The annual cycle of the white storks also offers a specific indication of timing: they arrive in Rust around 20 March and fly back to their wintering grounds in Africa at the end of August. The exact dates may vary from year to year.

Water activities and lido

Rust’s lido has a solar-heated leisure pool with various water features, water slides and a climbing island, as well as facilities for families. Opening dates may vary by season. The sailing and surfing school at the lido offers courses for children and adults, as well as for beginners and advanced participants. Check course availability before your trip.

The sheltered Bay of Rust offers suitable conditions for both beginner and experienced paddlers. Conditions depend on the weather and the state of the lake. The water-based activities therefore differ: the lido focuses on pools and water features, while paddling in the bay depends on the prevailing natural conditions.

Routes, harbour and local highlights

The B10 Lake Neusiedl Cycle Route is one of the cycling routes through the landscape around Rust. The Junior Trail is an easy hike suitable for children. Rust is also the starting point of the Furmint Trail. Funpark Rust covers 1,000 square metres and offers maintenance-free fun on wheels all year round.

Boat trips and bike ferries depart from Rust Harbour for the opposite shore. Timetables vary by season; check them before your trip. Another local highlight is Rust’s sweet wine DAC status: Rust is the only municipality in Austria with its own status of this kind. This protected wine designation adds to the town’s historic and scenic character.

For the broader travel overview: Burgenland.