4 DaysAustriaCultureFood
Linz
Your 4-day travel guide
Best in late spring or early autumn
Linz•4D•Couple
Linz, Austria
Duration:4 Days
Activities:12
Best for:Couple
Art, River Views, and Austrian Comfort Food
Linz has this wonderful way of surprising you. It's not the grand imperial capital, but a city where industrial heritage meets cutting-edge digital art, where the Danube isn't just a backdrop but the city's main artery. You'll smell the sweet yeast from the Konditorei bakeries in the morning, hear the clang of the historic Pöstlingbergbahn tram climbing the hill, and taste the rich, comforting flavors of Linzer Torte that have been perfected for centuries. For a couple, it's perfect: intimate enough to feel like your own discovery, but packed with world-class museums and cozy riverfront spots perfect for lingering over a glass of Grüner Veltliner. Get ready for a trip that balances high culture with simple, delicious pleasures.
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Ask someone who actually lives in Linz
1
Historic Heart & Culinary Introduction
Day 1 of your journey
Start your Linz adventure at the expansive Hauptplatz, one of Austria's largest enclosed squares. Admire the Baroque Trinity Column and the colorful facades of the old town hall. Then, wander the narrow, cobbled streets of the Altstadt, popping into small boutiques and admiring the well-preserved historic architecture. This area is the historic core of the city, easy to navigate on foot and full of character. Allow time to simply get lost in the lanes.
Hauptplatz and Linzer Altstadt
Why Visit
This immerses you immediately in the city's history and scale. The Hauptplatz sets the scene with its grand architecture, while the Altstadt's intimate streets offer a more personal, romantic stroll perfect for a couple. It's the ideal, low-pressure introduction to Linz's atmosphere and layout.
Look for the 'Linz Genesis' fountain on the square. For a great photo spot, head to the small passageway called 'Alter Markt' just off the main square. Address: Hauptplatz, 4020 Linz.
2
Modern Art & Industrial Culture
Day 2 of your journey
3
Lentos Art, Lentos Art, and Local Flavors
Day 3 of your journey
4
Free Day & Local Exploration
Day 4 of your journey
Before You Go
Essential Travel Tips
Get a Linz Card. It includes free public transport (trams, buses), free or discounted entry to most major museums (Ars Electronica, Lentos, Schlossmuseum), and discounts on tours and the Pöstlingbergbahn.
Public transport is excellent. Trams are the easiest way to get around the city center and to key attractions. Tickets can be bought at machines at stops or via the 'Linz AG' app.
German is the official language. While many in tourism speak English, learning a few basic phrases like 'Guten Tag' (hello), 'Danke' (thank you), and 'Bitte' (please/you're welcome) is appreciated.
Austria uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's always good to have some cash for smaller cafes, markets, or bakeries.
Linz is a very safe city, even at night. Standard urban precautions apply, but violent crime is rare.
Tipping is customary. Round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service in restaurants. Just tell the server the total amount you wish to pay when handing over your cash/card.
Sunday hours: Many smaller shops and some bakeries are closed on Sundays. Museums, larger restaurants, and cafes in tourist areas generally remain open.
Tap water is safe to drink and of excellent quality. Austrians are proud of their water, so feel free to ask for 'Leitungswasser' (tap water) in restaurants, though they may charge a small fee for the glass.
When to Go
Best Time to Visit
The best times to visit Linz are late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October). During these months, you'll enjoy mild, pleasant weather ideal for walking, with average highs around 20°C (68°F). The summer months (July and August) are warmer and sunnier but can be more crowded. Winter (December to February) is cold, with potential for snow, but it has its own charm with Christmas markets in December. The famous Linz 'Pflasterspektakel' street art festival in July is a highlight if you don't mind crowds.
Local Insights & Tips
Linz is a city that takes pride in its contrasts: historic industry and cutting-edge digital art, Baroque squares and sleek riverfront architecture. Locals are generally friendly and reserved. The pace is calmer than in Vienna or Salzburg. Don't be surprised by the city's direct connection to its industrial past, it's a point of identity, not something hidden. The Danube is central to life here, used for recreation, not just transport. In restaurants, service can seem less hurried than in some countries, it's about enjoying the meal. 'Grüß Gott' is a common greeting. Try the local 'Most' (cider) and note that a 'Gasthaus' is typically more traditional than a 'Restaurant'.