Austrian Veganderlust contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. For more info, see the Disclosure Policy.
19 Cool Things to Do in Linz Austria That Might Surprise You
Linz isn’t usually at the top of Austrian travel lists. For years, I skipped it too, despite growing up just a two-hour drive away. Its reputation as an industrial city made it seem less appealing, but that old reputation doesn’t do it justice.
Sure, you can still spot factories in the distance, but the city centre tells a different story. When I finally visited Linz on a three-day girls’ trip, I was genuinely surprised by how youthful, artistic, and ideal for a laid-back summer visit the city is.
From Austria’s largest cathedral (a total surprise!) to indie shops, riverfront hangouts, and vibrant festivals, Linz offers a completely different vibe from the more polished tourist cities.
If you’re curious about the best things to do in Linz Austria, here’s a mix of the must-see attractions and lesser-known gems I discovered, plus a few vegan-friendly tips.
1. Explore Austria’s Largest Church
You might assume Vienna’s Stephansdom is the biggest church in Austria, I know I did. But Linz holds the title with the Mariendom, also known as the New Cathedral.
From the outside, its Neo-Gothic design is impressive, but it’s the sheer size that really stands out. Once inside, you get a real sense of how vast it is. This impressive church alone makes Linz worth visiting.
Good to know:
- Entry is free
- The crypt is only open daily from 4–6 pm. I missed it, so time your visit if you want to go down there
🏛️ Book your Linz Old Town walking tour and learn about the city’s past!
2. Ride the Pöstlingbergbahn for Panoramic Views
If you love scenic views, hop on the Pöstlingbergbahn, a historic tram that climbs up Linz’s local mountain. It departs right from the Hauptplatz (main square), but heads-up, you’ll need a special ticket, not the standard public transport one.
The ride itself is part of the experience, winding up through steep streets with glimpses of the city below. At the top, you’ll find a panoramic viewing platform with some of the best views over Linz and the Danube.
While you’re up there:
- There’s a small church at the summit, free to enter
- A dragon-themed cave train ride (more for kids, that’s why I skipped it)
- A circular walking route (not that spectacular but might as well when you’re there as it’s not that long)
3. Try Vegan Linzertorte at Konditorei Jindrak
You can’t visit Linz without trying a slice of Linzertorte, after all, it’s named after the city. Traditionally it’s not vegan. But at Konditorei Jindrak on Herrenstraße 22, you’ll find a vegan version that doesn’t disappoint.
The café is one of the most traditional in town, and while the interior feels classic, the fact that they offer a vegan option shows they’re keeping up with the times. It’s a great stop if you’re craving something sweet.
Tip: Check out my post about vegan food in Linz for more recommendations.
4. Shop Local on Herrenstraße
While most visitors head straight to Landstraße, the big shopping street lined with international chains, I found Herrenstraße much more interesting. This quieter side street is home to independent shops, many of them sustainable and local.
You’ll find everything from small fashion boutiques to handmade design stores. It feels like the kind of place where you could actually meet the owner behind the counter, and there’s a much more relaxed atmosphere than on the main strip.
If you’re into unique finds and supporting small businesses, Herrenstraße is definitely worth strolling down.
5. Relax at the Donaulände Park
Right by the Danube, Donaulände is a long riverside park that’s perfect for a laid-back break. Whether you want to stretch out in the grass, read a book, or just watch the river drift by, this is one of the best spots in Linz to slow down.
When I visited, there were deck chairs scattered around, making it easy to just plop down and soak up the atmosphere. It’s a local favourite, especially in summer, and you’ll often see people having picnics, reading a book, or doing yoga or exercise.
6. Have a Drink at Sandburg Beach Bar
If the weather’s on your side, Sandburg is the place to be. This laid-back beach bar sits right on the Donaulände, and it’s one of the best spots in Linz to grab a drink and unwind.
There’s sand underfoot, loungers, and a relaxed atmosphere that makes you feel like you’re on holiday, even if you’re just there for an hour. They serve drinks and the views of the Danube are lovely at sunset.
