The Best Travel Destinations in Klagenfurt and Lake Wörth
Klagenfurt, Carinthia’s capital, has a turquoise-colored lake, cultural sights, and numerous picturesque hiking spots. If this sounds appealing, think about visiting Carinthia’s capital. Klagenfurt is situated on Lake Wörth’s eastern shore. Keep reading for some of the best destinations in Klagenfurt.
Here are a few facts about Klagenfurt and Lake Wörth, so you know more about where you’re going. This city, with around 100,000 inhabitants, is one of the biggest in Austria. It is in the south of the country, only 30 kilometers from the Slovenian border. It is known for its sporting events, including the Ironman Austria or the Beach Volleyball Grand Slam.
You can get to Klagenfurt via car or plane. Since environmentally friendly travel is important, you can use the Austrian Federal Railway (ÖBB) or the German Federal Railway (DB). You can also take the bus to Klagenfurt. Generally, the city has good public transportation and makes travelling flexible. This is perfect for backpackers.
Lake Wörth
Klagenfurt is situated near the beautiful Lake Wörth. With 20 square kilometers, it is the largest lake in the state. You won’t get cold in this alpine lake. With record temperatures of 29˚C, it is one of the warmest lakes in the European area. If you’re interested in a relaxing swim day, visit one of the most extensive European lake resorts – the lakeside beach in Klagenfurt.
Not only can you swim in the beautiful turquoise water, but you can also do other sporting activities. Test your balance on a Stand-Up Paddling Tour, rent a paddle boat for a trip across the lake, or burn off your energy at the beach volleyball court. For quieter days, the beach, or one of the three lake docks, is available for sunbathing.
If you enjoy camping, we have great news! There is a campsite right next to the lake resort. However, if you prefer accommodation in the city, you can take a bus to the lakeside beach.
Klagenfurt’s Old Town
If you are in Klagenfurt, it is worth taking a stroll through the old town. Italian influences and elaborately renovated houses are a feature of this quarter. The old town is still bustling with life. In the evening, you can choose between the numerous restaurants or have cocktails at a bar.
The shops in town are perfect to stroll through and shop for souvenirs to take home. One of Klagenfurt’s highlights is its markets. On Thursday and Saturday, the Benediktinermarkt square is perfect for a walk. When you get there, you can try regional foods and delicacies from neighboring countries. If you love organic products, the organic market is perfect for you! It takes place every Friday in Lidmanksygasse.
The Pyramidkogel
Close to Lake Wörth, you will find the 851 meters high Pyramidkogel tower. It is perfect for a magnificent hiking trip. Don’t worry about the journey there, as you can reach the Pyramidkogel tower easily via Klagenfurt’s railway station.
Pyramidkogel’s famous characteristic is a wooden tower that stands 100 meters tall. It is the largest observation tower of its kind worldwide! To reach the top, you have to climb 441 stairs. You can also use the elevator, so don’t worry if you get out of breath.
When you arrive at the top, you can enjoy the breathtaking view of Lake Wörth on one of three platforms. The highest platform is 71 meters tall. The descent will only take you around 20 seconds, because you can ride down a metal slide that will get you up to a speed of 25 kilometers per hour. The slide starts at a 52-meter height and is the highest indoor slide in Europe!
The Minimundus
Want a quick trip to famous cities like New York, Sydney, or Rome? In Klagenfurt’s Minimundus, you can visit all of these places in miniature form. There are 160 small replicas of famous structures from over 40 countries. These are made in great detail and built at a ratio of 1:25. The exhibition is perfect for rainy days, as next to the outdoor area there is also loads to discover indoors.
The Reptile Zoo Happ
Right next to the Minimundus, you will find the Reptile Zoo Happ. You can combine these two destinations into one trip! The Reptile Zoo Happ has a surface area of 4,000 square meters. You can admire numerous native and exotic animals there. If you would like to take a look at piranhas, bird spiders, and mugger crocodiles, the Reptile Zoo Happ is the place for you.
The outdoor garden is an ideal spot for a souvenir photo. The garden is full of huge dinosaur models you can admire and photograph.
The Lindworm
You will find popular landmarks in all the state capitals of the nine Austrian states. There is one in Klagenfurt called the Lindworm. It is made of chlorite schist stone and resembles a dragon with two wings and a ringed tail. There is also a jet of water which comes out of the dragon’s mouth instead of fire.
Several legends exist about the magical creature, which is located at the Neuen Platz. According to folklore, he was carried to his current spot by 100 youths in white dresses. The statue has an interesting origin story. The Lindworm used to cause mischief and unrest in the region, so the local community fought and killed him. They then built the city of Klagenfurt. The Lindworm is still Klagenfurt’s coat of arms.
The Museum of Modern Art
If you love art, put Klagenfurt’s Museum of Modern Art on your itinerary. In this spacious museum, you will find inspiring artwork by Austrian and international artists. For their exhibition, they use 14 rooms, and from time to time, this includes the inner courtyard and the castle chapel. The expositions change every few months and offer a variety of modern art.
The Eboardmuseum
At the Eboardmuseum, you can find almost any instrument with an electronic keyboard. These can be played at a whim and can make a music lover’s day. The museum is a great alternative to Klagenfurt’s outdoor attractions when there is bad weather.
There are around 2,000 instruments in the museum. This is thanks to Klagenfurt native, Gert Prix, who founded this museum over 30 years ago.
The Theater in Klagenfurt
Klagenfurt’s theater has a lot to offer. This includes magical architecture, stage programs of wonderful ballet performances, and musicals that will give you goosebumps. The Carinthia symphony orchestra accompanies the programs and plays concerts at the theater.
If you are looking for exciting, evening entertainment, go to the city theater! Your ticket can simultaneously function as a bus ticket, so you don’t have to worry about how to get there and back. You can buy tickets online or at the box office. Have fun!
Kreuzbergl
Leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind you at the 517-meter high Kreuzbergl church. The church is surrounded by forests, so you can relax and stretch your legs. On the way, you can spot several small ponds and admire the church’s architecture.
For anyone interested in space, the observatory at the church is fascinating. Dive into the universe and visit exciting evening events here. You can also go see the planetarium in Klagenfurt if this isn’t enough for you.
Another interesting sight at the Kreuzbergl is the botanical garden. Surrounded by the rich green of exotic plants, you can admire nature’s diversity. Forget your everyday stress as you listen to the peaceful sounds of the waterfall.
You have plenty of options when it comes to dinner! You can either take some food with you or visit the nearby tavern. Try some of Carinthia’s national specialties at the Waldwirt or the Schweizerhaus. If you haven’t already done so, this is your chance. When in Carinthia, you have to try the delicious Kasnudln (cheese noodles)!
Conclusion
The beautiful city of Klagenfurt has much to offer. If you are passing through Austria, take a couple of days and stay there. Enjoy the nature and the city’s great atmosphere.
A day at Lake Wörth’s beach or a visit to the Kreuzbergl is perfect for relaxing. You won’t get bored on rainy days here either. Visit the Minimundus, the Reptile Zoo, or one of the museums. No matter the weather, you have options to see a variety of sights. For campers, Lake Wörth has a great campsite.
When you’re traveling with a backpack, you can reach everything conveniently with a bus in Klagenfurt. This is great for the environment, and you don’t have to waste your time looking for a parking spot.
All in all, it can be said that a short trip to Klagenfurt is absolutely worth it. So, what are you waiting for?
