Mountains, lakes, horses, and adventure – Upper Austria offers endless experiences. Here are some ideas for your next vacation or just a short getaway.
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1. Salzkammergut: A Paradise of Mountains and Lakes
The
Salzkammergut region is one of the most beautiful areas in Austria and a true gem for nature lovers and those seeking relaxation. Crystal-clear lakes like
Wolfgangsee,
Traunsee, and
Hallstätter See are nestled among majestic mountains. But it’s not just the stunning scenery that captivates: the region is perfect for hiking, boat tours, and laid-back days by the water. Water sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy.
Tip: Take the cable car up to the 5fingers viewing platform for unforgettable panoramic views across the Salzkammergut.
2. Hallstatt – The Jewel of the Salzkammergut
Let’s linger a little longer in the Salzkammergut. Hallstatt is one of the most beautiful (and unfortunately most crowded) villages in Austria and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a history spanning over 7,000 years, Hallstatt is closely tied to the region’s rich salt mining heritage. You can visit the
oldest still-operating salt mine in the world, and explore archaeological finds from the early Hallstatt culture on the nearby salt mountain. For a thrill with a view,
don’t miss the Skywalk – a dramatic viewing platform that floats 360 meters above the lake and offers stunning vistas of the village and surrounding landscape.
Hallstatt is also a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Scenic trails lead to the waterfalls in the Echern Valley or follow the historic brine pipeline paths. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, enjoy a peaceful boat ride on Lake Hallstatt or wander through the narrow streets of the village, where traditional houses and centuries-old landmarks create a truly enchanting atmosphere.
3. Nature Adventures on Horseback
Upper Austria offers horse lovers an impressive variety of ways to explore nature from the saddle. Particularly popular are the expansive riding trails in the
Hausruckwald and on the
Mühlviertler Alm, which span hundreds of kilometers through dense forests and picturesque landscapes. The region is a true paradise for trail riders, with numerous riding stables offering guided tours and multi-day excursions. In the
Kalkalpen National Park, riders can gallop along designated paths through untouched nature and discover the region's rich biodiversity. Beginners are also well catered for, with many opportunities to learn to ride. Family-run stables like
Reitpark Gstöttner and
Pferdehof Koaser Minerl offer everything from riding lessons and pony rides to special riding camps for children.
Whether you're an experienced rider or a beginner, Upper Austria has the perfect horseback experience waiting for you amid stunning natural scenery.
4. St. Florian Monastery: Baroque Gem and Cultural Treasure
Architecture lovers should plan a visit to St. Florian Monastery, one of Austria’s largest and most magnificent baroque abbeys. Just a few kilometers from Linz, this impressive complex captivates visitors with its splendid basilica, vast baroque library, and elaborately painted frescoes. But St. Florian is more than just an architectural masterpiece: the world-renowned composer Anton Bruckner is buried here, and the abbey church is home to the famous Bruckner Organ, which continues to inspire music lovers from around the globe.
5. Schloss Ort in Gmunden: Romantic Lake Castle on the Traunsee
Rising from a small island in the middle of the Traunsee, the fairytale-like
Schloss Ort is a true gem. This picturesque water castle in
Gmunden is accessible via a long wooden bridge and offers one of the most beautiful photo spots in the region. With a history spanning over 1,000 years, the castle is not only an architectural treasure but also a popular wedding venue. However, it’s also well worth a visit for day-trippers: scenic walking paths around the castle invite you to relax and take in the lakeside atmosphere.
6. Hiking in the Kalkalpen National Park
If you love untouched nature, the
Kalkalpen National Park is an absolute must. With its dense forests, rugged cliffs, and crystal-clear mountain streams, the park offers a wide range of hiking trails for all skill levels. Whether you opt for a leisurely walk or a more challenging hike, the breathtaking views and rich wildlife will leave you in awe. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of one of the elusive
lynxes that call the park home.
Insider tip: Try the circular hike up the Großer Pyhrgas, one of the highest peaks in the region, for a spectacular panoramic view over the Kalkalpen.
7. Linz: City of Contrasts
The capital of Upper Austria,
Linz, blends tradition with innovation. The historic old town, home to the impressive
New Cathedral (Mariendom), exudes old-world charm, while the city is equally renowned as a hub for modern art and technology. At the
Lentos Art Museum, you'll find a rich collection of contemporary artworks, and the
Ars Electronica Center, also known as the "Museum of the Future," showcases cutting-edge innovations in digital art and technology.
8. Dachstein-Krippenstein: Cave Adventures and Panoramic Views
Dachstein-Krippenstein is the perfect destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike. Alongside breathtaking panoramic views over the Salzkammergut from the various viewing platforms, there are two fascinating cave systems waiting to be explored. The
Dachstein Giant Ice Cave captivates visitors with massive ice formations that exist year-round. In the
Mammoth Cave, one of the largest cave systems in the world, you can embark on a thrilling journey into the underground world of the Dachstein.
Tip: The cable car ride up to Krippenstein offers spectacular views — set aside a full day to explore the caves and summit at your leisure.
9. Culinary Highlights: Hearty Flavors of Upper Austria
Upper Austria is known not only for its natural beauty but also for its rich cuisine. Here, hearty and satisfying dishes are the norm—just what you need after a day spent in the mountains or by the lakes. A must-try traditional dish is
Bratl in der Rein—a juicy roast pork cooked in the oven and served with dumplings and sauerkraut. Don’t miss the variety of
dumpling dishes, ranging from savory meat-filled options to sweet fruit dumplings. Also typical of the region is the refreshing
Most, an apple or pear cider produced especially in the Mostviertel area.
