Best Places to Visit in Carinthia | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Carinthia Travel Guide
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Welcome to Carinthia, Austria! Nestled in the southern part of the country, Carinthia is a picturesque region known for its stunning landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and charming alpine villages. With its mild climate and abundance of outdoor activities, Carinthia is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to hike through the majestic Nockberge Mountains, relax on the shores of Lake Worthersee, or explore the medieval town of Klagenfurt, Carinthia offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Additionally, the region is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, with numerous castles, museums, and traditional festivals that showcase Carinthia's fascinating history. So pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Carinthia, Austria!
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Best Places To Visit in Carinthia
1. Klagenfurt: The capital city of Carinthia, Klagenfurt is a charming destination known for its picturesque setting on the shores of Lake Worthersee. The city boasts a rich history, with its well-preserved old town featuring beautiful Renaissance buildings and a stunning cathedral. Visitors can explore the Minimundus, a miniature park showcasing famous landmarks from around the world, or relax in the Lendkanal, a canal lined with cafes and restaurants. Klagenfurt also hosts various cultural events throughout the year, including the Ingeborg Bachmann Prize, a renowned literary competition.
2. Villach: Situated on the Drau River, Villach is a vibrant town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and cultural attractions. The town is famous for its annual Villacher Fasching, a lively carnival that attracts thousands of visitors. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the proximity to the Dobratsch Nature Park, where they can hike through stunning alpine landscapes and enjoy breathtaking views from the summit. Villach also boasts a well-preserved medieval old town, featuring charming cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and the impressive Villach Castle.
3. Bad Kleinkirchheim: Nestled in the heart of the Nockberge Mountains, Bad Kleinkirchheim is a popular spa and wellness destination. The town is renowned for its thermal baths and wellness centers, offering a range of treatments and relaxation options. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing in the nearby Bad Kleinkirchheim-St. Oswald Ski Resort. The town is also home to the Kaiserburg Castle, a medieval fortress that provides panoramic views of the surrounding area.
4. Worthersee: Located in the southern part of Carinthia, Worthersee is a stunning lake that attracts visitors with its crystal-clear waters and idyllic surroundings. The lake offers numerous opportunities for water sports, including swimming, sailing, and stand-up paddleboarding. The Pyramidenkogel Tower, a 100-meter-high observation tower, provides breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Worthersee is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs lining the shores.
5. Gmund: Situated in the scenic Lieser Valley, Gmund is a small town with a rich cultural heritage. The town is famous for its medieval Gmund Castle, which now houses a museum showcasing contemporary art and design. Visitors can explore the charming old town, with its well-preserved city walls, narrow streets, and historic buildings. Gmund is also a gateway to the Nockberge Biosphere Reserve, a protected area known for its diverse flora and fauna.
6. Feldkirchen: Located in the heart of Carinthia, Feldkirchen is a charming market town surrounded by picturesque landscapes. The town is known for its beautiful St. Veit Church, a Gothic masterpiece dating back to the 15th century. Visitors can explore the town's historic center, with its colorful facades and quaint shops. Feldkirchen also offers easy access to the nearby Ossiacher See, a scenic lake perfect for swimming, boating, and fishing.
7. Velden am Worthersee: Situated on the western shore of Lake Worthersee, Velden am Worthersee is a popular tourist destination known for its luxurious hotels, casinos, and vibrant nightlife. The town's promenade, known as the Seecorso, is lined with upscale shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can relax on the town's public beach, enjoy water sports on the lake, or try their luck at the Casino Velden. Velden am Worthersee also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year.
8. Spittal an der Drau: Located on the banks of the Drau River, Spittal an der Drau is a historic town with a rich cultural heritage. The town is home to the impressive Porcia Castle, a Renaissance palace known for its beautiful courtyard and frescoes. Visitors can explore the town's charming old town, with its narrow streets, colorful facades, and historic buildings. Spittal an der Drau also offers easy access to the nearby Millstatter See, a picturesque lake surrounded by mountains.
9. Villach-Alpe-Adria: Situated at the crossroads of three countries (Austria, Italy, and Slovenia), Villach-Alpe-Adria is a unique destination that offers a diverse range of attractions. The town is known for its lively atmosphere, with numerous events and festivals taking place throughout the year. Visitors can explore the town's historic center, visit the Villacher Brauhof brewery, or take a scenic boat trip on the Drau River. Villach-Alpe-Adria is also a great starting point for exploring the nearby Julian Alps and the Karawanks mountain range.
10. Millstatt: Located on the shores of Lake Millstatt, Millstatt is a picturesque town known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. The town is home to the Millstatt Abbey, a former Benedictine monastery that now houses a museum and hosts various cultural events. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lake promenade, visit the Romanesque Church of St. Peter, or relax on the town's public beach. Millstatt also offers easy access to hiking trails in the surrounding mountains, providing stunning views of the lake and the alpine landscapes.
Hotels Map Of Carinthia
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Food & Drinks To Try In Carinthia
1. Karntner Kasnudeln: This traditional Carinthian dish consists of pasta pockets filled with a mixture of potatoes, onions, and cheese. It is typically served with melted butter and a sprinkle of fresh herbs.
2. Reindling: Reindling is a sweet, yeast-based cake that is popular in Carinthia. It is made with a dough that is flavored with cinnamon, sugar, and raisins, and then rolled up and baked until golden brown. It is often enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea.
3. Karntner Laxn: Karntner Laxn is a type of smoked salmon that is native to Carinthia. It is traditionally prepared by smoking the salmon over beechwood, which gives it a unique and delicious flavor. It can be enjoyed on its own or used as a topping for bread or crackers.
4. Gailtaler Speck: Gailtaler Speck is a type of cured bacon that is produced in the Gail Valley region of Carinthia. It is made from the meat of locally raised pigs and is seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices before being smoked and air-dried. It is often sliced thin and enjoyed as a snack or used as a flavorful addition to various dishes.
5. Carinthian Trout: Carinthia is known for its pristine lakes and rivers, which are home to an abundance of trout. Freshly caught Carinthian trout is a must-try for seafood lovers. It can be prepared in various ways, such as grilled, pan-fried, or baked, and is often served with a side of buttery potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
6. Glundner Kase: Glundner Kase is a soft, spreadable cheese that is made from cow's milk. It has a tangy and slightly sour taste, which makes it a perfect addition to sandwiches or as a topping for bread. It is often enjoyed with a glass of local Carinthian wine.
7. Carinthian Beer: Carinthia has a rich brewing tradition, and trying the local beers is a must for beer enthusiasts. Some popular Carinthian breweries include Villacher Bier, Hirter Bier, and Wimitzbrau. These breweries produce a variety of beers, ranging from light and refreshing lagers to rich and flavorful dark beers.
8. Carinthian Schnapps: Carinthia is also known for its production of high-quality schnapps. These fruit brandies are made from locally grown fruits, such as apples, pears, plums, and cherries. They are typically enjoyed as a digestif after a meal or used in cocktails.
9. Carinthian Herbal Teas: Carinthia is home to a wide variety of herbs and plants that are used to make flavorful and aromatic herbal teas. Some popular herbal teas in Carinthia include chamomile, peppermint, lemon balm, and sage. These teas are not only delicious but also have various health benefits.
10. Carinthian Wine: Carinthia has a small but growing wine industry, with vineyards located in the southern part of the region. The mild climate and fertile soil create ideal conditions for growing grapes. Some popular Carinthian wines include white varieties such as Welschriesling and Sauvignon Blanc, as well as red varieties like Blaufrankisch and Zweigelt. These wines can be enjoyed on their own or paired with local dishes.
Best Time To Visit Carinthia
The best time to visit Carinthia, Austria is during the summer months of June, July, and August. This is when the region experiences its warmest temperatures and longest days, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and exploring the lakes. Additionally, July and August are the months when Carinthia hosts various festivals and events, offering visitors a chance to experience the local culture and traditions. However, it's important to note that summer is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly experience, late spring and early autumn can also be great times to visit Carinthia, as the weather is still pleasant and there are fewer tourists.
Flight Calendar For Carinthia
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Transportation To Carinthia
There are several transportation options to Carinthia, Austria:
1. By Air: The nearest international airport is Klagenfurt Airport (KLU), which is located in the capital city of Carinthia. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to your destination within Carinthia.
2. By Train: Carinthia is well-connected by train services. You can take a train from major cities in Austria or neighboring countries to reach Carinthia. The main train stations in Carinthia are Klagenfurt Hauptbahnhof and Villach Hauptbahnhof.
3. By Bus: There are bus services that connect Carinthia with other cities in Austria and neighboring countries. You can check the schedules and book tickets online or at the bus stations.
4. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can reach Carinthia by car. The region is well-connected by highways and roads. You can rent a car from major cities or airports and drive to Carinthia.
5. By Ferry: Carinthia has access to Lake Worthersee, and there are ferry services available to reach different towns and villages around the lake. This option is more suitable if you are already in the region or planning to explore the lake area.
Once you are in Carinthia, you can use public transportation, such as buses and trains, to get around the region. Taxis and rental cars are also available for more convenience and flexibility.