Wörthersee is a stunning turquoise lake surrounded by mountains near Villach, in the Austrian region of Carinthia. In this guide, we’ll show you the best things to do at Wörthersee, from scenic viewpoints to lakeside experiences.
Take a dip in the warm, clear waters, enjoy panoramic views from the Pyramidenkogel, or visit the macaques at the nearby animal reserve.
What’s inside this article:
Whether you’re planning a summer getaway or a short road trip, here are our top recommendations for a lakeside holiday: activities around Wörthersee, local food, where to swim, where to stay, and useful travel tips.
14 Best Things to Do at Wörthersee
1. Swimming at Wörthersee
Wörthersee is one of the best lakes in Austria for summer activities. In the warmer months, the lake reaches an average temperature of 25 °C, and its crystal-clear water is ideal for swimming, windsurfing, water skiing, and other water sports.
Most beaches around the lake are either private or paid. The paid ones are well-maintained, grassy, and offer shady areas along with easy access to the water. At larger beaches, you can rent boats or pedal boats to explore the lake from a different perspective.
Family-friendly beaches can be found in Velden, Schiefling, Krumpendorf, Pörtschach am Wörthersee, Reifnitz, and especially in Klagenfurt, which is one of the most popular places on the lake.
Many hotels and apartments around Wörthersee have their own private beaches or access to beach clubs. If you’re specifically looking for lakes with public beaches, you might want to check out Achensee in Tyrol as an alternative.
🏡 Where to stay at Wörthersee
These accommodations include the Wörthersee Plus Card, which offers free entry or discounts to local attractions. Guests receive the card upon arrival, along with a leaflet explaining the included benefits. The card is valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
2. Boat trip on Wörthersee
Taking a boat cruise on Lake Wörthersee is a great way to explore the area. The cruises connect the main towns and attractions around the lake and are operated by Wörthersee Schifffahrt. The fleet includes the historic Thalia, one of the oldest boats on the lake, as well as the modern solar-electric boat Maria Wörth.
During the cruise, you’ll enjoy scenic views of the surrounding Carinthian landscape – from alpine hills and green forests to picturesque lakeside villages.
Here are the main marinas around Lake Wörthersee:
Boats operate daily from April to the end of October. There are several ticket options available – from single rides to day and weekly passes. With the Wörthersee Plus Card, you’ll get 40% off a day ticket.
Seniors over 65, children aged 6 and up (children under 6 travel free), and people with disabilities are also eligible for discounted fares.
For up-to-date prices and timetables, visit the official Wörthersee Schifffahrt website.
3. Promenade in Velden
The area around Wörthersee is beautifully maintained, and many towns feature lakeside promenades lined with colourful flowers, benches, and moored boats. One of the nicest promenades is in Velden, where you’ll also find restaurants, a park, and a playground.
Other lovely promenades can be found in Reifnitz, Pörtschach am Wörthersee, Krumpendorf, and of course in Klagenfurt, the capital of the Wörthersee region.
4. Park Minimundus
Minimundus is a miniature park where you can see more than 160 scaled-down versions of famous landmarks from around the world – from the Eiffel Tower to the Taj Mahal. The models are set in a landscaped park in Klagenfurt, on the shores of Lake Wörthersee.
Practical info: You’ll find current admission prices and opening hours on the official website. Free parking is available right next to the park. Note that Park Minimundus is not included in the Kärnten Card.
5. Klagenfurt
Minimundus Park is located in Klagenfurt, the largest city on Lake Wörthersee and one of the biggest in Carinthia. It sits on the eastern shore of the lake and features a beautiful promenade and a popular beach area.
While you’re here, take a walk through the historic old town, known for its dragon fountain that spouts water. The surrounding streets are lined with colourful historic houses and the impressive Klagenfurt Cathedral, which opens onto a spacious square.
6. Pyramidenkogel
Pyramidenkogel is one of the top places to visit near Wörthersee, and a must for anyone who enjoys views and light hikes. It’s the tallest wooden observation tower in the world, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
The tower stands at 920 metres above sea level in the southern part of Lake Wörthersee. You can drive all the way to the site – there’s a large parking area. The observation platform is accessible by elevator or stairs, and there’s even a slide for the way down (extra charge).
At the top, you’ll also find a small exhibition about the tower’s construction and a restaurant. Here you can find up-to-date information about entrance fees and opening hours. Pyramidenkogel is included in the Kärnten Card (free entry), and with the Wörthersee Plus Card, you’ll get 20% off the admission fee.
🏡 Where to stay in Carinthia
These accommodations include a free Kärnten Card, which gives you access to cable cars and local attractions. The card is issued automatically to all guests staying at least one night, and is valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
7. Maria Wörth
Maria Wörth is a picturesque village on the southern shore of Lake Wörthersee, best known for its two beautiful Romanesque churches – the Church of St. Primus and Felician, and the Winterkirche. Both churches stand on a small hill on a peninsula that extends directly into the lake.
Even if you arrive by boat, the view is stunning. For a more peaceful experience, visit Maria Wörth in the early morning or late evening, when there are fewer visitors.
8. Tierpark Rosegg
Planning a trip to Wörthersee with kids? Then don’t miss a visit to Tierpark Rosegg, located just a few minutes from Velden. The park is set in a unique location – animals roam freely around the ruins of a castle, with walking paths and benches offering great views of the surroundings.
Practical info: The park also features a restaurant and a playground. For the latest information on admission and opening times, visit the official website.
Read more: Get inspired by the most beautiful places in Carinthia.
9. Landskron and Affenberg Fortress
Landskron Castle is an impressive fortress with panoramic views, located just 20 minutes from Velden am Wörthersee. One of the highlights is the falconry show, where you can watch demonstrations of hunting with birds of prey.
Just a short walk away is Affenberg (“Monkey Mountain”), one of the top attractions in Carinthia. Here, more than 150 Japanese macaques live in semi-wild conditions. Visits are only possible with a guide, who shares interesting facts about the animals during the tour.
10. Villach
Villach is one of the largest cities in Carinthia. It offers excellent facilities and also has a well-preserved historic centre that’s perfect for a relaxed stroll. Take in the colourful façades of the old houses or stop for a bite to eat in one of the local restaurants.
Villach is located just 15 minutes from Velden am Wörthersee, on the western shore of the lake. On the town’s outskirts, you’ll find the KärntenTherme – a modern thermal spa, ideal for rainy days, with water attractions and a large wellness area.
🏡 Where to stay in Carinthia
These accommodations include a free Kärnten Card, which gives you access to cable cars and attractions across the region. All guests automatically receive the card when staying at least one night. It’s valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
11. Dobratsch Nature Park
Looking for great hiking near Wörthersee? Dobratsch Nature Park is a reliable choice – you could easily spend the whole day here.
A convenient way to reach the area is via the Villacher Alpenstraße, a scenic toll road (free with the Kärnten Card). It’s about 16.5 kilometres long and climbs up to 1,732 metres, where you’ll find a car park.
From there, you can hike to the summit of Dobratsch, where there’s a panoramic restaurant with a terrace. The hike takes about 1.5 hours.
There are other parking areas along the road – for example at the Alpine Botanical Garden or the new Rote Wand lookout point. More information is available on the official Villacher Alpenstraße website.
12. Faaker See
Want to visit another beautiful lake in Carinthia? Faaker See is located just a short distance from Wörthersee – around 15 minutes by car or less than an hour by bike.
It’s one of the smallest lakes in the region, which makes the water pleasantly warm – reaching up to 27 °C in summer.
If you’re planning to swim in Faaker See, head to Drobollach, home to one of the lake’s best beaches. Entry is free, and only parking is charged. Another popular spot is the beach at Faak am See, on the southern shore.
For the best views of the lake, take a short walk up to Hochhinauf – Taborhöhe. There’s a rope park with various levels of difficulty, a small snack bar, and a scenic viewpoint over the lake.
More inspiration: Read about other beautiful lakes in Carinthia.
13. Hochosterwitz Castle
Hochosterwitz Castle is one of the most famous castles in Austria. It sits on a limestone hill, 160 metres above the surrounding countryside, around 20 minutes northeast of Klagenfurt.
The castle features well-preserved medieval architecture dating back to the 9th century. According to legend, it was never conquered thanks to its strategic location and clever defensive design. As you approach the castle on foot, you’ll pass through a series of gates – each with unique fortifications and mechanisms.
You can also take a lift from the car park, but you’ll miss the walk through the historic gates.
Practical info: Hochosterwitz Castle is open from April to the end of October, with opening hours depending on the season. Visit the official website for up-to-date information on admission and opening times. Free parking is available at the base of the castle. The Kärnten Card includes free entry (not included with the Wörthersee Plus Card).
🏡 Where to stay in Carinthia
These accommodations include a free Kärnten Card, which gives you access to cable cars and local attractions. All guests receive the card automatically when staying at least one night. Valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
14. Tscheppaschlucht
The Tscheppa Gorge is one of the most beautiful gorges in Carinthia. Water flows between steep, jagged rocks, forming striking cascades and waterfalls.
You can hike the entire gorge on a well-maintained, moderately difficult trail made up of wooden and metal bridges, ladders, and stairs. The most scenic section is near Devil’s Bridge, where you’ll get the best views of the waterfalls.
The walk takes around two hours. At the end of the trail, you’ll reach the Deutscher Peter restaurant, where a shuttle bus runs back to the car park during the high season. Alternatively, you can return the same way on foot.
The path is steep and slippery in places, especially after rain, so it might not be ideal for very young children or less mobile dogs (though they are allowed). Still, it’s a great experience for families with kids – just make sure to wear sturdy shoes.
Admission is €12 for adults (including return bus), €8 for children. Free with the Kärnten Card, 20% discount with the Wörthersee Plus Card. The gorge is open daily from early May to the end of October, from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
There’s a paid car park at the trailhead (€4 in 2023), marked shortly after the village of Unterloibl on your right. Check the official website before your visit for updated bus timetables.
Where to stay at Wörthersee
How to save with the Wörthersee Plus Card
These accommodations include the Wörthersee Plus Card, which gives you free admission or discounts to attractions in the area. You can travel for free by train throughout Carinthia and get discounts to the Pyramidenkogel, forest rope parks, museums and galleries nearby.
If you stay for at least 3 nights, you also get free access to one of the public beaches. You’ll find a list of current discounts when you arrive, either in the Wörthersee Plus Card app or by following this link.
The card is given to all guests on the day of arrival, along with information about the included benefits. Valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
- Hotel Rösch – Popular mid-range hotel with wellness, restaurant and private beach.
- Seepark Wörthersee Resort – Stylish hotel in a quiet location surrounded by nature, with wellness facilities, swimming pool and excellent cuisine.
- ibis Wörthersee – Modern and affordable accommodation with two restaurants, close to the lake, great facilities for families (including a playground).
🏡 Where to stay at Wörthersee
These accommodations include the Wörthersee Plus Card, which offers free entry or discounts to local attractions. Guests receive the card upon arrival, along with a leaflet explaining the included benefits. The card is valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
How to save with the Kärnten Card
In addition to the Wörthersee Plus Card (automatically provided when staying near the lake), you can also use the Kärnten Card – ideal for travellers who plan to explore more of Carinthia beyond just swimming.
The Kärnten Card gives you free access to more than 100 attractions across the region – including cable cars, panoramic roads, funiculars, amusement parks and swimming pools. You’ll also get discounts at over 50 partner locations.
