Discover sun-soaked Burgenland, Austria’s easternmost region, where rolling vineyards meet the tranquil shores of Neusiedler See, Europe’s largest steppe lake. Whether you’re sipping local wines, cycling along the water, or relaxing in thermal spas, Burgenland promises a perfect retreat for nature lovers and slow travelers.
What to Love
Known for its gentle hills, endless vineyards, and the serene Neusiedler See, Central Europe’s largest steppe lake.
With 300 days of sunshine and a mild Pannonian climate, it's one of Austria's premier wine regions.
Explore the natural beauty of the area, featuring several nature reserves, including the Neusiedler See – Seewinkel National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Strong Hungarian influences shape the region's history, culture, and cuisine, which is evident in the local dining scene.
Top Highlights of Burgenland
Wide horizons, gentle waves – discover the charm of Burgenland
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Lake Neusiedl
Podersdorf am See, Burgenland, Austria
The Neusiedler See – shallow, vast, and full of character – lies between the gentle Burgenland and the expansive plains of Hungary. With its dense reed belt and mild Pannonian climate, the lake provides the perfect setting for sailors, cyclists, and nature lovers. In 2001, the cultural landscape of Fertő/Neusiedler See was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
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Familypark
Burgenland, Austria
In Austria's largest amusement park, you can expect a total of 31 attractions spread over 145,000 m², divided into four themed areas: Adventure Castle, Fairy Tale Forest, Adventure Island, and Farm. What started in 1968 as a small fairy tale forest has developed over the decades into a versatile family park, which has been part of the French Compagnie des Alpes since 2019. Here, you'll find everything from cozy carousels to the Beaver Castle - Austria's largest white-water ride with a 17-meter drop. While the mascot Filippo welcomes the little visitors, the park also features a petting zoo with goats, ponies, and donkeys.
Popular photo spot in southern Burgenland
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Podersdorf Lighthouse
Podersdorf am See, Burgenland, Austria
The lighthouse on the eastern shore of Lake Neusiedl is a charming landmark that enchants many visitors with its red-and-white color scheme and picturesque location. Originally built to guide ship traffic, it is now a popular meeting point for sunbathers, photographers, and those seeking tranquility. It is also the southernmost lighthouse in the entire German-speaking region.
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Esterházy Palace
Eisenstadt, Burgenland, Austria
In the Austrian town of Eisenstadt stands the magnificent Esterházy Palace, which has its roots in a Gothic castle from the 13th century. Owned by the Esterházy family since 1622, the estate was initially transformed into a Baroque palace and took on its current neoclassical form in the early 19th century.
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Forchtenstein Castle
Forchtenstein, Burgenland, Austria
High above the Wulka Valley stands the impressive Forchtenstein Castle, one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Austria. Originally built in the early 14th century, the castle was taken over by Nikolaus Esterházy in 1622 and expanded into a powerful fortress that served as an armory and treasury for the family.
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Dorfmuseum Mönchhof
Mönchhof, Burgenland, Austria
In the Burgenland village of Mönchhof, you can explore a fascinating open-air museum that authentically depicts the lives of farmers and craftsmen from 1890 to the 1960s with around 35 historical buildings. Run by Christine and Josef Haubenwallner, the museum features a typical village complete with a school, cinema, post office, and workshops, while also documenting significant historical events: the original border post from Andau serves as a reminder of the Hungarian crisis in 1956, and a left-behind Trabant tells the story of the East German escape movement in 1989.
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Burg Lockenhaus
Lockenhaus, Burgenland, Austria
High above the Geschriebenstein-Írottkő Nature Park stands the mighty Lockenhaus Castle, with its oldest parts - the keep and the ring wall - dating back to the early 13th century. In the two-aisled Gothic knight's hall and the castle chapel, featuring the oldest fortress frescoes in Burgenland, you can experience the fascinating history of this former Templar castle up close.
Discover Austria's only steppe
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National Park Neusiedler See-Seewinkel
Apetlon, Burgenland, Austria
Nestled between the eastern edge of the Alps and the Pannonian Plain lies Austria's only steppe national park - a rare mosaic of salt pans, meadows, and wetlands. This UNESCO World Heritage Site fascinates nature lovers with its diverse wildlife, including rare bird species like great bustards and spoonbills.
Under the Open Sky: Opera Like You’ve Never Experienced It
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St. Margarethen Opera Summer Festival
Burgenland, Austria
The Opera Festival at the St. Margarethen Quarry transports you to one of Europe’s most breathtaking natural settings. Set against the towering rock walls of the former quarry, the open-air stage offers an unparalleled atmosphere under the stars.
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Seefestspiele Mörbisch
Mörbisch am See, Burgenland, Austria
On an impressive floating stage measuring 42 x 20 meters, you can experience operettas and musicals every summer since 1957 against the stunning backdrop of Lake Neusiedl. Built on hundreds of stilts, this lakeside stage, designed by architect Ferry Windberger, now accommodates over 6,000 spectators and has grown from just six performances to more than 30 each season.
With Destimondo you can easily plan your stops, see travel times, schedule arrival dates, and save all the fabulous attractions you wish to visit.
Best Activities
Wine Tasting: Burgenland’s vineyards, especially known for reds like Blaufränkisch, invite you to sip and savor. Many offer guided tours with tastings.
Lake Neusiedl: Perfect for sailing, windsurfing, or simply cycling along its scenic shores. This shallow steppe lake offers wide skies and open spaces for relaxed exploration.
Esterházy Palace: A Baroque masterpiece in Eisenstadt. Once home to the Esterházy family, it’s now a cultural treasure showcasing opulent rooms and regional history.
Neusiedler See – Seewinkel National Park: A haven for nature lovers. Wander or bike through diverse landscapes, or grab your binoculars for some top-notch birdwatching.
Thermal Spas: Unwind in Burgenland’s wellness retreats, with the thermal spa in Lutzmannsburg being a popular option.
Forchtenstein Castle: This medieval fortress showcases an impressive collection of weapons, armor, and art.
Cultural Festivals: Burgenland comes alive with music. Don’t miss the Haydn Festival in Eisenstadt or the Opera Festival in St. Margarethen for a taste of classical splendor.
Travel Information
Best Time to Visit
Burgenland's Pannonian climate brings hot, dry summers, especially in the north and central regions, with up to 2,000 hours of sunshine each year. The best time to visit is May to September, with pleasant temperatures between 20°C and 27°C and little rainfall—ideal for cycling, hiking, sailing, or swimming.
In spring and fall, particularly in April and October, temperatures range from 17°C to 22°C.
While winters are cold, they remain mild, with average temperatures between 1°C and 5°C.
The main difference between the north and south of Burgenland is rainfall. The south gets up to 650 mm annually, much more than the sunnier north.
Getting to Burgenland
By Car
Burgenland is easy to reach by car. For northern or central Burgenland, the best route is via Vienna (A1, A21, A3, or A4). If you're heading to the southern region, drive from Graz via the A9 or A2.
By Train or Bus
There are regular connections from Vienna and Graz. If you're coming from further away, you'll likely pass through Vienna, Graz, or Bratislava. From Graz, you can catch the Südburgenlandbus.
Some accommodations offer pickup services, so it's worth asking when you book.
By Plane
For international visitors, the nearest airports are Vienna, Graz, and Bratislava. From there, it's easy to continue your journey by rental car, train, or bus.
Regional Discounts
If you're looking to explore Burgenland and save money, the Burgenland Card is a great option. It’s free when you stay at least one night in any of the 550+ participating hotels or guesthouses. The card offers discounts at around 180 attractions, with some even being completely free.
