Have you ever found a city that feels like a perfectly kept secret? Linz is exactly that. While most travelers crowd into larger cities, people in the know are discovering that Linz is where old history meets a high-tech future.
We will break down the 12 best things to do in Linz, and show you how to experience this hidden gem with the perfect balance of premium comfort and easy, practical planning.
Planning a Last Minute Trip to Linz?
🎟️ Here are the top things to do in Linz to make the most of your time:
- Ride the historic Pöstlingbergbahn and explore the Old Town.
- Take a boat trip on the Danube and see Linz from the riverside.
- See the city through a local’s eyes on a Private Walking Tour.
12 Best Things to Do in Linz
I have picked out the top 12 spots that are truly worth your time. These attractions are the highlights of any great Linz travel guide.
1. Pöstlingbergbahn
If there is one thing you simply must do, it is a ride on the Pöstlingbergbahn. This isn’t just a regular train or a city tram. It is a bright yellow and green mountain railway that has been part of the city since 1898.
The Pöstlingbergbahn holds a world record for being one of the steepest railways on the planet. Think of it as a slow moving elevator that takes you from the heart of the city straight into the clouds.
The journey starts right at the main square. As the train begins to climb, the noise of the city fades away and is replaced by green trees and quiet gardens. It feels like you are traveling back in time.
Once you reach the summit of the Pöstlingberg hill, the reward is a panoramic view that is truly second to none. On a clear day, you can see the entire valley and even the snow capped peaks of the Alps in the distance.
2. Ars Electronica Center
The Ars Electronica Center sits right on the bank of the Danube and looks like a giant, glowing glass cube when the sun goes down. People often call it the “Museum of the Future,” and it is easy to see why.
This place is like a hands-on laboratory where you can play with robots, see how 3D printing works, and learn about the tech that is changing our world.
The real star of the show is an experience called Deep Space 8K. Imagine walking into a massive room with giant screens on the wall and the floor that show images in crystal clear detail.
It is like having a crystal ball that lets you fly through the stars or dive into the deep ocean. such a great example of why Linz is a UNESCO City of Media Arts.
3. Danube River Cruise
After you spend a few hours walking through the city, your feet might need a break. There is no better way to relax than by hopping on a boat and heading out onto the water.
The Danube River is like a big blue road that flows right through the heart of Linz. Seeing the city from the deck of a boat is a real treat. It gives you a look at the skyline that you just cannot get from the sidewalk.
You get to see the modern glass buildings on one side and the green hills on the other. It feels very special to sit back and relax while the famous landmarks slowly pass you by.
4. Mariendom: Austria’s Largest Cathedral
Even if you have seen many big buildings, the Mariendom will truly amaze you. It is a massive stone masterpiece that is the largest church in all of Austria. To give you an idea of how big it is, you could fit 20,000 people inside at the same time.
Walking through the front doors feels like stepping into a giant, quiet stone forest right in the middle of the city.
The best part of the cathedral is the wall of windows. They are made of beautiful, colorful glass that looks like glowing paintings. When the sun hits them just right, the whole floor turns into a rainbow of colors.
The Mariendom is a top pick for any Linz travel guide because it shows how much the city loves its deep history. It is a very calm and beautiful way to spend an hour during your trip. Visiting this spot is a real game-changer for your travel photos because the light inside is perfect.
5. Mural Harbor Gallery
If you think art only lives inside gold frames in a quiet museum, Mural Harbor will change your mind. This is one of the coolest parts of the city because it is one of Europe’s biggest outdoor galleries.
Imagine walking through an area with huge warehouse walls that are covered in bright and beautiful paintings. These are not small drawings. Some are so big that they cover the entire side of a five-story building!
This area is located in the industrial port of the city. It shows how Linz turned a busy working area into a creative space for artists from all over the world.
This is a great choice for your Linz travel guide because it feels so modern and fresh. It is a real game-changer for your trip because it shows you a side of the city that most people miss.
Traveling on a budget? Check out our full guide to free things to do in Linz.
6. Linz Musiktheater
If you love music or theater, you are in for a real treat. The Musiktheater am Volksgarten is one of the most modern opera houses in all of Europe. Even if you are not a huge fan of opera, this building is a masterpiece that you should see. It looks very sleek and high quality from the outside, but the inside is where the magic really happens.
The sound inside the theater is perfect. It does not matter if you are sitting in the front row or way in the back, you will hear every single note clearly. It is a premium experience that feels very sophisticated. They show everything from classic operas to modern Broadway musicals. It is a great way to spend an evening if you want a night out that feels a bit special.
I suggest checking for tickets well before you arrive. This is one of the most popular things to do in Linz, and the best shows can sell out quickly. It is a very simple way to add some high end culture to your trip. Even just walking into the lobby feels like you are entering a world of luxury.
7. The Original Linzer Torte
After you spend time walking and exploring, you will probably be ready for a delicious treat. You cannot leave the city without trying the famous Linzer Torte. This cake is very special because it is widely known as the oldest cake recipe in the whole world. It is a sweet mix of nuts, spices, and jam that people have loved for hundreds of years.
The best place to try a slice is at the K&K Hofbäckerei Jindrak. This bakery is a local legend and feels very high quality. Sitting in their traditional cafe with a warm cup of coffee and a piece of cake is a total game-changer for your afternoon. It is a very simple way to feel like a local and enjoy a bit of luxury at the same time.
So this Linzer Torte should be on your list of the top things to taste in Linz. Some people even take a class to learn how to bake the cake themselves. It is a very fun and hands-on way to learn about the culture.
8. Schlossmuseum Linz
If you like the idea of visiting a castle that looks out over the whole city, the Schlossmuseum is exactly what you need. It sits high on a hill overlooking the Danube river. This building is a very interesting mix of the old world and the new world. One part is a historic stone castle that is hundreds of years old. The other part is a modern glass wing that was added recently. It is a great example of how this city respects its past but loves the future.
Inside the museum, you will find a huge collection of art and history. It is a high quality space where you can see everything from old paintings to items from the iron age. The exhibits are very well organized, which makes walking through them a piece of cake.
The best part of visiting the Schlossmuseum is the view from the castle walls. You can look down at the red roofs of the old town and see the river flowing past. The view is truly impressive and is a total game-changer for your travel photos.
9. Landstraße: Shop Like a Local on Austria’s Most Famous Street
If you are in the mood for some retail therapy, Landstraße is exactly where you need to be. It is actually the second largest shopping street in the whole country. The best part is that most of it is a pedestrian zone. This means you do not have to worry about cars or traffic while you look at the beautiful window displays. It stretches all the way from the main square to the park, making it a perfect spot for a long, relaxing walk.
You will find a really nice mix of shops here. There are famous luxury brands that feel very premium and high quality. At the same time, you can find small local boutiques that sell unique items. The Landstrasse is a great place to pick up a special gift or just enjoy some window shopping.
And I would also recommend taking a break at one of the cafes on the side streets. It is a very simple way to see how the locals live and enjoy the atmosphere.
10. Voestalpine Stahlwelt: A High-Tech Journey into Steel
You might think that visiting a steel factory sounds like a dull way to spend your afternoon. However, the Voestalpine Stahlwelt is far from a boring field trip. This place is a high-tech center that looks like it belongs on a movie set. Huge chrome spheres hang from the ceiling and neon lights guide you through the exhibits. It is a very premium and shiny space that shows how steel is part of almost everything we use.
The best part of this experience is taking a bus tour deep into the actual heart of the factory. You get to see the massive blast furnaces up close and watch how molten metal is handled. Seeing the fire and the scale of the machines is a real eye-opener. It is the largest steel plant in the country and it feels like you are getting a look under the hood of the entire city. It is a very impressive sight that most travelers never get to see.
This experience is a total game-changer for any Linz travel guide because it turns an industrial site into a world-class attraction.
11. Hauptplatz and Old Town: The Heart and Soul of the City
The Hauptplatz is the beating heart of the city, and it is one of the largest squares in Europe. In the very center stands the Trinity Column. This tall white statue is made of marble and looks a bit like a giant, fancy wedding cake made of stone. It was built hundreds of years ago to celebrate the city surviving a plague, and it is still a major landmark today.
Just a few steps away from the wide square, you will find the Old Town, where the streets are narrow and paved with cobblestones. The houses are painted in soft colors like pink, yellow, and light blue. Walking through these alleys feels like stepping into a picture book from a long time ago.
I suggest visiting this area in the morning when the light is soft and the streets are quiet. It is a very simple way to get some great photos without crowds of people in the background. You can find a table at a nice café and watch the city wake up with a cup of coffee. This is the real deal for anyone who wants to see the authentic side of the city.
12. OK Rooftop Walk
If you want to feel like you are on top of the world, you have to find the OK Rooftop Walk. This is a very special spot that many travelers miss because it is tucked away high above the pavement. It is located at the OK Center for Contemporary Art. During certain times of the year, they open up a path that lets you actually walk across the roofs of several buildings in the city center.
Walking on the rooftops is a high-quality experience that feels like a real adventure. You get to walk across wooden bridges and platforms that are high above the busy shops and traffic. It gives you a bird’s eye view of the city that is truly second to none. You can look down at the people below and see the giant church spires right in front of you. It is a very simple way to get some of the best fresh air in the city without leaving the downtown area.
Even when the big art festivals are not running, the area around the OK Center is the real deal for anyone who loves modern vibes. It is a great place to see creative art and enjoy a drink with a fantastic view. This spot is head and shoulders above other viewing platforms because it feels so secret and exclusive. For any good Linz travel guide, this is the perfect way to wrap up your list of things to do in Linz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Linz Austria worth visiting in 2026?
Linz is absolutely worth a visit for travelers who want a high-quality experience without the massive crowds of larger cities. It is a hidden gem that offers a perfect mix of modern art, beautiful history, and premium hotels.
How many days should I spend in Linz?
You can see the main highlights in 2 days, but staying for 3 or 4 days can give you enough time to enjoy a relaxing Danube cruise and explore the museums at your own speed.
What is the best way to get from Vienna to Linz?
The most comfortable and fastest way to travel from Vienna to Linz is by train. The high-speed Railjet takes only about an hour and 15 minutes to reach the city center.
Where can I find the most authentic Linzer Torte?
You should head straight to the Jindrak bakery in the Old Town. They are the experts at making this famous cake and have been doing it for generations. It is a must-do for any food lover visiting the city.
When is the best time of year to visit Linz Austria?
Late spring and early autumn are the best times for outdoor activities like river cruises and walking tours. The weather is mild and the parks are beautiful. However, visiting in December is also a great choice if you want to see the famous Christmas markets.
Final Thoughts on Your Linz Visit
Linz is one of those rare cities that manages to feel like a cozy village and a high-tech capital all at the same time. Whether you are riding the historic yellow train up the mountain or standing in front of a giant digital screen at the museum of the future, you are going to feel like you have found something truly special. It is a city that respects its long history but is not afraid to try new things, and that makes it a perfect spot for travelers who want a trip that is a bit different from the usual path.
Planning a high-quality trip here is very easy because the city is so well-organized and easy to navigate. You do not have to fight through thousands of other tourists to see the best sights, which is perfect for anyone who wants a relaxing and premium vacation. From the first bite of a sweet cake to the last view of the river from a rooftop, Linz is a place that really knows how to treat its visitors.
If you are still looking for more inspiration or want to dive even deeper into what makes this city so great, you should definitely check out my list of 50 reasons to visit Linz. For the food lovers who want the absolute best dining experiences the region has to offer, my look at the Michelin Guide for Austria is exactly what you need.