Whether you’re looking to unwind in nature, explore local culture, or simply enjoy some leisure time after a productive day, Villach and its surroundings offer a wide variety of activities. From thermal spas and scenic hikes to lakeside relaxation and cultural highlights – there’s something here for everyone.

Relax & Recharge

Thermal spas, saunas, and wellness options to help you unwind.

Kärnten Therme Warmbad-Villach
A modern spa complex offering thermal pools, sauna areas, massages, and fitness.
👉 www.kaerntentherme.com
👉 Google Maps – Kärnten Therme

Nature & Outdoor Experiences

Hiking, biking, swimming, or simply enjoying the beautiful Carinthian landscape.

• Dobratsch Hike (from Rosstratte) – approx. 1.5 to 2 hours one way.
  👉 https://www.visitvillach.at/en/naturpark-dobratsch.html
  👉 Google Maps – Hiking Start Point Rosstratte

• Gerlitzen Alpe Cable Car & Hike – panoramic trails at the top.
  👉 https://www.gerlitzen.com/en/
  👉 Google Maps – Valley Station Car Park

• Lago di Fusine (Italy) – easy lakeside walk with alpine views.
  👉 https://www.alltrails.com/parks/italy/friuli-venezia-giulia/parco-naturale-dei-laghi-di-fusine
  👉 Google Maps – Parking Laghi di Fusine

Lakes & Leisure

Public beach areas and scenic lakes for swimming and relaxation.

• Strandbad Drobollach (Faaker See)
  👉 Google Maps

• Strandbad Egg (Faaker See) – free
  👉 Google Maps

• Strandbad Bodensdorf (Ossiacher See) 
  👉 Google Maps

• Strandbad Ossiach (Ossiacher See) 
  👉 Google Maps

• Strandbad Christa (Ossiacher See) 
  👉 Google Maps

Culture & Local Life

Museums, galleries, historical sites, and regional traditions to explore.

• Villach City Museum
  👉 https://www.visitvillach.at/en/the-museum-of-the-city-of-villach-1.html
  👉 Google Maps

• Landskron Castle & Eagle Arena
  👉 www.adlerarena.com
  👉 Google Maps

• Local Traditions & Markets (e.g. Villach Hauptplatz)

  👉Organic Market
  The Villach Organic Farmers’ Market (Biobauernmarkt Villach) is a vibrant weekly market held every Friday (except public holidays) from 8:00 AM to approximately 2:30 PM at Hans-Gasser-Platz. Around 20 organic farmers from the Alpe-Adria region come together to offer a diverse selection of handcrafted, certified organic products.
  
  👉Villach Farmers’ Market is a traditional, year-round market held every Wednesday and Saturday from 7:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The market takes place at Burgplatz and along the Drau riverside promenade, offering a vibrant and authentic shopping experience.

  Around 20 local vendors sell a wide variety of fresh, regional products including seasonal fruits and vegetables, meat and sausages, cheeses, dairy products, honey, bread and pastries, herbs, flowers, plants, handmade crafts, natural cosmetics, and household items.

  👉 Villacher Kirchtag is Austria’s largest traditional folk festival, held annually. Established in 1936, this week-long celebration typically occurs around the first Saturday of August, transforming the city’s old town into a vibrant hub of cultural festivities.

  The festival features over 130 events, including live music performances, traditional dances, and culinary delights. A highlight is the traditional costume parade on Saturday, showcasing more than 3,000 participants in traditional attire from the Alps-Adriatic region and beyond.

Shopping & Strolling

Charming boutiques, regional products, and Villach’s pedestrian-friendly old town.

• ATRIO Shopping Center
  👉 www.atrio.at
  👉 Google Maps

• Villach Old Town
  👉 Google Maps

Day Trips & Scenic Drives

Explore beyond Villach – Italy and Slovenia are just around the corner.

• Venice, Italy – approx. 2.5 hours

  Parking

  1. Piazzale Roma – Closest to the City Center

  Piazzale Roma is the last point accessible by car before entering Venice’s pedestrian zone. It’s ideal for those seeking maximum convenience. However, parking here is among the most expensive options. Rates typically range from €30 to €45 per day, and spaces can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. It’s highly recommended to reserve a spot in advance.

  2. Tronchetto Island – Slightly Cheaper Alternative

  Located just before Piazzale Roma, Tronchetto Island offers a large parking facility that’s slightly more affordable, with rates around €27 for 24 hours. From here, you can reach the city center via the People Mover (an automated shuttle train) or by taking Vaporetto Line 2, which provides direct access to major attractions like the Rialto Bridge and St. Mark’s Square.

  3. Mestre – Budget-Friendly Option on the Mainland

  For a more economical choice, consider parking in Mestre, the mainland part of Venice. Parking rates here are significantly lower, ranging from €5 to €15 per day. From Mestre, you can easily reach Venice’s city center by train, bus, or tram within 10–15 minutes. This option is particularly suitable for travelers looking to save on parking costs.

• Udine, Italy – charming old town, 1.5 hours
  👉 Google Maps

• Lake Bled, Slovenia – iconic alpine lake, just over 1 hour
  👉 Google Maps