An independent cultural development and an innovative art and culture scene make Linz the European Capital of Culture 2009. Even before that, however, some very special events are offered in conjunction with this occasion.
Events like the Ars Electronica and the Bruckner Festival have brought international attention to this historic city, and encouraged many to visit Linz, while the busy Danube port contributes to a whole host of attractions that create the magic of a Linz city break.
Linz tourism is second to none. The large main square is surrounded by baroque buildings including the Landhaus, the seat of the provincial government, and the Altes Rathaus (old town hall) with its pretty arcade courtyard. In the three-storey Mozart House, Wolfgang Amadeus composed his "Linz Symphony" in 1783. According to legend Emperor Friedrich III died in Kremsmünster House in 1493; his heart was laid to rest at the romantic Stadtpfarrkirche. West of Hauptplatz is Schloss Linz dating back to the Renaissance period.
At Martinskirche, some areas of which date from the year 788, Linz has one of Austria’s oldest original churches, in contrast to the neo-Gothic new cathedral (consecrated in 1924) which seats 20,000, Austria’s largest place of worship. The Botanical Garden with its 10,000 different plants makes for a wonderful green retreat in a bustling city. While the bright yellow Linz City Express, a Danube pleasure cruiser or the Pöstlingbergbahn, Europe’s steepest narrow gauge train, offer a choice of ways to explore the city.
Special events abound on a Linz city break. The Linz Landestheater and the Kammerspiele theatre stage many wonderful plays, and with its diverse bars, pubs, clubs, and discos a Linz holiday also has a vibrant nightlife. Other highlights include the Linz Culture Summer, the Linz Street Theatre Festival, the famous Bruckner Festival, the Linz Klangwolke (sound cloud) and the Ars Electronica Festival (a technology exhibition with avant-garde music). And for those who want to celebrate the magic of Christmas, Linz brings the mystery of the nativity alive with its special exhibition from November to December 25th.
Linz Austria has an allure based on its history, its river port, its architecture, and its hospitality – there are many Linz hotels offering the sort of welcome worth leaving home for – so visit Linz and take home memories to share.
More Information and Linz City Breaks & Hotels:
Linz Tourist Office
Hauptplatz 1, A-4010 Linz
Tel: +43-732-7070-1777
Fax: +43-732-772873
Email:
tourist.info@linz.at
www.linz.at 
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