city travel linz

Linz in Austria – Complete City Travel Guide

The city of linz austria, how to get to linz austria, when to go to linz in austria.

• What happens at each time of year:

Things to do in Linz Austria 

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Located in the Upper Austria region, Linz is the third largest city in the country, with just over 200 inhabitants. In 2009, it was chosen as the European capital of culture, and its diversity of museums and installations shows this well.

Linz is excellent for those who enjoy culture and modern art. But it also attracts visitors for the beauty of its historic buildings, as well as being surrounded by nature (the Danube River also passes through Linz).

The city has a super strategic location, which facilitates the visit. After all, it is very close to Austria's borders with Germany and the Czech Republic. Furthermore, it is halfway between Vienna e Salzburg .

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• About the city
• what to do in the city
• Where to stay – Hotel recommendations
• Austria travel tips
• Currency, visa and information to plan your trip
• Plan your trip

Linz is a very ancient city and there are records of settlements in the region since 44 BC Linz's history shows that it was also part of the Roman Empire, when they built forts and buildings to ensure its connection on the Danube.

In the Middle Ages, the city grew in a projected way, and to this day there are traces of Celtic, Roman and past centuries settlements. Linz is famous for being where Johannes Kepler, the German astronomer and mathematician, discovered the so-called Kepler's Laws, the three laws that govern planetary motion.

Adolf Hitler was born in a town near Linz and spent part of his life there. During World War II, he encouraged the steel industry throughout the region.

In the 1990s, however, the city began to encourage studies and accounts of its Nazi past, being one of the first Austrian cities to closely examine this dark part of its history.

It is currently a cultural center, university and member of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, with a lively music and arts scene.

It is worth taking the time just to stroll through the narrow and cute streets of the historic center of Linz, where you can see buildings and centuries-old remains.

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Immigration does not release visitors who arrive in Austria without travel insurance. use the coupon FORTRAVELOVERS for 5% OFF, compare prices and coverage on InsurancePromo .

Linz is a big city and super well connected. There are buses that pass or arrive in the city of Vienna, Salzburg , Munich, Prague and other cities around. In fact, the bus terminal is next to the train terminal.

In addition, the city is on the route between Vienna and Salzburg, with express trains every half hour to both regions. By express train, you can reach both Vienna and Salzburg in about an hour and a half. 

Another option is Linz-Prague as there are about six trains daily. The journey, however, takes almost five hours.

Linz also has its own airport, so especially if you're coming (or going) from another city in Europe, it's worth checking flights.

One of the coolest things about Linz is that there are always specific activities and beauties at each different time of year. That is, you can plan your trip for different months without fear of going in a “bad” time.

What happens at each time of year :

The summer months are excellent for those who enjoy being outdoors, want to enjoy the Danube and still enjoy the numerous festivals and parties in the city.

One of the coolest events in the warm months, without a doubt, is the Höhenrausch. Between May and October it is possible to stroll along the roofs of the city's historic buildings, passing through artistic installations and beautiful views of Linz.

On the other hand, Autumn has less demand, better prices and that beauty of yellow/orange leaves that you can see while strolling through the parks and riverbanks.

Anyone who wants to see snow will certainly not be disappointed by the winter months. There are even options for skiing, but those who prefer quieter rides will be in heaven with the city's Christmas markets.

Finally, Spring also brings options for festivals and parties, as well as the opportunity to see orchids and cherry blossoms. In other words, there's something for everyone!

Linz is a perfect city for those who like museums, modernity and diverse tourist attractions. After all, the city also has historic buildings, leisure in nature and all kinds of tourism that you can look for.

As in many other tourist destinations, in Linz you will also find the city card. In this case, the Linz Card, which can be purchased for a day or three. With it, you will be entitled to unlimited access to public transport, as well as tickets to the main museums in the city, including the Ars Electronica Center .

In addition, the card also gives discounts on various attractions and tours. It is worth checking.

A super cool thing about the city, which matches the modernity theme, is that there is an official free hotspot. That is, you can stay connected to Wi-Fi wherever you are.

We have separated some of the main attractions in Linz, write it down!

Certainly one of the main tourist attractions in the city, it is practically a museum of the future. In it, you can learn about the future of technology, interact with robots, print things on 3D printers and do countless other activities related to technology and engineering.

Undoubtedly a great option to visit with children. But also for solo travellers, there really is no age to get the most out of this fun museum.

Ars is open every day except Monday, and opening times depend on the day. On Saturdays and Sundays it opens from 10 am to 18 pm. Admission for adults costs 9,50 euros, and 7,50 for children.

Also known as Neuer Dom, or Mariendom, the New Cathedral is in the center of the city. It is undoubtedly one of the most impressive in Austria, although it had to limit the height of its tower so as not to overshadow the Stephansdom in Vienna (!).

Even so, it is still the largest cathedral in Austria, with a beautiful Gothic exterior. And its interior is simply stunning. The cathedral has beautiful windows, in some you can see drawings telling the story of Linz Austria.

The Cathedral is open from Tuesday to Saturday, from 10 am to 13 pm and from 14 pm to 17 pm. Tickets cost 6 euros for adults and 4 euros for children, there are different types of tours. For more information see the website here.

If you have the new one, whose construction began in the 19th century, chances are we would have the old one, right? And the Old Cathedral, from the 17th century, has its towers as a highlight of the Linz skyline.

The cathedral is open every day from 7 am to 19 pm and the visit is free. For more information, see the official website here.

Lentos Kunstmuseum Linz is one of the main galleries in Linz, home to important modern artists. The collection includes, of course, works by the Austrian Klimt, but we can also find pieces by Warhol, Schiele and others.

The building itself, modern in style and with impressive night lighting, is worth a visit.

Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 18 pm. Thursdays from 10 am to 21 pm and closed on Mondays. Tickets cost 8 euros for adults and children under 7 are free. For more information see the website here.

A Poestlingberg it's a hill where you can get a really nice view of Linz.

It is worth the visit especially if you take the train tour, on the steepest accession train path in Austria. From the top, a postcard view.

Leaving a little bit of the city itself, the region is incredible. The first tip is rent a car so you can visit your favorite sights at your leisure.

Mauthausen is a town close to Linz, easily accessible by bus or train. In the city, the Nazis built a concentration camp. About 100 prisoners died or were executed at the site, which today has become a memorial.

Guided tours in English only take place in July and August, but in German throughout the year. Entrance to the memorial costs 5 euros for adults, an audio guide costs an additional 3 euros.

Steyr is a beautiful little town about an hour from Linz by train and just over 30 minutes by car.

It is worth a visit because the combination of charming streets, on the banks of the rivers Enns and Steyr and the buildings in pastel tones is charming.

This is a great option to enjoy with family, no doubt. Located in the city of Kopfing, a wooden walkway allows visitors to experience forests from high in the trees.

There are also playgrounds and treehouse-style hotels, from the most romantic to rooms that accommodate large families.

The place is open all year from 10 am to 18 pm. Tickets cost 11 euros for adults and children under 6 are free. There is also the possibility of a family ticket, see more details on the website here.

O Augustinian monastery it is a monumental monastery close to the border with Germany, certainly a building that draws attention.

All visits need to be guided and pass through impressive rooms, including the marble hall and Roman crypts.

Located a little further from Linz, about an hour and a half by car, but still in the Upper Austria region, Kalkalpen is the second largest national park in the country.

There you will find, rivers, waterfalls, mountains and caves. And, if you are VERY lucky, a lynx (feline) or a golden eagle.

Linz Austria is a relatively large city (the third largest in Austria) and very touristy. So of course there are numerous hosting options.

Here are three of our favorites, perfect for different budgets.

*Changes may occur in daily rates depending on the time of year and availability. Always check the Booking.com website for up-to-date prices.

O Hotel Am Domplatz it is perfect for couples who want comfort in an excellent location. The hotel is for adults only, has modern design and incredible views of the cathedral.

Check prices and availability and make your reservation by clicking here!

O Star Inn Linz It is great value for money and one of the best rated hotels in Linz. The hotel is beautiful, comfortable and super well located. Some rooms overlook the old cathedral. 

Rates from R$ 453 with breakfast included.

A little further from the center, The 7 Days Inn Premium has easy access to tourist attractions. This hotel is perfect for those who are on a tighter budget but still want comfort.

Rates from R$ 268 with breakfast included.

Find more options for where to stay in Linz, Austria and view today's deals on Booking.com

Linz is in Austria, relatively close to the border with Germany and also the border with the Czech Republic. The currency used in the city is the euro and it is always good to carry some cash in your wallet. This is because many establishments in Austria do not work with cards.

The language in Austria is German, with a slightly different accent than German in Germany and also with some local dialects. However, especially in more touristy places, you will easily find information also in English and other languages.

Finally, you don't need a visa to travel to Linz! But remember Austria is part of the Schengen Treaty and so the Austria travel insurance is required. Also see what others documents to enter Europe are necessary.

">Austria Sights – 27 Places to See

• Itinerary in Vienna – 10 Tips You Need to Know
• What to do in Vienna – 1 to 5 Day Itinerary
• 17 Sights in Vienna – Attractions You Need to Know
• Where to Stay in Vienna – Best Neighborhoods and Hotels
• Hotels in Vienna – 15 Options Worth Booking
• 25hours Hotel in Vienna – Our Review
• Innsbruck, Austria – Travel Guide
• Graz, Austria – Everything to Plan Your Trip
• Hallstatt, Austria – Everything You Need to Know
• Salzburg, Austria – How to Plan Your Trip
• Austria Travel Insurance – Is It Mandatory? Learn Everything Here

Are you full of things to think about and still have to plan your entire trip? Or you've seen it all, but you're feeling that familiar "Have I forgotten something?"

So calm down, we'll help you with  some items you can't forget before boarding . Come on!

Where to buy: PROMO TICKETS

Looking for a good deal and flight prices? When buying tickets to Austria, it is worth taking a look at the website  Promo Tickets . It is quite common to find cheaper and better flight options than on other sites. We always use it and it's worth it!

Where to buy: BOOKING.COM

If you haven't booked your stay, the tip is to compare hotels, hostels and inns through  Booking.com . This is the largest hotel booking platform in the world, ensuring a safe experience and great accommodation deals.

#StayHip:  Keep an eye out for 'Smart Deals', which only last for one day. Some amazing hotels offer great discounts using this badge on the platform. If you find a good deal, it's worth closing.  

Having travel insurance for Austria is a requirement to enter the country, which is part of the Schengen Treaty and requires medical and hospital coverage of at least €30 for travelers. In addition to being mandatory, insurance is a great way to ensure a smoother trip. Also enjoy our Insurance Promo discount coupon . -  SEE PRICES

Where to Buy: AMERICA CHIP

Did you know that it's getting easier – and cheaper – to have unlimited internet throughout your trip?

Just ask for an international cell phone chip through  America Chip . We always use and love it! They send a SIM card to your address in España, you insert it in your cell phone when you arrive at your destination and you have unlimited internet throughout the trip.

#StayHip:  Save on car GPS rental and use GoogleMaps and Waze with your unlimited internet ;).

Where to rent: Rent Cars

We really like  RentCars  to find the cars we use on our travels. It is the only one in Spain that compares the best rental companies in the world, but lets you pay in reais, without IOF. In addition, it is also the only one that lets you pay in 12 interest-free installments. It is worth it!

# Here's a tip:  Try to find cars with full car and third party insurance coverage. Thus, you avoid inopportune surprises when picking up the car.

Note : We highly value the credibility of our information. All the sites we recommend above are sites we already use, we have good experiences and feedback from readers!

Did you like our tips from Linz Austria? Leave your comments and questions here…

Get started now by booking your hotel on Booking.com

Save time and money searching for the best Travel Insurance with the Seguros Promo comparator! Extra 5% off with coupon: FORTRAVELOVERS

Want to find cheap tickets? Find flights with discounts of up to 35% every day at Passages Promo!

Rent your car at Rentcars! Installment up to 12X, paying in reais and without IOF!

Leave España with unlimited 4G Internet!

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Visit Linz: Top 12 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in linz : the 12 best places to visit and highlights.

You’re planning to visit Linz , in Austria , during your next trip?

Great idea!

Linz, located on the banks of the Danube , is the 3 rd largest city in the country. Less famous than Vienna or Salzburg , it’s nevertheless a great city to explore during your trip to Austria.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this guide of the 12 best things to do in Linz , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Linz in a day as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in Linz? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

1. The historic center of Linz

2. mariendom / new cathedral, 3. linz castle, 4. go up to the postlingberg, 5. the lentos museum, 6. the ars electronica center, 7. take a cruise on the danube, 8. linz botanical garden, 9. hohenrausch, 10. taste a linzertorte, 11. salzburg, how many days to spend in linz, visiting linz in 1 day, where to stay in linz, where to eat in linz, how to get to linz, linz tourist map, you’re traveling in austria these articles will help you, visiting linz: 12 must-see attractions.

The discovery of Linz begins with a walk through the historic center to appreciate the city’s iconic monuments .

The center is particularly appealing: cute houses with colorful and characteristic facades , renaissance and baroque-era buildings , many cafes and trendy restaurants and a bunch of hip designer stores.

The must-sees in the old town of Linz:

• The Hauptplatz: Linz’s main square where you’ll find the old city hall and the Trinity Column . With a surface area of 13,200 m², it is the largest enclosed plaza in Europe . It is on this square that the Linz Christmas market is held every winter.
• The Landhaus, official home of the region’s president. This beautiful renaissance-style building houses the “Planet Fountain” in one of its courtyards. A tribute to a celebrity and genius that lived in Linz, the astronomer Johannes Kepler . He discovered that the planets revolve around the sun in an elliptical path .
• The Kremsmünstererhaus where Emperor Frederick III reportedly died in 1493.
• Mozart’s house where the famous composer created “The Linz Symphony” in only 3 days, as a tribute to the city.
• St. Martin’s Church whose construction goes back to before 788, making it the oldest church in all of Austria . Archaeological excavations have revealed inscriptions and a Roman oven.

While you’re at Hauptplatz, take the opportunity to pass by the Linz Tourist Office to pick up a city map.

To continue your Linz tour, you should pay a visit to the Mariendom , also called “New Cathedral” right next to the Hauptplatz. With a capacity of over 20,000 people, it is the largest church you can visit in Austria .

Inside, you get to admire magnificent stained glass windows like the Linzer Fenster or the Kaiserfenster . The interior gallery, at a height of 15 meters, also offers a unique view of the entire church.

Also make sure to climb to the bell tower to enjoy the amazing panorama over the entire city of Linz .

It’s one of the must-see places of interest in Linz!

To visit the main places of interest in Linz, you can also go for a private guided tour.

You will find all the information by clicking here !

Linz Castle stands on high ground and overlooks Linz’s historic center and the Danube . It’s one of the must-see monuments during your stay in Linz .

It most notably served as the residence of Emperor Frederick III , until his death in 1493. The castle has undergone several modifications over the centuries and has also served as alternatively a hospital, prison and military barracks.

The castle has a peculiar facade mixing ancient and contemporary architectural styles . One of its wings having been destroyed by fire in 1800, it was rebuilt in contemporary fashion with a glass and steel structure , to celebrate the city’s designation as European Capital of Culture.

You can freely explore the castle’s courtyard and exteriors , allowing you to admire all these captivating contrasts.

The castle houses the Upper Austrian State Museum featuring permanent exhibits about the Upper Austria Lander and the city of Linz . An excellent opportunity to learn more about the rich local history.

Depending on the time of year, you’ll also find temporary exhibitions on the theme of art or natural sciences. The museum is really interesting and a must-see to discover this part of Austria.

Linz Castle Museum is open every day.

Another great activity in Linz is to go up to Postlingberg hill .

To do this, you’ll need to take the funicular (the Postlingbergbahn) departing from Hauptplatz. Pretty famous cable-car since it’s one of the steepest in Europe . In 20 minutes, you’ll be 255 meters higher than where you started from!

The funicular operates every day, with one approximately every 30 minutes, and the round trip costs around €6.

Once at the top of the hill, at 600 meters above sea level, you’ll enjoy a spectacular panorama of all of Linz and its surroundings. This is clearly the place to go in Linz if you’re looking for the most beautiful view of the city .

If the weather is clear, you can even see the Alps in the distance.

At Postlingberg, you will also find another symbol of Linz, the Basilica of the Seven Sorrows of Mary , whose two bell towers are visible from the heart of the city.

If you’ve decided to visit Linz with your family , your children will also be delighted to go up to Postlingberg for two reasons:

• They can take the little train in the cave (Grottenbahn) , which takes them on a journey through a world of elves and fairy tales. A miniature version of Linz has even been recreated there. An animation and light show illustrates and recreates several scenes from famous fairy tales. Open from March to November. Price: €5.50 for adults and €3.30 for children.
• Halfway up Postlingberg, you can stop to visit Linz Zoo . More than 600 animals, including llamas, crocodiles, and numerous birds, are present for the delight of the whole family. Open all year. Price: €5.50 for adults and €3.30 for children. Free for children under 5 years old.

Continue your tour of Linz with a bit of cultural sightseeing. Make sure to pay a visit to the Lentos Museum , conveniently situated right on the banks of the Danube.

It’s the city’s modern art museum and holds significant importance as one of Austria’s most prominent cultural institutions.

Spanning over 8,000m², the museum houses an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and photographs . Famous Austrian artists such as Klimt and Schiele , as well as Kokoschka , have their works exhibited there.

Don’t hesitate to grab a drink on the museum’s “café terrace” . You’ll enjoy a magnificent view of the Danube and Postlingberg.

The museum is open every day except Monday. Admission: €8. Free for children under 7 years old.

And if you’re wondering what to do in Linz in the evening , go take a look at the Lentos Museum at night as its facade is illuminated with multiple colors.

Opposite the Lentos Museum, on the other side of the Danube, is another must-visit museum in Linz: the ARS Electronica Center .

The ARS presents itself as a future-oriented museum dedicated to digital arts and culture . It’s very interactive and engaging.

You’ll find permanent exhibitions on art, technology, and the society of tomorrow . It’s particularly focused on biotechnology and robotics.

It also has a massive projection room for immersing yourself in fantastic imaginary places. You’ll also find several workshops for hands-on experiences.

The museum is open every day except Monday. Admission: €9.5.

Just like the Lentos, you can take a stroll there at night , as it is also adorned with a self-illuminated LED facade.

You’re going to Linz?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Lots of people will be visiting Linz on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Linz.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Linz, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Linz!

As you must have noticed, I’ve mentioned the Danube a lot, so why not take advantage of your trip to Linz to go on a cruise ?

It’s one of the main tourist activities to do in Linz, thanks to the city’s ideal location.

You’ll get to choose between several cruise companies and various cruise durations .

Some offer just a tour of Linz while others take you to explore the landscapes of the Danube Valley or the Wachau for half a day or a full day, and some even all the way to Vienna!

If you choose the Linz tour, you’ll be able to admire the Mural Harbor an open-air art gallery. In Linz’s harbor, more than a hundred graffiti works have been created on industrial buildings.

You can book this Linz cruise by clicking directly on the following link !

For a more authentic experience you’ll have to go for a cruise on the paddle steamer Schönbrunn, the oldest steamboat in Europe !

For flora enthusiasts, let’s continue this Linz tourist guide with a little visit to the Linz Botanical Garden .

On about 4 hectares (10 acres), you will find around 10,000 plants and, most notably, the largest cactus collection in Europe . Make sure you don’t miss the tropical greenhouse , the Japanese garden , the rose garden, and the area dedicated to the typical Alpine vegetation .

The place is truly lovely for a bucolic stroll.

Open all year round and every day. Admission: €3.

To reach the botanical garden from downtown Linz, take bus No. 27 to the “Botanischer Garten” stop. You could also walk for about half an hour to get there.

If you’ve decided to visit Linz between May and October, there’s one thing you must absolutely try: the Hohenrausch exhibition .

The event takes place annually, following the same concept but with unique themes each year.

The exhibition consists of walking along various walkways set up between the monuments and on the rooftops of the city . As you progress, you climb higher and higher in the city, and the views are stunning.

Throughout the tour, you will encounter a myriad of artworks and installations crafted by renowned artists, each one carefully designed to complement the event’s unique theme. In 2016, the exhibition was dedicated to angels. In 2018, water.

A truly original way to discover Linz.

Visiting Linz without indulging in a slice of Linzertorte is like visiting Canada and not trying poutine, or visiting Sicily and not savoring a cannoli – it’s just not proper!

You must include a tasting stop during your Linz tour just for this culinary specialty. Consider yourselves warned.

The Linzertorte is a blueberry jam tart topped with lattice-patterned pastry .

The people of Linz are particularly proud of it, so much so that the tourist office has adopted the Linzertorte as its official logo . It is said to be the oldest known tart in the world, with a recipe even found in a book dating back 350 years!

Of course, as with quiche Lorraine or carbonara, everyone has it’s opinion on what is the original recipe. They all agree on one point though: the Linzertorte must be baked in a metal tart pan , filled with blueberry jam, and have a lattice pattern on top!

Now that you know all this, all that’s left is to find the best place in Linz to taste it. There are differing opinions here as well, so I’ll recommend two places :

• At Jindrak , a highly reputed tea room that gets quite busy during teatime
• At K.U.K Hofbackerei Cafe , the oldest pastry shop and bakery in Linz

The only way to settle the debate is, of course, to taste both!

The best things to do around Linz

Now you know what to do in Linz! It’s time to continue your trip in Austria by exploring the surroundings.

I have prepared my selection of the best things to do in the surroundings of Linz for you.

Salzburg is one of the main cities to visit around Linz . It is only a 1 hour and 20-minute drive away by car.

If you plan on visiting Salzburg , here’s a list of my recommendations for must-see places:

• Hohensalzburg Fortress
• Nonnberg Abbey
• Salzburg St. Rupert cathedral
• The DomQuartier
• Mozart’s birthplace

You’ll find my article dedicated to the city by clicking here: Best things to do and see in Salzburg

Another must-visit city near Linz is Vienna . It’s located about 2 hours away by car .

Here are the best things to do during your stay in Vienna :

• Schönbrunn Palace
• Hofburg Imperial Palace
• Belvedere Palace
• The Staatsoper, Vienna State Opera
• Spanish Riding School of Vienna
• The Albertina museum.

If you are planning on visiting Vienna during your Austria tour , you’ll find my article dedicated to the city by clicking here: Best things to do and see in Vienna

To visit Linz, 1 day is enough .

The historic center can be easily explored on foot and the only slightly remote visit from the center is accessible by bus in 15 minutes.

Of course, if you’d rather take your time or go on a Danube cruise for a day then you should spend 2 days in Linz .

If you want to visit museums, you can get the Linz Card for €16 for one day. You’ll get free access to the Lentos, ARS, and castle museum which are part of our top 12 things to do in Linz.

You’ll also get discounts for the Grottenbahn, the zoo, the Botanical Garden and Danube cruises. You can purchase it directly at the Linz Tourist Office located on Hauptplatz .

Here’s my itinerary for a day in Linz:

• Walk through the historic center of Linz to admire the city’s architecture
• Discover Linz Castle
• Choice of visit: Lentos Museum for art lovers or ARS Electronica if you’re more into new technology
• Lunch break
• Funicular ride to Postlingberg
• Taste the Linzertorte
• Pass by Mariendom
• End the day at the Botanical Garden or on a Danube cruise .

To help you prepare your stay, I have selected for you the best accommodations in Linz according to your budget .

• Hotel Garni Wilder Mann : Located between the train station and the historic center. Spacious, bright double room from €70 per night, breakfast for €8. Strong points: good breakfast, comfortable rooms.
• Star Inn Hotel Linz Promenadengalerien, by Comfort : Located in the center of Linz, 200 meters from Mariendom. Modern and designer double room from €110 per night, breakfast for €14. Strong points: brand new hotel with modern facilities, the abundant breakfast, the location. It’s my favorite for its excellent value for money .
• Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger – Hauptplatz : Located on the main square of the historic center. Traditionally decorated double room from €150, breakfast for €15. Strong points: Pros: location right in the old town, comfortable beds, excellent breakfast.
• Hotel AM Domplatz : Located right next to the New Cathedral. Very spacious and ultra-modern double room with an open bathroom area from €160 per night, breakfast for €19. Strong points: spectacular view of the cathedral from the rooms, design and comfort of the rooms, quiet. The best hotel for a luxury stay in Linz !

