Top 20 Castles around Linz
Best castles around Linz offer a journey through the region's rich history and diverse landscapes. Situated on the Danube River, Linz provides access to historical fortifications and architectural marvels. The area features a mix of well-preserved castles, ruins, and historical sites, many of which are set amidst natural surroundings. These locations provide insights into Upper Austria's past.
Best castles around Linz
- The most popular castles is Linz Castle, a castle that stands on a hill above the Danube. It houses the Upper Austrian Provincial Museum, showcasing cultural history from the Neolithic Age to the 20th century.
- Another must-see spot is Traun Castle, a castle that has been restored and used in various ways. Visitors can explore a freely accessible exhibition on the castle's history and the nobility.
- Visitors also love Ebelsberg Castle, a historical site with Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architectural styles. It offers an immersive historical experience, including a military history exhibition and an "Schloss Experience 1809" escape room.
- Linz is known for its historical castles, castle ruins, and fortified sites. These structures showcase diverse architectural styles and historical periods, from medieval origins to Napoleonic-era significance.
- The castles around Linz are appreciated by the komoot community, with more than 290 upvotes and over 400 photos shared.
Last updated: May 10, 2026
Linz Castle
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View of Ottensheim and Ottensheim Castle
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Traun Castle
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Reichenau Castle Ruins
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Spilberg Castle Ruins
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Spilberg Castle was once an important moated castle and was originally located on an island in the Danube, which belonged to the municipality of Enns. The castle has always been an important place of refuge and defense throughout its history. The flood of 1796 and the regulation of the Danube in the 19th century changed the course of the river to such an extent that the ruins are now in the floodplain, the Schlossau, near the northern bank of the Danube. In 1997 the area with the northern surrounding area was separated from the municipality of Enns and incorporated into the municipality of Langenstein, Perg district, Upper Austria.
The original name Spilberg later became Spielberg due to the changed spelling. Today the ruin proudly bears its old name again
SPILBERG
but is still referred to differently in many publications.
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Tips from the Community
Ottensheim Castle was founded by the high-free Wilheringers.
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Traun Castle houses a freely accessible exhibition on the history of the castle and the nobility in the ring mantle complex.
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The Linz Castle is located on a hill above the old town district of Linz directly on the Danube.
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A very beautiful old castle in the wonderful Mühlviertel.
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Spilberg Castle Ruins is a historic castle near Langenstein in the Perg district in the Mühlviertel in Upper Austria. The castle is now located in a floodplain landscape, the Schlossau, about 600 meters from the banks of the Danube. The castle was built in the 12th century and was once an important moated castle on an island on the Danube. The castle has a 35 meter high Romanesque crenellated tower and is surrounded by a 16 meter high rampart wall. The Spilberg castle ruins are an interesting excursion destination for history and nature lovers. The “Friends of the Spilberg Castle Ruins” association takes care of the preservation and communication of the castle. You can visit the castle, take guided tours or take part in cultural events such as concerts or theater performances.
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A beautiful water castle, recommended for a break.
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The moated castle was first mentioned around the year 1120 (1111) with B(P)ernhard de Trune. The Trauners were a noble family that was even one of the so-called “apostle families”, but was then relegated to the ministerial status of the Otakare, later the Babenbergs and finally, from 1246, the bishops of Passau. The reason for this is probably the withdrawal of fiefs or a marriage to the “worse hand”, i.e. H. an inappropriate marriage. The brothers Wernhard and Dietrich von Traun were already ministerials. They remained in possession of their ancestral castle until 1630. Then Sigmund Adam von Traun, married to Eva von Pollheim, had to sell his rule to Werner t'Serklaes von Tilly, a nephew of the general Johann T'Serclaes von Tilly, who had already acquired the rule of Tillysburg Castle, because of his Protestant faith. He managed to break the feudal bond and convert Traun into a free property. Sigmund's Catholic son Ernst Graf von Abensperg and Traun (1608–1668) was able to regain possession of the Traun castle and estate in 1664 after a long process. After the imperially confirmed genealogical connection to the Counts of Abensberg and the resulting elevation to the rank of imperial count by Emperor Ferdinand III. Under the name Abensperg and Traun In 1653 the Trauns called themselves Counts of Abensperg and Traun. This family still owns Traun Castle today (Wikipedia).
