Dear travelers,
When I said I’d explore more of Austria, this wasn’t exactly what I had planned. While heading from Germany to Slovenia using BlaBlaCar, the car’s tire decided it had had enough right near Villach. Next thing I know, I’m hitching my first-ever tow truck ride (what an experience!) and spending an unplanned night in a town I’d barely heard of before.

Villach is a charming little city in Austria’s Carinthia region, surrounded by stunning mountains, rivers, and lakes. It’s also incredibly close to the Slovenian border—just 90 kilometers from Ljubljana—making it a perfect day trip if you’re in the area. While it may not be as famous as Vienna or Salzburg, Villach has a cozy charm and enough to offer that I’m honestly glad fate (and a flat tire) brought me here.
Whether you’re planning a quick stop or find yourself “stuck” like I did, here’s how to spend one day in Villach and make the most of your time in this underrated gem of Austria.

Villach’s Old Town
Villach’s Old Town is the kind of place that feels like stepping into a postcard. It’s colorful, cozy, and walkable—perfect for starting your day on the right foot.
What to See in Villach’s Old Town
Hauptplatz (Main Square):
- This is the heart of the town. Cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and cute little shops. The vibe is so relaxed you’ll want to sit down with a coffee and just people-watch for hours.
- Bonus: Check out the Trinity Column, a historic fountain in the center of the square.

St. Jakob’s Church & Francis of Assisi Church:
- St. Jakob’s Church: Villach’s tallest and most famous church. It’s beautiful from the outside, but the real treat is climbing its bell tower for a view of the town and the surrounding mountains.
- Francis of Assisi Church: A true hidden gem in Villach, this stunning church combines neo-Gothic and Romanesque architecture and is worth a visit for its peaceful atmosphere.

The Drau River Promenade:
- Just a short walk from the square, the river is calm and perfect for photos.

I decided to take a little break and stopped by a traditional Austrian konditorei called Rainer. The place had an incredible selection of desserts, and I couldn’t resist choosing the adorable pig-shaped treat you see in the picture. They were also selling marzipan pigs and ceramic pigs holding coins or four-leaf clovers. Naturally, I got curious—why are pigs such a big deal here?
Villach isn’t just about the cute Old Town—it’s surrounded by amazing nature. Depending on your mood (and energy levels), you’ve got a couple of great options for midday adventures.
Option 1: Take a Hike at Villacher Alpe (Dobratsch Nature Park)
If you love the outdoors, head to Dobratsch Nature Park. Here’s why it’s worth your time:
- Scenic Views: Whether you’re up for a full hike or just a short walk, you’ll get panoramic views of the town, the Alps, and even into Slovenia.
- Easy Access: If hiking isn’t your thing, you can just drive up the Villacher Alpenstraße, a scenic mountain road, and enjoy the views without breaking a sweat.
Top Tip: Pack a small snack or picnic to enjoy at the summit—it’s peaceful and Instagram-worthy.
Option 2: Chill at Warmbad Villach Spa
If hiking sounds like too much effort, treat yourself to some R&R at Warmbad Villach, a spa famous for its mineral-rich thermal waters. Here’s what’s waiting for you:
- Indoor and outdoor pools (with mountain views!).
- Saunas and wellness treatments that’ll leave you feeling brand new.
- A laid-back vibe that’s perfect after a hectic travel experience.
Option 3: Visit Lake Ossiach
Just a short drive from Villach, Lake Ossiach is a slice of pure serenity. Here’s what to do:
- Take a Walk: Stroll along the lakeside paths as the sun sets behind the mountains.
- Rent a Boat: If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a boat and paddle out for the best views.
- Dinner by the Lake: Enjoy your final meal of the day with a view. Seehotel Urbani is a popular choice.

When to Visit Villach
- Spring & Summer: Perfect for hiking, swimming, and exploring the Old Town.
- Winter: Ideal for skiing and soaking in the thermal spas.
Getting There:
- Villach is easy to reach by train, car, or bus. It’s located near the Austrian-Slovenian border, making it a convenient stop on a European road trip.
What started as an unexpected stop turned into a day full of surprises, stunning views, and delicious food. Villach may not be as famous as Salzburg or Vienna, but its charm is undeniable. So, if you’re ever near the Austrian-Slovenian border, do yourself a favor and spend a day here. You’ll leave with happy memories, a full stomach, and maybe even a plan to come back for more.
Truly yours,
The Creation of Us