Things To Do
in Gmunden

Gmunden is a picturesque town located on the shores of Lake Traunsee in Austria, nestled within the stunning Salzkammergut region. Known for its beautiful scenery, charming architecture, and historic sites, it attracts visitors seeking both relaxation and outdoor adventures. The town boasts a vibrant cultural scene and offers various recreational activities throughout the year.

With its breathtaking landscapes and a rich history, Gmunden is an ideal destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Gmunden
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Gmunden Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and mountains. Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the castle.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local café, take a leisurely stroll along the lakeside promenade and visit the ceramic museum to learn about Gmunden's famous ceramics.

evening
:

Dine at a lakeside restaurant, enjoying traditional Austrian dishes while watching the sunset over Lake Traunsee.

day 2
Day 2: Adventure in Nature
morning
:

Begin with a hike to the nearby Grünberg mountain where you can take in the stunning views and enjoy the fresh alpine air.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic town center, exploring local shops and cafés, then take a boat tour on Lake Traunsee to appreciate the natural beauty from the water.

evening
:

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a steakhouse followed by a nightcap at a local bar, soaking in the laid-back atmosphere.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15-$25
Coffee$3-$5
🍺Local beer$4-$6
🚌Public transportation ticket$2-$3
🏨Hotel per night$80-$150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Stunning natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage with historic sites
  • Charming atmosphere with friendly locals
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
  • Some attractions may have limited hours in the off-season
  • Public transportation options may be less frequent
  • "Guten Morgen" - Good morning
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Gmunden

Visit one of these nice places.

Gmunden Castle

Capture stunning views of the castle and the surrounding lake, especially at sunset.

Lake Traunsee

The lake's shimmering waters and the backdrop of mountains provide a perfect setting for landscape photography.

Grünberg Mountain

The panoramic views from the top offer breathtaking photo opportunities of the entire region.

Culinary Guide

Food in Gmunden

Gmunden offers a delightful culinary experience, showcasing traditional Austrian flavors and local specialties that are a must-try during your visit.

Gmunden Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kasnocken

Cheese dumplings typically served with onions and chives.

Must-Try!

Fischspezialitäten

Fresh fish dishes sourced from Lake Traunsee.

Apfelstrudel

A classic Austrian dessert made with thin pastry and filled with spiced apples.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Gmunden Market

A weekly market offering fresh produce, local cheeses, and handmade goods.

Street Food at Lake Traunsee

Enjoy various food stalls along the lake serving local snacks and beverages.

Climate Guide

Weather

Gmunden experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers can be warm and pleasant, averaging around 25°C (77°F), while winters are cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. Spring and autumn provide mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and making eye contact is customary when greeting someone.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin your meal.

Respect for Nature

Always follow local guidelines when hiking or exploring natural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Gmunden is generally a safe town for travelers, with low crime rates. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Tipping in Gmunden

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants; rounding up the bill is also common.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is preferred in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures with blooming flowers make it ideal for outdoor exploration.

Summer

Warm weather perfect for swimming and hiking, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

A stunning display of fall colors; great for photography and enjoying local harvest festivals.

Winter

Cold temperatures with snow, perfect for winter sports and cozy indoor activities.

Nightlife Guide

Gmunden at Night

Gmunden's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a selection of cozy bars and pubs. Local establishments often feature live music on weekends, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Many locals enjoy socializing in beer gardens, particularly during the warmer months, where you can enjoy local brews and wines.

Hiking in Gmunden

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Grünberg Trail

A scenic hike with breathtaking views of Lake Traunsee, suitable for various skill levels.

Feuerkogel Trail

A more challenging hike that rewards trekkers with stunning panoramic views from the summit.

Airports

How to reach Gmunden by plane.

Linz Airport (LNZ)

Approximately 70 km from Gmunden, Linz Airport offers flights to various European destinations and is the nearest major airport.

Getting Around

Walkability

Gmunden is highly walkable, with a compact town center that allows visitors to easily explore shops, restaurants, and scenic spots on foot. Well-maintained paths along the lake and through parks provide pleasant walking routes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

A mix of families, retirees, and young professionals, contributing to a vibrant community.

Tourists

Visitors from all over the world, particularly during the summer and winter seasons, attracted by the natural beauty and recreational activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A popular sport in Austria, with local teams and a passionate following.

Skiing

The nearby mountains offer excellent skiing opportunities during the winter months.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Gmunden is generally light, making it easy to navigate. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, and the town is bicycle-friendly with designated paths.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Gmunden.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it is best to inquire about ingredients.

Gluten-Free Choices

Some restaurants cater to gluten-free diets, but it's advisable to check in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Austria has an excellent healthcare system, and Gmunden is served by local clinics and hospitals. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and EU residents should carry their European Health Insurance Card for access to medical services.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide