Discover Linz: Top Attractions and Cultural Highlights
Linz, Austria's third-largest city, is a hub of culture and history, nestled on the banks of the Danube River. Known for its vibrant arts scene, Linz has been home to famous figures like Mozart and Kepler. With its picturesque Austrian setting, Linz is perfect for river excursions and exploring the local countryside.
For a condensed guide to Linz's best offerings, read on for the top things to do in this charming city.
1. The Castle of Linz (Schlossmuseum Linz)
The Linz Castle, dating back to the 9th century, now houses the Schlossmuseum with its extensive art and historical collections. Don't miss the Nordico city museum for a deeper dive into Linz's past.
Address: Schlossberg 1, 4020 Linz, Austria
Official site: www.ooelkg.at/en/location/schlossmuseum-linz.html
2. Explore Ars Electronica Center
This museum showcases the intersection of art and technology, with exhibits on topics like climate change and robotics. The annual Ars Electronica Festival is a highlight.
Address: Ars-Electronica-Straße 1, 4040 Linz, Austria
Official site: https://ars.electronica.art/center/en/
Guided tours in Linz
3. Get Your Art Fix at the OK Center
The OK Center for Contemporary Art Austria and the Landesgalerie Linz are must-visits for art enthusiasts, offering a range of modern and contemporary exhibits.
Address: OK-Platz 1, 4020 Linz, Austria
Official site: www.ok-centrum.at/en/
4. Lentos Art Museum
Lentos Art Museum boasts a vast collection of modern art, including works by Klimt and Schiele. The museum's architecture is a sight to behold, especially at night.
Address: Doktor-Ernst-Koref-Promenade 1, 4020 Linz, Austria
Official site: www.lentos.at/html/en/
5. See St. Martin's Church
St. Martin's Church is Austria's oldest church in its original form, featuring 15th-century frescoes and Roman remnants.
Address: Römerstraße/Ecke Martingasse, 4020 Linz
6. Tour the New Cathedral
The New Cathedral, with its towering spire and grand organ, is a Neo-Gothic marvel. Don't miss the Linz-Window, depicting the city's history.
Address: Herrenstraße 26, 4020 Linz, Austria
7. Take a Tour of St. Florian Augustinian Abbey
St. Florian Abbey, a short drive from Linz, is a Baroque masterpiece with a rich musical heritage, including a choir and the Bruckner organ.
8. Linz Botanical Gardens
With over 10,000 plant species, the Linz Botanical Gardens are a lush retreat. The Zoo Linz nearby offers interactive animal experiences for children.
Address: Roseggerstraße 20-22, 4020 Linz, Austria
9. Take a Drive to Wilhering Abbey
Wilhering Abbey, known for its Rococo church and art gallery, is a cultural gem just a short journey from Linz.
Address: Linzerstraße 4, 4073 Wilhering, Austria
10. Voestalpine Steel World
Voestalpine Steel World offers an interactive look into the steel industry, with tours and exhibits highlighting the manufacturing process.
Address: Voestalpine-Straße 4, 4020 Linz, Austria
Official site: www.voestalpine.com/stahlwelt/en
11. Enjoy a Stroll through the Hauptplatz and Landstrasse
Explore Linz's historic city center along Landstrasse and the Hauptplatz, lined with Baroque buildings and the iconic Trinity Column.
12. Take a Pilgrimage to Pöstlingberg
Reach Pöstlingberg by the historic Pöstlingbergbahn to visit the pilgrimage church and enjoy panoramic views of Linz.
13. Visit the Old Cathedral
The Old Cathedral, adorned with Italian decorations and the Bruckner Organ, is a testament to Linz's religious heritage.
Address: Domgasse 3, 4020 Linz, Austria
14. The Mauthausen Memorial
The Mauthausen Memorial is a sobering reminder of Austria's history, offering insights into the lives of those who suffered under the Nazi regime.
Address: Erinnerungsstraße 1, 4310 Mauthausen, Austria
Official site: www.mauthausen-memorial.org/en
15. Take a Day Trip to the Old Town of Wels
Wels, a short distance from Linz, offers a quaint old town experience with historic towers and squares to explore.
Where to Stay in Linz for Sightseeing
For convenient access to Linz's attractions, consider these hotels:
- Hotel am Domplatz
- Park Inn by Radisson Linz
- Austria Trend Hotel Schillerpark
- Ibis Linz City
