Burgenland & Neusiedlersee
300 days of sunshine and Austria's biggest family theme park ☀️🎢
Burgenland differs significantly from the rest of Austria; instead of high Alpine peaks, families will find the vast Pannonian plain and a mild, sunny climate that lasts well into autumn. The region's centerpiece is Lake Neusiedl, a steppe lake so shallow that adults can often stand waist-deep hundreds of meters from the shore. This makes it an exceptionally stress-free swimming destination for parents with young children who are just learning to navigate the water.
The flat landscape is perfect for cycling. The B10 Neusiedler See Cycle Path is a favorite for families, offering paved routes with minimal elevation gain, allowing even younger kids to ride their own bikes. Along the way, you can spot rare birds in the reed belt or stop at a local 'Heuriger' (wine tavern) where children can drink fresh grape juice while adults sample local vintages.
For a day of pure excitement, Familypark St. Margarethen offers roller coasters, petting zoos, and fairy-tale themed attractions suitable for various ages. History comes alive in a manageable way at Forchtenstein Castle, which houses a vast collection of weapons and armor that often fascinates older children. The region's capital, Eisenstadt, is home to the Esterházy Palace, offering dedicated children's tours that explain the life of composer Joseph Haydn in an engaging, interactive format.
Accommodation options range from farm stays (Urlaub am Bauernhof), where kids can help feed animals, to modern thermal spa resorts like the St. Martins Therme. This spa caters specifically to families with a dedicated children's area and research station, making it a great option if the weather turns cooler. The culinary scene is hearty and approachable, with Pannonian dishes that often share flavors with neighboring Hungary.
Click a region to explore
Activities & Best Times
Hiking, wildlife, outdoor exploration, ecotourism
Home to the UNESCO-listed Neusiedl-Seewinkel National Park, offering world-class birdwatching and unique Pannonian steppe ecosystems. Peak months (May-Sep) provide optimal wildlife activity and mild temperatures for exploration; winter months (Nov-Mar) are too cold and damp for significant wilderness engagement.
Events, celebrations, seasonal attractions
Renowned for high-culture lakeside opera at Mörbisch and the authentic 'Martiniloben' wine harvest traditions. Summer peak (Jun-Sep) offers world-class outdoor performances, while November is a significant shoulder month for the traditional wine-blessing season despite colder weather.
Spa retreats, wellness centers, peaceful getaways
Features internationally recognized thermal retreats like St. Martins Therme, which combine high-end luxury with authentic regional nature. Peak season (May-Sep) allows for outdoor pool use and lake-side relaxation; winter temperatures near freezing make outdoor wellness activities unsuitable according to international standards.
Sport tourism, fitness activities, active recreation
A premier European cycling destination with over 1,000km of well-maintained trails and world-class windsurfing/sailing conditions on the lake. Peak conditions align with moderate temperatures (16-22°C average) and consistent winds; winter is too cold for active aquatic or cycling pursuits.
Beach resorts, marine activities: diving, snorkelling, kite surfing, wind surfing, sailing
Neusiedler See is a shallow steppe lake with reedy shores, not comparable to actual beach destinations internationally. It offers unique lake recreation but 'very_good' for Beach & Sea overstates the experience against Mediterranean/Caribbean/Southeast Asian calibration. Carinthia's warm, clear lakes (Wörthersee) rated 'good' are arguably superior for swimming, creating an inconsistency.
Urban tourism, museums, historical sites, architecture
Rich Haydn heritage in Eisenstadt and preserved Pannonian architecture in Rust offer a sophisticated, authentic cultural experience. Peak months coincide with mild weather (max 15-26°C) and full museum access, while the off-season sees many cultural sites restricted or closed.
Learning experiences, scientific sites, historical education
Excellent ecological education at the National Park center and Roman historical sites like nearby Carnuntum. Peak months offer guided tours and interactive field programs; winter weather limits access to outdoor archaeological sites and ecological observation programs.
Scenic drives, countryside tours, route-based travel
Picturesque routes through sun-drenched vineyards and historic villages offer a high-quality rural touring experience. Peak months (May-Sep) feature lush landscapes and autumn harvest colors; winter months offer poor visibility and less appealing scenery.
Amusement parks, family entertainment venues
Familypark Neusiedlersee is Austria's premier theme park, offering high-quality, authentic family entertainment in a curated forest setting. Peak summer (Jun-Aug) provides ideal weather for outdoor rides, while winter months see the park closed or restricted to limited seasonal events.
Attractions (61 total)
Hiking & Cycling Routes
Alpannonia Long Distance Trail
Bad Tatzmannsdorf
120km moderate 6-day trek from the Semmering mountain pass to the Hungarian town of Köszeg with 3,000m elevation gain. It traverses the wooded hills of the Bernstein Land and the Rosalia mountains.
Visit website →Neusiedler See Cycle Path (B10)
Neusiedl am See
125km easy, flat loop encircling Lake Neusiedl, typically completed in 1-2 days with 210m elevation gain. The route crosses into Hungary. Bike rental: Radwerkstatt (radwerkstatt.at) or Bucsis (bucsis.at).
Visit website →Rosalia Hiking Trail
Forchtenstein
80km moderate multi-day hike across the Rosalia Mountains, offering views of Forchtenstein Castle and the Wechsel mountain range. Elevation gain is approximately 1,800m.
Visit website →Bernstein Trail (Amber Trail) - East Route
Petronell-Carnuntum
300km moderate long-distance trail following the ancient Roman trade route. The Burgenland section covers historical sites from the Danube to the wine regions. Elevation varies by stage.
Visit website →Kirschblütenradweg (B12)
Purbach am Neusiedler See
43km moderate day route with 300m elevation gain, taking 3-4 hours. The path winds through thousands of cherry trees and vineyards on the slopes of the Leitha Mountains. Bike rental: Radverleih Purbach (purbach.at).
Visit website →Lackenradweg (B20)
Illmitz
48km very easy loop through the Seewinkel National Park, taking approximately 3 hours with 30m elevation gain. Ideal for birdwatching near salt ponds. Bike rental: Radverleih Koppi (radverleih-koppi.at).
Visit website →Natural Hot Spring / Thermal Bath / Historic Bathhouse
AVITA Therme
Bad Tatzmannsdorf
Thermal water ranging from 30-36°C with a rich calcium-magnesium-hydrogen-carbonate mineral profile. Located in a historic spa town active since the 17th century, the facility features a unique natural swimming pond, 15 thermal pools, and a major sauna garden.
Visit website →St. Martins Therme
Frauenkirchen
35°C thermal water sourced from 860 meters deep, high in sodium and bicarbonate. This modern thermal complex is situated in the Seewinkel National Park and features Pannonian architecture, multiple indoor and outdoor mineral pools, and extensive relaxation areas overlooking natural salt lakes.
Visit website →Allegria Familientherme Stegersbach
Stegersbach
Large public thermal complex utilizing water from two local springs at temperatures between 28°C and 35°C. Features 14 different pools including cascading outdoor thermal basins and sulfur-rich mineral water areas, designed as a standalone destination for thermal wellness.
Visit website →Road Trips & Scenic Drives
Burgenland Wine Road (Burgenländische Weinstraße)
Circular
Approx. 150km paved route (1-2 days) divided into Northern, Central, and Southern sections. It winds through rolling vineyards and historic wine-growing villages like Rust, Purbach, and Gumpoldskirchen, featuring numerous 'Heuriger' (wine taverns) and the characteristic Pannonian architecture.
Visit website →The Castle Road (Die Schlösserstraße)
Eisenstadt
A 1,001km paved international touring route (Burgenland section approx. 120km), connecting central Europe's most impressive fortifications. Key highlights in Burgenland include the baroque Esterházy Palace in Eisenstadt, the hilltop Forchtenstein Castle, and the medieval Burg Güssing.
Visit website →Neusiedler See Scenic Loop
Circular
120km paved circular route (3-5 hours) circling Central Europe's only steppe lake. The drive passes through the Seewinkel National Park, the reed-fringed shores of Mörbisch, the historic town of Sopron in Hungary, and the iconic windmills of Podersdorf am See.
Visit website →Art Gallery / Fine Art Museum
Burg Forchtenstein
Forchtenstein
A historic fortress housing one of Europe's largest private art collections, including a massive portrait gallery and a rare cabinet of curiosities.
Visit website →Esterházy Palace
Eisenstadt
A magnificent Baroque palace showcasing the opulent lifestyles and extensive art collections of the Esterházy princes.
Visit website →Landesgalerie Burgenland
Eisenstadt
A contemporary art space featuring rotating exhibitions of modern painting, sculpture, and photography from the Pannonian region.
Visit website →Theme Park / Amusement Park
Familypark
St. Margarethen im Burgenland
Austria's largest amusement park features four themed lands with diverse roller coasters, water rides, and climbing areas set in a large park landscape.
Visit website →Märchenwald Mühlgraben
Mühlgraben
A woodland theme park located in southern Burgenland featuring classic fairytale dioramas, a petting zoo, and various forest-themed adventure playgrounds.
Visit website →Adventure Park / Outdoor Activity Center
Familypark Neusiedlersee
St. Margarethen im Burgenland
Austria's largest amusement park offering a variety of themed adventure worlds, roller coasters, and climbing areas set in a forested landscape.
Visit website →Kletterpark Tatzmannsdorf
Bad Tatzmannsdorf
A high-ropes adventure park located in a beautiful woodland setting, featuring multiple courses with zip lines and aerial obstacles.
Visit website →Surf- und Segelschule Nordstrand
Podersdorf am See
A premier outdoor watersports center on the shallow waters of Lake Neusiedl, specializing in windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing lessons.
Visit website →PODO Play
Podersdorf am See
An extensive lakeside activity center featuring innovative wooden climbing structures, giant slides, and sand play areas on the shores of Lake Neusiedl.
Visit website →Sonnenland Draisinentour
Oberpullendorf
A unique 40-kilometer outdoor adventure where visitors pedal rail-trolleys through the scenic vineyards and rolling hills of central Burgenland.
Visit website →Farm Park / Petting Zoo / Rural Experience
Familypark Neusiedlersee (Filippo's Farm)
St. Margarethen im Burgenland
Austria's largest theme park features a massive 'Farm' zone with animal petting areas, tractor rides, and rural-themed carousels.
Visit website →Dorfmuseum Mönchhof
Mönchhof
An immersive open-air museum that recreates a traditional Pannonian village, offering a hands-on look at historic rural life, crafts, and farming.
Visit website →Steppentierpark Pamhagen
Pamhagen
A natural wildlife park showcasing over 50 species including domestic Pannonian breeds like Hungarian Grey Cattle and Mangalica pigs in an open steppe landscape.
Visit website →Historic Town / Village / Cultural Area
Forchtenstein Castle
Forchtenstein
A powerful medieval fortress housing the Esterházy family's treasury, armory, and an impressive collection of military equipment.
Visit website →Rust Old Town
Rust
A UNESCO World Heritage town famous for its well-preserved Pannonian architecture and the storks that nest on its historic chimneys.
Visit website →Haydn House
Eisenstadt
The former residence of composer Joseph Haydn, preserved as a museum showcasing his life, work, and the cultural history of the 18th century.
Visit website →Mönchhof Village Museum
Mönchhof
An extensive open-air museum that recreates a traditional Pannonian village, complete with a school, shops, and workshops from the late 19th century.
Visit website →Castle / Palace / Historic Site
Historic Center of Rust
Rust
A picturesque UNESCO-listed town famous for its historic burgher houses, wine-making traditions, and the storks that nest on its chimneys.
Visit website →Roman Quarry St. Margarethen
Sankt Margarethen im Burgenland
One of the oldest and largest limestone quarries in Europe, now a UNESCO site that doubles as a spectacular outdoor venue for opera.
Visit website →Schloss Esterházy
Eisenstadt
A grand Baroque palace that was the ancestral seat of the powerful Esterházy family and a former workplace of composer Joseph Haydn.
Visit website →Schloss Halbturn
Halbturn
The most important Baroque building in northern Burgenland, serving as a former hunting lodge for the Habsburgs with lovely palace gardens.
Visit website →Burg Güssing
Güssing
Perched atop an extinct volcanic cone, this oldest castle in Burgenland offers panoramic views and a historical museum for all ages.
Visit website →Burg Lockenhaus
Lockenhaus
A well-preserved knight's castle famous for its connection to the Knights Templar and hosting immersive medieval-themed family events.
Visit website →Burg Schlaining
Stadchlaining
A historic castle hosting the Austrian Study Centre for Peace and Conflict Resolution, featuring modern exhibits on world peace and history.
Visit website →Natural Feature / Scenic Site
Lake Neusiedl (Neusiedler See)
Podersdorf am See
Central Europe's largest endorheic lake, famous for its iconic red-and-white lighthouse, sailing, and shallow swimming waters.
Visit website →Nationalpark Neusiedler See-Seewinkel
Illmitz
A UNESCO World Heritage site offering birdwatching, cycling paths, and unique saline steppes on the edge of the Pannonian Plain.
Visit website →Geschriebenstein Nature Park
Rechnitz
The highest point in Burgenland featuring a stone observation tower that sits directly on the border between Austria and Hungary.
Visit website →Lange Lacke
Apetlon
The largest of the region's forty-five salt lakes, serving as a critical habitat for migratory birds within a unique steppe landscape.
Römersteinbruch St. Margarethen
St. Margarethen im Burgenland
One of Europe's oldest and largest quarries, offering a dramatic rocky landscape and impressive geological formations open for guided tours.
Visit website →Science Museum / Natural History Museum / Discovery Centre
National Park Center Illmitz
Illmitz
An interactive discovery center featuring multimedia exhibitions on the unique saline lakes and biodiversity of the UNESCO-listed National Park.
Visit website →Landesmuseum Burgenland
Eisenstadt
The state's primary museum featuring a significant natural history wing that explores the Pannonian flora, fauna, and geology of the region.
Visit website →National Park / Nature Reserve
Nationalpark Neusiedler See - Seewinkel
Illmitz
A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring vast saline lakes and unique birdlife, offering excellent family cycling paths and nature observation points.
Visit website →Naturpark Geschriebenstein-Irottkö
Rechnitz
The highest point in Burgenland, featuring an iconic stone observation tower on the Hungarian border and numerous educational woodland trails.
Visit website →Naturpark Raab-Őrség-Goričko
Mogersdorf
A peaceful trilateral park centered around the Raab river, popular for family-friendly canoeing and exploring rolling meadow landscapes.
Visit website →Naturpark Neusiedler See-Leithagebirge
Purbach am Neusiedler See
A scenic transition zone where forested hills meet expansive vineyards, providing easy hiking trails with panoramic views of Lake Neusiedl.
Visit website →Botanical Garden / Formal Gardens
Schlosspark Eisenstadt
Eisenstadt
One of Europe's most important 19th-century landscape gardens, featuring exotic trees, serene ponds, and the neoclassical Leopoldine Temple.
Visit website →Schloss Halbturn Park
Halbturn
A magnificent Baroque palace garden and landscape park that offers a peaceful retreat with historical charm and seasonal floral displays.
Visit website →Water Park / Splash Park / Aquatic Centre
Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg
Lutzmannsburg
Europe's leading thermal spa for babies and children, featuring massive indoor and outdoor water slides and specialized adventure pools.
Visit website →St. Martins Therme & Lodge
Frauenkirchen
A luxury thermal oasis located at the edge of the Seewinkel National Park, offering expansive adventure pools and nature-themed aquatic wellness.
Visit website →Beach / Coastal Recreation Area
Strandbad Podersdorf am See
Podersdorf am See
The region's most famous beach destination featuring an iconic red-and-white lighthouse and extensive facilities for windsurfing and families.
Visit website →Seebad Illmitz
Illmitz
A natural beach area in the heart of the Seewinkel National Park, offering a peaceful retreat focused on nature and birdwatching.
Visit website →Seebad Mörbisch am See
Mörbisch am See
A family-friendly bathing area known for its unique location next to the famous floating opera stage and solar-heated pools.
Visit website →Seebad Neusiedl am See
Neusiedl am See
A vibrant recreation hub at the northern tip of the lake offering large sunbathing lawns and a modern beach club atmosphere.
Visit website →Seebad Rust
Rust
A comprehensive lakeside resort with adventure pools, boat rentals, and direct lake access situated in the historic town of storks.
Visit website →Zoo / Wildlife Park / Safari Park
Reptilienzoo Forchtenstein
Forchtenstein
A specialized zoo featuring a diverse collection of reptiles and amphibians including crocodiles, venomous snakes, and giant tortoises.
Visit website →Landmark / Monument / Iconic Urban Attraction
St. Margarethen Roman Quarry
St. Margarethen im Burgenland
One of Europe's largest and oldest stone quarries, now serving as a dramatic open-air venue for world-class opera performances.
Visit website →Historic Town of Rust
Rust
Famous for its charming architecture and the storks that nest on its chimneys, this historic town offers a unique lakeside atmosphere.
Visit website →Major International Festival / Cultural Event
Mörbisch Lake Festival (Seefestspiele Mörbisch)
Mörbisch am See
July - August, annual 2-month festival, world's largest operetta event attracting ~150,000 visitors, features a spectacular 3,600-square-meter floating stage on Lake Neusiedl, lavish sets, and fireworks; highly suitable for families due to the visual spectacle.
Visit website →Opera in the Quarry (Oper im Steinbruch St. Margarethen)
St. Margarethen im Burgenland
July - August, annual summer opera series held in a UNESCO-listed 2,000-year-old Roman quarry, attracts ~100,000 international visitors with monumental stage designs and natural acoustics; families enjoy the dramatic setting and historical atmosphere.
Visit website →