This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Bad Ischl.
Bad Ischl is an Austrian spa town located in the southern part of the state Upper Austria. If you're not traveling with your car, the city can be easily reached by train. As expected, most of the tourism in Bad Ischl is centered on health and relaxation with its spa resorts, but that is not to say the city doesn't have a few fascinating monuments of its own.
The town is known for hosting many notable guests throughout the history; perhaps the best way to relive and experience Bad Ischl's history is by visiting different villas and mansions that are opened for the public. The most famous is without a doubt the Kaiservilla (The Imperial Villa), the summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I and Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi). The other two worth visiting are Lehárvilla, the residence of composer Franz Lehár, and PKS-Villa Rothstein, which houses interesting collection of scientific models and prototypes.
Other than that there is also a historic Kongresshaus and a few interesting museums to check out. One is a Photo Museum, winner of the Austrian Quality Seal award, the other is Museum of Vehicles, Technology, and Aviation and there is of course the city museum, which is actually a building where the engagement between Franz Joseph and Sisi took place.
If you want to stretch your legs, you can take a hike to the Siriuskogl, a lovely hill with the Franz-Joseph Tower, or take a gondola lift and explore the Katrin alpine pasture. But since the town is surrounded by pure nature and fascinating mountain peaks, there is always a chance for adventure.
Although the town of Bad Ischl is quite small, there are decent bus connections organized throughout it, thus moving around is pleasant and easy. The town offers distinct types of accommodation, including some Bad Ischl hostel options, so finding a place to sleep should not be a problem either.
Written by local enthusiast for Bad Ischl hostels
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