Austria is famous for its stunning alpine landscapes, and its lakes are some of the most beautiful and diverse in Europe. With crystal-clear waters, charming villages, and breathtaking mountain backdrops, Austria’s lakes attract travellers looking to enjoy the natural beauty and outdoor activities. In this guide, we’ll explore some of Austria’s most stunning lakes, including Wolfgangsee, Neusiedlersee, and others, each with unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re interested in swimming, boating, hiking, or simply relaxing by the water, Austria’s lakes have something to offer every traveller.
Wolfgangsee, located in the scenic Salzkammergut region, is one of Austria’s most well-known lakes. Known for its clear turquoise waters and stunning alpine views, Wolfgangsee offers a perfect escape for those seeking tranquillity and natural beauty. The lake is surrounded by charming villages, including St. Wolfgang, Strobl, and St. Gilgen, with charming traditional Austrian architecture and a relaxed atmosphere.
Visitors to Wolfgangsee can enjoy a range of water activities, such as swimming, sailing, and paddleboarding. For those interested in exploring the lake’s surroundings, numerous hiking trails offer breathtaking views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. One popular hike is the Schafberg, a peak with panoramic views over Wolfgangsee and nearby lakes. You can reach the summit by hiking or taking the historic SchafbergBahn, a cog railway that offers a scenic journey to the top.
Wolfgangsee also offers boat tours, allowing visitors to relax on the water while enjoying the stunning scenery. These tours are a great way to explore the lake’s charming villages, and many stop at various points along the shore, allowing you to hop off and explore each town at your own pace.
Hallstätter See, located near the famous town of Hallstatt, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its striking beauty and historical significance. Surrounded by towering mountains and dense forests, Hallstätter See is a serene and picturesque lake that has become one of Austria’s most iconic landmarks.
Hallstatt is a must-visit with its narrow streets, historic buildings, and the iconic view of the town from across the lake. Visitors to Hallstatt can explore the Hallstatt Salt Mine, one of the oldest salt mines in the world, which offers guided tours and an opportunity to learn about the town’s salt mining history. The salt mine also features an underground slide, adding fun to the visit.
Hallstätter See is ideal for boat rides, and you can rent a small boat to explore the lake. The lake is also well-known for swimming during the summer, with designated areas for swimmers. Additionally, the nearby Dachstein Ice Caves and Five Fingers viewpoint offer unique excursions, allowing you to explore ice formations and enjoy panoramic views of Hallstätter See and the surrounding region.
Neusiedlersee, located in the Burgenland region, is unique among Austria’s lakes as it is a shallow steppe lake, similar to the lakes found in Central Asia. Spanning the border between Austria and Hungary, Neusiedlersee is known for its marshlands, reed beds, and rich birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
Due to its shallow waters and moderate climate, Neusiedlersee is a popular destination for windsurfing and sailing. The lake’s warm temperatures make it ideal for swimming during the summer months, and there are several lakeside resorts and beaches where visitors can relax and enjoy the sun. The surrounding Neusiedlersee-Seewinkel National Park offers a variety of trails for hiking and cycling, allowing visitors to explore the region’s unique ecosystem and spot some of the 300 bird species that inhabit the area.
For wine enthusiasts, the Burgenland region surrounding Neusiedlersee is famous for its vineyards and wineries. Many local wineries offer tastings and tours, letting you sample some of Austria’s best wines while enjoying the beautiful lake views.
Achensee, often called the Sea of Tyrol, is the largest lake in Tyrol, known for its stunning emerald-green waters and alpine surroundings. Located between the Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges, Achensee is a popular destination for outdoor activities and a favourite spot for locals and tourists.
Achensee is ideal for water sports such as sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing due to its favourable wind conditions. There are also several bathing areas around the lake to relax and swim in the clear, refreshing water. For those who prefer to stay on land, the Achensee region offers numerous hiking and cycling trails with beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The Achensee Railway, a historic steam cog railway, provides a unique way to travel from Jenbach to Achensee, offering a scenic ride through the Tyrolean landscape.
Winter visitors to Achensee can enjoy activities such as ice skating and cross-country skiing. Achensee's stunning beauty and various activities make it a year-round destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Weissensee, located in Carinthia, is one of Austria’s most pristine lakes, known for its clear blue waters and untouched natural surroundings. The lake is part of a nature reserve, which means there are strict regulations to protect its environment,resulting in a peaceful and pristine environment.
Weissensee is a popular destination for swimming in the summer, as the lake’s water quality is excellent, and the temperature is usually warm enough for a comfortable swim. The lake is also known for its scenic hiking trails and breathtaking views of the lake and its forested surroundings. Cycling and mountain biking are also popular activities in the area, with several well-maintained trails available.
