Alpine peeks meet cobblestone streets
A travel guide to Villach and the Carinthian countryside
5 min read
Why choose between the allure of the mountains and the irresistible comforts of a city when you can have both? Nestled between towering Alpine peaks and charming cobblestone streets, Villach offers the perfect mix of nature, culture and history. In this guide, we’ll take you through Villach’s must—see sights, while also offering insider tips on where to eat, have fun and immerse yourself in nature.
Ready to uncover the magic of Villach? Let’s dive in!
Start in the old town
Villach is a place where time feels as though it has paused. Stroll through its winding cobbled streets, take in the vibrant hues of the historic facades and lose yourself in the whimsical charm of its hidden alleyways. This picturesque Carinthian town, with its elegant houses and lively squares, carries a hint of Mediterranean flair (not only because Italy isn’t that far), while the cracks and crevices of its centuries—old buildings whisper stories of the past.
Make sure to capture a snapshot at Hauptplatz, the town’s main square. You won’t have to look far for the perfect shot—one of our limehome is set right in this iconic location, offering you a front—row seat to Villach’s heart and soul.
Ready for a coffee break?
The coffee is roasted with care—using only the finest beans, plenty of love and, of course, a generous dose of caffeine. One sip, and you’ll be coming back for more.
A hip café blending industrial and vintage style, serving exceptional coffee made from house—roasted beans. Every product here is sourced from the Alps-Adriatic region.
Caffè Latte Bar has a cosy, quirky charm, especially in warmer months. Its little terrace, tucked against the cobblestones, offers an idyllic spot to relax.
Sights you don't want to miss
THE STADTPFARRTURM
The 94—metre Stadtpfarrturm offers breathtaking views over the old town, the Drau River and the nearby mountains. Climb its steep stairs to discover its neo—Gothic history and a pilgrimage exhibition on Santiago de Compostela.
ROSE GARDEN
For a quiet escape, visit the hidden Rosengarten in the city centre. In June, its fragrant roses are in full bloom—the perfect setting to unwind.
Our picks for food & drinks
A small, stylish restaurant offering delicious Vietnamese dishes, from pho to bánh mì, all made with authentic ingredients and a modern touch.
McMullens serves beers, stouts, whiskeys, and pub food, plus billiards, darts, quizzes, live screenings and concerts—just as a great pub should.
Fancy a cocktail instead of a beer? At Anna Neumann, enjoy coffee by day, cocktails by night—plus wine and fresh tarte flambée to keep you steady on your bar stool.
Off to the mountains
The Villach region has everything a mountain lover could dream of: towering peaks, crystal-clear lakes, scenic cycling trails and plenty of culinary delights. This picturesque corner of Austria offers a wealth of activities and experiences, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Renowned for its hiking and mountain tours, the region caters to all levels. Whether you’re seeking a challenging climb or a leisurely circular route, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views. Nature enthusiasts will also find plenty to marvel at, from the alpine edelweiss flower to stone pines and the elusive ibex. In summer, the lakeside paths are a perfect spot to cool off after a rewarding hike.
From the bathing jetty to the summit
GERLITZEN ALPE
The Gerlitzen offers the unique combination of mountain and lake. Float up into the mountain world with the Panorama—Kanzelbahn in the morning, lying by the lake, legs dangling in the water in the afternoon.
With the Panorama—Kanzelbahn and the Gerlitzen—Gipfelbahn you can effortlessly reach 1.911 metres in altitude within 30 minutes. So there’s still plenty of energy left for the magnificent views of the mountains and lakes. Rustic huts invite you to linger.
Top hiking routes for beginners
Take the Villach Alpine Road, offering stunning views of the Villach basin and Nockberg region, to walk from Aichingerhütte (1.650 m) to the summit house. An easy family—friendly path as well as a more challenging hunter’s trail lead to the top, where you’ll find the two highest pilgrimage churches in the Eastern Alps.
This scenic hike in the Carnica region of the Rosental Valley takes you along picturesque forest paths to the treeless summit of Ferlacher Spitze (1.742 m), offering stunning views of Lake Faak, the Villach basin, and the valley. On the descent, stop at Bertahütte (1.567 m) for a refreshing break.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, a circular hike around Lake Faak is just the thing. Nevertheless, you climb not just one, but four—albeit not gigantically high—peaks: the Wauberg (689 m), the Rudnik (717 m), the Petelin (802 m) and the Tabor (725 m). The tour is also recommended for families with children.
More exciting adventures in the region
Do the muscles ache and you need a break from mountain sports? Or maybe the weather just isn’t ideal for a hiking adventure? These three alternative activities are guaranteed to turn your day in the Villach region into an experience:
Set against a backdrop of majestic mountains and shimmering turquoise waters, this hidden gem is a playground for the adventurous soul. Dive in the crystal—clear lake, feel the rush of windsurfing across its surface, or paddleboard along its tranquil shores. Lake Ossiacher awaits, ready to ignite the thrill-seeker within you.
Again a trip for young and old: the Birds of Prey and Owl Park. The arena is part of Landskron Castle near Villach on Lake Ossiacher, which also houses the Landskron Monkey Mountain in addition to the castle restaurant.
Hiking can make you tired. But where better to relax than in a thermal spa? For adults but also for children, everything is taken care of here and who does better in the sliding challenge is up to each person to find out.
Useful tips for Villach
- Best time to visit: Villach is worth a visit throughout the year. If you’re into nature you will love Carinthia’s different faces and colors during the different seasons. Summer beckons with events and a dip in the water, while winter calls for boards under your feet and gallant turns on the slopes. Villach can offer all of this.
- Getting there: Reach Villach from Vienna via the A2 Süd motorway and from Salzburg via the A10 Tauern motorway. From Italy (Tarvisio), take the A23 and A2 motorways. By train, Villach main station is a central hub with direct connections from Vienna (approx. 4 hours), Salzburg (approx. 2 hours) and Italy (e.g. Udine, Venice) via Tarvisio.
- Local customs: The locals are modest people. But they are proud of their regional delicacies and with good reason. Eat Kasnudeln and see for yourself.
Culture and events
- How about stage art? Since 2011, the Kulturhof Villach has established itself as a stronghold for alternative art and culture—a place to linger, be creative and exchange ideas, even beyond the event program. There’s something to look at and marvel at in every corner, from the sound corridor to the supposedly smallest gallery in the city.
- The Villach Kirchtag has been inviting visitors to feast, enjoy and celebrate since 1936. Around 450.000 visitors from all over the world flock to the Carinthian city for this event. Exhibitors and countless devices to get your adrenaline pumping and numerous Kirchtag loaders who serve you Carinthian delicacies. In addition to Reindling, Kasnudeln and the like, you can also enjoy the traditional Kirchtag soup. Party animals can party into the early hours at numerous live concerts in the city center.
- The street art festival also takes place in Villach city center in summer. The city on the Drau then becomes a Mecca for street artists and jugglers. Both culinary and artistic diversity attract numerous visitors from a wide variety of regions. The cobblestones are shaking here.
Packing checklist
Not sure what to bring? Download our checklist with everything you’ll need for an urban weekend, from comfortable shoes to a portable water bag when exploring the Alps.
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