Austria is a landlocked country, but it is blessed with an abundance of stunning lakes that offer breathtaking scenery, recreational opportunities, and cultural immersion. From crystal-clear mountain lakes to vast turquoise reservoirs, Austria’s lakes are a true natural treasure. In this article, we present the 10 best lakes in Austria, providing detailed information about their location, activities, culture, transportation, and accommodation options to help you plan your perfect lakeside getaway.
Lake Constance: A Majestic Tripartite Wonder
Nestled on the border of Austria, Switzerland, and Germany, Lake Constance is the third-largest lake in Central Europe. Its vast expanse offers a breathtaking panorama of rolling hills, snow-capped peaks, and picturesque towns. Explore the charming medieval city of Lindau, hike through the scenic Pfänder Mountain, or enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the lake’s idyllic shoreline.
Culture: The region around Lake Constance has a rich cultural heritage, boasting historic castles, monasteries, and charming towns.
Transportation: Lake Constance is easily accessible by train or bus from major cities in Austria, Switzerland, and Germany. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A wide range of accommodation options are available around Lake Constance, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Lake Attersee: The Emerald Jewel of the Salzkammergut
Located in the heart of the Salzkammergut region, Lake Attersee is renowned for its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and towering mountains. Swim, sail, or kayak in the crystal-clear lake, or embark on a scenic hike through the surrounding hills. Admire the stunning panoramic views from the Schafbergbahn, a historic cogwheel railway that ascends to the summit of Schafberg Mountain.
Culture: The Salzkammergut region is steeped in history and tradition, with charming villages, historic churches, and traditional festivals.
Transportation: Lake Attersee is easily accessible by train or bus from Salzburg or Linz. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A variety of accommodation options are available around Lake Attersee, including cozy guesthouses, family-friendly apartments, and upscale resorts.
Lake Wolfgangsee: A Picturesque Alpine Paradise
Surrounded by towering mountains and quaint villages, Lake Wolfgangsee is a stunning alpine gem. Cruise on the scenic Wolfgangsee Schifffahrt, hike through the pristine forests of the Salzkammergut Mountains, or visit the charming town of St. Wolfgang, known for its pilgrimage church and traditional architecture.
Culture: The region around Lake Wolfgangsee is home to a vibrant cultural scene, with traditional music and dance festivals, as well as art galleries and museums.
Transportation: Lake Wolfgangsee is easily accessible by train or bus from Salzburg or Vienna. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A range of accommodation options are available around Lake Wolfgangsee, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels.
Lake Millstätter See: A Tranquil Oasis in Carinthia
Located in the southern Austrian state of Carinthia, Lake Millstätter See is a tranquil oasis surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. Indulge in water sports, relax on the pristine beaches, or explore the charming town of Millstatt with its historic architecture and picturesque harbor.
Culture: The region around Lake Millstätter See has a rich cultural heritage, with medieval castles, traditional villages, and vibrant folk festivals.
Transportation: Lake Millstätter See is accessible by train or bus from Klagenfurt or Salzburg. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A variety of accommodation options are available around Lake Millstätter See, including family-friendly apartments, cozy guesthouses, and upscale resorts.
Lake Grundlsee: A Pristine Gem in the Styrian Alps
Nestled in the picturesque Styrian Alps, Lake Grundlsee offers a serene escape surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. Hike or bike along the scenic lakeside trails, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or visit the charming village of Grundlsee, known for its traditional houses and local crafts.
Culture: The region around Lake Grundlsee is steeped in ancient traditions and folklore, with charming villages, historic churches, and traditional festivals.
Transportation: Lake Grundlsee is accessible by train or bus from Graz or Salzburg. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A range of accommodation options are available around Lake Grundlsee, from budget-friendly guesthouses to upscale resorts.
Lake Faaker See: A Turquoise Paradise in Carinthia
Located near the Italian border in Carinthia, Lake Faaker See is renowned for its stunning turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and picturesque mountains. Swim, sail, or kayak in the warm, crystal-clear lake, or explore the charming villages of Finkenstein and Faak, known for their traditional architecture and local cuisine.
Culture: The region around Lake Faaker See has a strong cultural identity, with traditional music and dance festivals, as well as local crafts and culinary specialties.
Transportation: Lake Faaker See is accessible by train or bus from Klagenfurt or Salzburg. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A variety of accommodation options are available around Lake Faaker See, including family-friendly apartments, cozy guesthouses, and upscale resorts.
Lake Wörthersee: A Glamorous Getaway in Carinthia
Known as the “Austrian Riviera,” Lake Wörthersee is a glamorous destination surrounded by rolling hills and lush forests. Indulge in water sports, relax on the pristine beaches, or explore the charming town of Velden, known for its luxury hotels, casinos, and vibrant nightlife.
Culture: The region around Lake Wörthersee is home to a lively cultural scene, with music festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional folk events.
Transportation: Lake Wörthersee is accessible by train or bus from Klagenfurt or Salzburg. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A wide range of accommodation options are available around Lake Wörthersee, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels and private villas.
Lake Hallstätter See: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Nestled in the heart of the Dachstein Mountains, Lake Hallstätter See is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning scenery and historic villages. Take a scenic boat trip on the lake, hike through the pristine forests of Dachstein National Park, or visit the charming village of Hallstatt, known for its traditional houses and ancient salt mines.
Culture: The region around Lake Hallstätter See has a rich history dating back to the Bronze Age, with archaeological sites, historic churches, and traditional crafts.
Transportation: Lake Hallstätter See is accessible by train or bus from Salzburg or Vienna. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A range of accommodation options are available around Lake Hallstätter See, from family-friendly apartments to cozy guesthouses and upscale hotels.
Lake Traunsee: A Scenic Haven in the Salzkammergut
Located in the heart of the Salzkammergut region, Lake Traunsee is a scenic haven surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. Swim, sail, or kayak in the crystal-clear lake, or explore the charming town of Gmunden, known for its historic architecture and beautiful ceramics.
Culture: The region around Lake Traunsee has a vibrant cultural scene, with music festivals, art exhibitions, and traditional folk events.
Transportation: Lake Traunsee is accessible by train or bus from Salzburg or Linz. There is also a regular ferry service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A range of accommodation options are available around Lake Traunsee, from budget-friendly guesthouses to family-friendly apartments and upscale resorts.
Lake Weissensee: A Winter Wonderland in Carinthia
Nestled in the heart of the Gailtal Alps, Lake Weissensee is a mesmerizing winter wonderland. During the colder months, the lake freezes over, creating a vast natural ice rink. Enjoy ice skating, cross-country skiing, or ice fishing on the pristine surface, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and sparkling forests.
Culture: The region around Lake Weissensee has a strong cultural identity, with traditional music and dance festivals, as well as local crafts and culinary specialties.
Transportation: Lake Weissensee is accessible by train or bus from Klagenfurt or Salzburg. There is also a regular bus service connecting the various towns around the lake.
Accommodation: A range of accommodation options are available around Lake
