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• 34 Best Places To Visit In Austria In 2024 That Look Straight Out Of A Picture Book

23 Mar 2023

Tucked in between the soaring Alps, Austria is an enchanting country with dream-like landscapes, picture-perfect meadows and grasslands, stunning baroque architecture and music flowing through its veins.

From pretty villages to magnificent cities, from the best operas to the most lavish desserts Austria has the perfect ingredients to intoxicate your senses. Let us guide you through the picturesque landscapes and stunning cities to find out the best places to visit in Austria , including the usual suspects like Vienna and Salzburg and some hidden unexplored Austria tourist places like Bregenz and Wachau. Be sure that you will have a wonderful time relishing the culture and exploring the Alpine landscapes. Make sure you include all these places to your itinerary and indulge in the experiences they offer for a vacation you will remember forever. 

34 Top Places To Visit In Austria In 2024

And now for an unforgettable experience on your next vacation, make sure you include some of these places to visit in Austria in your itinerary, if not all. And don’t worry. You’ll find plenty of accommodation as well as transport options near all these charming Austria tourist places to make your vacation an enjoyable one!

• Vienna – Walk Down The Glorious Past
• Salzburg – A Date With Mozart
• Innsbruck – The Picture-Postcard Town
• Salzkammergut – Relax And Rejuvenate
• Graz – Immerse In History, Culture, And Food
• Worthersee – A Summer To Remember
• Bad Gastein – A Refreshing Treat For Body And Soul
• Bregenz – Tranquil Days By The Lake
• Wachau – Best Wines And A Dose Of History
• Zell Am See – Pristine Alpine Wonders
• Hoher Dachstein – The Three-State Mountain
• Krimml Waterfalls – Austria’s Famous Paradise
• Vorarlberg – Land Of Mountains
• Tyrol – Heaven In The Alps
• Carinthia – Lakes And Forests
• Styria – Witness The Wildlife
• Burgenland – Taste The Fine Wines
• Hallstatt – Scenic Lake Views
• Mostviertel – Old World Charm
• Alpbach – Skiing And Sledding
• Eisenstadt – Postcard Perfect Sceneries
• Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Best Road Trip Ever
• Lake Constance – Third Largest Lake In Europe
• National Park Donau Auen – Into The Wild
• National Park Gesause – A Rock Climber’s Paradise
• National Park Hohe Tauern – The Land Of Austria’s Superlatives
• Seewinkel National Park – For Birdwatching
• St Anton am Arlberg – Best Ski Village
• Vienna Woods – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
• Krems – Explore Nature And History
• Linz – Creative Capital
• Schonbrunn Palace – Heritage Of Austria
• Vienna State Opera – Rendezvous With The Culture
• Eisriesenwelt Cave – A Unique Attraction

1. Vienna – Walk Down The Glorious Past

The city of grand palaces and museums, the home of Opera and Beethoven, Vienna is a city steeped in culture and grandeur. A walk down the city’s beautiful Ringstrasse Boulevard, lined with royal buildings like the Hofburg Imperial Palace and many beautiful parks, is a great way to let the magic of Vienna grow on you. Vienna is one of the best cities in Austria . You can also enjoy lovely coffee at the cafes in Vienna for a chilled-out evening.

The opulent Schonbrunn & Belvedere Palaces and the ornate St Stephen’s Cathedral are architectural marvels and a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts. Don’t forget to sip the famous Viennese coffee at one of many cozy coffee houses and gaze in wonder at the world-famous Vienna Opera House before you bid adieu to one of the best places to visit in Vienna, Austria .

Ideal for: History, Architecture, Culture Places To Visit in Vienna : Hofburg Imperial Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Schönbrunn Palace Places To Stay  : Hotel Ambassador, Vienna Marriott Hotel Best Restaurants : Ariston Hellenic Restaurant, Restaurant Rote Bar Best Time To Visit: April-May, September-October How To Reach: You can arrive in Vienna via flights from New Delhi and other major international cities.

Must Read: The 10 Most Beautiful Lakes In Austria

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2. Salzburg – A Date With Mozart

One of the must-see places in Austria is Salzburg that brings to mind a charming city surrounded by rolling green meadows, majestic historical buildings and Mozart. The birthplace of the genius composer and the place where the iconic movie Sound of music was shot, Salzburg tops the list of top places to visit in Austria .

The old town Aldsten with its stunning baroque buildings is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while the imposing Hohensalzburg fortress boasts of being Europe’s last preserved castle. The grand extravaganza of culture, music and the arts, the Salzburger Festspiele during summers is an experience to remember. So if you are seeking best places to visit in Austria in summer, add Salzburg to your itinerary.

Ideal for: Architecture, Nature, Photography, Music Places To Visit: Hellbrunn Palace, Nonnberg Abbey, Salzburg Cathedral, Salzburg Castles Places To Stay : Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt, Sheraton Grand Salzburg, and Salzburg villas Best Restaurants : Indian Restaurant Taj Mahal, Das Restaurant Wasserfall Best Time To Visit: September-October How To Reach: There are number of direct trains between Salzburg and Vienna making rail journey one of the best ways to reach.

3. Innsbruck – The Picture-Postcard Town

The idyllic alpine town surrounded by high mountains has plenty of options that make your stay worthwhile. You could enjoy a leisurely walk through the old town and marvel at the glittering Goldenes Dachl adorned with more than 2500 shiny tiles or get a peek into the Tyrolean Folk Art Museum, one of the finest museum for regional heritage in Europe.

A destination for all seasons and one of the most magical places to visit in Austria in winter , Innsbruck has world renowned ski resorts which can be enjoyed in the winter months. Adventure enthusiasts can go hiking up the gorgeous meadows, bungee jumping at Europa Bridge, take the thrilling funicular ride up the Nordkette mountain range, and even check out the Innsbruck nightlife .

Ideal for: Adventure, Architecture, Culture Places To Visit in Innsbruck : Goldenes Dachl, Hofburg, Triumphal Arch Places To Stay : Hotel Grauer Bär, Hotel Central Best Restaurants : Himal Nepali Kitchen Restaurant, Restaurant Lichtblick Best Time To Visit: December-April How To Reach: The best way to reach Innsbruck from Vienna is via train that takes about 4-5 hours.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Churches In Austria

4. Salzkammergut – Relax And Rejuvenate

This picturesque resort area near Salzburg offers the quintessential Austrian experience, with shimmering blue lakes (76 lakes in all!), stunning alpine ranges, charming villages, and luxurious spa towns. Situated by the Lake Hallstatt and included on UNESCO’s world heritage sites list is the fairy tale village Hallstatt which happens to be amongst the most beautiful places to visit in Austria .

Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places to go in Austria , Halstatt’s stunning pastel-colored houses, underground salt lake Salzwelten and Ice Cave on Dachstein Mountain will take your breath away. The spa town of Bad Ischl and the romantic St Wolfgang are other tourist favorites.

Ideal for: Nature, Culture, Spas, Adventure Places To Visit: Mirabell Palace, Fortress Hohenzsalzburg Places To Stay : Mühlradl Apartments, Hotel Gasthof Weißer Bär Best Restaurants : Restaurant Hubertuskeller, Ledererhaus Best Time To Visit: September-October How To Reach: There is a guided bus tour that will take you to the most interesting points in Salzkammergut.

5. Graz – Immerse In History, Culture, And Food

The second largest and cheapest city in Austria with six universities and one of Europe’s best preserved old town areas, Graz has so much to satiate your traveller soul. Throw in the numerous museums, impressive baroque & renaissance-style buildings and a unique forested hill in the centre of the city offering panoramic views and you have the recipe for a perfect vacation.

Literally too, because Graz will also entice you with its many culinary delights. Cooking enthusiasts can carry home some pumpkin seed oil to pep up their dishes back home. Counted amongst the most offbeat places to visit in Austria , Graz is a must-visit!

Ideal for: History, Food, Education Places To Visit: Eggenberg Palace, Kunsthaus, Altstadt von Graz Places To Stay : NH Graz City, Hotel Weitzer Graz Best Restaurants : Caylend Restaurant, Vina Best Time To Visit: April-September How To Reach: There are direct trains from Vienna to Graz. It takes about 2 hours to get here by train.

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6. Worthersee – A Summer To Remember

Canoeing, spelunking, pretty churches and the hometown of Porsche are reason enough to spend a few days at Austria’s favoured summer destination. The beautiful Worthersee Lake offers ample opportunities for swimming, boating and canoeing in the summer months.

You can head to the colourful Griffen Stalactite cave for some thrill and exploration. Admiring the 12th century ancient Cathedral of Gurk and a visit to Gmund the birthplace of Porsche complete your list of must-do experiences in one of the best places to go in Austria.

