Wels

Wels, the second-largest city in Upper Austria with around 70,000 residents, is a compact yet charming destination that blends history, nature, and family-friendly attractions. The old town’s pastel façades, peaceful parks, and cozy cafés create an atmosphere made for relaxed discovery. Unlike nearby Linz, Wels feels calmer and more personal – an ideal stop for families seeking city comfort with countryside tranquility.

How to Get to Wels?

Wels is easy to reach by train or car. From Vienna, trains take about 1.5 hours, sometimes with a short transfer in Linz. Round-trip tickets for two adults cost roughly $200. From Linz, the journey takes only 30 minutes. The main train station is a short walk – or a two-stop bus ride – from the old town.

Driving is just as convenient: it’s about 2.5 hours from Vienna along scenic Upper Austrian routes. The city offers plenty of parking near the center, usually $5-10 per day.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: If you’re planning day trips, renting a car gives you more freedom to explore the nature around Wels, including Kalkalpen National Park.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Wels?

Wels truly shines from spring to early autumn. Between April and October, the town comes alive with flowers, green parks, and outdoor cafés. Summer days are warm but never extreme, perfect for long walks and open-air events.

Autumn brings mild temperatures and fewer visitors – an excellent time for travelers who prefer quiet streets and relaxed sightseeing.

Winter has its charm too. The Advent Market transforms the Stadtplatz into a fairy-tale square with festive lights, mulled wine, and an ice-skating rink for children.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Visit during late spring or early autumn if you prefer a mix of pleasant weather and smaller crowds.

Peaceful morning in Wels — just me, the church, and the sound of the bells.

What to See in Wels?

Stadtplatz (Main Square)

The heart of Wels, Stadtplatz, is among the most beautiful urban squares in Austria. Its Baroque façades from the 17th-18th centuries, colorful buildings, and quiet courtyards create postcard-perfect views. Cafés, shops, and restaurants line the pedestrian zone – ideal for a family stroll or an ice cream break on a summer day.

In December, the square glows with Christmas lights, while summer brings open-air concerts and small festivals.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Stop for dinner outdoors on a summer evening – the view of Ledererturm glowing at sunset is unforgettable.

Ledererturm (Tanners’ Tower)

Standing 37.7 meters high, this medieval tower is the last remaining part of Wels’ 13th-century fortifications. Restored after fire damage, it remains one of the city’s proudest landmarks.

At its base runs a picturesque archway leading directly to Stadtplatz – a favorite photo spot surrounded by small cafés.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Explore both sides of the tower. The northern side offers quiet alleys and boutique shops, while the southern side opens to a livelier street with local eateries.

Stadtpfarrkirche (Parish Church)

At the opposite end of Stadtplatz stands the Stadtpfarrkirche, first mentioned in 888 AD. The Gothic interior, high arches, and ancient frescoes give the church a majestic yet peaceful atmosphere. Beyond its beauty, it reflects Wels’ long history – from Roman roots to the Habsburg era.

Burg Wels (Wels Castle)

Once home to Emperor Maximilian I, Burg Wels now houses the City Museum, featuring engaging exhibitions about local life and history. Families will enjoy the charming courtyard garden, filled with flowers, trees, and benches.

Free open-air concerts are often held here on summer evenings.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Visit just before sunset – the warm evening light over the castle walls is perfect for family photos.

Tiergarten Wels (City Zoo)

Located right in the center, this small but delightful zoo offers close encounters with animals such as lemurs, lynx, deer, and turtles. Children love the playgrounds and the cozy café serving snacks and ice cream. Entrance is free, making it an ideal budget-friendly activity for families.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Bring coins to buy feed for the goats and ducks – it’s a fun experience for small children.

Zoo Schmiding

About 15 minutes by car from the city center, Schmiding Zoo is one of Austria’s largest animal parks. Visitors can see tigers, rhinos, giraffes, gorillas, and hundreds of bird species. The grounds include playgrounds and cafés, making it easy to spend several hours there.

Plan at least 3-4 hours for a visit. Adult tickets cost around $25, and children’s tickets about $15.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Go early in the morning to avoid crowds – parking fills up quickly on weekends.

Welios Science Center

This interactive science museum is one of the top highlights for families. With over 120 hands-on exhibits, children can experiment with energy, water, motion, and even space exploration.

Visitors can generate electricity by cycling, test how tornadoes form, or try walking on Mars. Expect to spend 3-4 hours inside. Admission is about $14 for adults and $9 for children.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Arrive early – parking is limited, especially on weekends. Combine your visit with a walk in the nearby park.

River Traun Promenade

The Traun River flows gently through Wels, offering peaceful routes for walking and cycling. The Traun Cycling Path stretches 32 kilometers, connecting Wels with nearby villages and scenic countryside.

Along the way, you’ll find meadows, cafés, and picnic spots – perfect for an active afternoon.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Rent bicycles in town for a half-day ride. The terrain is flat and suitable even for younger kids.

Coffee first, sightseeing later — that’s the rule in Wels!

What Natural Escapes Can You Visit Near Wels?

Kalkalpen National Park

About 1.5 hours south of Wels by car, Kalkalpen National Park is a breathtaking UNESCO-protected area of forests, mountains, and waterfalls. It is the largest continuous woodland in Central Europe and offers hundreds of hiking and cycling trails.

Families can join guided walks, visit waterfalls like Dr. Vogelgesang-Klamm, or follow panoramic routes such as Hoher Nock. Nature lovers might even spot deer or lynx in the wild. Entrance is free, and guided tours cost around $10-15 per person.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: If you’re traveling with children, choose the trails near Reichraming. They are easier to walk and include tunnels from an old railway line – a feature kids find especially exciting.

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What Can Kids Do in Wels?

Wels is an excellent city for families with children – compact, safe, and full of engaging attractions that combine fun and learning.

• Welios Science Center – educational entertainment with hands-on experiments.
• Tiergarten Wels – a free zoo with playgrounds and a cozy café.
• Schmiding Zoo – one of Austria’s largest zoos, featuring big animals and play areas.
• River Traun – safe cycling paths suitable for all ages.
• Castle Park – a green spot for picnics and play under shady trees.

Tip from the Itinerary Expert: Wels is small and easy to navigate – all major family attractions are within 15 minutes of each other by car or bus.

Every street in Wels looks like a postcard.

A Day Trip Example

Morning: Start your day at Stadtplatz with a cup of coffee and a relaxed stroll through the colorful old town.

Midday: Visit Burg Wels and enjoy lunch in its peaceful garden café surrounded by flowers and historic walls.

Afternoon: Spend a few hours at the Welios Science Center or visit Tiergarten Wels for some outdoor fun with the kids.

Evening: Walk along the Traun River Promenade, then have dinner with a view of the illuminated Ledererturm – a perfect way to end the day.

Traveler Reviews – Real Experiences in Wels

Emily Carter – visited in August 2024
We spent two days in Wels with our kids, and it turned out to be such a lovely surprise. Stadtplatz felt cozy and full of life – colorful houses, nice cafés, and no traffic, which made walking with children easy. The free Tiergarten Wels was perfect for an afternoon visit. The only downside – parking near the center can be tricky on weekends.

Liam Thompson – visited in July 2019
Wels is a calm and friendly city, great for families. Our favorite attraction was the Welios Science Center – we stayed there for almost four hours! So many fun experiments, even for adults. Everything was clean and well-maintained. I’d recommend coming early because parking fills up quickly. Definitely worth a stop if you’re traveling through Upper Austria.

Sophie Müller – visited in September 2023
We came to Wels during our Austrian road trip and stayed overnight. I loved walking along the Traun River – peaceful and beautiful, especially at sunset. We rented bikes and rode a few kilometers along the river path, easy enough for the kids. Restaurant prices were reasonable, and the food was great. A very authentic, non-touristy vibe!

Daniel Evans – visited in May 2018
Our kids (8 and 11) absolutely loved Schmiding Zoo – it’s huge, full of animals, and really well organized. We saw tigers, giraffes, and even gorillas. Plan at least half a day for the visit. The ticket prices are fair, and there are several playgrounds inside. It can get crowded on weekends, so go early if possible.

Hannah Green – visited in October 2021
We visited Wels mainly to see Burg Wels and the old town. The castle garden was in full bloom – a perfect place for family photos. The museum was interesting, but what impressed us most was how calm and clean the whole city felt. We had lunch at a café on the main square, and the view of Ledererturm was stunning.

Mark Wilson – visited in June 2025
We stopped in Wels for one day on our way to Salzburg. It’s not a big city, but it has everything – nature, good food, and charm. The free zoo, historic center, and science museum made it a perfect stop for the kids. If you’re driving, it’s super convenient – everything is close, and the roads are great. A small gem in the heart of Upper Austria.

If only this hotel came with a time machine to the 19th century!

Tips from the Itinerary Expert

1. Arrive early at Welios Science Center.
   It often fills up quickly after 11 a.m., especially when school trips are scheduled. Arriving at opening time means quieter exhibits and available parking right across the street.
2. Bring picnic snacks to Tiergarten Wels.
   The zoo is lovely, but its small cafés may not serve full meals. I usually pack fruit and sandwiches so the kids can eat under the trees near the playground.
3. Rent bikes for the Traun River path.
   The 32-km cycling route is mostly flat and lined with great picnic spots. Even young children can ride a few easy kilometers before turning back toward the city.
4. Combine Burg Wels and Stadtplatz in one morning.
   The castle opens around 10 a.m., and afterward, you can walk straight to the main square for lunch with a view of Ledererturm – no car needed, everything is nearby.
5. Visit Schmiding Zoo on weekdays.
   Weekends can be crowded, and parking is limited. On a Tuesday afternoon, I had clear views of the animals and no waiting lines at all.
6. Plan a half-day trip to Kalkalpen National Park.
   It’s about 1.5 hours by car; the easy trails near Reichraming are ideal for families. Don’t forget water, insect repellent, and a light jacket – mountain weather changes quickly.

I promised myself “no shopping today.” Ten minutes later… bags everywhere.

Insights from the Itinerary Expert

I visited Wels in June 2023 during a summer research trip through Upper Austria, and honestly, this city exceeded my expectations. It’s compact yet full of personality – easy to explore on foot, clean, and very family-oriented.

The Stadtplatz (Main Square) quickly became my favorite spot: colorful façades, open-air cafés, and that relaxed Austrian rhythm that makes you slow down and enjoy the moment.

For families, Wels strikes a perfect balance between education and fun. The Welios Science Center kept my kids engaged for hours with hands-on experiments, while the Tiergarten Wels offered a peaceful green escape – small, free, and ideal for younger children. A short drive away, Schmiding Zoo and the Traun River cycling path added a refreshing outdoor touch.

If there’s one minor challenge, it’s parking near the center – expect a short walk. Still, the city feels safe, tidy, and welcoming, even for first-time visitors.

In my view, Wels is one of those underrated Austrian towns that combine charm, history, and family comfort. It’s a wonderful destination to include in your personal itinerary – and I’ll be happy to help you design a custom route through Wels and the beautiful landscapes of Austria.

Even the bus stops in Wels look like modern art.

Price Table: Wels

Frequently Asked Questions about Wels

What is the best time of year to visit Wels?

Spring to early autumn (April-October) is ideal. Parks and the Traun River area are green and lively, and attractions like the Welios Science Center and Tiergarten Wels operate at full capacity.

How can I get to Wels from Vienna?

Direct trains take around 1.5 hours, and tickets for two adults cost about $200 round trip. By car, it’s a 2.5-hour drive – having your own vehicle makes it easier to visit nearby natural sites.

Is Wels suitable for families with children?

Absolutely. The city is compact, safe, and filled with family-friendly attractions such as Welios, Schmiding Zoo, and the free Tiergarten Wels. Most restaurants also offer children’s menus and outdoor seating.

How long should we plan to stay in Wels?

From personal experience, two days are perfect – one for exploring the old town and local attractions, and another for a short trip to Kalkalpen National Park or a relaxed cycling ride along the Traun River.

Are there any age limits at the attractions?

Most family attractions have no age restrictions. Children under six enter Schmiding Zoo for free, and the Welios Science Center includes exhibits for both younger kids and teens.

Is parking easy near the city center?

Not always. It’s best to park a few streets away from Stadtplatz and enjoy the short walk through the old town – it’s quieter, cleaner, and often less crowded than the main square area.

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