Things To Do
in Völkermarkt
Völkermarkt sits in southern Carinthia on the Drava River, framed by rolling hills and pine forests. The town blends a well-preserved historic core with modern cafés, markets, and a starting point for lake and mountain excursions. Carinthian hospitality shines in the local cuisine, coffee culture, and outdoor-friendly lifestyle.
It serves as a convenient base for day trips to Lake Klopeiner See, the Keutschach Alps, and the larger towns of Klagenfurt and Villach.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Völkermarkt's historic center, admiring the charming architecture that dates back to the Middle Ages. Visit the local market to sample fresh pastries and local cheeses while mingling with friendly locals. Don't miss the impressive Parish Church of St. Joseph, where you can appreciate its stunning frescoes and serene atmosphere.
After lunch at a cozy café, visit the Völkermarkt Museum to learn about the region's rich history and culture. Explore the exhibits showcasing local art and artifacts that narrate the story of the town and its surroundings. Enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the nearby parks, perfect for a relaxing afternoon walk.
As the sun sets, head to one of the local restaurants for an authentic Austrian dinner, savoring dishes like Wiener Schnitzel or Kärntner Kasnudeln. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the banks of the Völkermarkt River, enjoying the serene views. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a local pub, immersing yourself in the friendly atmosphere.
Wake up early and prepare for a day of adventure in the stunning natural landscapes around Völkermarkt. Head to the nearby Koralpe mountain range, where you can enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local lodge before hitting the trails. Spend the morning hiking through lush forests and rolling hills, taking in the fresh mountain air and breathtaking views.
After a picnic lunch amidst nature, continue your hike to discover hidden waterfalls and picturesque viewpoints. Keep your camera ready, as the scenery offers countless opportunities for stunning photographs. As you trek, look out for local wildlife and native plants that highlight the region's biodiversity.
Return to Völkermarkt, feeling invigorated from your outdoor adventure. Treat yourself to dinner at a local tavern known for its farm-to-table offerings, highlighting local ingredients. Share stories with fellow travelers about your day under the twinkling stars, enjoying the peaceful sounds of nature around you.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥖Groceries (basic items for a week) | $40-70 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆One-way local transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town center with historic charm
- Easy access to lakes, hills, and nature
- Warm Carinthian hospitality and flavorful cuisine
- Good value for money and strong regional markets
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some attractions are spread out; a car helps
- Weather can be variable in shoulder seasons
- Smaller-scale accommodation options in peak demand
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello / Good day
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much is this?
- "Könnten Sie mir helfen?" - Could you help me?
- "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Danke schön" - Thank you
- "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me / Sorry
- "Ich verstehe nicht" - I don’t understand
- "Könnten Sie das bitte wiederholen?" - Could you repeat that, please?
- "Könnte ich die Speisekarte sehen?" - Could I see the menu?
Places to Visit in Völkermarkt
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful façades, arcades, and the historic Rathaus provide a quintessential Austrian town-center shot, especially in morning light.
Water reflections, willows, and ducks along the river offer serene compositions at sunrise or sunset.
A short climb yields panoramic views over the Drava valley and surrounding hills, perfect for landscape panoramas.
Food in Völkermarkt
Völkermarkt Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Cheese- and herb-filled dumplings served with melted butter and crumbled breadcrumbs.
Must-Try!
A cinnamon- and raisin-scented yeasted cake, often enjoyed with coffee.
Pan-fried trout from local waters, typically served with potatoes and dill.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal produce, cheeses, smoked meats, and regional specialties on Fridays.
Bratwursts, pretzels, and fresh bread near market areas—great for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use Grüß Gott or Guten Tag; a handshake is typical in formal or first-time meetings.
Be on time for appointments and reservations; lateness is noticed.
Loud public behavior is frowned upon; dress modestly when visiting churches and religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Völkermarkt
Ensure a smooth experience
A tip of 5-10% in restaurants is customary if service is good; rounding up is common for small totals.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; contactless payments and mobile wallets are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with garden blossoms and budding trees; great for city walks and early-in-season markets.
Warm to hot days with occasional thunderstorms; ideal for lake swims, outdoor dining, and longer walks.
Comfortable temperatures, harvest festivities, and colorful foliage; quieter trails and cafés with seasonal menus.
Cold with possible snow; cozy cafés, nearby winter hikes, and regional markets enhancing the seasonal mood.
Völkermarkt at Night
Hiking in Völkermarkt
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails with sweeping views of the Drava valley and surrounding peaks; suitable for a half-day hike.
Alpine-inspired hikes with panoramic overlooks; accessible from nearby towns for a longer day trek.
Highland trails offering wide-angled vistas and forest scenery, ideal for seasoned hikers.
Airports
How to reach Völkermarkt by plane.
Main regional airport serving Carinthia; easy connections to central Europe; typically a 60-75 minute drive or train ride from Völkermarkt.
Major international gateway in neighboring Slovenia; about 2.5-3 hours by road/train from Völkermarkt.
Another practical option with connections across Europe; roughly 2.5-3 hours by car or rail.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A steady presence of local families and commuters; family-friendly eateries and parks.
Day-trippers and visitors from nearby regions; growing interest in nature and culture.
Carinthia has historical cross-border ties; some signage and local life reflect Slovenian influence.
Students from regional towns and professionals who work in larger nearby cities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Regional routes like the Drauradweg are popular with locals and visitors alike.
Accessible hills and nearby alpine trails attract recreational hikers year-round.
Kayaking, stand-up paddle, and swimming on Drava and nearby lakes are common in warm months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Völkermarkt.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many inns offer cheese- and mushroom-based dishes; ask for kasnudeln without meat and vegetable sides.
Inform staff about gluten restrictions; many places can adapt dishes or offer gluten-free bread.