Key Facts about St. Gilgen, Austria

Framed by the shimmering waters of Lake Wolfgang and the dramatic Salzkammergut mountains, St. Gilgen is a postcard-perfect Austrian village. Its Mozart connections, alpine traditions, and outdoor adventures make it a destination for all seasons. From summer boat rides and mountain hikes to festive Advent markets, St. Gilgen captures the timeless charm of Austria’s lake district.

10/1/20251 min read

Location

St. Gilgen is a charming lakeside village in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, situated on the northwestern shore of Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgangsee), about 30 km east of Salzburg.

Known for

Its breathtaking lakeside scenery, Mozart family heritage, traditional Austrian charm, and access to outdoor activities in the Salzkammergut mountains.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June): Mild weather, perfect for walking tours and lake cruises.
Summer (July–August): Lively atmosphere with swimming, sailing, and cultural events.
Autumn (September–October): Stunning foliage and wine harvest festivals.
Winter (November–February): Peaceful, with Christmas markets and nearby skiing opportunities.

Local Language

German. English is widely understood in tourist areas.

Currency

Euro (€).

Getting There

By car: About 30 minutes from Salzburg, accessible via scenic routes.
By train: Nearest station is Salzburg, with bus connections to St. Gilgen.
By air: Salzburg Airport (35 km) is the closest international airport.
By boat: Ferries connect St. Gilgen with other towns on Lake Wolfgang, such as St. Wolfgang and Strobl.

Top Attractions

Mozartplatz: A square dedicated to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, whose mother was born in St. Gilgen.
Zwölferhorn Cable Car: Panoramic gondola rides offering spectacular views of Lake Wolfgang and surrounding mountains.
Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgangsee): Swimming, sailing, and boat tours across crystal-clear waters.
Parish Church of St. Gilgen: A beautiful baroque church with historic charm.
Hiking Trails: Scenic routes into the Salzkammergut mountains.
Schafberg Railway (nearby): A historic cog railway leading to panoramic viewpoints.

Local Specialties

Freshwater fish dishes: Especially trout from Lake Wolfgang.
Austrian pastries: Strudel, Sachertorte, and kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake).
Hearty alpine cuisine: Schnitzels, dumplings, and regional sausages.
Local schnapps and Austrian wines.

Notable Events

Advent Market (December): Traditional Christmas market with stalls, lights, and music.
Wolfgangsee Advent Festival: A famous lakeside Christmas celebration with illuminated boats.
Summer Concerts: Celebrating Austrian music and culture.
Village Fairs: Seasonal events with folk music, food, and traditions.