--- title: 10 ideas for a summer you’ll never forget in Upper Austria url: "https://www.upperaustria.com/en/travel-ideas/what-you-absolutely-must-do-this-summer.html" description: Discover the top summer activities in Upper Austria, from mountain hut stays and lakeside relaxation to cultural events and gourmet dining. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers. image: "https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/user_upload/upperaustria/Logo_upperuastria_RGB_300x300px_Websites.png" date: 2024-03-06 modified: 2025-11-25 --- # 10 ideas for a summer you’ll never forget in Upper Austria Open copyright © www.moritz-ablinger.com Auswahl_1, Auswahl_2_Attersee, Jugend_am_See Sonnenuntergang und Sommerlaune am Attersee Close copyright ![Junge Menschen im Sonnenuntergang am Attersee](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/b/f/csm_2020-Jugend_am-See-HR-TVB-Attersee-Attergau-Moritz-Ablinger__15__d448e60604.jpg "www.moritz-ablinger.com Auswahl_1, Auswahl_2_Attersee, Jugend_am_See Sonnenuntergang und Sommerlaune am Attersee") ![Junge Menschen im Sonnenuntergang am Attersee](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/b/f/csm_2020-Jugend_am-See-HR-TVB-Attersee-Attergau-Moritz-Ablinger__15__5718e229a8.jpg "www.moritz-ablinger.com Auswahl_1, Auswahl_2_Attersee, Jugend_am_See Sonnenuntergang und Sommerlaune am Attersee") This summer is going to be unforgettable. What you absolutely must do this summer ======================================= Here’s the definitive bucket list featuring 9 ideas for a summer you’ll never forget in Upper Austria. ![Sternenpark Attersee-Traunsee](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/b/b/csm_20170529_003910_Johannes-Horvath_1140x641_a10d01ba24.jpg "Foto: Johannes Horvath: Sternenpark Attersee-Traunsee") 1. Gaze at stars Open copyright © Foto: Johannes Horvath: Sternenpark Attersee-Traunsee Close copyright **Make a wish - shooting star nights in Upper Austria** Every year between 17 July and 24 August, the [Perseids](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Perseiden "Preseiden auf Wikipedia") transform our night sky into a sparkling spectacle. On the night of 12 to 13 August, the shooting stars reach their peak - up to 100 meteors per hour can be observed in dark skies. So: grab a blanket, find your favourite spot and don't forget your wish list - it's going to be magical! Tip: Find a dark corner to watch shooting stars, for example in the [Attersee-Traunsee Star Park](https://www.oberoesterreich.at/oesterreich-poi/detail/430027875/sternenpark-attersee-traunsee-1-sternenpark-oesterreichs.html "Sternenpark Attersee-Traunsee"). [More information for stargazers](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/travel-ideas/things-you-must-do-in-2025/shooting-stars-and-the-best-places-to-look-at-the-stars.html) ![Goiserer Hütte bei Bad Goisern](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/1/e/csm_Goiserer_Huette_Foto_RudiKainPhotografie_2956ea2c50.jpg "Foto: Rudi Kain Photografie: Goiserer Hütte bei Bad Goisern") 2. Stay in a mountain hut Open copyright © Foto: Rudi Kain Photografie: Goiserer Hütte bei Bad Goisern Close copyright What makes spending the night in a mountain hut so extraordinary? It’s the untouched nature, the fresh, crisp air and the alpine allure. It’s the stunning views surrounded by the quiet and isolation of the mountains. Plus, it’s the cosy ambience and traditional fare, complete with delightful alpine treats. These elements combine to offer the ultimate in deep relaxation and rejuvenation. **Our tip:** Set your alarm and leap out of bed at dawn! Experiencing a sunrise high in the mountains, against a backdrop of awe-inspiring landscapes, is truly memorable. [Huts for overnight stays](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/activities/hiking/mountain-huts-and-alpine-pastures-with-accommodation.html) ![Junge Festivalbesucher tanzen vor einer Konzertbühne](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/6/6/csm_LinzHafenFestivalBuehne_OberoesterreichTourismusGmbHRobertMaybach_00036edcea.jpg "Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Robert Maybach Junge Festivalbesucher tanzen vor einer Konzertbühne") 3. Attend a summer festival Open copyright © Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Robert Maybach Junge Festivalbesucher tanzen vor einer Konzertbühne Close copyright This year’s festival season in Upper Austria promises to be a vibrant tapestry of colours. What takes your fancy? Moving to the rhythms of Parov Stelar at [“Lido Sounds” ](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-veranstaltung/detail/430159133/lido-sounds-2024.html "Link opens in new window")in Linz? Swinging to brass music at the [“Woodstock der Blasmusik”](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-veranstaltung/detail/430005592/woodstock-brass-music-the-international-brass-music-festival-in-innviertel.html "Link opens in new window") in the Innviertel region? Or maybe singing along to the world’s finest operettas at the [“Lehár Festival” ](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-veranstaltung/detail/430052532/lehar-festival-the-star-gazer.html "Link opens in new window")in Bad Ischl? Jazz aficionados can immerse themselves in the exquisite sounds at the “INNtöne Jazz Festival”. Musical lovers are in for a delight at the [Steyr Music Festival](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-veranstaltung/detail/430041183/steyr-music-festival.html "Link opens in new window"), showcasing “The Rocky Horror Show” this year. And classical music enthusiasts will feel as though they’ve ascended to seventh heaven at this year’s [Bruckner Festival](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-veranstaltung/detail/430242542/international-brucknerfest-linz-2024.html "Link opens in new window"). [Festivals, stages & traditions](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/activities/culture/festivals-stages-and-customs.html) ![Elisabeth Grabmer bereitet an einem Tisch im Gastgarten der Waldschänke in Grieskirchen ein Dessert.](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/b/6/csm_GrieskirchenWaldschaenkeGastgartenDessert_OberoesterreichTourismusUrlaubsregionVitalweltTomSon_19e5512c42.jpg "Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus/Urlaubsregion Vitalwelt/Tom Son: Elisabeth Grabmer bereitet an einem Tisch im Gastgarten der Waldschänke ein Dessert.") 4. Dine at a gourmet restaurant Open copyright © Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus/Urlaubsregion Vitalwelt/Tom Son: Elisabeth Grabmer bereitet an einem Tisch im Gastgarten der Waldschänke ein Dessert. Close copyright Indulge in something truly special this year: relish culinary brilliance at one of Upper Austria’s esteemed gourmet restaurants, where exceptional culinary talents whip up creative and unparalleled dishes of the highest calibre that tantalise the senses — all delivered by impeccable service staff. An indescribable and unforgettable dining experience awaits. The ambience in our gourmet restaurants varies from traditional to luxurious — always inviting, with an air of exclusivity and sophistication. Pick any restaurant you like but be warned: you may not want to leave! [All gourmet restaurants in Upper Austria](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/food-and-drink/top-restaurants.html) [The best Gault Millau restaurants](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/food-and-drink/gault-millau-the-best-restaurants-in-upper-austria.html) ![Ein Pärchen wandert auf der Gsengscharte, im Hintergrund der Buchstein](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/3/b/csm_NationalparkKalkalpenLuchstrailGsendscharteBuchstein_OberoesterreichTourismuGmbHMaxMauthner_24be601034.jpg "Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/MaxMauthner: Ein Pärchen wandert auf der Gsengscharte, im Hintergrund der Buchstein") 5. Trek on a long-distance trail or pilgrimage route Open copyright © Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/MaxMauthner: Ein Pärchen wandert auf der Gsengscharte, im Hintergrund der Buchstein Close copyright Set off on an inward journey and just walk. Contemplate life’s meaning or pursue a path of spiritual inquiry. Upper Austria is a haven