Things To Do
in Wels
Wels is a compact riverfront city in Upper Austria, where history meets a laid-back, modern atmosphere. Its well-preserved old town centers around a tree-lined market square with Baroque façades and coffee houses along the Traun River. The city serves as a gateway to the region’s lakes, forests, and easy hiking routes, all just a short train ride away.
With year-round markets, festivals, and gemütliche eateries, Wels offers a friendly, easy-to-navigate sample of Austrian life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying traditional Austrian pastries and coffee. After your meal, stroll through the charming streets of Wels' historic center, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the iconic Stadtplatz, where you can admire the impressive City Hall and the ornate buildings surrounding it.
Visit the Wels Castle, a prominent landmark that dates back to the 12th century, where you can explore its fascinating museum and lovely gardens. Afterward, indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, savoring local specialties such as Wiener Schnitzel. Take some time to relax in the nearby Stadtpark, a perfect spot for a peaceful walk or to enjoy the beautiful greenery.
As the sun sets, head to a traditional Austrian tavern for dinner, enjoying a hearty meal paired with local wines or beers. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the Traun River, where you can enjoy the serene views and the sound of the water. Conclude your evening with a visit to a local bar, soaking in the ambiance and mingling with locals.
Begin your day at the Wels Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of the region through its diverse exhibits. Enjoy a guided tour that provides insights into the local art scene and historical artifacts. Take your time to appreciate the various displays, which highlight both contemporary and traditional Austrian art.
After your museum visit, enjoy lunch at a nearby bistro known for its art-inspired menu. Post-lunch, wander through the charming streets to discover local galleries and artisan shops that showcase unique crafts and artworks. Stop by the Sculpture Park, where you can enjoy both nature and the creative works of local artists.
For dinner, choose a restaurant that features seasonal cuisine, allowing you to taste the best of local ingredients. After your meal, attend a performance at the Wels Culture House, where you can experience regional music, theater, or dance. The night culminates with a relaxing walk back through the illuminated city streets, soaking in the vibrant nighttime atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in a cafe | $3-5 |
| 🏨One-night hotel in central area | $70-140 |
| 🚆One-way public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🎥Movie ticket | $9-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable historic center
- Gateway to Upper Austria’s lakes and hills
- Friendly locals and good-quality cuisine
- Strong public transport connections to Linz and beyond
- Less vibrant nightlife than larger cities
- Smaller range of big-city attractions
- Some areas more touristy in peak season
- "Guten Tag" - Good day / Hello
- "Grüß Gott" - Hello (formal)
- "Bitte" - Please
- "Danke" - Thank you
- "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
- "Wie viel kostet das?" - How much does this cost?
- "Wo ist der Bahnhof?" - Where is the train station?
- "Könnte ich die Speisekarte sehen?" - Could I see the menu?
Places to Visit in Wels
Visit one of these nice places.
A lively cobbled square framed by Baroque façades and the town hall, ideal for street photography.
Path along the river with bridges, boats, and sunset reflections.
Historic churches and winding lanes offering classic Austrian city textures.
Food in Wels
Wels Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thin breaded veal or pork cutlet served with potato salad or parsley potatoes.
Must-Try!
A rich paprika-spiced beef soup with vegetables, often served with bread.
Pan-fried potatoes with onions and meat, typically topped with a fried egg.
Warm apple strudel with raisins and cinnamon, usually with cream or vanilla sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the historic center offering fresh produce, cheeses, bread, and regional specialties.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Use polite forms like 'Grüß Gott' and address adults with 'Sie' in formal settings.
Being on time for appointments and meetings is appreciated.
Keep hands visible; wait for everyone to be served before starting.
Safety
Tipping in Wels
Ensure a smooth experience
In Austria, rounding up or leaving about 5-10% for good service is common; cash is appreciated.
Cash and cards are widely accepted; most places also accept contactless payments and mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long days, outdoor dining, and riverside recreation; occasional thunderstorms.
Pleasant temperatures with harvest markets and fall foliage.
Cold weather with potential snow; Christmas markets and cozy taverns.
Milder temps, blooming parks, and outdoor events returning to full swing.
Wels at Night
Hiking in Wels
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike with rewarding views over the Traun valley.
Forested hills with several easy to moderate trails.
Mountain trails with alpine scenery and lake views.
Airports
How to reach Wels by plane.
Located near Linz, about a short drive from Wels, with domestic and some international connections.
Austria’s largest airport, about 1.5–2 hours by rail or car from Wels.
Northern Austria's airport, a longer drive but feasible for connections to Europe.
A major international hub within a few hours’ drive or rail from Wels.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Austrian with a mix of families, students, and professionals.
Locals who enjoy outdoor activities around the Traun and nearby lakes.
Tourists from German-speaking countries and other parts of Europe.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Austria with local clubs and attendance at matches.
Road cycling and mountain biking are common around the region.
Seasonal winter sport opportunities within a couple of hours' drive.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wels.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose seasonal vegetables, cheese dishes, and hearty salads; many places offer vegetarian stews and veggie schnitzel.