Leoben Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, and food and drink scene in Leoben, Austria. Learn about the local culture and customs, get safety and health tips, and know how to get to and around Leoben.


Introduction to Leoben

Leoben is a charming city in Styria, Austria, located in the heart of Europe. It is the second-largest city in the region and is blessed with a rich history, cultural diversity, picturesque scenery, and a vibrant food and drink scene. Leoben is a must-visit destination for those seeking a mix of history, nature, and adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Leoben

There are countless places to visit in Leoben, each offering a unique experience to visitors. Here are some of the most popular ones worth adding to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mining Museum – This museum takes you through the history of mining in Styria, from the earliest days to the modern era. The exhibition features various minerals, equipment, and tools that were used in the mines’ operation, along with a virtual mine tour and a model of a mining town.

  • St. Francis Church – An ancient church dating back to the 13th century, St. Francis Church is known for its remarkable architecture, frescoes, and its bell tower, which offers panoramic views of Leoben.

  • Gothic Parish Church – The Gothic Parish Church is another must-visit attraction in Leoben. It features stunning architecture, murals, and carvings that reflect the rich history and culture of the city and Austria.

Natural Attractions of Leoben: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Erzberg Mountain – Erzberg Mountain is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering an array of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing. The mountain is also known for its rich iron ore deposits, and visitors can take a guided tour of the mine.

  • Leopoldsteinersee Lake – Located amidst the mountains, Leopoldsteinersee Lake is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The scenic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains make it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

  • Gösser Brewery – Founded in 1860, Gösser Brewery is one of the oldest breweries in Austria that continues to produce high-quality beer. Visitors can take a tour of the facility, learn about the brewing process, and taste different types of beer.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Leoben

Leoben is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with numerous scenic trails that offer breathtaking views of the city’s landscape. Here are some of the best hiking/biking routes in Leoben:

  • Mur Cycling Trail – This 365 km-long trail passes through Leoben and is ideal for bikers of all levels. The trail is well-maintained and offers beautiful views of the Mur river and the surrounding mountains.

  • Erzberg Mountain Trail – This trail takes you through the scenic landscape of Erzberg Mountain and offers an opportunity to explore the rich history and culture of the region. The trail ranges from easy to challenging, making it ideal for hikers of all levels.

Best Things to Do in Leoben: Activities and Tours

Leoben offers numerous activities and tours that cater to every taste and preference. Here are some of the top things to do in Leoben:

  • Explore the Old Town – Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow streets of the old town and discover the beautiful architecture, historic buildings, and charming cafes and shops.

  • Attend a Cultural Event – Leoben hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, including music concerts, festivals, and exhibitions. Check the local event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

  • Visit a Wine Cellar – Styria is known for its high-quality wines, and Leoben has several wine cellars that offer tours and tastings of the local wines.

Week-Long Itinerary for Leoben

If you have a week to explore Leoben, here’s a suggested itinerary that covers the top attractions and activities in the city:

Day Itinerary
1 Explore the Old Town, St. Francis Church, and the Gothic Parish Church
2 Visit the Mining Museum and take a virtual tour of the mine
3 Go hiking or biking on the Erzberg Mountain Trail
4 Enjoy a day at the Leopoldsteinersee Lake, swimming, boating, and fishing
5 Take a tour of the Gösser Brewery and taste different types of beer
6 Attend a cultural event or visit a wine cellar
7 Relax and explore the city at your leisure

Food and Drink Scene of Leoben

Leoben has a vibrant food and drink scene that reflects the region’s rich culinary traditions. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Käsespätzle – A delicious local version of macaroni and cheese, made with a combination of homemade noodles, cheese, onions, and roasted pork.

  • Steirisches Wurzelfleisch – A traditional Styrian dish made with boiled beef, potatoes, carrots, celery root, and horseradish cream.

  • Bauerngröstl – A hearty dish made with potatoes, onions, bacon, and beef, seasoned with paprika.

Local Beverages

  • Pumpkin Seed Oil – A specialty of Styria, pumpkin seed oil is a healthy and flavorful oil that is widely used in salads, soups, and other dishes.

  • Styrian Wine – Known for their crisp, fruity taste, the white wines of Styria are a must-try for wine lovers.

  • Gösser Beer – The pride of Leoben, Gösser beer is a refreshing and high-quality beer that is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Where to Stay in Leoben: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Leoben has a variety of accommodation options to cater to every budget and preference. Here are some of the top hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Leoben:

  • Falkensteiner Hotel & Asia Spa Leoben – A luxurious hotel with an in-house spa and wellness center, located in the heart of the city.

  • JUFA Hotel Leoben – A family-friendly hotel with comfortable rooms and a wide range of amenities, including a sauna and an indoor pool.

  • Landgasthof Gietl – A charming guesthouse with cozy rooms and a traditional restaurant that serves freshly prepared local dishes.

What to Buy in Leoben: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Leoben offers several souvenirs and local products that are perfect for taking home as a memento of your visit. Here are some of the top items to buy in Leoben:

  • Pumpkin Seed Oil – A healthy and flavorful oil that is ideal for cooking and dressing salads.

  • Zirbenkissen – Pine pillows made with pinewood shavings that are believed to promote relaxation and better sleep.

  • Handcrafted Pottery – Leoben is home to several ceramic artists who create stunning handcrafted pottery that reflects the region’s culture and traditions.

Local Culture and Customs of Leoben

The people of Leoben are warm and friendly and take pride in their cultural heritage and traditions. Here are some of the local customs and cultural practices that you should be aware of:

  • Greetings – When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to shake hands and greet them with a smile.

  • Dress Code – Dress modestly when visiting churches or other places of worship. However, there is no specific dress code for casual dress.

  • Respect for Elders – In Austria, there is a deep respect for elders, and it is customary to address them with honorifics such as “Herr” or “Frau.”

Best Time to Visit Leoben

The best time to visit Leoben is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is mild, and the outdoor activities and events are in full swing. However, Leoben is a year-round destination, and the city has something to offer in every season.

Do’s and Don’ts of Leoben

Here are some of the do’s and don’ts of Leoben that you should keep in mind during your visit:

Do:

  • Bring cash – While credit cards are widely accepted in Leoben, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases.

  • Carry an umbrella – The weather in Styria can be unpredictable, and it’s always a good idea to carry an umbrella or raincoat.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in public – Smoking is prohibited in public places in Austria, including restaurants and bars.

  • Skip the tip – It’s customary to leave a tip of 5-10% of the total bill in restaurants and cafés in Austria.

Safety and Health

Leoben is a safe and healthy destination, and visitors are unlikely to face any major health or safety issues. However, it’s always better to take precautions and be prepared before your visit:

Safety in Leoben

  • Avoid pickpockets – While Leoben is a safe city, be aware of your surroundings and avoid carrying valuable belongings in crowded areas.

  • Know emergency numbers – Keep the emergency numbers of the local police, ambulance, and fire department handy.

Health in Leoben

  • Stay hydrated – Carry a bottle of water, especially during the summer months, to stay hydrated.

  • Carry necessary medications – If you have a pre-existing medical condition, carry your medications with you and keep a copy of your prescription handy.

Getting to Leoben: Transportation Options and Logistics

Leoben is well-connected with the rest of Austria and Europe and has several transportation options to reach the city. Here are some of the most popular ways to get to Leoben:

Airports Near Leoben

  • Graz Airport – Graz Airport is the nearest international airport to Leoben, located about 50 km away. Several airlines operate daily flights to Graz from major European cities.

Bus Stations Near Leoben

  • Leoben Main Bus Station – Leoben has a main bus station that connects the city with other parts of Austria and Europe. Several bus companies operate daily services to and from Leoben.

Other Options

  • Car Rental – If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car from Graz Airport or any other major city in Austria.

  • Train – Austria has a well-connected railway network, and Leoben has a train station that connects the city with other parts of Styria and Austria.

How to Get Around in Leoben

Leoben is a compact city, and most of the attractions and activities are within walking distance of each other. However, if you prefer public transport, Leoben has several options:

  • Bus – Leoben has a well-connected bus network that operates throughout the city and its surrounding areas.

  • Bike Rental – Bike rental shops are available throughout the city, and cycling is a popular way to get around and explore the scenic landscape of Leoben.

Where to Go Next from Leoben: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Leoben is surrounded by several other charming cities and towns, each offering a unique experience to visitors. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions that you can explore:

  • Graz – The capital of Styria, Graz, is a cultural and historical hub, known for its stunning architecture, museums, and galleries.

  • Semmering Railway – A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Semmering Railway is a historic railway line that connects Semmering Pass to Gloggnitz. It offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and landscape.

  • Admont Abbey & Library – Admont Abbey & Library is the largest monastery library in the world, known for its stunning architecture, artwork, and ancient manuscripts.

Conclusion

Leoben is a beautiful and charming city that offers a mix of history, culture, nature, and adventure. It is a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the best of Austria and Central Europe. With its friendly people, vibrant food and drink scene, and endless activities and attractions, Leoben promises to be an unforgettable vacation destination.