Heads-up: Sandburg is weather-dependent. It’s closed on rainy or cold days, so either check online before going or just stroll past to see if it’s open, it’s that central.
7. Visit the Ars Electronica Center
Nicknamed the “Museum of the Future,” the Ars Electronica Center is one of Linz’s most famous attractions. It blends art, science, and technology in ways that are definitely unusual.
To be honest, I found the layout a bit disorganised. Some floors feel more like conference venues than museum. That said, it’s still worth visiting, especially if you’re into tech, AI, or digital art.
Bonus tip: If you’re in Linz in early September, don’t miss the Ars Electronica Festival. The whole city turns into an experimental playground for art and technology, and it’s one of the most exciting events of the year.
8. Dive Into Modern Art
If you’re into modern art, Linz has two museums that are worth checking out. Both are a good choice for a rainy day or if you just want to see another side of the city’s cultural scene:
- Lentos Kunstmuseum: This sleek riverside museum focuses on modern and contemporary art. You’ll find works by big names like Klimt and Schiele, but also interesting international exhibitions that rotate throughout the year.
- OK Linz (Oberösterreichisches Kulturquartier): Located in a more urban, experimental space, this centre is all about contemporary Austrian art. Exhibits here tend to be a bit more edgy and change regularly, so it’s always a surprise.
9. Wander the Hauptplatz (Main Square)
The Hauptplatz is the heart of Linz and a great place to start your day. It’s lined with beautiful facades, cafes, and the impressive Trinity Column right in the centre.
You’ll also find several things here that make it worth a stop:
- The Linz letters, perfect for a photo
- The tourist train, which I skipped since Linz is very walkable
- The Pöstlingbergbahn tram sets off from here
10. Take a Boat Tour on the Danube
One of the most relaxing ways to see Linz is from the water. A Danube boat tour gives you a completely different perspective of the city, from peaceful riverside parks and striking modern buildings like the Ars Electronica Center.
Most tours are around an hour long, making it an easy addition to your itinerary. It’s especially beautiful in the late afternoon when the light softens and the river glows.
🚤 Book your Linz boat tour here. It’s a scenic and low-effort way to experience the city
11. Discover the Landhaus Courtyard
Just a short stroll from the Hauptplatz, the Landhaus is an easy-to-miss gem tucked behind a historic gate. This Renaissance building houses the Upper Austrian parliament, but the real highlight is its inner courtyard.
Inside, you’ll find arcades, blooming flowers, and a calm that feels miles away from the city buzz. It’s a peaceful spot to take a breather and snap a few photos.
Out front, don’t miss the historic bridge structure, it adds to the charm and makes the whole area feel like a step back in time.
12. Walk Through Schlosspark
Schlosspark is a small but scenic park on a hillside next to the Schlossmuseum.
It’s a peaceful spot with panoramic views over the Danube and the rooftops of Linz. There are a few benches if you want to sit and enjoy the view, and the surrounding greenery makes it a lovely place for a quiet stroll, especially in summer.
Even if you don’t go inside the museum, it’s worth wandering through the park just for the outlook and the relaxed atmosphere.
13. Explore the Repurposed Tobacco Factory
One of the coolest surprises in Linz was stumbling across the Tabakfabrik, an old tobacco factory that’s been turned into a creative hub.
I went there specifically to check out Vresh, a sustainable fashion brand with really cool clothes. But the whole area is pretty cool. Inside the industrial complex, you’ll find independent shops, cafes, co-working spaces, and cultural events.
It’s a great example of how Linz is transforming its industrial heritage into something fresh and community-focused. Definitely feels like a local spot rather than a touristy one.
14. Enjoy Culture at Brucknerhaus or Landestheater
If you’re in the mood for some culture, Linz has two popular venues:
- Brucknerhaus: Right by the river, this modern concert hall hosts everything from classical music to jazz and international performances. The acoustics are great, and the setting makes for a lovely evening.
- Landestheater Linz: A theatre with a mix of opera, drama, ballet, and musicals. Some show are even performed in English, but they sell out fast, so make sure to check the schedule before your visit.