• Fischerhaeusl: Located on Flusgasse street. The restaurant offers dishes made from fresh ingredients and a slightly modernized version of Austrian cuisine. Everything is delicious and the value for money is excellent.
• Rauner: Located on Kraussstrasse street. Excellent cuisine with some quite original dishes. Pleasant and cozy atmosphere. You can even watch the chefs prepare the dishes through the glass separating the kitchen from the dining area.
• Wirtshaus Keintzel: Located on Rathausgasse street. Traditional Austrian dishes, generous portions, everything at a low price! Friendly service and a pleasant atmosphere in a beautiful courtyard.

From Vienna:

• By train: 1h15

You should check the train schedules and fares before leaving and book your tickets here :

From Graz :

• By car: 2h35
• By train: 4h30
• By bus: 5h30

From Salzburg:

• By car: 1h20
• By train: 1h10

To help you visualize the city a bit better, I’ve created a tourist map of Linz listing the places to visit that I talk about in this top 12 things to do. You can display the map legend by clicking on the button with a small arrow in the top left corner.

Discover all my articles about Austria : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Austria are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to Do in Austria : all best places to visit and activities
• Itinerary: One week in Austria – The perfect itinerary for your 7-8 days trip to Austria
• Graz: TOP 10 best places to visit
• Hallstatt: TOP 6 things to do during your stay
• Innsbruck: The 15 best things to do and see
• Linz: TOP 12 places to visit and must-see attractions
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The city of Linz is home to a vibrant music and arts scene, seamlessly blending traditional and contemporary arts.

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Top Highlights in Linz

• Explore Linz Lifestyle

Linz is a little bit different. This “City of Smart Tourism” has historic beauty aplenty: its expansive  main square  – located right by the Danube, and one of the largest in Central Europe – and its quaint  Old Town  have a relaxed and authentic feel.

But Linz is also defined by a constant desire for change and innovation . Once primarily an industrial centre, Linz has become a pioneer when it comes to culture, art, and technology . Home to a harbour that doubles as one of Europe’s  biggest graffiti galleries  and the cutting-edge art-slash-technology museum  Ars Electronica Center , Linz is a destination for travellers looking for the unfamiliar.

Linz, Main Sqaure ÖW / Sebastian Scheichl Creator / ÖW / Sebastian Scheichl Creator media_content.tooltip.skipped

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Ars Electonica Center

"musiktheater" opera house, the old town of linz, harbour cruise, pöstlingberg mountain, "linzer torte" cake, explore linz' lifestyle, architecture tip: mariendom (new cathedral), museum tip: castle museum linz, event tip: linz klangwolken (clouds of sound), restaurant tip: herbersteins brasserie "das schloss" (the palace).

Available for 1, 2, or 3 days - gives you free entry to many museums, free public transport, and event discounts.

15 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Linz

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Dec 26, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Linz, the capital of Upper Austria and the country's third largest city after Vienna and Graz, lies in an attractive location that straddles both banks of the River Danube. Here, this mighty river widens after emerging from its narrow passage through the outliers of the Bohemian Forest into the Linz basin.

Famous for its many fine churches, museums, and cultural activities, the city was home to some of Austria's most famous creative types, including novelist Adalbert Stifter, composers Wolfgang Mozart and Anton Bruckner, and the famous scientist Johannes Kepler. This rich history is reflected by the plethora of art galleries in Linz and countless cultural events held here each year.

One of the most picturesque of Austrian cities - and often missed out on travel itineraries (don't make the same mistake) - Linz's location on the Danube makes it an ideal spot for a river excursion or exploration of the surrounding countryside and attractions. Other fun things to do in Linz include exploring the city's historic shopping districts, including Landstrasse with its unique boutique shops and galleries, or simply pulling up a chair on a cozy café patio and watching the world go by.

For great ideas of fun adventures in this lovely corner of Austria, read through our list of the best things to do in Linz.

See also: Where to Stay in Linz

1. The Castle of Linz (Schlossmuseum Linz)

2. explore ars electronica center, 3. get your art fix at the ok center, 4. lentos art museum, 5. see st. martin's church, 6. tour the new cathedral, 7. take a tour of st. florian augustinian abbey, 8. linz botanical gardens, 9. take a drive to wilhering abbey, 10. voestalpine steel world, 11. enjoy a stroll through the hauptplatz and landstrasse, 12. take a pilgrimage to pöstlingberg, 13. visit the old cathedral, 14. the mauthausen memorial, 15. take a day trip to the old town of wels, where to stay in linz for sightseeing, map of attractions & things to do in linz.

Perched overlooking the Danube, the imposing Castle of Linz (Linz Schloss) has dominated the city for centuries. Records indicate the site has in fact been home to a fortress since the early 9th century, the remains of which can still be seen around the old walls and the Friedrich Gate. The present structure dates predominantly from the 16th century and was rebuilt after a fire in 1800.

Now home to the excellent Castle Museum (Schlossmuseum), this historic fortress houses important art and historical collections along with displays featuring artifacts from the prehistoric, Roman, and medieval periods, including paintings, sculptures, arms, and armor. The more modern South Wing was opened in 2009 and contains permanent exhibits regarding nature and technology, as well as temporary exhibits.

If time permits, be sure to add Nordico , the city museum (Stadtmuseum), to your itinerary. Highlights of a visit include detailed exhibits relating to the history of Linz portrayed through artworks, photos, as well as archaeology artifacts.

Address: Schlossberg 1, 4020 Linz, Austria

Official site: www.ooelkg.at/en/location/schlossmuseum-linz.html

The excellent Ars Electronica Center - also referred to as the Museum of the Future - was founded in 1996 and moved to its present ultra-modern location on the Danube in 2009. Designed to showcase the city's reputation as a dynamic center of technology, media, industry, and art, the center features exhibits focusing on the technology shaping our modern world, including displays related to climate change and pollution, space exploration, biotechnology, and robotics. Interesting workshops and guided tours of the museum are available.

The center is also the site of the annual Ars Electronica Festival , which recognizes world leaders in computer music, animation, interactive art, and web design. Temporary and special exhibitions are also held regularly at the center. Be sure to take a walk along the Danube after sundown to see the center and other area museums lit up as part of a stunning riverside lightshow.

Address: Ars-Electronica-Straße 1, 4040 Linz, Austria

Official site: https://ars.electronica.art/center/en/

Another top tourist attraction worth visiting is the city's Upper Austrian Culture Quarter ( OÖ Kulturquartier ) district. More often than not simply referred to as the OK, it's here you'll find the OK Center for Contemporary Art Austria . This world-class contemporary art gallery hosts regular exhibits from Austria and abroad. There's also an arthouse cinema and a variety of dining options available on-site.

Many of the state of Upper Austria's most important modern and contemporary artworks can be enjoyed at Landesgalerie Linz . With representative works from local and national artists, as well as international works and displays of photography in the Francisco Carolinum , it's easy to spend a few hours here learning more about the region's history through its collections of 20th-century art. In addition to its permanent collections, the museum features regular exhibits of artworks from galleries around the globe.

Address: OK-Platz 1, 4020 Linz, Austria

Official site: www.ok-centrum.at/en/

Another of Linz's state-of-the-art museums located on the banks of the Danube, the Lentos Art Museum (Lentos Kunstmuseum) opened its doors in 2003 and has since become one of the most important art galleries in Austria. Highlights of this spectacular museum - itself a work of art when lit up at night - are its rich collection of more than 1,500 pieces of artwork.

Highlights of this impressive collection include examples from the 19th century, as well as classical modernist masterpieces by the likes of Austrians Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele. Other highlights include a collection of important works from the German and Austrian Expressionist movement of the 1920s and 1930s, as well as international works from the postwar period.

The museum also has a notable collection of sculptures, sketches, and photographs, as well as a shop and a reference library. There's also a great restaurant with a large patio overlooking the Danube that's well worth spending time at.

An art adventure worth participating in can be enjoyed at Kulturverein Mural Harbor , or Mural Harbor Gallery. The focus of these fascinating art tours of the city's port area are the works of graffiti on display, a riot of color created by locals and artists from across the country that demonstrate the power and professionalism of this provocative art form.

Address: Doktor-Ernst-Koref-Promenade 1, 4020 Linz, Austria

Official site: www.lentos.at/html/en/

Not all of the best places to visit in Linz are set in ultra-modern buildings or focus on art and entertainment. Just below Linz Castle, in Römerstrasse, stands quaint little St. Martin's Church (Martinskirche), the oldest church in Austria to be preserved in its original form. Built on the remains of Roman walls that can still be seen in the building's exterior, this remarkable 8th-century church is characteristic of the earliest Carolingian architecture.

Highlights of a visit to this important Catholic church include seeing an interior rich with 15th-century frescoes, along with the outlines of old doorways and windows in the sidewalls dating from the Gothic period. A Roman kiln oven is visible, and many stones inside the church bear Roman inscriptions, while recent excavations have revealed the royal hall of the former imperial palace. Afterwards, be sure to linger awhile on the grounds - it's one of the most picturesque scenes in an incredibly picturesque city.

Address: Römerstraße/Ecke Martingasse, 4020 Linz

The splendid New Cathedral (Neuer Dom) - also known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, or Mariendom - is a three-aisled, Neo-Gothic pillared basilica of yellow sandstone with an ambulatory surrounded by a ring of chapels. Constructed between 1862 and 1924 to the plans of Cologne architect Vinzenz Statz, this massive Roman Catholic church covers a larger area than Vienna's St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Highlights of a visit include a 135-meter-high tower and the great organ built in 1968. Be sure to also see the crypt, which holds the grave of Franz Josef Rudigier, Linz's best-known Bishop. Also worth noting in the crypt is its large nativity scene.

The cathedral also includes a spectacular stained-glass window. Known as the Linz-Window, it depicts the history of the town. Afterwards, be sure to visit the Bishop's Palace (Bischöfliches Palais). Dating from 1726 and originally part of the Kremsmünster monastery, it's notable for its unique iron gateway and staircase built in 1227. Visitors are welcome to attend mass here, too.

Address: Herrenstraße 26, 4020 Linz, Austria

Just 20 minutes south of Linz, the St. Florian Augustinian Abbey (Stift Sankt Florian) - officillay known as The Monastery of the Canons Regular of St. Augustine's Order at St. Florian - dates from AD 800 and was built over the grave of its namesake saint, a Roman official martyred in AD 304 for becoming Christian. The present Baroque structure was built between 1686 and 1751 and remains an important theological seminary famous for its boys' choir. If you can, try to plan your visit to coincide with one of their regular concerts.

Tour highlights include the impressive main doorway with its massive statues of Atlas and Virtue; the imposing Abbey Church with its twin Baroque towers, stucco decoration, and Bruckner organ; and the crypt, where organist Anton Bruckner lies buried. Also of note are the Imperial Apartments (Kaiserzimmer), once used by visiting Emperors and Popes, and St. Sebastian's Altar with its 14 early-16th-century paintings by Albrecht Altdorfer, a master of the Danube school.

You'll also have the chance to see the magnificent library with its ceiling paintings and Rococo gallery, and the St. Florian art collection. A restaurant is located on-site, and for a truly memorable experience, affordable B&B options are available in the guesthouse.

Address: Stiftstraße 1, 4490 St. Florian, Austria

Official site: www.stift-st-florian.at/en/home.html

Near the outskirts of the city, on the eastern slopes of the Freinberg, a 30-minute walk from the city center, is where you'll find the splendid Linz Botanical Gardens. Considered among Europe's most beautiful gardens, it's home to more than 10,000 species of plants spread over numerous attractive flowerbeds and five greenhouses. The garden features many exotic specimens, including a large collection of cacti, a superb Rosarium, numerous alpine flowers in the Alpinum, and a well-stocked Tropic House. The Botanical Gardens also hosts numerous events throughout the year, including flower shows and concerts.

Another fun outdoor attraction for kids is the family-friendly Zoo Linz . This fun zoo is home to more than 600 animals from numerous species. Highlights include a number of exotic species including apes, lizards, snakes, and birds housed in the tropical hothouse. There are also plenty of domesticated animals housed here, too, which provide fun interactive experiences for children.

Address: Roseggerstraße 20-22, 4020 Linz, Austria

About eight kilometers west of Linz on the southern bank of the Danube stands the little town of Wilhering. This quaint little community is famous for its sprawling 12th-century Cistercian abbey. Founded in 1146 and rebuilt in the 18th century after a devastating fire, Wilhering Abbey (Stift Wilhering) is well worth making the short trip from Linz to explore, especially if you can do it by boat.

A highlight is the abbey's modern art gallery. Located in a former guesthouse thought to be the oldest surviving part of the complex, it houses a number of paintings by Fritz Fröhlich. The church is also worth visiting and boasts one of the finest Rococo interiors in Austria, along with a number of attractive frescoes by B Altomonte, including the Glorification of the Mother of God . Also of note are its fine choir stalls and wall graves.

Address: Linzerstraße 4, 4073 Wilhering, Austria

Created in recognition of Linz's decades-long role as a center of the Austrian steel industry, the Voestalpine Steel World (Voestalpine Stahlwelt) is well worth a visit. Built by Voestalpine AG, the country's largest steel manufacturer, this fascinating attraction is located in the heart of the country's largest industrial complex and offers a glimpse of the workings of the steel industry.

Visitors get the chance to enter a full-size replica of a blast furnace, along with numerous hands-on displays showing the manufacturing process from start to finish. Also of interest are the 80 large chrome-plated spheres - some as big as two-and-a-half meters in diameter - illuminated to show the many uses of steel.

This fun attraction is best enjoyed via an English language tour (1.5- and three-hour options are available). Afterwards, visit the on-site cafe overlooking this still operational plant.

Another science-related attraction worth a visit - and one of the top things to do at night in Linz - is the Klagenfurt Observatory (Sternwarte Klagenfurt). The observatory is also popular for its regular weekly astronomy viewings held on Thursdays and Saturdays.

Address: Voestalpine-Straße 4, 4020 Linz, Austria

Official site: www.voestalpine.com/stahlwelt/en

The 1,200-meter-long Landstrasse stretches from the Promenade towards the main railroad station and is the best place to begin exploring Linz's historic city center. On the east side stand the Ursuline Church (Ursulinenkirche), dating from 1772, and the Carmelite Church (Karmelitenkirche) built between 1674 to 1726. Another old church of note is the Seminary Church (Seminarkirche), a small round structure with a fine interior built in 1717 to 25 for the Teutonic Order.

The other part of the old city to explore is the Hauptplatz, the original Market Square. This large public space, surrounded by handsome Baroque buildings, forms the center of the old town. On its eastern side stands the 17th-century Rathaus and opposite it, in the middle of the square, is the Trinity Column (Dreifaltigkeitssäule), a 20-meter-high marble column erected in 1723 in thanks for the town's preservation from plague and Turkish attack. Across from the Rathaus is the Feichtinger Haus, with a beautifully arcaded courtyard.

High above Linz's Urfahr district is the prominent hill known as the Pöstlingberg. The best way to get here from the city center is via a narrow gauge electric railroad, the Pöstlingbergbahn , established in 1898 and still carrying thousands of riders each year along its five-kilometer route. Once there, be sure to visit the exquisite Pilgrimage church . Built in 1748, its most notable features include its beautiful 18th-century Pietà of carved wood, and its magnificent views.

A fun diversion in Pöstlingberg is the delightful Grottobahn , a more than 100-year-old attraction that consists of a narrow-gauge train resembling a dragon - affectionately known as the "Dragon Express" - and which pulls visitors through a series of caverns inhabited by characters from famous fairy tales.

Location: Pöstlingberg, Linz, Austria

Often referred to as Linz's Old Cathedral (Alter Dom), the twin-towered Jesuit church of St. Ignatius (Ignatiuskirche) is famous for its rich Italian decorations. Also of note is its organ, famously played by Austrian composer Anton Bruckner and now known as the Bruckner Organ, as well as its high altar, dating from 1683, and pulpit from 1678. Note also the richly carved choir stalls from 1633 depicting grotesque human and animal figures, as well as strange dwarfs.

The nearby Landhaus , seat of the provincial government of Upper Austria, is also of historical significance. Built in 1571 on the site of an earlier Minorite convent, the building's magnificent doorway bears the coats of arms of the original Austrian provinces, while its centerpiece is the fine arcaded courtyard in which concerts are still staged. The focal point of the courtyard is an octagonal Planet Fountain from 1582. From 1612 to 1626, the astronomer and scientist Johannes Kepler taught here in the college that once occupied the building.

Address: Domgasse 3, 4020 Linz, Austria

The Mauthausen Memorial is an important site of remembrance that offers a look at one of the darkest periods in Austria's history. It was here that, from 1938 to 1945, close to 200,000 individuals from some 40 countries were held prisoner by the Nazi regime, with an estimated 90,000 dying here due to its brutal conditions.

The journey begins in the modern visitor center, once the infirmary, where exhibits provide a chilling overview of life in the concentration camp and its network of subcamps across Austria. Displays also deal with the rise of the Nazi party and the war, as well as telling the stories of particular inmates and survivors and their experiences trying to survive the camp's brutal conditions, as well as their experiences after liberation.

Numerous artifacts from the camp are also on display, as is a list of the names of over 81,000 people who perished here, many of them dying on the infamous quarry stairway, or "Stairway of Death," which can be viewed and climbed as part of your visit. A shop and a café are located on-site, as is a resource library for those wanting to conduct research.

A variety of English language guided tours are available, including options with educational workshops that delve deeper into the history and workings of the camp, as well as its victims and survivors. English language audio-guides are also on hand for those wishing to make their own way around the memorial. Expect to spend a minimum of two or three hours here.

Address: Erinnerungsstraße 1, 4310 Mauthausen, Austria

Official site: www.mauthausen-memorial.org/en

About 35 kilometers southwest of Linz is the old town of Wels. Thanks to its idyllic location on the left bank of the River Traun, it's a delight to explore on foot. Fun things to do here include strolling around the historic Stadtplatz , a large open square that's partly pedestrianized and lined with handsome old merchants' houses and the town's symbol, the Ledererturm, a large medieval tower built in 1376 (along with the 16th-century Wasserturm, it forms part of the old medieval walls).

On the southern side of the square stand two fine Baroque buildings, the stately Kremsmünsterer Hof , once part of Kremsmünster Abbey, and the Town Hall (Rathaus) dating from 1748, in front of which stands the Stadtbrunnen , a reconstruction of the original fountain from 1593.

A little farther south and well worth exploring is the small town of Windischgarsten , a popular winter sports and health resort in the valley basin of the River Teichlbach. Another pleasant day trip is to the Mühlviertel to the northwest of Linz, popular for its excellent walking trails through a mix of woodland and fields, past old castles and ruins, as well as many quiet little market towns and villages.

We recommend these great hotels in Linz near the old town and top city sights:

• Hotel am Domplatz : This adults-only, four-star luxury hotel features a fantastic location and ultra-stylish design, along with cathedral views, a sauna, and a steam bath.
• Park Inn by Radisson Linz : Popular for its mid-range pricing, this modern hotel features courteous staff and colorful rooms.
• Austria Trend Hotel Schillerpark : Along with affordable rates, this hotel is within walking distance of Linz old town and boasts light-filled rooms and multiple restaurants.
• Ibis Linz City : Looking for budget-friendly rates? Ibis Linz is located near main train station, with contemporary decor and handy underground parking.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Easy Train Trips : A must visit when traveling to Linz, the Austrian capital of Vienna - widely regarded as one of the top city destinations in Europe - is home to numerous important historic buildings, including the famous Hofburg and Schönbrunn palaces. The beautiful city of Salzburg is also an easy train ride away, and is another must-see for its superlative architecture and magnificent mountain vistas. For those seeking a less-urban getaway, head for Hallstatt , famous for its beautiful setting on the Hallstätter See.

Winter Fun : Austria is known for its magnificent ski resorts , especially the lovely city of Innsbruck , the scene of two Winter Olympics. Kitzbuhel is another great ski destination and draws winter sports enthusiasts from across Europe.

Austria Vacation Ideas : One of the top vacation destinations in Austria, Graz is a delight to explore, and its old town is home to numerous well-preserved historic buildings, including the magnificent Clock Tower. Other great options include Bregenz , a picturesque town located on the shores of beautiful Lake Constance, and Melk , famous for its magnificent Benedictine monastery perched high above the Danube.

More on Austria

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'In Linz beginnt’s' (it begins in Linz) goes the Austrian saying, and it’s spot on. This is a city on the move, with its finger on the pulse of the country's technology industry. Daring public art installations, a burgeoning cultural scene, a cyber centre and a cutting-edge gallery that looks freshly minted for a sci-fi movie all signal tomorrow’s Austria.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Ars Electronica Center

The technology, science and digital media of the future are in the spotlight at Linz' biggest crowd-puller. In the labs you can interact with robots,…

Overlooking the Danube, the rectangular glass-and-steel Lentos is strikingly illuminated by night. The gallery guards one of Austria's finest modern-art…

Also known as the Neuer Dom, this neo-Gothic giant of a cathedral lifts your gaze to its riot of pinnacles, flying buttresses and filigree-traceried…

Mural Harbour

Street art comes into its own on the graffiti-blasted industrial facades in Linz' harbourside Hafenviertel. You'll find eye-catching, larger-than-life…

Pöstlingberg

Linz spreads out beneath you atop Pöstlingberg (537m), a precipitous 20- to 30-minute ride aboard the narrow-gauge Pöstlingbergbahn from the Hauptplatz…

Landesgalerie

Housed in a sumptuous late-19th-century building, the Landesgalerie focuses on 20th- and 21st-century paintings, photography and installations. The…

Schlossmuseum

Romans, Habsburg emperors, fire – Linz' castle has seen the lot. Enjoy the panoramic city views before delving into its museum's trove of treasures,…

Street performers entertain the crowds, trams rumble past and locals relax in pavement cafes on the city's centrepiece square, framed by ornate baroque…

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Why you need to visit Linz and the best things to do in Linz, Austria

September 18, 2018 by Karen Turner 6 Comments

I spent three weeks this summer in Upper Austria and I took regular trips to Linz.  Despite its beauty, Linz is not as well known as other Austrian cities.  This post will be covering the best things to do in Linz, Austria with the hope that it will inspire you take a day to explore this stunning Austrian city.

• 1.1 Where to stay in Linz
• 2.1 Stop for a delicious Austrian breakfast
• 2.2 Stop for an coffee at a Viennese style coffeehouse
• 2.3.1 Step into Landhaus Brücke
• 2.3.2 Go shopping along Landstraße
• 2.4 Explore the rooftops
• 2.5 Marvel at progress at the Ars Electronica Center
• 2.6 Eat Linzer Tart in Linz
• 2.7 Admire Linz from below from Pöstlingberg and Linz Castle
• 2.8 Take the bizarre Dragon Express through Linz’s Grottenbahn 
• 2.9 ….Have fantastic Mexican food?!
• 2.10 Walk along the Danube
• 2.11 Stop for a drink (craft beer or Hugos) in Linz
• 2.12 Stop at the Johannes Kepler house
• 2.13 Explore the street art at Mural Harbor
• 2.14 Getting to Linz
• 2.15 Have you been to Linz, Austria?

Why visit Linz

Although Salzburg and Vienna often get all the attention, Linz has somehow flown under the radar and flourished.  This stunning Austrian city with beautiful pastel colored buildings and grand churches is far from what you might find in Austria as it has a modern edge underneath all this beauty.  Throughout Linz, you’ll find many cool local boutiques run by younger entrepreneurs as well as new cafes catered to the next generation.

Most importantly, Linz has not suffered from the overtourism that you find in some of the major cities in Austria.  You do get a fair share of tourists who cruise, but you can generally step onto a sidestreet only to find quiet and beauty in the historic city center.  

If you are traveling between Salzburg and Vienna, Linz is approximately the halfway point.  This makes Linz a great base for exploring Upper Austria as well as taking day trips down to the stunning Salzkammergut region (which includes Hallstatt ).   While staying in Upper Austria for about a month, I was shocked by the variety of options for day trips in terms of history, nature, and beautiful small towns

Where to stay in Linz

The Linz historic city center is absolutely beautiful and if you only have a short time in Linz, I recommend staying in the city center to be able to easily walk to the main attractions in the city as well as restaurants.  Those seeking comfort and value might like the family-run boutique hotel  Hotel zum Schwarzen Bären  while those looking for a room with a view might love the view of the historic Mariendom Cathedral at Hotel Am Domplatz .

If you’re looking for a different experience, cross the river to stay in Urfahr, the other bank of Linz.  Linz is at the cutting edge of design and you can experience it through one of its many design-oriented hotels .  For those on a tighter budget, there’s just one hostel in Linz.

Check hotel prices in Linz

Things to do in Linz

If you only have a day in Linz, I’d recommend focusing on the old town, eating some Linzertart, stop for a coffee at one of the many coffeehouses, getting a Hugo at one of the many cafes, and visiting the Pöstlingberg.  If you’re on foot, this should be sufficient for one day. 

Stop for a delicious Austrian breakfast

For some reason, Austrian breakfast isn’t something that people talk about. Many people enjoy some bread with butter or jam, however you can also find a more elaborate breakfast that includes ham, cheese, and breads.

A friend of mine recommended Cafe Meier , which is a traditional Austrian restaurant in the city center that serves a nice breakfast as well as good coffee.  (Be warned: No cell phones and no cards.)  We thoroughly enjoyed our omelettes.

For something a bit more modern, head to Exx for a modern vegan-friendly take on Austrian breakfast.  Here, you can find vegan worst as well as other traditional Austrian food that you can order by the dish.

Stop for an coffee at a Viennese style coffeehouse

Coffee in Austria is an art that is recognized by UNESCO.  You’ll find a number of traditional Viennese style coffee houses.  My favorite that I visited was Café Traxlmayr , which has lactose-free milk available and accepts cards.  They have a lovely view of the pretty pastel buildings in Linz’s center.

If you want to order coffee in Austria like a local, ask for the  Melange , a frothy Austrian take on the cappuccino that is pure deliciousness.  For those of you who like your coffee black (like your soul), order the  Kleiner Brauner for an espresso. 

Explore Linz Old Town

At least for me, this is why I kept coming back to Linz: for the enjoyment of walking around this clean and beautiful city.  It’s hard not to admire the stunning facades of the buildings.

It’s very hard to miss the  Hauptplatz , the main square of Linz.  Here, you’ll find colorful houses, an beautiful decorative column made of marble, and quite a few cafes.  From here, it’s easy to wander admiring the architecture, step into charming shops, and watch the world go by at. 

Look for the decorated pink building with an octagonal tower, which is the old city hall ( Altes Rathaus)  where you’ll find the tourism office (in case you need a map.) Just a short walk away from the Hauptplatz, you’ll find the Danube.

Step into Landhaus Brücke

The stunning Linzer Landhaus, built starting in 1568, can be visited through by anyone visiting Linz.  It was built on top of a former monastery that was mostly destroyed although a small portion of the original building remain today.  This building was a key place for education for a brief period into the 1600s where renown scientist, Johannes Kepler, taught.

Most of the building was redesigned in the Baroque style following a fire that destroyed much of Linz in 1800.  As of 1861, this historic building has been the seat of the Upper Austrian government.  Be sure to peek inside the stunning courtyards where concerts are held.

Go shopping along Landstraße

Landstraße is the heart of Linz’s shopping district although you’ll find more independent shops along Altstadt.  I ended up stepping into the  ALEX – eine Buchhandlung  bookstore to browse for books.  For something unique head to  Altstadt 11 – concept store.  I also enjoyed browsing at  Mobiliar & Raritäten Isolde  for retro furniture and household items.

Explore the rooftops

For truly unique experience, experience the rooftops of Linz complete with artwork.  For Höhenrausch, you’ll walk through and across the rooftops of quite a few buildings in Linz while viewing artwork from Austrian and international artists.  This includes seeing the ceiling of the cathedral and epic views over the city.

Families get reduced admission if going as a group although admission as of 2018 costs 12 euros per adult. Note: This is only possible between May and October, so check the yearly exhibition for updates regarding the newest installations.

Marvel at progress at the Ars Electronica Center

Linz is at the heart of the Austrian steel industry and it is not surprising that the “Museum of the Future” is located in Linz.   The innovative museum is covered in LED lights that allow the building to act as an art piece itself.  Inside the museum, you’ll find exhibits dedicated to biotechnology, robots, and technology related to solving human issues.   There are also temporary exhibits by engineers and artists showcasing the latest in technology.  The center is not just a museum, but an active research site.

Eat Linzer Tart in Linz

Can you visit Linz without having Linzer Tart? Linzer Tart is said to be one of the oldest cakes in the world with recipes dating back to 1653.  Linzer tart is made with redcurrants in Linz, which surprised me as I was used to having it with raspberries in the United States.

You can find Linzer tart at a number of bakeries around the city, however I was drawn to the stunning interior/exterior of  k.u.k. Hofbäckerei , a beautiful traditional cafe run by master baker Fritz Rath.  This baker inherited this recipe from his family who supplied baked goods to Archduke Peter Ferdinand.  

The cafe doesn’t have much seating and it can be touristy, but compared to many other cafes in town, it makes this up in the taste of the Linzer Tart and the atmosphere.  I loved having a coffee here with a Linzer tart.   Be sure to admire all the decorations on the wall.  (The cafe accepts cards.)

Admire Linz from below from Pöstlingberg and Linz Castle

Pöstlingberg and Linz Castle sit across the Danube with a stunning view over the city from above.  Is a visit to Linz complete without crossing the river? 

Linz castle is said to date back to 799 although not all of the walls are original due to the Great Fire mentioned above.  Inside, you’ll find a museum covering the culture of Upper Austria as well as artwork.  Even if you’re not a museum lover, be sure to get a coffee or make a reservation for a nice meal here as the restaurant inside of the castle one of the best views over the city. 

The Pöstlingberg is a pilgrimage church dating back to the 18th century that was renewed fairly recently.  It can be easily seen from various points in the city.  The interior is beautiful with elaborate frescos dedicated to Mary.  The terrace of the church has one of the best viewpoints over Linz… It’s free to enter although depending on whether you choose to take the tram up or walk, it may not be free to visit.

Take the bizarre Dragon Express through Linz’s Grottenbahn 

One of the more bizarre things to do in Linz is to take the Grottenbahn. This nostalgic ride that dates back to 1906 has an interesting ride through a world of evil dwarves, taxidermied animals, and dragons… Simply, you need to see it to believe it.

….Have fantastic Mexican food?!

Seriously, go figure. The last thing that I expected from Linz was authentic Mexican food.  At the recommendation of a friend from the US who lives in Linz, I ended up heading to Los Mayas .  This taco place with authentic food from the Yucatan region and craft beer place has affordable prices, a ridiculously friendly owner, and delicious food.

Note: for my vegan readers, I recommend Front Food.   This new vegan restaurant just around the corner from Taco Buddies has some great vegan takes on food, including vegan BBQ.  

Walk along the Danube

One of the simplest yet romantic things to do in Linz is to stroll along the riverbank.  There’s just something about the Danube that draws you in… In Linz, you’ll find a promenade for biking as well as walking.  There are a few charming cafes with a view to admire the view from.

Stop for a drink (craft beer or Hugos) in Linz

Linz has a burgeoning craft beer scene that I was surprised to find.  I loved the beer at Beer Buddies ,  a Linz microbrewery that shares a location with the Taco Buddies location mentioned above.  Otherwise, check out  die Marktbrauerei for delicious IPAs. For a drink, head to Chelsea Pub for the best selection. 

To truly drink like a local, be sure to order a Hugo while dining out.  The Hugo is a refreshing combination of sparkling white wine, elderflower syrup, sparkling water, mint, and lime.  It’s the perfect refreshment for a hot day.

Stop at the Johannes Kepler house

As Jacob has a mathematics background, we had to find the Johannes Kepler house at Rathausgasse 5, which sits within the historic city center of Linz.  Kepler spent quite a bit of time in Linz, where he discovered the Kepler Laws that govern the orbits of planets. (Kepler’s Third Law of planetary motion is his most famous.)  It’s not possible to do much more than see the exterior of his former home, which has been modernized, however the house is now used as a cultural center.

Explore the street art at Mural Harbor

Linz’s harbor is full over a hundred street art.   You can discover this stunning street art by boat or on foot with a guided walking tour showing off artwork by famous artists from all over the world. If you’re interested in street art, be sure to stop off in Linz and to leave time for seeing one of the biggest graffiti galleries in Europe at Mural Harbor .

Getting to Linz

The easiest way to get into Linz is by train.  The train between Salzburg and Vienna stops in Linz, so if you’re looking to save money on Austrian trains, consider booking a discounted ticket to stop in Linz on the way.   It’s a 20-30 minute walk from the train station to the town center.  If you’re staying in the area, Linz is well connected by bus to the surrounding towns, including Mauthausen.

For those with a car, you can easily park in the city center at many of the paid parking lots.   We were able to park for a couple of euros as we explored the city center by car.  You can fly into Linz with Austrian or Lufthansa, most likely with a layover in Frankfurt or Vienna.

Have you been to Linz, Austria?

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

February 8, 2022 at 10:58 pm

I loved reading your recommendations

I am going in early May on a river cruise down the Danube. I can either take a cruise that stops in Linz or Durnstein. Which place would you suggest if I only have the option of choosing one?

Please email me your response. And THANK YOU!!! Mary

March 17, 2022 at 9:44 pm

Linz is lovely, but Durnstein is quite unique if you prefer castles 🙂

August 9, 2022 at 10:54 pm

My parents were interned in the Refugee Camp (Displaced Camp): Wegscheid ‘Camp Tyler” DP camp. Would you know if there are any remains of this camp that I can visit? It was run by the United States. My parents left the camp in 1947. I believe the camp was closed in 1949.

December 1, 2022 at 8:46 pm

I would recommend contacting one of the Holocaust archives for an address and to find out! Apologies, I did not hear anything about this while there!

April 7, 2023 at 1:01 am

Hello: A group of us will also be stopping in Linz on a River Cruise at the end of this month and we have an entire day here (until midnight). Would it be managable (or wise) to try to get to Salzburg early and spend some time there and get back to Linz to enjoy part of the day there as well? There are 10 of us so we were thinking of trying to book a private tour/coach to take us back and forth,, would appreciate your thoughts!

April 17, 2023 at 8:06 pm

If you have limited time, it will be a lot to go back and forth. I think that it is wiser to enjoy Linz! 🙂

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Plan Your Trip to Linz: Best of Linz Tourism

Linz, Austria

Essential linz.

Trending in the forums

Linz Is Great For

Historical tours.

Cultural Tours

Walking Tours

Eat & drink

• Leonardo Boutique Hotel Linz City Center
• Courtyard by Marriott Linz
• Park Inn by Radisson Linz
• Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger
• ibis Styles Linz
• Ängus Downtown
• Postlingberg Schlossl
• Verdi Restaurant & Einkehr
• Gelbes Krokodil
• Grottenbahn
• Ars Electronica Center
• Pöstlingbergbahn
• Mauthausen private tour from Linz
• CITY QUEST LINZ: uncover the secrets of this city!
• Private Return Day Trip from Linz to Cesky Krumlov with Guided Tour
• Linz Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
• Private Day Trip From Linz To Hallstatt, English Speaking Driver

The Ultimate Guide to Linz Austria

Linz is a beautiful city in Austria, located on the Danube River. The city is filled with culture and history and is perfect for any traveller. Linz is everything you would expect from an Austrian city – lovely architecture, cobbled streets and lots of cafes.

Although it is not as well-known as Vienna or Salzburg, Linz should have a place on your travel bucket list if you are looking for something unique. It is small enough to walk around comfortably but big enough to offer a lot of things to do.

The city was named one of the European Capitals of Culture in 2009, and it is easy to see why. The city centre is small but perfectly formed with many beautiful buildings.

The old town is home to a number of museums and galleries that are full of culture and education. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about visiting Linz.

This ultimate travel guide to Linz will show you all the most beautiful places in Linz, what to expect when visiting, where to stay in Linz and things to do in Linz which will help you in planning a trip to Linz.

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Table of Contents

How to get to Linz

To start your exploration around Linz, Austria, you firstly need to travel there . By air, the nearest airport is located around 15km away at Linz International Airport.

You can easily get a bus from the airport terminal straight across to the city centre which takes around 25 minutes. The main train station in Linz, Linz Hauptbahnhof is a great hub for transportation.

The station connects with many major European cities as well as other Austrian cities such as Vienna and Salzburg.

If you are travelling by car, the city is well-connected to other major cities in Austria thanks to its position on the A1 and A7 motorways.

Parking your car in Linz is also super easy as there are plenty of public car parks near most attractions and at fair prices.

What to expect in Linz

The language spoken in Linz is German. This is the official language of Austria but most people still speak fluent English. The people of Linz are friendly, welcoming and very helpful. Therefore, this has created a strong sense of community in the city.

The currency in Austria is the Euro and all major credit cards are accepted at hotels, restaurants and shops throughout the country.

Always make sure you carry some cash with you just in case you come across an establishment that is cash-only. Regards to tipping in Linz, Austrians do tend to tip around 5%-15% depending on their experience with the service provided.

The weather in Linz is very similar to the rest of Austria and there are four distinct seasons. Summer temperatures can reach as high as 30 degrees Celsius, especially in the hottest month, July.

However, the temperature can also plummet in the winter months, where lows of -19 degrees Celsius have been recorded. If you plan on visiting Linz in the summer, make sure you pack light clothes that are easy to pack such as jeans and t-shirts. Whereas if you plan to visit in the winter, wrap up warm!

How to get around Linz

You can get around Linz in a variety of ways. You can walk, take the bus, bike or rent a car. If you are feeling adventurous and have time to spare, you could even use the train to take you over to another city.

Linz has a good public transportation system that consists of buses, trams and trains. The bus network covers most parts of the city and can be easily used to travel from one place to another at any time of day or night.

There are also several tram lines running through Linz which connect it with other cities such as Gmunden and Steyr.

If you prefer more freedom than public transport allows, then renting your own vehicle might be an option for you! You can also rent bikes for €15 per day from one of the many bicycle points in the city.

This is an environmentally friendly and fun way to get around town if you do not have access to a car or do not wish to walk.

The best time to visit Linz

You are probably coming to Linz because you want to see the beautiful surroundings and therefore it is best to visit during the summer months.

The summers in Linz are warm and cosy with warm and sunny temperatures. Many tourists come during this time because it is a perfect season for hiking and other outdoor activities.

You may also want to visit during spring or autumn, though these seasons tend to be rainy at times, it is still a breathtakingly beautiful time in the country.

The flowers will be blooming in spring! Great for those who love the outdoors, nature and wildlife photography. Adding to this, because there are not many tourists around at these times of the year, there will be fewer lines at popular attractions. This means less waiting around!

If you are wanting a completely different experience of Linz, try travelling there in winter. The Christmas markets are a huge hit in the city.

They start in November and carry on through until the end of December. The most famous market is held in the main square. They are a must-see if visiting at this time of year.

Things to do in Linz

There is plenty to do in Linz , whatever time of year you visit. There are many museums and galleries throughout the city, including the Brucknerhaus.

If you like nature, there are plenty of parks for walking and relaxing in. If you are looking for some retail therapy, then Linz has plenty of shops, including a shopping centre.

One way to enhance your time in Linz is to invest in a Linz Card. This is a card that can be used on public transport and in many attractions.

It will save you money and make your trip to Linz more enjoyable. Prices start from 16 euros a day and provide free entry to attractions such as Ars Electronica Center, Lentos Kunstmuseum and the Castle Museum.

Linz Old Town

If you have one day in Linz or a week, there will be lots for you to get up to during your trip. The first must-see area in Linz is the Old Town.

It is the historic city centre of Linz and has lots of lovely shops and restaurants situated here. Linz is known for its Old Town, which has retained many of the characteristics it had when it was first built.

In addition to that, Linz owes its wealth to the thriving Austrian steel industry. Many of the buildings in Linz are a result of this wealth and there are many beautiful examples to see.

The most famous building is the Rathaus (Town Hall), which was built between 1861 and 1869. It is located at the centre of Linz’s main square, where it still stands today.

The Old Town is also home to the impressive cathedral. This stunning building is worth a visit and offers great views of Linz from its tower. If you are feeling energetic, why not take a trip up there? The views are truly beautiful.

Brucknerhaus

The Brucknerhaus is one of Austria’s most famous music centres. If you visit Brucknerhaus, you will find concerts from both classical music artists as well as jazz performers (it is named after Austrian composer Anton Bruckner).

The building is a concert hall and opera house designed by Finnish architects Heikki and Kaija Siren. Its construction took place from 1969 to 1973, with an official opening on 23 March 1974.

Lentos Kunstmuseum

The Lentos Art Museum is an architectural gem in the city of Linz. It was designed by Zurich-based firm Weber & Hofer and opened in 2003. The museum is located on the bank of the Danube and has a striking facade with blue glass panels.

The Lentos Kunstmuseum also has an impressive collection of works by artists such as Andy Warhol, Oskar Kokoschka and Herbert Bayer. The building is also home to a cafe and restaurant.

Ars Electronica Center

This landmark building has been dubbed the name of “Museum of the Future”. It was opened in 2009 and is filled with technology-based exhibitions.

The Ars Electronica Center has been shining night after night with its individually controlled 38,500 LEDs that are built into the building’s glass shell. It is an extraordinary building that is a must-see if you visit Linz.

Linz New Cathedral

Not to be confused with the old cathedral that is situated in the old town square, the New Cathedral of Linz is the largest church in Austria.

The striking architectural masterpiece contains 20,000 stained glass windows. The building is also known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and was built between 1862–1924.

Linz botanical garden

Located just outside of the main city centre in Freinberg, the botanical garden features over 10,000 different plant species and has five greenhouses that contain many exotic plants from around the world.

The garden features separate areas devoted to the plants of various ecosystems. Linz botanical garden should be the first choice if you love the outdoors, wildlife and nature. It is full of rare wild plants, cacti and orchids.

What to Eat in Linz

The Linzer torte is a traditional Austrian sweet pastry that is made with ground nuts and spices, giving it a unique taste. It is often served in squares but can also be found in round shapes.

It is common to find them filled with raspberry jam or honey-sweetened custard with a lattice design on top, which makes for an extra mouthwatering treat! It is made with a very short, crumbly pastry that is fairly easy to make at home, as long as you have the right ingredients on hand.

You can find Linzer tortes in most bakeries and grocery stores. The Linzer torte originated in Austria around 1653 but has since spread far beyond its borders. It is now popular throughout Europe.

Linz itself is also known for its smoked meats such as sausages (Wienerwurst), ham (Schinken) and bacon (Speck).

You can find these delicacies at most restaurants throughout the town and they will not cost much either since they are considered traditional Austrian food.

Where to Stay in Linz

If you are not staying at someone’s house or apartment, where should you stay in Linz There are plenty of options including hotels, hostels and Airbnb. The first thing to do is figure out what kind of experience you want from your stay.

Do you want a quick place to crash for the night that is close to all the sights? Or are you looking for somewhere more relaxed and accommodating with a kitchen so that you can cook meals at home? These are the questions that will help narrow down your search.

Hotels tend to be more expensive than other options but have all the benefits that come with staying in one such as room service and breakfast.

They also tend to be located right in town centres, which makes them convenient if you are going out during the day and coming back late at night when no other public transportation might be running anymore.

Trend Hotel Schillerpark is a great recommendation for a hotel in Linz city centre. The location is central and nearby any amenities you may need such as highly-rated restaurants and shops. They have a wide range of rooms, from single to family rooms.

The hotel has both Wi-Fi and parking available for guests plus large windows with panoramic views. Other hotels that are affordable include Mama Muh , City Hotel Linz and Hotel Schwarzer Bär .

Hostels offer similar amenities as hotels like free wi-fi access and common areas where travellers can interact with each other over meals or drinks after spending hours exploring together during their stay in Linz!

Hostel prices vary widely depending on which one is chosen so keep an eye out while looking through reviews online. Some places charge more than others depending on location or amenities offered within each establishment.

Tours to do in Linz

There are lots of fun and exciting tours to do in Linz. Take the Linz Old Town Private Walking Tour and Cruise where you can explore the marvellous city on foot and by boat. You will experience sightseeing around the historic city with a top-rated private tour guide.

The tour covers the most important landmarks, including Linz Castle and the New Cathedral. After this enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Danube river to get a different perspective and view of Linz.

If you choose to visit at Christmas you may be interested in a Magic Christmas Tour in Linz. The tour will take you through the magic of the city at Christmas, including the Christmas markets .

Learn about the culture of Austrian traditions and enjoy seasonal products and food such as Glühwein. Your professional tour guide will help you experience Upper Austria from a different perspective. Expect this tour to be filled with holiday lights and beautifully decorated places.

Day trips from Linz

Linz is a fantastic base to stay in whilst visiting Austria. Day trips that can be taken from Linz include visiting the city of Vienna, which is about a 2.5-hour drive.

You can also take a train from Linz which takes just over an hour and spend the day exploring Salzburg. There are several day trips that can be organised for you to take the stress out of the logistics for you to enjoy your time in Austria more.

For example, you may enjoy a Private Return Day Trip from Linz to Cesky Krumlov with Guided Tour. The trip starts with your private transfer picking you up from your hotel.

You then visit the UNESCO-listed city of Cesky Krumlov with a tour guide, plus free time to explore independently. All finished off with your private transfer returning you to your hotel.

Is Linz worth visiting? Absolutely! It has a rich history, beautiful architecture and plenty of things to do. It is a great place to visit if you want to see more of Austria. It is also a great place to visit if you have limited time in Austria and want to see more of the country.

There are many day trips from Linz that can be taken, such as Vienna or Salzburg. The city itself has plenty of things to do so it is worth spending at least one night in Linz before heading off on other adventures.

Recommended tours in Linz

• Private Return Day Trip from Linz to Cesky Krumlov with Guided Tour
• Mauthausen private tour from Linz
• Linz Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
• Private scavenger hunt through the old town of Linz
• Your personal private driver for your stay in Linz
• Cycling Tour of Linz with a Private Guide
• Literature in Linz: Adalbert Stifter Institute Private Tour
• Linz Family-Friendly Historical Walking Tour
• Linz: Churches & Old Town Private Guided Tour

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Sam, a seasoned traveler across four continents and 49 countries, is a leading authority in travel planning. Her website, Travelling King, offers tailored itineraries and expert guides for seamless trips. Sam's expertise in luxury travel, fast travel, and destination guides keeps her at the forefront of the travel community.

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Linz Travel Guide: Top Things to Do and See

For as long as we can remember, Linz has stood in the shadows of many other Austrian cities. Somehow, the Regional Capital of Upper Austria , is still adamant on keeping their reputation as an “industrial city”. Of course, the industrial work and factory by the well-known voestalpine, (which has its main factories in Linz) contributes to this.

What we have noticed over the course of three visits to Linz, is that: although Linz cannot compete with Vienna or Salzburg when it comes to architecture – you realise that you don’t always need the classic, charming beauty to be impressed. Linz is different – and we found it more than just pleasant. In this travel guide we tell you our best tips for a weekend in Linz.

1. Linz Travel Guide: Top Things to Do and See in Linz

2. restaurants and cafés in linz: our tips, 3. the best linzer torte in linz, 4. shopping in linz: our tips, 5. transport and linz card, 6. our hotel tip: star inn hotel linz.

Ars Electronica Center

Its alternative name “Museum der Zukunft” (which translates to Museum of the Future ) is more than fitting for this particular place. The Ars Electronica Centre offers interactive exhibitions on the topics of technology, innovation and the media. You can imagine the AEC, as it is often called in Linz, as a kind of research laboratory. You are often asked to participate and to think along. Plan at least 1.5 to 2 hours for your visit.

About the Ars Electronica Center (AEC)

Address: Ars-Electronica-Straße 1, 4040 Linz (The AEC is located directly on the Danube, just a few minutes walk from the Old Town over the bridge.) Admission: 11,5 Euro (free with the Linz Card)

Lentos Art Museum

We also liked the Lentos Art Museum , which is also located on the Old Town side of the Danube river. Even from the outside we found the 130m long museum architecturally very impressive. They showcase alternating exhibitions in both modern and contemporary art.

Information about the Lentos Art Museum

Address: Ernst-Koref-Promenade 1, 4020 Linz (From the Old Town you can reach the Lentos Art Museum in just a few minutes by foot.) Admission: 11 Euro (free with the Linz Card)

Mural Harbour

One of our favourite places in Linz is the outdoor gallery of the Mural Harbour . You will find impressive graffiti art works from both national and international artists here on the buildings of the Linz Port – which you can also do a boat tour of. In any case, “graffiti” wouldn’t do it justice, they are and should be considered ” murals ” – works of art that are several hundred square meters in size. Boat tours takes about 1 hour.

Information about the Mural Harbour

Address: Industriezeile 40, 4020 Linz (It takes about 30 minutes from the Old Town by foot), so the best way to get there is by taxi or public transport.) Price:  39 Euros for a boat tour including a Graffiti crash-course (2 hours)

Main Square and Old Town

The huge Main Square (Hauptplatz) along with the Old Town (Altstadt), symbolise the heart of Linz. Unlike in other cities, the main square allows traffic of trams and even to an extent, cars. We particularly liked the area around the Bischofstraße and the street called “Altstadt”, where the Café Friedlieb und Töchter is located (more on this below).

St. Mary’s Cathedral

There is an abundance of churches you can visit in Linz. But if you only have time for one, then let it be the Mariä-Empfängnis-Dom – also known as the Mariendom . Hard to believe, but the cathedral is actually the largest in Austria. But not the highest: Vienna’s Stephansdom Cathedral is 2 meters higher. You can also climb the tower of the Mariendom Cathedral – only 395 steps to overcome before you can enjoy the 360-degree view over Linz!

Information about the tower ascent in the Mariä-Empfängnis-Dom

Duration: approx. 45 minutes Date:  Saturday, Sunday and public holidays at 2pm Price:  5 Euros Registration is necessary

voestalpine: Steel World and Factory Tour

A visit to the voestalpine is certainly not your average ‘attraction’. You can visit the exhibition called “ voestalpine Stahlwelt ” (Stahlwelt = Steel World) and have the opportunity to participate in a factory tour. A factory tour takes about 1.5 hours and usually leads through three plants: blast furnace A, hot rolling mill and blank manufacturing . However, it may be that some plants are closed for operational reasons and therefore cannot be visited – as was the case with the blast furnace a few years ago. You should have time to see the exhibition before the actual factory tour. Note: Photos are prohibited on the entire tour!

Information about the visit of the voestalpine

Address: voestalpine-Straße 4, 4020 Linz (You can get there either by public transport or by car – they have free parking on premises) Admission: 10 Euros for the exhibition (“voestalpine Stahlwelt”), 22 Euro for exhibition and factory tour.

Pöstlingberg

The Linzer Hausberg is located right in the city and is a popular destination, because you are rewarded with a nice view over Linz from the top. A magnificent basilica is perched upon the mountain top, which makes itself visible from various corners of the Old Town.

Many tourists and locals use the well-known Pöstlingbergbahn to ride up to the mountain. However, as we were travelling by car, we used our own transport – which was no problem. By the way: The well known Konditorei “Jindrak” (which we will elaborate more on below) also has a branch near the mountain station. So you can even enjoy the famous Linzer Torte with a view!

Danube cruise

If you want to discover Linz from the water, then we can recommend you a boat cruise. You drive along the Danube with the MS Linzerin for almost two hours and can see how Linz combines industry and nature. Here, for example, you drive directly past the famous voestalpine.

A Danube cruise is a lovely activity on a hot summer day, for example. With a bit of wind and a cool drink, the heat can be endured much better.

Information about the Danube cruise

Departure: Directly in front of the Lentos Art Museum (Wurm&Noé Donauschifffahrt) Price: 15.50 euros (with the Linz Card you will receive a 10 euro voucher that you can redeem here. More information below.) Times: late April to early October, daily except Mondays at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m Travel time: 100 minutes

Franz-Josefs-Warte

A little insider tip in Linz is the Franz-Josef-Warte on the Freinberg in the west of the city. From the platform of this observation tower you have a fantastic view of Linz in the distance and of the Danube.

You can reach Franz-Josefs-Warte after a walk from Linz Castle in about 20 minutes. Navigation is definitely easier with a map app on your smartphone.

Our tip: Very close to Linz Castle (more or less on the way to Franz-Josefs-Warte) there is a nice vantage point from which you can look out over the Danube. If you don’t want to walk all the way to the Franz-Josefs-Warte the viewpoint is a good alternative.

Admission: Free Opening hours: January to March: 10am to 4pm, April and May: 9am to 6pm, June to September: 8am to 8pm, October: 9am to 5pm, November and December: 10am to 4pm (we were in June though only got there at 8:15 p.m. and were still able to go up! The opening hours should therefore only be approximate.)

Observation deck Somnium

Since June 2019, there is a special kind of attraction on the roof of the Johannes Kepler University (JKU) – the viewing platform called Somnium. The architecture is particularly exciting here with all the wood and the steel lattice construction.

The view is also impressive, although you are of course a little away from the center. The Somnium is located on top of the Faculty of Science and Technology – it’s best to keep an eye out for the roof construction on site, then you can hardly miss the right building.

Address: Altenberger Straße 69, 4040 Linz (You can reach the JKU by tram line 1 or 2 from the main square in about 25 minutes. Alternatively, you can also come by car. Parking spaces are available.) Admission: Free Opening hours: Monday to Friday from 8am to 8pm (closed between the beginning of November and the end of March)

Restaurants in Linz

Rossbarth: Fine dining with great value for money. We can warmly recommend the Rossbarth restaurant if you are looking for a slightly fancier location. Here you dine in a beautiful vaulted cellar. The ambience is stylish and simple, but still cozy. Adress: Klammstraße 7, 4020 Linz

Rauner: Whether business meeting, birthday dinner or date – this restaurant is perfect for every occassion. Lunch and dinner are served non-stop. The menu features local dishes at reasonable prices. Adress: Kraußstraße 16, 4020 Linz

Cook: A very nice restaurant with an interesting fusion of cuisine: Asian-Scandinavian . Next to “Gravad Lax” (salmon w tartare) on the menu, many wok and curry dishes are also listed. The “Cook” is relatively small and there are only a few tables. Food is cooked in the open kitchen and the staff are extremely friendly. We would certainly come back! Adress: Klammstraße 1, 4020 Linz

Deli Linz: Deli Linzs offer smoothies, soups, and porridge at moderate prices. The cafe is also very nicely decorated. Perfect for a little refreshment after sightseeing. Adress: Herrenstraße 7, 4020 Linz

Pauls Steak & Veggi Linz: Pauls is one of the most famous restaurants in Linz. We would describe the atmosphere as a combination of modern and industrial. The restaurant is known for its steaks and burgers , but there are plenty of vegetarian options to choose from too. The food is excellent – thumbs up from us! Adress: Domplatz 3, 4020 Linz

Gelbes Krokodil: The Gelbes Krokodil is especially loved by vegetarians. We visited in summer and got to sit outside thanks to our reservation. The menu is full of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes – predominately Austrian style-cuisine. (Fun Fact: Gelbes Krokodil translates to Yellow Crocodile). Adress: OK-Platz 1, 4020 Linz

Donauwirtinnen: These days, the Donauwirtinnen is somewhat like an institution here in Linz. Slow Food is served here and a large proportion of the ingredients used is actually local from the region. We ate particularly well – definitely highly recommended! The restaurant is located in Urfahr district and only takes about a 15mins walk from the Old Town. Adress: Webergasse 2, 4040 Linz

Cafés in Linz

Café Gerberei: Our favourite café in Linz! The Café Gerberei is not only immaculately decorated to perfection, but we also felt that the best coffee we tasted in Linz was right here. In addition, the staff is super friendly. High recommendation! Adress: Pfarrplatz 10a, 4020 Linz

Friedlieb und Töchter: Very well known amongst the “Hipster” cafes is the Friedlieb und Töchter, which is located in the middle of the Old Town. They serve delicious coffee and very good cakes. We also like the purist-Scandinavian style with its very cozy decor. Adress: Altstadt 5, 4020 Linz

Jindrak: An absolute must when you are in Linz: try the Linzer Torte. This cake can be found throughout the city, but the most well-known place to go for the Linzer Torte is the traditional café Jindrak. Adress: Herrenstraße 22, 4020 Linz; Am Pöstlingberg 12 4040 Linz

If you are visiting Linz, there is one thing you cannot escape and that is: the Linzer Torte . Unlike Vienna’s Sachertorte for example, there does not exist any one original Linzer Torte. Instead, we learned through a lovely conversation with a waiter that: it can only be deemed an “Original Linzer Torte” if the cake was baked by a master confectioner.

Probably the most famous place in Linz for a slice of Linzer Torte, is the: Konditorei Jindrak , of which there are several branches throughout Linz. We decided to visit the main branch located in the Herrengasse. On the upper floor there are plenty of seats available and overall, it looks as if the interior has not changed in decades, but that’s exactly what makes such a traditional bakery so charming.

We also enjoyed the Linzer Torte in the Bruckner Kaffeehaus (Coffee House) on the Hauptplatz (Main Square). The atmosphere is much more modern than that in the Konditorei Jindrak. Small note for jam fans: The cake in the Bruckner Kaffeehaus had more jam, but it was also crumblier. However, no matter where you go: You simply cannot leave Linz without at least trying a slice of Linzer Torte.

We were thrilled at the number of young, “alternative” shops we found here in Linz. If you’re looking for cool stores, something different from the usual, then check out one of the following:

• Kleider machen Leute: Really cool fashion business with great labels – many of them produce sustainably. In English, the name of the store translates into: Clothes make people.
• inthebox: Cool Store which sells sustainable bags und shoes.
• Zerum: Fair and sustainable fashion as well as accessories. Definitely worth a visit!
• A/T Store: Amazing shop which sells minimalistic clothes.

Linz is pleasantly easy to get around. Most of the sights, restaurants and cafes (especially within the Old Town) –   can be easily reached by foot, no problem. For destinations that are a bit more on the outskirts of town, you can use public transport: they have a rather well developed tram and bus network.

We would also recommend you get the Linz Card , which entitles you to free use of all public transport. In addition, you also receive free entrance to a variety of museums with the Linz Card – as well many discounts on certain activities. We got ourselves a 3-day card , which normally cost 35 Euros and when you take all the benefits into account, it’s certainly worth it. The 3-day ticket also includes a ride on the Pöstlingbergbahn Cable Car as well as a 5 Euro Food Voucher, which you can redeem at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the city.

We stayed at the newly opened Star Inn Hotel , which we can highly recommend. The hotel is located right in the Old Town, but still has a parking garage – perfect! The location couldn’t be better as most places are easily reachable on foot. Our room was not too big, but very comfortable. As the hotel has only been open for a few weeks, you can tell that everything is brand new. The breakfast really surprised us and in a good way! We would definitely come back!

This link takes you to their booking page: Star Inn Hotel

Disclaimer: Invitation & Affiliate Links

This travel guide features the highlights of all our trips to Linz so far. We were invited by the Linz Tourist Board to stay and explore Linz. Most of the costs were covered due to this collaboration but we designed the program according to our own wishes.

Have you been to Linz before? Do you have any further tips regarding sights or restaurants for a weekend in Linz? Where was your best Linzer Torte experience? We look forward to your comments and travel tips below this travel guide!

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Hallstatt Travel Guide: The Most Beautiful Sights & Photo Spots

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Home » Travel Guides » Austria » 15 Best Things to Do in Linz (Austria)

15 Best Things to Do in Linz (Austria)

Linz is a beautiful and sometimes underrated city located in the northern part of Austria on the River Danube. As the third largest city in Austria it as actually of major importance and also a great tourist destination with many interesting sights and activities.

The great combination of historical buildings, stunning architecture, vast areas of green space, and modern innovations mean that Linz has as much to offer as such high-ranking Austrian cities as Vienna and Salzburg.

Since 2014 Linz has been part of the UNESCO Creative Cities network and this is apparent with the brilliant array of museums you can visit here.

1. The Ars Electronica Centre

If you are a technology nerd then the Ars Electronica Centre or Museum of the Future as it is also known will be like heaven.

This is one of the most fascinating places you could visit and the different types of technology and interactive features are so much fun to use and learn about.

The centre is split up into different rooms and sections that contain various items such as a virtual ping pong  game, a huge 8k resolution screen that displays different parts of the world in stunning high definition, interactive screens that show satellite images of earth, new technologies such as robots that respond to their name being called and even an information system you can access using a special touch pen that displays an amazing amount of detail about the world’s population and cities.

Even if you are not a fan of new technologies, the Arts Electronica Centre is a fabulous place to visit.

2. The Old Cathedral (Church of Ignatius)

This Baroque church has an impressive set of domed towers in the typical onion style for the period and stands proudly near the Hauptplatz square.

Serving as the diocese of Linz, the Cathedral was dedicated to Saint Ignatius and was originally constructed by Jesuits in 1669. Although the exterior is not as lavish as some other European Cathedrals, the towers are still eye-catching and the interior of the church is simply wonderful.

The features of the lavish interior include an ornately decorated wooden pulpit and choir stalls, many pink marble columns and a high altar complete with religious paintings.

The Old Cathedral is a must visit, and is also an interesting building to compare with the New Cathedral streets away.

3. Lentos Art Museum

Linz is a city that boasts several modern museums and the Lentos Art museum is one of such with a dazzling exterior that lights up in bright neon colours at night.

Aside from the enticing exterior of this building, the museum hosts a staggering array of artwork and is one of Austria’s most prominent artwork repositories.

With over 1500 pieces of work, ranging from classical modernist, to modern 19th century and expressionist pieces from the 1920’s there is something for all art lovers.

Not only is the artwork extensive, there is also a selection of sculptures and photography to feast your eyes upon.

4. The New Cathedral (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception)

In comparison to the fairly plain design of the Church of Ignatius, the New Cathedral boasts an elaborate and detailed exterior with many windows, turrets and beautiful stained glass windows.

With space for approximately 20,000 people, The New Cathedral (or Neuer Dom) is spacious and the largest by size in Austria.

The most famous of the many stained glass windows is the “Linz” window which depicts the history of the founding of Linz in great detail and colour.

Due to all the windows in the cathedral, the interior has an abundance of light and the whole area has a lovely warm glow in the sunshine – The rays of light fall through the windows and cast amazing shadows on the columns.

5. Ride the Pöstlingbergbahn

The Pöstlingbergbahn is a narrow-gauge railway that climbs up the steep incline of the Postlingberg hill in the northern part of Linz.

Starting from the centre of Linz in one of the main squares, the sublime old railway winds its way steadily (But steeply – it is one of the steepest in the world) to the top of Postlingberg and during the trip you can see the cityscape of Linz and plenty of beautiful scenery.

The carriages are all old and stylish and typical of what you would expect from a tram system in a city centre, but have been retrofitted and upgraded with modern electrics etc for safety purposes.

Not only is the ride fun and enjoyable in itself, but the scenery and things to do at the top of the Postlingberg are well worth the journey.

6. Pöstlingberg

This small hill (almost a mountain) is located in the northern part of Linz and is accessible by the wonderful Pöstlingbergbahn railway.

On-top of this quiet area of Linz is the Pilgrimage Basilica church, the Grottenbahn attraction and several restaurants and cafés.

Once off of the railway, you can see the amazing views of Linz below in sweeping panoramas.

The Pilgrimage Basilica stands out with its twin towers, while the Grottenbahn is an entertaining ride that takes you through a fairy-tale landscape lit up in beautiful colours full of trolls and fairies.

Postlingberg is a fine part of Linz to visit and you could easily spend half a day here.

7. Boat ride on the Danube/Linz Harbour

The Danube river is one of the finest (and longest) in Europe and has a great list of high importance cities on its banks – Budapest, Vienna, Linz, Belgrade and Bratislava to name a few.

In any city that this river runs through it is worth taking a boat trip to admire the city from a different perspective and enjoy the relaxing feeling of floating along with maybe a glass of wine in hand.

In Linz there are several different boat tour options ranging from shorter one and a half hour trips down the river and through the magnificent harbour, to longer half day trips to Vienna.

The main companies that run boat tours include Wurm & Kock and the steamboat company DFS Schönbrunn.

8. Enjoy a piece of delicious Linz Cake

Many famous cities boast their own traditional dishes and delicacies and Linz proudly produces the scrumptious Linz Cake.

This cake is heralded by the population of Linz as the oldest cake in the world and consists of a short crumbly pastry containing things like nuts and cinnamon, usually with some form of Jam filling and then topped with a decorative lattice work on top.

What perfect way to enjoy the city of Linz and to sample some of its traditional food by tucking into a piece in one of the many cafes or bakeries you can find.

9. Hauptplatz

The main square in Linz is an impressive open space that stretches from Klosterstrabe to pretty much the banks of the river Danube and is a central part of the down-town area.

Central to this square is the dominating Trinity Column which stands at 20m high and is dedicated to various disasters and times of hardship over the years.

In the past, the square brought great economic success to Linz as markets were held here, today however it is a place to admire the stylish architecture or sit in one of the cafes and people watch.

10. Mauthausen Memorial

In several parts of Europe there are unfortunately the remnants of concentration camps and labour camps that the Nazi’s constructed during the Second World War – Everyone knows what happened at these places so no details are needed, but several still stand today as grim and poignant reminders of the past and suffering.

East of Linz is the Mauthausen memorial and museum and the remains of the camp.

An extremely touching and meaningful sight, there are day trips available to the site and self-guided audio tours can be brought on arrival.

While not everyone’s cup of tea, Mauthausen is still an important historical site and a great deal can be taken in from what transpired here.

11. Linz Botanical Gardens

Also known as the Gugl, these Botanical Gardens are among the finest and most stunning in Europe.

With over 40,000 square metres of space and 10,000 types of plants you could spend hours admiring the wonders of nature here.

There is an outdoor section with different themed gardens such as a Japanese garden and an area with a pond full of water lilies.

Alongside the gardens stand an impressive arboretum with around 700 varieties of trees, and five greenhouses with a mind-boggling display of beautiful plants, cactus and flowers.

These gardens really are a relaxing and enjoyable experience and a great way to do something different other than sight-seeing.

12. Wilhering Abbey

While not strictly in Linz, Wilhering Abbey is only a 20 minute drive and is worth the trip.

In the grounds are several buildings including the main Abbey which was constructed in 1146 and has a charming white exterior dashed with pale orange stripes and crowned with an onion dome on the tower.

The interior of the Abbey has been designed using the “Rococo” style and is one of the finest remaining examples of this in the German-speaking world.

The abundance of colour, the sheer amount of detail and the interconnecting nature of the different elements create a feast for the eyes in a relatively small space.

13. Donaupark

A meandering stretch of open parkland on the river Danube and conveniently next to the Lentos Museum, the Donaupark is enjoyed by all and a lovely place to chill out in.

The grass plains are segmented and crossed by footpaths, with a promenade running parallel to the Danube.

Everything you would find in a typical public park can be found including scattered trees, benches, fountains and also some modernist sculptures.

The locals use this park for recreational purposes and you will often see joggers and cyclists together with people relaxing or playing sports on the lawns.

14. Schlossmuseum Linz

This old castle turned museum dominates the skyline of Linz and stands proudly as one of the greatest museums in Austria, there is also a nice restaurant with a view across the Danube.

The building this museum is housed in was constructed pre 800’s and was primarily an imperial palace.

The exhibits inside this museum range in subject and include a biology centre with displays on things like Woodpeckers, a geological section with information on different forms of landslide and even a section about modern and future photography.

The museum also has a vast range of cultural, scientific and archaeological artefacts and is truly an interesting place to spend a couple of hours in.

15. Voestalpine Steelworks

The world of steel and construction has never been so fascinating and this is apparent at the Voestalpine steelworks.

The company who are a large contributor to the Austrian steel industry have created this exhibition to show just how important this material is in our day to day lives.

The exhibition section has several displays including interactive elements where you can mix your own steel formula.

Together with the exhibitions and walk through areas, a guided tour is also available of the steel plant and you can see exactly how this gigantic site operates.

15 Best Things to Do in Linz (Austria):

• The Ars Electronica Centre
• The Old Cathedral (Church of Ignatius)
• Lentos Art Museum
• The New Cathedral (Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception)
• Ride the Pöstlingbergbahn
• Pöstlingberg
• Boat ride on the Danube/Linz Harbour
• Enjoy a piece of delicious Linz Cake
• Mauthausen Memorial
• Linz Botanical Gardens
• Wilhering Abbey
• Schlossmuseum Linz
• Voestalpine Steelworks

• 1 Understand
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.5 By boat
• 3.1 Linz Card
• 4.1 Churches and chapels
• 4.2 Monuments
• 4.3 Museums and galleries
• 5.1 Culture
• 5.4 Young people
• 6.2 Mid-range
• 6.3 Splurge
• 8.2 Mid-range
• 8.3 Splurge
• 10.1 Consulates

Linz is the third largest city in Austria . It is primarily known as a major industrial centre, but also has a very picturesque historical old town including Austria's largest central square, surrounded by an impressive ensemble of Baroque architecture. Linz has tried to reposition itself as a cultural hub with numerous new museums and events. The tourist slogan of the city is "In Linz beginnt's" ("It starts in Linz").

Linz has 205,000 inhabitants (2018). It sits on the banks of the Danube ( Donau ) river. It is the capital of the federal province of Upper Austria (Oberösterreich) and forms the heart of Austria's second strongest economic region.

Understand [ edit ]

Linz is an industrial city with huge steel and chemical works on the Danube, about halfway between Salzburg and Vienna. While it does not have the touristic significance of these cities, it is an attractive and interesting destination in its own right. The fact that you are less likely to be trampled by hoards of travellers is a bonus.

The area where Linz now stands has been inhabited since prehistoric time. The name of the city supposedly stems from the celtic word for 'bent', referring to the bend of the river Danube just east of Linz. During the Roman Empire Linz was a border settlement with a Roman castle ( Lentia ). In the Middle Ages and the beginning of the modern era, the city profited from its location on an important crossing of the Danube. Nevertheless, Linz never gained the historical significance of cities like Salzburg and Vienna and remained fairly small well into the 19th century. In 1900, Linz had around 80,000 inhabitants. The city's fate took a significant turn after Austria became a part of the German Third Reich in March 1938. In May 1938, construction started on a gigantic steel mill on the site of a former village in the southeast of Linz ('Hermann-Göring-Werke', now part of the steel concern voestalpine AG ). Linz turned into an industrial hub. Consequently, Linz was bombed heavily during World War II . Fortunately, the raids were centered on the industrial areas and the main train station, which meant that the historical city center escaped relatively unscathed.

Starting in the 1950s, Linz saw an industrial boom. However, while the population grew and the economy prospered, the city also had to learn to live with the severe environmental fallout of its factories and businesses. Linz gained a reputation as a dirty and unappealing city. While this reputation continues to this day in the heads of some Austrians, it has become completely undeserved. Extensive plant modernizations in the last three decades (as well as an industrial crisis in the 1980s) mean that air and water quality in Linz are now as good – or even better – than in the other big cities of Austria.

While Linz is still cultivating its image as a 'steel city', it has also taken great (and expensive) steps to become better known as a city of culture, music, and art. Several new museums have been constructed since the 1990s, and in 2013 the city finally inaugurated its long-planned opera house. Linz also gets a lot of international media attention because of its annual Ars Electronica Festival . It also hosts the "Klangwolke" ("sound-cloud"), a big cultural open-air spectacle with modern and traditional music and a massive light show, which is held each year in September. Linz was the European Capital of Culture in 2009.

• 48.30615 14.28789 1 Tourist Information Linz , Hauptplatz 1 , ☏ +43 732 7070 2009 , fax : +43 732 7070 54 2009 , [email protected] . May-Sep: M-F 09:00-19:00, Sa Su holidays 10:00-19:00; Oct-Apr M-Sa 09:00-17:00, Su hoildays 10:00-17:00 .  

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Linz has its own international airport, the Blue Danube Airport in Horsching just outside the city of Linz, but it sees very little international traffic. Austrian Airlines flies from Blue Danube Airport to Vienna and Düsseldorf and Lufthansa to Frankfurt , where you can connect to Lufthansa Group's extensive global flight network. Ryanair offers frequent low-fare flights to London-Stansted . There are also charter and seasonal flights to holiday destinations around the Mediterranean and to Canary Islands .

Alternatively, you can fly to the Vienna International Airport or Munich Airport and take a train from either city to Linz. Direct high-speed trains to Linz depart from Vienna International Airport's terminal. From Munich Airport, you need to take a local suburban train to Munich Hbf first and transfer to a long-distance train to Linz there. The total journey time is around 1 hr 40 min from Vienna International Airport and 3 hr 45 min from Munich Airport.

If you are flying Austrian, the train from Vienna airport to Linz is included in your flight ticket and Austrian guarantees your connection. See here for details.

By train [ edit ]

By bus [ edit ]

• ShuttleCeskyKrumlov.com ( Shuttle bus from/to Cesky Krumlov ). 1 hours . Offers door-to-door shuttle bus and private car/van transportation to Vienna from Cesky Krumlov, Linz and back for 420 Kč (~€19) per person. See the timetable. €19 .  
• CK Shuttle ( Cesky Krumlov shuttlebus service ). Offers a door-to-door transportation service from Linz to Cesky Krumlov and back for 400 Kč (~€16) pro person. The ride takes about 1½ hours. €16 .  

By car [ edit ]

Linz is connected with Vienna , Salzburg , and Munich via the A1 Autobahn/motorway; the Muehlviertel and the Czech Republic via the A7 Autobahn and the B310 regional road, and the south of Austria ( Graz ( Styria ), Klagenfurt ( Carinthia )) via the A9 Autobahn. It is also connected to Germany via Passau .

By boat [ edit ]

The website of the city of Linz lists all cruises [dead link] departing from the city. There is regular passenger boat service on the Danube from and to Vienna and Passau , Germany .

Get around [ edit ]

Linz has very good public transport . A map of the tram and bus lines as well as an online time table are available on the website of the network operator Linz AG . A one-day ticket is €4 for over 14-year-olds, and €2 for under 14-year-olds. There is also a 4-stop ticket (mini-ticket) for €1. Students can buy an 'Aktivpass', which allows you to buy a monthly card for €10, valid for all lines, and you get all tickets at half-price. Tickets are purchased from the electronic vending machines at each stop, as well as tobacco and newspaper shops.

Linz Card [ edit ]

The Linz Card (1-day: €16, 3-day: €35) provides unlimited public transport through the city, and free or discounted admission to two dozen museums, galleries and tours. It is available at the Tourist Office and in many hotels. Reduced price (1 day: €15/ 3-day: €33) for children, students under 26, and those who have a valid train ticket (ÖBB, Westbahn) with destination Linz.

See [ edit ]

When strolling through the heart of the city, one can literally sense its history. The lanes of the old town, which lies directly at the foot of the castle, communicate the feeling of past ages. Splendid town residences and chapter houses are worthy of closer scrutiny, as are the many inner courtyards hidden discretely behind arched gates. Moreover, the spacious, baroque main square with its lively hustle and bustle is never far away.

Linz is also a city of churches. With its 134-m tower and space for 20,000 people, the New Cathedral is Austria´s largest church. In addition, the city landmark, the pilgrimage basilica on the Pöstlingberg, is also clearly in view. A symbol of Linz is the Lentos Museum of modern art, which has a striking glass façade that is illuminated at night with alternating colours.

Churches and chapels [ edit ]

Monuments [ edit ]

• 48.30162 14.28717 7 Bishop's Residence ( Bischofshof ), Herrenstraße 19 . The bishop's residence is the most important secular Baroque building in the city. Commissioned by Kremsmünster Monastery (1721–26), it was built by Michael Pruckmayr according to plans by Jakob Prandtauer, who was also responsible for the monasteries in Melk and St. Florian. The impressive lattice gate on the staircase is by Valentin Hoffmann (1727).  

Museums and galleries [ edit ]

• 48.30588 14.2938 10 Provincial Gallery of Linz ( Landesgalerie Linz ), Museumstraße 14 , ☏ +43 732 774482 0 , fax : +43 732 774482 66 , [email protected] . T W 09:00-18:00, Th 09:00-21:00, F 09:00-18:00, Sa Su and holidays 10:00-17:00 . The museum has a large collection of modern and contemporary art, with rotating special exhibits of works by Upper Austrians. €6.50 adults, €4.50 concessions, free for Linz Card holders .  
• 48.30626 14.28768 12 LinzGenesis ( City History in Fast Motion ), Hauptplatz 1 ( Old City Hall, entrance near Rathausgasse ), ☏ +43 732 7070 1920 , fax : +43 732 793518 , [email protected] . M-W 09:00-13:00; Th F 09:00-13:00, 14:00-17:00 . A branch of the Nordico Museum with displays dedicated to the history of Linz and its famous residents. €8, free for Linz Card holders .  
• 48.33728 14.31242 16 Biology Center Dornach ( Biologiezentrum Dornach ), Johann-Wilhelm-Klein-Straße 73 ( near Johannes Kepler University ), ☏ +43 7720 52100 , fax : +43 7720 252199 , [email protected] . M-F 09:00-17:00, Su and holidays 10:00-17:00; guided tours Su at 14:00 . Has science exhibits with a focus on botany and zoology. Free . ( updated Jan 2017 )

• 48.24958 14.37781 18 Cowboy-Museum Fatsy , Traundorfer Straße 266 ( Pichling ), ☏ +43 732 791855 . Apr-Jun: Sa Su and holidays 13:00-18:00 . An unusual museum founded by Austrian entertainer Hans-Jörg Ratzenböck. It houses displays illustrating American cowboy life, with a replica rancher's room, sheriff's office, and gambling room. €5 adults, €2.50 children .  
• 48.277079 14.319846 19 voestalpine Stahlwelt , voestalpine-Straße 4 , ☏ +43 50 3041 58900 . M-Sa 09:00-17:00, closed Su and holidays . The voestalpine steel works run an impressive museum and experience centre devoted to the manufacturing and processing of steel, as well as applications thereof. One can visit on their own, or join an organized tour with a guide (1.5 hours), which can be expanded with a tour of the manufacturing facilities (3 hours in total). The Panorama Cafe atop the building offers views over Linz, drinks and light snacks. Groups can pre-order lunches there. €8 adults, €6 concessions/groups over 15 people, free children under 6 and for Linz Card holders; €8 factory tour .  

Parks [ edit ]

• 48.31046 14.26374 21 Linz Zoo ( Tiergarten Linz ), Windflachweg 1 ( halfway up Pöstlingberg ), ☏ +43 732 737180 , [email protected] . Nov-Mar 09:00-17:00, Apr-Oct 09:00-19:00 . Over 800 animals await you on your visit to the local and exotic fauna. There are cuddly animals to hold, a selected collection of mammals (llamas, pygmy cows, sheep, goats), a variety of birds (parrots, ostriches) and reptiles (crocodiles, iguanas, snakes). As an excursion destination the children’s zoo is always popular with the little ones. €4.50 adults, €2 children 6-13, free children under 6 .  

Do [ edit ]

• Football: LASK - Linzer Athletik-Sport-Klub - play soccer in the Austrian Bundesliga, the top tier. Since 2023 their home ground is Raiffeisen Arena (capacity 19.080) two km south of city centre.
• Old Town Walking Tour [dead link] .
• The Grotto Railway . Located in fortifications built by emperor Maximilian. Riding on the "dragon express", a mini-train in the shape of the mythological beast, the visitor travels through a brightly lit landscape of fairy tale scenes. A 1:7 scale model of the Linz "Hauptplatz" at the turn of the century is situated in the cellar of the citadel’s tower. In the side passages, there are depictions of episodes from famous fairy tales. Lift for handicapped visitors!  
• City Express , ☏ +43 732 797 555 , [email protected] . Touristy fun little train that takes you around downtown. Good chance to get off your feet and warm up in the winter. ( updated Jan 2017 )
• Danube . The cultural town Linz~Danube is the ideal starting point for a ship tour. Everyone will find his individual ship adventure in the large variety of cruise line offers. Whether you are looking for a round trip, a scheduled tour or a cruise for a special occasion, e.g. Christmas party on the Danube, your captain and his crew is already waiting for you on board of the ship.  
• Donauschiffahrt Wurm und Köck
• Donauschifffahrt Schaurecker
• ÖGEG: Dampfschiff Schönbrunn
• Donau Touristik

Culture [ edit ]

Linz has established an international reputation due to its extensive cultural life. You can visit the "culture mile" along the Danube, which stretches from the Brucknerhaus concert hall and the Lentos art museum and the Ars Electronica Center on the northern bank of the river. Linz also possesses a number of stage companies, which offer something for everybody in the form of a range of evening entertainment that extends from classic opera to modern dance theatre.

From June to August the Linz cultural summer features cabaret, open-air concerts and theatre on virtually daily basis at venues that are as varied as the programme itself. These include the bars and squares of the inner city, as well as the romantic Rose Garden high above the rooftops. Moreover, throughout the year, the Posthof features "contemporary culture at the harbour" with national and international performers.

• Kulturzentrum Hof .  

Events [ edit ]

Linz is a synonym for variety that is found at open air events, in bars and restaurants and in the theatre and on concert stages of the city. In late April, the yearly Crossing Europe film festival for young European film features works with unconventional, courageous filmic positions. At Whitsun, the Linz Festival offers a cultural open-air festival in the Danube park, while in July the international "Pflasterspektakel" brings over 500 clowns, acrobats and mimes to the city´s streets. Moreover, September sees the musical "Cloud of Sounds" in the Donaupark, the Ars Electronica Festival and the Bruckner Festival .

The Linz markets provide an opportunity to browse, and sample, whether at the weekly markets or the twice-yearly Fair/Carneval Urfahraner Jahrmarkt , which is Austria´s oldest public festival.

During the universities lecture periods (October–January/march-June) there is a wide range of student parties among the campuses of the 4 universities in Linz. Particularly interesting might be the weekly Mensafest every Thursday in Dornach/Urfahr on the campus of Johannes-Kepler-University and the gatherings at the Sommerhaus Hotel during the SAICCA program that runs mid-May through mid-June.

Cinema [ edit ]

• The Moviemento and City cinema s show films that are not mainstream in original languages with German subtitles.
• The Cineplexx in the harbor shows all the actual blockbusters. Thursday is movie night, so it is the cheapest day to go.

Young people [ edit ]

• The Posthof . Has modern music, dance and comedy performances, which is located near the port.  
• The Stadtwerkstatt (near the AEC). Popular meeting point for young people with an alternative lifestyle. They often have gigs with unknown bands.

Eat [ edit ]

A well-known specialty from Linz is the Linzer Torte , a torte covered with a latticework of dough and filled with fruit.

Eating in Linz depends on your budget, and taste. Be prepared to search far and wide for open restaurants on Sundays. The entire Altstadt seems to close down Sunday nights leaving tourists restaurant choices only in adjoining districts.

There are many luncheonettes in the city, offering a variety of food, such as Chinese food, kebab, pizza and typical Austrian snacks such as Bratwürstel (fried sausage) with Sauerkraut , Leberkäse , Bosner or Bosna (a special hot-dog with fried sausage and a special curry-ketchup-onion sauce), Käsekrainer (a sausage interlaid with cheese).

Budget [ edit ]

All these are in the city centre:

• 48.30637 14.28726 1 Leberkäse Pepi , Rathausgasse 3 . M-Th 08:00-04:00, F 08:00-05:00, Sa 09:00-14:00, 18:00-05:00 . You can get Leberkäse pretty much in every supermarket, but it's hard to find a place that serves as tasty and as various ones as here. It is a bit more expensive than in supermarkets, but the bread roll with Leberkäse is still low-priced. There is another store in the central train station. ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.304887 14.289274 2 Big Joe Falafel , Graben 28 . Serving tasty falafel sandwiches. The other food of the menu is terrific too. In addition, the operators are super nice. ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.305637 14.287887 3 Gösserkeller , Pfarrgasse 8 . Classic Austrian dishes like Beuschel, roast pork and schnitzel. The host very friendly. ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.304715 14.288795 4 Don , Graben 32b . Very good sushi restaurant. Also has other good Chinese food. The portions are quite large. ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.306671 14.291141 5 Linzer Heuriger , Lederergasse 15 . Rustic restaurant with good home cooking. Choice to eat either outdoors and inside the restaurant. Nice guest garden with a large chestnut tree. ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.304556 14.288546 6 Wokman , Graben 36 . Great Japanese and Chinese food. Simply furnished, pleasant place. The service is fast and kind. The menu is delicious. ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.301622 14.293186 7 Schadzi Cafe , Mozartstraße 19 . Great vegetarian and vegan dishes. Gluten-free options. High quality slow food ingredients. A breakfast here is special because it explicitly has oriental influences. Very nice, green guest garden in the backyard. Such a relaxed vibe. ( updated May 2022 )

Mid-range [ edit ]

• 48.29874 14.29119 8 Jindrak , Herrenstraße 22-24 , ☏ +43 732 779258 . M-Sa 8AM-6PM . A pastry shop serving the local speciality Linzer Torte (a cake). ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.303122 14.290855 9 Gelbes Krokodil , OK Platz 1 , ☏ +43 732 784182 . M W-F 12:00-15:00 17:00-23:30, Tu 12:00-15:00 18:00-23:30, Sa Su 16:00-23:30 . The Yellow Crocodile is next to/a part of the Moviemento Cinema, downstairs below street level. It has special vegetarian plates. ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.29972 14.29132 10 Stadtbräu Josef , Landstraße 49 . Daily 10:00-16:00 . ( updated May 2022 )
• 48.30659 14.28694 11 Alte Welt , Hauptplatz 4 . The name ("Old World") suits this restaurant and bar perfectly. The entrance is in a small courtyard, with seemingly uncontrolled growing plants. The inside reminds of an inn from former times. The often changing menu ranges from typical Austrian dishes to mediterranean cuisine, at a reasonable price. A variety of cultural events take place in the wine cellar. €7 for lunch .  

Splurge [ edit ]

• 48.341622 14.270913 12 Verdi-Restaurant-Einkehr , Pachmayrstraße 137 . ( updated Sep 2022 )

Drink [ edit ]

Drinking in Linz is varied and not that cheap; although if you drink outside of the city centre you will find that the cost of drinks are less than in the centre.

Local beers and warm "Glühwein" (hot, spiced/mulled wine) in winter. Upper-Austrian's "national drink" is Most (it´s cider but not fizzy), and Zipfer, Gösser, and Kaiser beer. There are many Austrian beers, of course.

Keep in mind that, contrary to almost the entire rest of the civilised world, smoking is still very common in Austrian bars and pubs.

• 48.30496 14.28645 1 Walker , Hauptplatz/Main Square . Open daily . A large bar/burger restaurant. Games room and occasional live music. Good breakfast menus. Great burgers.  
• 48.30477 14.28803 2 Chelsea Pub , Domgasse 5 , ☏ +43 732 779 409 . Open daily . In 2006, it came second in "The Best Irish Pub" competition in Austria. An English-named Irish pub that serves Guinness, and has a friendly atmosphere for Austrians and English native-speakers. Large open-sandwiches and occasionally has English or Irish crisps. Shows sports programmes on a daily basis.  
• Remembar , Passage Kaufhaus . Large and airy, on two floors, with enough "hip/cool" clientele to satisfy the needs of people with enough money to spend.  
• 48.31022 14.28451 3 Stadtwerkstatt , Kirchengasse 4 ( close to the Ars Electonica Center ). Has a nice cafe and live dj's (reggae,house,world music,hiphop) in the evening (daily starting at 22:00) Local bands (rock, punk, hiphop) appear at weekends. Concerts take place in a stage area upstairs (away from the bar) and are around €10. DJs in the bar.  
• 48.30579 14.28418 4 Smaragd , Altstadt 2 . Regular live-concerts in the dance cellar and a beer garden on the street in summer.  
• 48.30219 14.28989 5 [dead link] Eiskönig Landstraße , Landstraße 31 ( next to the U-Hof ). Mar-Sep: M-Sa 10:00-22:00, open holidays; closed Oct-Feb . You shouldn't miss Upper Austria's best Italian ice cream store. They have a multiplicity of ice cream flavours, something for every taste. You will also get coffee and Austrian specialities like Apfelstrudel or Topfenpalatschinken . Smoke-free. ( updated Jan 2017 )
• 48.30111 14.28523 6 Thüsen Tak , Waltherstraße 21 . A small hard rock pub. Books and posters lining the walls. Be prepared for cigarette haze and talkative, not-always-sober regulars of all ages. Mike, the friendly owner, occasionally serves a hearty meal for a reasonable price.  
• 48.30256 14.28761 7 Exxtrablatt , Spittelwiese . until 02:00 . Cosy cafe and bar. Sit outside in the summer until 23:00, or walk down the stairs into a large room. You'll notice typical (for Austria) coffee house tables and stools, and classic movie posters covering the walls. You get a good selection of beers and wines, and the usual long drinks/cocktails. They serve burgers and snacks, including some vegetarian. For dessert, there's a delicious chocolate cake.  
• Chay , Hauptplatz 15/16 , ☏ +43 732781014 . Mar-Oct: M-F 09:30-18:00, Sa 09:30-13:00; Nov-Feb: M-F 09:30-18:00, Sa 09:30-16:00 . Austria is famous for coffee but this small shop serves astonishingly good tea in many shapes. Split in a shop and a teahouse right beside to each other the menu offers tons of teas of excellent quality.  
• 48.306446 14.28387 8 Roter Krebs ( Grand Hotel Café zum Rothen Krebsen ), Obere Donaulände 11, 4020 ( 3 minutes from the Niebelungenbrücke or the Hauptplatz. ), ☏ +43 732 946 557 . Tu-Th 18:00-02:00, F 18:00-04:00, Sa 18:00-03:00 . Founded and run by artists, frequented mostly by students from the nearby art school.  

Sleep [ edit ]

• 48.25875 14.27218 1 Motel Pension Rosenhof , Wegscheiderstrasse 76 4020 , ☏ +43 732387069 . It's a lovely hotel with good rooms and a nice view, and there is a bus stop about 100 meters away between St. Isidor and Hart.  
• Das Park Hotel , Rodlpark, Ottensheim ( 10 km west from Linz ). Completely automated concrete drain tubes with beds inside, you book (through website) and you're given a code for the door. From May through October. Honour based system; contribute as much as you wish to the project .  
• 48.2912 14.289 2 Ibis Linz City .  
• 48.2809 14.30527 3 ibis Styles Linz .  
• 48.30497 14.28937 4 Hotel Mühlviertlerhof , ☏ +43 70 772268 . Graben 24-26.  
• 48.29855 14.2906 5 Austria Trend Hotel Schillerpark .  
• 48.30024 14.29325 6 Park Inn by Radisson Linz .  
• 48.29835 14.30484 7 Courtyard by Marriott Linz .  
• 48.31128 14.2939 8 Arcotel Nike .  
• 48.31043 14.28224 9 Spitz Hotel , Fiedlerstrasse 6 .  
• 48.30517 14.28626 10 Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger , Hauptplatz 19 .  
• 48.30274 14.28634 11 Hotel zum schwarzen Bären , Herrenstraße 9-11 .  
• 48.29987 14.28694 12 Hotel Am Domplatz , Stifterstraße 4 ( city center ), ☏ +43 732 773000 . Business hotel direct in the city center with modern and well furbished rooms.  
• 48.31906 14.30295 13 Steigenberger Linz , Am Winterhafen 13 , ☏ +43 732 78990 . Direct at the danube and close to the A7/E55 Autobahn this four star hotel is good located in the industrial area of Linz. Rooms are spacious and breakfast is good.  

Connect [ edit ]

Linz has 4G from all Austrian carriers. As of Sept 2021, some areas of the city have 5G but it's patchy.

Cope [ edit ]

Consulates [ edit ], go next [ edit ].

To the south you can travel by train or car to the wonderful region of Salzkammergut , with its picturesque lakes and mountains. Some nice towns are: Gmunden, Bad Ischl, Hallstatt , Bad Aussee , and many more. To the west is Salzburg .

Linz is a good stepping-off point for a trip into Southern Bohemian region of Czech Republic . Trains go to České Budějovice and on to Prague .

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17 Cool Things to Do in Linz, Austria

Linz, Austria, took me by surprise. Even if it is the third-largest city in the country, not so many tourists decide to visit Linz, favoring more popular destinations, such as Vienna , Salzburg, Innsbruck , or Graz. But there are plenty of great things to do in Linz, too, and you definitely should give this city a chance during your next trip to Austria!

I’ve been visiting Austria frequently for over 20 years and only made it to Linz recently. And even then, I underestimated the place, not knowing all that much about Linz attractions. As it quickly turned out, the city has a lot to offer, and I enjoyed my trip to Linz so much that I’ll gladly return there one day to spend more time hanging out in this vibrant place.

Whether you are planning to visit Linz as one of the day trips from Vienna or you would like to spend a few days there, I’m here with this Linz guide to help you plan your trip and enjoy the city to the fullest. Read all about the best things to do in Linz and have a wonderful time in this underrated Austrian city!

Planning a trip to Linz?

Here are the highly-rated hotels, tours, and services recommended for your trip:

Accomodation:

• Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger – Hauptplatz (8.9/10)
• Leonardo Boutique Hotel Linz City Center (8.4/10)
• Hotel Schwarzer Bär (8.3/10)

Tours and activities:

• Linz Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
• CITY QUEST LINZ: uncover the secrets of this city!
• Mauthausen private tour from Linz

Internet: Stay connected with Airalo eSim card – click here to get yours!

Insurance: Get insured for your trip to Austria with SafetyWing

Car rental: Compare prices and find the best deals on rental cars in Austria on Discover Cars .

Table of Contents

Where is Linz, Austria

Linz, a city of a bit over two hundred thousand inhabitants, is the capital city of the Upper Austria region, located between Vienna and Salzburg. The capital of Austria is about 200 km east of Linz, and a popular tourist destination – Salzburg – is 130 km southwest.

Why visit Linz

Linz might be known as an industrial city, but the area was already inhabited in prehistoric times. Still today, you can find there numerous historical Linz landmarks, like the castle dating back to medieval times.

But there are also many great modern sites, including museums, cultural centers, or industrial spots turned into art hubs. This variety and diversity of things to do in Linz was actually what I enjoyed the most about the city.

How to get to Linz

If you only have a little time in your Austria itinerary but would like to visit Linz, you can come here as one of the day trips from Vienna since getting here from the capital is easy. There are frequent trains between the capital and Linz, with a travel time of around 1,5 hours, depending on the connections. If you buy your ticket in advance, you might pay as little as 9€/one-way.

You can check the schedule and purchase the ticket at the website of the Austrian Railways here.

How to get around Linz

While you will find many Linz attractions in the center, within walking distance, some of the interesting places, as well as the train station, are located a bit away. Fortunately, public transport in Linz works well and is easy to use.

There are clearly marked schedules on bus/tram stops to figure out your way around; you will find there ticket machines too. The one-day ticket costs €4; you can also use a cheaper €1 ticket for up to four stops.

If you plan to take a tram to Pöstlingberg, it costs a bit more, but you can also purchase it from the ticket machines.

How many days for visiting Linz

You can visit Linz on a day trip from Vienna or Salzburg and see all the highlights in a few hours. But you can also spend a bit more time there to enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere and explore it to the fullest. I went there for one day, and while I’ve seen a lot, I wouldn’t mind spending a bit more time in Linz.

Things to do in Linz

And now, without further ado, here are the best things to do in Linz.

Visit the New Cathedral

The New Cathedral in Linz (also known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception) was one of my biggest surprises in the city, where my jaw literally dropped. This masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture was built between 1862 and 1924 and is the largest church in Austria. However, it is not the tallest one – even if the plans were to create an even higher church, in the times of Austria-Hungary, no building was allowed to be higher than the tower of St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Vienna therefore, the New Cathedral in Linz is shorter by two meters only.

The fantastic structure is incredible both from the outside and inside, so be sure to see its interior too. You will be impressed with the symmetry of the building as well as the beautiful and valuable stained glass windows.

In the back of the building, you will find a collection of gargoyles and parts of the cathedral’s ornaments.

Admire views from the Linz Castle

Located in the central part of the city, right above the Danube River, Linz Castle offers the best panorama of the city, with the flowing river, the Old Town, and beyond.

The first castle in that place was mentioned already in 799 – today, you can still find remnants from that time in the area. The castle went through major renovations in the 17th century – that’s the look we can still see now (with the exception of the part that burnt down in 1800 and was rebuilt in the modern style).

In the past, Linz Castle served as a hospital, prison, or military barracks; today, it is home to the local museum, where you can see exhibitions showcasing the artistic and cultural history of the Upper Austria region.

Wander around the Old Town

Linz Old Town might be small, but it has its moments, and the best way to get to know it is to wander around, letting your intuition guide you. There are so many charming corners, beautiful old townhouses, and historical spots; discovering them all is an absolute pleasure. This was one of my favorite things to do in Linz.

Enjoy the Main Square

Hauptplatz, the main square of Linz (and one of the largest in Austria), is bustling with energy all day long. This is where you will find some of the most beautiful townhouses in the city, worth taking a closer look at, as well as the old town hall.

But the highlight of the area is the stunning Holy Trinity column. With a height of 20 meters, it’s impossible to miss the impressive structure. The column was completed in 1723 as gratitude for protecting the city from diseases and natural disasters.

Due to its proximity to the Danube River, the main square served as the marketplace for years, placing Linz as an important stop on the trading routes. Today you will find numerous cafes and restaurants all over the square where you can sit, relax and enjoy the vibrant place.

Visit the Old Cathedral

Hidden in one of the backstreets, you will find the Old Cathedral, dating back to the end of the 17th century. It is a perfect example of the Baroque style that you can admire especially in its rich interior. Even if you are not religious, it’s worth visiting the cathedral to see the beautiful art decorating it.

For 13 years, the well-known Austrian composer of the 19th century, Anton Bruckner, worked here as the cathedral organist.

Wander along Landstrasse

The main shopping area of Linz (and of Austria, really) is Landstrasse – a long street, mostly pedestrian, connecting the Main Square with Landestheater near the train station. It is known for its numerous shops, both of popular brands and smaller, local ones. If you think of shopping during your trip to Linz, this is a place to go.

But even if you don’t plan to buy anything, it’s a nice place to wander around and feel the vibe of the city. It is also a very picturesque street, with numerous beautiful buildings around.

Admire the modern structure of the Musiktheater

This is one of the newest addition to the city’s scenery, dating back only to 2013 (making the place one of the most modern opera houses in Europe). The Musiktheater, located near the train station, next to the lovely park – Volksgarten – is an excellent example of contemporary architecture that catches the eye.

You can also attend one of the events taking place here. There is a variety of operas, operettas, ballet, and musicals you can choose from.

Take a tram to Pöstlingberg

A short tram ride away from the center, you will find Pöstlingberg, the local mountain packed with attractions. There is the pilgrimage basilica, the zoo, the photo gallery, and a viewing platform offering fantastic views over Linz and its surroundings.

To get to the Pöstlingberg mountain, you need to take the historical tram that’s been operating since 1898 (at first, it worked as the meter-gauge railway that was incorporated into the city’s tram line in 2008). The journey itself is an interesting experience since this is the steepest adhesion railway in Europe.

The Pöstlingberg trams depart from the Main Square, and the journey to the top of the mountain takes 22 minutes.

Admire the architecture of the New City Hall

Across the Danube River from the Old Town, you can admire the interesting architecture of the New City Hall, which opened in 1985. Unfortunately, I couldn’t find more info about it, but I liked this structure with the brutalist feel (and it’s no secret I’m a huge fan of this architectural style). The look of the New City Hall is really unique, with soft angles and interesting features.

This building was one of the biggest surprises for me in Linz, and I liked it so much! I just wish I could have visited it inside, too, but since it was Sunday when I was in the city, it was not possible.

Enjoy Ars Electronica Center

Across the street from the New City Hall, be sure to visit the modern Ars Electronica Center, also known as the museum of the future. You can enjoy there numerous interactive exhibitions about the latest inventions in electronics and technology. Unlike in other, more conservative museums, here you are invited to join the exhibition, to play with the artifacts for the full experience.

In the evening, the building of Ars Electronica Center changes its colors to give a colorful play of lights.

Visit Lentos Art Museum

A few steps away from the Main Square and across the Danube from Ars Electronica Center, you can visit Lentos Art Museum, one of the most important centers of modern and contemporary art in Austria. You can see there works of some well-known artists, such as Klimt, Schiele, and Kokoschka, as well as Austrian and German art from the 19th and 20th centuries. There are also some great temporary exhibitions you can see. The museum building is also interesting, especially at night when it’s lit in different colors.

Relax in Donaupark

Next to the Lentos Art Museum, you can find Donaupark, the major recreational area in the heart of Linz. It’s such a pleasant place to relax right at the shores of the Danube. There are also some interesting sculptures around, as well as the Brucknerhaus concert hall, known for its excellent acoustics, where you can enjoy some cool events.

Enjoy the Danube

The Danube River, flowing through the center of Linz, is one of the things that define the city. You can enjoy the popular river in numerous ways – you can go for a boat cruise, tour the harbor, or relax at the beach and the recreational area near Nibelungenbrücke right in the center.

Try Linzer Cake

Linzer Cake is a famous Austrian pastry originating in the city of Linz (hence the name) and is considered the oldest cake in the world. The shortcake pastry with redcurrant jam is often served with whipped cream and a bit of sugar.

Of course, the best place to try the Linzer Cake is in Linz, especially in one of the Jindrak Cafes you can find all over the city (there is one near the New Cathedral and another on the Landstrasse).

Visit OK Center

Hidden in the backyard of Landstrasse, OK Center for Contemporary Art is home to numerous exhibitions focusing on contemporary art of all sorts as well as space for art festivals. This cool alternative space is a bit different from other Linz attractions yet perfectly complements the day in the city. Even if no interesting events occur at OK Center, you still should visit the place to enjoy its vibrant atmosphere and colorful surroundings.

Explore Mural Harbor

This is one of the coolest things to do in Linz that I missed (and I’m ready to return to the city just for it). The large area of Linz harbor (warehouses, containers, cranes, etc.) was covered in murals, creating a unique open-air gallery, one of the largest art spaces of that kind in Europe. There are around two hundred works around the place, and new ones are constantly added.

Unfortunately, it is possible to visit Linz harbor only with a guide, so make sure to avoid repeating my mistake and plan your trip there ahead to enjoy all the street art around.

Go for day trips

If you are staying a bit longer in Linz, you can use the city as a base for some great and interesting day trips around. Some of the best options are:

• Mauthausen – the former Nazi concentration camp, just outside of Linz
• Hallstatt – probably the most picturesque and popular place in Austria, with a charming old town right on the lakeside and magnificent mountains in the background
• Bad Ischl – a charming spa town where the Empress Sisi used to stay
• Melk and Wachau Valley – the stunning area along the Danube known for picturesque landscape and stunning abbey
• Cesky Krumlov – a beautiful town in the Czech Republic
• Passau – a nice German city where Danube and Inn rivers meet

Final thoughts on visiting Linz

As you can see, Linz is much more interesting than it might seem at first, and the diversity of things to do in Linz makes it an excellent destination for a trip. I regret it took me that many years to visit Linz finally, but I hope you are not as hesitant as me and will include the city in your itinerary. You might be as surprised with the place as I was.

Further reading

I published many articles about Austria that you might find useful when planning your trip there. Here are some of them:

• 17 Amazing Things to Do in Innsbruck, Austria
• Your Guide to Visiting Sigmund Thun Gorge in Kaprun, Austria
• How to Visit Wachau Valley from Vienna, Austria
• Innsbruck Card Review – Is It Worth It?
• One day in Vienna – how to see the most in the Austrian capital
• 9 Wonderful Things to Do in Bad Gastein, Austria

If you are looking for articles about a specific destination – check out the map with all the articles I’ve published (and their locations). You can also join my Facebook group about traveling in Central Europe and ask your questions there.

Travel Resources

Below you can find the brands I trust and use when planning trips:

• You can find the best accommodation options at Booking . They have many discounts and excellent customer service. Click here to look for the place to stay in Austria
• I recommend joining organized tours to get to know the place better and to visit more places during your trip. You can find a great selection of tours at Viator or Get Your Guide .
• To always stay connected I use Airalo eSim cards – click here to get yours!
• For transportation and booking tickets online , I usually use 12Go or Omio
• Looking for the airport pickup ? Check Welcome Pickups!
• Never travel without travel insurance , you never know what might happen and better safe than sorry. You can check the insurance policy for Austria here.
• If you plan to rent a car during your trip to Austria check Discover Cars to compare prices and find the best deals
• Make sure to have the offline map always installed on your phone, they can save you so many troubles. I always use the free app Maps.Me .

For the end I left a few announcements that might interest you:

• Sign up to my newsletter or follow me on Bloglovin to get updates about the new posts
• Join my Facebook group about Eastern Europe, the Balkans and former USSR and connect with fellow travellers and enthusiasts of these regions – just click here!
• I’ve included a few handy links of services and products I personally like and use so you can plan your own trip to Austria too. They are often affiliate links. This means I will get a small commission if you book/purchase anything through my links, at no extra costs for you. Thank you!

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I have been in Linz for a full day. But I feel like it wasn’t enough. I would love to come back and explore more of the city. Main square is just lovely, full of people, caffees and restaurants. The old cathedral is magnificent. I would love to visit castle, Postlingberg and some other sites you are mentioning in this blog. One day is surely not enough for the city, but that was time I had.

Agree, Linz is such a surprising place and one day might not be enough to see all it has to offer.

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Linz Day Trips for Easy and Exciting Adventures

August 31, 2023

Linz, Austria, is a vibrant and exciting city full of fascinating culture, history, and natural beauty. With so much to offer, deciding which day trips from the city can take a lot of work. But fear not, as in this article, I will provide a guide to some of the most straightforward and exciting day trips to take from Linz. 

From charming villages to breathtaking mountain views, there is something for everyone to enjoy when exploring the area. So grab your camera, hop on the train, and get ready to experience the best of what Linz has to offer.

Mark Twain once said, “Twenty years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did do.” So, let these day trips paint your memories with the hues of exploration and excitement.

Day Trip to Cesky Krumlov from Linz

Take a private day trip from Linz to Cesky Krumlov, a captivating UNESCO-listed town. The package offers hotel pickup, drop-off, and smooth transfers. Travel comfortably from Linz to Cesky Krumlov and opt for a guided tour or independent exploration. 

With a duration of approximately 6 to 7 hours, this journey provides a convenient way to enjoy the charm and history of Cesky Krumlov effortlessly. Explore the well-preserved architecture, stroll through the charming streets, and capture the essence of Cesky Krumlov seamlessly and enjoyably. 

Linz to Hallstatt Day Tour

Discover the charm of Hallstatt on a private day trip from Linz, where you can enjoy a memorable experience without any hassle. This journey offers a chance to connect with history and the local culture while enjoying a calm and pleasant time. 

Hallstatt’s picturesque beauty awaits, allowing you to explore its charming streets, glide on the lake, visit an ice cave, or take in stunning mountain views. The tour includes transportation and a 4-hour stop in Hallstatt, allowing you to make the most of your visit.

A Memorable Journey from Prague to Linz

Discover an unforgettable travel experience from Prague to Linz with a private transfer with a fascinating Cesky Krumlov stop. Real Prague Tours offers more than just transportation – a chance to explore. 

Explore the charming medieval town of Cesky Krumlov as you travel from Prague to Linz. Learn about its history and visit its top sights, including Vltavou Castle and Budweiser Brewery. Carry the memories of this special day to Linz, Austria, where more history and captivating sights await.

Scenic Transfer from Linz to Prague via Cesky Krumlov

Get ready for a comfortable and scenic journey with Sebastian Tours & Transport from Linz to Prague. This private transfer takes you through the charming town of Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO-protected treasure. 

Your trip starts in Linz and includes a stop in Cesky Krumlov, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy a guided walking tour with a local guide who knows all the exciting stories. After the tour, you’ll have about two hours to explore Cesky Krumlov independently. Then, you’ll continue your ride to Prague for more exciting experiences.

Exploring Mauthausen from Linz

Discover the critical history of Mauthausen with a unique private tour from Linz. You’ll learn about the past of the Mauthausen concentration camp, which is about 20 km away from Linz. During the tour, you’ll visit the camp’s museum and a memorial at the nearby quarry. An experienced guide will lead the way and share stories to help you understand this significant place. 

You can choose where you want to be picked up, and if your plans change, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts. It’s a chance to explore history and remember those affected, all at your own pace.

Explore Linz’s Old Town & Danube River

Experience the charm of Linz’s historic Old Town and the beauty of the Danube River with a private walking tour and river cruise combo. Your guide will lead you through the streets of Old Town, sharing stories about the city’s history and culture. You’ll see highlights like Alter Dom and Schlosspark. 

After the walking tour, embark on a cruise along the Danube River, offering a unique perspective of Linz. Choose between a guided cruise or an unguided one. The tour starts at Hotel Motel One Linz-Hauptplatz and ends there too. It’s a wheelchair and stroller-accessible tour, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance if plans change. It’s a great way to explore Linz’s rich past and scenic beauty in one delightful experience.

Magic of Christmas in Linz with a Walking Tour

Enter the enchanting world of Christmas in Linz with the “Magical Christmas Walking Tour.” A friendly local guide will show you around the beautifully decorated streets and markets, where you can enjoy the festive atmosphere. 

Learn about Austrian holiday traditions, try the traditional Glühwein, and explore the charming Christmas markets. See the fairyland statues in Volksgarten and experience the festive mood at Linz’s Mariendom. Walk through the twinkling lights and discover the unique magic of Linz’s Old Town during this joyful holiday season.

Stress-Free Transfer from Linz to Frankfurt Airport

Experience a hassle-free and comfortable journey from Linz to Frankfurt Airport. Your expert driver will pick you up at your preferred location in Linz and ensure a punctual and smooth ride in a clean, air-conditioned vehicle. Say goodbye to the complexities of public transportation and the burden of heavy luggage as you relax and enjoy the trip. 

Arrive at Frankfurt International Airport and be conveniently dropped off at your designated terminal. This private transfer covers all taxes, fees, and handling charges, providing a convenient, straightforward, door-to-door transportation option.

Exciting Linz Scavenger Hunt

Get ready for a fun-filled adventure in Linz’s charming old town. With this scavenger hunt, you can kick off the quest whenever it suits you, ensuring flexibility to fit your plans. As you proceed, engage with intriguing puzzles and interesting facts while you explore the city’s captivating sites. Whether you’re aiming for a record time or prefer a leisurely pace to visit museums, churches, and more, the choice is yours. 

You even have the option to take breaks for lunch, shopping, or simply soaking in the city’s charm. Plus, with a 12-hour window to complete the quest, you can embark on this exciting journey at your own pace without any pressure. 

Discover Steyr Walking Tour

Explore the lovely town of Steyr with a walking tour guided by a friendly local expert. This 2-hour adventure covers Steyr’s highlights, offering a peek into its history and culture. The tour can be customized according to your interests and timing, ensuring a unique outing. 

Your guide will share intriguing stories and information about Steyr as you wander through its picturesque streets. If it’s centrally located, you can choose a convenient meeting point, your hotel. This tour promises an enjoyable and informative journey through Steyr’s past and present, making it a memorable experience for everyone.

Private Guided Bike Tours in Linz

Discover the beauty of Linz on a bike with your private guide. Choose from two options: a 2-hour tour of the Old Town, where you’ll see landmarks like the main square and the New Cathedral while riding a rented bike, or a 4-hour tour that includes the Old Town, Ars Electronica Center, and urban parks. 

Your friendly guide, who knows the city well, will lead the way. Meet at Donau Touristik GmbH for an enjoyable bike adventure that lets you experience Linz differently.

Linz, Austria, is a place full of exciting adventures, just a short trip away. From the pretty town of Cesky Krumlov to the beautiful sights of Hallstatt, there’s much to discover. As Helen Keller wisely said, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.” So, these day trips are like turning the pages of that book, adding colourful stories to your journey. 

Whether you’re curious about history, in search of holiday magic, or ready to pedal around the city, each trip is a chance to enrich your travel memories. So, step out of your comfort zone and discover new places – they’re waiting for you to explore!

Is it worth visiting Linz, Austria?

Absolutely! Linz may be less renowned than Vienna or Salzburg, located along the Danube, but its charm shines. As Austria’s 3rd largest city, it offers a delightful and often overlooked experience.

What is Linz Austria known for?

Linz, the culture capital of Upper Austria, offers Europe’s largest graffiti gallery and the Ars Electronica Center, blending art and tech – perfect for adventurous travellers.

How many days do you need in Linz?

You can explore Linz comfortably in 1 day, with its walkable historic centre and accessible attractions. Opt for 2 days for a leisurely experience or a Danube cruise.

How safe is Linz?

Linz is known for its overall safety, offering a secure environment for both residents and visitors. Compared to other major cities in Austria, Linz maintains a lower crime rate, contributing to a sense of security as you explore its charming streets and attractions.

Does Linz have an old town?

Yes, Linz has an Old Town filled with old buildings and lovely resting places. The shops are lively in the daytime, with some being very special.

Emma Reiter is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves to explore new places and cultures. She has a passion for writing about Linz, Austria, a city that combines modernity, technology, and art with a charming and historic atmosphere.

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The gastronomic scene in Linz makes it easy to enjoy Linz as a treat for all the senses. Whether an exquisite award-winning restaurant, a no -nonsense Gasthaus, or a fashionable place to be seen dining in – Linz has the right place to suit every taste and every time of day, so that you can celebrate in style or simply enjoy a treat for your taste-buds. But what should you absolutely not miss out on? The “original Linzer Torte”, probably the most well-known cake, made using the world’s oldest recipe. This cake is, incidentally, the most popular souvenir of Linz, and anyone who fancies themselves as a cake-maker can even have a go at making their own cake – a number of shops offer “Schaubacken” (“exhibition baking”). Upper Austrian cuisine is based on a wealth of traditions and customs. Typical Upper Austrian delicacies such as Schweinsbraten mit Knödel (roast pork with dumplings) and Sauerkraut (pickled cabbage) are two of the local favourites. When it comes to beer, in Upper Austria it is more than just something to quench a thirst it is a longstanding part of the culture, firmly rooted in the traditions of the area. Across the whole region, you will find many breweries with their own unique speciality beers, with something to suit every taste. Most – a fermented apple or pear juice - is considered the national drink of Upper Austria. From mild to muscular, from sweet to crisp, Most is to be found in every conceivable taste option.

The Linz café scene is very diverse, offering something to suit every taste – from the typical Kaffeehaus in the Viennese style through to cafés for the contemporary lifestyle. Tip: Don’t forget to try the original Linzer Torte.

Bars & Nightlife

Turning night into day is made easy in Linz: in the evenings, alongside the extensive cultural offerings, the central area of Linz presents itself as the meeting-place for friendly get-togethers or full-on celebrations. From legendary bars to modern lifestyle bars, everything is to be found there. The Linz “Bermuda Triangle” of its old town is probably the most widely-known bar district in the city, and it offers something to suit every musical taste.

The Linzer Landstrasse is one of the most-frequented shopping streets in Austria. Here, and in the side-streets leading off it, stores invite visitors to window-shop, and shopping passages offer something to suit every taste. Both global brands and small stores for tasting and rummaging through are represented - Linz stands out for this mix of traditional and modern. The Linz City Ring organises regular store shopping evenings and Land-themed events on a regular basis. Linz Labyrinth offers shoppers a collaboration of young, modern stores in the side-streets – see www.linzlabyrinth.at

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Borders Of Adventure

Leading Culture and Adventure Travel Blog by Becki Enright. Looking at the world with a different angle to change perceptions of misunderstood places, for the best in travel.

Austria , Cultural Travel

Things to Do in Linz, Austria – The City of Creative Arts

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Rarely at the top of the list to visit and stuck in the shadow of other Austrian cities, setting out to find all the things to do in Linz that stem from the city’s creative arts scene might well change your perceptions about how much there is to love about Austria’s third-largest city.

Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, sets out to showcase the best of itself visually and artistically, proving that as a Federal capital, its worthy of attention. 

A city proud to describe itself as future-orientated, Linz has transformed over the decades by continuously embracing change. It soon becomes apparent that the arts form the very core of its identity.

Historically, Linz grew from the Roman fortification of Lentia to a flourishing town in the 15th century, home to Habsburg Emperor Frederick III, but is largely defined by its 17th-century Old Town quaintness and wealthy steel industry status. It’s a Danube river city whose artistic revival was first ignited in darker days when Hitler wanted to restructure and use it as a core European base and rebuild it as the main cultural centre of the Third Reich.

Today, Linz has evolved into a designated European Capital of Culture (2009) and a UNESCO Media Arts City. It has grown to become home to educational institutions and research facilities involved in the development and understanding of media art and digital culture and further established itself as a European centre for social innovation and artistic enterprise.

Beyond the pastel hues which come to define old Austrian towns, are the city’s multi-layers of artistic flair here. Where contemporary arts seamlessly blend with the city’s historic structures to form a collection of cultural hubs, funky hangouts and artistic business ventures.

So, where can you find it all when you visit Linz? This list pulls together the places to visit in Linz, the city’s top sifghts and attractions, and the spots that will make you see it differently. 

Things to Do in Linz, Austria – Changing Perceptions of the City of Creative Arts

Stroll Linz Old Town – History in Architecture

Enjoy creative hangouts on the linz danube riverside, visit linz museums and core visual arts centres, eat original linzer torte at jindrak café , browse boutique stores and culture cafes, take a theatre costume guided tour in linz, find the giant map of linz in the town hall , marvel the modern remake of linz castle, see modern art stained glass in the biggest church in austria, see rooftop artworks at höhenrausch in oö kulturquartier, mural harbour – linz industrial heritage in art, is linz worth visiting, getting to linz, the linz card for transport and attractions, where to stay in linz, arts festivals in linz, further information about planning a trip to linz, things to do in linz austria to see it differently.

Linz doesn’t forget its history and nor is it overlooked or replaced.

On one side of the Danube River is the historic railway line that takes you to the fairy tale castle on the Pöstlingberg Mountain to the Pöstlingberg Pilgrimage Basilica that overlooks the city. On the other are the preserved minty greens, soft blues, butter yellows and delicate pink facades of the Old Town with its avenues of flagstones and archways.

The lovingly restored showpieces are incorporated within the city’s contemporary expansion.

Linz Pöstlingberg Mountain – take the scenic tramway to the pilgrimage basilica at the top.

The splendour of Linz Old Town.

Historic Linz Old Town boulevard.

Imperial Linz architectural details.

The Trinity Column in Linz old town main square.

It’s not just the town itself humming with new ideas. One of the things to do in Linz is to delve into the social culture that has been built upon the waterfront. Riverside green spaces are accompanied by independent enterprises such as the red van ‘pay as you like cafe’ and crazy golf by the river and the Salonschiff Fräulein Florentine gastropub on a boat.

Green spaces, walking paths, and docked boats on the Danube River in Linz.

‘Pay as you like cafe’ and crazy golf on the Danube in Linz.

The Salonschiff Fräulein Florentine gastropub.

Along the river bank, I visited the bold-edged glass structures housing two of the city’s core arts centres. The visual media and technology Ars Electronica Centre, which focuses on digital issues of the future (and whose ‘FutureLab’ research unit is a worldwide top 10 media laboratory), and the modern art collection that fills the Lentos Kunstmuseum.

The bold and futuristic Ars Electronica Centre in Linz.

A cool hangout on the wall of the Ars Electronica Centre.

The reflective Lentos Kunstsmuseum and art gallery in Linz.

Besides churches and cultural hubs, what is Linz famous for? The Linzer Torte – the indication of the origin of this famed Austrian cake. While the recipe of this jam-filledbuttery-almond pastry date back to 1653, where a recipe was found in the cookbook a Countess, the Jindrak café lays claim to baking the “Original Linzer Torte”.

Visit here and get yourself a slice of the Linzer Torte that’s been served here since 1929.

Try original Linzer Torte at Leo Jindrak café.

A slice of Linzer Torte in its namesake city.

Cake-filled tradition rubs shoulders with modernity with boho-cool coffee shops like Friedlieb und Töchter serving up avocado toast breakfasts and international coffees, boutique outlets outshining modern chain stores and the cultural centre Stadtwerkstatt standing as a symbol of communication. It was established by activists protesting the modern concrete development of the old town. 

The modern Friedlieb und Töchter coffee shop.

The Stadtwerkstatt cultural centre and cafe.

Art goes beyond galleries and architecture. Theatre costume guided tours bring the old streets of Linz and their stories to life via theatre and drama. The interactive group tours, for up to 35 people, are by request. 

Even the Town Hall has brushed off a typical stuffy civil structure by becoming an exhibition space showcasing Linz from above. A giant aerial city view of Linz is displayed under foot, in one of the large ground-floor rooms.

The giant aerial city view of Linz on the floor of the Town Hall.

The South Wing of the Linzer Schloss (Linz Castle), which burnt down in 1800, is replaced by modern architectural construction and is home to the Schlossmuseum documenting the early history of Linz. 

The modern South Wing of Linz Castle.

In Linz, you’ll find the Mariendom – the biggest church in Austria. Keeping with the city’s artistic streak, it features stained glass windows displaying modern-art designs.

The modern art stained glass windows at the biggest church in Austria.

My favourite space is Höhenrausch – an annual art event and creative space. It’s set within the repurposed area known as the OÖ Kulturquartier . It incorporates over 30 indoor, outdoor and rooftop artworks with great views across the city, even to the point of incorporating artworks onto the front of the Ursulinen Church next to it.

The wooden tower, erected amongst it all, allows you the most artistic view – Linz in a 360 panorama and the perfect display of its many layers of old and new.

The creative Höhenrausch space in the OÖ Kulturquartier (Culture Quarter) in Linz.

Part of the elevated panorama view of Linz from the Höhenrausch tower.

An angel artwork on the Ursulinen Church.

Creative minds and hands have given the industrial heritage of Linz a makeover, showcased in the area called Mural Harbour. Urban development can be found all along the Danube, such as Tabakfabrik – a former tobacco factory turned hub for makers and designers and soon-to-be home to an international research centre for media and performance arts (Valie Export Centre).

A boat trip on the Linz Harbour eventually takes you to the commercial port transformed into a giant street art space. While you can’t get off here for a closer look, the boat allows access to the art mural wall, which has become one of the world’s most extensive outdoor galleries.

One of the artworks found on Linz’s Mural Harbour.

Various murals adorn the industrial buildings, with works from international creatives, including Spanish street artist ARYZ whose artwork – the biggest of them all – has come to symbolise this area’s transformation. During the outdoor event known as Bubble Days, street and graffiti artists are invited to come and decorate the space, expanding Linz’s international art platforms.

Plan your boat trip along the Danube . The Hafentour (Harbour tour) aboard the MS Linzerin departs six times daily at 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00 and 16:00. Tickets cost €12 per person. You can also book Hafentour tickets via GetYourGuide. 

Linz Harbour art mural on the Danube.

‘Say Linz. Say Change’ is one of the city’s taglines – it’s not afraid to try something new as it incorporates an ultra-contemporary present into its cherished centuries-old past.

When it comes to the things to do in Linz, it’s clear it is a city that likes nothing more than to treat visitors to sensory overload, both interactive and visual, in honour of the media arts and forward-thinking dynamism for which it is often rewarded.

Travel Tips for When You Visit Linz

Want to know how to get to Linz and how best to spend your time once you arrive? These tips have your trip covered. 

A Panorama of Linz attractions.

The city is a perfect weekend getaway, taking approximately 90 minutes by train from Vienna and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Salzburg. Linz is connected to all major Austrian cities via the ÖBB national rail network and the private operator, Westbahn, although Innsbruck is the furthest away by close to 4 hours. 

• Search train tickets for travel from Vienna to Linz .
• Search train tickets for travel from Salzburg to Linz .

The digital Linz Card includes the use of all public transport within the city, a return ticket (uphill and downhill) to the Pöstlingberg Tram, admission to all museums, discounts on over 15 attractions, a €10 voucher for some concerts and theatres and a €5 restaurant voucher.

A 3-day card costs €35, a two-day card is €27 and a one-day card is also available for €16.

The modern-decked renovated 15th-century Hotel Schwarzer Bär is a family-run accommodation in Linz city centre. Choose a room with a balcony or enjoy the view from the roof terrace and bar. 

The stylish adult-only Hotel Am Domplatz has Mariendom Cathedral views and several spa facilities. 

For a no-fuss, self check-in hotel in a quiet corner of Linz, check ART-INN Design Self-Check-in Hotel . 

Linz plays host to many annual festivals, including the Ars Electronica festival, Crossing Europe Film Festival, the Pflasterspektakel street art festival, Nextcomic comedy festival and the Linzer Krone Fest of music acts.

For further inspiration, visit the Linz Tourism Website .

Are you travelling around Austria? Read more about neighbouring areas and days trips from Linz including the nearby Danube Cycle Path near Linz and how to get the most out of visiting Salzburg .

My trip to Linz was part of an Austria project involving various cities, regions and activities all over Austria. All opinions remain my own. 

About Becki

Becki Enright is a British Travel Press Award-winning writer whose work focuses on changing perceptions about misunderstood aspects of destinations. Her writing combines storytelling with insight into the social, historical, political and economic factors that shape the country or place in relation to tourism. Becki has appeared live on Sky News and CNN and has contributed to high profile media including National Geographic, Time.com, Guardian online, New York Times, Grazia and Buzzfeed.

Carolina says

6 September 2016 at 10:52 am

Nice post! I love Linz! I think I has so much to offer! I hope people put it on their travel list.

16 July 2016 at 7:04 am

Linz will be on our list someday. We were in Vienna a few years ago and in a month we will be visiting Salzburg. Austria it is always a very very good idea.

Kirstie says

9 July 2016 at 3:20 pm

I loved Ars Electonica and so did the kids. Love the sound of the art wall too. Sounds like a new visit is in order.

Stuart Forster says

8 July 2016 at 2:42 pm

I’ve often wondered what Linz is like. Despite having travelled widely in Austria it’s a place I’m yet to visit. Thanks for sharing your impressions.

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Where to find mexico city’s best pastries.

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A few reasons why Panadería Rosetta is so popular.

Mexico City’s culinary offerings are abundant , ensuring visitors never run out of things to try. While its savory cuisine usually captures most diners’ attention, don’t overlook the sweet offerings. In fact, if a waiter offers you “sweet bread,” say yes. Chances are he’s referring to pastry, as it’s the literal translation of pan dulce .

Conchas (brioche-like dough topped with a sugary vanilla or chocolate crust) and pan de muerto (made exclusively around the Day of the Dead ) are some of the most traditional, but there are plenty of other treats to keep your sweet tooth happy.

Here is a list of five places to find some of Mexico City’s best pastries.

Panadería Rosetta

Panadería Rosetta’s legendary guava rolls are an Instagram sensation, but you need to taste them in real life. Walking down Colima Street in the trendy Roma neighborhood, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the bake shop once you see the line of expectant customers. The spot is tiny but has a seating area on a wooden terrace. You’ll have a better chance of scoring a table if you go midweek, but there’s always the option of asking for takeaway.

Acclaimed chef Elena Reygadas first became known for her nearby restaurant Rosetta , but has quickly expanded her culinary empire to include two bakeries in Roma, three restaurants and cafés in the Roma, Condesa and Juarez neighborhoods ( Bella Aurora , Lardo and Café Nin , respectively) and a bar on the second floor of her flagship restaurant.

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Odette’s treats.

This artisanal bakery’s location in the upscale Lomas de Chapultepec neighborhood has been garnering fans since it opened in 2016. It wasn’t until 2023, though, when it set up a second store in the more central Condesa, that the rest of the city fell in love with these sugary creations.

There are several winners among young pastry chef Odette Olavarri’s immaculate display of pan dulce, starting with the Ferrero Rocher-coated croissants. She’s been known to make pan de muerto croissants during the Day of the Dead and innovates constantly through seasonal products alongside what have now become Odette staples.

This small and often-crowded bakery in Condesa specializes in sourdough and rustic bread but also has toasties, baguette sandwiches and BLTs. With only eight tables, it’s best to visit during the week. Still, its empanadas, pain au chocolat and orejas (elephant ear-shaped puff pastries with butter and sugar) can be easily enjoyed as you stroll through the leafy neighborhood. Saint’s coffee is also excellent.

This French-style bakery is owned by Ana Melissa and creative pâtissier Daniel López.

Chocolate cruffins and more.

Panadería Gala

Those who like speakeasies will be delighted with this new bakery in Roma. Known as a speakeasy bakery, Panadería Gala is hidden in a cozy kitchen at the end of a long corridor. On arrival, you ring a doorbell and are escorted to a table where you can taste freshly baked bread straight out of the oven.

Chef Eduardo García, from heralded Máximo Bistrot and Lalo , is said to spend most of his time at Gala, where the bread for all his venues is baked. You’ll find traditional pastries like conchas and pain au chocolat (called chocolatines in Mexico). Still, the frangipane (made from almond paste) and chocolate cruffins (a hybrid between a croissant and a muffin) are worth the calories. Given the place’s clandestine nature, arrive early (it’s only open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.) and don’t set your heart on any particular pastry — availability is based on what’s being baked that day.

Six years in the making and a pandemic later, Marne opened its doors in the Cuauhtemoc neighborhood before relocating to its home in San Miguel Chapultepec. Paco González, who used to run the coffee program for Enrique Olvera’s entire restaurant group, including the well-respected Pujol and Eno, helms the bakery and specialty coffee shop . At Marne, González is both the founder and barista, and he can be seen carefully preparing coffee using different techniques and beans.

Besides great coffee, Marne serves tempting pastries and is known for its pain au chocolat and maritozzi (Italian brioche buns filled with custard cream and sprinkled with sugar).

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This City Was Named the Happiest in the World — and No, It's Not in Finland

Looking to feel happier? It's time to head to this tiny European nation.

Thomas Roche/Getty Images

How, exactly, do you measure happiness? The Institute for Quality of Life thinks it's got the math down — and has even named a few of the happiest cities in Europe. 

Every year, the organization creates its index of the happiest cities, though the way it forms that list is rather complex. 

"The ranking was created on the basis of thousands of indicators thoroughly developed by our researchers that directly relate to the quality of life and the sense of happiness of its residents," the organization explains on its methodology page. "Importantly, we do not analyze the happiness of an imaginary individual in every location in the world, but people actually living in these cities." 

So, every year, it makes "every effort to objectively and reliably assess what is most important for city dwellers and on this basis assess the sense of happiness" through open data and interviews with residents for what's known as a mixed-methods approach combining both qualitative and quantitative information. Quantitative data includes information on diversity and inclusion, education opportunities, the political involvement of citizens, the health of the environment, the local economy, and access to public transportation. (It includes much more, so read the full methodology here .) 

After looking at all the data, it gave the city of Aarhus, Denmark , the highest total score thanks to its high environmental score, government involvement by citizens, and its ease of mobility. 

In case you're unfamiliar with it, Aarhus is the second-largest city in Denmark and is located along the waters of the Bay of Aarhus. It's a destination Visit Denmark proudly proclaims is filled with culture thanks to spots like the ARoS Aarhus Art Museum, natural beauty with the bay, and plenty of ways to unwind with the Harbour Baths , designed by some of the nation's best architects. It's also a spot that, indeed, loves the environment. "You can take a green kayak out for free, as long as you bring back some trash from your trip," Visit Denmark added. 

Joining Aarhus on the Gold Ranked cities list are Zurich; Berlin; Gothenburg, Sweden; Amsterdam; Helsinki; Bristol, United Kingdom; one more Danish city, Copenhagen ; Geneva, Switzerland; and Munich, Germany. But again, these cities are all unranked, so really, they can all be considered the happiest in their own right.

See the complete list of Gold cities in Europe, and more ranked cities, at happy-city-index.com . 

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Why N.Y.C. Hotel Rooms Are So Expensive Right Now

The average hotel room rate in the city is $301 a night, a record. A major reason: One of every five hotels is now a shelter, contributing to a shortage of tourist lodging.

By Luis Ferré-Sadurní

In late 2022, as thousands of migrants began to arrive in New York City, city officials scrambled to find places to house them. They quickly found takers: hotels that were still struggling to recover from the pandemic-driven downturn in tourism.

Dozens of hotels, from once-grand facilities to more modest establishments, closed to tourists and began exclusively sheltering migrants, striking multimillion-dollar deals with the city. The humanitarian crisis became the hotel industry’s unexpected lifeline in New York; the hotels became a safe haven for tens of thousands of asylum seekers.

Two years in, as the city’s peak tourism season is about to begin, the migrant crisis has helped dramatically shift the hotel landscape in New York. The conversion of hotels to shelters has sharply decreased the supply of rooms just as tourist demand has risen, nearly to prepandemic levels, and is projected to match a record high.

The migrant shelters — along with other factors that include inflation, the loss of Airbnb short-term rentals and an expected decline in new hotel construction — have propelled the nightly cost of an average room to record levels.

The average daily rate for a hotel stay in New York City increased to $301.61 in 2023, up 8.5 percent from $277.92 in 2022, according to CoStar, a leading provider of commercial real estate data and analysis. During the first three months of 2024, when prices traditionally dip, the average stay was still 6.7 percent higher than during the same time period last year: $230.79 a night, up from $216.38 in 2023.

About 135 of the city’s roughly 680 hotels entered the shelter program, with many congregated in Midtown Manhattan, Long Island City in Queens and near Kennedy International Airport — all traditional magnets for tourists. Participating hotels are paid up to $185 a night per room, according to the city. Not a single one has converted back into a traditional hotel.

The Midtown hotels include the Row NYC Hotel, a four-star hotel in the middle of the theater district, and the century-old Roosevelt Hotel near Grand Central.

The use of city hotels for migrants represents a loss of 16,532 hotel rooms , leaving 121,677 hotel rooms for travelers, according to data compiled by CoStar, a leading provider of commercial real estate data and analysis.

That’s 2,812 fewer hotel rooms than existed in the period just before the pandemic — a shortage that is being acutely felt.

“During peak periods, try getting a hotel on a Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday night in midtown Manhattan, and, if you can, you could end up paying dearly,” said Daniel H. Lesser, a co-founder of LW Hospitality Advisors. “It’s all supply-and-demand related, and the migrant rooms have reduced the amount of supply.”

Hotels that have been converted into shelters

Island City

Source: CoStar

About 65,000 migrants are being sheltered in hotels, tent dormitories and other shelters, in large part because of the city’s legal obligation to provide a bed to anyone who needs one. The city projects it will spend $10 billion over three fiscal years on the migrant crisis.

Beginning in late 2022, the city entered into a contract of up to $980 million with a hotel trade group to pay hotels that decide to shelter migrants under its “Sanctuary Hotel Program.” City officials said the hotels receive between $139 and $185 a night per room, whether or not the room is occupied, guaranteeing them a fixed stream of income. (Those rates do not include money the city is spending on food and other services for migrants; there have also been reports of hotels being paid more than $185 a night.)

Many of the hotels-turned-shelters, some of which were deep in debt, facing foreclosure or had received poor reviews from guests , catered to budget and middle-class travelers. While many were independent hotels, about half of them carried brand names: Courtyard, Holiday Inn Express, SpringHill Suites, Super 8.

Since migrants are mostly taking up the city’s more affordable hotel rooms, mid-market tourists are most likely to see the steepest increase in prices, according to Sean Hennessey, a hotel industry adviser and clinical associate professor at New York University.

“I really believe it’s enabled two-, two-and-a-half-star hotels to be a little more emboldened, to take advantage of the situation and charge prices that perhaps they wouldn’t otherwise be able to,” he said.

Other factors, including some driven by policies that Mayor Eric Adams and his predecessor, Bill de Blasio, supported, have also contributed to higher room rates.

In September, city officials began to enforce a new law meant to curb the proliferation of short-term rentals, such as those listed on Airbnb, which used to account for over 10 percent of all tourist accommodations in the city. The crackdown obliterated most short-term Airbnb listings — a phenomenon that some observers said might have had an even larger impact on hotel rates than the migrant crisis.

The number of Airbnb listings in New York City for short stays — under 30 days — plummeted by 83 percent to just 3,705 apartments in March 2024, down from 22,247 listings in August 2023, the month before the law went into effect, according to AirDNA, an unaffiliated company that collects data from short-term rental listings. Most of the remaining Airbnb listings in the city, about 90 percent, are only available for stays of over 30 days.

The law, Local Law 18, was aggressively backed by the hotel industry and the hotel workers union , both supporters of Mayor Adams. Not surprisingly, analysts say, the demise of short-term rentals has driven up demand for hotel rooms and has emboldened some hoteliers to increase prices.

“It was expected,” said Jamie Lane, the chief economist at AirDNA. “That is why the hotel lobby was pushing for this law to happen, so they could have higher rates and increase profitability of their properties.” (Supporters of the law argued short-term rentals were exacerbating the city’s housing shortage.)

New construction may not ease the strain. While there are more than 8,000 hotel rooms in the pipeline, significantly fewer are expected in the long run, according to analysts and developers. That is because of new zoning rules and special permits , also backed by the influential hotel workers union , that have restricted hotel development , making it more expensive to build and operate hotels.

In a statement, a spokeswoman for Mr. Adams, a Democrat, attributed the rise in hotel rates to the increase in tourism — about 62.2 million people visited the city last year , just below the record 66.6 million in 2019 — rather than the mayor’s policies.

“The return of tourists to New York City is reflected at hotels as well, where demand is up,” the statement said. “New York City is safer, cleaner and, as the numbers show, continues to be one of the most popular destinations in the United States.”

The occupancy rate for hotel rooms last year was 81.7 percent, significantly higher than the 46.7 percent low of 2020, but still not as high as 2019, when 86.2 percent of hotel rooms were occupied, according to the Hotel Association of New York City, a trade group.

The hotels being used as shelters are scattered across the five boroughs, from a 76-room Sleep Inn in the Bronx to the Staten Island Inn, which has 93 rooms. City officials noted that 32 of the hotels are housing both migrants and about 6,000 homeless New Yorkers.

There are notable clusters. More than two dozen hotels are in the vicinity of the Jamaica neighborhood of Queens, and Kennedy International Airport. Another 19 hotels are in and around Long Island City, the rapidly growing neighborhood on the Queens waterfront.

A large concentration — 22 hotels — is in the tourist-centric Midtown Manhattan area: in Times Square, near Grand Central Terminal, by the Empire State Building or in the theater district.

Indeed, the four largest hotels housing migrants — with more than 3,500 rooms combined — are in the heart of Midtown. Those large hotels were mostly older buildings becoming obsolete or in the financial doldrums. The migrant crisis seemed to reverse, or temporarily salvage, their fortunes.

In October 2022, the Row NYC Hotel in Times Square, which opened as the Hotel Lincoln in 1928 but was in financial straits during the pandemic — became the first and the largest hotel converted into a shelter. It struck an initial $40 million deal with the city to house thousands of migrants in its 1,331 rooms at $190 a night. (Rooms reportedly ranged from $300 to $500 the month before it opened as a shelter).

The Roosevelt on East 45th Street, named after Theodore Roosevelt, also emerged as a symbol of the humanitarian crisis . The hotel, which is owned by Pakistan’s national airline, had closed in 2020 during the pandemic, but reopened in May 2023 after signing a contract with the city. Its once-grand lobby is now the main processing center for migrants. Thousands of migrants live upstairs in its 1,025 rooms.

The hotels housing migrants are required to provide trash pickup on a daily basis, housekeeping every other day and fresh towels and linens at least once a week, according to several hotel contracts reviewed by The Times.

Under its contract with the Hotel Association of New York City, which runs until Aug. 31 and is likely to be renewed, the city can spend up to $980 million, but that does not mean that it will, according to city officials and industry leaders. The financial commitment could change depending on migration patterns and the duration of the crisis.

“If the migrant situation gets better, we’ve made clear to hotels that are enrolling in the program that, you know, you could potentially be out of the contract with a month’s notice,” said Vijay Dandapani, the president and chief executive officer of the hotel association.

Mr. Dandapani stressed that his association was not profiting from the city contract, but rather playing the role of negotiator between the city and hotels. He declined to say, however, how much the city had paid hotels so far.

Any hotels that decide to reopen their doors to tourists will have to undertake expensive renovations to repair the wear and tear from operating as shelters. And some hotels have already indicated they will permanently shut down after their shelter contracts run out.

“Some of them will not come back into the hotel industry,” Mr. Dandapani said. “Period.”

Luis Ferré-Sadurní covers immigration, focused on the influx of migrants arriving in the New York region. More about Luis Ferré-Sadurní

Our Coverage of the Adams Administration

A Key Commission :   Mayor Eric Adams named 13 people to a prominent city commission that could remake city government . Most are loyalists or have ties to his inner circle.

Adams vs. Adams :   A power struggle between Adams and the City Council speaker, Adrienne Adams, is turning ugly during a time of acute vulnerability for the mayor .

Corruption Investigation :   An aide to Adams who served as his longtime liaison to the Turkish community is cooperating with the federal investigation  into the mayor and his 2021 campaign.

Democrats Take Aim :   Since Adams took office, many of his fellow Democrats have kept their criticism of him muted or private. That period of harmony is over .

Free Preschool :   The mayor promised free prekindergarten for 3-year-olds. But when the Education Department released offers, hundreds of New York City families were left without a place after all .

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Before purchasing a Linz-Card, please check the partners directly using the links below to find out whether you can take advantage of the desired services.

Immerse yourself in the multifaceted city bursting with joie de vivre Linz-Card - only one ticket for the entire city!

Linz will delight you with its urban lifestyle and exciting cultural scene, it will make you curious to discover new things and will open up new perspectives. Discover the diverse Danube city with the Linz-Card.

In addition to numerous discounts, Linz-Card holders also have free admission to Linz museums, free travel on Linz AG lines and can use a 10-euro Danube-Culture-Bonus.

For the perfect city experience you can choose from three tickets: the 1-day ticket for a short stay in Linz, the 2-day ticket with included ticket for the Pöstlingbergbahn (up and downhill ride) or the 3-day ticket, which includes a €5 gastronomy voucher which can be redeemed in selected restaurants in addition to the Pöstlingbergbahn ticket.

This City-Ticket is available online, at the Tourist Information on the Main Square and in selected Linz museums and Linz hotels.

Buy a Linz-Card

Prices Linz-Card

• Adult €16 Adult reduced €15 Linz-card-kids €9
• Adult €27 Adult reduced €25 Linz-card-kids €15
• Adult €35 Adult reduced €33 Linz-card-kids €19

Valid from the date of issue on one, two or three consecutive calendar days. The Linz-Card-Kids (6 to 14,99 years) can only be used in conjunction with an adult card. Not available for groups. We are unable to off er a reimbursement in the event of the temporary closure of a partner business.

Entitled to purchase at a reduced price are: Pupils and students younger than 26 years, trainees, civil and military servants, Handicapped people with an assistant (two reduced cards), ÖAMTC/ADAC and ARBÖ members (two reduced cards per Linz-Card) and holders of the Pyhrn-Priel Card. The Linz-Card is only valid in combination with photo identification and, if applicable, proof of discount.

Your benefits at a glance

One card - many museums.

With the Linz-Card admission to the museums of Linz is free of charge and entitles the holder to visit the museums more than once. Please note the opening hours, these as well as the current exhibitions can be found on the websites of the museums.

• Ars Electronica Center €0 instead of €12 read more
• Nordico City Museum €0 instead of €8 read more
• Lentos Art Museum €0 instead of €11 read more
• Francisco Carolinum Linz €0 instead of €6,50 read more
• OK Linz €0 instead of €8 read more
• Castle Museum €0 instead of €6,50 read more
• voestalpine Stahlwelt (excl. tour of the plant) €0 instead of €10 The voestalpine Stahlwelt is closed from July 2024 due to renovation. 50% discount on "Expedition voestalpine" incl. factory tour read more

One card - many connections

The Linz-Card includes free use of the buses and trams of the Linz AG Linien in the core zone of Linz (except the Pöstlinberg tram, it is only included in the 2-day- and 3-day-Linz-Card).

• Linz AG Linien €0 instead of max. €16,80 read more

One card - lots of culture on the Danube

The Linz-Card opens up a wide range of cultural activities. The Danube-Culture-Bonus offers a reduction of €10 (€5 with the Linz-Card-Kids). This bonus can be redeemed for events at the following theatres and concert halls**, as well as for harbour cruises cruises by the Wurm & Noé shipping company:

Brucknerhaus

Kinderkulturzentrum Kuddelmuddel

Schauspielhaus, Kammerspiele

Musiktheater im Volksgarten

Harbour Tour - MS Linzerin

One card - many discounts

Go on an adventure tour in and around Linz with the Linz-Card and benefit from numerous discounts.

• Linz city walk (held in German) €12 instead of €15 Children in the family group up to 14,99 years free of charge read more
• Evening walk (held in German) Adult €13 instead of €16 Child up to 14,99 years free of charge read more
• Guided tour with the Linz Nightwatchman (held in German) Adult €13 instead of €15 Child €11 instead of €13 read more
• Zoo Linz Adult €9 instead of €14 Child €4,50 instead of €5,50 read more
• Linz City Express tour (25 minutes) Adult 8 € instead of 10 € Child 4 € instead of 5 € read more
• Grottenbahn at Pöstlingberg Adult 5,10 € instad of 6,40 € Child 3 € instead of 3,80 € read more
• Botanical Garden Adult €3,00 instead of €4,10 Child €1,10 instead of €3,00 read more
• Casino Linz Welcome tokens €23 instead of €30 (Admission only from the age of 18) read more
• Das Mitbrings'l Rickshaw rides -10 % discount E-bike rental -10 % discount (Reservation required) read more
• Masters of Escape 10 % discount from the standard price read more
• Rotax Max Dome Sport mode with the E-Kart 10 % discount from the standard price read more
• Jump dome Linz 10 % discount from the standard price read more
• Virtual Escape Room Linz 15% discount read more
• Tour at the Stift St. Florian* €12,00 instead of €13 read more
• Listen to the Bruckner Organ* €7,50 instead of €8,00 read more
• Museum of Weaving Haslach* Entry 1+1 for free read more
• Mechanical Sound Factory Haslach* Entry 1+1 for free read more
• Welios Science Center* 20 % discount from the standard price read more
• Kirchschlag high ropes center 15% discount read more
• pyhrnPriel-erlebnisagentur GmbH* 3D-archery on the adventure mountain Wurbauerkogel High ropes course Gleinkersee 20 % discount on daily services read more
• Paneum €7,50 instead of €10 read more
• Body Worlds & The Cycle of Life February 10 to June 9 Adults Mon-Fri €17 instead of €19) Sat-Sun and public holidays €19 instead of €21 Families Mon-Fri €45 instead of €49 Sat, Sun and public holidays €51 instead of € 55 read more
• Sumerauerhof St. Florian* Adult €5 instead of €6 read more
• Bruckner exhibition Stift St. Florian* May 4 to October 27 Adult €6 instead of €8 read more
• Anton-Bruckner-Museum Ansfelden* Birthplace of Anton Bruckner Adult €3 instead of €4 read more
• City Museum Steyr* Admisson from April 13 Adult €5 instead of €7 Child €3 instead of €5 read more

Additional services of the 2-day card

The 2-day Linz-Card includes a ride up and down the Pöstlingberg tram to Linz's local mountain.

• Pöstlingberg tram €0 instead of €8,00 read more

Additional services of the 3-day card

In addition to a ride up and down the mountain on the Pöstlingberg tram, the 3-day Linz-Card also includes the gastronomy voucher. After presenting the Linz-Card at the Tourist Information on Hauptplatz 1, the voucher will be handed out and can be redeemed at one of around 40 restaurants, cafés and bars in Linz.

• Pöstlingberg tram €0 instead of €8 read more
• Vouchers for restaurants Adult: €5 voucher Child: €2,50 voucher read more

Anton Bruckner Bonus

For this special year, new Bruckner partners have been recruited for the Linz Card in cooperation with the Upper Austrian Department of Culture. All partner businesses marked with the Bruckner logo here and in the information brochure alive the famous composer.

With the Bruckner-Bonus of the Linz-Card at the following exhibitions:

· Playing Anton and Being Anton from 1 February to 31 December, Ars Electronica Center Linz

· UN#HEARD-OF, this Bruckner! from 13 April, Stadtmuseum Steyr

· How it all began. Bruckner’s visions from 4 May to 27 October, St. Florian’s Priory

· The life and work of Anton Bruckner from 4 May to 27 October, Anton Bruckner’s birthplace Ansfelden

· It’s me, Toni. The search for the identity of Anton Bruckner from 13 September, Nordico Stadtmuseum Linz

· Come and sing along! from 4 October, Lentos Kunstmuseum Linz

Bruckner events throughout Upper Austria: www.anton-bruckner-2024.at

Celebrate Anton Bruckner’s birthday

A festival for the whole of Upper Austria: On the occasion of Anton Bruckner’s 200th birthday, Linz and the whole of Upper Austria are celebrating Anton Bruckner with the OÖ KulturEXPO. In the forest, at concerts, theatres or in churches, on swings, in town squares, in streets carrying Bruckner’s name or virtual areas, the whole state – especially the 35 Bruckner locations – will become a contemporary stage for people big and small, music enthusiasts, travellers, strollers, Bruckner nerds, those thirsty for knowledge or who love the unexpected.

Anton Bruckner is a true personality, familiar and yet unknown, multifaceted with some elements of surprise: The composer and Linz, his place of activity, therefore have a great deal in common. Through this city and its surroundings with Ansfelden and St. Florian, the musician and composer is revealed in all his facets.

All events in the Linz region

*valid within 7 days

**The ticket reservation / ticketing is only possible directly from the theater/concert hall and only at its own events. The cards will be deposited at the box office. Redeeming the Donau-Kultur-Bonus by showing / scanning the Linz-Card at the cash desk (card number). Can not be added to tickets in travel packages. Cannot be used for tickets that have already been bought and paid for, and cannot be redeemed in cash.

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Telephone: +43 732 7070 2009 Fax: +43 732 54 2009 E-Mail: [email protected] Web: www.linztourismus.at

Chairperson of the supervisory committee:     Dieter Recknagl Tourism Director:  Mag. (FH) Marie-Louise Schnurpfeil Tourism matters City of Linz:  City Councillor Doris Lang-Mayerhofer Members of the supervisory committee:  Anton Gallistl, Michael Mayrhofer, Petra Riffert, Lisa Sigl, Mag. Thomas Ziegler, City Councillor Doris Lang-Mayerhofer (on behalf of the Mayor), Mag. Andreas Winkelhofer (on behalof of the National Tourist Office)

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Protecting your personal data is particularly important to us. For this reason, we process your data exclusively on the basis of legal regulations (pursuant to the GDPR and the Telecommunications Act of 2003). We process your personal data only for as long as and to the extent that this is necessary to fulfil our contractual obligations or legal (retention) obligations or on the basis of our legitimate interests. Any storage beyond this will only take place with your consent. In this Data Privacy Policy, we provide you with details on the most important aspects of data processing within the scope of the service that we offer to you.

This is how you can reach us (responsible person in the meaning of the GDPR): Tourismusverband Linz, Adalbert-Stifter-Platz 2, 4020 Linz Data protection coordinator: Mag. Gisela Gruber, [email protected]

1. Tourist information

When you as a potential guest contact Tourist Information Linz via a form on our website, via e-mail or phone, we store the data you provide for two years on the basis of our legal obligations in order to respond to your enquiry, in case of follow-up questions and for the purpose of keeping statistics. We handle these data with great care and do not pass them on without your consent.

You also have the option of keeping your data on file with us for various services for an indefinite period; we will store your data until you withdraw your consent. You can consent to us using your data for direct mailing purposes (sending information on tourist attractions in Linz via post and e-mail). Your data will only be passed on for the purpose of preparing post for dispatch. This consent can be withdrawn at any time by contacting us at [email protected] .

Submitting enquiry to Tourist Information regarding Linz Weekend:

If you submit an enquiry regarding the Linz Weekend, the tourist board acts only as an intermediary between you and the selected hotel. The data you provide in the course of enquiries via the web form, e-mail or phone are therefore passed on to the hotel you have selected. If you book a Linz Weekend, we store your details based on the legal basis, legitimate interest for a period of two years until we have produced our statistics and for handling follow-up enquiries.

Furthermore, you have the option of keeping your data on file with us for various services for an indefinite period as well; we will store your date until you withdraw your consent. You can consent to us using your data for direct mailing purposes (sending information on tourist attractions in Linz via post and e-mail). Your data will only be passed on for the purpose of preparing post for dispatch. This consent can be withdrawn at any time by contacting us at [email protected] .

Prospectus requests/brochure orders

In order to send you the prospectuses you have requested from our selection, we collect your data via the web form, e-mail or phone and store these data until your request has been dealt with, for follow-up questions and to produce our statistics for a period of two years at most on the basis of the legal basis: legitimate interest.

You can also consent to give us access to your data until further notice. We will then use these for direct marketing campaigns (e-mail and post) so we can keep you updated on news from Linz. Your data will only be passed on for the purpose of preparing post for dispatch.

Newsletter registration

If you sign up for one of our newsletters via our web form, an email is sent to your address, and you must confirm your registration in this e-mail. You can also sign up for one of our newsletters by using response cards we send with certain mailings. Your data will be stored until further notice.

For the purpose of sending the newsletter safely and efficiently, we are sometimes supported by external service providers (newsletter tool). If we use external service providers to process your personal data, their processing is based on an order processing contract concluded with us. The data will not be passed on to third parties in any other way.

You can also unsubscribe at any time by using the option in the newsletters. The data storage is based on the legal basis of your consent.

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If you subscribe to the Linz changes magazine via the web form, e-mail or phone, we store the data that are required to send you the magazine on the legal basis of your consent. Your data will only be passed on for the purpose of preparing post for dispatch. You can cancel the subscription at any time. If you do not sign up for further subscriptions, enquiries, etc., your data will be subsequently deleted.

Individuals in politics, the press and committees associated with the Linz Tourist Board receive the Linz changes magazine on the basis of legitimate interest as an information medium of the Linz Tourist Board.

Competitions

The data you have provided (name, date of birth, e-mail address, phone number, address) are used by the Linz Tourist Board exclusively to carry out the competition and are not passed on. If you are declared the winner, we contact you via e-mail or phone and store your data until the prize has been awarded.

Linz-Kulturcard-365 (Linz Culture Card 365)

You can obtain the Linz Culture Card 365 by submitting a form  or from our webshop and use it to get free admission to participating museums and exclusive events. On presentation of the card, you will also be eligible for discounts from incentive partners.

We need to process the personal data entered by you in the application form (name, postal address, e-mail address and date of birth) to manage the service offering and issue the Linz Culture Card 365. Additionally, the necessary billing and bank details will be processed when you purchase the Linz Culture Card 365 via our points of sale, the tourist information office, our webshop or our partner sales outlets. When you use your Linz Culture Card 365, your card number and the redeeming venue will be recorded. This information is necessary to prevent abuse of the card and to ensure that you benefit from the service offering.

To provide you with up-to-date information about the wide range of advantages provided by the Linz Culture Card 365, we will send you a monthly e-mail to notify you about current offers (e.g. invitations to events, current activities, special deals and cultural offerings). We will also process your contact details (name, postal address) in order to send you regular information by post. If you do not wish to receive messages by e-mail or post and therefore want to forego some of the included benefits, you can let us know at any time by sending an e-mail to [email protected] .

The processing operations described serve to fulfil our obligations arising from the contractual relationship (Art. 6(1) sentence 1(b) GDPR) and/or on the basis of our legitimate interest (Art. 6(1) sentence 1(f) GDPR) in providing our customers with as personal a service as possible and in supplying you with interesting cultural information.

We also process your data as provided in connection with the purchase of the Linz Culture Card 365 (subject to the scope of your consent) on the basis of your specific consent (Art. 6(1) sentence 1(a) GDPR) in order to send you information about current offers by e-mail or post (also beyond the validity period of your Linz Culture Card 365). You can withdraw your consent at any time by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Upon receipt of your withdrawal request, we will remove you from the relevant mailing list immediately.

If you purchase the Culture Card from a point of sale other than the Tourist Information Linz, or if you buy it in the online shop, our distribution partners will gather your data on our behalf and transmit them to us. The data gathering body is contractually obligated to handle your data carefully and to use them only for the purpose of processing the sale of the Linz Culture Card 365. To ensure that the process runs smoothly, and so that we can implement our service professionally and efficiently, we are also supported to some extent by external service providers (e.g. IT service providers, print shops, etc.).

We process your personal data only for as long as and to the extent that this is necessary to fulfil our contractual or legal obligations (to store the data) and/or on the basis of our legitimate interests.

We need to process your personal data to manage the service offering and issue the Linz Card. For this purpose, your name will be registered and processed in order to be printed on the ticket when you purchase a Linz Card, as the Linz Card is valid only in combination with a photo ID. In addition, the necessary billing and bank details will be processed when you purchase the Linz Card in our sales outlet or via our webshop. When you use your Linz Card, your card number and the redeeming venue will be recorded. This information is necessary to prevent abuse of the card and to ensure that you benefit from the service offering.

We only ever process your personal data for as long as and to the extent that this is required to fulfil our contractual or legal obligations (to store the data) and/or on the basis of our legitimate interests.

You can also grant us your consent to use your data for the purpose of direct mailing (mailing of information about the tourism offering in Linz by post and via digital channels). Your data will be transferred only for the purpose of dispatching this information. This consent can be revoked at any time by sending an e-mail to [email protected]. Upon receipt of your withdrawal request, we will remove you from the corresponding mailing list immediately.

If you purchase the Linz Card from a point of sale other than the Tourist Information Linz, or if you buy it in the online shop, our distribution partners will gather your data on our behalf and transmit them to us. The data gathering body is contractually obligated to handle your data carefully and to use them only for the purpose of processing the sale of the Linz Card.

To ensure that the process runs smoothly, and so that we can implement our service professionally and efficiently, we are also supported to some extent by external service providers (e.g. IT service providers, print shops, etc.). If we involve external service providers in the processing of your personal data, their processing will be based on a contractual data processing agreement concluded with us. This ensures that the service provider will use the data exclusively for the agreed purpose.

Linz Card/Linz Culture Card 365 Webshop

The Linz Card/Linz Culture Card 365 Webshop uses Google Analytics, a web analysis service provided by Google Inc. (“Google”). Google Analytics uses so-called “ cookies ”. These are text files that are stored on your computer and enable your use of the website to be analysed. The information generated by the cookies about your use of this website will be transmitted to and saved on a Google server in the US.

The IP address transmitted from your browser in connection with Google Analytics will not be combined with other data collected by Google. We have also added “anonymizeIP” to the Google Analytics code on this website. This guarantees that your IP address is masked so that all data will be collected anonymously. Only in exceptional cases will the full IP address be transmitted to a Google server in the US and truncated there.

Google will use the information collected to analyse your use of the website, compile reports on website activity for the website operators and perform additional services relating to the use of the website and the Internet. 

In addition, you can prevent the data that is generated by the cookie and relates to your use of the website (including your IP address) from being collected, sent to Google and processed by Google by downloading and installing a browser add-on . As an alternative to the browser add-on, especially in the case of browsers on mobile devices, you can also prevent Google Analytics from collecting your data by clicking on this link . An opt-out cookie will be set that will prevent your data from being collected on future visits to this website. The opt-out cookie works exclusively in this browser and only for our website, and it will be stored on your device. If you delete the cookies from the browser, you will have to reset the opt-out cookie.

You can find more information about data privacy in connection with Google Analytics in the Google Analytics Help section.

Häppchen-Pass

When you purchase the Häppchen-Pass from one of our sales partners / from us, your name will be collected and recorded on the Häppchen-Pass. This - in addition to a stamp from the issuing office - serves to prevent misuse, as the Häppchen-Pass is non-transferable. Your name will only be collected in the course of the sales process and noted on the Häppchen-Pass, but will not be stored or otherwise processed by us beyond that. When you visit our canapé partners, the establishment confirms the consumption in the passport with the date and the retailer's stamp. Your data will not be stored or processed beyond this.

2. Sales promotion/groups

We receive enquiries relating to groups (school groups, tour operators/travel agencies, clubs, etc.) either by e-mail or by phone. We store the data provided during this process, so we can respond to your enquiry, and these data are only passed on to our tourism service providers (hotels, museums, etc.) if you request rooms and make bookings/reservations. We only act as an intermediary in this process and can, if requested, make reservations under your name. However, the contractual relationship is always between you and the respective tourism service providers.

If you as a tour operator/travel agency or school are in regular contact with us, we will store your contact details until further notice on the basis of our legitimate interest, and you will receive news from the Linz Tourism Board via e-mail and post. If you no longer wish to receive this information, we ask that you send an informal response to [email protected] or [email protected] . You can unsubscribe from newsletter mailings directly in any newsletter. This cancellation will not affect any of your other data which we have on file.

Individuals and clubs who contact us regarding group tours will only continue to receive information at their express request. These persons can consent to storage until further notice and order brochures or sign up for our newsletters. The provided data will otherwise be deleted after the enquiry has been dealt with and our statistics have been produced (after a period of two years). This will not affect any newsletter registrations which have been completed. You can unsubscribe from the newsletter at any time by clicking the link in the respective e-mail.

The Linz Tourist Board cooperates with freelance employees who provide services to groups. If you are in contact with one of our colleagues regarding this, we store your data after the initial conversation and until further notice if you consent to this. The provided contact details are only passed on if a booking is made with tourism service providers (museums, hotels, etc.). We handle your data with the utmost care, and you can withdraw your consent at any time (e-mailto: [email protected] ).

3. Enquiries relating to meetings and conferences

If you make use of our meetings and conferences service and contact us via the web form, e-mail or phone, we will store the data you provide to us in order to respond to your enquiry and will pass it on to service providers if applicable.

We will store your data for a period of three years for follow-up enquiries and in order to produce reports. You can also consent to the indefinite storage of your data until further notice, and we will then send you information and news relating to meeting and celebrating in Linz as well as invitations to site inspection tours via post or email. You can withdraw this consent at any time by contacting us at [email protected] .

The key data from your event and your company’s name will be passed on to the ACB (Austrian Convention Bureau) for the Meeting Industry Report Austria (MIRA), in which Linz also participates.

4. Business contacts, partners, service providers, members and media representatives

The Linz Tourist Board is legally obliged to actively inform its partners of its activities within the scope of the tourist board’s duties (pursuant to the Tourism Law 2018, Section 12).

If you are among our business and press contacts, a member of the tourist board based on the Tourism Law, a partner in the (Upper) Austrian tourism industry or a tourism service provider affiliated with us, we store your data on the legal basis of legitimate interest. You will receive mailings from us via post or e-mail with news from the tourist board and/or regarding tourist attractions. You can of course cancel these mailings at any time by sending an e-mail to [email protected] .

5. Privacy policy for www.linztourimus.at website

Evaluating access with google analytics.

This website uses Google Analytics, a web analysis service provided by Google Inc. (‘Google’). Google Analytics uses so-called ‘cookies’. These are text files which are stored on your computer and enable an analysis of your use of the website. The information generated by the cookies regarding your use of this website is transferred to a Google server in the US and stored there.

Google does not combine the IP address transmitted by your browser within the context of Google Analytics with other data.  We have also extended Google Analytics to include the ‘anonymizeIP’ code on this website. This guarantees that your IP address is masked so that all data are collected anonymously. The full IP address is transmitted to a Google server in the US and abbreviated there in exceptional cases only.

Google will use the collected information to evaluate your use of the website, compile reports on website activities for the website operators and provide other services associated with the use of the website and the Internet.

You can also prevent the data generated by the cookie and relating to your use of the website (including your IP address) from being collected and processed by Google by downloading and installing a browser plugin. As an alternative to the browser add-on, you can also prevent Google Analytics from collecting the data by clicking this link, particularly in the case of browsers on mobile devices. An opt-out cookie is set and prevents your data from being collected when you visit this website in future. The opt-out cookie works only in this browser and only for our website, and it is stored on your device. If you delete the cookies in this browser, you will need to set the opt-out cookies again.

Please see the Google Analytics help section for further information on data protection in the context of Google Analytics.

During the use of the website, various cookies are stored on your device to enhance the user-friendliness of the website. The necessary cookies and their storage periods are listed below.

• Session cookie (PHPSESSID) Cookie set automatically by the web server. Storage period: browser session
• Cookies notice Set after the cookies notice is confirmed so this message is not displayed again. Storage period: indefinitely
• Info notice Set after the info notice is closed so this message is not displayed again. Storage period: lndefinitely
• Google Analytics is also used and sets cookies as well https://developers.google.com/analytics/devguides/collection/analyticsjs/cookie-usage

Facebook-Pixel

We use the ‘pixel’ provided by Facebook Inc., 1601 S. California Ave, Palo Alto, CA 94304, USA (‘Facebook’) on our website. We can use the pixel to track users’ activities after they have seen or clicked a Facebook advert. This enables us to gauge the effectiveness of our Facebook adverts for statistical and market research purposes. The data collected in this way are anonymous for us; that is, we do not see the personal data relating to individual users. However, these data are stored and processed by Facebook, and we provide you with information regarding this on the basis of the knowledge available to us. Facebook can link these data with your Facebook account and use them for its own advertising purposes in accordance with Facebook’s Data Policy, www.facebook.com/about/privacy . You can allow Facebook and its partners to place adverts on and outside of Facebook. A cookie can also be stored on your computer for these purposes.

6. Visit-Linz-App

The Visit Linz app uses Google Analytics, a web analysis service provided by Google Inc. (“Google”). The use of the Visit Linz app is analysed by means of this service. The information generated by the cookies regarding your use of this app will be transmitted to a Google server in the US, where it will be stored.

Google does not combine the IP address that is transmitted by your browser in connection with Google Analytics with any other data. We have also extended the code to include “anonymizeIP”. This guarantees that your IP address is masked so that all data will be collected anonymously. Only in exceptional cases will the full IP address be transmitted to a Google server in the US and truncated there.

Google will use the information collected to analyse your use of the app, compile reports on website activity for the website operators and perform additional services relating to the use of the website and the Internet.

You can also prevent the data that is generated by the cookie and relates to your use of the website (including your IP address) from being collected and processed by Google by activating the corresponding function in the settings.

When you use the Visit Linz app, your location and the amount of time you spend at pre-defined places in Linz will be stored with your consent. The data are anonymised and cannot be traced to individuals. You can withdraw your consent to the storage of this data at any time in the app settings.

A user must be created in order to collect points in the “Play” area of the Visit Linz app. A user name and an e-mail address must be stored so that the user remains uniquely identifiable. The functions performed, points collected and offers redeemed will be stored for each user. None of the information will be used for any other purposes or transmitted to third parties. When an account is deleted, the related stored information will be deleted at the same time.

This application runs on  Google Play Services for AR  (ARCore), which is provided by Google LLC and governed by the  Google Privacy Policy

It is in our interest to bring people and companies together, to share knowledge and to inspire offers. Therefore, our activities and events (for example site inspection tours, tourism conference, press trips, tours, Linz Academy etc.) are documented with photo and video and subsequently this material is used for promoting the events: online on websites , in press releases and offline in print media and our publications.

8.  Feratel DESKLINE online bookings and booking enquiries

For the processing of online bookings and enquiries, we process your personal data in order to provide you with the booked services with the help of our service provider feratel Media Technologies AG (Maria-Theresien-Straße 8, A-6020 Innsbruck). For this purpose, we store and process inventory data, communication data, contract data, payment data of our customers, interested parties and other business partners. The processing is carried out for the purpose of providing contractual services or for the fulfilment of pre-contractual services on the basis of the legal grounds of Art. 6 (1) lit. b DSGVO (booking transactions, answering quotation requests and sending brochures) and Art. 6 (1) lit. c DSGVO (legally required retention periods for bookings or invoices). In addition, data processing is based on our legitimate interest pursuant to Art. 6 (1) lit. f DSGVO for the use of corresponding booking software. For a booking, the data fields marked as required are necessary for the justification and fulfilment of the contract. The data is only passed on to third parties (hotel partners or other tourism service providers) to the extent necessary for the processing of a booking. We have concluded a corresponding agreement with the company feratel in accordance with Art. 28 DSGVO as an order processor, which ensures that your data is processed exclusively within the scope of our order. You can find more information about feratel's data protection at:  https://www.feratel.com/datenschutz.html .

Information about stored data

In principle, you are entitled to get information about your processed data as well as to prompt its correction, deletion, restriction, transferability, revocation and objection. You can also contact our data protection officer to exercise these rights: rosa elefant OG Schlachthausgasse 52/8 1030 Wien [email protected] +43 676 922 76 00 In order to protect your data, proof of your identity will be requested in the event of any doubt. In addition, the data protection authority can be reached at the following contact details: Austrian data protection authority Phone: +43 1 52 152-0 E-mail: [email protected]

Website Cookies

• Cookie & Services Notice (privacy-manager-settings) Set after the cookies notice is confirmed so this message is not displayed again. Storage period: indefinitely
• Info Box (Info-notice) Set after the info notice is closed so this message is not displayed again. Storage period: lndefinitely

Google Maps

Google analytics and google tagmanager.

https://developers.google.com/analytics/devguides/collection/analyticsjs/cookie-usage

Tracking-Pixel "Weekend"

We use the ‘pixel’ provided by adform.net. We can use the pixel to track users’ activities after they have seen or clicked a advert.

Matomo Analytics

This site uses Matomo to analyze traffic and help us to improve your user experience.

We process your IP address and cookies are stored on your browser for 13 months. This data is only processed by us and our web hosting platform.

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