Things To Do
in Klagenfurt

Klagenfurt is the capital of Carinthia, Austria, known for its picturesque lakes, vibrant cultural scene, and historical architecture. Nestled by the Wörthersee lake, it offers a blend of natural beauty and urban charm, making it a popular destination for both relaxation and exploration. The city's rich history is reflected in its well-preserved medieval buildings and lively squares.

With a variety of outdoor activities and cultural events, Klagenfurt attracts visitors year-round.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Klagenfurt
morning
:

Visit the famous Lindwurm Fountain and take a stroll through the historic Old Town, admiring the architecture and local shops.

afternoon
:

Head to the Wörthersee beach for swimming and relaxing by the lake, followed by a visit to the Minimundus, a miniature world showcasing famous landmarks.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and take a leisurely walk along the lakeside promenade, perhaps stopping to enjoy some live music.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Botanical Garden, followed by a hike in the nearby mountains, like the Gerlitzen Alpe.

afternoon
:

Visit the Carinthian Museum of Modern Art to explore local and international contemporary art.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Austrian Gasthaus and experience the local nightlife at a bar or club.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at a Mid-range Restaurant15-25
Cappuccino3-4
🍺Local Beer4-6
🚇Public Transport Ticket2.20
🏨Hotel Night (Double Room)80-150

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery with lakes and mountains.
  • Rich cultural heritage and historical sites.
  • Variety of outdoor and recreational activities.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Can be crowded in peak summer season.
  • Some language barriers for those not speaking German.
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Bitte" - Please
  • "Entschuldigung" - Excuse me
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Klagenfurt

Visit one of these nice places.

Lindwurm Fountain

An iconic symbol of Klagenfurt, this impressive fountain features a dragon statue and is set against a beautiful backdrop of historical buildings.

Wörthersee Promenade

A scenic lakeside walkway perfect for capturing stunning sunset views over the lake.

Minimundus

A miniature park featuring replicas of famous landmarks, providing unique photo opportunities in a compact setting.

Culinary Guide

Food in Klagenfurt

Klagenfurt offers a delightful culinary experience with a mix of traditional Austrian dishes and modern cuisine.

Klagenfurt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kärntner Kasnudeln

A traditional Carinthian pasta filled with cheese, potatoes, and herbs, usually served with a side of melted butter.

Must-Try!

Schnitzel

A breaded and fried meat cutlet, commonly made with pork or veal, often served with potato salad or fries.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Klagenfurt Farmers' Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh produce, local cheeses, and homemade pastries.

Climate Guide

Weather

Klagenfurt experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are warm, with average temperatures ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F), while winters can be chilly, averaging around -1 to 5°C (30-41°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, with slightly more precipitation during the summer months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake with eye contact is the standard greeting. Use titles and surnames until invited to use first names.

Quiet in Public Spaces

Maintain a moderate volume in public spaces, as Austrians value a level of decorum and respect.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for everyone to be served before starting to eat and keep your hands on the table, but not your elbows.

Safety Guide

Safety

Klagenfurt is considered a safe city with a low crime rate. However, standard precautions should be taken, such as keeping personal belongings secure and being aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112.

Tipping in Klagenfurt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is customary in Austria, generally around 10-15% of the total bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring in Klagenfurt brings blooming flowers and mild temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities and festivals.

Summer

Summer is warm and perfect for swimming in Wörthersee and enjoying lakeside events and concerts.

Autumn

Autumn showcases beautiful foliage, making it a great time for hiking and exploring the scenic countryside.

Winter

Winter can be cold with opportunities for skiing in nearby mountains, as well as festive Christmas markets in the city.

Nightlife Guide

Klagenfurt at Night

Klagenfurt's nightlife is lively, with a mix of bars, clubs, and cultural events. The city center offers numerous pubs and wine bars where locals and tourists socialize. For those looking for dancing, several clubs play a variety of music genres. Additionally, seasonal outdoor events and concerts often take place by the lake, creating a vibrant atmosphere for evening entertainment.

Hiking in Klagenfurt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Gerlitzen Alpe

A popular hiking destination with well-marked trails and breathtaking views of the Wörthersee and surrounding mountains.

Pyramidenkogel

A short hike leading to a lookout tower offering panoramic views of the area, including the lake and the Austrian Alps.

Airports

How to reach Klagenfurt by plane.

Klagenfurt Airport (KLU)

Located just a few kilometers from the city center, Klagenfurt Airport offers both domestic and limited international flights, making it convenient for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Klagenfurt is highly walkable, with most attractions located within a short distance of each other in the city center. Wide sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and well-marked paths make it easy to explore on foot. Public transport options are also available for longer distances or when seeking outdoor activities in the surrounding areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

A growing demographic in Klagenfurt, attracted by job opportunities in various sectors and a vibrant lifestyle.

Retirees

Many retirees choose Klagenfurt for its peaceful environment, beautiful scenery, and access to outdoor activities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular, with local clubs drawing large crowds and fostering community spirit.

Skiing

In winter, skiing becomes a major sport, with nearby mountains offering various slopes suitable for all levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Klagenfurt is generally manageable, with moderate congestion during peak hours. Public transportation, including buses and trams, is efficient and connects the city with surrounding areas, making it easy to get around without a car. Cycling is also a popular and viable option due to dedicated bike lanes.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Klagenfurt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask when making a reservation.

Gluten-Free Options

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

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Klagenfurt offers excellent healthcare services, with several hospitals and clinics available to residents and visitors. Emergency medical services can be reached easily, and most healthcare providers speak English. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers health needs while abroad.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide