Things To Do
in Gmunden
Gmunden sits on the northern shore of Traunsee in Upper Austria, framed by the Alps. Its historic Old Town features cobbled lanes, flower-filled balconies, and a lively lakeside promenade. The town is renowned for its traditional ceramics and a welcoming café culture.
As a gateway to lake and mountain adventures, it offers relaxed strolls, boat trips, and scenic hikes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Gmunden and settle into your charming lakeside accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Traunsee, absorbing the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. Visit the local market to sample some fresh Austrian pastries and coffee.
Explore the historic town center, marveling at the beautiful architecture, including the iconic Gmunden Town Hall. Visit the porcelain factory to learn about the unique craftsmanship that has been a local tradition for centuries. Enjoy lunch in a cozy café, savoring regional specialties.
Unwind with a scenic boat tour on Traunsee, watching the sun setting behind the mountains. Afterward, indulge in a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant, with fresh fish as the highlight of your meal. Stroll along the lakefront under the stars, soaking in the serene atmosphere of Gmunden.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then head towards the nearby hiking trails for a day immersed in nature. Enjoy a guided hike to the impressive Grünberg mountain, with stunning views of the lake and activity options along the way. Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic lookout points.
After a fulfilling hike, descend back and relax at the local spa, treating yourself to a soothing massage or thermal bath experience. Wander through the surrounding forest areas, admiring the vibrant flora and fauna unique to the region. Grab a light lunch at a mountain hut, indulging in hearty local cuisine.
Return to Gmunden and refresh yourself before venturing out for dinner at a traditional Austrian inn. Enjoy live folk music as you dine, immersing yourself further in the local culture. Conclude the night by taking a peaceful walk along the lakeside promenade under the moonlight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🎬Cinema ticket | $12-15 |
| 🚆Public transport day pass | $6-12 |
| 🚕Taxi 1km | $2-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Picturesque lakefront town in the Austrian Alps
- Accessible gateway to Traunsee activities
- Compact and walkable historic center
- Rich ceramics tradition and café culture
- Small nightlife scene compared with big cities
- Can be crowded in summer on the lakefront
- Limited high-end dining options in the immediate town center
- Occasional steep hills in the historic center
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern…" - I would like…
- "Danke" - Thank you
Places to Visit in Gmunden
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque castle set on a small island with water, boats and mountain backdrops.
Historic façades, flower boxes and reflective lake scenes ideal for golden-hour shots.
Panoramic overlook offering sweeping views over Traunsee and the Alpine skyline.
Food in Gmunden
Gmunden Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh trout from the Traunsee, lightly pan-fried with lemon, parsley and butter.
Must-Try!
Carp prepared in various regional styles, often served with potatoes and dill.
Egg noodles layered with melted cheese and fried onions, a comforting Alpine classic.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering cheeses, breads and seasonal produce near the town hall.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with Grüß Gott or Servus; use Sie for strangers in formal settings.
Punctuality is appreciated; plan transitions between activities with time to spare.
Keep voices moderate and mind basic etiquette; tipping is customary but not mandatory.
Safety
Tipping in Gmunden
Ensure a smooth experience
Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common; service charges are often included.
Cash and cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments common; small venues often prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days are perfect for boat trips, swimming and lakefront hikes; evenings are lively with cafés and outdoor seating.
Mild days with colorful foliage; ideal for scenic hikes and quieter streets.
Cold with occasional snow in the surrounding mountains; charming Christmas markets and cozy cafés.
Flowers bloom around the lake; trails reopen and temperatures rise gradually.
Gmunden at Night
Hiking in Gmunden
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails offering panoramic viewpoints over Traunsee and the Alps.
Popular day hikes with rewarding lake views; suitable for experienced hikers.
Flat to moderate routes along the Traunsee shoreline for easy days.
Airports
How to reach Gmunden by plane.
Largest regional airport serving Upper Austria; about 90 minutes by road/train to Gmunden.
Major international airport in Salzburg; roughly 1.5-2 hours by rail or car to Gmunden.
Austria’s largest airport; about 3-4 hours by rail with transfers to Gmunden.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of locals, families, retirees, and students; steady tourism year-round.
Domestic and international visitors drawn to the lake and mountains.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Wind and water sports on the lake are very popular in summer.
Easy to challenging trails in the Salzkammergut with lake and mountain views.
Local clubs organize rowing on the lake for all levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gmunden.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer cheese dishes, vegetable plates and salads; request meat-free options and confirm egg/dairy usage.