Carinthia, Austria’s southernmost gem, is a nature lover's haven. Framed by emerald lakes and lush green peaks, this region draws outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a slower pace. With its gentle climate and endless possibilities for exploration, Carinthia offers the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, no matter the season.
Why You’ll Love It
- Untamed Nature: Picture-perfect landscapes, from soaring mountains to pristine lakes and rolling meadows. Whether you're into paddleboarding, hiking, or skiing, there's an activity to match your mood.
- Easy-Going Climate: Warm summers and mild winters, kissed by Mediterranean breezes, make it a year-round destination.
- Carinthia’s culture runs deep, with festivals and age-old traditions lighting up its villages and towns.
Top Highlights of Carinthia
Must-Do Experiences
- Wörthersee: Carinthia’s sparkling centerpiece. Dive into crystal-clear waters, sail, or try stand-up paddleboarding. The area is well-loved, so expect upscale restaurants and hotels to match the vibe.
- Hochosterwitz Castle: A fortress perched high on a rock, offering medieval history and panoramic views that’ll take your breath away.
- Grossglockner High Alpine Road: One of the most scenic routes in the Alps, winding its way up to Austria’s highest peak with jaw-dropping vistas around every curve.
- Nockberge National Park: If solitude and wide-open spaces are your thing, the rolling hills and quiet trails of this park will steal your heart. A true escape into nature.
- Minimundus in Klagenfurt: Travel the world in a few hours with mini versions of iconic landmarks. Quirky, fun, and a hit with families.
- Pyramidenkogel Tower: Climb the world’s tallest wooden observation tower and be rewarded with sweeping views of Carinthia’s lake-filled landscape. It’s pure magic.
- Winter at Nassfeld: A dream for snow lovers. Nassfeld is one of Austria’s biggest ski resorts, with a variety of slopes for every level.
- Chill at Lake Millstätter See: A laid-back spot where you can paddle, float, or just kick back and soak in the peaceful scenery.
- Gailtaler Alpine Cheese: For foodies, this is a must. Sample the region’s famous alpine cheese and dive into its rustic, time-honored production process.
Travel Tips
When to Go
Carinthia’s climate is a sweet mix, influenced by the Alps to the north and the Adriatic to the south. Warm summers, crisp autumns, and cold, snowy winters make it an all-season destination.
Summer (June to August)
Sunny days and lake dips – Carinthia shines in summer. Perfect for swimming in lakes like Wörthersee, with temperatures between 20–28°C. It’s called the Austrian Riviera for a reason. But August can be rainy, so pack accordingly.
Spring and Autumn
The best seasons for hiking and cycling. With cooler days (10–20°C), it’s a quieter time to explore without the summer crowds.
Winter (December to February)
Snow transforms Carinthia into a winter wonderland. Perfect for skiing, especially in the Alpine regions, with daytime temps hovering just above freezing.
How to Get There
By Car
Take the scenic route! From Germany, follow the A10 Tauern Autobahn via Salzburg. From Italy, travel via Ljubljana and the B91 Loiblpass Road, or head through Udine on the A2 Southern Autobahn. Don’t forget your vignette for highway tolls.
By Train
Carinthia’s charm is easily reachable by train. The ÖBB runs direct lines to Klagenfurt, Villach, and Spittal an der Drau, with discounted fares if you book early. Night trains with sleeper options make long-distance travel a breeze, and the local train network is well connected.
For convenience, Carinthia also offers a station shuttle service to take you from 19 regional stations directly to your accommodation.
By Bus
Regular services from Postbus and Flixbus connect Carinthia with other Austrian cities and neighboring countries – a budget-friendly way to travel.
By Plane
Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) is your go-to for flights into the region, with regular connections from European cities. For more options, both Salzburg and Ljubljana airports are about two hours away.
