Top 100 best museums in Upper Austria

Linz Castle, perched on a hill, offers a panoramic view of the old town of Linz and the Danube. The castle's location is historically significant as it is built on the site of the ancient Roman fort of Lentia. This blend of history and scenic beauty makes it a fascinating spot for visitors.

The Hallstatt Museum, located in Hallstatt, Upper Austria, is renowned for its unique collection of discoveries from the local salt mines and Iron Age cemeteries near the mines. These collections provide a deep insight into the Hallstatt culture, making the museum a significant site for historical and archaeological enthusiasts.

Mauthausen-Gusen was a collection of Nazi concentration camps located around the small Austrian town of Mauthausen, approximately 20 km east of Linz. The main camp was established shortly after Austria's Anschluss and evolved into one of the most notorious concentration camps. The camp was situated near a granite quarry that supplied a large portion of the stone used for paving the streets of Vienna.

The Zeitgeschichte Museum Ebensee is a historical regional museum situated in the market town of Ebensee, in the Austrian state of Upper Austria. This museum is dedicated to the political contemporary history of the Salzkammergut region between 1918 and 1955. It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to delve into the historical events that shaped this region during this period.

The Lentos Art Museum, located in Linz, Austria, is a modern art museum that opened its doors in May 2003. It succeeded the Neue Galerie der Stadt Linz, also known as the New Gallery of the City of Linz. The museum is a significant destination for art enthusiasts and tourists alike, offering a comprehensive collection of modern art.

The Museum Lauriacum is situated in the city of Enns, within the district of Linz-Land in Upper Austria. This location makes it easily accessible for tourists visiting the region, offering a unique opportunity to delve into the rich history of the area.

Ars Electronica is an annual festival that takes place in Linz, Austria. It is dedicated to promoting art that is closely linked with digital technology and societal issues. This event is a unique opportunity for tourists to explore the intersection of art, technology, and society in a dynamic and engaging setting.

The Schmiding Zoo spans an area of 13 hectares and showcases the wildlife of various regions of the world. Visitors can expect to encounter a diverse range of animals, including giraffes, monkeys, broad-mouthed rhinos, crocodiles, red pandas, Austria's only gorillas, Siberian tigers, sloths, and exotic birds. This diversity makes the zoo a fascinating destination for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.

Ebelsberg Castle, located in the Ebelsberg district of Linz, Austria, is a historical site with a rich military history. The castle was first mentioned in historical records in 1154 and has been the site of numerous military conflicts over the centuries. The most famous of these conflicts is the Battle of Ebelsberg, which took place in 1809 during the Napoleonic Wars. This battle is a significant event in the castle's history and is likely to be of interest to tourists with an interest in military history.

The most important steel production factories of Voestalpine AG are located in Linz, Leoben, and Krems. These locations are significant as they are the heart of the company's steel production operations.

Franz Jägerstätter was an Austrian conscientious objector during World War II. He was born in Sankt Radegund, a small village in Upper Austria, between Salzburg and Braunau am Inn, where almost everyone was Catholic. He was sentenced to death and executed for refusing to fight for Nazi Germany. His story is a significant part of the history of Sankt Radegund and is likely to be of interest to tourists visiting the area.

Großdöllnerhof is a historical site that dates back 400 years. It is located in the Mühlviertel Nature Park in the municipality of Rechberg. Today, it serves as an open-air museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The farmstead is a protected monument, showcasing the typical Mühlviertel technique of stone-bare wall construction. This technique involves the use of uncut granite blocks and whitewashed mortar zones to structure the exterior walls.

Hartheim Castle, also known as Schloss Hartheim, is a significant Renaissance castle located in Alkoven, Upper Austria, approximately 14 kilometres away from Linz, Austria. The castle was constructed by Jakob von Aspen in 1600 and stands as a prominent example of Renaissance architecture in the country.

The Lehár Villa in Bad Ischl, located at Lehár-Kai 8 in the Salzkammergut region, was once the summer residence of the famous composer Franz Lehár. He purchased the property in 1912 from the Duchess of Sabran and spent nearly every summer there. This historical connection adds a unique charm to the villa, making it an interesting destination for those interested in Lehár's life and work.

A museum dedicated to the Pöstlingbergbahn, one of the world's steepest railways, located in its former terminus.

The Ochzethaus is a Roman experience museum situated in Altheim, Upper Austria. Originally a farmhouse in the rural community of St. Laurenz, it was acquired by the Altheim municipality in 1993 and converted into a museum. The name 'Ochzethaus' is derived from the river name 'Ache', colloquially known as 'Och'.

The Museum Arbeitswelt in Steyr is a unique institution that explores the changes in life and work since the era of industrialization. It provides a comprehensive view of the evolution of work and life, offering insights into the impact of industrialization on society. Visitors can expect to gain a deeper understanding of the historical and contemporary issues related to work and life in the industrial age.

The Marmorschlössl, historically known as the imperial cottage, is located in the Kaiserpark of Bad Ischl. It was used by Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth as a breakfast salon. This historical significance adds a unique charm to the place, making it an interesting spot for tourists who are keen on history and royal life.

The Kinderweltmuseum Schloss Walchen housed approximately 1200 exhibits, with a primary focus on the lives of children in different social milieus. The museum aimed to provide a comparative view of the lives of children from bourgeois, peasant, and worker backgrounds.

Reichenstein Castle, located in the town of Reichenstein in the municipality of Tragwein in the district of Freistadt in Upper Austria, is a semi-ruin of a castle that was converted into a chateau. The castle is situated on a narrow, steeply sloping rock ridge above a river loop of the Waldaist. The castle offers a unique blend of historical architecture and natural beauty, making it a fascinating destination for tourists.

The Bauernmuseum Mondseeland and the open-air museum Mondseer Rauchhaus are two interconnected museums located in Mondsee, Upper Austria. These museums provide a comprehensive display of agricultural work, tools, and buildings, offering visitors a unique insight into the region's agricultural history and practices.

The Bauernmuseum Mondseeland and the open-air museum Mondseer Rauchhaus are two interconnected museums located in Mondsee, Upper Austria. These museums provide a comprehensive display of agricultural work, tools, and buildings. Visitors can gain a deep understanding of the region's agricultural history and practices through the exhibits.

Today, Schloss Stauff serves a dual purpose. It houses the registry office of Frankenmarkt, and it also contains a museum. Visitors can explore the museum to learn more about the castle's history and the region's cultural heritage.

The Freilichtmuseum Stehrerhof is a monument-protected ensemble of buildings located in Neukirchen an der Vöckla in Upper Austria. This location is a significant part of the region's history and culture, offering visitors a unique insight into the past.

The Mühlsteinmuseum Steinbrecherhaus is a unique museum located in the city of Perg. It is a simple worker's house that was built in the early 19th century. The house is situated on the grounds of the Scherer millstone quarry in the Obervormarkt area of the city. This location provides a unique insight into the lives of the workers who lived and worked in this area during the 19th century.

The Stollen der Erinnerung, located in the city of Steyr in Upper Austria, is a permanent exhibition dedicated to the history of forced labor and concentration camps. This museum provides a deep insight into a significant part of history, making it a valuable visit for those interested in historical events and their impact on society.

The Zoo Linz is situated at the base of the Pöstlingberg, offering visitors a panoramic view over the city of Linz. This location not only provides a unique setting for the zoo but also adds to the overall visitor experience. From this vantage point, tourists can enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings while exploring the diverse range of animals housed in the zoo.

This museum documents the fascinating craft of iron clock-making. Exhibits more than 400 years old.

Welser Tiergarten, located in the city of Wels, holds the distinction of being the oldest zoo in Upper Austria. This park and zoo combination offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.

The Nordico City Museum is situated in the city hall district of Linz, Austria, specifically at Simon-Wiesenthal-Platz 1. This location is easily accessible and central, making it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city.

The Cumberland Wildpark is a wildlife park situated in the beautiful region of Upper Austria, specifically in the Salzkammergut, near Grünau im Almtal. This location offers a unique blend of natural beauty and wildlife, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The Linz Museum for the History of Dentistry is a unique institution that showcases a variety of objects related to the history of dentistry and dental technology. Visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits, from ancient dental tools to modern dental appliances, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolution of dental care over the centuries.

The Francisco Carolinum is an art museum located in Linz, Upper Austria. It was inaugurated by Emperor Franz Joseph I on May 29, 1895. The museum is dedicated to national and international positions of photography and media art.

The Offene Kulturhaus Oberösterreich (OK), also known as the OK – Center for Contemporary Art, is a significant art institution located in Linz, Austria. It is operated by the Upper Austrian State Culture GmbH OÖLKG. The center serves as an exhibition and production house for contemporary art, focusing on installation and media art by mostly younger, internationally active artists, as well as performance art. It provides a total of 1800 m² of exhibition and production space.

The Tiergarten & Reiterhof Walding is a zoological garden nestled in the market town of Walding, situated in the upper Mühlviertel in the Urfahr-Umgebung district of Upper Austria. This location offers a serene and natural environment, making it an ideal place for a family outing or a day trip for nature and animal lovers.

Zoo Linz, situated at the foot of Pöstlingberg, offers a unique view over the city. This location not only provides a scenic backdrop for your visit but also a natural habitat for the animals. The zoo's location enhances the overall experience, making it more than just a visit to see animals.

The Stadtmuseum Leonding, also referred to as the Turmmuseum, is situated in Tower 9 of the Linz Tower Fortification in Leonding. It has been functioning as a museum since 1999, providing a unique blend of history and culture to its visitors.

St. Marienkirchen an der Polsenz is a quaint market town located in the Hausruckviertel in the Eferding district of Upper Austria. As of January 1, 2023, the town has a population of 2349 residents. This charming town offers a unique blend of history and culture, making it an interesting destination for tourists.

Museum Angerlehner is a private institution dedicated to contemporary art, situated in Thalheim bei Wels. This museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the world of contemporary art in a serene and welcoming environment. It is a place where art enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the latest trends and movements in the art world.

