The short answer: In Linz, see the Main Square with its Trinity Column, the New Cathedral, the Ars Electronica Center on the Danube and the Pöstlingberg hill. One day covers the highlights, two days give time for museums and the Danube surroundings. Linz is at its best from May to September, when life moves to the riverbanks.
Top Sights in Linz
The capital of Upper Austria has transformed itself from a steel and industrial city into a cultural hub. Linz was European Capital of Culture in 2009 and has been a UNESCO City of Media Arts since 2014.
Main Square and Old Town
The Hauptplatz is one of the largest historic squares in Austria, with the Baroque Trinity Column at its center. The old town lanes hide Renaissance arcaded courtyards, the Landhaus where astronomer Johannes Kepler taught, and Linz Castle.
New Cathedral (Mariendom)
The neo-Gothic Mariendom is Austria's largest church by capacity. Look out for its vivid stained glass windows, including the Linz Window that shows scenes from the city's history.
The Cultural Mile on the Danube
Along the riverfront you will find the Ars Electronica Center, the Lentos Art Museum and the Brucknerhaus concert hall, named after composer Anton Bruckner. At night the facades of Ars Electronica and Lentos glow in changing colors.
Pöstlingberg
The Pöstlingberg railway is one of the steepest adhesion railways in the world. It climbs to a pilgrimage basilica and the Grottenbahn, a fairy tale ride that kids love. From the top you overlook the whole city and the Danube valley.
How Much Time Do You Need?
- Half a day: old town, Main Square and cathedral, perfect for a river cruise shore excursion.
- 1 day: add Pöstlingberg and Ars Electronica.
- 2 days: museums, the Tabakfabrik, a Danube bike ride or a trip to Enns or Mauthausen.
Best Time to Visit
From May to September the riverbanks are lively, and September brings the Ars Electronica Festival and the open air Klangwolke sound spectacle. During Advent several Christmas markets open, for example on the Main Square and in the Volksgarten. Many Danube river cruise ships call at Linz from spring to fall.
Practical Tips
- Go to the river at night: When the Ars Electronica and Lentos facades light up, the riverfront is at its most atmospheric. The view from the Nibelungen Bridge is worth it.
- Ride up, walk down: The path down from the Pöstlingberg runs through greenery with views over the city.
- Try something sweet: A slice of Linzer Torte in a traditional pastry shop is a must.
- Look for street art: Around the Tabakfabrik and the harbor you will find the large murals of the Mural Harbor project.
Explore with a Guide
Linz has a lot to tell if you know where to look: Kepler, Mozart's Linz Symphony, industrial history and the city's reinvention. Licensed guides connect the dots for you:
- Linz Altstadt & Ars Electronica
- Landgang Linz: Altstadt und Pöstlingberg
- Pöstlingberg für Familien
- Linz mit dem Rad: Kulturmeile von Ars Electronica bis Tabakfabrik
- Linz im Nationalsozialismus
Linz FAQ
Is Linz worth visiting?
Yes. Linz is far less crowded than Vienna or Salzburg, yet offers a charming old town, modern art and a lively setting on the Danube.
How do I get up the Pöstlingberg?
Take the Pöstlingberg railway directly from the Main Square, no transfer needed. Keen walkers can also hike up.
What is a Linzer Torte?
The Linzer Torte is considered one of the oldest known cake recipes in the world: a nutty, spiced shortcrust filled with red currant jam and topped with a lattice.
Can I see Linz on a river cruise stop?
Yes. The cruise docks are close to downtown. With a guide you can see the old town and the Pöstlingberg in two to three hours.
Plan Your Linz Tour
Discover Linz with a licensed local guide: book your tour or contact us about groups and special requests. More information at Linz Tourism.