Best places to visit in Linz, Austria

Linz, the third-largest city in Austria, is a vibrant cultural hub known for its blend of historical charm and modern innovation. Situated along the Danube River, Linz offers a rich array of experiences, from exploring its historic old town to enjoying its cutting-edge arts and technology scene. As a UNESCO City of Media Arts, Linz is renowned for its dynamic cultural festivals and contemporary art installations. Whether you’re interested in history, technology, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty of the Danube, Linz has something to offer. Here are some of the best places to visit in Linz, Austria:

Best Places to Visit

1. Ars Electronica Center

Known as the “Museum of the Future,” the Ars Electronica Center is a cutting-edge museum dedicated to media arts, technology, and science. The center offers interactive exhibits, workshops, and presentations that explore topics such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and digital art. The building itself is a modern architectural landmark, especially striking at night when it is illuminated. The museum is an excellent destination for visitors of all ages, offering a hands-on experience with the technologies shaping our future.

Key Attractions: Interactive exhibits, media arts, technology.
Activities: Exploring exhibits, workshops, presentations.
Location: Ars-Electronica-Straße 1, 4040 Linz.

2. Linz Old Town (Altstadt)

The historic Old Town of Linz is a picturesque area characterized by its charming streets, colorful buildings, and significant landmarks. The Hauptplatz (Main Square) is one of the largest squares in Austria and is surrounded by beautiful Baroque buildings. Key sites in the Old Town include the Old Cathedral (Alter Dom), the New Cathedral (Neuer Dom), and the Linzer Schloss (Linz Castle), which offers stunning views of the city and the Danube River. The Old Town is also home to numerous cafes, shops, and restaurants, making it a perfect place to explore and relax.

Key Attractions: Hauptplatz, Linzer Schloss, Old Cathedral.
Activities: Sightseeing, shopping, dining.
Location: Central Linz.

3. Pöstlingberg

Pöstlingberg is a hill overlooking Linz, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding region. The Pöstlingbergbahn, one of the steepest adhesion railways in the world, takes visitors to the top, where they can explore the Pöstlingberg Church (Basilika), a pilgrimage site with beautiful baroque architecture. The Pöstlingberg also features the Grottenbahn, a fairytale-themed grotto railway perfect for families with children. The hilltop is an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, picnicking, or simply enjoying the scenic views.

Key Attractions: Panoramic views, Pöstlingbergbahn, Pöstlingberg Church.
Activities: Scenic railway ride, sightseeing, walking.
Location: Pöstlingberg, 4040 Linz.

4. Lentos Art Museum

The Lentos Art Museum is one of the most important modern art museums in Austria. Located along the Danube River, the museum’s sleek glass facade makes it a prominent architectural landmark. The museum’s collection includes works from the 19th century to contemporary art, featuring pieces by renowned artists such as Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka. Lentos also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it a dynamic cultural venue in Linz.

Key Attractions: Modern art, temporary exhibitions, architecture.
Activities: Art appreciation, museum visit.
Location: Ernst-Koref-Promenade 1, 4020 Linz.

5. Danube Park (Donaulände)

Danube Park, also known as Donaulände, is a beautiful riverside park that stretches along the banks of the Danube River. The park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering lush green spaces, walking paths, and recreational areas. It is also a hub for cultural activities, hosting open-air concerts, art installations, and festivals throughout the year. The park is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll, cycling, or enjoying a picnic by the river.

Key Attractions: Scenic river views, cultural events, green spaces.
Activities: Walking, picnicking, cultural events.
Location: Along the Danube River, 4020 Linz.

6. St. Florian Monastery

Located just outside Linz, the St. Florian Monastery is a stunning Baroque abbey with a rich history dating back to the 8th century. The monastery is known for its impressive architecture, beautiful frescoes, and the grand organ in the Abbey Church. The complex also houses a library with an extensive collection of manuscripts and books, as well as the tomb of the famous composer Anton Bruckner. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the monastery’s historic rooms, including the Marble Hall and the Imperial Apartments.

Key Attractions: Baroque architecture, Abbey Church, library.
Activities: Guided tours, historical exploration.
Location: Stiftstraße 1, 4490 St. Florian.

7. Botanical Garden

The Botanical Garden in Linz is one of the most beautiful gardens in Austria, featuring over 10,000 species of plants. The garden covers an area of 4.2 hectares and includes a variety of themed sections, such as alpine gardens, a rose garden, and tropical greenhouses. The garden is a peaceful oasis in the city, perfect for a leisurely stroll or enjoying the beauty of nature. It also hosts exhibitions and educational programs throughout the year.

Key Attractions: Diverse plant species, themed gardens, greenhouses.
Activities: Botanical exploration, walking, exhibitions.
Location: Roseggerstraße 20-22, 4020 Linz.

8. Linzer Torte Bakery

No visit to Linz is complete without tasting the famous Linzer Torte, one of the oldest known cakes in the world. The cake, made with a buttery crust filled with fruit jam and topped with a lattice design, is a local specialty. Visitors can enjoy a slice of Linzer Torte at various bakeries and cafes in the city. The Jindrak Bakery, in particular, is renowned for its traditional Linzer Torte recipe and offers a variety of other delicious pastries and cakes.

Key Attractions: Linzer Torte, traditional pastries.
Activities: Tasting Linzer Torte, enjoying local pastries.
Location: Various locations in Linz.

9. Brucknerhaus

The Brucknerhaus is a prominent concert hall in Linz, named after the famous composer Anton Bruckner. The venue hosts a wide range of musical performances, including classical concerts, jazz, and contemporary music. The Brucknerhaus is known for its excellent acoustics and modern architecture. It is also the main venue for the annual Bruckner Festival, which celebrates the works of Anton Bruckner and other classical composers.

Key Attractions: Concerts, music festivals, modern architecture.
Activities: Attending performances, cultural events.
Location: Untere Donaulände 7, 4010 Linz.

10. Mauthausen Memorial

The Mauthausen Memorial is a former concentration camp located near Linz, serving as a poignant reminder of Austria’s history during World War II. The memorial site includes a museum, the camp’s remains, and several monuments dedicated to the victims. Visitors can learn about the history of the camp and the atrocities committed there through informative exhibits and guided tours. The Mauthausen Memorial is an important site for reflection and education about the Holocaust.

Key Attractions: Historical exhibits, memorials, guided tours.
Activities: Historical exploration, educational visits.
Location: Erinnerungsstraße 1, 4310 Mauthausen.

Summary Table

Place	Description	Key Attraction	Location
Ars Electronica Center	Museum of the Future with interactive exhibits	Media arts, technology	Ars-Electronica-Straße 1, 4040 Linz
Linz Old Town	Historic area with colorful buildings	Hauptplatz, Linzer Schloss	Central Linz
Pöstlingberg	Hill with panoramic views and pilgrimage church	Pöstlingbergbahn, Pöstlingberg Church	Pöstlingberg, 4040 Linz
Lentos Art Museum	Modern art museum with a sleek glass facade	Contemporary art, exhibitions	Ernst-Koref-Promenade 1, 4020 Linz
Danube Park	Riverside park with green spaces and cultural events	Scenic views, open-air concerts	Along the Danube River, 4020 Linz
St. Florian Monastery	Baroque abbey with historic rooms	Abbey Church, Anton Bruckner’s tomb	Stiftstraße 1, 4490 St. Florian
Botanical Garden	Beautiful garden with diverse plant species	Themed gardens, greenhouses	Roseggerstraße 20-22, 4020 Linz
Linzer Torte Bakery	Traditional bakery known for Linzer Torte	Linzer Torte, pastries	Various locations in Linz
Brucknerhaus	Concert hall named after composer Anton Bruckner	Classical concerts, Bruckner Festival	Untere Donaulände

How to Reach Linz

By Plane

Linz Airport (LNZ), also known as Blue Danube Airport, is located about 13 kilometers southwest of the city center. The airport offers flights to and from several European cities. From the airport, travelers can reach the city center by taxi, bus, or shuttle service.

By Train

Linz Hauptbahnhof (Main Train Station) is a major railway hub with regular services to and from cities across Austria and Europe. The station is well-connected to public transportation, making it easy to access the city center and other destinations.

By Bus

Several bus companies operate routes to Linz, providing an affordable and convenient travel option. The bus station is located near the main train station, offering easy access to the city and its surroundings.

By Car

Linz is easily accessible by car, with well-maintained highways and roads connecting it to other major cities in Austria and Europe. Visitors can rent a car or hire a private driver to explore the city and its scenic surroundings.

Best Time to Visit Linz

The best time to visit Linz is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November), when the weather is mild and pleasant. These seasons are perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying cultural events. Summer (July to August) is warm and lively, with numerous festivals and activities along the Danube. Winter (December to February) offers a quieter experience, with the city’s Christmas markets and holiday festivities adding to the charm.

Travel Tips

Local Cuisine: Linz is known for its delicious Linzer Torte, as well as traditional Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Kaiserschmarrn. Be sure to try these local specialties at traditional restaurants and cafes.
Cultural Etiquette: Austrians value politeness and formality. Greet people with a handshake and use formal titles, especially with older adults. When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and be respectful.
Transportation: Linz has an efficient public transportation system, including trams, buses, and the Pöstlingbergbahn. Consider purchasing a Linz Card for unlimited travel and discounts on attractions.

Itinerary Suggestions

One-Day Trip

Morning: Start your day with a visit to the Ars Electronica Center, followed by a stroll through the Linz Old Town. Explore the Hauptplatz and visit the Linzer Schloss for panoramic views of the city.
Afternoon: Have lunch at a local restaurant in the Old Town, then take the Pöstlingbergbahn to Pöstlingberg. Explore the Pöstlingberg Church and enjoy the views. In the afternoon, visit the Lentos Art Museum to admire contemporary art.
Evening: Enjoy a traditional Austrian dinner at a riverside restaurant. End your day with a walk along the Danube Park, taking in the scenic river views.

Weekend Getaway

Day 1: Begin with visits to the Ars Electronica Center, Linz Old Town, and the Linzer Schloss. In the afternoon, explore the Botanical Garden and enjoy a peaceful walk. In the evening, attend a concert at the Brucknerhaus.
Day 2: Start with a morning visit to the St. Florian Monastery, exploring its beautiful architecture and historic rooms. In the afternoon, visit the Mauthausen Memorial for a sobering and educational experience. Conclude your trip with a visit to a traditional bakery to sample Linzer Torte and other local pastries.

Linz’s combination of historical sites, modern attractions, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination in Austria. Whether you’re exploring its rich cultural heritage, enjoying innovative technology exhibits, or simply relaxing by the Danube, Linz offers a diverse and enriching experience for every traveler.