Things To Do
in Wels

Wels, Austria is a charming city located in the Upper Austria region, known for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. The city boasts a blend of medieval architecture and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both history and contemporary attractions. Visitors can explore the picturesque old town, relax by the Traun River, and enjoy numerous parks and recreational areas.

With a welcoming atmosphere and a variety of local events throughout the year, Wels offers something for everyone.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Historical Wels
morning
:

Visit the Wels Castle, where you can learn about the city's medieval history and enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.

afternoon
:

Stroll through the historic old town, stopping by St. Lawrence's Church and the City Museum to immerse yourself in local culture.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Austrian restaurant, followed by a leisurely walk along the Traun River to enjoy the evening scenery.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start your day at the Wels Exhibition Center, where you can check out current exhibitions and cultural events.

afternoon
:

Spend some time at the Wels Zoo, which is home to a variety of animal species and offers a great opportunity for families.

evening
:

Experience Wels' nightlife by visiting a local bar or pub, sampling regional beers and enjoying live music.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Beer$4-$7
🚍Public Transport Ticket$2-$4
🏨Hotel Night$80-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich historical and cultural experiences.
  • Beautiful outdoor spaces and parks.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport options may be less frequent.
  • Can be quiet during off-peak seasons.
  • "Hallo" - Hello
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Wels

Visit one of these nice places.

Wels Castle

An iconic landmark with stunning architecture and picturesque gardens, perfect for capturing the essence of Wels.

Traun River Promenade

This scenic riverside path offers beautiful views and great photo opportunities, especially during sunset.

St. Lawrence's Church

A striking example of Gothic architecture, the church's intricate details provide fantastic photo opportunities.

Culinary Guide

Food in Wels

Wels offers a delightful culinary scene, blending traditional Austrian flavors with modern influences. From hearty dishes to exquisite pastries, the local cuisine is a treat for any foodie.

Wels Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Wiener Schnitzel

A classic Austrian dish made from breaded and fried veal or pork, often served with potato salad or lingonberry jam.

Must-Try!

Apfelstrudel

A traditional Austrian dessert, this apple strudel is filled with spiced apples and wrapped in thin layers of dough.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Wels Farmers' Market

Held weekly, this market features local produce, cheeses, and artisanal goods, allowing visitors to taste the region's flavors.

Street Food Festival

An annual event showcasing various street food vendors, offering everything from traditional Austrian snacks to international cuisine.

Climate Guide

Weather

Wels experiences a temperate continental climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) are cold, often dropping below freezing, while summers (June to August) are warm, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn feature mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) to 20°C (68°F), making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, so it's wise to pack an umbrella.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A firm handshake is customary when meeting someone for the first time. It's polite to greet everyone in the group.

Punctuality

Being on time is valued in Austrian culture, whether for social events or business meetings.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin the meal and use utensils properly, as table manners are important.

Safety Guide

Safety

Wels is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, as with any urban area, visitors should take standard precautions like avoiding poorly lit streets at night and being aware of their belongings in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and local hospitals are equipped for a range of medical needs.

Tipping in Wels

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of around 5-10% in restaurants and cafes.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Wels brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer offers warm weather, perfect for enjoying outdoor cafes and events, but be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful fall foliage and cooler temperatures, ideal for hiking and exploring the countryside.

Winter

Winter can be cold, with opportunities for snow activities, Christmas markets, and festive decorations throughout the city.

Nightlife Guide

Wels at Night

Wels has a vibrant nightlife scene with a range of bars, pubs, and clubs catering to different tastes. The city comes alive in the evenings, especially on weekends, with many venues featuring live music, DJs, and themed nights. Popular spots include cozy wine bars where you can sample local wines and lively dance clubs that attract a younger crowd. Outdoor terraces are also common, providing a relaxed atmosphere for socializing during warmer months.

Hiking in Wels

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Pöstlingberg Trail

A scenic trail that leads to the Pöstlingberg hill, offering stunning views of Linz and the surrounding countryside.

Traunstein Mountain Trail

This challenging trail leads up to the Traunstein mountain, providing breathtaking views and a rewarding hiking experience.

Airports

How to reach Wels by plane.

Blue Danube Airport Linz (LNZ)

Located approximately 20 km from Wels, this airport offers domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Wels is a highly walkable city, with many attractions located within a short distance of each other. The pedestrian-friendly streets in the old town are lined with shops, cafes, and historical sites, making it easy to explore on foot. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are plenty of pedestrian crossings at major intersections.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Wels, young professionals are attracted by job opportunities and the city's vibrant cultural scene.

Families

Wels is home to many families who appreciate the city's quality of life, parks, and educational opportunities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is a widely followed sport in Wels, with local clubs and matches attracting enthusiastic fans.

Ice Hockey

Ice hockey has a strong following in the region, with local teams competing in various leagues, particularly in the winter months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Wels is generally manageable, with peak hours seeing some congestion. The city has a reliable public transportation system, including buses that connect various neighborhoods and nearby towns. Cycling is also a popular mode of transport, with dedicated bike lanes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Wels.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Wels offer vegetarian dishes, often featuring seasonal vegetables and local ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Gluten-free options are becoming more common, with several cafes and restaurants catering to dietary needs.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Wels has a good healthcare system, with several hospitals and clinics providing a range of medical services. Walk-in clinics are available for minor ailments, and emergency services are well-equipped. Visitors should have travel insurance that covers medical care, and EU citizens can use their European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) for access to healthcare services.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide