How to get to Linz

Getting to Linz, the dynamic capital of Upper Austria located on the banks of the Danube, is quite simple thanks to its central position in Europe. Whether you plan to travel to Linz by plane, train, or car, this modern cultural hub offers excellent accessibility for travellers. The city welcomes guests with a unique blend of historic architecture and futuristic art, making a trip here the start of an exciting adventure in Austria.

The most convenient way to reach the city is to take a flight to the local Linz Airport (Blue Danube Airport), located just a few kilometres from the centre. This aviation hub (IATA code: LNZ) receives flights from various European cities, ensuring a quick arrival directly to your destination.

If direct flights are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly into major neighbouring hubs, such as Vienna or Salzburg (about 108 km away). From these cities, it is easy to reach Linz by train or bus, making the route convenient even without a direct air connection.

Rail service in this region is organised to the highest standard, and the main gateway to the city is Linz Hauptbahnhof (Central Station). This is one of the most modern stations in Austria, where high-speed trains arrive regularly, making travel by rail comfortable and punctual.

Thanks to a dense network of routes, it is easy to get here from neighbouring cities. A trip from Salzburg or Sankt Pölten will take very little time, revealing scenic views outside the window. Convenient trains also connect the city with the Czech city of České Budějovice, which is an excellent option for tourists travelling through Central Europe.

Travelling by bus often becomes an economical and scenic alternative to other modes of transport. One of the fastest routes runs from Sankt Pölten: covering a distance of about 109 km usually takes approximately 1.5 hours. Connections with Salzburg are also popular, where the bus covers a path of 131 km in about 1.8 hours.

For those coming from the Czech Republic, there is a route from the city of České Budějovice. Although the distance here is shorter (about 83 km), the travel time is around 3 hours, allowing you to leisurely enjoy the landscapes of the border region.

A trip by car gives tourists maximum freedom and allows you to appreciate the quality of Austrian roads. From Sankt Pölten, you can reach the destination in just 1.4 hours, driving about 124 km. A similar time (approximately 1.4 hours) will be taken by the route from the Czech city of České Budějovice, the length of which is around 98.5 km.

Drivers departing from Salzburg should expect a journey lasting about 1.6 hours to cover 134 km. If you prefer not to drive, you can use a taxi or transfer service, but keep in mind that intercity rates in Austria can be significant.

Linz is a welcoming and safe city, but a little preparation will make your journey even more comfortable. Follow these simple recommendations to feel confident in the capital of Upper Austria.

1. Dress for the weather. The climate here is moderate continental, and the weather can be changeable. Even in summer, it is worth bringing a light jacket or jumper for evening walks along the Danube, and comfortable footwear is essential for exploring the cobblestone streets.
2. Public transport. The city transport system works like clockwork. It is best to use trams and buses for getting around; it is more economical to purchase a 24-hour pass or the Linz Card, which also offers discounts to museums.
3. Finances and payment. The currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but small bakeries or kiosks may request cash, so keep some small notes with you.
4. Language barrier. The official language is German; the local dialect might sound slightly unfamiliar. However, the level of English proficiency among locals is very high, especially in the tourism and service sectors.
5. Etiquette and politeness. When entering a shop or cafe, it is customary to greet people with the phrase "Grüß Gott" (Grüß Gott). Austrians value punctuality and reserve, so try not to be late for meetings or excursions.
6. Water and health. Tap water is of excellent quality and is safe to drink. Pharmacies are marked with a red letter "A", and the standard of medical care meets high European standards.
7. Observing rules. Avoid crossing the road in unauthorised places or against a red light—high fines are prescribed for this. Also, avoid making noise in public places, especially on Sunday, which is considered a day of rest.
8. Gastronomic souvenir. Be sure to try the authentic Linzer Torte (Linzer Torte)—the oldest known cake recipe in the world. It is not just a dessert, but a true symbol of the city.

Observing these simple rules will help you adapt faster and get the maximum pleasure from getting to know the culture and atmosphere of the city.