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Winter in the capital of Upper Austria – that means snow, fun and sightseeing. Even if you’re not a big winter fan, you can still enjoy the cold season and discover new things. It all depends on how you spend your time. We’ll tell you how to get your money’s worth in Linz despite the cold and wet winter weather.
We’ll get straight to the outdoor activities. In Linz and Upper Austria you are right at the source. You don’t have to travel far to go on a wonderful hike in the snow-covered countryside. And there are two other points in favour: firstly, the fresh air helps to combat even the most stubborn winter blues. Secondly, walks are free of charge and therefore easy on the wallet at university. So why not take a walk around Lake Pichling or enjoy the view from the Giselawarte? Other excursion ideas: a hike to the Franz-Josefs-Warte or to the memorial to the horse-drawn railway.
Do you want to go faster and higher? Then get on your skis! You have a choice of large and small ski areas that can be visited in the course of a day trip from Linz. The Salzkammergut is also not far away, attracting skiing enthusiasts with slopes of all kinds. Those who like it more tranquil can enjoy the romantic winter landscape on cross-country skis. In the Mühlviertel there are enough cross-country trails with different levels of difficulty. One winter is not enough to discover them all.
One thing is clear: you don’t have to be a ski freak to enjoy the cold season. Alternatively, how about a round of tobogganing? For example on the Rosenhang or Pöstlingberg! Get out the toboggan, grab some other students and off you go! The fun is guaranteed.
If it’s snowing outside or the gloomy weather is getting on your nerves, a visit to the municipal pools in Donaustadt will help. Here you can swim, sauna and relax to your heart’s content. And to make sure you don’t get bored, Linz has several indoor pools: for example the Waldbad Hummelhof, the Parkbad or the Schwimmoase Biesenfeld.
The Parkbad not only invites you to relax in the water. In winter you can do all kinds of winter activities on the ice rink. These include ice skating and curling. And a special tip: once a month the artificial ice rink is transformed into a slippery disco. You should definitely buy your tickets in advance!
In 2009 Linz was crowned Capital of Culture – not without reason, we think! There’s plenty to see in the Upper Austrian capital in terms of music and art, and you’re right in the middle of it all. Others have to travel far to enjoy the programme of Linz’s stages. The world of museums is also known far beyond the borders of the province and enjoys great popularity. And the best thing about it: the famous Lentos Museum and the Ars Electronica are in the immediate vicinity of our MILESTONE student residence Linz Brucknerstudios – your modern home base in the middle of Linz.
Sea of lights and fir trees: at Christmas time the old town of Linz shines in a very special light. On a leisurely walk through the city, you’re virtually immersed in another world. The banks of the Danube also exude a unique charm in winter. And what is always part of winter and Christmas? That’s right! Delicious punch or mulled wine. These are not only available at the city Christmas markets, but you can also prepare them yourself and sip them on your walk.
If you’ve ever been there, you know that the beautiful, impressive grounds offer plenty of reasons for a visit at any time of year. In winter, for example, you can enjoy the pleasant climate of the tropical house. At the same time, you can learn more about the impressive giant water lilies or see everyday products like cocoa and coffee up close. The succulent house with its unique collection of cacti is also ideal for wet and particularly uncomfortable days.
Linz Zoo is open every day of the year. While summer tends to attract visitors to the outdoor enclosures, the tropical house is a real magnet for zoo visitors in winter. Here you can watch spectacled caimans, pythons and monkeys in pleasant temperatures.
You don’t have any plans for the weekend? Then pay a spontaneous visit to the federal capital Vienna. It takes just 1.5 hours by train to get to the heart of the city’s hustle and bustle. Visit one of the many museums, discover the first district in Christmas splendour or treat yourself in one of the many cafés. Want more information? We’ve got lots of tips for the best winter activities in Vienna.
No matter which tips you choose, you still don’t like winter in Linz? No problem! Then escape the fog, slush and rain. Take the opportunity of an ERASMUS study programme and find out about possible destinations. We’ll be happy to help you out and provide you with some inspiration for winter activities in Portugal.