Immerse Yourself in the Cultural City of Linz! Top 15 Historical and Artistic Attractions

What comes to mind when you hear about Linz, Austria's third-largest city? Some may think of the famous chocolate company bearing the city's name, others may recall Mozart's Linz Symphony, or perhaps even recognize it as the birthplace of the Linzer Torte, considered the world's oldest cake.

Many people may dream of visiting one day! This time, we’ll introduce Linz’s must-see attractions all at once. Whether you’re already planning a trip or simply dreaming of visiting in the future, let’s take a look at the places you absolutely should not miss in Linz!

1. New Cathedral

One of Linz's most famous attractions is the "New Cathedral," constructed in 1855. Located in the southwestern part of Linz's Old Town, it is the largest and most sophisticated architectural masterpiece among the city's many churches.

The highlight of the New Cathedral is undoubtedly its magnificent stained glass. These stained glass windows, known as the "Linz Windows," depict the history of the town of Linz. Interestingly, the cathedral stands at a height of 134 meters, but during construction, complaints were raised that it might surpass Vienna's St. Stephen's Cathedral, leading to a reduction in its height.

The cathedral's beautiful and sacred atmosphere offers a calming experience, even for non-Christians. To refresh your spirit and fully enjoy your Linz tour, be sure to visit the New Cathedral.

2. Old Cathedral (Alter Dom)

Next on the list is the "Old Cathedral," which serves as a counterpart to the New Cathedral. Officially named the "Church of St. Ignatius," this Jesuit church was built in 1678 in the Baroque style. The church is particularly striking with its two towers rising side by side into the sky. It is also famous for being where the renowned 19th-century composer Anton Bruckner served as an organist from 1855 to 1868.

Linz offers easy access to both the New and Old Cathedrals. Comparing the two while reflecting on Linz’s rich history is highly recommended. The city's stunning churches are a must-see for anyone exploring Linz.

3. Mauthausen Concentration Camp

In addition to Linz's beautiful attractions, visitors often make their way to a somber yet significant site: the Mauthausen Concentration Camp, located southeast of Linz.

Established in the early stages of World War II by the Nazi SS, this was one of the Nazi concentration camps where prisoners faced the harshest conditions. In 1943 alone, approximately 15,000 people were imprisoned here, and 7,058 of them perished, underscoring the extreme cruelty of the camp. Today, it serves as a memorial site to preserve history, detailing the torture, human experimentation, and other atrocities that occurred within its walls.

While it may not be a destination suitable for everyone, the Mauthausen Memorial has been highly regarded by many visitors to Linz. It offers an opportunity to witness an undeniable chapter of history and reflect on its lessons.

4. State Government Building (Linzer Landhaus)

The next Linz attraction is the "State Government Building," a Renaissance-style structure built in the late 16th century. Its elegant design features white arches, repeating columns forming corridors, and a beautiful courtyard that exudes charm. The courtyard also includes a fountain, adding to its graceful atmosphere.

Given its sophisticated ambiance, it’s no surprise that this building once served as the Linz University. Currently, only the courtyard is open to the public, and visitors cannot enter the interior of the building. However, its tranquil setting, free from heavy crowds, makes it a hidden gem among Linz's attractions.

With so many sites to explore in Linz, consider visiting the State Government Building for a peaceful moment during your journey.

5. Main Square (Hauptplatz)

The "Main Square" is the heart of Linz's Old Town and a key landmark for any visit to the city. Surrounded by Baroque-style buildings, the square enhances the atmosphere of the city and offers a quintessentially European experience.

A must-see here is the marble "Holy Trinity Column" (Dreifaltigkeitssäule) located at the center of the square. Erected in 1723, it commemorates Linz's gratitude for overcoming struggles such as battles with the Ottoman Empire and the devastating plague that swept through Europe in the early 18th century. The square also houses Linz's tourist information center within the Town Hall, as well as the Linz Museum of Dental History.

As both a top sightseeing spot and a convenient landmark for exploring other attractions, the Main Square is a location you shouldn't miss.

6. Ars Electronica Center

Next is the "Ars Electronica Center"! For those unfamiliar, you might wonder what exactly this is. The Ars Electronica Center is a futuristic museum where visitors can experience Linz's cutting-edge media technology.

Ars Electronica began in 1979 as a festival of computer art, drawing attention from artists and technology experts worldwide. The center showcases art born from this festival, serving as an experiential art hub that explores the fusion of cutting-edge technology, art, and society to envision the "future." While it may seem complex, the center is staffed with guides who provide detailed explanations, making it accessible even for beginners.

This is a fantastic opportunity to step into the world of modern art. Whether you simply admire the exhibits or dive deeper into the experience, the Ars Electronica Center is a must-visit destination to add to your Linz itinerary.

7. Linz Castle Museum

Next is the "Linz Castle Museum." Linz Castle was established as a secondary residence for the Habsburg family, and during the reign of Frederick III as Holy Roman Emperor, Linz served as his residence for a time.

Today, the castle operates as a museum, officially named the Upper Austrian State Museum (Oberösterreichisches Landesmuseum). It also includes an art gallery, botanical exhibits, and more, making it a comprehensive museum. Visiting this former imperial residence to learn about Linz's history, art, and nature is a truly enchanting experience.

8. Lentos Art Museum

The Lentos Art Museum specializes in classic modern art and contemporary art, making it a must-see attraction in Linz. The building itself is strikingly beautiful and adds to its appeal as a top destination in the city.

