Linz

Linz, the capital of Upper Austria on the Danube, is one of Austria's most overlooked and surprisingly rewarding destinations — a city whose industrial heritage (it is home to one of Europe's largest steel plants) has been channelled into a remarkably creative contemporary culture. It was European Capital of Culture in 2009, an experience that transformed its self-image and infrastructure. The Ars Electronica Centre — a futuristic museum dedicated to the intersection of art, technology and science — is the anchor of the city's cultural identity. The annual Ars Electronica Festival in September attracts digital artists and technology innovators from around the world. The Lentos Art Museum, a glass building on the Danube riverbank, holds an excellent collection of modern Austrian art. The Linz Cathedral (Neuer Dom), at 134 metres the tallest church in Austria, and the baroque Old Cathedral are both impressive. The Hauptplatz (main square) is one of Austria's finest Baroque squares, and the Pöstlingberg hill to the northwest (accessible by Austria's steepest mountain tram) offers wonderful views over the city and the Danube. The old town's pedestrian zone is compact and pleasant. Linzer Torte — a latticed pastry tart with red currant jam, the world's oldest-known cake recipe — is the essential local food experience. The Danube cycle path through Linz is excellent. Day trips to the Salzkammergut, Kremsmünster Monastery and Mauthausen Memorial are all accessible from Linz.