What is Villach?
The charming town at the confluence of the Drau and Gail rivers awaits you with a fascinating mix of natural beauty and cultural wealth. Set amidst the breathtaking mountain scenery of the Alps, Villach not only offers picturesque surroundings, but also a rich history and a variety of activities.
Brief information:
- Where is Villach located? Stast is located in the south of Austria and is Klagenfurt the second largest city in Carinthia.
- How many inhabitants does it have? approx. 61,000
- How do I get there? Villach is easily accessible by car, train and plane. The nearest airport is the airport Klagenfurt.
- How much time should I allow? You should discover everything important on a day trip.
General information about Villach
The traditional town of 61,000 inhabitants is considered by many to be the most beautiful town in Carinthia. To the Lake Wörthersee is only a stone's throw away. More popular with the locals is the nearby Lake Faak. Lake Ossiach and the Nockberge mountains lie to the east of Villach. Villach's local mountain, however, is the Dobratsch. If you have time, we definitely recommend an excursion via one of the most beautiful panoramic roads in Austria. And 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 cafés. The pedestrianised zone is a wonderful place to stroll around during the day or in the evening.
Worth seeing here are the Hotel Post (now Palais 26), where Charles V once stayed, and the Paracelsushof with its two-storey Renaissance arcades
The highlights?
The Villach parish tower (of the parish church of St Jakob)
It was built in the late 14th century. At 94 metres, the free-standing church tower is the highest in Carinthia. It can even be climbed over 239 steps. From the top you have a marvellous panoramic view over Villach, the Dobratsch and even to the ruins of Landskron Castle on the Lake Ossiach.
Another highlight is the Main square of Villachwhere you can see the historical Town hall and the beautiful Church of the Assumption find. The main square is the ideal place to sit down in one of the cosy cafés and watch the hustle and bustle of the city.
Church of the Holy Cross
The façade of this church looks more like a sugar biscuit. Built in 1751, the building glows pink and white in the sun. This baroque building is a splendour from the outside as well as the inside.
An overview of the history
The history of Villach goes back a long way. The first documented mention of the town dates back to the 11th century. Over the centuries, Villach became an important trading centre and was an important hub for trade between Austria, Italy and Slovenia.
The town suffered severe damage during the Second World War, but was rebuilt in the years that followed and developed into a modern and lively town. Today, Villach is a popular tourist destination that impresses visitors with its rich history and natural beauty.