Steyr
Steyr is a charming city located in the northern region of Austria. This city has a population of over 39,000 people, making it the 12th largest in Austria. Steyr is renowned for its charming ancient town and the stunning natural beauty that envelops it. The municipality boasts a captivating historical heritage and has been inhabited since ancient times.
Steyr operates as a statutory city, with its own municipal constitution and administration, which is independent from the surrounding district of Steyr-Land. This city serves as the administrative capital of the district and is the third largest in Upper Austria, following Linz and Wels.
Steyr is located in the Traunviertel region, nestled in the beautiful foothills of the Alps. The area is encompassed by picturesque hills and forests, and experiences a moderate climate with four distinct seasons. The city is separated by the Steyr and Enns rivers, which converge near the charming town center. The rivers have been crucial in shaping the city’s growth, serving as a vital source of water, power, and transportation. In the past, they have also been responsible for significant flooding, with the most recent occurrence in 2002.
Steyr boasts a rich and illustrious history as a hub of industry and culture. The castle of the Traungau family was first mentioned in a document in 980 AD. The castle underwent further expansion and served as the residence for the Otakar dynasty, who held dominion over Styria and Carinthia. During the 13th century, Steyr was granted town privileges and quickly flourished as a bustling trading center, particularly known for its iron and salt trade. The town was renowned for its mint, which manufactured coins for various rulers and regions.
During the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance, Steyr experienced a period of prosperity as it became a vibrant hub for art and intellectual pursuits. Several impressive buildings and monuments were built during this time, including the Gothic parish church, the Rococo town hall, and the Bummerlhaus, which is a remarkable example of Gothic architecture. Steyr was also a residence for numerous notable individuals, including the astronomer and mathematician Georg von Peuerbach, the poet and diplomat Johannes von Tepl, and the composer and organist Johann Pachelbel.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, Steyr experienced a decline in its significance. This was a result of various factors such as wars, plagues, fires, and economic crises. Nevertheless, there was a resurgence of interest in the 19th and 20th centuries, driven by the emergence of new industries like textile, machine, and vehicle production. Steyr developed into a significant industrial hub, hosting esteemed companies like Steyr-Daimler-Puch, Steyr-Werke, and Steyr-Mannlicher. These companies manufactured a wide range of products including firearms, bicycles, motorcycles, cars, trucks, tractors, and engines.
Steyr has successfully preserved its rich cultural heritage and identity, even in the face of the changes and challenges brought about by the modern era. The city took great care in preserving and restoring its historic buildings and monuments, while also actively promoting its rich traditions and vibrant festivals, including the Christkindlmarkt, the Steyrer Kripperl, and the Steyrer Musiksommer. The city also nurtured a lively artistic and educational community, boasting numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and schools. Steyr has a rich cultural heritage, boasting a vibrant music and literary scene. The city has been home to renowned composers, writers, and poets, including Franz Schubert, Anton Bruckner, Adalbert Stifter, and Christine Lavant.
Today, Steyr is a city that seamlessly blends the charm of its rich history with the excitement of modern progress. It effortlessly combines traditional elements with innovative ideas, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors from around the world. This city is a vibrant blend of industry, culture, nature, technology, history, and future. The city is known for its warm hospitality and diverse range of experiences and opportunities for visitors. The city takes pride in its rich history while also embracing its future with optimism. This city is definitely worth discovering and exploring. Steyr is a city.
Currency
Country
Area code
Population
Area
Official language
Elevation
Time zone
Tourism In Steyr
Steyr, a charming Austrian city, offers a diverse range of attractions and landmarks, including the historic old town, Schloss Lamberg, Christkindl Church, Steyr Valley Railway, and Museum Arbeitswelt. The city is also known for its Christmas market, one of Austria’s oldest and most beautiful, which attracts thousands of visitors annually. Steyr is surrounded by parks and nature reserves, offering outdoor activities and scenic views.
In 2020, Steyr had 1,033,000 overnight stays and 1,100,000 day visitors, a decrease of 13.6% and 15.2% from 2019. The main source markets for overnight stays were Austria, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. The main attractions and events attracted tourists in 2020 were the historic old town, the Christkindl pilgrimage church, the Steyr Valley Railway, the Steyr Christmas Market, and the Musikfestival Steyr.
