After savoring all the things to do in Klagenfurt, with its charming old town and the serene beauty of Lake Wörthersee, day trips from Klagenfurt become a captivating next chapter in your Austrian adventure. These excursions extend your exploration to the enchanting Carinthian region, where mountains, lakes, and historical sites await.
Venturing beyond Klagenfurt, you’re introduced to a wider array of things to do in Austria, from the majestic peaks of the Alps to the cultural treasures in Salzburg and Vienna. Each journey brings to life the diverse landscapes and rich history that Austria is renowned for.
Choosing where to stay in Klagenfurt is strategic, ensuring you’re well-placed to enjoy both the city’s highlights and the natural splendor of its surroundings. A well-located accommodation provides a comfortable retreat after days spent discovering Carinthia’s wonders and the broader attractions Austria has to offer.
Discover Best Day Trips from Klagenfurt, Austria
1. Lake Wörthersee, Austria
Lake Wörthersee is a popular summer destination known for its warm, turquoise waters and vibrant lakeside atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports, relax on the beaches, or stroll along the promenade in Velden.
Distance: Approximately 20 km
Travel Time: About 15-20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Warm, turquoise waters, vibrant lakeside atmosphere, water sports, promenade in Velden
Best Time to Visit: Summer
Entrance Fees:
- Free (for lake access)
Budget: Approximately €20-€50 (including transportation and food)
Scenic Spots: Velden am Wörthersee, Lake Views, Boat Tours
Travel Tip: Take a boat tour to fully experience the beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
2. Minimundus, Austria
Minimundus, located just on the outskirts of Klagenfurt, is a miniature park displaying over 150 miniature models of famous structures from around the world. It’s a unique and educational experience suitable for all ages.
Distance: Approximately 5 km
Travel Time: About 10 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Miniature park displaying over 150 models of famous structures from around the world
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Adult: €15
- Child: €10
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: Miniature World Landmarks
Travel Tip: Visit in the late afternoon and stay till dusk when the models are beautifully illuminated.
3. Hochosterwitz Castle, Austria
Hochosterwitz Castle, one of Austria’s most impressive medieval castles, is perched atop a 160-meter-high Dolomite rock. The castle’s 14 gates, museum, and panoramic views make it a memorable visit.
Distance: Approximately 25 km
Travel Time: About 25 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Impressive medieval castle, 14 gates, museum, panoramic views
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Castle Entrance: €15
- Museum: Included in the entrance fee
Budget: Approximately €25-€50 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: Castle Viewpoints, Museum Exhibits
Travel Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for the walk up to the castle, and don’t forget your camera for stunning photos.
4. Pyramidenkogel, Austria
Pyramidenkogel, known for its unique wooden observation tower, offers breathtaking views of the Carinthian landscape and Lake Wörthersee. Visitors can either climb the tower or use the elevator and even slide down the tallest slide in Europe.
Distance: Approximately 15 km
Travel Time: About 20 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Wooden observation tower, breathtaking views of Carinthian landscape and Lake Wörthersee, tallest slide in Europe
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Tower Entrance: €12
- Slide: €4
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: Lake Wörthersee Views, Carinthian Landscape
Travel Tip: Visit at sunset for a spectacular view of the lake and surrounding area.
5. Griffen Stalactite Caves, Austria
The Griffen Stalactite Caves are a natural wonder, known as Austria’s most colorful show caves. A guided tour leads through an underground world of stalactites and stalagmites.
Distance: Approximately 30 km
Travel Time: About 30 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Austria’s most colorful show caves, guided tours through stalactites and stalagmites
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Cave Entrance: €10
Budget: Approximately €20-€40 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: Underground Caves, Stalactite Formations
Travel Tip: Bring a jacket as it’s cool inside the cave, and be prepared for some narrow passages.
6. Bled, Slovenia
The picturesque town of Bled in Slovenia, with its iconic lake and island church, is a serene and stunning destination. Activities include rowing to Bled Island, visiting Bled Castle, and trying the famous Bled cream cake.
