Things To Do
in Linz
Linz is Austria’s vibrant Danube city where a rich industrial heritage meets a lively arts scene. Its compact historic center sits beside the river, offering scenic walks, riverside cafes, and a handful of world-class museums. The city blends classic Austrian charm with modern tech culture, notably through the Ars Electronica Center and innovative street art.
With efficient public transport and bike-friendly routes, Linz is easy to explore on foot or by bike, by day or night.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the heart of Linz by visiting the majestic Hauptplatz, where you can admire the stunning architecture of the old town. Take a leisurely stroll down the cobblestone streets, stopping at local cafes for a traditional Austrian breakfast of pastries and coffee. Don’t forget to snap photos of the impressive Trinity Column, a baroque monument that dominates the square.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Lentos Art Museum, where contemporary art meets the scenic Danube River. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a riverside restaurant, sampling regional dishes like Linzer Torte or Wiener Schnitzel. In the afternoon, take a guided walking tour to learn about the city's rich cultural history and visit landmarks like the Old Cathedral.
As the sun sets, head to Pöstlingberg, a nearby hill offering panoramic views of Linz and the Danube. Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local tavern, where you can indulge in hearty Austrian cuisine paired with regional wines. Conclude your evening with a scenic tram ride back to the city center, soaking in the illuminated sights along the way.
Begin your day with a visit to the Ars Electronica Center, a hub for art, technology, and society. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase the latest advancements in digital media. Enjoy a coffee at the café with views of the river before diving into the fascinating world of tech-driven art.
After exploring the center, take a leisurely walk along the Danube promenade, where you can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and picturesque views. Stop for lunch at a nearby bistro, savoring local specialties and fresh ingredients. In the afternoon, take time to explore the nearby Botanical Garden, a tranquil oasis filled with diverse plant species.
As evening approaches, return to the Ars Electronica Center for a special evening event or exhibition. Dine at a trendy restaurant in the city center, where you can experience modern twists on traditional Austrian dishes. End your day with a stroll along the river, enjoying the reflections of the city lights shimmering in the water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $3-5 |
| 🚎One-way local transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $100-150 |
| 🎟️Museum or attraction ticket | $12-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable city center with a rich mix of history and modern culture
- Strong arts scene (Lentos, Ars Electronica Center) and riverside scenery
- Excellent public transport and bike-friendly pathways
- Friendly locals and frequent seasonal markets and events
- Smaller city compared with Austria’s bigger hubs, so certain events may have fewer options
- Some restaurant and café offerings can be seasonal or tourist-focused in peak times
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Ich hätte gern…" - I would like to have…
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Linz
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand square with historic architecture and the town hall, especially photogenic in the early morning and golden hour light.
A hilltop church with sweeping city views and curving staircases; ideal for wide-angle cityscapes and sunset shots.
The Danube riverfront offers reflective water, bridges, and city silhouettes, perfect for long-exposure shots.
Modern architecture and river backdrop create striking contrasts for urban photography, both day and night.
Food in Linz
Linz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A iconic almond-spiked tart with a lattice top; a must-try pastry historically tied to Linz, best found in old-town cafés.
Must-Try!
A cheese-filled sausage, a quintessential Austrian street food often enjoyed with mustard and a bread roll at markets or sausage stands.
Thin breaded veal or pork cutlet served with parsley potatoes or potato salad; widely available in traditional restaurants.
Pan-fried trout in a simple butter-lemon sauce, a nod to Linz’s riverine location.
Apple strudel with vanilla sauce or whipped cream, a classic dessert often found in cafés around Hauptplatz.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly and seasonal stalls offering regional produce, cheeses, breads, and seasonal snacks in Linz’s historic square.
Casual vendors along the riverfront offering quick bites, snacks, and beverages with river views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite Grüß Gott or a simple Hallo is typical. Use formal address until asked to use first names.
Timeliness is appreciated in meetings and social arrangements; plan to arrive on time.
Respect quiet hours in residential areas; keep noise reasonable on public transport and in living spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Linz
Ensure a smooth experience
In Austria, a tip of about 5-10% in restaurants is customary if service charge isn’t included. Round up for small services or leave cash tip to the server.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted in Linz; contactless payments are common in shops, cafes, and transport. ATMs are readily available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blossoms in parks and gardens; good for city walks, outdoor cafés, and photography of fresh city life.
Warm days with extended daylight; Danube promenades buzz with events and outdoor dining. Stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Golden leaves along riverbanks and in parks; comfortable weather for strolls in Altstadt and hill trails.
Cold with possible snow; Christmas markets and warm cafés provide a cozy atmosphere; pack a warm coat and waterproofs.
Linz at Night
Hiking in Linz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A gentle to moderate hike around the Pöstlingberg area with hillside viewpoints and forest trails, culminating in city views.
Outdoor trails along the Danube provide relaxed hiking and scenic river vistas, suitable for most fitness levels.
Several short scenic loops around parks and green spaces surrounding the city, ideal for a quick nature escape.
Airports
How to reach Linz by plane.
Located near Hörsching, about 12-20 km from central Linz; convenient for flies to other European destinations and frequent domestic services.
Austria’s main international hub, about 190-210 km from Linz; connected by high-speed rail and road, suitable for intercontinental connections.
A regional option about 120-180 km from Linz; good for short connections and scenic routes if traveling via the Innsbruck/Salzburg corridor.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Johannes Kepler University and cultural institutions attract a young, international student and academic presence.
A mix of long-time Linz families and professionals who contribute to a balanced urban culture.
Visitors drawn by museums, architecture, and Danube scenery, enhancing the cosmopolitan vibe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Local clubs and matches are common; Blau-Weiß Linz is a notable team with a growing following.
The Danube offers opportunities for rowing and paddling along reachable stretches.
Extensive Danube cycling routes and city bike lanes make cycling a popular way to explore Linz.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Linz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Austrian eateries offer vegetarian options; look for dumplings, risottos, salads, and seasonal veggie plates. When in doubt, ask for ‘vegetarisch’ and request egg-free or cheese-free variants if needed.