Discover the best things in Linz in Austria, with this comprehensive guide for its top attractions and sights. Explore the Austrian best secret and truly hidden gem with my personal recommendations.
When I first told people to go to Linz, I got a lot of empty views. And I have to be honest that I have never heard of Linz, despite being the third biggest Austria.
When it comes to Austria, we all did it. We tend to focus on well -known cities like Vienna, Salzburg or Graz. So I'm really excited to share this truly hidden gem, which I think deserves a lot more attention.
So, here's a guide to help you take your visit to the utmost, with unimaginable places to visit and the things you need to do in Linz, even if you have a short time.
Where is Linz?
For those who are still wondering where this Austrian jewel is, Linz is Upper AustriaJust at the heart of Europe. It is located along the Danube River, about halfway between Salzburg and Vienna, which makes it ideal stops if you explore Austria by train or car.
The city is incredibly well connected, with direct trains in the capital of European cities, and only a two -hour flight from London with Ryanair. Linz may push away from a typical tourist track, but it's really easy to get available.
Why visit Linz?
Linz is a city that is undeservedly neglected. Caldrm streets like fairy tales, marvelous cafes and lavish pastel colors make up a beautiful and charming city. But Linz is much more than beautiful buildings and streets.
The city was recognized as part of the UNESCO network of creative cities in 2014, and was the European Capital of Culture in 2009.
There are several world class museums, including fantastic thoughts Ars Electronica CenterOne of the best museums that I was recently, as well as the centuries -old history I discovered.
That's something I loved with Linz. One moment you are exploring medieval streets, and you are the following immersed in interactive AI technology.
But the best part is that Linz is still under the tourist radar, so you will enjoy these incredible experiences without crowds.
Even during the top summer season, when the weather is on the warmest, and the city is the most beautiful (from May to September absolutely perfect), you will not feel overwhelmed by people.
Where to stay in Linz
Linz has accommodation options for each budget and travel style, with most attractions within a pedestrian distance no matter where you deal with yourself.
Things to do in Linz
Explore the Old Town (Altstadt)
Something is absolutely mesmerizing in getting lost in the cobbled streets of Linz of the Old Town. You can really feel and breathe in the history of the city here.
Hauptplatz (main square) is a place where magic really happens. It is one of the largest closed squares in Austria, and sitting in one of the outdoor cafes with coffee, watching the world as passing through, has to get a sense of city arrivals and leave.
Baroque buildings here are full of history and I found myself looking constantly, revealing new architectural details with every view.
Don't rush with this part of your visit, the old town deserves to be slowly enjoying. I was a little tight on time and I really wish I could spend longer here.
Admire Mariondom (New Cathedral)
I heard Mariend before I saw him. As I wandered the streets of the old town, I heard this bell tune. It sounded great so I had to find out where he was coming from.
I quickly walked, trying to follow the sound until I turned the corner and saw the spy of the new cathedral, also known as Marienda, rising above the city. In front of me was the largest Austrian church, and the bells exploded and invited people to worship.
The new cathedral is really impressive and has a capacity for 20,000 people inside. Try to visit the afternoon to catch the light that shines through the stained glass. Unfortunately, I got there as the service began so I was not able to get inside.
Take the tram to Pöstlingberg
Pöstlingbergbahn is one of the purest iron railroads in the world, and the trip uphill is an adventure in itself. The brakes maintain that historical feeling, so you feel like you are traveling back with all fashion disadvantages.
As you climb more, the views of the linz and the Danube valley become absolutely spectacular.
At the top you will find a charming Basilica Pöstlingberg, which is a popular place for pilgrimage, and an attitude with a stunning view of Linz and the Danube. One day you can see miles via the Austrian village.
If you are traveling with your children, do not miss the ride to the Empire of Dwarf, Forest Animals and Fairy Tales on Grottenbahn.
May your mind blow in Ars Electronica Center
This was one of my favorite things in Linz. Ars Electronica Center is much more than a museum! It's more like a portal to the future.
I have never experienced anything like Ars Electronica Center, where art, technology and science gather in the most interesting ways that can be imagined.
Interactive exhibits here will cause everything you think you know about the world around us.
I spent a few hours experimenting with AI, exploring the fascinating topic of climate change and biotechnology and accepting the technologies that felt like they were straight from a scientific-fiction film.
Even if you are not particularly technological wit, this is a place fascinating. It is definitely worth spending a few hours for this experience. And be sure you don't miss the Digital experience of the Deep Space 8K. Mind blowing!
Dive into contemporary art at the Lentos Museum
The building of the Lentos Art Museum is a work of art itself. This striking glass structure glows at night in different colors, creating the most beautiful reflection on the Danube. But what is on the inside makes a visit really valuable.
Lentos has an amazing collection of modern and contemporary art, with works that have been extending from the early 1900s to the present. Their permanent collection includes works by artists such as Egon Schiele, Gustav Klimt and Andy Warhol among many others.
