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Things to Do in Linz

Things to Do in Linz

Linz The Danube Valley, Austria Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Linz offers varied outdoor exploration and nature enjoyment, from gentle walks to cycling paths.

Hiking & Water Sports

Hiking & Trekking

Pöstlingberg has well-marked trails, from easy walks for families to moderate ascents with rewarding views. Sections of the Danube Cycle Path are also suitable for walking or jogging, offering flat terrain and scenic river views.

Water Sports

Danube River Cruises offer a relaxed way to view the city from the water, often with audio guides. Stand-up Paddling (SUP) is popular on quieter sections of the Danube or nearby lakes like Pleschinger See. Canoeing and kayaking are also options, with equipment rentals often available from outfitters along the river.

Adventure Sports Note

Linz is not a main destination for high-adrenaline adventure sports like white-water rafting or bungee jumping. Your focus can be on the gentler outdoor activities available.

Cycling & Wildlife

  • Danube Cycle Path (Donauradweg - EuroVelo 6): One of Europe's most popular long-distance cycling routes, passing directly through Linz.
  • It features flat, well-maintained paths suitable for all skill levels. Many rental points are available in the city for your convenience.
  • Mountain Biking: While limited within the immediate city, mountain biking trails exist in the surrounding hills and forests outside Linz for those seeking more challenging terrain.
  • Wildlife Encounters: No specific wildlife safaris exist in Linz. However, birdwatching is possible along the Danube River, which attracts various bird species, especially during migration periods.

River Cruises

  • Sightseeing tours on the Danube offer a relaxed way to view the city.
  • Often include audio guides with historical and cultural context.
  • A unique perspective of Linz from the water.
  • Find options on GetYourGuide.

Stand-Up Paddling & Kayaking

  • Increasingly popular on quieter sections of the Danube.
  • Also enjoyed on nearby lakes like Pleschinger See during warmer months.
  • Rental facilities are often available.
  • A refreshing way to experience the waterways.

Pöstlingberg Hiking

  • Explore numerous well-marked hiking trails around the Pöstlingberg mountain.
  • Trails range from easy, leisurely walks to more moderate ascents.
  • Rewarding views of Linz and the Danube valley.
  • Information on specific trails is available at the base of the mountain.

Adventure Sport Advisory

Linz is not a main destination for high-adrenaline adventure sports like white-water rafting or bungee jumping. Plan your trip with a focus on the gentler outdoor activities that the city and its surroundings provide.

Cultural Immersion

Linz offers opportunities to immerse yourself in its cultural fabric.

Workshops & Classes

  • Occasional workshops at cultural institutions like Ars Electronica Center on topics like coding or digital art.
  • Local culinary schools may offer Austrian cooking classes. Inquire at tourist information for offerings.
  • Community-based tourism initiatives are limited, but local markets offer a glimpse into local life.
  • German language schools in Linz offer short-term courses for visitors interested in learning basic phrases.

Cultural Performances & Venues

Landestheater Linz

The State Theater of Linz has a wide repertoire, including opera, operetta, musicals, ballet, and drama.

Brucknerhaus Linz

A renowned concert hall, home to the Bruckner Orchester Linz. It hosts classical concerts, jazz performances, and world music events.

Posthof Linz

A contemporary cultural center. Posthof hosts a diverse program of pop, rock, electronic music, and alternative performances, often featuring international artists.

Linz Fest

Held in May, this multi-genre music and cultural festival brings energy to the city.

Pflasterspektakel

In July, an international street art and street theater festival transforms the city's public spaces.

Ars Electronica Festival

In September, a world-renowned festival for art, technology, and society, drawing international artists and thinkers. Find tickets on GetYourGuide.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation in Linz, whether at a city spa or a nearby natural escape.

Spa & Thermal Baths

  • Many upscale hotels in Linz feature spa facilities for their guests, sometimes accessible to non-guests for a fee.
  • Public thermal baths (Therme) are generally outside the city in nearby towns, like Bad Schallerbach, a short drive away.
  • No hot springs are directly in Linz. However, Bad Schallerbach, a popular thermal spa town, has extensive hot spring facilities and natural therapy.
  • This destination is suitable for a relaxing day trip, offering a complete wellness experience.

Yoga & Swimming

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

Local yoga studios in Linz offer drop-in classes. For dedicated yoga or meditation retreats, you typically need to look for options in more rural settings outside the city.

Beach & Pool Clubs

Pleschinger See, a popular swimming lake with recreational facilities, is just outside Linz. Public outdoor pools (Freibäder) and indoor pools (Hallenbäder) are operated by Linz AG, providing swimming and relaxation options within the city.

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices are not a prominent tourist offering in Linz. Focus on modern wellness facilities for your relaxation needs.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Live Music Venues

Brucknerhaus Linz and Posthof Linz host a wide range of musical genres. Stadtliebe, a local brewery, often features live music. Chelsea Pub Linz is known for its live music nights.

Theater & Performance Spaces

Landestheater Linz is the main venue for opera, ballet, and drama. Phönix Theater has independent and contemporary performances.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs concentrate in the city center, near the Old Town. Options range from mainstream clubs to smaller bars with DJs. The Old Town and Hauptplatz areas have many bars and pubs.

Shopping & Markets

Linz has a good mix of traditional markets, artisan crafts, and modern retail for your shopping interests.

Traditional Markets & Crafts

  • Südbahnhofmarkt: Excellent for fresh produce, regional delicacies, and experiencing a local atmosphere.
  • Artisan Workshops: Dedicated craft workshops are limited, but some galleries or small independent shops in the Old Town may sell locally made items and artisan crafts.
  • Souvenir Recommendations: Linzer Torte (edible), Linz-themed items (postcards, magnets), Austrian specialties (pumpkin seed oil, Mozartkugeln).
  • Look for unique souvenirs that display local artistry.

Luxury & Ethical Shopping

Luxury & Boutique Shopping

Main shopping areas are along Landstraße and in the side streets off Hauptplatz. You will find a mix of international brands and local boutiques offering fashion, jewelry, and specialty items.

Ethical Shopping Guidelines

Support local businesses and artisans when possible. Look for "Made in Austria" labels to confirm you are buying genuine local products. This practice supports the local economy.

Shipping & Customs Information

Standard EU customs rules apply. For non-EU visitors, inquire about VAT refunds (Tax-Free Shopping) for purchases over a certain amount. Keep your receipts and follow airport procedures.

Retail Therapy

Explore Landstraße for major brands and specialty shops, suitable for all your retail needs.

Edible Souvenirs

Bring home the famous Linzer Torte or other Austrian sweets as a tasty reminder of your trip.

Local Produce

Visit Südbahnhofmarkt for fresh, regional produce, cheeses, and meats for self-catering or culinary gifts.

Late-Night Entertainment

Casino Linz
  • Offers late-night entertainment with gaming tables and slot machines.
  • Often includes a bar or restaurant for a complete evening out.
  • Check their schedule for special events or themed nights.
Bar Districts
  • The Old Town (Altstadt) and areas around Hauptplatz offer a concentration of bars, pubs, and cafes.
  • Easily find a lively spot for an evening drink, often with varying music selections.
  • An ideal location for an informal pub crawl or simply enjoying the local atmosphere.

Seasonal Shopping Opportunities

During late November and December, Linz's Christmas Markets (Christkindlmärkte) at Hauptplatz and Volksgarten present festive shopping opportunities for unique gifts, crafts, and seasonal treats.

Activity Planning Summary

Active Exploration Highlights

  • Hiking & Cycling: Pöstlingberg trails, Danube Cycle Path. Equipment rentals are readily available.
  • Water Sports: Danube River cruises, stand-up paddling on quieter sections or lakes.
  • Wildlife: Birdwatching along the Danube. Specific safaris are not common.
  • Scenic Views: Pöstlingberg and Freinberg hills offer panoramic vistas.

Cultural Discovery Highlights

  • Workshops: Culinary classes or digital art at Ars Electronica Center.
  • Festivals: Linz Fest, Pflasterspektakel, Ars Electronica Festival, Klangwolke.
  • Performances: Landestheater, Brucknerhaus, Posthof for varied programs.
  • Shopping: Südbahnhofmarkt, Landstraße for traditional items to luxury goods.