Ideal for: Adventure, Nature Places To Visit: Wörthersee Lake, Casino Velden Places To Stay : Seepark Hotel – Congress & Spa, Hotel Sandwirth Best Restaurants : Restaurant Maria Loretto, Seerestaurant Rosé Best Time To Visit: April, November-December How To Reach: The train journey from Vienna to Worthersee takes about 5 hours.

7. Bad Gastein – A Refreshing Treat For Body And Soul

Head to the spa town of Bad Gastein to take a dip in the healing hot spring waters and breathe in the pure mountain air. Perched on the High Tauern Mountain, this splendid hill town also attracts skiing enthusiasts during the winter, which makes it one of the best places to visit in Austria .

Famous for its Belle Epoque-style hotels and villas, Bad Gastein has some thrilling hiking trails around and ample outdoor opportunities like biking and hiking. The spectacular Gastein waterfall in the heart of the town is an impressive site. Open studios, creative workshops, jazz shows, culinary delights and a buzzing nightlife are more reasons to book your holiday right away!

Ideal for: Relaxation, History, Skiing Places To Visit: Molltaler Gletscher, Stubnerkogel Places To Stay : Johannesbad Hotel Palace, Johannesbad Hotel St. Georg Best Restaurants : Gasteiner Wirtshaus, Ginger n’Gin Best Time To Visit: December-March How To Reach: There are direct trains from Salzburg to Bad Gastein that run every three hours in a day.

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8. Bregenz – Tranquil Days By The Lake

Located on the Eastern edge of Lake Constance, Bregenz offers sweeping views of the Swiss and German Alps. it is one of the best places to visit in Austria . Stroll around the beautiful promenade by the lake or take a cable car up the Pfander Mountain for breathtaking vistas of Lake Constance.

The mountain top is also a great place to relish a lunch with spectacular views or meander along a hiking trail. Get bowled over by the opera and orchestras at the annual Bregenz festival(July-August) performed at the floating lakeside platform. The architecture, history and art legacy of the city can be admired in museums and beautiful buildings across the town.

Ideal for: Nature, Culture Places To Visit: Kunsthaus Bregenz, Pfänder Mountain Places To Stay : Hotel Weißes Kreuz, Hotel Schwärzler Best Restaurants : Wirtshaus am See, Gasthaus Kornmesser Best Time To Visit: July-August How To Reach: There are about 20 trains a day between Innsbruck and Bregenz. The train journey takes 2 hours and 37 minutes.

9. Wachau – Best Wines And A Dose Of History

Flanking the beautiful Danube River, this rich valley is one of the best South Austria tourist attractions. A UNESCO World Heritage site for its cultural significance and unmatched natural splendour, Wachau Valley is popular among wine connoisseurs for some of the best white wines in the world.

Studded with some magnificent monasteries (like the baroque Melk monastery) castles and fortresses Wachau Valley offers lots of history and architectural delights too, this spot deserves to be one on the list of the most famous places to visit in Austria.

Ideal for: Wines, Architecture, History Places To Visit: Aggstein Castle Places To Stay : Hotel Klinglhuber, Gartenhotel & Weingut Pfeffel Dürnstein Best Restaurants : Hotel Restaurant Donauwirt, Restaurant Heinzle Best Time To Visit: March-June How To Reach: Take a train from Vienna to Melk and then a bus from here to Wachau.

Suggested Read: 8 Magical Castles In Austria

10. Zell Am See – Pristine Alpine Wonders

International-level ski slopes, the pristine blue waters of Zell Am See Lake and the picturesque Salzburg mountains make Zell Am See one of the most beautiful places in Austria for natural beauty and relaxation. Add this place to your itinerary if you are visiting Austria in March .

Cycling along the dreamy lake or swimming in the impossibly blue water of the lake are some of the most invigorating experiences in this enchanting alpine town. You can soak in the scenic beauty while sipping coffee at one of the many cafes in the city centre or walk the elevated walkway at St Hippolyte’s Church for some of the best views.

Ideal for: Nature Places To Visit: Lake Zell Places To Stay : Superior Hotel Tirolerhof, Hotel Latini Best Restaurants : Seewirt Das Restaurant, The Burger Factory Best Time To Visit: June-August How To Reach: The train from Salzburg is the best way to reach Zell Am See and takes not more than two hours.

11. Hoher Dachstein – The Three-State Mountain

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Located at the border of Upper Austria, Styria, and Salzburg, Hoher Dachstein is the second highest mountain in the Northern Alps. The top of the mountain offers gorgeous views that are to die for. The suspension bridge, skywalk, rock climbing, and the ice palace are a few things to see in Austria .

Ideal for: Adventure and Nature Places To Visit: Dachstein Hängebrücke, Alpine Club Austria Places To Stay : Falkensteiner Hotel Schladming, Dormio Resort Obertraun Best Restaurants : Restaurant Bergstation, Dachstein Ruhe Best Time To Visit: June-August

Suggested Read: Day Trips In Austria

12. Krimml Waterfalls – Austria’s Famous Paradise

Famous for being the highest waterfall in Austria, Krimml Waterfalls is a great place to visit and witness with your loved ones. To reach this fall, you’d have to hike a 4 km trail that would take you through multiple observation platforms and around 1.5 hours to reach the highest tier of the waterfall. The place is home to numerous Austria’s best places to visit.

Ideal for: Nature and Adventure Places To Visit: Krimml Waterfalls, Water Worlds Krimml museum Places To Stay : Villa Deningfeld, Chalet Eva Best Restaurants : Pizzeria Cascata, Reinis Pizzeria Best Time To Visit: Early mornings How To Reach: It’s best to reach falls from Innsbruck since Zilertall where the falls are located, is only 50 km from Innsbruck.

13. Vorarlberg – Land Of Mountains

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Located in Western Austria, Vorarlberg is a state that shares its borders with Germany. This region is characterized by mountainous terrain. It is known for its gorgeous alpine landscapes and adventure ski resorts that make it one of the most famous places to go in Austria . Vorarlberg houses Central Europe’s third-largest lake called Lake Constance, on which the capital of this state – Bregenz sits. Stop by at one of Austria’s best places to visit to be breath-taken by the sight of the magnificent mountains.

The mountain landscape of Vorarlberg makes it a hotspot for hiking and trekking activities. Hiking through the forested trail routes will give you a feeling of coming close to nature. And if not trekking, you can enjoy a cable car ride to witness the splendid views of the valleys. Vorarlberg has some really interesting museums in Austria that attract a lot of tourists.

Ideal for: Austria sightseeing , hiking Places To Visit: Lake Constance, Vorarlberg Museum, Pfänder Mountain, Pfänderbahn, Rolls-Royce Museum, Rappenloch Gorge, Bürserschlucht Gorge Places To Stay : Landhaus Am Walde, Hotel Sonnenburg Best Restaurants : Restaurant Guth, Mangold Best Time To Visit: All round the year How To Reach: Board a train from Innsbruck heading to Bludenz and get down at Vorarlberg.

Suggested Read: 10 Hostels In Austria

14. Tyrol – Heaven In The Alps

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Tyrol is a wonderful state located in Western Austria. Resting in the Alps, this place is a popular ski resort destination. There are also many historic sites including Ambras Castle, Ehrenberg Castle and Kufstein Fortress. You will also find some of the most exciting museums in Tyrol. Other than this, Tyrol is the hub of many famous winter festivals in Europe that you must attend. Count it in your list of the best places to visit in Austria in Sepember .

The popular city of Innsbruck is the capital of Tyrol. This place features ancient gothic churches and traditional baroque-style buildings and palaces. Tyrol is one of the best places to visit in Austria for anyone who is looking forward to exploring a place with natural beauty and historical relevance.

Ideal for: Historical places, sightseeing Places To Visit: Zugspitze, Hofburg, Bergiselschanze, Triumphal Arch, AREA 47, Zillertal Arena, Alpenzoo, Goldenes Dachl Places To Stay : Grandhotel Lienz, Hotel Trofana Royal Best Restaurants : Restaurant Kupfer Stub’n, Waldgasthaus Triendlsäge Best Time To Visit: April-May, September-October How To Reach: Innsbruck is the nearest to Tyrol from where you can arrange your transport.

15. Carinthia – Lakes And Forests

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Carinthia is a region in Austria that surrounds the highest mountain in the country, Grossglockner. Located in the Southern part of Austria, it falls in the Eastern Alps and is one of the most surreal places to visit in Austria . With so many mountains in its pocket, this region has incomparable natural beauty and charm.

Find yourself surrounded by serene lakes and alpine forests, amidst which sit the beautiful medieval structure, the Hochosterwitz Castle. Klagenfurt, the capital of Carinthia is an important wine-producing region. The many Renaissance buildings located in the region make it one of Austria best places to visit for history buffs.

Ideal for: Sightseeing, wine-tasting Places To Visit: Minimundus, Weissensee, Casino Velden, Affenberg Landskron, Church of Maria Saal, Klagenfurt Cathedral, Dragon Fountain Places To Stay : Falkensteiner Schlosshotel Velden, Das Ronacher Therme & Spa Resort Best Restaurants : Restaurant Ofenloch, Kutsche Landhaus Restaurant Best Time To Visit: June-August How To Reach: There are direct trains between Graz and Neuhaus in Carinthia.

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16. Styria – Witness The Wildlife

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Wondering what to see in Austria in 7 days? Styria can be one of the options. It is a Southern state in Austria, popular for its wines and castles. This is a picturesque highly forested mountain region in Austria that has a very dramatic landscape. There are endless snow-capped mountains in the region that characterize the landscape of this place.

The Gesäuse National Park and the Herberstein Zoo are home to some of the indigenous and rare wildlife species in the region. The Baroque structure buildings in the region are also a highlight of Styria and are even more awesome during summer in Austria .

Ideal for: Sightseeing, wildlife Places To Visit: Kunsthaus Graz, Hauser Kaibling, Altstadt von Graz, Hochwurzen, Treppe ins Nichts, Gesäuse National Park, Styrassic Park Places To Stay : Schloss Pichlarn, Naturchalet Höflehner Best Restaurants : Pizzeria Roberts, K.U.K. Wirtshaus Best Time To Visit: June-August, September and October How To Reach: There are direct trains between Graz and Vienna. Graz is the capital of Styria.

17. Burgenland – Taste The Fine Wines

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Falling in Eastern Austria, Burgenland is one of the major wine-producing regions in the country. A highlight of this region is its lavish castles and other building structures from the 18th century. Go on a Vineyard tour or visit the village museum or explore Seewinkel National Park. Add this to your itinerary’s section of Austria best places to visit. 

Ideal for: Sightseeing, wildlife, wine-tasting Places To Visit: Familypark Neusiedlersee, Dorfmuseum Mönchhof, Schloss Esterházy, Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg Places To Stay : Falkensteiner Balance Resort Stegersbach, Country Lake Villa Best Restaurants : Weinek ́s Schenkhaus, Heuriger – Restaurant Gruber – Hofleitner Best Time To Visit: All round the year How To Reach: There are direct buses between Vienna and Burgenland with decent frequency.

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18. Hallstatt – Scenic Lake Views

This is one of the most beautiful Austria tourist attractions as well as one of the most scenic places to visit in all of Europe. It’s essentially a small yet scenic town that sits near the Hallstatt lake overlooking its serene and clear blue waters. When you’re here, scenic beauty isn’t the only thing you’ll get. You can also indulge in some adventurous things to do in Hallstatt like rock climbing, hiking, boating, and see the charming attractions around the town like the Beinhaus (bone house) as well as the ice caves and salt caves.

Ideal for: History, architecture, adventure seekers Places To Visit: Hoher Dachstein, Salzkammergut, Salt Mine Hallstatt, Treppe ins Nichts Places To Stay : Heritage Hotel Hallstatt, Hallstatt Hideaway, Seehotel Grüner Baum Best Restaurants : Bräugasthof, Rudolfsturm, Seecafé Frundsberg Best Time To Visit: March-May, October-November How To Reach: Take a train from Salzburg to Attnang-Puchheim and then transfer to a local train heading towards Hallstatt.

19. Mostviertel – Old World Charm

Mostviertel is located in the lower regions of Austria and is among the most captivating cities to visit in Austria. It has everything to make your holiday a scenic and beautiful affair with rolling meadows, snow-laced rugged peaks, and Europe’s largest stretches of pear orchards. It’s mix of diverse landscapes is mind-blowing and it’s this chocolate box scenery that makes it an unmissable part of any Austria tour. So, if you wish to visit the Austria mountains as well as museums and monuments at the same time, then this is the place to be.

Ideal for: Skiing enthusiasts, history lovers Places To Visit: Donauradweg, Hagenbachklamm, Tulln Places To Stay : Hotel Kartause Gaming, Zur Linde Best Restaurants : Souvlaki Bar, Kastner Restaurant & Weinbar, Gasthaus zur Palme Best Time To Visit: May-October How To Reach: There are direct buses running between the two places.

Suggested Read: 10 Rivers In Austria

20. Alpbach – Skiing And Sledding

Alpbach has been voted one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria in winter and there’s no doubt as to why. This is among the most scenic European villages tucked in the midst of majestic snow-capped Austrian Alps and offers the best places to go in Austria for skiing and sledging. Other than skiing, this town is also known for its unwavering Alpine tradition that can be experienced in its many picturesque wooden farmhouses, scenic cattle fields, and the skilled craftsmanship of the locals.

Ideal for: History, architecture, adventure seekers Places To Visit: Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau, Church Alpbachtal, Alpbacher Talstation Wiedersbergerhornbahn, Lauserland Places To Stay : Bikepension Gästehaus Larch Alpbach, Alphof Hotel Alpbach Best Restaurants : Zirmalm, Gasthaus Jakober, Jausenstation Zottahof Best Time To Visit: August-September, February How To Reach: It is only 50 km from Innsbruck. You could arrange private or public transport from Innsbruck.

21. Eisenstadt – Postcard Perfect Sceneries

The capital of Burgenland, Eisenstadt is one of the most beautiful places to go in Austria since it is known for its rich history. The city was once home to the renowned 18th-century composer Joseph Haydn. Its baroque castles, manicured gardens, and historical museums make it a tourist-worthy destination in Austria. The cobbled streets, charming cafes and downtown areas will make an interesting feed for Instagram

Ideal For: History, Quaint cafes Places To Visit: Esterhazy Castle, Bergkirche, Schlosspark Eisenstadt, Franziskaner Kirche Places To Stay: Hotel Vicedom, Parkhotel Eisenstadt, Hotel Burgenland Eisenstadt Best Restaurants: Restaurant Villa-Antica, Haydnbrau, Ethno Best Time To Visit: September-November How To Reach: The best way to reach Eisenstadt from Vienna is by train or bus. It’s only 62 km from Vienna.

Suggested Read: Austria In December

22. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Best Road Trip Ever

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If you are fond of road trips, then put Grossglockner High Alpine Road on your bucket list. It is one of the must visit places in Austria for nature and adventure lovers. The hairpin road passes through lush alpine meadows, snowfields, and daunting cliffs. The road is literally your gateway to escape into nature. You will find a number of vantage points along the road to admire the raw and breathtaking beauty of Austria.

Ideal For: Road trip, Nature lovers Places To Visit: Grossglockner National Park Places To Stay: Hotel Kasiervilla, Berghotel Hois, Hotel Romerhof Best Restaurants: Rossbach Alm – die Apres Skibar, Hotel-Restaurant Senger, Cafe Bar Laterndl Best Time To Visit: Closed between November-May How To Reach: You culd take a train from Vienna to Grossglockner and then rent a car or an automobile to enjoy a road trip.

23. Lake Constance – Third Largest Lake In Europe

One of the best places in Austria, the ethereal beauty of Lake Constance will blow your mind away. The lake straddles in three countries; Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. Not only is it the third largest lake in Europe but also one of the most picturesque sites on the continent. One can enjoy a day picnic relaxing and soaking in the beautiful views around. In winter, this place becomes famous for thermal baths. You could also go boating in the lake. So, if you want to explore major tourist places to visit in Austria in June, this Lake Constance should definitely come to your mind.

Ideal For: Picnic, Boating Places To Visit: Mainau, Konstanz Minster, Lindau Places To Stay: Hotel Maier, Seehaus Wellenhof, Hotel Seehof Best Restaurants: Papageno, Meera, Heinzler am See, Biohotel Mohren Best Time To Visit: All months except August How To Reach: You could take a direct flight from Vienna to Fredreichshafen to get to the lake.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Villas In Austria

24. National Park Donau Auen – Into The Wild

Recognized in 1996, National Park Donau Auen is home to a variety of species of animals and plants. The park is sprawling across an area of 93 square kilometer where you can enjoy activities like bird watching, kayaking, hiking, and mountain biking. The serene lake in the heart of the national park looks inviting and appealing to the eyes. Explore the best of Austria in this beautiful national park.

Ideal For: Birdwatching, Wildlife Photography Places To Visit: Josefstag, Napoleons Hauptquartier Lobau Places To Stay: Hotel Marc Aurel, Hotel Altes Kloster, Airport Hotel Deininger Best Restaurants: Gasthaus Binder, Haslauerhof, Jamie’s Deli Best Time To Visit:  Throughout the year How To Reach: The park can be reached from Vienna by local buses.

25. National Park Gesause – A Rock Climber’s Paradise

Are you a rock climber? If yes, then you would like to visit the National Park Gesause which is home to six mountains higher than 2000 m. it becomes a paradise for skiers in winter offering skiing slopes. As far as hiking is concerned, you will find more than 100 km of hiking trails in the park. The stunning scenery is bewildering to the senses. Enjoy rafting in the mighty Enns River that flows through the park. It is indeed one of the best places to visit in Austria in September. 

Ideal For: Hiking, skiing, rock climbing Places to Visit : NA Places To Stay: Gesäuse-Lodge, Landgasthof Buchner, JUFA Hotel Schloss Röthelstein/Admont Best Restaurants: Genuss Region Gesäuse Edelwild Best Time To Visit: June to September How To Reach: The park offers soft mobility options. Check the official website for additional information.

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26. National Park Hohe Tauern – The Land Of Austria’s Superlatives

National Park Hohe Tauren is one Austria’s tourist attractions since it is the oldest and largest national park in Austria. A land of Australia’s superlatives, find the country’s largest mountains, glaciers, and forests in this national park. Spot beautiful and unique animal species. You could either explore the park on your own or join a tour guided by the park ranger.

Ideal For: Hiking, Mountaineering Places to Visit : NA Places To Stay: Heimat – Das Natur Resort, Gradonna Mountain Resort Chalets & Hotel, Natur Und Wanderhotel Outside Best Restaurants: Glocknerhaus, Edelweiss Hutte, Restaurant Kirchenwirt Best Time To Visit: Summer season i.e. June-August How To Reach: The best way to reach is by driving down here from Salzburg.

27. Seewinkel National Park – For Birdwatching

Discover the best of Austria and its nature at Seewinkel National Park. located between the Alps and Little Hungarian Plain, Seewinkel consists of a diversity of animal and plants species and landscapes. There are 340 types of bird species that you can spot on your birdwatching tour. It is one of the top places to visit in Austria with family.

Ideal For: Birdwatching, nature walk Places to Visit : NA Places To Stay: Hotel Weingut Rosenhof, Weingut Sekt & Wein – Walter Klein, Bliem’s Wohnreich Best Restaurants: Radlerkeller, Presshaus Ilmitz, Fasslkeller Fam Kroiss Best Time To Visit: Summer season i.e. June-July How To Reach: The best way is to drive here from Vienna. You could either rent a car or taxi. There are bus stops in Weiden/See and Podersdorf/See if you wish to take public transport.

Suggested Read: Austria’s Most Beautiful Spots

28. St Anton am Arlberg – Best Ski Village

If you are wondering where to go in Austria , then consider putting St Anton am Arlberg on your itinerary. The Austrian village is famous for having one of the best ski resorts in Austria where you can enjoy skiing on the fresh slopes. There are about 100 chairlifts at the resort along with a luxurious spa, indoor rock-climbing centre, and plenty of restaurants. The place boasts of amazing nightlife.

Ideal For: Skiing, nightlife Places To Visit: Valluga, Galzig, Sonnenkopf Places To Stay: Sporthotel St. Anton, Skihotel Galzig, Hotel Garni Ernst Falch Best Restaurants: Endlich, Galzig Bistrobar, The Museum Restaurant Best Time To Visit: December-March How To Reach: Request an airport transfer from Innsbruck or Zurich airport via car, bus or shuttle to your resort in the village. It’s only 75 minute-drive from Innsbruck Airport and two-hours away from Zurich Airport.

29. Vienna Woods – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

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What makes Vienna Woods one of the best places in Austria is its abundance of flora-fauna and proximity to the city. When locals want to get away from it all, they drive to Vienna Woods to spend some time in the lap of nature. It is a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve with home to 150 species of birds, 2000 animals, and various plants. The best part is that it is accessible from Vienna via public transport.

Ideal For: Nature getaway Places to Visit : NA Places To Stay: Ferienwohnung Vonwald, Hotel Ekazent Schönbrunn, Eventhotel Pyramide Best Restaurants: NA Best Time To Visit: April-May, September-October How To Reach: Vienna Woods is large consisting of multiple areas under its belt. You could take a train or bus to these respective point. Get on the bus 566 from Vienna central station to get to Laxenburg Castle Gardens.

Suggested Read: Best Honeymoon Destinations In Europe In Winter

30. Krems – Explore Nature And History

One of the top places to see in Austria is Krems, one of the oldest cities dating back to 995 AD. You can explore a millennium of history in the form of old churches, monasteries, streets and squares. Another great thing to admire in Krems is the fortification structures and burgher houses. A stroll through the streets is going to be such a refreshing experience for you, eating at one of the finest Austrian restaurants , and cafes, and exploring attractions.

Ideal for : Sightseeing, exploring historical sites Places To Visit : Kunsthalle Krems, State Gallery of Lower Austria, Göttweig Abbey, Karikaturmuseum Krems, Steiner Tor Places To Stay : Orange Wings Hotel Krems, Gasthof Klinglhuber Best Restaurants : Gasthaus Jell, Schwarze Kuchl, 2Stein Best Time To Visit : All year round How To Reach : The average journey time to travel between Vienna and Krems an der Donau is 1 hour and 10 minutes, via train. There are approximately 50 trains that run on a daily basis, so the travelling part is easy here.

31. Linz – Creative Capital

Linz is the international creative capital of culture arts and one of the best places in Austria . A contemporary city located on the banks of river Danube. A nice walk along the river with a range of cultural attractions and events will keep you entertained and energized in this beautiful city in Austria. With a great number of stunning architecture and historical buildings, Linz has over the time, been ignored and is usually not the first place that comes to mind when visiting Austria. It’s a modern city which is also the third largest in Vienna and housing some of the best hotels in Austria .

Ideal for : Sightseeing, exploring the culture Places To Visit : Linz’s main square, Schlossmuseum Linz, Pöstlingbergbahn, Ars Electronica Center, The New Cathedral, Grottenbahn Places To Stay : Jugendgästehaus Linz, Courtyard by Marriott Linz, Harry’s Home Linz Best Restaurants : Gościnna Chata, Verdi-Restaurant-Einkehr, Restaurant Rauner Best Time To Visit : May to September How To Reach : Plenty of trains from the capital city, Vienna, ply on a regular basis to Linz. In case you are looking for more exploration, then a ferry ride is also feasible when visiting the city of Linz.

Suggested Read: Austria In May

32. Schonbrunn Palace – Heritage Of Austria

Thinking where to go in Austria ? Well, if you are into palaces and all, then this is for you. It is one of the most royal places to visit in Vienna. The palace is a UNESCO World heritage site, so it should be on your bucket list. As you walk into the palace, you will feel the vibes of its royalty. The palace also offers heartwarming attractions like Privy Garden which is full of lush greenery.

Ideal for: History, Architecture Best Time To Visit: April to May, September to October How To Reach: There are many trams and buses that go till Schonbrun palace.

33. Vienna State Opera – Rendezvous With The Culture

Vienna state opera is one of the top places in Austria for the culture vultures. If you are interested in art and culture, then this will definitely fascinate you. Firstly, the very structure of the museum will grab your attention. You can take a tour of the museum and learn about the culture of the city in detail here.

Ideal for: Culture, Architecture Best Time To Visit: April to May, September to October How To Reach: There are many trams till Vienna State Opera

Suggested Read: Austria In November

34. Eisriesenwelt Cave – A Unique Attraction

There are many places in Austria to visit while you are holidaying there. One of them is Eisriesenwelt Cave. It is one of the most outlandish and mysterious attractions in the country. You will have to go several steps down in order to reach the cave. The cave is surrounded by ice all over and will give you a thrilling experience like never before. If you wish to explore unique places to visit in Austria, don’t forget to visit Eisriesenwelt Cave.

Ideal for: Adventure, Nature Best Time To Visit: September to October, April to May How To Reach: There are many buses to go to the cave

Further Read: 8 Salzburg Hotels

Though we’ve included the must-see places to visit in Austria, there is so much more to experience in this beautiful country and in Europe too! To help you plan your perfect vacation, we would recommend you plan a trip to Austria with TravelTriangle and enjoy a customized holiday just like you have always desired or dreamt of. Happy traveling!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Austria

Which are some of the safest places to visit in Austria for families with kids?

Austria encompasses a multitude of awe-inspiring places which one can visit with family. Some of the most picturesque and safe places to visit in Austria for families with little ones are: 1. Graz 2. Bregenz 3. Vienna 4. Innsbruck 5. Klagenfurt

Which are some of the must-visit places in Austria for couples?

Austria is home to majestic landmarks, fascinating cities, and charming towns. Amid the plethora of captivating places to visit in Austria, some of the must-visit attractions for couples are: 1. Vienna 2. Salzburg 3. Bad Gastein 4. Feldkirch 5. Hallstatt 6. Innsbruck

Which are the best places to visit in Austria?

There are various places in Austria that you must visit for a memorable vacation in this European country: 1. Innsbruck 2. Salzkammergut 3. Salzburg 4. Vienna 5. Zell am See

Which is the most beautiful city in Austria?

You won’t find one but many towns in the country of Austria that are a true beauty like: 1. Hallstatt Village 2. Innsbruck 3. Bad Gastein 4. Alpbach 5. Durnstein

What is the best way to travel around in Austria?

For a hassle-free travel experience, you should travel around Austria in a train. The Austrian Federal Railways operate the trains in this country.

What is a typical Austrian breakfast?

A typical Austrian breakfast is high in nutrients and the most popular Austrian food includes cooked eggs, grilled tomatoes, mushrooms, smoked bacon, sausages, beans, and hash browns.

Which is the best time to visit Austria?

April, May, September & October are the best months to visit Austria.

What should I buy in Austria?

Some of the best souvenirs to get back from Austria are the Mozart Balls and Austrian Beer Glasses.

Is Vienna easy to walk around?

Yes, if you like walking, then you can cover a major part of Vienna on foot. So, do not forget to pack a pair of comfortable shoes.

When does it snow in Austria?

One can expect snow in Vienna from late December till March.

What is Austria famous for?

Austria is known for castles, palaces, historical buildings and unique structures that speak of its glorious history.

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12 Best Places to Visit in Austria

Once part of a vast European empire, Austria today still mirrors the richness of its past glories. Vienna has long shined as a beacon of classical music, architecture, art… and pastries. Salzburg was the birthplace of Mozart and is home to a whole lot of beautiful buildings. And even though it’s a big part of what makes Austria genuinely great, this landlocked country is much more than history and pretty architecture.

Thanks to being mostly situated in the Alps, it is a very popular place with skiers and hikers with a whole lot of stunning scenery to soak up in. Charming towns tucked in sweeping green hillsides topped by craggy peaks lie in wait.

Pure mountain air and alpine resorts beckon. Austria is a showcase for just how beautiful mountain scenery, valleys and lakes can be. Plan your trip to this gorgeous Alpine country with our list of the best places to visit in Austria.

12. Bad Gastein

The picturesque spa town of Bad Gastein is located in the heart of Austria’s High Tauern Mountains. Covered in lush forests and surrounded by steep, mountainous cliffs, Bad Gastein is known for its spectacular landscape and charming Belle Epoque architecture.

One of the most notable buildings in the area is the Grand de l’Europe Hotel. Perched on the side of the mountain slopes and towering over the city below, this 11-story hotel has been an iconic landmark since it’s construction over 110 years ago. The impressive Bad Gasteiner Waterfall is also a unique sight to see, as it flows directly through the middle of the town center.

Many people also come to visit Bad Gastein for the therapeutic thermal spring waters. Dozens of resorts and thermal baths in the area offer radon therapy, which is believed to treat issues related to the immune, musculoskeletal, and respiratory systems.

11. Worthersee

The largest lake in Carinthia , the Worthersee lies in the south of Austria at the foot of the Gurktal Alps and Karawanks mountain range. Due to its spectacular setting and scenery, it is a top-rated tourist destination. In summer, many people come to swim in the warm waters and bask in the Mediterranean climate.

The lake is surrounded by lush forests, which make for some fantastic hiking . There’s also a scenic bike path winding its way along the lakeside. The Worthersee is a great place to enjoy outdoor activities, with horseback riding, golf, and watersports.

While it was once known as ‘Austria’s Monte Carlo’ due to the Viennese nobles and bourgeoisie who vacationed here, it is now a more family-friendly destination. Along the shores of the lake, you can find everything from charming, picturesque towns to relaxing spas and pounding nightlife venues.

Austria’s second-largest city, Graz, is a lovely place to visit. It is set on the banks of the Mur River, with fertile farmland, lush forests, and rolling hills lying nearby. Due to its strategic location in the southeast of the country, the city has been fought over and ruled by everyone from the Romans and Hapsburgs to the Hungarians, Ottomans, and Napoleon.

Styria ‘s capital boasts one of the best-preserved historic centers in the whole of Central Europe. Baroque palaces and Renaissance courtyards are found alongside centuries-old churches and modern museums. At its heart is the tree-clad Schlossberg Hill , rising above the city with its iconic clocktower peeking out at the top.

Although it is steeped in history, Graz has a lively and youthful feel and a vibrant nightlife scene. Lots of bars, restaurants, and cafes cater to the large student population that attends the numerous universities and colleges dotted about town.

9. Zillertal Alps

Snaking along the border of Austria and Italy is the Zillertal Alps. Home to towering glacial peaks, jagged mountain cliffs, and tree-lined valleys, the Zillertal Alps is one of the most impressive landscapes in central Europe.

There are more than 85 different glaciers in Zittertal, some of which stand over 11,000-feet above sea level. The Hintertux Glacier is one of the tallest and is open 365 days a year for both skiing and hiking. Due to its altitude, it’s one of the only two ski resorts in the world open year-round.

With hundreds of miles of outdoor trails, the Zillertal Alps is a popular destination for mountaineers, hikers, and backpackers. Beginner hikers can trek along the lower-level pastures, while more advanced hikers can opt for a long-distance hike through the High Alps Nature Park . The 30-mile Zillertal High Road is an alternative option for those who prefer to enjoy the landscape from the comfort of their car.

8. Grossglockner Alpine Road

The epic 30-mile journey down Grossglockner Road is easily considered the most scenic road trip in Austria. The road starts in Bruck and travels towards the magnificent 12,461-foot Grossglockner, Austria’s tallest mountain. The winding road also goes through Hochtor Pass and across the Alpine divide at 8,200 feet above sea level, boasting breathtaking views of the dramatic valleys and mountains along the way.

With plenty of hairpin turns , Grossglockner Road is a thrilling adventure for drivers and passengers alike. However, it’s also a popular destination for hikers, thanks to the multitudes of trails and paths that lead around the mountain.

Some of the most popular hiking routes are along Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe lookout point. Enjoy panoramic views of Grossglockner from the Gamsgrubenweg path, trek up to the icy glaciers on the Pasterze Glacier path , or embark on a long-distance journey into Slovenia and Italy on the Alpe Adria Trail.

7. St Anton am Arlberg

Nestled in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, St Anton am Arlberg is one of the most popular ski resort towns in Austria. The entire region is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, featuring an extensive ski area that caters for a mixed level of abilities.

The 9,215-foot Valluga Mountain is a highlight for skiers and non-skiers alike. Visitors can reach the summit by two aerial tramways – known as the Vallugabahns – while enjoying magnificent views over the awe-inspiring Lechtal Alps.

Although most people associate St Anton am Arlberg with winter, it’s also a popular summer destination. Once the snow melts, the grassy meadows and lush, tree-lined forests are ideal for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking.

Surrounded by the snow-covered mountains , the town of St Anton am Arlberg is also charming in its own right. Despite its compact size, the village has plenty of traditional restaurants and cozy cafes.

Austria’s Wachau Valley is a scenic 18-mile stretch of dramatic cliffs, rolling hills, and picturesque vineyards. Situated along the Danube River , Wachau Valley is located in the state of Lower Austria, which is actually in the northeastern part of the country.

The Wachau Valley is one of Austria’s smallest but most important wine regions. There are several vineyards dotted along the river, many of which produce the famous Grüner Veltliner and Riesling grapes.

One of the most visited towns in the valley is Dürnstein , which is home to the Dürnstein Castle. It was here that Richard I of England was held captive by Duke Leopold V during the Third Crusade in 1193.

The best way to explore the valley is by bike, and you’ll find paved biked paths on both sides of the river. Besides a visit to Dürnstein, it’s also worth stopping by the charming towns of Melk, renowned for its beautiful Benedictine abbey , Krems, Willendorf, and Spritz.

5. Zell am See

Tucked away in an idyllic valley among the majestic Kitzbuhel Alps, the alpine city of Zell am See is as picture-perfect as they come. The small city is set on the shores of a vividly blue lake , from which it draws its name, with cosy chalets and flower-filled meadows coating the slopes.

While hiking, cycling, and watersports are popular in the summer, the winter months see skiers and snowboarders descend upon the town due to the marvelous mountains and ski resorts nearby. Although it is small, its quaint center is well worth exploring at any time of year for its cosy alpine look and feel. One of its most famous attractions is the Romanesque St. Hippolyte’s Church, with an elevated walkway that dates back to the early 16th century.