Some accommodations offer the card free of charge with your stay (from just one night). Valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
These places include the Kärnten Card:
- Naturhotel Ortners Eschenhof (our tip) – Family hotel with heated pool and extensive wellness facilities, optional half board, great for couples and families.
- Pension Isabella – Cozy guesthouse at a very good price, friendly owners, rich breakfast and great base for trips and hiking.
- Hotel Kolmhof – Great for couples and families, excellent half board, outdoor pool with large garden and sun loungers, free parking.
- Alpenhotel Badmeister – Family-run guesthouse at a good price, friendly owners, half board, ideal for families.
🏡 Where to stay in Carinthia
These accommodations include a free Kärnten Card, which gives you access to cable cars and local attractions. The card is issued automatically to all guests staying at least one night, and is valid from 5 April to 2 November 2025.
Transportation around Wörthersee
Besides the boat cruises on Wörthersee (see above), the lake is also served by buses and trains, making it easy to get around without a car.
The railway runs along the northern shore of the lake and stops in towns like Velden, Pörtschach, Klagenfurt, and Krumpendorf. The train ride from Velden (westernmost point) to Klagenfurt (eastern end) takes just 20–25 minutes.
With the Wörthersee Plus Card, you can travel free of charge on all regional trains throughout Carinthia – the card is automatically provided when you check in at your hotel.
The south side of the lake, where trains don’t run, is served by Postbus coaches.
To plan your trip, we recommend using ÖBB Scotty, where you can find both train and bus connections and buy tickets in one place.
You can also get around the lake comfortably by car. A scenic regional road circles the entire shoreline, offering great views of the water.
There’s plenty of parking around Wörthersee – often free, or paid only during the high season (usually up to €5 per day).
More information: Discover more of the most beautiful lakes in Austria.
What to taste at Wörthersee, Austria
Freshwater fish like carp, pike, and trout are a staple around Lake Wörthersee. They’re best enjoyed grilled – ideally in Steckerlfisch style: skewered on a wooden stick, grilled over open fire, with crispy skin and tender meat inside.
A typical Carinthian dish is Kärntner Nudeln, handmade pasta pockets similar to ravioli, filled with minced meat, spinach, or cheese. Another local favourite is Kärntner Kasnudeln, usually filled with mashed potatoes, cottage cheese, and herbs – with a distinctive flavour from mint and parsley.
If you’re craving something familiar, the classic Wiener Schnitzel is widely available.
For dessert, try Kaiserschmarrn – a shredded pancake with raisins, sprinkled with icing sugar and served with fruit compote.
You’ll also come across local cheeses and cured meats, often served on alpine pastures. They’re made from high-quality ingredients, usually produced directly on local farms.
Wörthersee Map: Best Things to Do and Places to Visit
Below you’ll find a detailed map of Wörthersee, Austria, with all the places to visit, attractions and things to do mentioned in this guide.
Click the icon in the top left corner to show or hide map layers – you can filter viewpoints, beaches, towns and hiking spots separately. Click on the icons to see the names of individual locations.
To save the map for later, click the star icon. For a larger view, click the square icon in the top right corner.
This was our guide to Wörthersee and our tips for trips and things to see around the lake.
Have any questions? Feel free to ask in the comments below – we’ll be happy to help. Safe travels!
More information about Austria
CARINTHIA: Get inspired by our tips for the best things to do in Carinthia or plan a relaxing holiday at one of the beautiful Carinthian lakes.
AUSTRIAN ALPS: Explore the most beautiful places in the Austrian Alps, with tips for hiking trails, walking routes and scenic viewpoints.
Popular destinations include Tyrol, the Hohe Tauern National Park, the Dachstein mountains or the crystal-clear Lake Achensee.
Read our detailed Zell am See travel guide, including things to do and places to visit.
Or discover the charming Lake Wolfgangsee in the Salzkammergut – another great option for a lake holiday in Austria.
AUSTRIA: Planning a trip to Austria? Take a look at our guide to the most beautiful places in Austria or explore our selection of the most beautiful lakes in Austria.
