Villach

Europe

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Austria

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Villach

Villach, a city in southern Austria, is bathed in a relaxed, Mediterranean atmosphere. With around 65,000 residents, it's the second largest city in Carinthia and sits near the borders of Italy and Slovenia. Visitors are drawn to its charming city center, beautiful lakes, and nearby mountains.

The city itself offers a taste of history with its main square featuring St. Jakob's Church with its panoramic views. You can also find a giant 3D model of Carinthia at Schillerpark. On the outskirts, modern thermal baths provide a chance to unwind.

But the real stars of the show are just outside the city limits. Numerous lakes like Faak, Ossiach, and Woerth are popular for swimming, boating, and cycling, all within a half hour drive. For those seeking adventure, the surrounding mountains offer incredible hiking opportunities, with Dobratsch Mountain being reachable via a scenic toll road. The Gerlitzen mountain boasts a cable car with stunning views of Lake Ossiach and transforms into a winter wonderland for skiers and snowboarders.

Travel Tips for Villach Stadt

What you need to know before traveling here

Getting Around Villach

A guide to Villach's local transportation

Walk

StadtBahn

Bus

Car

Exploring Villach offers a variety of options depending on your pace and preference. The city itself is compact and pedestrian-friendly. Hauptstrasse, the main street, is a vibrant pedestrian zone lined with colorful buildings. Exploring the charming side streets and remnants of the old city walls is best done on foot.

Practical Tips for Villach

Things to prepare and best way to visit

How do I get to Villach?

While Villach has its own airport, Klagenfurt Airport (KLU) might be easier to reach with more flight options. But, we recommend flying into Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE), even though it's farther away at 169.7 kilometers compared to Klagenfurt. This is because Venice is a major international hub, offering a wider selection of flights and potentially better prices.

Luckily, the distance between Venice and Villach is easily manageable by bus. Several companies operate this route, with the journey taking approximately 2 hours and 55 minutes. This allows for a comfortable connection between your flight and your final destination in Villach, letting you enjoy the scenic landscapes along the way.

How much is the train from Vienna to Villach?

Traveling from Vienna to Villach offers a choice between speed and affordability. Trains are the clear winner for those seeking the fastest option, whisking you between the two cities in roughly 4 hours and 24 minutes. The journey covers 161 miles (259 kilometers) and typically operates two trains daily, some with direct service. Tickets are surprisingly budget-friendly, with prices starting as low as €20 (around $26).

However, if you're on a tighter budget and don't mind a slightly longer travel time, then taking the bus might be a better option. While buses take an additional hour and a half (roughly 5 hours and 48 minutes), they offer fares ranging from €30 to €45. This can be a significant saving, especially if you're traveling on a tight budget. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your priorities - speed or affordability.

How far is Klagenfurt from Villach?

The two Austrian cities are separated by a mere 40 kilometers, making it a convenient and quick trip. This short distance makes taxis a viable option, although a bit pricey. You can expect a taxi ride to take around 30 minutes and cost between €110 and €140. For cheaper options, there are trains and buses.

How good is public transport in Villach?

Villach offers a convenient public transport system for getting around the city and exploring its surroundings. The mainstays are the StadtBahn, a tram-like railway, and buses. The StadtBahn runs every 30 or 60 minutes, connecting major points within Villach. Buses provide wider coverage and go to nearby towns and villages. While service may be less frequent on Sundays and holidays, overall, public transport in Villach is a reliable and affordable way to navigate the city and its charming region.

What is Villach known for?

Villach offers a surprising mix for visitors. Historic gems like St. Jakob's Church and the rebuilt town hall showcase its past. It's also Carinthia's commercial center and a railway hub. Modern industries like electronics and chemicals thrive alongside breweries and food production. Nearby Warmbad Villach is famous for its mineral baths, and Villach itself is the gateway to the stunning Kärnten lake district. History, industry, and natural beauty - Villach has it all.