Due to its stunning setting, Zell am See is a popular tourist destination. It’s also an important transport hub for the rest of the Salzburg region. The towering Mount Grossglockner – the tallest mountain in Austria – lies nearby. From the town, many people drive along the spellbinding High Alpine Road running below it.

4. Innsbruck

Located in one of the most visually arresting settings imaginable, Innsbruck lies on the banks of the Inn River, with 2000-meter-high mountains rearing up around it. While the awe-inspiring scenery and landscapes are what many people come for, the city itself offers an intriguing mix of history, culture, and architecture.

Innsbruck’s strategic location among the Alps saw it become an influential center of European politics and culture under the Counts of Tyrol and Emperor Maximilian I . As such, beautiful buildings such as the Baroque Saint Jacob Cathedral, Renaissance-style Hapsburg Imperial Palace, and 16th century Schloss Ambras can be found scattered around its medieval old town.

The ‘Capital of the Alps,’ as it is also known, has lots of brilliant hiking trails for visitors to explore, and skiing is a must in wintertime. From the center of the city, you can take the Nordkettenbahnen cable car to the top of Nordkette mountain, which offers phenomenal views of the city below and the breathtaking scenery around it.

3. Salzkammergut

Stretching from the city of Salzburg to the prominent peaks of the Dachstein Mountains, Salzkammergut is one of the most beautiful parts of Austria. Within its loosely defined confines are glimmering lakes, rolling hills, alpine valleys, and dramatic mountain ranges. Travelers who have seen the movie The Sound Of Music will know what this lake region looks like, because that movie was filmed in and around the city of Salzburg and the neighboring Salzkammergut region .

Wonderfully wild and untouched for the most part, Salzkammergut is a mecca for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking and mountain biking both popular pastimes. Many holidaymakers also come to enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating on reflective lakes such as Hallstatter See , Mondsee , and Wolgangsee – all of which are set amidst some stunning scenery.

While the region is sparsely populated, it boasts a long history dating back to Neolithic times and is named after the salt mines that dot the area. Pockets of civilization can be found here and there. Charming lakeside towns such as St Wolfgang and the picture-perfect St Hallstatt are well worth a visit. Its spellbinding setting often sees the latter referred to as ‘the pearl of Austria.’

In addition, visitors can opt to relax and unwind at the spa town of Bad Ischl, venture underground to explore the Dachstein Ice Caves at Obertrau, or go paragliding from the lofty heights of Krippenstein mountain.

2. Salzburg

Situated in central Austria, near the German border, Salzburg is probably best known as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart . Travelers come to Austria’s fourth-largest city to view the sights that inspired such unforgettable music. With its hill-topped medieval fortress, picturesque Altstadt (old town) and breath-taking Alpine scenery, Salzburg’s beauty is sure to enchant visitors in every season of the year.

Stretching along the banks of the Salzach River , Salzburg is a historic city that looks as if it was lifted out of a storybook. For those seeking to relive scenes from the 1965 movie “The Sound of Music”, must-see attractions include the 17th-century Baroque Mirabell Palace and Gardens, the gazebo in the Schloss Hellbrunn’s gardens and the actual von Trapp family home, which is now a hotel. Mozart aficionados can visit his birthplace as well as a reconstruction of his home, complete with period instruments, portraits and musical scores.

Rising 120 meters (400 feet) above the city, the Festung Hohensalzburg is a 900-year-old fortress built more for show than defense. Although most of the medieval castle’s artifacts were taken during the Napoleonic Wars, vistas from the fortress are its real treasures. Visitors can reach the castle by foot or by a quick ride in a 19th century funicular.

Whether rambling through Altstadt, the city’s old town, marveling at the abundance of Baroque architecture or relaxing in an open-air beer garden sipping a local brew, Salzburg is a travel destination that appeals to all the senses.

Elegant waltzes and Johann Strauss immediately come to mind when one thinks of Vienna , the capital of Austria and its largest city; it still holds more than 200 balls each year. But the city also is known for other classical composers such as Mozart, Brahms, Beethoven and Schubert.

Most of the main architectural sights are contained within the Ringstrasse , a circular road that marks where walls once enclosed the ancient city. The city’s architecture ranges from Gothic cchurches to Art Nouveau exhibition centers, from Baroque palaces to modern art museums. Standouts include the 1400-room Schönbrunn Palace , the Kunsthistorisches Museum and the Belvedere Palace , which features works by the city’s most famous painter, Gustav Klimt.

The city’s musical culture is just as varied. Visitors can watch the world-renowned Vienna Philharmonic perform at the awe-inspiring State Opera House or explore the new Vienna sound being pioneered by local DJs in the city’s hottest night clubs. From sausage and schnitzel to chocolate and cakes, culinary pleasures in Vienna are plentiful too.

Coffee houses can be found in almost any neighborhood in Vienna as well. Some have been in operation for hundreds of years. They not only offer some of the best coffee concoctions in the world but also provide places in which to pause, relax and take in the many sights of this scenic city on the Danube River.

Map of Places to Visit in Austria

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Reader interactions.

July 21, 2018 at 2:01 am

Hallstatt has to be one of the most beautiful towns I’ve ever visited.

October 26, 2017 at 12:17 am

I am just waiting to fulfill my wish since I watched the movies Heidi and Sound of Music as a little girl and wanted to see Austria…. hope to be there soon.

October 20, 2017 at 4:46 am

I totally agree with your list. Austria is so beautiful country and so aristocratic. I love its atmosphere and I love talking with the locals. They are so friendly and always ready to help. My favorite place is Vienna of course. If I could, I would live there.

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LIFESTYLE & TRAVEL BLOG IN VIENNA

25 best places to visit in austria 2024: a comprehensive travel guide.

Last Updated on January 19, 2024 by gregor

As a travel blogger living in Austria, I have had the privilege of exploring some of the most beautiful towns, villages, and cities in the country. From the snow-capped peaks of the Austrian Alps to the charming towns and villages nestled in the countryside, Austria is a destination that has something for everyone. In this blog post, I will share with you the best places to visit in Austria , including the most picturesque small towns and villages, the most beautiful cities, and the top attractions in each location.

25 Best Places to Visit in Austria in 2024 – Top Attractions in Austria

Austria is a beautiful country located in Central Europe that is filled with breathtaking natural scenery, charming cities, and rich history. As a travel blogger living in Austria, I have had the opportunity to explore many of its best places to visit. In this blog post, I will be sharing with you the Top 25 best places to visit in Austria that you should not miss during your trip.

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Vienna, the Capital city of Austria

Vienna, the capital city of Austria, is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Austria. Known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene, Vienna is a city that offers something for everyone. Some of the must-visit attractions in Vienna include the Schönbrunn Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, and the Vienna State Opera.

VISITING VIENNA – Read my full Vienna Travel Guides with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Vienna:

Wachau Valley – Wachau Danube Valley

The Wachau Valley Danube Valley is a stunning region located in Lower Austria that is renowned for its picturesque vineyards, charming villages, and rich history. A visit to this region is not complete without taking a leisurely boat ride on the Danube River, exploring the charming towns of Krems and Dürnstein, and sampling the delicious local wines.

Read my full Wachau Valley Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Wachau Valley:

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Salzburg City

Salzburg is a beautiful city located in the northern part of Austria that is known for its stunning baroque architecture, charming old town, and its association with the famous composer Mozart. The city is also home to several must-visit attractions such as the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg Cathedral, and the Mirabell Palace and Gardens.

Read my full Salzburg Travel Guides with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Salzburg:

ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE OF SALZBURG, AUSTRIA

25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN SALZBURG AUSTRIA

Salzkammergut Wolfgangsee / Bad Ischl

Salzkammergut Wolfgangsee and Bad Ischl are two stunning destinations located in the heart of the Salzkammergut region. These two destinations are known for their picturesque landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and charming villages. A visit to Salzkammergut Wolfgangsee and Bad Ischl is not complete without exploring the stunning Hallstatt, one of the most photographed villages in Austria.

Hallstatt is a small picturesque village situated in the heart of the Salzkammergut region of Austria. It is one of the oldest and most charming villages in Austria, known for its rich history, traditional architecture, and breathtaking scenery. Hallstatt is also famous for its salt mines, which have been in operation since prehistoric times. Visitors can take a guided tour of the salt mines and learn about the history of salt mining in the region.

Apart from the salt mines, Hallstatt has a lot of other attractions to offer to its visitors. The village is surrounded by beautiful mountains and crystal-clear lakes, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers. The Hallstätter See, which is the main lake in the region, offers numerous water sports activities, including swimming, fishing, and boating.

Hallstatt’s old town is another attraction worth visiting. The town’s narrow streets are lined with beautiful baroque buildings, quaint cafes, and souvenir shops. Visitors can also take a cable car ride up to Salzberg Mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Read my full Hallstatt Travel Guides with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Hallstatt:

BEST ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS IN HALLSTATT FOR (TOURISTS)

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Zell am See

Zell am See is a beautiful town situated in the Austrian state of Salzburg. It is located on the shore of Lake Zell and is surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Austrian Alps. Zell am See is a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful scenery, winter sports, and vibrant nightlife.

During the winter months, Zell am See is a popular ski resort, with over 138 km of slopes and 50 ski lifts. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and other winter sports activities. In the summer, the town is a popular destination for hiking, mountain biking, and water sports.

Zell am See’s old town is another attraction worth visiting. The town’s narrow streets are lined with beautiful buildings and traditional Austrian shops and restaurants. Visitors can also take a boat ride on Lake Zell and enjoy the beautiful views of the surrounding mountains.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road and Valley

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road and Valley is a scenic route that takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes in Austria. The route takes you through the Hohe Tauern National Park, which is home to the highest mountain in Austria, the Grossglockner. The route also takes you through several charming villages, including Heiligenblut and Fusch.

Hohe Tauern National Park

The Hohe Tauern National Park is a stunning natural park located in the Austrian Alps that is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, crystal-clear lakes, and rich wildlife. The park is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Grossglockner Mountain, the Krimml Waterfalls, and the Zell am See-Kaprun ski resort.

Maria Alm is a beautiful village situated in the Austrian state of Salzburg. It is located in the heart of the Austrian Alps and is known for its beautiful scenery, traditional architecture, and outdoor activities. Maria Alm is a popular destination for skiing, hiking, and mountain biking, with over 150 km of ski slopes and 340 km of hiking trails.

The village’s old town is another attraction worth visiting. The town’s narrow streets are lined with beautiful baroque buildings and traditional Austrian shops and restaurants. Visitors can also take

Innsbruck is a beautiful city situated in the heart of the Austrian Alps. It is the capital city of the Austrian state of Tyrol and is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning scenery. Innsbruck is also a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, with over 200 km of ski slopes and 55 cable cars.

Innsbruck’s old town is a must-visit attraction for all visitors. The town’s narrow streets are lined with beautiful medieval buildings, charming cafes, and souvenir shops. Visitors can also take a stroll through the city’s beautiful parks and gardens, including the famous Hofgarten, which is located in the heart of the city.

Innsbruck is also home to several famous attractions, including the Golden Roof, the Hofburg Imperial Palace, and the Bergisel Ski Jump. The Golden Roof is a famous landmark of the city and is covered with 2,657 gilded copper tiles. The Hofburg Imperial Palace is a beautiful palace complex that was the seat of the Habsburgs in the 15th century. The Bergisel Ski Jump is a famous ski jumping facility that offers stunning views of the city.

Read my full Innsbruck Travel Guides with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Innsbruck:

16 BEST THINGS TO DO IN INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA – TOP INNSBRUCK ATTRACTIONS

Zillertal Alps

The Zillertal Alps is a stunning mountain range located in the western part of Austria that is known for its breathtaking natural scenery and world-class skiing. The mountain range is home to several ski resorts, including Mayrhofen, Zell am Ziller, and Fügen, which offer a range of ski runs suitable for all skill levels.AlpbachAlpbach is a charming village located in the Tyrol region that is known for its stunning scenery, charming architecture, and rich history. The village is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Alpbach Church, the Museum of Tyrolean Farmhouses, and the Reither See, a beautiful lake located just outside the village.

Tyrol is a stunning region located in western Austria that is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, world-class skiing, and rich cultural heritage. The region is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Swarovski Crystal Worlds, the Innsbruck Christmas Market, and the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, one of the largest ski resorts in Austria.

Read my full Tyrol Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Tyrol:

BEST THINGS TO DO IN TYROL, AUSTRIA – BEST ATTRACTIONS IN TIROL

Bregenz is a stunning city located on the shores of Lake Constance that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Bregenz Festival, the Kunsthaus Bregenz, and the Pfänderbahn cable car, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Lake Constance.

Arlberg / Lech and St. Anton am Arlberg

Arlberg is a stunning region located in western Austria that is known for its world-class skiing, breathtaking natural scenery, and charming villages. The region is home to several ski resorts, including Lech and St. Anton am Arlberg, which offer a range of ski runs suitable for all skill levels.

TOP 5 REASONS WHY WE LOVE THE ARLBERG AND YOU SHOULD TOO

Lienz / Ost Tirol

Lienz is a beautiful town located in southern Austria and is known for its beautiful buildings and scenic location. The town has a rich history and is home to several museums and historical sites.

Visitors can take a stroll through the old town and admire the beautiful Gothic and Baroque buildings. They can also visit the Schloss Bruck Castle and the Lienz Museum of Local History. In the winter, the town offers skiing and snowboarding in the nearby ski resorts.

Carinthia is a stunning region located in southern Austria that is known for its crystal-clear lakes, breathtaking natural scenery, and charming villages. The region is home to several must-visit attractions, including Lake Wörthersee, the Nockberge Biosphere Park, and the Bad Kleinkirchheim ski resort.

Read my full Carinthia Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Carinthia:

25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN CARINTHIA, AUSTRIA, TOP ATTRACTIONS

Lake Wörthersee is a stunning lake located in Carinthia that is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene. The lake is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with several water sports activities available, including swimming, boating, and windsurfing.

Read my full Wörthersee Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do at Lake Wörthersee:

TOP THINGS TO DO AT THE WÖRTHERSEE, CARINTHIA, AUSTRIA

Bad Gastein

Bad Gastein is a stunning spa town located in the heart of the Austrian Alps that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class skiing. The town is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Gastein Waterfall, the Felsentherme spa, and the Ski amadé ski resort.

Read my full Bad Gastein Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Bad Gastein:

TOP THINGS TO DO IN BAD GASTEIN – AUSTRIAN ALPS

Krimml Waterfalls

The Krimml Waterfalls is a stunning natural attraction located in the Hohe Tauern National Park that is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and rich wildlife. The waterfall is the highest in Austria, with a total height of 380 meters, and is a popular destination for nature lovers and

Graz is a stunning city located in the southeastern part of Austria that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Schlossberg, the Graz Clock Tower, and the Kunsthaus Graz, a contemporary art museum.

Read my full Graz Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Graz:

TOP 20 BEST THINGS TO DO AND SEE IN GRAZ AUSTRIA FOR TOURISTS

Linz is a vibrant city located in the northern part of Austria that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The city is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Ars Electronica Center, the Lentos Kunstmuseum, and the Pöstlingbergbahn, a historic mountain railway.

Read my full Linz Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Linz:

BEST THINGS TO DO IN LINZ, AUSTRIA TOP LINZ ATTRACTIONS

Burgenland is a stunning region located in eastern Austria that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class wine. The region is home to several must-visit attractions, including Lake Neusiedl, the Esterházy Palace, and the Eisenstadt Cathedral.

Read my full Burgenland Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Burgenland:

BEST THINGS TO DO IN BURGENLAND, AUSTRIA, TOP ATTRACTIONS

Eisenstadt is a charming town located in Burgenland that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The town is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Esterházy Palace, the Haydn House, and the Bergkirche, a beautiful baroque church.

Neusiedlersee

Lake Neusiedl is a stunning lake located in Burgenland that is known for its crystal-clear waters, beautiful beaches, and vibrant wildlife. The lake is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with several water sports activities available, including swimming, boating, and windsurfing.

LAKE NEUSIEDLERSEE, BURGENLAND

Lower Austria

Lower Austria is a stunning region located in the northeastern part of Austria that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-class wine. The region is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Melk Abbey, the Krems-Stein historic town center, and the Wachau Valley, a beautiful river valley known for its stunning vineyards and picturesque villages.

Read my full Lower Austria Travel Guide with Travel Tips, Recommended Guided Tours, Best Things to do in Lower Austria:

35 BEST THINGS TO DO IN LOWER AUSTRIA, TOP ATTRACTIONS

Melk Abbey is a stunning Benedictine abbey located in Lower Austria that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The abbey is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Marble Hall, the Library, and the Church, all of which are known for their breathtaking beauty.

Krems-Stein historic town center

The Krems-Stein historic town center is a charming area located in Lower Austria that is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. The area is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Göttweig Abbey, the Danube University Krems, and the Wachau Valley.

Wachau Valley

The Wachau Valley is a stunning river valley located in Lower Austria that is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, picturesque villages, and world-class wine. The valley is home to several must-visit attractions, including the Dürnstein Castle, the Melk Abbey, and the Wine Museum.

Austria is a beautiful country that is known for its breathtaking natural scenery, rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you are looking for world-class skiing, crystal-clear lakes, charming villages, or stunning vineyards, Austria has something to offer everyone.

