Linz is just a stone’s throw from Vienna – and yet there was more for the Stadtpiraten to discover there than we expected! If you’re in the mood for new adventures, you should definitely keep reading. Here are our very own Top 10 tips for a family-friendly weekend in Linz:

1. Ars Electronica Center

A real future lab! The Ars Electronica Center excites both young and old with fascinating exhibitions on technology, art, and science. We especially loved the Children’s Research Lab – here you can touch, experiment, and be amazed.

Note: The Deep Space 8K was a bit overwhelming for our toddler, and the AI x Music installation was quite loud – so better pack ear protection!

2. Donaulände

A walk along the Danube is a must! Along the Donaulände there are countless ships to admire.

We walked past the Lentos Art Museum to the Donaulände Playground – a real insider tip for toddlers.

On the other side of the river, the Dam Playground awaits little pirates with a huge adventure playground – with all the equipment the heart desires.

3. Castle Museum

The best way to reach the Castle Museum is with the Castle Lift – the tunnel entrance alone is a little adventure!

The museum itself is huge. For children, the Technology and Nature sections are especially exciting and hands-on – including a giant shark model (which was supposedly twice as big in real life!).

4. Castle Hill

Afterwards, it’s worth taking a walk up Castle Hill.

At the top, there’s a small but nice playground with a great view – but hardly any shade. So don’t forget your sun hat!

5. Pleschinger Lake

Take Bus 33 directly from the city center to Pleschinger Lake.

There’s a nice playground and a sandy beach by the water – perfect for hot days.

The lake itself is not the cleanest – so better be cautious when paddling!

6. Pöstlingberg

The landmark of Linz! The ride on the Pöstlingberg Railway is an adventure in itself. At the tourist information office on the main square, there’s a convenient combination ticket for 24 hours of city transport including the uphill and downhill ride.

Tip: On public holidays, it’s best to ride early – otherwise the train can get very crowded.

7. Grotto Railway

The Grotto Railway on Pöstlingberg is a magical experience – with lovingly designed fairytale scenes and an underground dwarf world.

However: Our child found some of the figures a bit spooky – and we also thought that the design was somewhat dated.

8. Linz Zoo

Halfway up to Pöstlingberg lies the charming Linz Zoo with animals from the Alpine region. Since the mountain railway was overcrowded, we took Bus 150 – a good alternative! The zoo is small but lovely – and especially suitable for children.

9. Playground in Volksgarten

Between the main station and the old town lies the Volksgarten with a great playground. There’s a water play area and tall climbing towers – perfect for burning off energy before or after the train.

10. Weikerlsee

Those who take the longer tram ride to SolarCity will be rewarded: From there, it’s only a few minutes’ walk to Weikerlsee – with a beautiful sandy beach and great playgrounds surrounded by nature.

Our favorite spot in Linz – hardly known, but absolutely worth it!

Water playground – not beautiful, but fun is guaranteed:

Motor skills park for the older kids:

Conclusion

Linz completely surprised us! The city is full of little treasures – especially for families with children. And since it’s so quick to reach from Vienna, Linz is perfect for a weekend trip.

Have you already been to Linz or do you even live there? What insider tips do you have? Feel free to post them in the comments – the treasure hunt continues!