In winter, Weissensee transforms into a winter wonderland, with parts of the lake freezing over to create Europe’s largest natural ice rink. This unique feature attracts ice skaters globally, and the annual Weissensee Ice Skating Marathon is a highlight of the winter season. Weissensee’s commitment to sustainable tourism makes it an ideal destination for those looking to experience Austria’s natural beauty while respecting the environment.
Zeller See, located near Zell am See, is a family-friendly lake surrounded by the Hohe Tauern mountain range. Known for its beautiful setting and crystal-clear waters, Zeller See is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
The lake offers a range of water activities, including swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding, making it an ideal spot for a family day out. Zeller See is also known for its scenic boat tours, which allow visitors to relax and enjoy the stunning mountain views. The town of Zell am See, located on the lake’s shore, offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and family-friendly attractions.
For those interested in hiking, there are numerous trails around Zeller See, ranging from easy lakeside walks to more challenging mountain hikes. The nearby Schmittenhöhe ski resort offers skiing and snowboarding in winter, making Zeller See a great year-round destination.
Plansee, located in Tyrol near the German border, is one of Austria’s lesser-known lakes, making it a perfect destination for those seeking a peaceful and uncrowded experience. Surrounded by mountains and forests, Plansee offers a tranquil setting with opportunities for outdoor activities.
Plansee is ideal for swimming, fishing, and boating, with several areas designated for bathing and boat rentals available. The lake is known for its excellent water quality, making it a popular spot for diving. Hiking trails around Plansee offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, providing a peaceful escape into nature.
Despite its secluded location, Plansee is accessible by car and offers a few camping and lodging options, making it an ideal choice for travellers looking for an undiscovered destination in Austria.
Wörthersee, located in Carinthia, is Austria’s warmest lake and is often compared to the Mediterranean due to its vibrant turquoise waters and lively atmosphere. Known as Austria’s Riviera, Wörthersee attracts visitors looking for a beach-like experience in the heart of the Austrian Alps.
The lake is well-known for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, and the town of Velden, located on the lake’s western shore, is known for its vibrant nightlife and casino. Wörthersee also hosts several events throughout the year, including the Wörthersee GTI car meet, which attracts car enthusiasts from around Europe.
Visitors to Wörthersee can explore the surrounding region by hiking or cycling, and the lake’s warm temperatures make it ideal for summer activities. Wörthersee’s Mediterranean-like ambiance and range of activities make it a unique and exciting destination in Austria.
If you’re planning to explore Austria’s lakes, renting a car is one of the best ways to travel conveniently and independently. A rental car lets you visit each lake at your own pace, enjoy scenic routes, and explore less accessible areas. With Finalrentals Austria, you can find various affordable rental options to suit your travel needs, from compact cars for solo trips to larger vehicles for family vacations. Renting a car provides the flexibility to design your itinerary, allowing you to visit lakes that might not be easily accessible by public transport.
While Wolfgangsee and Achensee are popular destinations with ample public transport options, places like the tranquil shores of Plansee or the secluded beauty of Fuschlsee are better reached by car. You can explore these hidden gems without worrying about fixed schedules or crowded buses with your vehicle. Additionally, car renting offers the convenience of stopping at charming villages along the way, such as the charming town of St. Gilgen near Wolfgangsee or the scenic lakeside village of Hallstatt near Dachstein. You can make spontaneous stops to take in the views, snap some photos, or even enjoy a quiet moment by the water.
At Finalrentals Austria, we offer various cars to suit any traveller’s needs. Whether you're looking for a small, fuel-efficient car or a spacious SUV for family adventures, you’ll find the perfect vehicle for your trip. We pride ourselves on offering affordable rates, flexible rental terms, and excellent customer service, ensuring your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Moreover, renting a car in Austria with Finalrentals is hassle-free. Our simple booking process lets you choose your vehicle and pick-up location to start your adventure immediately. No matter where you land—Vienna, Salzburg, or another city—your rental car will be ready and waiting. With drop-off locations nationwide, you can end your trip effortlessly.
So, if you’re ready to explore Austria's stunning lakes and enjoy the beauty of the Alps at your own pace, rent a car in Austria. Book with Finalrentals today and plan your unforgettable adventure to Austria's lakes.
Austria’s lakes feature diverse landscapes, from peaceful mountain reflections to vibrant bird-filled wetlands. Each lake offers something unique from the clear, alpine waters of Wolfgangsee to the wind-swept shores of Neusiedlersee. With the convenience and freedom of renting a car in Austria, you can easily explore these stunning spots at your own pace.
From fishing and boating to hiking and sightseeing, there’s something for every traveller to enjoy. Renting a car allows you to experience the full beauty of Austria’s lakes without the limitations of public transport. And with Finalrentals Austria, you can do so affordably and with peace of mind. Don’t miss out on the chance to create unforgettable memories on the tranquil shores of Austria’s lakes. Plan your trip today, rent a car, and discover the beauty of the Austrian lakes from your perspective.
Book your rental car with Finalrentals Austria and start your lakeside adventure today!
