Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, is beautifully situated along the Danube River. It’s renowned for its unique blend of historical charm and contemporary innovation. Known as the city of media arts, Linz is home to the annual Ars Electronica Festival, which attracts technophiles and artists from around the globe. The city seamlessly combines its Baroque architecture with cutting-edge technology, offering visitors a fascinating journey through time. Continue reading to discover the best areas to stay in Linz.
Accommodation Options in Linz, Austria
Historically, Linz started as a Roman settlement and has become an important industrial and cultural center. The city’s landmarks, such as the impressive Linz Castle and the iconic Pöstlingberg Church, reflect its rich past. Today, Linz is celebrated for its cultural festivals, diverse dining options, and a range of accommodations catering to leisure and business travelers. Visitors can find chic boutique hotels, comfortable business hotels, budget-friendly hostels, and everything in between, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay.
In addition to its historical sites, Linz offers attractions like the Lentos Art Museum, featuring an extensive collection of modern art, the beautiful Botanical Garden, and the interactive Ars Electronica Center. The city’s efficient tram and bus network makes exploring these attractions convenient and enjoyable.
Linz exudes a vibrant atmosphere balanced with a relaxed pace, making it a delightful destination for cultural excursions and leisurely visits. Known for its innovative spirit, the city is a hidden gem for those seeking an alternative to Austria’s more famous destinations like Vienna and Salzburg.
Continue reading to find out the best areas to stay in Linz. Whether you’re interested in history, art, or modern technology, Linz has something to offer. Let’s explore the unique districts that make Linz an exciting place to visit and stay.
What’s the best area to stay in Linz?
The best area to stay in Linz is Altstadt/Innere Stadt. This historic district is filled with charming Baroque architecture, lively squares, and numerous cafes and restaurants. Staying here places you within walking distance of major attractions like Linz Castle, the Old Cathedral, and the Lentos Art Museum. The Altstadt offers a mix of boutique hotels and luxury accommodations, making it an ideal base for exploring the city’s cultural and historical landmarks.
Find available accommodation in Linz Innere Stadt.
Best Hotels in Innere Stadt, Linz
- Best four-star hotel: Leonardo Boutique Hotel Linz City Center
- Best three-star hotel: Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger – Hauptplatz
- Best budget hotel: ART-INN Design Self-Check-in-Hotel
- Best Airbnb: Rilke Apartments
Where to Stay in Linz for Sightseeing
As mentioned above, the Altstadt is the best location to stay in the Austrian city. That said, each quarter has a distinct atmosphere and different attractions. These are some of the best areas to stay in Linz:
- The Innere Stadt and Altstadt in central Linz are known for Baroque architecture and historic sites like Linz Castle and the Old Cathedral. Perfect for major attractions, it offers boutique hotels, luxury accommodations, and vibrant nightlife.
- The Hauptbahnhof area is a busy transportation hub southeast of the center, ideal for easy access to trains. It has business hotels and budget options.
- Urfahr, north of the Danube, has a relaxed atmosphere, scenic views, outdoor activities, and mid-range hotels.
- Bulgariplatz, south of the center, is residential, offering budget hotels, a local feel, and a few bars and restaurants.
The Best Areas to Stay in Linz: Neighborhood Guide
1. Innere Stadt & Altstadt
The best area to stay in Linz for sightseeinG
Innere Stadt (Old Town) is the heart of Linz, filled with historical buildings, shops, and market stalls.
-
Why is this the best area to stay in Linz, Austria:
- Rich historical charm
- Vibrant atmosphere
- Iconic Hauptplatz Square
- Bustling Landstraße Shopping Street
- Majestic Linz Castle
- Diverse art and culture
- Beautiful Old Cathedral
- Cozy coffee houses
- Unique markets and boutiques
- Fascinating museums
- Exciting nightlife
- Excellent accessibility
Innere Stadt and Altstadt are centrally located in Linz, forming the historic core of the city. Positioned on the southern bank of the Danube River, these areas offer easy access to Linz’s main attractions and provide a picturesque setting.
Dating back to medieval times, Innere Stadt and Altstadt have preserved much of their historical charm. The Old Town is characterized by its baroque architecture and cobblestone streets, reflecting Linz’s rich cultural heritage.
These neighborhoods are known for their proximity to the Danube, offering beautiful river views and enjoyable walks. The central location provides easy access to major attractions, shopping, and dining. There’s a mix of historical buildings and modern amenities.
Some of the attractions in the area include Hauptplatz, the main square, which is surrounded by historical buildings and is home to the Trinity Column. Linz Castle offers panoramic views of the city and houses the Upper Austrian Provincial Museum. The Old Cathedral (Alter Dom) is a stunning example of baroque architecture with beautiful interiors, and Landstraße is one of the main shopping streets in Linz, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
Innere Stadt and Altstadt have a lively nightlife scene with numerous bars, pubs, and clubs. The area caters to many tastes, from cozy pubs to lively nightclubs.
Transportation options include several tram lines running through this area, making it easy to navigate the city. Multiple bus routes connect Innere Stadt and Altstadt to other parts of Linz. The central location makes it convenient to explore many attractions on foot.
The accommodation options in Innere Stadt and Altstadt range from luxury hotels to budget-friendly inns.
Best Hotels in Innere Stadt & Altstadt, Linz
Leonardo Boutique Hotel Linz City Center
Leonardo Boutique Hotel Linz City Center is located directly in the center of Linz, steps away from the Mariendom church.
Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger – Hauptplatz
Located right at the main square in the Old Town of Linz, Austria Classic Hotel Wolfinger occupies a historic building from the 15th century. Free WiFi is available.
ART-INN Design Self-Check-in-Hotel
Located within a 12-minute walk of Casino Linz, ART-INN Design Self-Check-in-Hotel provides rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Linz. The property is close to several well-known attractions.
Rilke Apartments
Rilke Apartments is a recently renovated condo hotel in Linz near Casino Linz. This property has an elevator and luggage storage space, as well as free Wi-Fi throughout.
2. Hauptbahnhof Area
The best location for a route through Austria
Located near the central train station, the Hauptbahnhof area is ideal for business travelers and those who need easy access to public transport.
Linz Hauptbahnhof, or Linz Central Station, is located in the southern part of the city center. It is a major railway hub and the busiest station in Austria outside of Vienna. Opened in 1858, the station serves over 40,000 passengers daily and is part of the Western Railway, Pyhrn Railway, Summerauer Railway, and Linzer Lokalbahn (LILO).
The Hauptbahnhof area is known for its excellent connectivity. Tram, bus, and regional bus services make it easy to navigate the city and beyond. The station features a shopping area and various dining options.
Attractions near Hauptbahnhof include the Musiktheater Linz, one of Europe’s most modern opera houses, and the Volksgarten, a large public park perfect for a relaxing stroll. The Design Center Linz, a renowned venue for conventions and exhibitions, is also nearby.
Nightlife in the Hauptbahnhof area is more subdued than other parts of Linz. However, there are several bars and pubs where you can unwind after a long day of travel or sightseeing.
Transportation options in the Hauptbahnhof area are plentiful. The station is a hub for multiple tram lines, buses, and regional trains, providing easy access to various parts of the city and beyond. Additionally, the station’s proximity makes it convenient for day trips to other Austrian cities.
Accommodation in the Hauptbahnhof area includes a range of hotels catering to different budgets and needs. Whether you’re looking for a luxury or budget-friendly hotel, you’ll find suitable lodging close to the station.
Best Hotels near the Hauptbahnhof, Linz
Hotel Schillerpark Linz, a member of Radisson Individuals
Located in the center of Linz, Hotel Schillerpark Linz, a member of Radisson Individuals is a 12-minute walk from the main square, a 10-minute walk from Linz Main Station. Free WiFi is available.
Hotel Lokomotive
Family-run since 1906, Hotel Lokomotive is near the main train station of Linz. It offers comfortable rooms and a rich breakfast buffet.
Hotel “Wilder Mann”
Hotel “Wilder Mann” is only a 7-minute walk from Linz’s Main Train Station. It offers free Wi-Fi access in public areas and free parking.
3. Urfahr
Quiet location with great views
Situated on the other side of the Danube, Urfahr offers a quieter atmosphere and is great for those who prefer a more relaxed environment.
Urfahr is a district located north of the Danube River in Linz. Once an independent town, it became part of Linz in 1919. This district is known for its vibrant community and historical significance.
Urfahr offers several notable attractions. The Ars Electronica Center stands out as a major highlight. Known as the “Museum of the Future,” it explores the intersection of art, technology, and society with interactive exhibits. Visitors can experience cutting-edge technology through hands-on displays and immersive experiences, like the Deep Space 8K.
Another key attraction is the Urfahranermarkt, one of Austria’s largest folk festivals held twice a year, drawing crowds for its lively atmosphere and various events. The district is also home to the Volksgarten and Pöstlingberg hill, which provides panoramic views of Linz and the Danube River.
Transportation in Urfahr is well-developed. Several tram lines and bus routes connect it to other parts of Linz, making it easy to navigate the city. The Pöstlingberg Railway is a funicular railway that takes visitors to the top of Pöstlingberg hill, offering a scenic ride.
Accommodation options in Urfahr range from budget-friendly inns to more upscale hotels.
Best Hotels in Urfahr
arte Hotel Linz
Arte Hotel Linz is a design hotel offering free WiFi access and rooms with individually adjustable air conditioning, and a flat-screen TV.
Hotel Goldener Adler
Located steps away from a main transportation hub, Goldener Adler enjoys a central location in the heart of Linz/Urfahr. Free WiFi and a breakfast buffet.
Design-Apartment in Linz mit Netflix & Balkon
Design-Apartment in Linz mit Netflix & Balkon is a recently renovated apartment in Linz, near Ars Electronica Center. Both free Wifi and parking on-site are accessible at the apartment free of charge. The accommodation features private check-in and check-out.
4. Bulgariplatz
Budget-friendly location in Linz
Bulgariplatz is known for its modern amenities and is a good choice for those looking for budget accommodations.
Bulgariplatz is an area located south of Linz’s city center. Known for its functionality and accessibility, this district is a major traffic hub where several important roads converge. It is named in honor of Anton Bulgari, a resistance fighter executed in 1934.
One of the notable features in Bulgariplatz is the High Five Tower, a prominent skyscraper that has become a landmark in the area. The district is also home to various public institutions, including the Arbeitsmarktservice (AMS) and the Berufsförderungsinstitut, making it a crucial part of Linz’s infrastructure.
Transportation in Bulgariplatz is excellent. The area is crossed by the Linzer Straßenbahn (tram), and it is well-served by multiple bus routes, providing easy access to other parts of the city.
Accommodation options in Bulgariplatz vary, ranging from budget-friendly inns to more upscale hotels.
Best Hotels in Bulgariplatz
BEE GREEN Linz Self-Check-in-Hotel
BEE GREEN Linz Self-Check-in-Hotel offers 3-star accommodations in Linz and features a shared lounge. Free WiFi is available and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge.
How to Find Great Accommodation in Linz, Austria: A Personal Take
During my visit to Linz, I focused on a few key areas. Innere Stadt and Altstadt appealed due to their central location and attractions. Hauptbahnhof was tempting for its excellent connectivity. Ultimately, I chose Innere Stadt for its vibrant atmosphere and historical sites.
I stayed at the Leonardo Boutique Hotel Linz City Center, perfectly located in Innere Stadt. The rooms were clean, and the staff was helpful. The hotel’s central location made exploring Hauptplatz and Linz Castle easy. The view of the Danube from my room was a bonus. I highly recommend staying in this area for anyone who wants to be close to the action.
Where to Stay in Linz: Useful Information
Linz, located in Austria, is easy to reach. If you are flying, Linz Airport is a short drive from the city. Trains from Vienna and Salzburg are convenient and offer beautiful views of the countryside. The city layout is friendly with a mix of historical and modern architecture. It’s quite walkable, especially in the center. Public transportation includes trams and buses managed by Linz AG Verkehr, with lines 1, 2, and 4 being useful for tourists. Hauptplatz is a central hub you will likely use.
In Linz, don’t miss out on tasting the famous Linzer Torte, claimed to be the oldest cake in the world. In winter, enjoy mulled wine at a Christmas market. The climate in Linz has cold winters averaging -1°C (30°F), while summers are warm with average highs of 25°C (77°F). Spring and fall offer mild temperatures around 15°C (59°F).
Make sure to visit Ars Electronica Center for its innovative exhibits at the intersection of technology and art. Other attractions include Schlossmuseum Linz for history lovers, Lentos Art Museum featuring modern art pieces, and Pöstlingberg, offering panoramic views of the city.
Stay near Altstadt for easy access to historical sites and lively cafes. A quieter alternative is neighborhoods like Urfahr or Kleinmünchen, which take you close to nature parks.
Budget travelers should consider hostel accommodations or budget hotels along public transport routes outside the center, which remain accessible yet affordable. Book early for weekends or during popular events like festivals to secure better deals on accommodations.
