The 20 Best Lakes in Austria to Cool off in this Summer

Jul 7, 2025 | Summer in Austria, Travel Tips

Austria isn’t just about grand mountains and charming cities — it’s also home to some of Europe’s most stunning lakes.
With their crystal-clear waters, alpine backdrops, and peaceful shores, the lakes in Austria are perfect for summer getaways, whether you’re craving a refreshing swim, a scenic hike, or a lazy afternoon by the water.
From famous spots like Hallstätter See to hidden gems tucked deep in the Alps, this guide shares 12 of the best Austrian lakes to cool off in this summer — along with tips on where to swim, stay, eat, and soak up the incredible views.

Hi, I’m Tammy — founder of Wanderlustria, the trusted travel planning hub for exploring Austria at its best. Based in the heart of the Austrian Alps, I spend my days uncovering the most scenic spots, hidden gems, and local favourites that make this country so unforgettable. Through years of hands-on experience, in-depth research, and a passion for slow, meaningful travel, I’ve helped thousands plan their perfect Austrian escape—whether through Wanderlustria or the Austria Travel Planning Facebook community.

If you’re dreaming of alpine lakes, mountain breezes, and crystal-clear swims, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive into 20 of the most breathtaking lakes in Austria to cool off, unwind, and soak up the views this summer

Discover these 20 Austrian Lakes: Where to swim, relax, and stay.

Salzkammergut Region
The lakes in Salzkammergut region are close to Salzburg

1. Lake Wolfgangsee – Classic Alpine Charm with Paddle Steamers and Panoramas
2. Hallstättersee – Iconic Views, History, and UNESCO Charm
3. Traunsee – Austria’s Deepest Lake with History and Drama
4. Mondsee – Relaxed Lakeside Life with a Sound of Music Twist
5. Fuschlsee – Turquoise Calm Near Salzburg
6. Attersee – Sail, Swim, and Paddle in Austria’s Clearest Lake
7. Altausseer See – The Quiet Gem of the Styrian Alps
8. Grundlsee – The “Styrian Sea”

Salzburgerland- close to Salzburg

9. Lake Zell (Zeller See) – Alpine Waters in the Heart of SalzburgerLand
10. Mattsee – Warm Waters in Salzburg’s Quiet North

Carinthia- close to Graz

11. Wörthersee – Austria’s Glitzy Riviera
12. Millstätter See – A Blend of Nature and Culture
13. Weissensee – Austria’s Cleanest Lake

Tyrol- close to Innsbruck

14. Achensee – Tyrol’s Turquoise Treasure
15. Plansee – Crystal Waters & Forest Silence
16. Walchsee – Family-Friendly and Full of Sunshine
17. Piburger See – Hidden Forest Lake near Ötztal

Vorarlberg- close to Bregenz

18. Lake Constance (Bodensee) – Three Countries, One Lake

Lower Austria- Vienna is nearby

19. Lunzer See – Lower Austria’s Woodland Hideaway

Burgenland- close to Vienna

20. Lake Neusiedl (Neusiedler See) – Eastern Austria’s Wild West Coast

Salzkammergut Sparkle – Where to Find Some of the Most Iconic Lakes in Austria

No list of the best lakes in Austria is complete without the Salzkammergut. This storybook region stretches across Upper Austria, Salzburg, and parts of Styria, and it’s home to 76 lakes – from famous postcard favourites to peaceful, lesser-known spots. Think glassy alpine water, wildflower meadows, and cosy lakeside villages with mountain views. Whether you’re keen to swim, sail, hike, or unwind with a lakeside drink, these Austrian lakes promise everything you could want from a summer escape.

Lake Wolfgangsee – Classic Alpine Charm with Paddle Steamers and Panoramas

Wolfgangsee ticks every box for an idyllic Austrian summer.
Surrounded by mountains and dotted with postcard-perfect villages, Lake Wolfgangsee offers a blend of outdoor adventure, heritage charm, and lakefront relaxation.
It’s one of the most popular lakes in Austria for good reason.

Why Visit: Elegant lakeside villages, iconic paddle steamers, and jaw-dropping alpine views

Who Should Visit: Couples, families, and anyone who wants classic Alpine charm with lots to do

Closest City/Airport: Salzburg

Distance: Approximately 40 minutes from Salzburg, with easy public transport options.

Public Transport: Regional bus 150 from Salzburg travels directly to St Gilgen and Strobl.

Highlights:

Ride the historic paddle steamer between St. Gilgen, St. Wolfgang & Strobl
Take the Schafberg cog railway for panoramic views
Swim from Strobl’s beach or rent kayaks and pedal boats in St. Wolfgang
Hike or cycle the lakeshore paths
Enjoy fresh lake fish at traditional lakeside restaurants

Where to Stay

St. Gilgen: Chic, charming, and surrounded by peaks. Ride the Zwölferhorn cable car or explore Mozart connections.

Luxury: Seehotel Billroth– Lakeside hotel with private beach and restaurant
Mid-range: Hotel & Gasthof Fürberg– lakeside Inn
Aparthotel: Anna Pertl-lieblingsquartier– Apartments with kitchenette and hotel with pool
Budget: Jugendgästehaus St. Gilgen – Friendly youth hostel

St. Wolfgang: Cobbled streets, blooming window boxes.

Luxury: Romatikhotel Im Weißen Rössl– Traditional 4-star hotel
Mid-range: Hotel Zimmerbräu – Historic traditional hotel in 14th-century building

Strobl: Peaceful and less crowded. Great for swimmers and walkers seeking quiet lake access.

Luxury: Kirchenwirt– family-fun hotel in the town centre. Lake views
Mid-range: Seehotel Braundauer’s Villen-Classic hotel with private beach

Discover great places to stay in the Salzkammergut

Hallstättersee – Iconic Views, History, and UNESCO Charm

Surrounded by sheer cliffs and alpine forest, Hallstättersee (Lake Hallstatt) is one of the most photographed lakes of Austria. The village of Hallstatt, perched on its shores, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historic charm and surreal scenery.

Why Visit: Postcard beauty, rich history, and alpine adventure

Who Should Visit: First-time visitors, photographers, and culture lovers

Best time to visit: early morning or shoulder season to avoid crowds

Distance: ~1 hr 15 min from Salzburg, ~3 hrs from Vienna
Read our Guide: How to Get to Hallstatt

Highlights:

Explore Hallstatt’s UNESCO-listed old town and its historic market square
Swim or picnic in Obertraun’s lakefront areas
Take a boat ride across the mirror-like lake for panoramic vantage points
Rowboat hire with epic mountain views
Discover the Hallstatt Salt Mine and ride the funicular up to the Skywalk platform.
Visit the Dachstein-Krippenstein Mountain, the Giant Ice Caves, and the 5-Finger Lookout.
Find out more in our Guide Visiting the Giant Ice Caves
Hike the scenic Echerntal Valley
Enjoy lakeside dining options

Find out more information to plan your trip in our Hallstatt Guides

Where to Stay

Hallstatt: Walkable and full of charm, but best for short stays

Luxury: Heritage Hotel Hallstatt – Historic style with direct lake access
Mid-range: Seehotel Grüner Baum – Elegant stay by the water
Budget: Gasthof Simony – historic 15th-century building in the centre of Hallstatt.

Obertraun: Quieter and better value, with access to nature

Luxury: Dormio Resort Obertraun – Alpine chalets with spa
Mid-range: Seehotel am Hallstättersee – Peaceful lakeside views
Budget: Jutel Obertraun – Simple, friendly hostel, and well-located

Where to Stay in Hallstatt has more ideas of where to stay in Hallstatt and the neighbouring villages,

Traunsee – Austria’s Deepest Lake with History and Drama

Lake Traunsee offers elegant towns, dramatic cliffs, and cool alpine water. Its mix of natural drama and cultural depth makes it one of the most fascinating Austrian lakes.

Why Visit: Castles, deep blue water, and Traunstein towering above

Who Should Visit: Couples, hikers, and culture lovers

Distance: 1 hr from Linz, 1 hr from Salzburg, 2 hrs 15 min from Vienna.
Public Transport: Gmunden Hbf (train Station) has trains direct from Salzburg, Linz or Vienna.

Highlights:

Explore Gmunden and its historic ceramic workshops
Visit the fairytale Ort Castle on the lake
Rent a boat or sail across Austria’s deepest lake
Swim at Solarbad or Seebahnhof beach
Hike up Traunstein for incredible views
Take a scenic lake cruise past forested cliffs

Where to Stay

Gmunden-Elegant and lively, with a lovely promenade, the whimsical Ort Castle on the lake, and coffee culture that rivals Vienna’s.

Luxury: Seehotel Schwan – historic hotel with panoramic lake and mountain views
Mid-Range: Boutiquehotel Zum Goldenen Hirschen– Lakeside family-friendly hotel with restaurant

Mondsee – Relaxed Lakeside Life with a Sound of Music Twist

Warm and welcoming, Lake Mondsee is one of the most accessible lakes in Austria from Salzburg. Known for its famous basilica from The Sound of Music, it offers a family-friendly vibe with calm waters and a lively promenade.

Why Visit: Easy-going charm, warm water, and cinematic history and beautiful churches

Who should visit: Families and relaxed holidaymakers

Distance: 30–40 min from Salzburg, easy public transport options

Public Transport: Regional bus 140 direct from the centre of Salzburg to Mondsee in approximately 45 minutes.

Highlights:

Highlights

Swim in clear water at Fuschlseebad
Walk or cycle the 12km lake trail
Rent electric or rowboats for a peaceful paddle
Visit Schloss Fuschl, now a luxury hotel
Home to Red Bull HQ – you’ll see a few fancy cars

Where to Stay

Mondsee- Sunny, easy-going, and perfect for slow summer days

Luxury: Hotel Krone– Central location, with on-site restaurant and spa/wellness centre
Mid-Range: Seepension Hemetsberger– lakeside family-friendly with beachfront access
Budget: Iris Porsche Hotel Boutique and stylish

Fuschlsee – Turquoise Calm Near Salzburg

Just a short drive from Salzburg, Fuschlsee is one of the most enchanting lakes of Austria. Its calm, turquoise waters and forested trails feel like stepping into a postcard. The fairytale-style Schloss Fuschl overlooks the lake, adding even more charm.

Why Visit: It’s peaceful, car-free in parts, and perfect for swimming or long walks along the scenic 12km trail around the lake.

Who Should Visit: Couples, wellness seekers, and nature lovers looking for an easy day trip from Salzburg

Distance: 30 minutes’ drive from Salzburg

Public Transport: Regional Bus 150 direct from the centre of Salzburg to Fuschl am See in 30 minutes.

Highlights:

Explore Gmunden and its historic ceramic workshops
Visit the fairytale Ort Castle on the lake
Rent a boat or sail across Austria’s deepest lake
Swim at Solarbad or Seebahnhof beach
Hike up Traunstein for incredible views
Take a scenic lake cruise past forested cliffs

Where to Stay

Fuschl am See A quiet base that’s great for outdoor activities and relaxing days on the water.

Luxury: Hotel Seerose – family-run lakeside Hotel
Mid-range: Hotel Seewinkel – modern rooms and private lake beach
Budget: Brunnwirt – Beachfront 1- and 2-bedroom apartments with fully equipped kitchens

Splurge: On the western edge of Fuschlsee, stay in your own castle.
Rosewood Schloss Fuschl – World-class 5-star lakeside hotel

Attersee – Sail, Swim, and Paddle in Austria’s Clearest Lake

Lake Attersee is Austria’s largest inland lake and a hub for sailing, swimming, and water sports.
Known for its turquoise clarity, it’s one of the most active and refreshing Austrian lakes in summer.

Why Visit: Great for windsurfing, paddleboarding, and swimming

Who Should Visit: Adventure-seekers, sporty families, and solo travellers

Distance: 1 hr from Salzburg

Public Transport: Regional Bus 150 direct from the centre of Salzburg to Fuschl am See in 30 minutes.

Highlights

Sail, windsurf or kite on the breezy open water
Swim at natural beaches and beach clubs in Seewalchen
Explore lakeside towns like Unterach and Nußdorf
Enjoy a boat rental or paddle adventure
Walk Gustav Klimt-themed trails around the lake
From Unterach am Attersee, short walk to eastern shore of Mondsee

Where to Stay

Unterach am Attersee: Bright houses and relaxed rhythm. Klimt’s favourite summer spot.

Budget: Pension Sonnhof Attersee – Traditional Guesthouse with private

Nußdorf: Quiet base with family-friendly cafés and great water access

Mid-range: Seepension Neubacher – Beachfront family-friendly apartments

Attersee am Attersee: Lakeside charm with sailing heritage. Colourful villas withvibrant marina.

Midrange: Hotel Haberl – Lake-view comfort and good food
Budget: Weslhof– Farmstay experience in 2-or 3-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes, perfect for families.

Altausseer See – The Quiet Gem of the Styrian Alps

Deep in the Styrian Alps, Altausseer See is framed by mountains and pine forests. One of the lesser-known lakes of the Salzkammergut region. Known for literary retreats and slow travel, it’s the quieter alternative to Hallstatt.

Why Visit: A tranquil, alpine lake with breathtaking reflections of the Loser mountain. Its blend of nature and cultural history makes it special.

Who Should Visit: Writers, artists, and travellers seeking solitude with views

Distance: 1 hr 30 from Salzburg

Public Transport: Train to Bad Ischl or Stainach-Irding, then local bus services.

Highlights

Stroll the lakefront path for unbeatable views
Visit Altaussee village for traditional charm
Take a boat out or hike the Loser Panoramastraße
Explore WWII-era salt mine history and literary connections

Grundlsee – The “Styrian Sea”

Tucked in the Ausseerland region of Styria, Grundlsee is the largest lake in the state, backed by the rugged Tote Gebirge. The clear water, excellent water quality, and mountain scenery make it an attractive destination for those seeking relaxation and nature lovers. Calm and open, it’s a peaceful escape with a touch of mystery.

Why Visit: Broad, mirror-like waters and traditional lakeside charm
Who Should Visit: Slow travellers, nature lovers, and curious minds
Distance: 2 hrs 15 min from Salzburg

Public Transport: Train to Bad Ischl, then local bus services.

Highlights:
• Boat rides on glassy waters
• Hike the limestone peaks of the Tote Gebirge
• Day trip to the mysterious Toplitzsee
• Local smoked fish specialities
• Classic Austrian lake hotels

Zeller See – Where the mountain meets the lake

One of the most iconic lakes in Austria, Lake Zell sits right in Zell am See, a charming Alpine resort town in SalzburgerLand.
This crystal-clear lake is ringed by peaks, with the Hohe Tauern mountains mirrored in the water.
It’s got the feel of a classic resort — ideal for both lake days and mountain escapes.

Why Visit In summer, you can swim from manicured lawns, enjoy boat rentals, or simply soak up the view with a lakeside gelato. The walkable town blends modern cafés, alpine charm, and adventure activities.

Who Should Visit: Travellers who want a bit of everything — swimming, hiking, scenic drives, and nightlife — all in one spot.

Distance: 1 hr 30 min from Salzburg – direct train service available

Public Transport: 90-minute direct train from Salzburg to Zell am See.

Highlights

Swim from public lidos and peaceful lakefront parks
Paddleboard, kayak, or cruise across the lake
Take the Schmittenhöhe cable car for mountain views
Explore Kaprun: Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, reservoirs, and Sigmund Thun Gorge
Begin your Großglockner High Alpine Road journey here
Planning a road trip? Here’s our full guide to Driving the Großglockner High Alpine Road

Don’t miss our Zell am See-Kaprun Summer Bucket List for more ideas

Where to Stay

Zell am See– Base yourself here for walkability, lake access, and a traditional alpine town vibe.

Luxury: Grand Hotel Zell am See – old-school charm and premier lakeside location
Mid-range: Romantikhotel Zell am See. Hotel in a historic building just a few steps away from Lake Zell.
Budget: Hotel Lebzelter – Traditional Alpine Style hotel located in the centre of Zell am See

Kaprun Quieter than Zell but close enough for easy access. Home of Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Ideal for outdoor lovers.

Luxury: Tauern Spa Kaprun – 4-star superior hotel, spa, indoor and outdoor heated pools, 2 restaurants and epic Glacier views
Mid-range: Sonnblick The 4-star hotel is situated in the centre of Kaprun,
Budget: Austrian Alpine Getaways Self-catered studios, 1- and 2-bedroom apartments in the centre of Kaprun

Mattsee – Warm Waters in Salzburg’s Quiet North

Tucked into the Salzburg Lake District, Mattsee is a peaceful, lesser-known Austrian lake near the German border.
Surrounded by rolling countryside, it’s a calm retreat with some of the warmest swimming waters in Austria.

Why Visit: Mattsee is ideal for those wanting to slow down and enjoy an authentic, non-touristy Austrian lake experience.

Who Should Visit: Families, couples, and solo travellers seeking peaceful, warm-water swimming and small-town charm.

Distance: 40 minutes from Salzburg by car.

Public Transport: Regional Bus 121 from the centre of Salzburg to Mattsee.

Highlights

Swim and relax at Strandbad Mattsee
Rent pedal boats or paddleboards
Walk or cycle the easy lakeside path
Visit Schloss Mattsee with lake views and cultural exhibits
Grab a slice of cake at a café by the water

Where to Stay

Mattsee – A peaceful lakeside retreat ideal for swimming, sailing, and exploring Salzburg’s northern lake district.

Luxury: Schlosshotel Iglhauser – romantic setting, fine dining, lakefront terrace
Mid-range: Hotel Seewirt Mattsee– 4-star hotel with private beach
Budget: Gästehaus & Vinothek Strasser -Highly rated guesthouse

Wörthersee – Austria’s Glitzy Riviera

In Carinthia, southern Austria, Wörthersee is where the cool crowd goes to cool off. Warm waters, Mediterranean weather, and a social scene make it a summer magnet.

Why Visit: Wörthersee is Austria’s most glamorous lake — perfect for swimming, sipping spritzes, and celebrity-spotting in summer. Think speedboats, luxury villas, and chic cafés.

Who Should Visit: Party lovers, social travellers, and anyone who enjoys a little glitz with their lake views

Distance: 3 hours from Salzburg, 1 hr 30 minutes from Graz

Public Transport: Trains from Salzburg and Vienna via Graz arrive at Velden am Wörthersee and Klagenfurt.

Highlights

Lounge at beach clubs in Velden or Pörtschach
Jet-ski, water-ski, or take a sunset boat cruise
Nightlife along the waterfront in summer
Great jumping-off point for Southern Austria road trips
Stroll through Klagenfurt’s 800 year old town and soak up the Mediterranean vibes

Where to Stay

Klagenfurt A lively city base with easy access to Wörthersee’s eastern shore, ideal for combining lake days with cultural sights and vibrant dining

Luxury: Seepark Wörthersee Resort – modern wellness hotel with lake views and stylish spa facilities
Mid-range: Ibis Styles Klagenfurt – Centrally located hotel

Velden am Wörthersee– Stylish, buzzy, and always in season

Luxury: Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden – opulent castle-hotel with a private beach
Mid-range: Dei Hotel Schönblick -centrally located 4-star hotel
Budget: Hostel Velden – sociable, central, and no-frills

Pörtschach– Romantic and slightly quieter, with a promenade perfect for walks

Luxury: Hotel Seefels – spa, lake access, and understated luxury
Mid-range Parkhotel Pörtschach – Superior 4-star lakeside hotel
Budget: Hotel Diana – A family-friendly favourite

Millstätter See – A Blend of Nature and Culture

In the Carinthian Alps, Millstätter See is a serene Austria lake that combines forested trails, historic villas, and relaxed swimming spots. It’s a favourite for active holidays and long lakeside stays.

Why Visit: This lake is both tranquil and diverse — from hiking trails to spa hotels and cultural sites, you’ll find something for every pace.

Who Should Visit: Families, road trippers, or anyone seeking scenic walks and a break from the crowds

Distance: 2 hrs from Salzburg, 2 hrs 45 from Graz

Public Transport: From Salzburg, take the train to Spittal an der Drau and then a Regional Bus
From Vienna and Graz: Take the train to Villach and then take a Regional Bus.

Highlights

Swim at family-friendly spots in Millstatt and Seeboden
Cycle the lakeside trail or rent a kayak
Visit the Millstatt Abbey for some culture with your swim

Weissensee – Austria’s Cleanest Lake

Tucked away in Carinthia, Weissensee is Europe’s cleanest lake and a pioneer in sustainable tourism. Car-free and surrounded by forest, this is where to come for quiet, slow holidays.

Why Visit: No traffic, no noise — just turquoise water and unspoiled nature. Ideal for mindful travel and swimming in water so clean, you could drink it.

Who Should Visit: Eco-conscious travellers, wild swimmers, and anyone craving a digital detox

Distance: 3 hrs 15 min from Salzburg, or 3 hrs from Graz.

Public Transport: Train to Villach or Spittal an der Drau, then local bus services.

Highlights

Wild swim or paddle in crystal-clear water
Hike the peaceful forest trails
Stay in eco-certified hotels and family-run inns
Enjoy a true car-free experience in summer

Grundlsee – The “Styrian Sea”

North of Innsbruck in Tyrol, Achensee gleams beneath rugged peaks. It’s alpine, active, and refreshingly uncrowded compared to Salzburg’s lake district.

Why Visit: Dramatic mountain backdrop and vivid turquoise water
Who Should Visit: Active travellers, families, and water sports fans
Distance: 45 min from Innsbruck

Public Transport: Train from Innsbruck

Highlights

Swim from beaches at Maurach or Wiesing
Windsurfing, sailing and stand-up paddling
Panoramic hikes in the Karwendel Nature Park
Enjoy panoramic views from the Rofan cable car
Hike or cycle along the lakeside trail
Ride the nostalgic steam cog railway

Achensee – Tyrol’s Turquoise Treasure

Tucked in the Ausseerland region of Styria, Grundlsee is the largest lake in the state, backed by the rugged Tote Gebirge. Calm and open, it’s a peaceful escape with a touch of mystery.

Why Visit: No traffic, no noise — just turquoise water and unspoiled nature. Ideal for mindful travel and swimming in water so clean, you could drink it.

Who Should Visit: Eco-conscious travellers, wild swimmers, and anyone craving a digital detox

Distance: 3 hrs 15 min from Salzburg, or 3 hrs from Graz.

Public Transport: Train to Villach or Spittal an der Drau, then local bus services.

Highlights

Wild swim or paddle in crystal-clear water
Hike the peaceful forest trails
Stay in eco-certified hotels and family-run inns
Enjoy a true car-free experience in summer

Plansee – Crystal Waters & Forest Silence

Near the German border in northern Tyrol, Plansee feels like a hidden inlet — clear, emerald waters tucked among quiet forest slopes.
Located in the Reutte Nature Park region, Plansee is a beautiful Austrian lake and popular with hikers, bikers, fishers, windsurfers, and sailors.

Why Visit: Secluded alpine beauty with minimal crowds
Who Should Visit: Couples, solo travellers, and quiet-seeking nature fans
Distance: 1 hr 10 min from Innsbruck. 1 hr from Garmisch-Partenkirchen in Bavaria Germany.

Public Transport: Buses from Innsbruck or Garmisch-Partenkirchen.

Highlights:
• Canoe and swim in coves fringed by pine
• Hike the Ammergau Alps
• Spot wildlife from a rowboat
• Lakeside cycling and forest walks

Walchsee – Family-Friendly and Full of Sunshine

In Tyrol’s Kaiserwinkl region, Walchsee is a shallow, sunny lake perfect for summer swims and leisurely days by the water.
Walchsee is a perfect lake in Austria to combine water and mountain sports activities in one of the warmest lakes of Tyrol.

Why Visit: Warm water, family beaches, and easy activities
Who Should Visit: Families with kids, casual cyclists, and SUP fans
Distance: 1 hr 15 from Innsbruck; 1 hr 30 from Salzburg

Public Transport: From either Innsbruck or Salzburg, take the train to Kufstein then the Regional Bus 4030.

Highlights:
• Sandy lake beaches and playgrounds
• SUP and paddleboat rental
• Walk the flat lakeside paths
• Gentle hiking in the Kaiserwinkl valley

Piburger See – Hidden Forest Lake near Ötztal

Tucked in a forest above the Ötztal Valley in Tyrol, Piburger See is serene, small, and quietly magical.
Lake Piburger See one of the highest lakes, but also the warmest bathing lake in Tyrol, located at 913 metres (~3000 feet), surrounded by forests.

Why Visit: One of Tyrol’s oldest nature reserves with a fairy-tale feel
Who Should Visit: Nature-seekers, couples, and forest bathers
Distance: 45 min from Innsbruck

Public Transport: Approximate 40-minute train from Innsbruck to Ötztal train station, then a 15-minute bus to Oetz

Highlights:
• Swim in crystal waters from wooden jetties
• Forest trail loops around the lake
• Rowboat rentals and picnic spots
• Tiny lakeside chapel steeped in legend

Bodensee- Lake Constance – Three Countries, One Lake

Straddling the borders of Austria, Germany, and Switzerland, Lake Constance offers culture, gentle waters, and grand views.
Known as Bodensee in Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
Lake Constance is the third-largest lake in Central Europe, about 63 kilometres in length and 14 kilometres at its widest point, covering an area of approximately 536 square kilometres (207 square miles) with a maximum depth of 252 metres.

Why Visit: Culture meets nature on Austria’s international lakeside
Who Should Visit: Culture lovers, cyclists, and international travellers
Distance: 1 hr 40 from Innsbruck; 2 hrs 30 from Zurich

Public Transport: Trains direct to Bregenz

Highlights:
• Visit Bregenz and see a performance in its floating opera stage
• Cycle the lakefront path into Germany and Switzerland
• Take boat trips to Lindau, Meersburg or Mainau Island
• Explore the Bregenzerwald hills
• Art museums, architecture and Alpine flair
• Summer festivals and lakeside cafés
• Perfect for combining with international travel

Lunzer See – Lower Austria’s Woodland Hideaway

SIn the Mostviertel region of Lower Austria, Lunzer See lies surrounded by thick forest and rolling hills—a wild swim favourite.

Why Visit: Lower Austria’s only natural lake with forest peace and summer charm
Who Should Visit: Wild swimmers, hikers, and music lovers
Distance: 2 hrs from Vienna; 1 hr 30 from St. Pölten; 1 hr 40 from Linz

Public Transport: Take a train to Amstetten, then a Regional bus to Lunz am See

Highlights:
• Swim from sandy coves or sunbathe on the shore
• Rowboats and paddleboards for rent
• Forest trails and picnic spots
• Floating stage concerts in summer

Lake Neusiedl (Neusiedler See) – Eastern Austria’s Wild West Coast

On the edge of Burgenland, Lake Neusiedl stretches into the Hungarian steppe, known for wind, wine, and wide skies.
In less than an hour from Vienna, you can reach the second-largest lake in Austria. The region is popular for its cycle paths and vineyards.

Why Visit: Austria’s wildest lake with vineyards, sun, and windsurfing
Who Should Visit: Windsport fans, cyclists, and wine lovers
Distance: 50 minutes from Vienna

Public Transport: Trains direct from Vienna in under 1 hour to Neusiedl am see Train Station.

Highlights:
• Windsurf in Podersdorf or Neusiedl
• Cycle through vineyards and across borders
• Family lido beaches and shallow water
• Birdwatching in the UNESCO-listed national park

Which Austrian Lake Will You Jump Into First?

Austrian lakes promise something for everyone — from mountain reflections and alpine luxury to quiet forest dips and buzzing beach towns. Whether you’re travelling from Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck or Graz- there is a perfect Austrian lake that will be your ideal summer destination.

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