EUROPEAN METROPOLIS BY AIRPLANE - DISCOVER THE WORLD FROM VILLACH
![View from the airplane View from the airplane](/fileadmin/_processed_/4/d/csm_flugzeug-aussicht-c-stefanie-kaiser_9cca315b7d.jpg)
Located in the heart of Europe, Villach is an ideal starting point to explore the most exciting metropolises of Europe. Thanks to its proximity to several international airports, numerous destinations are within reach in just a few hours. In this blog post, readers can learn more about the key airports around Villach and get inspiration for easy weekend trips to popular European cities.
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS - GATES TO THE WORLD
Within a four-hour drive from Villach, several airports can be reached, offering a wide range of international destinations – from historic cities and beautiful beaches to exotic locations.
International airports and their distance from Villach:
- Klagenfurt Airport (approx. 44 km | approx. 30 minutes by car)
- Ljubljana Airport (approx. 80 km | approx. 1 hour by car)
- Trieste Airport (approx. 160 km | approx. 1 hour 45 minutes by car)
- Graz Airport (approx. 170 km | approx. 1 hour 45 minutes by car)
- Salzburg Airport (approx. 190 km | 2 hours 15 minutes by car)
- Treviso Airport (approx. 240 km | approx. 2 hours 30 minutes by car)
- Venezia Airport (Marco Polo Airport) (approx. 240 km | approx. 2 hours 30 minutes by car)
- Munich Airport (approx. 350 km | approx. 4 hours by car)
- Vienna Airport (approx. 370 km | approx. 4 hours by car)
Smaller airports such as Klagenfurt or Trieste are perfect for reaching European short-haul destinations. Larger airports, such as in Graz, Venice, Vienna, or Munich, also offer many long-haul flights to distant destinations. New York City, for example, can be reached in about 13–15 hours with connecting flights, while Tokyo is accessible within 15–18 hours, depending on layovers and flight routes. With this variety of nearby airports, travel enthusiasts have all the options at their fingertips.
![Boarding at the airport Airplane on the tarmac](/fileadmin/_processed_/c/5/csm_flughafen-boarding-c-stefanie-kaiser_38dd8e1457.jpg)
IDEAS FOR SPONTANEOUS CITY TRIPS
The airports in Klagenfurt, Ljubljana, Trieste, and Graz — all within less than a two-hour drive from Villach — are perfect for spontaneous city trips. Below, some popular European destinations are presented that can be reached quickly and easily with a short direct flight from these airports, making them ideal for a long weekend getaway.
Please note that the listed destinations and flight times are based on information from January 2025 and may change depending on flight schedules and seasons. Therefore, it is recommended to check the airports' websites or flight comparison platforms for the most up-to-date information.
1.London, United Kingdom
- Airport:Klagenfurt, Ljubljana, Trieste
- Flight time: approx. 2–2 hours 30 minutes
- Travel tip: London offers an endless cultural offering with highlights like the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, the West End, and much more – perfect for culture lovers!
2. Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Airport:Ljubljana
- Flight time: approx. 2 hours
- Travel tip: Perfect for a weekend of canal cruises, museum visits, and a stroll through the famous Jordaan district, with its inviting boutiques and unique pubs.
3. Paris, France
- Airport:Ljubljana, Trieste
- Flight time: approx. 2 hours
- Travel tip: Paris, the city of love, delights with iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the charming streets of Montmartre.
4. Athens, Greece
- Airport:Ljubljana
- Flight time: approx. 2 hours
- Travel tip: Athens combines ancient history with vibrant city life. The Acropolis and Parthenon are must-sees.
5. Brussels, Belgium
- Airport:Ljubljana, Trieste
- Flight time: approx. 1 hour 45 minutes
Travel tip: An ideal city for culture and culinary delights – highlights include the Atomium, the Grand Place, and famous Belgian chocolates.
6. Rome, Italy
- Airport:Trieste
- Flight time: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
- Travel tip: In the "Eternal City," visitors can explore the Colosseum, Vatican City, and plenty of "Dolce Vita."
7. Helsinki, Finland
- Airport:Ljubljana
- Flight time: approx. 2 hours 45 minutes
- Travel tip: The capital of Finland blends modern design with stunning nature and is an ideal starting point for a Nordic adventure.
8. Istanbul, Turkey
- Airport:Ljubljana
- Flight time: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes
- Travel tip: Istanbul uniquely connects Europe and Asia, with historic landmarks like the Hagia Sophia, the Blue Mosque, and the Grand Bazaar.
9. Prague, Czech Republic
- Airport:Trieste
- Flight time: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
- Travel tip: Prague is a beautiful city full of history and architecture – the Prague Castle, Charles Bridge, and Old Town offer much to explore.
10. Dublin, Ireland
- Airport:Trieste
- Flight time: approx. 2 hours 45 minutes
- Travel tip: Dublin’s vibrant pub culture, the impressive Trinity College Library, and the scenic beauty of the nearby Wicklow Mountains make it a memorable short trip destination.
11. Zurich, Switzerland
- Airport:Ljubljana, Graz
- Flight time: approx. 1 hour 15 minutes
- Travel tip: The charming Old Town, the view from Uetliberg, and the opportunity to relax by Lake Zurich make Zurich a special destination.
12. Palma de Mallorca, Spain
- Airport:Klagenfurt, Graz
- Flight time: approx. 2 hours 15 minutes
- Travel tip: A perfect mix of beach, culture, and nightlife in Palma de Mallorca, with highlights like the impressive La Seu Cathedral, the picturesque Old Town, and the famous Ballermann area.
13. Hamburg, Germany
- Airport:Klagenfurt, Graz
- Flight time: approx. 1 hour 45 minutes
- Travel tip: The Elbphilharmonie, the Speicherstadt, and the maritime atmosphere of the Hanseatic city shape Hamburg's unique vibe.
14. Warsaw, Poland
- Airport:Ljubljana
- Flight time: approx. 1 hours 30 minutes
- Travel tip: Warsaw’s Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, impresses with its colorful facades and historic atmosphere.
15. Skopje, North Macedonia
- Airport:Ljubljana
- Flight time: approx. 1 hours 30 minutes
- Travel tip: The blend of ancient and modern architecture, the Kale Fortress, and the view from Mount Vodno make Skopje a fascinating destination.
![Hanseatic City of Hamburg Old Warehouse District in Hamburg](/fileadmin/_processed_/d/7/csm_hamburg-c-stefanie-kaiser_caf6d26146.jpg)
From Villach, some of Europe's most enchanting cities are easily accessible. Whether it's a long weekend or an extended stay, planning the trip is simple and rewarding. So pack your bags, grab a travel companion, and explore the diverse cultures and stunning landmarks waiting just a short trip from your doorstep!