St. Pölten

Since 1986, Sankt Pölten, sometimes known as Sankt Pödn in the Bavarian-Austrian dialect, has been the state capital. Ranked eighth among all Austrian cities, it is the most populated city in Lower Austria with a population over 56,000 as of January 1, 2021.

Tucked amid the beautiful Alps’ foothills, the city gently stretches across the Traisen river’s banks covering around 108 square kilometers. It is uniquely tripartite, holding simultaneously statutory city, municipality, and district. The area around Sankt Pölten has a rich history of human settlement going back to the Stone Age, which helps the city to be either the most ancient or among the most revered cities in Austria.

On November 17, 2016, the Community of Protestant Churches in Europe awarded upon Sankt Pölten the prestigious title of “Reformation City of Europe,” therefore ranking the 75th city to get this esteemed distinction.

Together with the cultural and historical legacy of the city itself, the city calls to visitors wishing to fully experience the varied and brilliant landscapes of Lower Austria. From traditional hotels and guesthouses to ideal campsites and rural farm stays, Sankt Pölten has a wide range of lodging choices. To accommodate a broad range of preferences and financial constraints, the city also features a varied array of gastronomic venues ranging from restaurants to cafes, bars to pubs. Sankt Pölten provides easy access and smooth travel by means of road, train, and air, therefore enabling great connectivity to other important cities in Austria and Europe.

Four different seasons define the continental climate of Sankt Pölten. Comfortable 9.4°C is the mean annual temperature; July is the hottest month (19.3°C) and January is the coldest (-0.7°C). The city has a modest annual average of 698 mm of precipitation; June is the wettest month (86 mm) and February the driest (38 mm). Snowfall graces the city, especially in the higher elevations, throughout the winter.

While the remainder population consists of foreign nationals mostly from Germany, Turkey, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Romania, the bulk of the population—88.7%—is Austrian citizens. Roman Catholic (60.8%) is the most often identified religious affiliation; followed by those claiming no faith (18.6%), Orthodox Christian (6.4%), Muslim (5.1%), and Protestant (3.3%). Although German is the official language of the city, a minority of people speak other languages like Turkish, Serbian, Croatian, and English.

Sankt Pölten offers a rainbow of seasons; spring is the best time to come because of the efflorescence of flowers, lush surroundings, and mild temperature. The height of the tourist season, summer is marked by warm temperatures and a wealth of outdoor pursuits. Autumn provides the amazing display of color, a profusion of harvest celebrations, and the chance to visit historical sites such Pottenbrunn Castle, St. Pölten Cathedral, and the Landesmuseum. Though chilly and snowy, winter radiates a festive and romantic atmosphere that offers lots of chances for winter activities such ice skating, snowshoeing, and skiing. Winter also provides the magic of Advent concerts, Christmas markets, and exuberant New Year’s Eve celebrations. Sankt Pölten offers, all those who visit a distinctive and fulfilling experience.