The tourism strategy of Steyr for 2021–2025 has set ambitious goals to boost the city’s tourism industry. The plan aims to attract 1.2 million overnight stays and 1.3 million day visitors by 2025. To achieve this, the strategy focuses on promoting the city’s rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, and industrial offerings. Additionally, the plan emphasizes the importance of improving the quality and variety of tourism products and services.
Geography Of Steyr
Steyr, the administrative capital of Upper Austria, is a picturesque city located in the Traunviertel region, northeastern Upper Austria. With a population of around 38,000 people, it is the 12th most populated town in the country and the 3rd largest city in Upper Austria. Steyr is situated at the confluence of the Steyr and Enns rivers, which form a Y-shaped junction.
Steyr is located in a picturesque valley, enveloped by rolling hills and majestic mountains from the Upper Austrian Prealps. The city has a well-balanced urban and rural structure, with the old town serving as the heart of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture, while the new town represents the city’s progress and industrial development. The rural areas showcase the city’s natural beauty and agricultural heritage.
Located approximately 40 km southeast of Linz and 200 km west of Vienna, Steyr spans 26.48 km2 and is comprised of 13 districts, each with its own unique name. The city’s elevation varies from 310 m (1,017 ft) to 380 m (1,247 ft) above sea level. The highest point in Steyr is the Jägerberg, which stands at 379.8 m (1,246 ft), while the Enns River sits at a lower point at 310 m (1,017 ft) above sea level.
Weather & Climate In Steyr
Steyr’s climate is warm and temperate, with four distinct seasons and moderate precipitation throughout the year. The city is in the Cfb climate zone, which has a humid continental climate with warm summers and no dry season. The climate of Steyr is influenced by a number of factors, including its geographical location, elevation, proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf Stream, local topography, and level of urbanization and industrial activity.
On a daily and yearly basis, the temperature and precipitation in Steyr vary significantly. The temperature typically peaks around noon and falls to its lowest point in the early morning hours. Precipitation tends to be highest in the afternoon and evening, and lowest in the early morning and at midnight. Seasonal variations in temperature and precipitation are also observed. Precipitation is highest in the summer and spring.
Steyr’s temperature and precipitation can vary greatly depending on the weather and climate variability. Steyr experienced a scorching temperature of 37.4 °C (99.3 °F) on August 8, 2013, during a heat wave that swept through Central Europe. Steyr experienced an unusually cold spell that impacted Eastern Europe on January 12, 1987, resulting in a record-breaking low temperature of -24.8 °C (-12.6 °F).
Demographics Of Steyr
Steyr, a town in Austria, has a population of 38,193 as of January 2019. The population reached its highest point in 1971, with 40,822 people, and has since experienced a slight decline. In 2017, the local population was primarily Austrian nationals, accounting for 81.5%. A significant portion of the population was from former Yugoslavia, with the exception of Slovenia and Croatia, and Turkey, accounting for 8.4%.
In 2001, the Roman Catholic faith was the most prevalent, with 61% identifying as such. Other significant ethnic groups included Croats (3.3%), Serbs (3%), Turks (2.4%), and Bosnians (2.1%). The birth rate is 5.6 per 1000 people, below the national average of 9.5 per 1000 people, while the death rate is 16.6 per 1000 people, exceeding the national average of 9.6 per 1000 people.
The migration rate is 9.1 per 1000 people, exceeding the national average of 5.5 per 1000 people. Steyr is known for its cultural diversity, with a rich tapestry of ethnic groups and languages spoken. The majority of the population is Roman Catholic, but there are followers of Islam, Orthodox Christianity, Protestantism, and other religions. The town offers a lively cultural scene with festivals, concerts, theatres, cinemas, and museums.
