Best Things To Do And Activities In Upper Austria

Here are some of the best outdoor activities to enjoy in this stunning region:
Hiking: With its picturesque landscapes and numerous trails, Upper Austria is a paradise for hikers. Explore the Austrian Alps, hike around serene lakes, or trek through lush forests, discovering breathtaking vistas along the way.
Cycling and Biking: Take advantage of the well-marked cycling paths and bike routes that crisscross the region. Whether you prefer leisurely rides along the Danube or more challenging mountain biking trails, Upper Austria has options for all skill levels.
Water Sports: Enjoy water sports on the region’s stunning lakes, such as swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and boating. The lakes, including Wolfgangsee and Attersee, offer idyllic settings for aquatic adventures.
Rock Climbing: The Austrian Alps provide excellent opportunities for rock climbing, catering to both beginners and experienced climbers. Climb the scenic limestone cliffs and take in the breathtaking views from elevated vantage points.
Paragliding and Hang Gliding: Experience the thrill of flying over the magnificent landscapes of Upper Austria by paragliding or hang gliding. Soar high above the alpine meadows and lakes for an unforgettable adventure.
Skiing and Snowboarding: In winter, hit the slopes at the region’s ski resorts, like Dachstein West or Kasberg, to enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports activities.
Nordic Walking: Take part in Nordic walking on dedicated paths, combining fitness with the pleasure of being outdoors. It’s an excellent way to explore the region’s natural beauty at a more relaxed pace.
Wildlife Watching: Upper Austria is rich in wildlife, including deer, wild boar, and various bird species. Join guided wildlife tours to spot these creatures in their natural habitats.
Rafting and Canyoning: For an adrenaline rush, try white-water rafting or canyoning in the region’s rivers and gorges. It’s a thrilling way to experience the power of nature up close.
Golfing: Tee off at one of Upper Austria’s picturesque golf courses, set against stunning backdrops of mountains and lakes.

Here are some of the most popular things to do with kids in Upper Austria:
Grottenbahn Postlingberg: Kids will love the Grottenbahn, a charming cave-themed amusement ride in Linz. It takes them on a magical journey through fairy-tale scenes and encounters with whimsical creatures.
Linz Zoo: The Linz Zoo is a great place for kids to get up close to a diverse range of animals, including monkeys, elephants, and penguins. It offers a fun and educational experience for the whole family.
Botanic Garden Linz: Located near the zoo, the Botanic Garden is a delightful place to explore diverse plant species and enjoy a leisurely walk amidst beautiful gardens.
Playgrounds and Parks: Upper Austria has numerous playgrounds and parks where kids can run, play, and have fun. Linz, in particular, has several playgrounds in various neighborhoods.
Swimming in Lakes and Pools: On a sunny day, head to one of the region’s family-friendly swimming areas or public pools, such as those at Lake Wolfgangsee or Lake Traunsee.
Farm Visits: Many farms in Upper Austria offer interactive experiences for kids, including petting zoos, tractor rides, and opportunities to learn about farm animals and agriculture.
Boat Rides on Lakes: Take a boat trip on one of the region’s lakes, such as Lake Wolfgangsee or Lake Hallstatt. Kids will enjoy the boat ride and the scenic surroundings.
Children’s Museum in Linz: The “Kinder-Kunst-Museum” (Children’s Art Museum) in Linz offers creative and interactive exhibits designed especially for kids.
Fairy Tale Parks: Some regions in Upper Austria have fairy-tale-themed parks with play areas, sculptures of favorite characters, and activities that spark children’s imaginations.
Hiking and Nature Walks: Choose family-friendly hiking trails, such as those with shorter distances and mild slopes, where kids can explore the region’s beautiful nature.

