About
Sankt Pölten is the capital of Lower Austria and, as the country's youngest state capital, it offers a visit that moves easily between the old and the new. It sits in the heart of the region, a practical and pleasant city for travellers who want to combine time in town with trips into the countryside.
The historic old town
The old town is where much of the city's character lies. Its baroque architecture gives the streets a gracious, unhurried feel, and visitors will find churches and squares worth taking time over. Walking from one to the next is the simplest way to see it, with plenty of reasons to stop along the way.
Contemporary culture
Alongside the older quarters, the cultural district shows a different side of the city. It is home to contemporary art and to the Festspielhaus, a concert hall that is well known in the area. For visitors interested in music or modern art, this part of town makes a natural counterpoint to the baroque centre.
A visit here suits those who enjoy looking at architecture and culture in equal measure. The contrast between the historic streets and the newer venues is one of the things that gives the city its charm.
A base for the Danube Valley
Sankt Pölten is also an convenient base for exploring the surrounding Danube Valley, a wine region. Staying in the city gives easy access to the valley's vineyards and landscapes, so you can spend days in town and then head out to the countryside.
- Explore the baroque old town on foot, with its churches and squares.
- Visit the cultural quarter for contemporary art and concerts at the Festspielhaus.
- Use the city as a base for trips into the Danube Valley wine region.