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Day Trips from Linz

Day Trips from Linz

Linz The Danube Valley, Austria Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations

Steyr (approx. 30 km south): A picturesque medieval town located at the confluence of the Steyr and Enns rivers. It features a well-preserved historic Old Town and the iconic Bummerlhaus. Direct train connections from Linz Hauptbahnhof take approximately 25-35 minutes.

Freistadt (approx. 40 km north): A remarkably well-preserved medieval walled town that boasts a historic brewery. Its fortifications present a glimpse into the past. Accessible by bus connection or car.

More Destinations

  • Gmunden & Traunsee (approx. 60 km south): Lake resort town on Lake Traunsee. Orth Castle on an island. Train via Wels, or pleasant drive.
  • Mauthausen Memorial (approx. 30 km east): Former Nazi concentration camp, now a powerful memorial and museum.
  • Enns (approx. 20 km east): Austria's oldest city, with a historic town tower and basilica. Direct train from Linz Hauptbahnhof, 10-15 minutes.
  • Český Krumlov (Czech Republic - approx. 100 km north): UNESCO World Heritage town in South Bohemia, renowned for its castle and medieval architecture.

Organized Travel Considerations

Learn about travel options to your destinations.

Independent Travel

Independent travel provides freedom and is often more cost-effective for solo travelers or small groups. Austria's train and bus network makes independent travel easy for most destinations within the country.

Tips

  • Explore Austria's efficient train network.
  • Utilize local bus connections.
  • Consider driving for flexibility.

Organized Tours

Organized tours offer convenience for destinations requiring multiple transfers or cross-border travel, like Český Krumlov. They are also ideal for those who prefer guided commentary and a structured experience.

Benefits

  • Guided commentary for insights.
  • Structured, hassle-free travel.
  • Convenient for complex routes.

Itinerary and Time

Time for Visits

  • Most destinations: half-day or full-day.
  • Mauthausen: at least 3-4 hours on site.
  • Český Krumlov: typically a full day.

GetYourGuide

  • Discover tours and activities. Find day trips here
  • Plan experiences in advance.
  • Read reviews from other travelers.
  • Book flexible cancellations.

Popular Day Trip Transport

  • To Steyr:Train (25-35 min)
  • To Freistadt:Bus/Car
  • To Gmunden/Traunsee:Train via Wels/Car
  • To Mauthausen:Bus/Car
  • To Enns:Train (10-15 min)
  • To Český Krumlov:Shuttle Bus
  • Organized tours:Convenience
  • Independent travel:Flexibility

Local Expertise

Some local tour operators may specialize in tours to specific sites like Mauthausen.

Natural Escapes

The areas surrounding Linz present opportunities for immersion in stunning natural landscapes and protected areas.

Kalkalpen National Park

Austria's largest forested area and an UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its ancient beech forests. `fa-car` or `fa-bus` needed.

Danube Floodplains

Parts of the Danube valley near Linz retain natural floodplain characteristics, presenting a glimpse into this unique ecosystem.

Scenic Danube Valley

The entire Danube Valley surrounding Linz has scenic views, especially from elevated points like Pöstlingberg.

Hiking Trails

Kalkalpen National Park has extensive hiking trails for various skill levels.

Activities

  • Explore diverse trails.
  • Wildlife observation.
  • Ancient beech forests.

Seasonal Beauty

Experience seasonal changes in the landscape.

Highlights

  • Spring blossoms (April/May).
  • Summer vibrancy.
  • Autumn foliage.

Natural Wonders & Activities

Kalkalpen National Park:Hiking, UNESCO site
Danube Valley:Scenic views
Pöstlingberg:Panoramic views
Spring:Blossoming landscapes
River cruises:Relaxing views
Cycling paths:Outdoor activity

Discover Local Nature

  • Explore the rolling hills and serene river environment that form a calming backdrop to the city.

Cultural Excursions

Extend your cultural journey beyond Linz to discover more of Austria's rich heritage.

Melk Abbey

A stunning Baroque Benedictine abbey, considered a highlight of the Wachau Valley. Its grand architecture and comprehensive museum make it a compelling visit.

Access

  • Accessible by train.
  • Via Danube river cruise.
  • Explore Baroque art.

Krems a der Donau

A historic town in the Wachau Valley, renowned for its wine production and charming old town. It is a good stop for wine enthusiasts.

Attractions

  • Wine tasting.
  • Historic architecture.
  • Local cuisine.

Rural Villages

The "Mostviertel" region, located south of Linz, is known for its cider production.

Experience

  • Visit traditional "Mostheuriger."
  • Sample local ciders.
  • Enjoy regional dishes.

Pilgrimage Sites

Discover sites offering spiritual significance and impressive views.

Pöstlingberg Basilica

  • Local pilgrimage destination.
  • Impressive views.
  • Accessible via Pöstlingbergbahn.

Beyond Linz's Walls

Explore Austria's cultural landscape.

Wachau Valley Wines

Experience world-renowned wines in the Wachau Valley.

Mostviertel Cider

Taste traditional cider at local taverns in the Mostviertel.

Baroque Grandeur

Marvel at the architecture of Melk Abbey.

Cultural Immersion

These excursions enrich your understanding of Austria's diverse heritage.

Multi-Day Extensions

Consider extending your trip from Linz to explore other major Austrian cities or continue along the Danube.

Top Cities to Visit

1

Vienna

Austria's capital, approximately 1.5-2 hours by train from Linz.

2

Salzburg

Birthplace of Mozart, approximately 1.5 hours by train from Linz. Famous for Baroque architecture.

3

Passau

"City of Three Rivers" in Germany, 1 hour by train from Linz.

Logical Next Destinations

  • Danube River Cruise (Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest).
  • Alpine Regions (hiking/skiing).
  • Imperial Cities Route (Linz, Salzburg, Vienna, possibly Budapest).
  • Danube Route (Passau, Linz, Wachau Valley, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest).
  • G Adventures for ethical tours.
  • GetYourGuide for experiences.

Transportation Connections

  • Excellent ÖBB Railjet services.
  • Regular train services to Passau.
  • Direct shuttle buses for cross-border travel.
  • Scenic river cruises.
  • Well-maintained roads for car travel.
  • Find more tours

Extended Travel Options

River Cruises

Relaxing journeys along the Danube to major European cities.

Alpine Adventures

Head south to the Austrian Alps for hiking or skiing.

City Combinations

Combine Linz with visits to other iconic cities like Vienna or Salzburg.

Seamless Travel

Austria's well-connected transport network supports varied multi-day itineraries.