Explore Linz: The Charming Danube River City in Austria

Viking Pride at the Dock in Linz, Austria

Linz, the provincial capital of Upper Austria, stands as the country’s third largest city. While notable for its industrialization, the old town center, situated near the charming Danube River, maintains a splendid preservation of Baroque architecture, quaint courtyards, and tidy, narrow streets. Additionally, Linz is renowned for its delicious Linzer Torte and as the birthplace of Mozart’s Symphony No.36, famously known as the “Linz Symphony.”

Interestingly, Adolph Hitler spent a significant part of his childhood in Linz, aspiring to elevate it to one of the five “Führer Cities” of the Third Reich. Fortunately, most of these ambitions remained unrealized. Nevertheless, Linz embraces its artistic heritage, having been designated the European Capital of Culture in 2009. Cultural enthusiasts can explore a variety of museums and theaters, including the Lentos Art Museum, the Ars Electronica Center, and the Bruckner Concert Hall.

Visiting Linz is made easy as Danube River ships frequently dock near the old town, allowing for exploration via foot or tram.

Linz, Austria Skyline

Linz, Austria Skyline
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Linz, Austria Skyline.

Linz – Main City Square – Hauptplatz

Linz - Main City Square - Hauptplatz
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Linz – Main City Square – Hauptplatz.

The Hauptplatz serves as the heart of Linz, boasting ample outdoor cafes and bars while being surrounded by restored architecture and boutique shops.

Trinity Column in the Linz Main Square

Trinity Column in the Linz Main Square
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Trinity Column in the Linz Main Square.

Honoring victims of the plague, the Trinity Column stands as a monument of gratitude, acknowledging protection from the disease in Linz.

Tourist Tram in Linz, Austria

Tourist Tram in Linz, Austria
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Tourist Tram in Linz, Austria.

With an excellent public transit network, tourists can conveniently explore Linz via tram, bus, or on foot.

Interior of Linz Cathedral

Interior of Linz Cathedral
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Interior of Linz Cathedral.

Landhaus – Linz Provincial Government State House Entrance to Courtyard

Landhaus - Linz Provincial Government State House Entrance to Courtyard
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Landhaus – Linz Provincial Government State House Entrance to Courtyard.

Upon entering the courtyard of the Landhaus, visitors will notice a coat of arms above the gateway. This significant building serves as the Linz Provincial Government State House.

Linz Landhaus Tower – State House in Linz, Austria

Linz Landhaus Tower - State House in Linz, Austria
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Linz Landhaus Tower – State House in Linz, Austria.

Outdoor Dining in Linz, Austria

Outdoor Dining in Linz, Austria
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Outdoor Dining in Linz, Austria.

Venturing away from the bustling main square, visitors will discover numerous cozy bars and cafes hidden within the narrow streets and serene courtyards of Linz.

Ars Electronica Center in Linz, Austria

Ars Electronica Center in Linz, Austria
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Ars Electronica Center in Linz, Austria.

The Ars Electronica Center showcases a variety of technologies and interactive media art, making it a fascinating stop for visitors focused on contemporary digital experiences.

Brucknerhaus in Linz – Anton Bruckner Concert Theater

Brucknerhaus in Linz - Anton Bruckner Concert Theater
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Brucknerhaus in Linz – Anton Bruckner Concert Theater.

Named after Anton Bruckner, who served as the cathedral organist in Linz from 1855 to 1868, Brucknerhaus is a prominent concert hall, showcasing remarkable performances.

Lentos Museum of Modern Art in Linz, Austria

Lentos Museum of Modern Art in Linz, Austria
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Lentos Museum of Modern Art in Linz, Austria.

Opened in 2003, the Lentos Museum hosts an impressive collection of modern art, elegantly located along the banks of the Danube River near the historic town center.

Pöstlingberg Church Overlooks the Danube and Linz, Austria

Pöstlingberg Church Overlooks the Danube and Linz, Austria
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Pöstlingberg Church Overlooks the Danube and Linz, Austria.

Erected on a high hill, Pöstlingberg Church offers stunning panoramic views of the Danube River and Linz. Visitors can reach the church via a charming tram and train journey from downtown Linz.

Pöstlingberg in Linz, Austria

Pöstlingberg in Linz, Austria
Pöstlingberg Church Offers Great Views of the Danube and Linz Pöstlingberg in Linz, Austria.

For those seeking adventure, the steep Pöstlingbergbahn mountain tram provides an exhilarating experience, while a visit can be complemented by a stop at the nearby zoo.

Danube River Cruise Ships at the Dock in Linz, Austria

Danube River Cruise Ships at the Dock in Linz, Austria
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture Danube River Cruise Ships at the Dock in Linz, Austria.

The picturesque Danube River borders the old city center of Linz, enabling cruise passengers to easily navigate and discover the city’s historical charm on foot.

View of Downtown Linz from the Banks of the Danube

View of Downtown Linz from the Banks of the Danube
Linz Is Austria’s Third Largest City and 2009 European Capital of Culture View of Downtown Linz from the Banks of the Danube.

The banks of the Danube provide a stunning perspective of downtown Linz, perfect for leisurely strolls and photographs.

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