Here’s a revised list of the top attractions to visit in Upper Austria:
Hallstatt: A picturesque village on the shores of Lake Hallstatt, renowned for its stunning alpine scenery, historic charm, and the Hallstatt Salt Mine.
Linz Old Town: Explore the historic heart of Linz with its beautiful architecture, narrow streets, and notable landmarks like Linz Castle and St. Mary’s Cathedral.
Mauthausen Memorial: An important historical site, the former Nazi concentration camp serves as a powerful reminder of World War II atrocities and honors the memory of the victims.
Salzkammergut Region: Embrace the beauty of this region with its scenic lakes like Wolfgangsee and Traunsee, and charming villages such as St. Wolfgang and Gmunden.
Hohenwerfen Castle: Located near Salzburg, this medieval fortress offers breathtaking views and hosts captivating falconry shows, providing a glimpse into the past.
St. Florian Monastery: Marvel at the magnificent Baroque architecture, library, and frescoes of this historic monastery, surrounded by serene gardens.
Dachstein Caves: Embark on an underground adventure to witness the fascinating ice formations and rock structures of the Dachstein Caves.
Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave: Discover the world’s largest ice cave near Werfen, featuring mesmerizing ice formations in an enchanting setting.
Ars Electronica Center: In Linz, engage in interactive exhibits that celebrate the convergence of technology, art, and science.
Postlingbergbahn and Grottenbahn: Take the funicular up to Postlingberg for panoramic views of Linz and enjoy family-friendly fun at the Grottenbahn with fairy-tale-themed rides.

Here are some of the top must-visit attractions in the region:
Hallstatt: This fairytale-like village on the shores of Lake Hallstatt is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a top attraction in Upper Austria. Explore its charming streets, visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine, and take a boat ride on the lake for stunning views.
Linz Old Town: The historic old town of Linz boasts picturesque squares, beautiful architecture, and narrow cobblestone streets. Highlights include the Linz Castle, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and the impressive Main Square.
Mauthausen Memorial: A somber but important site, the Mauthausen Memorial is a former Nazi concentration camp that serves as a powerful reminder of the atrocities of World War II. Visitors can learn about the camp’s history and pay their respects to the victims.
Salzkammergut Region: This picturesque region includes numerous lakes, such as Lake Wolfgangsee and Lake Traunsee, as well as charming villages like St. Wolfgang and Gmunden. It is a paradise for nature lovers and offers breathtaking alpine landscapes.
Hohenwerfen Castle: Located near Salzburg, this medieval fortress perched on a rocky outcrop offers stunning views and hosts captivating falconry shows, making it a fascinating historical and cultural attraction.
St. Florian Monastery: Situated near Linz, this magnificent Baroque monastery is renowned for its impressive architecture, beautiful library, and stunning frescoes. The tranquil gardens also offer a peaceful retreat.
Dachstein Caves: Explore the fascinating underground world of the Dachstein Caves, where magnificent ice formations and intricate rock structures create an otherworldly experience.
Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave: Near Werfen, this is the largest ice cave in the world. A guided tour takes visitors through a mesmerizing world of ice and rock formations.
Ars Electronica Center: Located in Linz, this interactive museum is a celebration of technology, art, and science, providing a unique and engaging experience for all ages.
Postlingbergbahn and Grottenbahn: Take the funicular up to Postlingberg for panoramic views of Linz and visit the Grottenbahn, a family-friendly attraction featuring fairy-tale-themed rides.

Stunning Landscapes: Upper Austria is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, characterized by majestic mountains, serene lakes, and lush greenery. The region’s natural beauty has inspired artists, writers, and travelers alike.
Hallstatt: The picturesque village of Hallstatt is one of the most famous and iconic destinations in Austria. Its idyllic setting on the shores of a crystal-clear lake, nestled between towering mountains, has earned it a place on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Linz: As the capital of Upper Austria, Linz is a vibrant city known for its cultural offerings, modern architecture, and dynamic arts scene. It was designated as the European Capital of Culture in 2009.
Musical Heritage: Upper Austria has a rich musical heritage, with famous composers like Anton Bruckner and Gustav Mahler having roots in the region. The city of Salzburg, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is also closely associated with Upper Austria.
Christmas Markets: Upper Austria is renowned for its charming and festive Christmas markets. Cities like Linz and Steyr host enchanting markets during the holiday season, attracting visitors from all over.
Outdoor Activities: The region offers an abundance of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, snowboarding, biking, and water sports. The Austrian Alps provide a stunning backdrop for these adventures.
Historical Sites: Upper Austria boasts a rich history, with historic sites such as Hohenwerfen Castle, the Mauthausen Memorial, and St. Florian Monastery attracting history enthusiasts and curious travelers.
Culinary Delights: Upper Austria is known for its delicious cuisine, which includes traditional Austrian dishes like schnitzel, strudel, and various regional specialties. The region’s culinary offerings are a treat for food lovers.
Thermal Spas: The area is home to several thermal spas and wellness centers, making it a popular destination for relaxation and rejuvenation.
Salzkammergut: The picturesque Salzkammergut region, with its stunning lakes and charming villages, is another gem that makes Upper Austria famous.

Here are the top highlights:
Hallstatt: This UNESCO World Heritage-listed village is a postcard-perfect destination with its charming streets, picturesque houses, and stunning lakeside setting. Don’t forget to take the funicular to the “Skywalk” for a panoramic view of Hallstatt and the surrounding mountains.
Linz: As the capital of Upper Austria, Linz offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and modernity. Explore the impressive Linz Castle, stroll through the charming old town, and visit the contemporary Lentos Art Museum.
Lake Wolfgangsee: One of the most beautiful lakes in Austria, Lake Wolfgangsee is surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery. Take a boat trip on the lake or hike along the shores to enjoy the tranquil ambiance.
Salzburg: Although not in Upper Austria, Salzburg is easily accessible and worth a visit. Explore the birthplace of Mozart, visit the iconic Hohensalzburg Fortress, and immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical and cultural heritage.
Dachstein Caves: Explore the fascinating underground world of the Dachstein Caves, where intricate ice formations and rock structures create a magical spectacle.
Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave: Located near Werfen, this is the largest ice cave in the world. Venture into the icy depths to witness its incredible natural formations.
Gmunden and Lake Traunsee: Discover the picturesque town of Gmunden on the shores of Lake Traunsee. Admire the Ort Castle and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade.
Salzkammergut Region: This stunning region encompasses numerous lakes, including Hallstätter See and Attersee. Explore the picturesque villages and scenic landscapes that have inspired artists for centuries.
Mauthausen Memorial: While emotionally challenging, the Mauthausen Memorial is an important historical site, serving as a reminder of the tragic events that took place during World War II.
Upper Austrian Open-Air Museums: Visit open-air museums like the Freilichtmuseum Sumerauerhof and Freilichtmuseum Petting Zoo to learn about the region’s rural heritage and traditional way of life.

Here are some fantastic things to do to make the most of a sunny day:
Visit Lake Wolfgangsee: Head to Lake Wolfgangsee, one of the most stunning lakes in the region. Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the lake’s shores, rent a boat or paddleboard, and soak in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. You can also take a relaxing boat cruise to explore the lake and its charming villages.
Hike in the Austrian Alps: Take advantage of the sunny weather and go hiking in the Austrian Alps. There are numerous hiking trails suited for various fitness levels, offering spectacular vistas of the mountains and valleys. The Postalm region, known as the “largest alpine pasture in Austria,” is a great place for picturesque hikes.
Explore Hallstatt: Visit the fairytale-like village of Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through the charming streets, visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine, take a boat ride on the lake, and hike up to the “Skywalk” for a breathtaking view of the village and the Hallstätter See.
Enjoy Watersports: If you’re near a lake, consider indulging in some watersports like swimming, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Many lakes in Upper Austria have designated swimming areas and water sports rental facilities.
Visit Gmunden and its Lakeside Castle: Explore the picturesque town of Gmunden located on the shores of Lake Traunsee. Admire the impressive Ort Castle, take a walk along the lakeside promenade, and treat yourself to some local delicacies at lakeside cafes.
Cycle along the Danube: Rent a bike and cycle along the scenic Danube River. The Danube Cycle Path offers well-marked routes, passing through picturesque villages, lush landscapes, and historic sites.
Relax in Thermal Spas: Upper Austria is known for its thermal spas. Spend a sunny day unwinding in one of the region’s relaxing thermal baths or wellness centers.
Visit Open-Air Museums: Explore open-air museums like the Freilichtmuseum Sumerauerhof in Haibach or the Freilichtmuseum Petting Zoo in Bad Schallerbach. These museums provide a glimpse into the region’s rural heritage and traditions.
Take a Scenic Train Ride: Hop on a scenic train ride like the Salzkammergutbahn, which offers picturesque views of the Salzkammergut region.
Picnic in the Countryside: Pack a picnic with some local delicacies and find a scenic spot in the countryside to enjoy a relaxing day outdoors

