Linz, the third-largest city in Austria, is a dynamic urban center known for its innovative art scene, technological advancements, and rich cultural heritage. For those pondering things to do in Linz, visiting the Ars Electronica Center, a museum focused on the intersection of art, technology, and society, and exploring the historic Old Town with its baroque architecture and the Linz Castle Museum, are top activities.
The city’s Danube River setting provides a picturesque backdrop, with the Lentos Art Museum, housed in a striking modern building along the riverbank, showcasing contemporary art and modernist classics. Nearby, the Pöstlingberg, accessible by the iconic Pöstlingbergbahn mountain tram, offers panoramic views of Linz and the surrounding region.
Beyond its artistic and architectural landmarks, Linz is celebrated for its culinary delights, including the famous Linzer Torte, reputed to be the world’s oldest cake recipe. For those seeking the best places to visit in Austria, Linz’s combination of cultural vibrancy, technological innovation, and culinary tradition makes it a diverse and exciting destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Linz, Austria
1. Ars Electronica Center
The Ars Electronica Center, known as the Museum of the Future, is a unique institution focusing on new technology, media arts, and society. The center stands out for its interactive and innovative exhibits, blending art and technology in fascinating ways.
Location: Linz, Austria, near the Danube River. Easily accessible from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Modern glass architecture with a beautiful riverside setting.
Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds; evenings for special light displays.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with interactive exhibits engaging both children and adults.
Price: €12.50 for adults, €9.50 for students and seniors, €5 for children under 14.
Travel Tip: Be sure to check out the Deep Space 8K, a one-of-a-kind immersive experience with ultra-high-definition imagery on gigantic screens.
2. Linz Main Square (Hauptplatz)
Linz’s Hauptplatz is one of the largest enclosed squares in Austria, lined with beautiful baroque buildings and the impressive Old Town Hall. The square is a bustling hub of activity, hosting various events and markets throughout the year.
Location: Central Linz, Austria. Easily walkable from major city attractions.
Scenic Spot: Historic baroque buildings, the Old Town Hall, and the Holy Trinity Column.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for a relaxed experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square, and don’t miss trying the famous Linzer Torte at one of the local cafes.
3. Linz Castle (Linzer Schloss)
Perched above the city, Linz Castle offers a mix of old and modern architecture, with parts of the castle dating back to the 9th century. It houses the Upper Austrian Provincial Museum, showcasing art and cultural history from the region.
Location: Perched on a hill overlooking the Danube, in central Linz.
Scenic Spot: Panoramic views of Linz and the river from the castle terraces.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for the best lighting for photographs.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but steep paths may be challenging for elderly visitors.
Price: €6 for adults, €4.50 for students and seniors, free for children under 6.
Travel Tip: The castle’s terraces offer stunning views over Linz and the Danube River, making it a perfect spot for photography enthusiasts.
4. Danube River Promenade
The Danube River flows right through Linz, and the riverside promenade is ideal for a relaxing walk or bike ride. The promenade is lined with parks, cafes, and artworks, making it a popular spot among locals and tourists alike.
Location: Runs along the Danube River in Linz, connecting various landmarks.
Scenic Spot: Stunning river views, especially at sunset.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for a relaxing walk.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for families, couples, and solo travelers.
Price: Free to explore; Danube cruises start at €15-€25.
Travel Tip: Consider taking a Danube river cruise for a different perspective of Linz and the surrounding areas.
5. Lentos Art Museum
Lentos, located on the banks of the Danube River, is one of Austria’s most important museums of modern and contemporary art. Its striking glass facade is beautifully illuminated at night, and the museum hosts an impressive collection of artworks from the 19th century to the present.
Location: Linz, Austria, near the Danube River. A short walk from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Modern glass architecture with illuminated facades at night.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for quieter visits; evening to see the building lights.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but young children may find modern art less engaging.
Price: €10 for adults, €7 for students and seniors, free for children under 6.
Travel Tip: Visit Lentos in the evening to see the building light up, and combine it with a walk along the Danube.
6. St. Martin’s Church
St. Martin’s Church is the oldest church in Austria that’s still in use, dating back to the 8th century. This small and unassuming church is a hidden gem, boasting a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements.
Location: Linz city center, tucked between modern buildings.
Scenic Spot: Austria’s oldest surviving church with medieval frescoes.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for a peaceful experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but may be less interesting for young children.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Due to its small size, the church can be easy to miss. Look for it tucked away between the more modern buildings in the city center.
7. Pöstlingberg
Overlooking Linz, Pöstlingberg offers panoramic views of the city and the Danube. The Pöstlingbergbahn, a historic mountain tramway, is a charming way to reach the top where you’ll find the pilgrimage basilica and a fairytale park for children.
Location: Overlooking Linz, accessible via the historic Pöstlingbergbahn tram.
