St. Pölten Old Town Highlights
A baroque town and Austria's youngest state capital
HighlightsNiederösterreich- Duration
- 1.5 hours
- Languages
- German, English
St. Pölten is regarded as Austria's oldest chartered town and is at the same time its youngest state capital. Your guide reveals its surprisingly baroque old town.
In Roman times the settlement of Aelium Cetium stood here, and in 1159 the town received a charter considered one of the oldest in Austria. Your guide explains how monastery, citizens and trade shaped St. Pölten and why it only became the capital of Lower Austria in 1986.
On Rathausplatz and Herrenplatz colourful façades show baroque splendour at its height. Many buildings bear the signature of Jakob Prandtauer, the master builder of Melk Abbey, who lived in St. Pölten. In the cathedral, with its lavish interior, and in the cloister the story of the former Augustinian monastery comes alive.
Finally you look at the modern government quarter. The tour is private and priced per group.
Highlights
- Rathausplatz with baroque façades
- Cathedral and Cathedral Square
- The legacy of master builder Jakob Prandtauer
- Herrenplatz and market life
- A look at the government quarter
The route
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1Rathausplatz
The centre with the town hall and Franciscan church.
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2Herrenplatz
A picturesque square with town houses and market.
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3Cathedral Square
A large square with Roman finds.
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4Cathedral
Baroque interior and the cloister of the former monastery.
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5Government quarter
Modern architecture on the Traisen river.
Who this tour is for
For culture lovers, baroque fans and guests travelling between Vienna and Melk.
Frequently asked questions
Are entrance fees included in the price?
The tour needs no tickets. Museum visits are possible on request but not included.
How easy is St. Pölten to reach?
By train St. Pölten is quickly reached from Vienna and Linz, and the station is close to the old town.
