Things To Do
in Purkersdorf

Purkersdorf, just outside Vienna in the Wienerwald, combines leafy surroundings with easy access to city culture. The town features historic buildings, a relaxed pace, and nature-filled trails that invite slow exploration. It serves as a tranquil base for day trips to Vienna while offering its own forested escapes and village charm.

Expect warm Austrian hospitality, a touch of rustic charm, and a strong sense of outdoor life here.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Purkersdorf
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the charming town of Purkersdorf, soaking in the picturesque scenery and quaint architecture. Visit the local café for a traditional Austrian breakfast, complete with fresh pastries and coffee. Capture the beauty of the surrounding hills as you walk along the scenic paths.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the historic Purkersdorf Castle, where you can delve into the region's rich history and enjoy guided tours through the beautifully preserved interiors. Take some time to wander around the lush gardens, perfect for a peaceful afternoon respite. Conclude your explorations with a visit to local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy an authentic Austrian dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor delicious dishes like Wiener Schnitzel. After your meal, consider taking an evening walk through the town, where the twinkling lights create a magical atmosphere. Finish your night by relaxing at a cozy bar, enjoying the company of friendly locals.

day 2
Nature and Hiking
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast before venturing into the nearby Vienna Woods, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a guided hiking trail that offers spectacular views and a chance to connect with nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the trees around you.

afternoon
:

After an invigorating hike, enjoy a packed lunch in a scenic spot overlooking the valleys. Spend the afternoon exploring some of the smaller trails, possibly discovering hidden waterfalls and hidden gems. Take a moment to unwind in the tranquility of nature, absorbing the sights and sounds of the forest.

evening
:

Return to Purkersdorf, where you can refresh and prepare for dinner at a family-run restaurant offering a cozy atmosphere. Taste the local wines and enjoy seasonal dishes prepared with fresh ingredients. As night falls, consider joining a cultural event or concert if available, to immerse yourself in the local art scene.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
Coffee$3-5
🧀Local cheese or snack$6-8
🚆Public transit ticket (single ride)$2-3
🏨Hotel night (budget)$70-120

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Vienna with easy access to city culture
  • Extensive nature in Wienerwald and Purkersdorf Nature Park
  • Quiet, family-friendly atmosphere and safe streets
  • Affordability relative to central Vienna
  • Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities in town
  • Some services are concentrated in Vienna and require travel
  • Public transport may be less frequent on Sundays
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please / You're welcome
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
  • "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the railway station?
  • "Ich hätte gern..." - I would like to have...
  • "Können Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
  • "Ich bin Vegetarier/Vegetarierin" - I am vegetarian
  • "Die Rechnung, bitte" - The check, please

Places to Visit in Purkersdorf

Visit one of these nice places.

Purkersdorf Town Center and Parish Church

Historic buildings, charming streets, and a classic Austrian town square ideal for architectural shots.

Schloss Purkersdorf (exterior)

Elegant castle-like façade and surrounding gardens set against forest backdrops.

Naturpark Purkersdorfer Wald viewpoints

Forest trails with sheltered vantage points over the treetops and rolling hills.

Culinary Guide

Food in Purkersdorf

Purkersdorf sits on the edge of the Vienna Woods, where traditional Austrian comfort food blends with fresh, regional ingredients.

Purkersdorf Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Wiener Schnitzel

Thin, breaded veal or pork cutlet served with lemon, parsley potatoes, and lingonberry jam in many inns.

Must-Try!

Tafelspitz

Tender boiled beef served with horseradish, applesauce, and chive potatoes; a classic Vienna dish.

Apfelstrudel

Warm apple-strudel pastry with raisins and cinnamon, typically served with vanilla sauce or cream.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Purkersdorf Wochenmarkt

Weekend market offering fresh produce, regional cheeses, breads, and baked goods from local vendors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Purkersdorf experiences a temperate climate with warm summers, cool to cold winters, and mild springs and autumns. Rain is common year-round, so layered clothing is recommended.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Punctuality

Being on time is appreciated in appointments and social gatherings.

Address and politeness

Use Sie for strangers and elders; a handshake is common; maintain polite, reserved conversation at first.

Safety Guide

Safety

The town is generally safe with low crime rates. Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas and be mindful of forest areas after dark. Emergency numbers: 112 (EU-wide) and 144 for medical emergencies in Austria.

Tipping in Purkersdorf

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In restaurants and cafes, rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% is common if service is good; cash tips handed to staff directly.

Payment Methods

Cash (EUR) and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; many places also accept mobile wallets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days are great for forest walks and riverside picnics; occasional thunderstorms; bring water and sun protection.

Autumn

Mild days with colorful foliage; perfect for hikes and market visits; layer clothing for chilly mornings and evenings.

Winter

Cold with possible snow; shorter daylight; cozy cafés and festive markets nearby; waterproof shoes are helpful.

Spring

Fresh greenery and blooming flowers; comfortable temperatures for walks and outdoor cafes; be prepared for rain showers.

Nightlife Guide

Purkersdorf at Night

Purkersdorf has a quiet nightlife scene with local taverns and cozy cafes; most evening activity centers on Vienna's bars and cultural venues a short transit ride away rather than large clubs in town.

Hiking in Purkersdorf

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Purkersdorfer Waldweg Loop

Easy to moderate forest loop with shaded paths and gentle elevation changes.

Wienerwald Panorama Trail

Scenic route through the Wienerwald with viewpoints over the valley and dense purling trees.

Riverside trail along Triesting

Flat, scenic trail along the river ideal for relaxed hikes or family walks.

Airports

How to reach Purkersdorf by plane.

Vienna International Airport (VIE)

Located about 25-35 km southeast of Purkersdorf; easy rail or taxi connections to the town.

Bratislava International Airport (BTS)

Approximately 60-70 miles from Purkersdorf; possible but less convenient for short trips to Purkersdorf; often used for budget flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Moderate walkability in the town center with pleasant pedestrian streets; hilly terrain beyond the core area and good signposted forest trails for walkers.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Mostly families, retirees, and commuters to Vienna.

Commuters

Many residents travel to Vienna for work, taking advantage of the direct rail links.

Visitors

Tourists exploring the Vienna Woods and nearby Vienna attractions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Hiking

Popular year-round activity in the Wienerwald with forest trails for all levels.

Cycling

Scenic routes around Purkersdorf and the Vienna Woods; good cycling infrastructure and scenic lanes.

Transportation

Traffic

Public transport includes S-Bahn and tram connections to Vienna, as well as local buses; traffic is manageable with generous parking in the town center. In peak travel times, plan for commuter trains and occasional road congestion toward Vienna.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Purkersdorf.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most restaurants offer vegetarian options such as cheese plates, mushroom dishes, and veggie schnitzel; ask for vegetable sides and soups.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Local GP clinics and pharmacies are available in Purkersdorf; for more advanced care, Vienna offers hospitals and specialty clinics with rapid transit access. If needed, bring a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if applicable.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide