This little town, filled with classically Austrian Baroque architecture, makes the perfect base for exploring the castle-strewn landscape of Carinthia.
Visiting Sankt Veit an der Glan is like stepping into a postcard. Wander streets lined with beautiful Baroque buildings and explore the surrounding countryside, which is scattered with historic sites. Leave plenty of time to take advantage of the many opportunities the area offers for outdoor activities, too.
Start your tour of Sankt Veit an der Glan in the Hauptplatz, or main square, which is surrounded on all sides by ornate buildings that are centuries old. See the many signs of this town’s former importance and wealth. Up until the early 16th century, it was the capital of Carinthia. One of the most impressive relics of these glory days is the Rathaus, or town hall, located here in the square. Be prepared to want to take dozens of photos of this magnificent building, a masterpiece of 15th-century Gothic architecture. After taking in the elaborate details of the façade, step inside to be overwhelmed by its marvellous courtyard.
Learn more about the town’s history at Museum St. Veit, which also stands on the square. See colourful displays featuring mannequins in traditional costumes and stop to watch the model train do its circuit of the miniature railway line.
One of the town’s more modern must-see sights is the Kunsthotel Fuchspalast. Be amazed by the surreal presence of this unique and colourful hotel, which seems very out of place in this traditional Austrian town. The building was designed by Ernst Fuchs, a leader of the 20th-century Wiener Phantistischer Realismus, or Viennese Fantastic Realist, art movement.
Come to Sankt Veit an der Glan in the last week of September to enjoy the Wiesenmarkt, a bustling annual fair. Fly into Klagenfurt Airport, which is less than half an hour away by car. Take advantage of the fact that Sankt Veit an der Glan is a great base for daytrips to the many castles and other historic sites that make Carinthia so special. Be sure to visit Castle Hochosterwitz, a medieval castle perched dramatically atop a cliff. And set aside a day or two to hike, swim or sail in the wonderful countryside of Carinthia.
