Klagenfurt, which was first mentioned in 1192, boasts one of Austria’s historic town centers and was thrice awarded the prestigious Europa Nostra Diploma for its lovingly restored arcaded Renaissance courtyards, which today accommodate modern boutiques, trendy bars, and authentic beer gardens. The Lindwurm, a winged dragon that is the landmark of the city was modeled on a legendary dragon, said to have resided in a swamp here long ago, dominates Neuer Platz.
A guided tour of the castle takes you back to the Middle Ages. There are also many museums and galleries of international reputation including the Museum of Modern Art, the Provincial Museum with its Roman findings (among them a life-sized bronze statue of a naked boy, called “The Youth from Magdalensberg”), the Wappensaal (heraldic hall), the Diocesan Museum and the Landhaus Gallery.
Bikers choose from a great number of well-maintained bike paths. Once a year in June Klagenfurt becomes the center of German literature: the Ingeborg Bachmann Prize, the most prestigious Austrian literary distinction, is awarded.
Traveling with kids? At Minimundus, the Miniature World at Lake Wörthersee, you can tour the world’s major sights and attractions in one afternoon.