15 Things to Do in St Pölten: A Non-Touristy Side of Austria

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Most people, Austrians included, don’t think of St. Pölten when planning a trip. As the capital of Lower Austria, it’s often overlooked in favour of cities like Salzburg or Graz. Even I, as an Austrian, had never been until I set out to visit every state capital.

With no iconic sights, I didn’t expect much, but St. Pölten surprised me. On a sunny June day trip from Vienna, I wandered quiet squares with popcorn in hand, relaxed in a rooftop hammock, and admired hidden Art Nouveau gems.

It may not rival Austria’s bigger cities, but if you’re after an authentic, uncrowded destination near Vienna, St. Pölten is worth a look. Here’s what to do if you go.

1. Relax in a Hammock at the Flederhaus

The Flederhaus, a five-story wooden structure with open floors, netted balconies, and large white letters spelling "#VISITSTPOELTEN" near the rooftop, stands on a grassy hill under a blue sky. — Such a cool spot in St Pölten Austria

A person relaxes in a red-orange hammock on a wooden balcony at the Flederhaus, overlooking St. Pölten and distant mountains through a mesh safety railing. — Such a cool spot in St Pölten Austria

One of the most unique spots in St. Pölten is the Flederhaus, a five-story wooden structure filled with hammocks. It’s a bit outside the city center, but still just a short walk from the train station.

Each level has hammocks where you can relax and take a break, totally free and open to everyone. I especially loved lying in a top-floor hammock, enjoying the breeze, the quiet atmosphere and the view of St. Pölten in the distance.

2. Visit the Former Synagogue

The elegant white façade of the St. Pölten Synagogue, featuring arched windows, Hebrew inscriptions, and a dome-like roof with golden detailing above the entrance.

Interior of the St. Pölten Synagogue, showcasing a decorative vaulted ceiling, star-shaped window, and an exhibition of historical documents displayed in a glass case.

The former synagogue in St. Pölten is a beautifully restored and moving place to visit. On the first floor, you’ll find a small but thoughtful exhibition. While not everything is translated, there are English subtitles on informational videos.

I appreciated how the exhibition combines general information about Judaism with local history, particularly the Holocaust in St. Pölten. One especially emotional part shows video footage of survivor families reuniting in the city in 2016.

Sadly, there is no active Jewish community in St. Pölten today, which is why it remains a former synagogue.

3. Have Some Popcorn at Rathausplatz

A hand holds a paper bag of freshly popped popcorn on a charming pedestrian street in St. Pölten, with outdoor cafés, pastel buildings, and a church tower in the background.

A dramatic shot of the ornate Holy Trinity Column in St. Pölten’s main square, with intricate statues and a fountain at the base. The pink and white Rathaus (town hall) with a rainbow flag hangs in the background under a bright sky.

Rathausplatz is one of the most beautiful squares in St. Pölten, surrounded by the elegant town hall, the Baroque Church of the Holy Trinity (Franziskanerkirche), and the striking Trinity Column (Dreifaltigkeitssäule) in the center.

Right on the square, you’ll find Cinema Paradiso, a small art house cinema. Even if you don’t watch a film (most are dubbed), you can grab some popcorn there. I paid €3.20 for a small bag and enjoyed it while sitting on a bench in the square.

The cinema opens about 30 minutes before the first showing. There’s also a bar inside (cash only), but for popcorn you can pay by card or cash.

4. Look for Art Nouveau Architecture

A pastel yellow building with distinctive Art Nouveau architecture, featuring floral garlands, curved details, and a mural of a robed figure holding a ribbon. The ground floor houses watch and jewelry shops.

St. Pölten is often associated with its Baroque buildings, but it also has a few striking examples of Art Nouveau.

The standout is Stöhr Haus, just a short walk from the train station. This eye-catching building blends curving lines with floral motifs, and while it houses everyday shops, it’s the exterior that draws the attention.

If you’re a fan of architecture, it’s worth pausing here for a closer look.

5. Visit St. Pölten Cathedral

The ornate interior of St. Pölten Cathedral, with towering marble columns, baroque chandeliers, and an intricately painted vaulted ceiling. The altar is richly decorated, drawing the eye toward the end of the nave.

The exterior of St. Pölten Cathedral was under reconstruction when I visited, but honestly, the real beauty is inside.

Entry is free, and once you step through the doors, you’re greeted by stunning ceiling frescoes and multiple richly painted domed ceilings along the sides.