Each season offers a unique charm and a variety of activities to enjoy.
Spring (March to May): Spring in Upper Austria is a wonderful time to visit, especially for nature enthusiasts. The landscapes come alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery. The temperatures are mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and exploring the picturesque towns and villages. Spring also sees fewer crowds compared to the peak summer season.
Summer (June to August): Summer is the high tourist season in Upper Austria due to the warm weather and school vacations. It’s an excellent time for outdoor activities, such as swimming in the lakes, boating, and enjoying festivals and events that take place during this season. Keep in mind that popular tourist spots may get crowded, so plan your visits accordingly.
Autumn (September to November): Autumn is a magical time to visit Upper Austria as the landscapes transform into a vibrant palette of colors. The weather is still pleasant, making it a great time for hiking, and the fall foliage provides breathtaking backdrops for photography. It’s also the harvest season, and you can taste delicious regional foods and wines during this time.
Winter (December to February): Winter in Upper Austria is perfect for those who enjoy snowy landscapes and winter sports. The region offers various ski resorts and opportunities for activities like skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The Christmas markets in cities like Linz and Salzburg add a festive touch to the winter experience. If you prefer a winter wonderland ambiance, this is the best time to visit.

Here are some cheap things to do in Upper Austria:
Hiking and Nature Walks: Upper Austria is blessed with stunning natural landscapes, including mountains, lakes, and forests. Enjoy free or low-cost hikes and nature walks, such as exploring the shores of the picturesque lakes or trekking through scenic trails in the Austrian Alps.
City Exploration: Many cities in Upper Austria, like Linz and Wels, have charming old towns that are perfect for strolling and admiring historical architecture. You can explore these areas on foot at no cost.
Visit Museums and Galleries: While some museums may charge an entrance fee, others offer free entry or have specific days with discounted tickets. Check the schedules and take advantage of these opportunities to learn about the region’s art, history, and culture.
Enjoy Local Markets: Visit local farmers’ markets or flea markets, where you can soak in the atmosphere and discover regional products, crafts, and tasty treats without spending much.
Picnics by the Lakes: Pack a picnic and head to one of the beautiful lakes in the region. Enjoy a relaxing day by the water, taking in the breathtaking scenery and enjoying the fresh air.
Participate in Festivals and Events: Keep an eye out for free or low-cost events and festivals happening during your visit. From music concerts to cultural celebrations, these gatherings offer a fantastic opportunity to experience the local culture.
Explore Churches and Cathedrals: Many churches and cathedrals in Upper Austria have awe-inspiring architecture and historical significance. Visit these religious sites, often free of charge, to admire their beauty and soak in the peaceful ambiance.
Bike Tours: Renting a bike can be an economical way to explore the region’s countryside and smaller towns at your own pace.
Scenic Drives: Take advantage of the stunning landscapes and embark on scenic drives through the countryside. It’s a cost-effective way to experience the beauty of Upper Austria.
Local Cuisine: Opt for local eateries, where you can sample authentic Austrian dishes at more reasonable prices compared to high-end restaurants.