General Information
Linz, the third-largest city in Austria, is a dynamic and vibrant destination located along the Danube River. Known for its mix of modern innovation and historic charm, Linz is a hub for art, culture, and technology. It is also recognized as a UNESCO City of Media Arts, thanks to its cutting-edge festivals and creative industries. Whether you’re exploring its medieval Old Town, enjoying contemporary art museums, or taking a relaxing walk along the river, Linz offers a unique and diverse experience.
Location
Linz is located in Upper Austria, along the Danube River, and is:
- 1.5 hours from Vienna (170 km)
- 1 hour from Salzburg (130 km)
- 3.5 hours from Munich, Germany (300 km)
The city is beautifully set against the backdrop of the Pöstlingberg Mountain and offers easy access to both nature and urban attractions.
How to Get There
- By Air:
- Linz Airport (LNZ) is located just 12 km from the city center, with flights from major European destinations.
- Alternatively, Vienna International Airport (VIE) is around 1.5 hours away.
- By Train:
- Linz Hauptbahnhof is the city’s central railway station, connecting Linz to Vienna, Salzburg, Munich, and other major cities in Austria and Germany.
- By Bus:
- Several bus lines, including FlixBus, connect Linz to cities across Austria and neighboring countries.
- By Car:
- Linz is easily accessible via the A1 and A7 highways, offering smooth travel from major cities in Austria and Europe.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time to explore.
- Summer (July – August): Ideal for festivals and outdoor activities.
- Autumn (September – October): Pleasant weather and a more peaceful atmosphere.
- Winter (November – February): Great for Christmas markets and cozy city experiences.
Key Events & Festivals:
- Ars Electronica Festival (September): A global festival for art, technology, and society.
- Linz Klangwolke (August): A spectacular multimedia art performance held in the city.
- Linz Christmas Markets (December): One of Austria’s most enchanting Christmas markets, with crafts, food, and festive cheer.
Where to Stay
- Luxury:
- Hotel Schloss Mondsee: A luxury hotel in a historic castle just outside Linz.
- Park Inn by Radisson Linz: A modern and stylish hotel with great city views.
- Mid-range:
- Hotel Wolfgangsee: A family-friendly hotel with a cozy ambiance.
- Hotel Mühlviertlerhof: A centrally located, comfortable hotel near the Old Town.
- Budget:
- JuFa Hotel Linz: A budget-friendly option for travelers, with a friendly atmosphere.
- Linz Hostel: Perfect for backpackers and budget travelers looking for a good place to stay.
Top Attractions
- Ars Electronica Center: A cutting-edge museum and center for digital art and technology.
- Linz Castle (Schloss Linz): A historic castle with panoramic views of the city.
- Pöstlingberg: A hilltop with an old pilgrimage church and an amusement park.
- Lentos Art Museum: A modern art museum with a stunning glass facade.
- Mariendom (New Cathedral): The largest cathedral in Austria, with beautiful architecture.
- Old Town (Altstadt): A picturesque area with baroque buildings, shops, and cafés.
- Botanical Garden Linz: A beautiful and peaceful garden near the city center.
- Hauptplatz (Main Square): The heart of Linz with vibrant shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
- Mural Harbor: A famous open-air street art gallery along the Danube River.
- Linz Museum of the History of Art: A museum dedicated to the cultural history of Linz.
Getting Around
- Public Transport:
- Linz has an efficient tram and bus network, with tickets available for 1, 24, or 72 hours.
- A single tram ticket costs about 2.20 EUR.
- Bike Rentals:
- Linz is a bike-friendly city, with plenty of rental stations available through LinzBike.
- Walking:
- Old Town is best explored on foot.
- Taxis & Ride-Sharing:
- Uber and local taxis are available throughout the city.
Local Cuisine
- Linzertorte: A delicious fruit-filled pastry made with nuts and a unique lattice design.
- Wiener Schnitzel: The iconic Austrian breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet.
- Krautfleckerl: Austrian pasta with cabbage—a hearty comfort food.
- Bauernschmaus: A traditional Austrian dish with sausage, pork, and sauerkraut.
Best Restaurants:
- Gasthof Rothmayr: A charming traditional restaurant serving Austrian dishes.
- Das Einstein: A modern eatery with a creative twist on Austrian classics.
- Stadtbräu Linz: A cozy brewery restaurant with a local feel.
Shopping
- Landstraße: The main shopping street in Linz, lined with boutiques and department stores.
- Passage Linz: A shopping mall with a mix of international brands.
- Linz Christmas Market: Perfect for artisan products, local crafts, and gifts.
- Design Center Linz: A place for unique local designs and souvenirs.
Nightlife
- City Kiosk: A trendy bar and café with craft beers and cocktails.
- The Crossing: A popular club with dance floors and electronic music.
- Posthof Linz: A multi-purpose venue with live concerts, theater, and performances.
- Piano Bar: For a chill night with piano music and cocktails.
Day Trips from Linz
- Mauthausen Concentration Camp Memorial (20 km): A somber visit to a World War II concentration camp.
- Austrian Lake District (Salzkammergut, 70 km): A beautiful region of lakes and mountains.
- Gmunden (90 km): A charming lakeside town known for its ceramics and scenic beauty.
- St. Florian Monastery (15 km): A baroque monastery with an impressive collection of art.