The Salzkammergut Nature Museum is a natural history museum nestled between the towns of Ebensee and Bad Ischl in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria. It is conveniently located on the Salzkammergut Road (B 145), making it easily accessible for visitors.

The Florianerbahn, located in Upper Austria, is a museum tramway. However, it is currently not operational due to ongoing construction work. This means that tourists will not be able to experience a ride on the tramway, but can still learn about its history and significance.

The Aignerhaus Open Air Museum is a collection of rural buildings situated in St. Georgen im Attergau, Upper Austria. The main building of the museum is a protected monument, showcasing the architectural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore this unique ensemble of buildings and gain insights into the rural life and associated crafts of the past.

Pramet is a quaint village nestled in the Innviertel region of Upper Austria. It is situated approximately 7½ kilometers south of Ried im Innkreis, making it a peaceful retreat away from the bustling city. The village is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, offering a serene environment for visitors to explore and enjoy.

The Freilichtmuseum Keltendorf Mitterkirchen is a unique open-air museum that offers a glimpse into the life of the Celts during the Hallstatt period, which spanned from 800 to 450 BC. The museum is a reconstructed Celtic village, providing an immersive experience for visitors to understand the lifestyle, culture, and traditions of the Celts during this historical period.

Museumsdorf Trattenbach is a unique open-air museum located in Trattenbach, Upper Austria. The museum stretches over a length of 1.5 kilometers and is known for its traditional pocket knife production. Visitors can witness the creation of these knives in the original workshops situated along the Trattenbach stream. The museum offers a unique insight into the traditional craftsmanship of knife making.

Freistadt Castle, located in the Upper Austrian Mühlviertel, is a historical monument that was constructed between 1363 and 1398. The castle was built to strengthen the fortifications of the town of Freistadt. This historical significance adds to the charm and appeal of the castle, making it a point of interest for tourists visiting the area.

Villa Sinnenreich, located in Rohrbach-Berg, is an interactive museum where visitors can experience a variety of phenomena and sensory illusions. The museum offers different stations and art objects that allow visitors to engage with and explore these phenomena in a hands-on manner. This unique experience offers a new perspective on perception and sensory experiences.

The Stadtmuseum Steyr, situated at Grünmarkt 26 in Steyr, Austria, has been a significant cultural institution since its establishment in 1913. The museum's collections are housed in two historic buildings: the Innerberger Stadel and the neighboring Neutor. These buildings provide a unique setting for the museum's diverse collections, which span various periods and themes.

The SKGLB-museum, located in Mondsee, Upper Austria, is a railway museum dedicated to preserving the history of the Salzkammergut-Lokalbahn (SKGLB). It provides a unique insight into the region's railway history and is a significant cultural landmark.

The Messerermuseum in Steinbach an der Steyr is a museum dedicated to the history of knife makers and blade smiths. It provides a comprehensive look into the craft of these artisans, their significance to the population, and the regional settlement development. The museum is housed in the front building of the former knife factory Franz Pils & Sons, where the museum's concept is implemented on three floors.

The Green Belt Center, located in Windhaag bei Freistadt, is a visitor center that opened its doors in 2015. It is situated in the northern Mühlviertel, directly on the border with South Bohemia. This location makes it a unique destination for those interested in exploring the region's history and natural beauty.

The Evangelical Museum of Upper Austria, located in the old, protected primary school of Rutzenmoos in the market town of Regau in the Vöcklabruck district, is dedicated to the history of Protestants in Upper Austria. This museum, established at the end of the 20th century, provides a unique insight into the Protestant history of the region.

The imperial Burg Wels is a castle-like fortress that is situated in the southeast of the city center of Wels, Upper Austria. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a chance to delve into the rich history of the region. The castle's strategic location and its historical significance make it a notable point of interest for tourists visiting Wels.

The Hinterglasmuseum in Sandl, established in 1989, showcases exhibits of reverse glass painting, a technique that was characteristic of Sandl in the 19th century. This unique art form is a significant part of the region's cultural heritage and provides a fascinating insight into the traditional crafts of the area.

Welios Science Center is a permanent exhibition that focuses on renewable energies. It is designed following the concept of a Science Center, providing an interactive and educational experience for its visitors. The center is dedicated to promoting knowledge and understanding of energy efficiency, energy saving, and particularly renewable energies.

Paneum, also known as Wunderkammer des Brotes, is a museum located in Asten, Upper Austria, dedicated to the millennia-old culture of bread-making. The museum is situated at the headquarters of the food manufacturer Backaldrin. It offers a unique insight into the history and culture of bread-making, showcasing exhibits collected over 30 years.

The Firefighting Museum St. Florian is dedicated to showcasing the history and evolution of firefighting in Upper Austria. As the largest firefighting museum in Austria and one of the largest worldwide, it offers a comprehensive insight into the techniques, equipment, and societal role of firefighting over the years.

Schloss Hohenbrunn was constructed between 1722 and 1732 by master builder Jakob Steinhuber, following the designs of Jakob Prandtauer. This historical context adds a layer of cultural significance to the castle, making it a point of interest for visitors interested in architecture and history.