15. Visit Mural Harbor
If you’re into street art, Mural Harbor is one of the most unique attractions in Linz. It’s home to over 300 large-scale murals, painted on the industrial buildings along the city’s harbour, and it’s one of the largest graffiti galleries in Europe.
BUT you can only visit on a guided tour. The area is part of the working port, so it’s not accessible to the public otherwise.
Tours are available by boat or on foot, and they include insights into the artists and the stories behind the murals. Some tours even let you try doing graffiti yourself. Here you can check the official website for available tours.
16. Tour the Voestalpine Steel Factory
For something completely different, you can tour the Voestalpine Stahlwelt, a visitor centre and guided tour experience at one of Austria’s largest steel factories.
I didn’t go myself, during my studies I actually worked in a similar factory and felt like I’d seen enough molten metal for a lifetime. But if you’ve never been inside a working steel plant, it might be fascinating.
Just make sure to book in advance, as tours don’t run every day and spots can be limited.
17. Stroll Through the Botanical Garden
If you’re in the mood for a quiet break surrounded by greenery, the Botanical Garden of Linz is a hidden gem. Located on the edge of the city, it’s home to over 10,000 plant species, including exotic orchids, alpine plants, and a cactus house.
The garden is beautifully laid out with walking paths, ponds, and benches, perfect for a slow afternoon. It’s especially lovely in spring and summer, but the greenhouses make it worth visiting year-round.
Tip: Bring some snacks and make it a low-key picnic stop.
18. Check Out a Local Festival
Linz really comes alive in summer thanks to its vibrant festival scene. If your trip lines up with one of the major events, it’s absolutely worth adjusting your plans to join in.
Here are some of the most notable festivals in Linz:
- Pflasterspektakel (July): massive street performance festival with musicians, acrobats and comedians from all over the world. I highly recommend this festival, I visited it and it was incredible, there were artists on every street corner.
- Ars Electronica Festival (September): for art and technology lovers
- Crossing Europe Film Festival (spring): independent European cinema
- Klangwolke (September/October): an open-air multimedia spectacle with light, sound, and dance
19. Take a Day Trip from Linz
Linz is a great base for exploring Upper Austria, and there are several interesting places you can visit in a day. Here are a few options to consider:
- Mauthausen Memorial: A deeply moving visit to one of Austria’s most infamous concentration camps. I went there on a school trip, and standing inside a gas chamber was something I’ll never forget. It’s a difficult experience, but an important one.
- Enns: Often called Austria’s oldest town, with a medieval tower and a charming old town centre.
- St. Florian Monastery: A beautiful Baroque monastery with guided tours and an impressive library.
- Gmunden and Traunsee Lake: Perfect for a scenic lake day with paddle boarding, swimming, and views of the mountains.
- Český Krumlov: A fairytale town just across the Czech border, known for its winding cobblestone streets and stunning castle views. The easiest way to get there is by private tour.
Map of the Attractions in Linz
Where to Stay in Linz
I stayed at the River View Apartment, which was very central and budget-friendly. Just be aware, there are no blinds, so it gets quite bright at night, and the bathroom walls don’t go up to the ceiling, which means very little privacy.
Here are two more centrally located hotels that are just slightly more expensive but might offer a more relaxed stay in hindsight:
- Stadtoase Kolping Hotel: A reliable and well-rated hotel in walking distance to all the main attractions. Good value for money and comfortable rooms.
- Motel One Linz-Hauptplatz: A modern chain hotel right on the main square. Stylish design and excellent location, ideal if you want everything at your doorstep.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Linz Austria
There’s definitely more to see in Linz than I expected. From the largest church in Austria to indie shops, riverside parks, and cool museums, the city packs in a lot without ever feeling overwhelming.
If you have the time, I recommend spending at least two days in Linz to really soak it all in. But if you’re short on time, I’ve put together a one day in Linz itinerary to help you make the most of a quick visit and not miss any of the highlights.
Pin it for later:
