Things to Do in Villach

On the southern bank of Lake Ossiach (Ossiacher See) lies Ossiach, the largest village in the area and home to an 11th-century Benedictine abbey (Stift Ossiach) that was rebuilt in the 16th century. The former Abbey Church of the Assumption is now the local parish church, and was remodeled in Baroque style in the 18th century. Highlights include its superb stucco decoration and wall and ceiling paintings from 1750, as well as the Late Gothic winged altar in the northwest chapel depicting the Madonna with Child.

Lake Faak (Faaker See) is an easy drive seven kilometers southeast of Villach. Located at the foot of the 2,143-meter-tall Mittagskogel, the lake measures 2.6 kilometers long and 1.7 kilometers wide and is notable for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, which drain into the River Gail. It's a favorite spot for sunbathing due to its average summer temperatures of 27 degrees Celsius.

Just three kilometers from Villach, on the old town's southern outskirts, lies the famous spa of Warmbad Villach. Sitting at an elevation of 501 meters, the spa's warm mineral springs are noted for their treatment of rheumatism, circulatory disorders, and nervous diseases.

The best way to see the Villacher Alpes up close is via the Villach Alpine Road. This spectacular 17-kilometer toll road winds its way from Villach high up to the 2,166-meter Dobratsch, the region's highest peak and a popular natural park and tourist attraction. Along with the dramatic panoramic views of Villach, the road leads to the 1,732-meter Rosstratte, with its views from the Julian Alps all the way to the Karawanken mountains and the Carinthian lake plateau.

Founded in 1873, the Museum of the City of Villach (Museum der Stadt Villach) is one of the largest and oldest municipal museums in Austria. It boasts a large collection of regional artwork and artifacts from prehistoric to modern times. Highlights include its collection of rare gold and silver coins, as well as its fun tour of the reconstructed battlements along a section of the old town walls.

A great diversion for those traveling with kids is Monkey Mountain, or Affenberg Zoo (Affenberg Landskron). Located just a few minutes' drive outside Villach, this fun family attraction can be enjoyed as part of an informative guided tour, led by experts, on the care of these fascinating creatures.

Exploring Villach's many fine old churches is a great way to get to know the layout of the city. Of its numerous other old places of worship, one of the most impressive is the Holy Cross Church (Heiligenkreuzkirche). Located just a 10-minute walk east of the Church of St. Jakob, this elegant building certainly stands out for its coral pink exterior.

Just a three-minute stroll from the Hauptplatz, the historic Parish Church of St. Jakob (Stadtpfarrkirche St. Jakob) makes for an easy first stop on your Villach travel itinerary. This three-aisled, 14th-century Gothic hall church is notable for its narrow choir and 95-meter-tall tower linked to the main building by an arched gateway. A highlight of your visit should be making the climb up the tower's 239 steps for the excellent views over the old town.

Straddling the River Drau and connected by several bridges, Villach's old town center is one of the most picturesque in southern Austria. A good way to begin your Villach adventure - and certainly a great way to get your bearings, taking notes of places to visit later - is exploring the long Main Square (Hauptplatz). This attractive historic square cuts across the middle of the old town and is linked by the main bridge over the Drau at its northern end.