It’s a peaceful, impressive space, and a great example of the city’s Baroque heritage.

6. Relax at Alumnatsgarten (Franciscan Monastery Garden)

A tranquil garden courtyard with a circular stone fountain made of polished petrified wood, surrounded by neatly placed benches, trimmed trees, and historic buildings in the background.

I stumbled upon this lovely courtyard garden by chance. Hidden behind historic buildings, the Alumnatsgarten is a peaceful oasis filled with benches, flowers, and small fountains.

It’s a perfect place to take a break, especially on a warm summer day. Bring a snack, a book, or just enjoy the quiet atmosphere in this charming little spot.

7. Enjoy the View from Klangturm

A panoramic view of St. Pölten from the Klangturm observation deck, showing a skyline of church spires and modern buildings through glass windows with a labeled photo guide below.

Located in the modern part of St. Pölten, the Klangturm (Sound Tower) offers a free viewpoint over the city. While the view isn’t particularly spectacular, I still think it’s worth a quick stop if you love viewpoints like I do, it’s free after all.

There’s an elevator that takes you up to the 7th floor, where you’ll find the viewing platform. It’s a nice way to see St. Pölten from a different angle.

8. Shop at the Wochenmarkt am Domplatz

If you’re in town on a Thursday or Saturday morning, don’t miss the weekly market at Domplatz. While it wasn’t on during my visit, it’s said to be a great spot for fresh, local produce, snacks, and drinks.

It’s also a nice way to experience the local rhythm of life in St. Pölten. Just make sure to visit early in the day, like most traditional markets, it wraps up around lunchtime.

9. Have Some Vegan Food

A wooden platter with a vegan burger, potato wedges, and barbecue dip served alongside a glass of orange juice at a café terrace. In the background, people chat at a high table under an orange umbrella.

St. Pölten doesn’t have any fully vegan restaurants (you’ll have to head to Vienna for that!), but you can still find some decent options around town.

I had a solid vegan burger at the Café in Palais Wellenstein, nothing fancy, but a great lunch while exploring the city.

Two other places that are often recommended for vegan-friendly food are Café Emmi and Mandas to go. I didn’t have time to try them myself, but maybe worth checking out.

10. See a Play at Festspielhaus

The sleek, contemporary glass architecture of the Festspielhaus St. Pölten, featuring a bold curved structure and metallic facade under dramatic clouds.

If you’re a fan of theatre, dance, or classical music, seeing a show at Festspielhaus St. Pölten is a must. It’s known for its modern architecture and diverse program that includes international dance companies, orchestras, and local productions.

Even if you don’t catch a performance, the building itself is interesting to see. But if you’re planning a visit to St Pölten, it’s definitely worth checking the schedule to see what’s on.

11. Visit a Museum

St. Pölten has some surprisingly interesting museums for a city of its size, here are some of the best museums depending on your interests.

St. Pölten City Museum (Stadtmuseum St. Pölten)

A gallery room inside St. Pölten’s Stadtmuseum, displaying classic and modern art, including a nude portrait and abstract works. The space features wooden floors and black exhibit walls.

This small museum features a permanent Art Nouveau exhibition with works by Ernst Stöhr and Ferdinand Andri.

There are also two temporary exhibitions, only one had some English descriptions during my visit, while the others were in German only.

Diocesan Museum (Museum am Dom St. Pölten)

Lavish interior of the St. Pölten Diocesan Museum, with golden sculptures, intricately carved wood cabinets, and vibrant ceiling frescoes. The space combines religious art and baroque elegance. — My favourite part of the Diocesan Museum

While church museums often feel repetitive, I really enjoyed the historical library here and the atmospheric WWII bomb shelter in the cellar. Be aware that all information is only available in German.

Museum of Lower Austria (Museum Niederösterreich)

A modern building with an eye-catching curved metal roof and vertical support beams in front of the Museum Niederösterreich. A vintage yellow-and-white VW bus is parked near the glass entrance under a partly cloudy sky.

This large museum has two parts, House of Nature and House of History, accessible with a single ticket.

The nature section is interactive and kid-friendly but includes live animals like fish and insects, which I personally found upsetting.

The history section is more engaging, though only partly translated into English. If you’re truly interested, I recommend joining a guided tour in English.

12. Admire the Landtagsschiff and Street Art

The Lower Austrian state parliament building, shaped like a ship, stretches over the water with sleek, modern lines. In the foreground, pink and yellow flowers add a splash of color.

