Discover Gmunden: Lake, Ceramics and Culture

Gmunden lies at the northern end of Lake Traunsee, but the town’s appeal extends beyond the view of the water. Ceramics shape its history and present; there is also a varied cultural programme and Grünberg above the town. You can therefore choose different focal points: local history, crafts, lake experiences or outdoor activities.

Experience local history and art

Seeschloss Ort is one of the oldest buildings in the Salzkammergut. K-Hof, Kammerhof Museum Gmunden, offers a broad overview across time: its five sections present the history of the town and the Lake Traunsee region chronologically, from geological beginnings to the 21st century. The Capuchin Church houses works of art from the 17th century, including the statue “Christ in Prison”. A contemporary accent is provided by the permanent installation “La Communication”, which has been located in the centre of Gmunden’s Rathausplatz since summer 2025.

Ceramics between tradition and the present

In the Middle Ages, a ceramics scene took root in Gmunden through the salt trade. Gmundner Keramik was founded in 1492. The flaming decoration technique is still part of the work of the Gmundner Keramik Manufaktur; as part of Austria’s intangible cultural heritage, it also has particular cultural significance. The ceramics trail leads through Gmunden and draws attention to ceramic treasures, large and small, in public spaces. It offers a distinctive way to explore the craft, taking you through the town.

Contemporary work is also part of the ceramics scene: the Austrian Pottery Market showcases a wide range of pieces from various workshops. It takes place every year on the last weekend in August. If you would like to include the market in your travel plans, check the dates for your chosen year.

Customs and cultural programme

Liebstatt Sunday is celebrated in Gmunden on the fourth Sunday of Lent; the tradition has been observed there since 1641. The Salzkammergut Festwochen Gmunden offers a different cultural focus: its cross-disciplinary programme includes music projects, innovative formats, theatre and drama. The selection thus ranges from a custom tied to the fourth Sunday of Lent to a variety of stage and music events.

Lake Traunsee and Grünberg: time on the water or outdoor activity on the mountain

Take in the mountain panorama on Lake Traunsee aboard a historic paddle steamer dating from 1871. If you are planning a trip for a particular day, it is worth checking the timetable. Grünberg, above Gmunden, has 20 kilometres of well-maintained hiking trails as well as signposted cycling routes. The trail length is one guide when planning a hike; cyclists can follow the signposted routes. This gives you different ways to explore actively.

Find the right holiday apartment for your travel plans

Before you start looking, consider what you would like to focus on during your stay: local history and ceramics, an excursion on Lake Traunsee, or time for hiking and cycling on Grünberg. These priorities can help guide your choice of where to stay. When choosing a holiday apartment in Gmunden, consider the specific location of each listing and how well it suits your own travel plans.

Discover more destinations: Neukirchen, Obertraun, Traunkirchen, Sankt Wolfgang Im Salzkammergut, Rußbach, Scharnstein, Pinsdorf, Vorchdorf, Moosham, Sankt Konrad, Rindbach, Ohlsdorf, Roitham, Altmünster am Traunsee, Bad Ischl, Ebensee, Gmunden, Hallstatt, Bad Goisern Am Hallstättersee, Gosau, Grünau Im Almtal, Gschwandt, Kogl, Laakirchen and Kirchham Bei Vorchdorf.

Go to the main travel overview: Upper Austria.