
Wörthersee
A stunning Austrian lake renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by picturesque mountains and charming lakeside towns.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Wörthersee
Best Time
Calm waters, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning Austrian lake renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters, surrounded by picturesque mountains and charming lakeside towns.
"Amazing place for relaxation and nature lovers! The water is crystal clear with beautiful turquoise tones."

🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tough in peak season. Arrive early or consider public transport/ferries.
🚴 Bike the Lake
Rent a bike to explore the scenic Wörthersee Rundwanderweg. Great for all fitness levels!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Crystal Clear Turquoise Waters
Various swimming spots around the lake
Dive into the famously blue-green, clean waters for a refreshing swim or simply relax by the shore.

Pyramidenkogel Observation Tower
Near Reifnitz
Ascend this iconic wooden tower for breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the lake and surrounding Alps.

Charming Lakeside Towns
Velden, Pörtschach, Maria Wörth
Explore picturesque villages with beautiful promenades, cafes, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Wörthersee Rundwanderweg
Circumnavigating the lake
Hike or bike this scenic 55km trail offering diverse landscapes and stunning lake vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Getting Around Wörthersee
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tough in peak season. Arrive early or consider public transport/ferries.
🚴 Bike the Lake
Rent a bike to explore the scenic Wörthersee Rundwanderweg. Great for all fitness levels!
☀️ Find Your Quiet Spot
Beyond the main towns, discover peaceful coves for relaxation and swimming.
☕ Enjoy Lakeside Cafes
Savor local treats and drinks with stunning views. Velden has great evening options.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Tips
Parking can be tough in peak season. Arrive early or consider public transport/ferries.
🚴 Bike the Lake
Rent a bike to explore the scenic Wörthersee Rundwanderweg. Great for all fitness levels!
☀️ Find Your Quiet Spot
Beyond the main towns, discover peaceful coves for relaxation and swimming.
☕ Enjoy Lakeside Cafes
Savor local treats and drinks with stunning views. Velden has great evening options.
🥾 Hike for Views
The Pyramidenkogel Trail offers rewarding panoramic vistas.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Wörthersee is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning turquoise waters, serene natural beauty, and relaxing atmosphere, making it ideal for unwinding. Visitors love the charming lakeside towns and the diverse outdoor activities available, from swimming to hiking. Some note that parking and crowds can be challenging during peak season, and certain areas might be more commercialized than others.
"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing place for relaxation and nature lovers!
We spent a few peaceful days at Wörthersee and absolutely loved it. The water is crystal clear with beautiful turquoise tones, and the surroundings are breathtaking – calm, clean, and surrounded by mountains.
There are plenty of quiet spots to relax, swim, or take a walk along the shore. Perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to unwind in nature.
Highly recommended – we would love to come back again!"
Magdalena Novotná
"A hidden gem 💎 yet to have international tourists invasion .. the west side of the lake is nicer with a lot to restaurants and options"
Sam Darra
"I love this lake. We go here every other summer, and I can’t be more happy here. I would definitely recommend a stay in Klagenfurt, but also in Velden!"
Turtle Timmie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wörthersee is easily accessible by car via the A2 motorway. The nearest major airport is Klagenfurt (KLU), about a 20-minute drive away. Trains also connect to towns like Velden and Pörtschach.
Getting around Wörthersee can be done by car, but parking is limited. Consider using the local bus services, ferries that connect various towns, or renting a bicycle for a more scenic experience.
Ferries are a popular and scenic way to travel between towns like Velden, Pörtschach, and Maria Wörth. Buses are also efficient, and cycling is ideal for shorter distances.
Yes, Wörthersee is well-connected by public transport. Trains stop at key locations like Velden am Wörthersee and Pörtschach am Wörthersee, and a comprehensive bus network serves the surrounding areas.
Absolutely! Wörthersee is a popular day-trip destination, especially from cities like Klagenfurt or even Vienna if you're up for a longer journey. Plan your transport in advance to maximize your time.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Wörthersee itself is a public lake, so there are no general admission tickets. However, specific attractions like the Pyramidenkogel Tower or certain lidos may have entrance fees.
The lake is accessible at all times. However, cafes, restaurants, and attractions around the lake have their own operating hours, which vary seasonally. It's best to check individual venues.
Many public access points are free for swimming. Some designated lidos or beach clubs might charge a small fee for facilities like changing rooms and loungers.
No general booking is required for Wörthersee itself. However, if you plan to stay in popular hotels or Airbnbs, especially during peak season, booking accommodation in advance is highly recommended.
For accommodation near Wörthersee, consider booking hotels or Airbnbs in towns like Velden, Pörtschach, or Maria Wörth. Booking platforms or direct hotel websites are good options, especially for 'ferienhotel worthersee' searches.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Wörthersee offers swimming, boating, paddleboarding, hiking the Wörthersee Rundwanderweg, cycling, and visiting attractions like the Pyramidenkogel Tower. The towns also offer charming promenades and cafes.
You can swim at numerous public access points around the lake. Popular spots include beaches in Velden, Pörtschach, and the area around Maria Wörth. The water is known for its clarity and pleasant temperature in summer.
Yes, the Wörthersee Rundwanderweg is a famous 55km trail circling the lake, perfect for multi-day hikes or sections. The Pyramidenkogel Trail leads to the observation tower with stunning views.
Velden is known for its more lively, upscale atmosphere with casinos and a vibrant promenade. Pörtschach offers a more relaxed, chill vibe with a beautiful lakeside promenade and good dining options.
Wörthersee is excellent for families, with safe swimming areas, boat rentals, and family-friendly activities. Many lakeside resorts cater specifically to families.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Expect a mix of Austrian cuisine, fresh fish from the lake, and international options. Lakeside cafes and restaurants offer everything from casual snacks to fine dining.
Velden has a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes along the promenade to more upscale restaurants. Werzer's Badehaus is often recommended for its dining experience.
While traditional Austrian cuisine can be meat-heavy, many restaurants are increasingly offering vegetarian and vegan dishes. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff.
Try local fish dishes, Austrian pastries like Apfelstrudel, and enjoy the regional wines. During winter, warm drinks like Glühwein (mulled wine) are popular.
Prices can vary. Lakeside restaurants in popular towns like Velden might be pricier, while options slightly off the main drag or in smaller villages can be more budget-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the turquoise waters from various viewpoints, the Pyramidenkogel Tower for panoramic shots, and the charming promenades of Velden and Pörtschach. Sunsets over the lake are magical.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hues. Midday can be harsh, but the vibrant water color is still striking.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check local rules and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone, especially near populated areas or nature reserves.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing landscapes and the expansive lake. A telephoto lens can be useful for distant mountain views or details. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing water colors.
The Pyramidenkogel Tower provides an unparalleled aerial perspective. For ground-level shots, the promenades in Velden and Pörtschach, and the island of Maria Wörth offer classic Wörthersee scenery.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider staying in areas with easy access to beaches and activities. Renting a paddleboat or taking a short boat trip can be a highlight for kids. The Pyramidenkogel Tower, while a climb, also has an elevator, making it accessible for families with younger children, and the views are captivating for all ages.
💑 Couples & Relaxation Seekers
Discover quiet coves for intimate moments or enjoy a sunset cruise on the lake. The Wörthersee Rundwanderweg offers opportunities for peaceful hikes amidst nature. Many hotels offer spa facilities, perfect for unwinding together.
🚴 Active Travelers & Cyclists
Beyond the main trail, numerous smaller cycling routes and mountain bike trails crisscross the surrounding hills, providing ample opportunities for exploration. Bike rentals are widely available in most towns. Remember to pack appropriate gear and plan your routes to take advantage of the stunning vistas.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wörthersee Rundwanderweg
Travelers often split the trail over multiple days, allowing ample time to soak in the views and explore charming villages like Velden, Pörtschach, and Maria Wörth along the way. The trail provides breathtaking views of the lake from numerous vantage points, showcasing its iconic turquoise hue.
For those seeking a less strenuous experience, sections of the trail can be enjoyed as shorter day hikes or bike rides. The Wörthersee Rundwanderweg is a fantastic way to connect with nature and discover the hidden gems of the region away from the more crowded tourist spots.
The Charm of Velden and Pörtschach
In contrast, Pörtschach am Wörthersee provides a more relaxed and chill vibe. Its beautiful lakeside promenade is perfect for leisurely walks, and it's a great spot for enjoying good food with a view. Many travelers find Pörtschach to be an ideal base for a peaceful retreat, offering a good mix of relaxation and access to amenities.
Both towns offer unique experiences, and choosing between them often depends on whether you prefer a more energetic or a tranquil setting. Many visitors recommend experiencing both to get a full appreciation of the Wörthersee experience.
Activities on and around the Water
Boating enthusiasts will find plenty of options, and many visitors enjoy leisurely cruises across the lake, taking in the scenic surroundings. The water's clarity and pleasant temperature make it an inviting playground for all ages.
For those who prefer to stay dry but still enjoy the water's presence, consider a ferry ride between the lakeside towns. This offers a different perspective of the landscape and is a relaxing way to travel and sightsee.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit