Destinations › Europe › Austria

Upper Austria

Best time: May to September

Introduction

Upper Austria offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences. The Danube River flows through the region, providing scenic views and opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.

Visitors can explore charming towns like Linz, known for its contemporary art scene, and Steyr, which features well-preserved medieval architecture. The region is also home to numerous lakes, perfect for swimming in summer and ice skating in winter.

Sightseeing

Linz: a city with a vibrant arts scene

Salzburg: famous for its baroque architecture

Hallstatt: a picturesque lakeside village

Mauthausen: site of a former concentration camp

Traunsee: a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains

Enns: one of the oldest towns in Austria

St. Wolfgang: known for its charming church

Gmunden: famous for its ceramics and lake views

Local food and drinks

Linzer Torte: a traditional fruit tart

Käsekrainer: a sausage filled with cheese

Most: a local apple or pear cider

Schlumberger: Austrian sparkling wine

Bier: try local brews like Zipfer or Puntigamer

Local traditions

Linzfest: a summer festival celebrating music and culture

Advent Markets: festive markets during the Christmas season

Kirtag: local fairs with traditional food and music

Fasching: a lively carnival season before Lent

History

Upper Austria has a rich history that dates back to the Roman Empire. The region was an important trade route and has seen various cultural influences over the centuries, from Celtic tribes to Habsburg rule.

In the 20th century, Upper Austria played a significant role during both World Wars. Today, it is known for its industrial contributions and as a center for education and innovation, particularly in Linz.