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which castles around Linz are most popular with visitors?
Among the most popular castles are Linz Castle, which houses the Upper Austrian Provincial Museum and offers magnificent views of the Danube, and Traun Castle, known for its restoration and exhibition on local nobility. Visitors also enjoy Ebelsberg Castle, which provides an immersive historical experience with its military history exhibition and escape room.
Are there family-friendly castles to visit near Linz?
Yes, several castles around Linz are family-friendly. Linz Castle, with its museum and exhibitions, is suitable for all ages. Traun Castle also offers family-friendly aspects, including its historical exhibition. Additionally, while not a traditional castle, Pöstlingberg features the unique Grottenbahn, an underground railway through a fairy-tale world, which is a big hit with children.
What historical periods do the castles around Linz represent?
The castles around Linz span various historical periods. Linz Castle dates back to 799 AD, with significant rebuilding in the 17th century. Ebelsberg Castle, first mentioned in 1154, showcases Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles and played a role in the Napoleonic Wars. The region's castles offer a journey from medieval origins to later architectural and historical developments.
Can I find hiking or walking routes near the castles?
Yes, many castles are situated in areas with walking and hiking opportunities. For example, the castle park at Ebelsberg Castle is ideal for leisurely walks. The Linz Castle is located on a hill above the Danube, offering scenic strolls around its grounds. For more extensive outdoor activities, you can explore various running trails or mountain hikes in the broader Linz region.
Are there any castle ruins to explore in the Linz area?
Yes, the region features several castle ruins. The Reichenau Castle Ruins, located between Baumgarten and Reichenau, is an old mansion used for cultural events. Another notable ruin is Spilberg Castle Ruins near Langenstein, once an important moated castle, now situated in a floodplain landscape and partially inhabited.
What is the best time of year to visit castles around Linz?
While castles can be visited year-round, spring and autumn offer pleasant weather for exploring the castle grounds and nearby natural areas. Summer is also popular, especially for outdoor events and festivals. Winter visits can be charming, particularly around Ebelsberg Castle, which hosts Christmas markets.
Do any castles offer panoramic views of Linz or the Danube?
Absolutely. Linz Castle, perched on a hill above the Danube, provides breathtaking views of the river and the city from its bastions and the terrace of its south wing. Pöstlingberg, while not a traditional castle, also offers unparalleled panoramic views of Linz and the Danube from its summit.
Are there options for cycling near the castles?
Yes, the area around Linz is well-suited for cycling. The Ebelsberg Castle and Traun Riverside Path is a beautiful bike path. You can also find various gravel biking routes in the wider Linz region that may pass by or near historical sites.
What kind of museums or exhibitions can I find in the castles?
Linz Castle houses the Upper Austrian Provincial Museum, which is Austria's largest universal museum, with permanent exhibitions spanning from the Neolithic Age to the 20th century, plus dynamic special exhibitions. Ebelsberg Castle features a military history exhibition and an interactive "Schloss Experience 1809" escape room.
Are there cafes or restaurants located within or near the castles?
Yes, visitors can find dining options. Linz Castle has a restaurant located in its modern south wing. Traun Castle also offers restaurant facilities. Additionally, the areas surrounding these popular castles often have cafes and restaurants within easy reach.
How long should I plan for a visit to a castle?
The duration of a visit can vary. For a comprehensive experience at Linz Castle and its museum, you might want to allocate 2-3 hours. Exploring Ebelsberg Castle, including its exhibition and escape room, could take 1.5-2 hours. Shorter visits of 1 hour or less are possible for quick explorations or enjoying the views.
Is public transport available to reach the castles?
Linz has a good public transport network. Linz Castle is centrally located and easily accessible. Pöstlingberg is famously reached by the historic Pöstlingbergbahn (mountain tramway), which is an experience in itself. For other castles, local bus services or short taxi rides from Linz's main transport hubs are typically available.
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