Wels travel guide

Wels, nestled in the heart of Upper Austria, boasts a rich history that dates back to Roman times. The city, originally known as Ovilava, was a significant Roman settlement and an important administrative center in the province of Noricum. Evidence of its Roman past can still be seen today, with remnants of walls, buildings, and artifacts found throughout the city.

During the medieval period, Wels flourished as a market town, benefiting from its strategic location along trade routes. The city was granted town rights in 1218, which spurred its development as a hub of commerce and craftsmanship.

In the Renaissance era, Wels became renowned for its vibrant cultural scene, attracting artists, scholars, and merchants. The city's architecture from this period, including the striking Ledererturm and the Baroque-style Stadtpfarrkirche, reflects its historical significance.

Wels continued to grow and modernize through the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, it is known for its lively trade fairs, thriving industries, and rich cultural heritage. A stroll through Wels offers a glimpse into its layered history, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts.

Wels, a charming city in Upper Austria, boasts a rich tapestry of traditions and cultural norms that visitors should be aware of to fully appreciate the local experience. The people of Wels are known for their warmth and hospitality. A common greeting is a firm handshake, often accompanied by eye contact and a friendly smile. Respect for personal space is important; Austrians typically stand a bit further apart when conversing compared to other cultures.

Austrians in Wels take great pride in their punctuality, so it is considered polite to be on time for appointments or social gatherings. When dining, it is customary to say 'Guten Appetit' before starting your meal, and it’s courteous to wait until everyone is served before digging in. Tipping is also a common practice in restaurants and cafes, with a 5-10% tip being customary.

Local festivals and events, such as the annual Wels Carnival and the Wels Christmas Market, provide a vibrant glimpse into the city’s traditions. Dress modestly when attending these events, and be sure to show appreciation for local customs and performances. Learning a few basic German phrases can also go a long way in endearing yourself to the locals, as it shows respect and effort in engaging with their culture.

The best time to explore Wels, Austria is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild and the city is adorned with vibrant colors. These periods offer pleasant temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the picturesque streets without the summer crowds.

Summer (July and August) is also a popular time to visit, especially for those who enjoy festivals and events. The Welser Volksfest, held in late August, is one of the highlights, featuring traditional Austrian culture, music, and food. However, be prepared for higher temperatures and more tourists during this peak season.

Winter months (December to February) bring a serene charm to Wels, with fewer crowds and a festive atmosphere, particularly around Christmas. The Wels Christmas Market is a must-see, offering a magical experience with its charming stalls and holiday cheer.

To avoid the peak tourist season and enjoy a more relaxed visit, consider traveling in the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. This timing not only provides favorable weather but also allows you to experience the local culture and attractions at a leisurely pace.

When visiting Wels, make sure not to miss the unique experience of exploring the Traun River on a traditional 'Plätten' boat. This insider tip offers a serene and picturesque view of the city that many tourists overlook. These flat-bottomed wooden boats have been used for centuries and provide a tranquil way to see Wels from the water. Locals often recommend taking a guided tour on these boats to learn about the history of the river and the city. The calm ride allows you to soak in the natural beauty and historic charm of Wels at a leisurely pace. To enhance your experience, try booking a boat ride during sunset for a truly magical view. This hidden gem of an activity will give you a unique perspective and a memorable highlight of your trip.

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Wels, Austria. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Wels, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Austria. Check out the best things to do in Wels. Compare the rates and services of the 3 types of stays and car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Wels with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Wels from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Wels with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Wels travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the town of Wels!

With destinations such as Wels, a trip to Austria needs no further explanation. Spanning over 83,879 square kilometers, Austria is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Austria has something to enchant every traveler.

In Wels alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Burggarten Wels, Welios Science Center, and Ledererturm. Thus, a trip to Austria becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Austria offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Austria. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Austria and its offers.

Expect an exhilarating journey through Wels, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Wels offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Wels travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the town so special.

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a town as fantastic as Wels is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Wels usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Wels offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the town allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Wels and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Wels planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Wels, you'll find 3 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Austria can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Wels. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the town, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Wels.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Wels in the following sections.

To navigate Wels effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Wels, Austria below.

The town of Wels is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Austria. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Austria has it all.

Each destination in Austria offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Austria that are as magical as the town of Wels. The most popular travel destinations in Austria are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

Wels, Austria offers a variety of transportation options to make your visit smooth and convenient. The city's public transit system is well-developed, featuring buses that connect key areas and attractions. The bus network is reliable, punctual, and covers most of the city, making it a practical choice for getting around. For those preferring more personalized transportation, taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone and apps.

Rental car services are also an option in Wels, providing flexibility to explore beyond the city limits. Several rental agencies operate within the city, offering a range of vehicles to suit different needs.

A unique local experience is the availability of bike rentals. Wels is bike-friendly, with numerous cycling paths that offer a scenic and eco-friendly way to explore the city. Additionally, for travelers arriving by train, Wels Central Station (Wels Hauptbahnhof) is a major hub that connects to various Austrian and European cities, making it easy to reach neighboring destinations.