Districts & Neighborhoods in Steyr
Steyrdorf, Steyr’s oldest district, has a long history dating back to Celtic and Roman times. It is located on the right bank of the Steyr river, directly across from the town square. The town is known for its narrow streets, medieval houses, and historic monuments, such as the Bummerlhaus, a stunning example of Gothic architecture in Central Europe. Steyrdorf’s Lamberg Castle has a long history dating back to the 10th century.
Christkindl, a charming neighborhood on the outskirts of Steyr, is known for its beautiful pilgrimage church and delightful Christmas market. Built in the 18th century, the church houses a wax statue of the Christ Child and a grand mechanical nativity scene. The Christmas market is one of the oldest and most popular in Austria, offering traditional handicrafts, delicacies, and music.
Münichholz, the northernmost district of Steyr, was developed in the 20th century to serve as both residential and industrial area. With a population of around 12,000 residents, it is the most populous in the area. The Steyr-Daimler-Puch factory, established in 1864, has a rich history of manufacturing vehicles, engines, and weapons. Münichholz also has a spacious park with recreational amenities like a swimming pool, skate park, and playground.
Economy Of Steyr
Steyr, Austria’s medieval city, has a rich cultural and architectural heritage dating back to ancient Celtic and Roman times. The city’s iron industry played a significant role in the 19th and 20th centuries, as it became a key component of the Steyr-Daimler-Puch conglomerate. Steyr-Daimler-Puch produced a wide range of vehicles, engines, and weapons, employing a large workforce and driving innovation.
The industrial sector in Steyr is robust and varied, with notable companies such as BMW Motoren, SKF, ZF, and Engel specializing in various fields. The city’s rich industrial heritage is showcased in museums like the Museum of Working World, the Schmollgruber Iron Clock Museum, and the Steyr Fire Brigade Museum. Steyr’s agriculture plays a crucial role in its economy, providing food, income, and employment.
Steyr has a long-standing tradition of wine production, particularly in the districts of Gleink and Sankt Ulrich. Steyr’s tourism industry is experiencing significant growth, drawing in both domestic and international visitors with its diverse cultural and natural offerings. The old town of Steyr features a remarkable preservation of Gothic and Rococo architecture, including the Bummerlhaus, Town Hall, Parish Church, and Lamberg Castle.
Culture and Local Tradition of Steyr
Steyr, a city in Upper Austria, is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, dating back to its medieval roots as a hub for iron production and trade. The city’s iron and steel industry, which flourished during the 19th and 20th centuries, is showcased in museums like the Museum of Working World, the Schmollgruber Iron Clock Museum, and the Steyr Fire Brigade Museum.
Steyr’s musical and literary scene is vibrant, with numerous festivals and events celebrating its rich traditions and creativity. The city is the birthplace of renowned composers like Michael Haydn, Johann Nepomuk David, and Kurt Schwertsik, and the resting place of Anton Bruckner. Steyr has also inspired numerous writers, including Adalbert Stifter, Franz Michael Felder, and Christine Nöstlinger.
Steyr’s folklore and customs are captivating, with various folk groups showcasing the region’s cultural heritage. The Steyrer Kripperl, a traditional puppet theatre that brings Christmas stories to life, is recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage. Other notable groups include the Steyrer Schmieden, a collective of skilled blacksmiths, and the Steyrer Schiffer, a dedicated group of boatmen preserving river transport traditions.
History Of Steyr
Steyr, a town in Upper Austria, boasts a fascinating history that stretches all the way back to 600 BC. It has gained renown for its thriving ironworking industry. The region was inhabited by the Celts around 600 BC and later became part of the Roman Empire in 15 BC. The Roman “Iron Road” stretched from the Erzberg mine along the Enns River to the castra of Lauriacum on the Danube.
Slavic settlers arrived in the sixth century, but were defeated by Duke Tassilo III of Bavaria. In 777, the land was granted to the nearby Kremsmünster Abbey and resettled with Bavarians. During the Hungarian invasions of Europe, the Otakar dynasty ruled over 1055 Steyr Castle in the Bavarian Traungau. The Otokars took control of the iron mining operations in Erzberg and turned Steyr into a center of medieval courtly culture and Middle High German poetry.
During the Austrian Civil War, Steyr became a site of conflict between Social Democratic Schutzbund paramilitary forces and Christian Social Heimwehr militias, leading to the establishment of the fascist corporate Federal State of Austria. The armament industry was integrated into the Reichswerke Hermann Göring conglomerate by Nazi authorities, which oversaw the establishment of the Steyr-Münichholz subcamp.
Best Time To Visit Steyr
Steyr is a charming Austrian town that offers a variety of activities and attractions to suit different seasons. The optimal time to visit Steyr is during the spring and summer months, specifically from April to September. The weather is mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). The town is vibrant and full of life, with a plethora of events and activities to partake in.
Autumn (October to November) is a good time to avoid crowds and enjoy the fall foliage. The weather is mild and sunny, with low rainfall and moderate sunshine. The scenery is warm and cozy, with fewer events and activities. Winter (December to February) is a good time to experience the Christmas spirit and enjoy winter sports. The weather is cold and snowy, with high rainfall and low sunshine.
Spring (March to May) is a good time to witness the awakening of nature and enjoy spring festivals. The weather is warm and sunny, with high rainfall and sunshine. The town is lively and vibrant, with the Steyr Music Festival and other events and activities. Steyr is worth visiting at any time of the year, as it caters to a variety of interests and preferences. It is crucial to thoroughly research and carefully plan your trip to fully appreciate your stay.
How to Get to Steyr
Steyr, Austria is easily accessible by plane, bus, or train. The nearest airport is Linz (LNZ), located 27 km away. Transportation options include taxis, buses, or renting a car. If flying to Vienna, Salzburg, or Graz, you can take a train or bus to Steyr. Steyr is conveniently located near major highways, with the A1 west, A1 east, and A1 south for travelers from Vienna, Salzburg, or Linz. Take the Steyr exit and follow signs to reach the town.
Parking options include street parking with a meter or authorized facilities provided by the town. For those coming from different directions, it is advisable to study maps and use GPS devices for navigation. Travel to Steyr by rail is easy due to its excellent connectivity with major cities in Austria and Europe. Research train timetables from your departure location and use the Austrian Federal Railways (BB) website to access schedules and buy tickets.
When traveling from another country, it’s important to check the arrival destinations in Austria, such as Vienna or Linz, as they have train links to Steyr. The train station in Steyr is conveniently situated in the heart of the town, allowing for easy exploration on foot or access to local bus services. Rail travel is a convenient and cost-effective way to go to Steyr, Austria, but it is advisable to plan and confirm train timetables in advance.
Attractions & Landmarks In Steyr
Steyr is a charming Austrian town that often goes unnoticed by tourists, despite the abundance of captivating sites and activities waiting to be explored. The Schloss Lamberg is a beautiful castle situated on a hill, offering a breathtaking view of the town. The Steyrer Stadtpark is a pleasant park situated in the heart of the town. This area is perfect for a relaxed walk or enjoying a meal outdoors.
The Stadtplatz serves as the heart of the town and is home to the popular weekly farmers’ market. The plaza is adorned with charming antique structures and a diverse selection of food outlets and coffee shops. The Christkindlmarkt is a beloved Christmas market that occurs annually in December. There is a wide range of merchants in the market who specialize in locally made goods, food, and beverages.
The Museum Arbeitswelt is a highly regarded institution that is committed to safeguarding the nation’s industrial heritage. The exhibition explores the impact of industrialization on Austria and the broader European region. There are many more activities and sights to explore in Steyr. This region boasts a rich historical legacy and a plethora of captivating attractions to cater to the entertainment needs of its visitors.
Things To Do In Steyr
Steyr, a charming town in Upper Austria, is known for its rich history and beautiful old town center. Visitors can explore the Steyr Old Town, which features the Gothic Bummerlhaus, the Baroque Christkindl Church, the Renaissance Lamberg Castle, and the medieval Zwischenbrücken. The Steyrtalbahn, a narrow-gauge railway, offers scenic views of the Steyr valley and the National Park Kalkalpen.
The 1. Österreichisches Weihnachtsmuseum, also known as the First Austrian Christmas Museum, is a unique and incredibly fascinating place to visit in Steyr. The museum offers an enthralling exhibition of the numerous customs and lengthy history associated with Christmas in Austria and other countries. It has an amazing collection of antique toys, dolls, and Christmas tree ornaments, as well as a charming mechanical nativity scene.
A remarkable natural and cultural gem, the National Park Kalkalpen is tucked away in Austria’s magnificent Northern Limestone Alps. Covering 20,825 hectares, this area protects the largest remaining forest wilderness in Central Europe. The park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including the rare Austrian Alps lynx population. Beautiful karst scenery, isolated canyons, and pure mountain streams can all be found in the park.
Food & Drinks In Steyr
Steyr, a charming town in Upper Austria, is known for its rich history, stunning views, and vibrant cultural offerings. It offers a wide range of cuisines, local delicacies, and charming cafes to indulge in. Some of the top traditional restaurants in Steyr include Restaurant Mader, Wirtshaus Knapp am Eck, Gasthaus Zur Alpe, Restaurant Minichmayr, Franz Ferdinand Bar, and Cafe Rahofer.
Restaurant Mader is a long-standing and highly esteemed establishment in Steyr. It boasts a wide range of traditional Austrian and Central European dishes, as well as seasonal and modern creations. Additionally, guests can enjoy the beautiful garden terrace that overlooks a charming river. The restaurant is open every day of the week and offers a range of dishes priced between 10 euros and 20 euros per person.
Steyr is known for its vibrant beer scene, offering a variety of beers from Austria and beyond. Some of the best beer gardens in Steyr include Biergarten am Fluss, Biergarten im Schlosspark, and Biergarten im Stadtplatz. Biergarten am Fluss is a cozy beer garden on the Enns river’s banks, offering local and regional breweries, snacks, and dishes like sausages, burgers, and salads.
Shopping In Steyr
Steyr is a vibrant shopping destination with a variety of shops, outlets, and malls selling clothing, accessories, books, and souvenirs. Some of the best places to go shopping in Steyr include City Outlet, City Point, and Taborland. City Outlet is a cozy outlet in a historic building that offers discounted brands like Adidas, Nike, Puma, and Tommy Hilfiger. It also features a large terrace for relaxation and river views.
City Point is a modern and stylish mall near the Enns River, offering a variety of shops catering to different tastes and budgets. It features a food court, a lively atmosphere, and frequents events and activities like live music and fashion shows. Taborland is located in the old town and offers a variety of stores, including Interspar, Müller, Depot, and Libro, selling groceries, cosmetics, stationery, and toys. It also has a playground and a café.
Other shops worth visiting in Steyr include Bernanderl Upcycling, a unique and creative shop that offers original and sustainable products made from recycled materials. It has a friendly atmosphere and helpful staff. Ulrich, a traditional and family-run shop, offers quality and beautiful products like jewelry, watches, and glasses. Steyr offers a diverse shopping scene with various shops, outlets, and malls offering a variety of products and experiences.
Nightlife in Steyr
Steyr is a vibrant shopping destination with a variety of shops, outlets, and malls selling clothing, accessories, books, and souvenirs. Some of the best places to go shopping in Steyr include City Outlet, City Point, and Taborland. City Outlet is a cozy outlet in a historic building that offers discounted brands like Adidas, Nike, Puma, and Tommy Hilfiger. It also features a large terrace for relaxation and river views.
City Point is a modern and stylish mall near the Enns River, offering a variety of shops catering to different tastes and budgets. It features a food court, a lively atmosphere, and frequents events and activities like live music and fashion shows. Taborland is located in the old town and offers a variety of stores, including Interspar, Müller, Depot, and Libro, selling groceries, cosmetics, stationery, and toys. It also has a playground and a café.
Other shops worth visiting in Steyr include Bernanderl Upcycling, a unique and creative shop that offers original and sustainable products made from recycled materials. It has a friendly atmosphere and helpful staff. Ulrich, a traditional and family-run shop, offers quality and beautiful products like jewelry, watches, and glasses. Steyr offers a diverse shopping scene with various shops, outlets, and malls offering a variety of products and experiences.