Scenic Spot: Breathtaking panoramic views of Linz and the Danube.
Best Time to Visit: Sunset for the most scenic city views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with a fairytale park for children near the basilica.
Price: €8.60 for a round-trip tram ride, free to visit the basilica.
Travel Tip: Visit near sunset for a breathtaking view of Linz as the city lights begin to twinkle.
8. Mural Harbor
Mural Harbor is an outdoor gallery in Linz’s harbor area, featuring more than 300 works of graffiti and street art by artists from around the world. This unique project transforms the industrial port into a vibrant and colorful art space.
Location: Linz’s harbor district, a short distance from the city center.
Scenic Spot: Over 300 large-scale graffiti and street art murals.
Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for the best light for photography.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but best appreciated by those interested in urban art.
Price: Free to explore; guided tours cost around €15-€20.
Travel Tip: You can take a guided tour to learn more about the artists and their works, or explore the area on your own to discover its urban art scene.
Plan Your Perfect 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
Linz, Austria: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Linz: 7/10 – Linz offers several family-friendly activities such as the Ars Electronica Center with interactive exhibits, the Linz Zoo, and Pöstlingberg Adventure World with its fairy-tale grotto railway. These attractions provide engaging experiences for children.
Nightlife in Linz: 6/10 – Nightlife in Linz is moderate, with a variety of bars, pubs, and a few nightclubs. While it has some vibrant spots, the nightlife scene is more relaxed compared to Austria’s larger cities like Vienna.
Sport in Linz: 7/10 – Linz provides ample opportunities for both active and passive sports. The city has numerous parks and trails for running, cycling, and hiking. Spectator sports, including football and ice hockey, are also popular, with local teams drawing significant crowds.
Culture and Attractions in Linz: 8/10 – Linz is rich in cultural activities, featuring a mix of historical and modern attractions. Highlights include the Lentos Art Museum, the Brucknerhaus concert hall, and the annual Ars Electronica Festival. The city’s historic architecture and cultural events make it a vibrant cultural hub.
Gastronomy in Linz: 7/10 – Linz offers a diverse culinary scene with traditional Austrian dishes, as well as international cuisine. The city is known for its Linzer Torte, a local pastry, and has numerous restaurants and cafes that provide a pleasant dining experience.
Shopping in Linz: 6/10 – Shopping in Linz includes a range of options from modern shopping centers to local boutiques and markets. While it has a decent variety, it may not satisfy those looking for an extensive shopping experience.
Prices in Linz: 6/10 – Linz is relatively affordable compared to larger Austrian cities, with moderate prices for accommodation and dining. While not the cheapest, it offers good value for the experiences it provides.
Average price for a hotel night: 110 €
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 15 €
Price of a beer: 4 €
Price of a coffee: 3 €
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Linz, Austria
For those looking to explore beyond the innovative cityscape, top day trips near Linz provide an opportunity to dive into Upper Austria’s diverse attractions, from the mystical landscapes of the Mühlviertel region to the baroque elegance of St. Florian’s Monastery, offering a mix of natural beauty and historical richness just a short journey away.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Linz accommodations offer a spectrum of choices, from modern, design-forward hotels in the city center to traditional inns that exude local charm, ensuring visitors have a convenient and comfortable home base for their urban and rural explorations.
FAQ About Things to Do in Linz, Austria
What are the top attractions in Linz?
Key attractions in Linz include the Ars Electronica Center, Linz Castle, the Old Cathedral, and the Hauptplatz (Main Square).
Can I visit the Ars Electronica Center in Linz?
Yes, the Ars Electronica Center, known for its focus on technology, art, and society, offers interactive exhibitions and is a must-visit for technology enthusiasts.
What historical sites can I see in Linz?
In Linz, you can visit Linz Castle, which houses a museum showcasing art and cultural history, and the Old Cathedral, known for its stunning architecture.
Are there any parks or green spaces in Linz?
Linz offers several green spaces, including the Donaupark and the Botanical Gardens, which are perfect for leisurely walks and relaxation.
What local foods should I try in Linz?
In Linz, be sure to try the famous Linzer Torte, one of the oldest known cakes in the world, and other local specialties like ‘Knödel’ (dumplings) and ‘Tafelspitz’ (boiled beef).
Can I enjoy a cruise on the Danube River in Linz?
Yes, taking a cruise on the Danube River is a popular activity in Linz, offering a unique perspective of the city and the surrounding landscapes.
Is Linz good for shopping?
Linz offers a good shopping experience with a variety of shops in the Hauptplatz area, the Landstraße pedestrian zone, and the Plus City shopping center.
Are there any day trips I can take from Linz?
Popular day trips from Linz include visiting the Mauthausen Memorial, exploring the scenic Wachau Valley, and the historic city of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Linz
https://www.getyourguide.com/linz-l3463/
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.