Situated along the Danube River, the museum’s rectangular glass structure with a hollowed-out center creates an impressive and unique presence. The name “Lentos” comes from an old name for Linz, and the contrast between the museum's modern architecture and its traditional name creates a charming atmosphere. Inside, the museum houses numerous valuable artworks, including pieces by Gustav Klimt.

With its impressive collection, often referred to as encompassing all of Linz’s paintings, the Lentos Art Museum is perfect for anyone interested in exploring Linz’s art scene.

9. Linz Botanical Garden

Linz is a city abundant in greenery, and a visit to the Linz Botanical Garden is a great way to enjoy its natural beauty.

Located in the southwestern part of the city, the Linz Botanical Garden is considered one of the most beautifully arranged gardens in Europe. Spanning 4.2 hectares, it features around 10,000 species of plants. The garden is divided into five greenhouses, showcasing a diverse range of collections, including cacti and orchids.

After exploring Linz's architectural landmarks, museums, and art galleries, a change of pace with a visit to this top-class European botanical garden is a refreshing option.

10. St. Florian Monastery

Located about 13 kilometers southeast of Linz’s city center, the St. Florian Monastery has long attracted visitors. With numerous churches in Linz itself, what makes this monastery outside the city so popular?

The answer lies in its connection to the great 19th-century composer Anton Bruckner, who is buried here. Bruckner was once a member of the monastery's boys' choir, which led to this site being chosen as his final resting place. The monastery is named after Saint Florian, a Roman Empire-era saint. The site also contains remnants of Roman walls built in the 4th century, though the exact date of the current structure's construction remains unknown.

The St. Florian Monastery is a place steeped in history. While it’s a bit of a journey from the Linz city center, it is a must-visit for those with the time to explore this fascinating site.

11. Pöstlingberg Mountain Railway

While Linz is not located in Austria's well-known mountain tourism regions like Tyrol or Salzkammergut, it does feature a unique mountain railway: the
Pöstlingberg Railway, which ascends the northwestern part of the city.
The Pöstlingberg Railway is renowned as the steepest adhesion railway line in Europe. In 2008, it was connected to the city's tram network, making it very convenient for tourists. The refurbished interior features wooden seats, giving it a stylish and cozy ambiance. Watching the tram steadily climb the steep mountain slopes is an unusual and enjoyable sightseeing experience in itself.

At the summit, you’ll find the Pöstlingberg Pilgrimage Church and breathtaking views of Linz's cityscape and the Danube River. After exploring the city center, hop on the tram and take a quick excursion to this scenic mountain destination.

12. Brucknerhaus

The composer Anton Bruckner, frequently mentioned in Linz's notable landmarks, is an essential figure in understanding the city's cultural identity. To commemorate the 150th anniversary of his birth, the Brucknerhaus theater was constructed west of the Lentos Art Museum.

Built in 1974, the Brucknerhaus became a new symbol of Linz. Its elegant design features a curved structure with glass walls facing the Danube River. The main hall hosts the annual Bruckner Festival in the fall, a tradition that has included performances conducted by maestros like Herbert von Karajan.

Combining a visit to the Old Cathedral and St. Florian Monastery with a stop at the Brucknerhaus to trace Bruckner's legacy could make for an unforgettable journey.

13. Linz State Theater

The Linz State Theater boasts a history of over 200 years. In 2013, a new opera house (Musiktheater Linz) was opened, making it a theater with both a historic and modern presence—a highly recommended stop for tourists.

The newly built opera house, with its stunning modern exterior, reflects Linz's deep appreciation for the arts. Past performances have included productions by international directors, so checking the performance schedule before your visit is highly recommended.

Experience Linz's close connection to the performing arts firsthand—it's a stark contrast to the theater culture in other places.

14. Südbahnhof Market

One of the best ways to experience the authentic daily life of locals when traveling abroad is by visiting local markets. In Linz, the Südbahnhof Market is highly recommended.

This market, held every Saturday morning, is a classic "morning market." It offers everything from local produce and sweets to household items that residents use daily, making it an enjoyable experience even if you're just browsing. The official website also features beautiful photos, providing a glimpse of the market's offerings. The Südbahnhof Market is a great place to see the real lives of Linz's residents, so check your schedule and make a visit.

Note that the former Südbahnhof (South Station) now exists only as a building and is slightly removed from the current railway station, so plan accordingly.

15. Danube River Cruise

The final recommendation for sightseeing in Linz is a Danube River Cruise. The Danube River flows through the heart of Linz, with its banks serving as a relaxing spot for locals. Along the river, you can view the beautiful architecture highlighted earlier, making it the perfect way to wrap up your journey.

The cruise terminal is conveniently located near the Lentos Art Museum, making it easily accessible. The spacious boats offer the chance to enjoy coffee or beer while taking in the scenic views of the Danube River and the city of Linz.

◎ Summary

We’ve introduced 15 recommended attractions in Linz. As the 2009 European Capital of Culture, Linz is filled with incredibly appealing spots showcasing its rich arts and cultural heritage. From modern art to centuries-old cultural architecture, Linz offers a wide range of experiences that highlight its diverse cultural landscape.

To make the most of your visit, a little preparation on the art and culture of Linz can greatly enhance your trip. Find the attractions that resonate with your personal interests and make your Linz journey truly unforgettable.

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Immerse Yourself in the Cultural City of Linz! Top 15 Historical and Artistic Attractions