Mondsee is a scenic Upper Austrian town at the northern banks of Mondsee Lake and is named for the lake’s crescent-moon shape. Come to Mondsee to enjoy the “pearl in the Salzkammergut” and experience the lake’s breathtaking scenery as well as fishing, sailing, swimming and fine dining.
Explore Mondsee town to learn about the region’s fascinating history. Mondsee is home to a series of Neolithic pile dwellings, or stilt houses, that date back 5,000 years and are heritage-listed by UNESCO. Stop by the Basilica of St. Michael Collegiate Church to see the cloister church that hosted the wedding in the famous 1965 Austrian-set film The Sound of Music.
Wander down to the lake to enjoy stunning views of Drachenwand (Dragon Wall) Mountain, rising up dramatically from the lake’s southern banks. Several family-friendly hiking and bike trails can be found around Mondsee and nearby Irrsee. These trails range from short strolls to multi-day trips with lodging in hiker’s cabins. Discover lush forests and the oldest wooden church in Austria before relaxing with some regional plum or apricot schnapps.
Book a boat tour from town and explore the lake’s calm and picturesque waters. Swim at Alpine Beach to enjoy a sandy beach complete with a diving tower, water slide, children’s pool and playground. Rent watercraft such as kiteboards, canoes or small yachts. Try trout fishing in Mondsee Lake.
Mondsee features several highly rated restaurants and cafés serving traditional Austrian fare as well as modern cuisine. Try some local apple strudel and freshly baked rye bread from a traditional mill.
Mondsee is located in the Vöcklabruck district in the Upper Austrian Salzkammergut region. Reach Mondsee by car or catch a train from most major cities to Salzburg. From Salzburg, take the 1-hour bus trip to Mondsee. Salzburg International Airport is about 21 miles (33 kilometers) away. Mondsee offers stunning scenery in the warmer months and charming Weihnachts (Christmas) festivities in December.
