Radstadt: Historic town in the heart of Salzburg

Radstadt, often referred to as the “old town in the mountains”, is a charming historic town in the Salzburg region. Surrounded by the impressive Alps, Radstadt offers a perfect mix of history, culture and outdoor activities.

Brief information about Radstadt:

• What is Radstadt? A historic town with medieval charm and an alpine backdrop.
• Where is Radstadt? In Pongau in the state of Salzburg.
• How do I get there? By car via the A10 or by train directly to Radstadt.
• Can I hike there? Yes, there are numerous hiking trails and mountain tours in the area.
• What is the city known for? Medieval architecture, ski resorts and the annual folk festival “Gerdefest”.
• How much time should I allow? At least 2-3 days to explore the city and surroundings.
• Is there accommodation? Yes, from cozy guesthouses to modern hotels.
• What sights are there? The city wall, Lerchen Castle, the Gothic parish church.
• Is Radstadt family-friendly? Yes, with many activities for children and families.
• What other outdoor activities are there? Skiing, cycling, golfing and swimming.

General information about Radstadt

Radstadt, a charming town in the Salzburg region, is known for its rich history and beautiful alpine surroundings. The town is located in the Pongau region, about 70 kilometers south of Salzburg, and is easily accessible via the A10 and the railway. With around 5,000 inhabitants, Radstadt offers a friendly, small-town atmosphere that both tourists and locals appreciate.

The historic town centre

The historic town centre of Radstadt impresses with its well-preserved medieval architecture. One of the main attractions is the impressive city wall, which dates back to the 13th century and surrounds the centre. This wall is almost completely preserved and gives the city a special flair. Within the walls there are numerous historical buildings and sights.

The Parish Church of the Assumption of Mary (Karl-Berg-Gasse 6, 5550 Radstadt) is an impressive example of Gothic architecture and an important part of the townscape. The church, which dates back to the 15th century, impresses with its artistic stained glass windows and the lavishly designed interior. The tall, slender windows and the detailed decorations testify to the craftsmanship of this era.

Another highlight is the Lerchen Castle (Schloßstraße 1, 5550 Radstadt), a historic building that today serves cultural and social purposes. The castle, originally built as a fortification, offers an insight into the eventful history of the region.

The narrow streets of the town center are perfect for strolling. Many of the old houses are well preserved and now house shops, cafés and restaurants that invite you to linger. A visit to one of the two local museums is particularly recommended: one is located in Lerchen Castle and another in one of the three defensive towers that stand at the corners of the city wall: https://www.museen-radstadt.at/

Escape Adventure “The Secret of the Three Towers”

A special highlight in Radstadt is the escape adventure "The Secret of the Three Towers". This game, based on a fictional story, combines historical education with exciting entertainment and is ideal for families, friends or team events. Participants are tasked with solving various puzzles and deciphering clues in order to uncover the secret of the city's three historic towers. This requires not only logical thinking, but also teamwork. The game offers a unique opportunity to get to know Radstadt in an interactive and exciting way.

Here you can find further information

Radstadt in summer

In summer, Radstadt is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding mountains and valleys offer numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels of difficulty. Particularly popular are hikes on the Rossbrand, which offers impressive views of the Dachstein massif and the Tauern. Cyclists also get their money's worth, as there are many mountain bike and cycle paths that lead through the picturesque landscape. Golfers can enjoy an 18-hole golf course that blends harmoniously into the alpine surroundings. In addition, cultural events and festivals are held regularly in summer, enriching community life.

Radstadt in winter

In winter, Radstadt turns into a popular ski resort. As part of the Ski Amadé Region, the city offers access to over 760 kilometres of slopesFamilies and beginners in particular appreciate the well-groomed and varied slopes. In addition to skiing, there are also opportunities for Cross-country skiing (50 km of groomed cross-country ski runs), snowshoe hiking and tobogganing. The ice skating rink in the town centre is another winter hotspot. Radstadt is also known for its cosy Christmas Market, which attracts visitors with traditional products and a festive atmosphere. The snow-covered streets and illuminated buildings create a magical atmosphere that enchants visitors.

What excursions are there in the area?

The area around Radstadt offers numerous excursion options. A popular destination is the Therme Amadé in Altenmarkt, which is only a few kilometers away. Here you can relax in various pools and enjoy the sauna area. A visit to the nearby Schladming, which is known for its winter sports and the annual night race. Nature lovers should take a trip to the Hohe Tauern National Park which attracts with its diverse hiking trails and impressive natural beauties. A day trip to Salzburg is worthwhile and offers a variety of cultural and historical sights.