Distance: Approximately 90 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Picturesque town, Lake Bled, island church, Bled Castle, famous Bled cream cake
Best Time to Visit: Spring to Autumn
Entrance Fees:
- Castle Entrance: €12
- Boat to Island: €15
Budget: Approximately €40-€70 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Lake Bled, Island Church, Castle Viewpoint
Travel Tip: Take a traditional ‘pletna’ boat to the island, and don’t miss the view from the castle.
7. Gmünd, Austria
Gmünd, an artist’s town, is known for its picturesque medieval core, galleries, and the Porsche Car Museum. The town also serves as a gateway to the scenic Malta Valley.
Distance: Approximately 100 km
Travel Time: About 1 hour by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Medieval town, artist’s galleries, Porsche Car Museum, gateway to Malta Valley
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Porsche Museum: €10
Budget: Approximately €30-€50 (including transportation and entrance fees)
Scenic Spots: Historic Streets, Artisan Shops, Malta Valley Views
Travel Tip: Explore the small local artisan shops and enjoy the town’s tranquil atmosphere.
8. Villach, Austria
Villach, a charming town known for its historic center, river landscapes, and thermal spas, offers a mix of culture, relaxation, and outdoor activities. The town also hosts various festivals and events throughout the year.
Distance: Approximately 40 km
Travel Time: About 35 minutes by car
Transportation: Car (GetRentacar.com)
Main Attractions: Historic center, river landscapes, thermal spas, festivals and events
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
Entrance Fees:
- Thermal Spa: €25
- Free (for most outdoor attractions)
Budget: Approximately €30-€60 (including transportation, entrance fees, and food)
Scenic Spots: Drau River Promenade, Villach Town Center
Travel Tip: Visit the Villach thermal spa for a relaxing experience, and explore the Drau river promenade.
Plan Your Perfect Day Trip with Our Trusted Travel Partners
🚗 Find the Best Car Rental Deals with Rentalcars.com and GetRentacar.com
🏨 Discover the Best Accommodations with Booking.com
🌟 Discover Amazing Experiences with GetYourGuide.com and Tiqets.com
📶 Stay Connected with Airalo.com
FAQ About Best Day Trips from Klagenfurt, Austria
What are some recommended day trips from Klagenfurt?
Notable day trips from Klagenfurt include visiting the scenic Wörthersee, the medieval Hochosterwitz Castle, Minimundus (a miniature park), and the charming town of Velden.
Is a visit to Lake Wörthersee a good day trip from Klagenfurt?
Definitely! Lake Wörthersee is known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful surroundings. It’s perfect for swimming, boating, and enjoying the lakeside scenery.
Can I explore the Grossglockner High Alpine Road from Klagenfurt?
Yes, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road, offering stunning mountain views and exciting driving experience, is accessible for a day trip from Klagenfurt.
Are there any historical sites near Klagenfurt for a day visit?
Yes, the Hochosterwitz Castle, an impressive medieval fortress, is a short drive from Klagenfurt. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Austria’s history.
What cultural experiences can I find on a day trip from Klagenfurt?
Visit Minimundus, a park with miniature models of famous buildings worldwide, or explore the museums and galleries in the nearby town of Velden.
Is there a nature reserve close to Klagenfurt for a day trip?
The nearby Dobratsch Nature Park is an excellent choice for nature lovers, offering hiking trails, wildlife spotting, and panoramic views of the region.
Can I take a day trip to Slovenia from Klagenfurt?
Yes, the Slovenian border is close, and you can easily visit charming Slovenian towns like Bled or Ljubljana for a day trip.
Are there any wine tasting tours in the region around Klagenfurt?
The Carinthia region, surrounding Klagenfurt, offers delightful wine tasting tours. These tours showcase local Austrian wines and often include visits to vineyards and cellars.
Sources:
https://www.getyourguide.com/klagenfurt-l3/
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that we have recommended, at no extra cost to you.