for those seeking answers. Be it tracing St. Wolfgang Way from Bavaria to the Salzkammergut region, navigating [St. John’s Pilgrimage Route](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-tour/detail/100438/johannesweg-st-john-s-pilgrimage-route.html "Link opens in new window") through the Mühlviertel region, embarking on the [Lynx Trail](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-tour/detail/430006546/lynx-trail-through-austria-s-wild-centre.html "Link opens in new window") through Kalkalpen National Park or exploring any of the myriad other pilgrimage and long-distance trails: Upper Austria is your gateway to an extraordinary trekking adventure. [Long-distance trails in Upper Austria](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/activities/hiking/long-distance-hikes-in-upper-austria.html) ![Vier Freunde machen am bewaldeten Ufer des Vorderen Langbathsees ein Picknick. Drei Personen sitzen am Boden und unterhalten sich, eine Frau geht durchs seichte Wasser. Brot und Steckerlfische auf einem weißen Tuch, Rucksack und Bekleidung liegen neben den Personen am Boden. Im Hintergrund Wald und hoch steile Berge.](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/5/9/csm_SalzkammergutSommerHintererLangbathseePicknickWaldFreunde_OberoesterreichTourismusGmbHRobertMaybach_76a0dc1efb.jpg "Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Robert Maybach: Picknick am malerischen Hinteren Langbathsee im Salzkammergut.") 6. Enjoy a lakeside day Open copyright © Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Robert Maybach: Picknick am malerischen Hinteren Langbathsee im Salzkammergut. Close copyright The pristine lakes of the [Salzkammergut region](https://www.salzkammergut.at/en/ "Link opens in new window") transform into a summer haven for aquaphiles. Dive, sail, surf, kite or explore underwater to your heart’s content. A lakeside promenade walk, dining on fish skewers and the lake sunset craft an unforgettable summer day. [Swimming lakes in Upper Austria](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/activities/water-sports/bathing-in-upper-austria.html) ![Der Brauer steht im Sudhaus vor dem Sudkessel, hebt ein volles Glas Bier gegen das Licht und prüft kritisch das Getränk.](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/4/2/csm_Braumeister_OberoesterreichTourismusGmbHRobertMaybach_40f7d5d0d8.jpg "Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Robert Maybach: Ein golden funkelnder Schatz - Bier aus Oberösterreich.") 7. Brew your own beer Open copyright © Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Robert Maybach: Ein golden funkelnder Schatz - Bier aus Oberösterreich. Close copyright Beer enthusiasts take note! Brewing your own beer is simple and yields delicious results in Upper Austria. Learn the craft from master brewers in our breweries and soon gather your own brewed treasure. Brewing workshops are hosted by “[Braucommune Freistadt”](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-poi/detail/430010980/braucommune-in-freistadt-freistaedter-brauhaus-brewpub.html "Link opens in new window") in the Mühlviertel region, [“Brauerei Ried”](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-poi/detail/104197/brewery.html "Link opens in new window") and [“Beer Buddies” ](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-poi/detail/430017612/brauerei-the-beer-buddies-brewing-company.html "Link opens in new window")in Tragwein and for the keen learner, [“Linzer Bier” ](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-poi/detail/430029600/linzer-bier-brauerei.html "Link opens in new window")even offers a Beer University. [Breweries in Upper Austria](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/food-and-drink/breweries.html) ![Eine Frau und ein Mann wandern im Nationalpark Kalkalpen auf einem Steig, links vom Steig befindet sich Wald, rechts ein steiler Felsabbruch](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/7/7/csm_NationalparkKalkalpenWandernSteig_NationalparkKalkalpenSonjaSchaefer_6585b90c4b.jpg "Foto Nationalpark Kalkalpen/Sonja Schäfer: Eine Frau und ein Mann wandern im Nationalpark Kalkalpen.") 