Villach, Austria
Villach, also known as Villaco or Beljak, is a charming town in the heart of Carinthia, Austria. It's a perfect stopover when traveling between northern and southern Europe. The town offers comfortable accommodation options, excellent local cuisine, and a relaxed small-town atmosphere.
Where to park in Villach?
If you're planning to explore the center, a great parking spot is located on Moritschstrasse (1; GPS: 46.611921, 13.847683). It’s spacious and just a short walk from the old town. From there, it's only about 200 meters along Moritschstrasse and 10-Oktober-Strasse to reach the main square.
Exploring the Old Town
Before reaching the Hauptplatz, you’ll pass St. Jakob's Church (A; GPS: 46.6132261, 13.8452711) on your left — a late Gothic church with a unique ceiling and an elegant pulpit. It marks the beginning of the main square.
The Hauptplatz (Main Market Square) (B; GPS: 46.613360, 13.846147) is the beating heart of the city. Its centerpiece is the Trinity Column — a baroque monument likely created by Franz Bettini. Around it, you'll find historic townhouses, including the Hotel Post, which dates back to 1525.
The square gradually leads into Bahnhofstrasse and a bridge over the Drava River. Crossing to the opposite side gives you a scenic view of the town. On the way back, stroll through the narrow streets, then head toward your parking spot. Consider grabbing a bite to eat — the center is full of cozy restaurants and cafés. We recommend Konditorei und Restaurant Rainer at Oberer Kirchenplatz 5 (C; GPS: 46.61287, 13.84495) — great food and atmosphere!
Just outside the city, you'll find Warmbad Villach — a spa and wellness center perfect for relaxing after sightseeing. The town also has good train connections and easy access to the A2 motorway. In summer, Villach hosts many festivals, markets, and outdoor concerts, all set against a beautiful Alpine backdrop.