A piece of street art on a glass panel showing a stenciled rat offering a red flower to a human silhouette, mimicking a romantic gesture. The artwork is mounted on a granite wall near the pavement.

At the edge of the government district, you’ll spot the Landtagsschiff, a striking modern building that houses parts of the regional parliament. While you can’t visit the inside, its unique architecture is worth a stop.

Just next to it, I found a street art piece I really liked. I couldn’t find any information about it, but clearly the city appreciates it too, it’s protected behind a glass panel. The style reminded me of the street art you’d find in Budapest.

13. Go for a Swim at Lake Viehofner

People relax and sunbathe along a long wooden pier extending into the peaceful Viehofner See. The sky is partly cloudy with beams of light shining through, and a tree line frames the lake.

If you’re visiting St. Pölten in summer, a refreshing swim at Viehofner See is a perfect way to cool down. The lake is located just outside the city centre and is easy to reach by public transport or bike.

Take a local bus (multiple lines stop at the lake, check the VOR website to find the best connection). You can buy your ticket directly from the driver. Alternatively, rent a bike with Nextbike and enjoy a scenic ride along the Traisen river path.

Once at the lake, head to the east side where you’ll find a wooden pier for swimming, a boat rental, and a lakeside restaurant, perfect for a relaxing break.

14. Climb the Aussichtsturm Viehofner See

A spiral staircase wraps around a tall wooden observation tower in a lush park area near Viehofner See. The structure is surrounded by trees and set against a bright, cloud-speckled sky.

A serene view of Viehofner See from an elevated vantage point, with green forest lining the water and soft clouds rolling over the horizon.

If you love viewpoints, don’t miss the viewing tower (Aussichtsturm) at Viehofner See. It’s at the northern end of the lake where people go swimming.

The wooden tower offers views over the surrounding greenery and lake, though the view itself isn’t dramatic, it’s more about the peaceful atmosphere.

A small heads-up: the tower sways slightly in the wind, which can feel a bit unsettling, but it’s completely safe.

15. Take a Day Trip to Melk

Majestic Melk Abbey perched atop a rocky hill, its striking yellow baroque towers rising above the lush greenery and the Danube River below.

Just a short train ride from St. Pölten, the town of Melk is famous for its incredible Benedictine abbey overlooking the Danube. It’s one of Austria’s most iconic sights and makes for an excellent half-day trip.

You can stroll through the old town, visit the Melk Abbey (Stift Melk), and enjoy scenic views over the Wachau Valley. Trains run frequently and take just 20 minutes, perfect if you want to explore more of Lower Austria during your visit.

16. Take a Day Trip to Mariazell

The Mariazell Basilica stands tall under a blue sky, framed by vibrant pink and red flowers in the foreground, with flags of Austria and the EU adding a festive touch.

Another rewarding day trip from St. Pölten is the pilgrimage town of Mariazell. Best known for the Mariazell Basilica, Austria’s most important Catholic shrine, this small alpine town draws over a million visitors each year.

Even if you’re not religious, it’s worth the trip for the beautiful mountain setting, traditional gingerbread (Lebkuchen), and scenic hikes.

You can reach Mariazell either by regional rail or on the scenic Mariazellerbahn line known as “Die Himmelstreppe” (The Stairway to Heaven).

Best Hotels in St. Pölten

While St. Pölten is easy to explore in a day, you might still want to spend the night, especially if you’re arriving late or planning to take it slow. Just keep in mind: St. Pölten isn’t a major tourist destination, so accommodation options are limited.

Here are a few solid picks:

Hotel-Gasthof Graf
Located right next to the train station, this hotel is simple but clean and very convenient. You can drop your bags and start exploring, the city centre is just a 5-minute walk away. Check availability here
Apartment at Rathausplatz
This apartment is right on Rathausplatz, the beautiful main square. If you want to stay in the heart of the old town, this is a fantastic choice. Check availability here
Apartment with terrace
Just off Domplatz on a cute side street, this stylish apartment offers a quiet setting and modern interior design. Check availability here

Final Thoughts

St. Pölten might not top many travel lists, but if you’re curious about authentic Austrian cities beyond the usual tourist trail, it’s a surprisingly enjoyable place for a slow-paced day trip.

From peaceful gardens and lake views to unexpected architectural gems, it’s a chance to explore the real everyday Austria.

If you’re curious to explore more of this beautiful region, be sure to check out my other posts about Lower Austria, from lakeside getaways to historic castles, there’s so much more just outside Vienna waiting to be discovered.