Things To Do
in Völkermarkt

Völkermarkt is a charming town located in the southern part of Austria, nestled at the confluence of the Völkermarkt river and the Drava river. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, the town is an ideal destination for those seeking both relaxation and outdoor adventure. It is surrounded by stunning mountains and lush greenery, offering a variety of recreational activities.

The town also boasts a vibrant local culture, with friendly residents and traditional Austrian hospitality.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Völkermarkt
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Völkermarkt City Museum, where you can learn about the town's history and culture. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Völkermarkt Park.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local café, then head to the nearby Drava River for a scenic walk or bike ride along its banks. Take in the views of the surrounding mountains and the serene landscape.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Austrian restaurant, followed by a visit to a local pub for some live music or a casual drink.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Begin with breakfast at a local bakery, then take a short drive to the nearby Petzen Mountain for hiking or skiing, depending on the season.

afternoon
:

After exploring the trails, pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the designated picnic spots while soaking in the panoramic views. If you're feeling adventurous, try rock climbing in the area.

evening
:

Return to Völkermarkt for dinner at a cozy restaurant, and end your day by visiting a local wine bar to sample regional wines.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a restaurant$15
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$4
🚌Local bus ticket$2
🏨Hotel night stay (mid-range)$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities
  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals
  • Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities
  • Limited nightlife options compared to bigger cities
  • Public transportation may not be as frequent
  • Language barrier for non-German speakers
  • "Guten Tag" - Good day
  • "Danke" - Thank you
  • "Sprechen Sie Englisch?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Wo ist die Toilette?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "Haben Sie eine Speisekarte auf Englisch?" - Do you have a menu in English?

Places to Visit in Völkermarkt

Visit one of these nice places.

Völkermarkt Castle

An iconic historical site offering stunning views of the town and surrounding landscape, perfect for capturing the essence of Völkermarkt.

Drava River Promenade

A picturesque setting along the river, ideal for sunset photography with beautiful reflections and natural scenery.

Petzen Mountain

The panoramic views from the top of Petzen Mountain provide breathtaking backdrops for landscape photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Völkermarkt

Völkermarkt offers a delightful culinary experience that showcases traditional Austrian cuisine enriched with local flavors.

Völkermarkt Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Kärntner Kasnudeln

These are traditional stuffed pasta pockets filled with a mixture of potato and cheese, typically served with a side of green salad.

Must-Try!

Schnitzel

A classic Austrian dish, schnitzel is a breaded and fried meat cutlet that comes in various forms, usually served with potatoes and a slice of lemon.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Völkermarkt Farmers' Market

Held every Saturday, this market offers fresh local produce, cheeses, and handmade goods from regional farmers.

Climate Guide

Weather

Völkermarkt experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cold with temperatures often dropping below freezing, while summers are warm and pleasant, averaging 25°C (77°F). Spring and autumn are mild, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, but summer months can experience thunderstorms.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A firm handshake and maintaining eye contact are important when greeting someone in Austria.

Punctuality

Being on time is highly valued in Austrian culture; it is considered rude to be late for appointments or meetings.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal or toast before beginning to eat, and it is polite to finish all food on your plate.

Safety Guide

Safety

Völkermarkt is generally safe for tourists. Standard safety precautions should be taken, such as being aware of your surroundings and securing your belongings. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112, and the local police are helpful for any concerns.

Tipping in Völkermarkt

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to round up the bill or leave a tip of about 10-15% in restaurants, depending on the service quality.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and blossoming flowers, making it an excellent time for outdoor activities and hiking.

Summer

Warm weather attracts tourists to the lakes and mountains for swimming and hiking, with numerous festivals taking place.

Autumn

Enjoy cooler temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, perfect for photography and exploring the surrounding nature.

Winter

Cold temperatures and snow create a winter wonderland, ideal for skiing and snowboarding at nearby resorts.

Nightlife Guide

Völkermarkt at Night

Völkermarkt's nightlife is relatively relaxed compared to larger cities, but there are a few cozy bars and pubs where locals gather. You can find live music, especially on weekends, at various venues. Wine bars and beer gardens offer a great atmosphere for socializing, and during the summer months, outdoor events and festivals add to the lively scene.

Hiking in Völkermarkt

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Petzen Trail

A well-marked hiking trail leading to the summit of Petzen Mountain, offering stunning views and varied terrain.

Drava River Trail

This scenic trail follows the banks of the Drava River, perfect for leisurely hikes with opportunities for bird watching.

Airports

How to reach Völkermarkt by plane.

Klagenfurt Airport (KLU)

Located about 30 km from Völkermarkt, Klagenfurt Airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it the most convenient arrival point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Völkermarkt is quite walkable, with most attractions, shops, and restaurants located within a short distance from one another. The town features pedestrian-friendly streets and paths, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some attractions may require a short drive or bike ride.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Families

Völkermarkt has a strong community of families who value local culture, education, and outdoor activities.

Young Professionals

An emerging group in the area, young professionals are attracted to Völkermarkt's affordable living and proximity to nature.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A widely followed sport in Völkermarkt, with local teams competing in regional leagues, attracting a loyal fanbase.

Skiing

With nearby mountain resorts, skiing is a popular winter sport, drawing visitors from all over to enjoy the slopes.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Völkermarkt is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or on foot. Public transportation includes buses that connect to nearby towns and cities, though services may be limited during off-peak hours. Biking is also a popular mode of transport due to the scenic routes available.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Völkermarkt.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants in Völkermarkt offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu or ask the staff for options.

Gluten-Free

While gluten-free options may be limited, some establishments provide alternatives; always inquire ahead.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Völkermarkt is accessible and of high quality. There are local clinics and pharmacies available for basic health needs. In case of emergencies, hospitals in nearby larger cities can be reached quickly. It's advisable for visitors to have travel insurance for comprehensive coverage.

Discover Austria

Read more in our Austria 2025 Travel Guide.

Austria Travel Guide