Linz, the third largest city of Austria and capital of the state of Upper Austria, is located in the north centre of Austria, approximately 30 km south of the Czech border, on both sides of the river Danube, the longest river of the European Union and the longest river in Europe after the Volga. The population of the city itself is 189,343 as of 2007 census, and 271,000 in the Greater Linz conurbation. Linz has a reputation being an industrial city.

Linz, Austrian city, has changed dramatically in recent decades the result of which is a modern urban centre with a flourishing economy, a city where the quality of life is exceptional. Since the city on the Danube will be serving as European Capital of Culture and showing off what makes this such a special place, in 2009, a trip to Linz will be especially rewarding.  

The city is now home to a vibrant music and arts scene that is well-funded by the city and the state of Upper Austria. Between the Lentos Art Museum and the "Brucknerhaus", is the "Donaulände", which is also referred to as "Kulturmeile" . This is a park alongside the river, which is used mainly by young people to relax and meet in summer. It is also used for the Ars Electronica Festival and the "Linz Fest".  

The oldest Austrian church is the Sankt/Saint Martins church which was built during early medieval Carolingian times. Other sights include St. Mary's Cathedral, Roman Catholic, Pöstlingberg-Kirche, Brucknerhaus, Gugl Stadium, and the Linzer Landschaftliche Theater.