Each room naturally goes into the next, creating an easy journey through different artistic movements.
The museum is also hosting fantastic temporary exhibitions, so check what happens during your visit.
Try the Linz cake
You just can't leave Linz without trying out the most famous city export!
Linzer cakes are said to be the oldest cake recipe in the world, dating from 1653. So the authentic version tasting here is mandatory.
Take one of the traditional cafes in the old town. It's good to try Jindrak, a small local chain that makes the “original Linzer cake” for over 80 years.
Oilya, a pastry with almond flavored with the tip of the grid and filled with jam is a pure Austrian comfortable food at best. Now I really understand why Linzer cakes have been loved for centuries.
Have a refreshing drink at the Sandburg Beach Bar
This was such a wonderful surprise! Who would have thought you would find a beach with a bar along the Danube in the heart of Austria?
The Sandburg Beach Bar is an amazing tropical oasis with real sand, palm trees and the fastest vibration.
During the summer, this place comes to life with locals and visitors who rest in the beach chairs, sip cocktails and enjoy the fresh air along the river.
It is the perfect place to relax after a day of sightseeing, and the atmosphere is really casual and friendly.
Go shopping around Landstrasse and Bischofstrasse
Forget about the big chain store! Here you will discover Linz's right shopping.
If you enjoy shopping (who doesn't?), You will love to view independent boutiks, craft workshops and strange special stores set up by Landstrasse and Bischofstrasse.
Here you will find local crafts, Austrian design and unique findings that you will not see anywhere else.
Cruise with the Danube
Seeing Linza from the water gives you a completely different perspective on the city. Cruise river The Danube usually takes about 45 minutes, which in my opinion is a little short but still worth doing.
From the ship you can understand how beautifully city architecture frame the river, and you will get fantastic photos of the sky.
The cruise comment shares interesting stories about Linz's history and emphasizes landmarks that you may have missed from the ground level.
Walk the Danube
Enjoy a quiet walk along the Danube promenade, especially during the gold clock when the light hits in the water exactly.
The river is beautifully developed by walking and bicycle paths, parks and a lot of benches where you can sit and watch boats go through.
It is the perfect way to see the Austrians really live and relax.
Relax to DonauPark
This widespread Park of Rijeka is a place for the locals when the sun shines on Linz. Donaupark is where they come to run, they have family barbecues, playing frisbee or simply lie in the grass with a good book.
The park connects nicely to the Danube promenade, so you can easily combine a walk on the river with a serious relaxation time.
Like a large area of grass, there are many ripe trees that provide the perfect shade of sunny days, and views across the river are simply beautiful.
Where to eat in linz
Lentos Restaurant
Lentos Restaurant is a great place for lunch. Located at the Lent Museum, the outer terrace has an amazing view of the Danube.
I had a sea bass with mushroom risotto and it was so good! The fish was really fresh, and the risotto was perfectly cooked and extremely tasty.
Jack the Ripperl
Putted into a narrow side street outside Landstrasse, Jack The Ripperl has been open since 1974 and is a bit of an institution Linz. So much so that it has its small shop that sells merch and its own meat and dry edge sauces.
This is the place of the sky for meat lovers. Burgers, ribs and quesadillas are very popular in their different formats. Jack's original baby for babies with sweet potatoes and they were good good.
Their meat source from famous Öberiolocal network of farmers practicing sustainable agriculture.
How to get to Linz
Arrival to Linz is surprisingly simple, whether you come from Austria or international destinations. The city sits perfectly located along the Danube River, making it easily accessible to multiple transportation opportunities.
By air: Linz (LNZ) Airport offers direct flights from several European cities, including a new route from London Stanted with Ryanair.
> Check out the best offers to fly with Skyscanner here
Train: Linz Hauptbahnhof is unnoticed by the excellent rail network of Austria. Direct trains start regularly from Vienna (2.5 hours), Salzburg (1.5 hours) and Graz (3 hours). International ties from Germany, Switzerland and other neighboring countries are also common.
By car: A1 Autobahn makes it easier to drive from Vienna or Salzburg. Just keep in mind that downtown parking is available, but it can be expensive.
By river: For a unique experience of arrival, the Danube River Krstari immediately in the heart of Linz, offering an amazing view of the old town as you approach.
The final thought of Linz
What I loved most about Linz is how authentic it feels. This city is not polished for tourists. It is a real place where people work, play and move into everyday life.
You will find yourself talking to friendly locals, revealing hidden corners that are not in any guide and experience Austria in a way that feels truly special.
My upper advice? Don't try to run through everything in one day if you can. Linz is made for slow research and spontaneous discoveries. Take the time to sit in a cafe, start conversations and let the city be discovered naturally.
Still, I hope you thought my guide for things in Linz is useful and helps you to take the best time in this Austrian hidden gem.
Read my other travel articles to Austria
Do you have any questions about things to do in Linz?
Let me know in the comments!
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Discovering: This post was created as a partnership with Visit Linz and Upper Austria. As always, all my views are.
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