8. Visit a national park Open copyright © Foto Nationalpark Kalkalpen/Sonja Schäfer: Eine Frau und ein Mann wandern im Nationalpark Kalkalpen. Close copyright **Kalkalpen National Park** is a wilderness in the heart of Europe. Here, nature is sovereign, free to flourish and evolve unfettered and wild. Immerse yourself in this unique natural wonder, whether by foot on the [Lynx Trail](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-tour/detail/430006546/lynx-trail-through-austria-s-wild-centre.html "Link opens in new window"), mountain biking on the [TRANS NATIONALPARK TOUR](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-tour/detail/430008312/trans-national-park.html "Link opens in new window"), on horseback or led by a national park guide. [Kalkalpen National Park](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/kalkalpen-national-park.html) [Top 16 experiences in the Kalkalpen National Park ](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/kalkalpen-national-park/16-things-you-must-have-experienced-in-the-kalkalpen-national-park.html) ![Eine Frau sitzt am Gipfel des Signalkogels und blickt hinunter zum vorderen Langbathsee, sie greift sich dabei in die Haare](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/8/8/csm_SalzkammergutTraunseeAlmtalWandernSignalkogel_OberoesterreichTourismusGmbHNicoleKubiak_3e3f1d96ad.jpg "Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Nicole Kubiak: Eine Frau sitzt am Gipfel des Signalkogels und blickt hinunter zum vorderen Langbathsee") 9. Enjoy spectacular summit views Open copyright © Foto Oberösterreich Tourismus GmbH/Nicole Kubiak: Eine Frau sitzt am Gipfel des Signalkogels und blickt hinunter zum vorderen Langbathsee Close copyright There’s nothing quite like the exhilaration of standing atop a summit, surveying the landscape and taking a deep, fulfilling breath. Whether it’s reaching a peak on foot, climbing a via ferrata to the summit or enjoying a cable car ride to a scenic viewpoint. Here’s your guide to memorable summit adventures: [Hiking in Upper Austria](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/activities/hiking.html) [Mountainbiking in Upper Austria](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/activities/mountainbike.html) ![Ein Pärchen steht vor der Kaiservilla in Bad Ischl. Der Mann hält die Dame auf den Armen und lachen sich währenddessen an. Im Hintergrund die Kaiservilla und ein Brunnen mit viel schönen Blumen.](https://www.upperaustria.com/fileadmin/_processed_/c/6/csm_BergeSeeneTrail037_SalzkammergutKatrinKerschbaumer_196c9ff729.jpg "Foto: Salzkammergut/Katrin Kerschbaumer: Pärchen steht vor der Kaiservilla in Bad Ischl") 10. immerse yourself in the history and tradition of Bad Ischl Open copyright © Foto: Salzkammergut/Katrin Kerschbaumer: Pärchen steht vor der Kaiservilla in Bad Ischl Close copyright [Bad Ischl](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/regions-/-towns/oesterreich-stadt-ort/detail/430000967/bad-ischl.html "Bad Ischl") is the former summer holiday resort of the imperial family. Here you can visit the [imperial villa](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-poi/detail/430002121/imperial-villa.html "Kaiservilla") where Franz Joseph and Sisi resided. You should also visit the famous [Zaunerstollen](https://zauner.at/en/product-category/zaunerstollen/ "Zaunerstollen") of the former k. u. k. Court Bakery - a delicious dessert... You can relax in imperial style in the [Salzkammergut thermal spa](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/oesterreich-poi/detail/430004578/eurothermenreso/enrt-bad-ischl-salzkammergut-therme.html "Salzkammergut Therme")of the EurothermenResort, where you can feel the beneficial power of salt and brine. Find out what else you absolutely must see and experience in Bad Ischl on the bucket list "[What you must have done in Bad Ischl](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/activities/culture/what-you-cant-miss-in-bad-ischl.html)". [More about Bad Ischl](https://www.upperaustria.com/en/regions-/-towns/oesterreich-stadt-ort/detail/430000967/bad-ischl.html "Link zur Stadt Bad Ischl")