Villach – Charming city between the Alps and lakes
Villach is a picturesque town in the south of Austria, nestled between the imposing Alps and numerous crystal-clear lakes. It impresses with its historic town centre, a lively culture and its proximity to nature, which enables numerous leisure activities. Whether hiking, cycling or a relaxing day at the lake - Villach has something for everyone.
Short info:
- Where is Villach? The city is located in the south of Austria and is Klagenfurt the second largest city in Carinthia.
- How many inhabitants does it have? about 61,000
- How do I get there? Villach is easily accessible by car, train and plane. The nearest airport is Klagenfurt.
- How much time should I plan for? You should discover everything important on a day trip.
General information about Villach
The traditional town with 61,000 inhabitants is considered by many to be the most beautiful town in Carinthia. Wörthersee It is only a stone's throw away. More popular with the locals is the nearby Lake FaakTo the east of Villach lies Lake Ossiach and the Nockberge. Villach's local mountain, however, is the Dobratsch. If you have time, we definitely recommend a trip over one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in AustriaAnd what would Villach be without its famous carnival…
The main attraction of Carinthia's second largest city is the main square with its numerous street cafes. The pedestrian zone is a wonderful place to stroll during the day or in the evening.
Worth seeing here are the Hotel Post (now Palais 26), where Charles V once stayed, or the Paracelsushof with its two-storey Renaissance arcades.
The highlights?
The Villach Parish Tower (the parish church of St. Jakob)
It was built in the late 14th century. At 94m, the free-standing church tower is the highest in Carinthia. You can even climb it via 239 steps. From the top you have a wonderful panoramic view of Villach, the Dobratsch and even to the castle ruins of Landskron on Lake Ossiach.
Another highlight is the main square of Villach, where you can see the historical City hall and the beautiful Church of the Assumption of Mary The main square is the ideal place to sit down in one of the cozy cafes and watch the hustle and bustle of the city.
Church of the Holy Cross: The facade of this church looks more like a sugar pastry. The building, built in 1751, shines pink and white in the sun. This baroque building is a splendor both inside and out.
An overview of the history
The history of Villach goes back a long way. The first documented mention of the city dates back to the 11th century. Over the centuries, Villach became an important trading center and was a significant hub for trade between Austria, Italy and Slovenia.
The city suffered severe damage during World War II, but was rebuilt in the years that followed and developed into a modern and vibrant city. Today, Villach is a popular tourist destination that impresses visitors with its rich history and natural beauty.
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