Attractions
Benedictus-Platz 1, 8630 Mariazell, Austria
Basilika Mariazell
With Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI, two church leaders have already visited this place.
For more than 600 years, pilgrims have been coming to this site. The history of Mariazell traces back to a monk who carried a self-carved statue of the Virgin Mary. His intended path was blocked, and he prayed before the Madonna figure. His request was granted, and the path was cleared. This tradition has made Mariazell a globally significant pilgrimage site.
Even today, many people pilgrimage to Mariazell, although not always for religious reasons. On Catholic holidays, the peaceful pilgrimage site is particularly well-visited. During the high season, Masses and devotions take place every hour.
The current structure is based on several architectural styles added over time: initially Romanesque, then Gothic, and later extended in the Baroque style. The building houses several chapels. Those who want to learn more about the basilica and its treasures, and still have some time, can take a guided tour of the church's treasury. If you wish to light a candle, you can do so in the candle grotto at the back of the church.
Around the basilica, there are numerous souvenir shops. The main items on offer are spiritual travel mementos, pilgrimage items, and souvenirs for grandchildren. It's important to pay attention to the quality of the items, as there is a lot of cheap merchandise. A little further away, there are other shops selling high-quality and locally made products.
Kalvarienberg 1, Mariazell, Austria
Kalvarienberg
Next to the mighty Basilica of Mariazell, there is another pilgrimage site within the pilgrimage site: The Calvary Hill is only a few meters away. The path leads past the mechanical nativity scene, which was closed during my visits (August 2020 and September 2021). The journey continues along the Way of the Cross through a short forest until reaching the destination with the three crosses and a magnificent view.
The atmosphere is particularly mystical at sunrise. Therefore, my tip for a visit: The towers of the Basilica of Mariazell seem to disappear into the morning mist (see image above). The entire mountain landscape then appears very mysterious. On the way back to the town center, you can combine the visit with a stop at the Chapel of the Holy Spring.
Wiener Straße 32, Mariazell, Austria
Mariazeller Bürgeralpe
The Bürgeralpe is a scenic mountain at an altitude of 1,267 meters and offers a panoramic view of Styria and Lower Austria.
A cable car, the Mariazeller Schwebebahnen, takes you directly from the town to the Bürgeralpe. The round-trip ticket costs a proud 28 euros. If you hike up but want to return by cable car, the cost is only 21 euros (as of 2024). With a valid SteiermarkCard or NiederösterreichCard, the cable car ride is free.
On the Bürgeralpe, you'll find the easy hiking trail "Drei Seen Blick". During the 45-minute walk, you'll have views of the Hubertussee, Erlaufsee, and Kristallsee. The Kristallsee is located directly on the Bürgeralpe.
Both in summer and winter, the Mariazeller Bürgeralpe is a popular destination, offering a wide range of recreational activities on the mountain. There's the large adventure park Holzknechtland and Biberwasser. In the two lakes on the Bürgeralpe, you can try water skiing and stand-up paddling. A relatively new addition is the forest roller coaster Flylinas Hexenflug, providing a unique flying experience. For detailed information, visit the official website of the Bürgeralpe ↗.
Wr. Str. 9, 8630 Mariazell, Austria
Lebkuchen
E
Another classic excursion in Mariazell is closely linked to the famous Mariazeller Honey Gingerbread, which has been contributing to the region's good reputation for over 300 years, far beyond the basilica.
In the Pirker empire, there's the Pastry Shop at the Main Square, located directly opposite the basilica. With its unmistakable terrace, it is clearly the leader in the business of the best cakes – and, of course, gingerbread.
Alternatively, you can turn the corner and pick up the gingerbread as a souvenir at the erLEBZELTEREI Pirkerab. This gingerbread has been produced by the bakery for 170 years. You can immediately recognize it by the typical aroma that greets you as soon as you step into the sacred halls.
This is also because, in addition to admiring the beautiful gingerbread creations, you can watch the bakers at work in the open bakery. And of course, there’s a tasting involved! And it doesn't always have to be the classic gingerbread heart...
Mariazell, Austria
The Mariazellerbahn: A Modern Train Experience with a Nostalgic Touch
Before reaching Mariazell, there are many stations along the way that offer excellent opportunities for day trips, each with its own unique attractions. Whether you're looking for a leisurely day of strolling, a scenic mountain adventure, or a lively bike ride, there are plenty of options to choose from.
I’ve ridden the Mariazellerbahn before and was already familiar with the "Heaven's Staircase" from previous trips to Mariazell and as the "Hiker's Train" for exploring the Ötschergräben. However, it wasn’t until my trip to Gemeindealpethat I truly experienced—quite literally—that one can feel a sense of freedom not only on the "Heaven's Staircase" but especially in the "Alternative Trains."
The motto is not only true for the Heaven’s Staircase: "Close to the heavens." And yes, when riding in the Panorama or Observation cars, you truly feel as if you're right next to the sky.