Things To Do
in Klagenfurt
Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia in southern Austria, sits on the eastern shore of the Wörthersee and blends a compact medieval core with lakeside leisure. The old town's pastel façades, promenades, and piazzas invite easy wandering, while the surrounding hills and the lake offer quick access to nature. The city serves as a gateway to both Alpine scenery and Adriatic-influenced cuisine, making it a relaxed hub for culture, history, and outdoor activities.
Expect a friendly, efficient Austrian atmosphere with a focus on outdoor living and lakeside vibes.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure in Klagenfurt's charming city center. Walk along the historic streets and admire the stunning architecture of Landhaus and the Armory. Don't forget to visit the iconic Dragon Fountain, a symbol of the city.
After lunch at a local café, head to the Minimundus, a miniature park featuring replicas of famous landmarks from around the world. This afternoon activity is both educational and fun, as you stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens. Take your time to capture photos and appreciate the intricate details of the models.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to dinner at one of Klagenfurt's delightful restaurants serving traditional Austrian cuisine. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere in the city as locals gather and socialize. After your meal, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Wörthersee Lake, which is particularly enchanting at dusk.
Kick off your day with a refreshing swim or a paddleboat excursion on the warm waters of Wörthersee Lake. The stunning views of the surrounding mountains will take your breath away. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a lakeside café as you soak in the beautiful scenery.
Experience the vibrant atmosphere at one of the lakeside beaches, where you can lay back and relax under the sun. Take part in water sports like jet skiing, or rent a bike to explore the scenic bike paths around the lake. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the grassy shores while watching the world go by.
As evening arrives, dine at one of the many restaurants offering lakeside views and exquisite local dishes. Savor a glass of local wine while enjoying the tranquil ambiance as the sun sets over the lake. Take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the lively ambiance created by summer concerts and events.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in café | $3-5 |
| 🥗Main course at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚌Public transit ticket | $2-4 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $100-170 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable old town with lakeside access
- Excellent regional cuisine and fresh lake fish
- Good mix of culture, history, and outdoor activities
- Accessible by short flight from several European cities
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal crowds around the lake in summer can be busy
- Some attractions require a short trip outside the city for full variety
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der nächste Bahnhof?" - Where is the nearest train station?
- "Ich hätte gern ..." - I would like ...
- "Danke schön" - Thank you very much
- "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
- "Gute Nacht" - Good night
- "Entschuldigen Sie" - Excuse me
- "Sagen Sie mir bitte..." - Please tell me...
Places to Visit in Klagenfurt
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic dragon fountain with pastel buildings as a backdrop; early morning or golden hour yields the best soft light.
Wide-open square framed by historic façades and arcades, ideal for architectural shots and street photography.
Climb for sweeping city and lake views; the vantage point is perfect for panoramic shots, especially at sunset.
Long lakefront with boats, promenades, and sun-kissed reflections—great for wide-landscape and lifestyle photography.
Besides the miniature world, the surrounding grounds provide interesting composition opportunities and reflections on the water.
Food in Klagenfurt
Klagenfurt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pilled pasta pockets filled with curd cheese and potatoes, often served with melted butter and herb sauce; best found in traditional restaurants and family-run inns.
Must-Try!
A fragrant yeast cake filled with spiced fruit and a touch of sugar glaze; popular as a hearty breakfast or afternoon treat.
Dishes featuring local freshwater fish (like carp) from the lake, typically prepared simply with herbs, lemon, and butter.
A rustic stew made with barley, beans, bacon or smoked meat, and vegetables—comforting and deeply regional.
Sweet, airy cakes and traditional Austrian pastries that pair well with coffee at lakeside cafés.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A seasonal market near the river where locals buy fresh produce, baked goods, cheeses, and regional specialties; great for sampling everyday Kärntner flavors.
A bustling spot for fresh fruit, vegetables, herbs, and ready-to-eat street foods on market days.
Casual options along the lakefront offering grilled fish, Austrian snacks, and light bites with a view of the water.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Grüß Gott' or 'Guten Tag' in German; a handshake is common in formal introductions. Address people with 'Herr' or 'Frau' unless invited to use first names.
Being on time is valued in both business and social contexts.
Smart-casual is typical for restaurants; modest behavior in religious sites and quietness in public transport and queues are appreciated.
Many shops close on Sundays; plan accordingly and visit museums or cafes instead.
Safety
Tipping in Klagenfurt
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 5–10% is customary if service is not already included in the bill; round up for smaller purchases or leave a modest tip at cafés and bars.
Cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops; cash is still common for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days, blooming trees, and fewer crowds. Pack light layers and a rain jacket; outdoor cafés begin to reopen and markets resume full activity.
Warm to hot days with swimming and lake activities; bring sun protection and water shoes for lake access; occasional thunderstorms are possible.
Crisp air and beautiful foliage; the lakeside becomes quieter and cafés offer seasonal specialties; ideal for photography and scenic walks.
Cold but often sunny days with the charm of Christmas markets; layered clothing and good footwear are essential; indoor galleries and cafés provide warmth.
Klagenfurt at Night
Hiking in Klagenfurt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A mountainous escape a short drive away with forested trails and sweeping views of Carinthia; suitable for day hikes and alpine scenery.
Accessible hills around Klagenfurt offering shorter hikes with rewarding overlooks over the lake and valley.
Scenic lookout areas and gentle hikes in the broader lake region; combine with panoramic platforms for photography.
Airports
How to reach Klagenfurt by plane.
Small international airport just a few kilometers from the city center, with seasonal and regional flights.
Austria’s main international hub, about a 4–5 hour train ride or a short flight from Klagenfurt.
Nearby Slovenian airport accessible for cross-border trips and connections to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families, students, and professionals with a strong sense of regional identity.
Several universities and colleges contribute a youthful presence in the city center.
Visitors drawn to lakeside leisure, cultural sites, and easy access to alpine regions.
A varied expatriate community drawn by quality of life and outdoor availability.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Boating, sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and swimming in the lake.
Flat, scenic routes suitable for all levels.
Gentle to moderate trails with panoramic views of the Carinthian landscape.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Klagenfurt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Kärntner dishes can be enjoyed as vegetarian variations; look for Kasnudeln without meat, cheese plates, and seasonal vegetable dishes. Ask in advance if broths or sauces contain meat stock.
Many restaurants can accommodate gluten-free diets; request gluten-free pasta or bread and verify kitchen cross-contamination practices when possible.
Dairy-free options are available in many cafés and restaurants; request plant-based milk for coffee or dairy-free sauces where offered.