In this blog post, we have highlighted some of the best places to visit in Austria, including Vienna, Wachau Valley, Danube Valley, Salzburg City, Salzkammergut Wolfgangsee/Bad Ischl, Hallstatt, Zell am See, Grossglockner High Alpine Road and Valley, Hohe Tauern National Park, Innsbruck, Zillertal Alps, Alpbach, Tyrol, Bregenz, Arlberg/Lech and St. Anton am Arlberg, Carinthia, Wörthersee, Bad Gastein, Zell am See, Krimml Waterfalls, Graz, Linz, Burgenland, Eisenstadt, Neusiedlersee, and Lower Austria.

Each of these destinations has its own unique charm and attractions that make them worth visiting. From the grandeur of Vienna to the natural wonders of the Hohe Tauern National Park, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Austria.

So, whether you are planning a ski trip or a summer vacation, make sure to add Austria to your travel itinerary. You won’t be disappointed!

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Home » Travel Guides » Austria » 15 Best Places to Visit in Austria

15 Best Places to Visit in Austria

Boasting the rugged tips of the Eastern Alps and the glacial caps of the Hohe Tauern, quaint medieval towns built with timber and set in the shadow of soaring mountaintops, regal cities forged by the hands of Habsburgs and Holy Roman Emperors, the world’s most famous coffee culture and sweeping forests of fir, beach and hornbeam, there’s no question that Austria is one of the handsomest countries on the European continent! Here, we delve into its major metropolises and backcountry spots to spy out all the must-see destinations this glorious nation of ski fields and strudels has to offer. Enjoy our list of the best places to visit in Austria !

The glorious imperial home of the old Habsburg dynasty that once reigned supreme over the heartlands of Central Europe, Vienna is a medley of majestic Baroque facades, elaborate palaces and romantic parks. In the centre of town the mighty Hofburg spreads its grand and neoclassical wings around the manicured Heldenplatz, while the totemic institutions of the Museumsquartier stand nearby, bursting with works by Klimt, Picasso and Warhol. Then there’s the winding web of streets that forms the Vienna Innere Stadt (old town); home to vaulted cafes and art deco teahouses where the spectres of Freud, Wittgenstein and Trotsky still lurk in the alcoves. Yes sir, Vienna’s simply not to be missed!

2. Hochosterwitz Castle

Soaring more than 170 meters above the rolling fields and pine-clad hills that bubble up so beautifully on the Zollfeld plains between the Julian Alps and the Eastern Alps proper, Hochosterwitz Castle is a Game of Thrones-esque symphony of crenulated bulwarks, spiked turrets and formidable gatehouse keeps. It’s hailed as one of the most magnificent citadels in all of Europe, and boasts a history going back more than 1,000 years, encompassing tales of Carinthian dukes, Habsburg emperors and the fear of Turkish invasions from the east. Travellers can scale to the top of Hochosterwtitz along the old fortified entrance path, passing no fewer than 14 defensive gates as they go and watching as panoramas of Slovenia and East Austria unfold on all sides.

3. The Grossglockner

The veritable roof of Austria as a whole makes its home amidst the chiselled summits and rugged peaks of the Hohe Tauern massif. Here, on the very divide between Carinthia and the Zillertal Alps of the Tyrol, the mighty Grossglockner soars to a whopping 3,798 meters above sea level. A symphony of peaks and glacial valleys that rises to the Kleinglockner sub-summit before hitting its highest point on the Grossglockner proper, the mountain is now the second most popular tourist attraction in the country (second only to the Schönbrunn in Vienna). People come to hike in the glorious Alpine landscapes all around the peak, or to traverse the iconic High Alpine Road that hairpins around the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoints and 2,500-meter-high mountain passes.

Oft hailed as the most handsome of Austria’s many winter resorts, Alpbach sits more than 1,000 meters up in the midst of the Tyrolean Alps. Surrounded by blooming meadows of buttercups, poppies and rock jasmine by summer and more than 145 kilometers of groomed skiing runs by winter, travelers can explore a medley of timber chalets and traditional Austrian homes adorned with cascading bougainvillea and carved balconies, not to mention the gorgeous St Oswald Church, where the eminent Erwin Schrödinger lays resting.

5. Finkenberg

The charming little Tyrolean town of Finkenberg can be found cascading down a hillside in the depths of the magnificent Zillertal Valley, a medley of rustic timber homes and Austrian taverns that’s draped in pillows of packed snow by winter and enfolded by evergreen Alpine peaks during the warmer months of the year. And aside from its pretty appearance, the quaint little village is also home to the Finkenberger Almbahnen, which transports skiers and boarders to the celebrated pistes of Mayrhofen, while just a little further down the Zillertal, the mighty Hintertux glacier offers year-round snow sports and fantastic panoramas over the Trentino-Alto Alps in Italy to the south!

Nestled in the very heart of the western Tyrol on the central valley of the River Inn, pretty little Imst clings to the base of the Austrian Alps and the downhill pistes of the Hoch-Imst ski area. The town itself is a charming affair of tight-knit roadways watched over by the occasional Germanic church spire or snow-dusted onion dome, while the bucolic surroundings consist of rolling farm fields, soaring limestone summits, sweeping spruce and fir forests, the occasional timber barn and countless winding hiking and mountain biking trails to boot!

7. Innsbruck

Centred on one truly gorgeous Old Town of Baroque palaces and Tyrolean mansions, Innsbruck is every inch the onetime residence of revered Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I. Weaving between the cobbled lanes and old imperial palaces left over from Habsburg rule, visitors here can spy out sights like the Golden Roof and the grand whitewashed Hofburg. And then there are armouries to see, and glorious Ambras Castle on the ridges above the city, not to mention the wealth of lively little Bavarian-style beer halls and energetic apres joints touting schnitzel and strudel near the base of the nearby pistes!

8. Zell am See

Austria’s quintessential Alpine lake town, Zell am See hugs its eponymous cobalt-blue waters right on the edge of the mighty Hohe Tauern ranges. From its enclave of fir-clad ridges and snow-mantled peaks, the spot has become a veritable outdoorsy paradise, drawing millions of adventure travelers each year with the promise of some of Austria’s finest sailing, hiking, mountain biking, scenic driving and – of course – skiing, which takes place mainly on the icecaps of the Kitzsteinhorn above nearby Kaprun. And as if that’s not enough, Zell am See is also home to one seriously handsome centre of ice-cream coloured chalets, while rhododendron and edelweiss bloom from the timber verandas and earthy eateries of Dreifaltigkeitsgasse (the town’s main drag).

One of the jewels of the north Austrian lake district that straddles the borders of the Salzburgerland and Upper Austria regions, Mondsee will be recognisable to some as the backdrop to some of the central scenes in The Sound of Music (the famous wedding took place in the historic and beautiful Mondsee Abbey). Gloriously located along the banks of its eponymous lake, shrouded by a phalanx of Alpine peaks – the Drachenwand and the hills of Innerschwand – and loaded with everything from UNESCO-attested cave dwellings to golf courses and sailing clubs, it’s easy to see why this postcard-perfect retreat remains uber-popular amongst locals looking to escape the city.

A glorious Old Town heart and a lively student vibe make Graz one of Austria’s best-loved and most fun-loving cities. Anchored on one seriously attractive Innere Stadt that fuses everything from Renaissance to Gothic to Slavic architectural styles between its cobbled streets and sea of red-tiled roofs, the centre here is awash with fascinating historical sites, like the Schlossberg hill, complete with one curious clock tower, and the Styrian Armoury, where a whopping 32,000 guns, swords, suits of armour and more stand testimony to the city’s onetime place on the frontier between the Ottoman Empire and Western Europe.

11. Hallstatt

The stuff of postcards and travel brochures, Hallstatt has been risen from its valley amidst the gorgeous Salzkammergut to become something of the poster boy for Alpine Austria and its charming medieval towns. It comes complete with terraces of ivy-clad, half-timbered chalets that glow in hues of pink and wood-brown against the reflections of the shimmering Hallstätter See, and is oft hailed as the single most beautiful town in the country. But it’s not all about the looks here: during the first millennium BC the town figured as the centre of a salt mining boom in the Upper Austrian region, and today visitors can spy out the tunnels of the 2,500-year-old Hallein Salt Mine, and a fantastic Heritage Museum that chronicles the ancient history of the town to boot!

12. Feldkirch

Visitors who delve into the alleys and archways, cobbled squares and tight-knit side streets of Feldkirch on the edge of the Austrian Vorarlberg region discover a unique blend of Swiss, Francophone and Germanic heritage. The action centres on fairy-tale Marktgasse, which bustles with authentic beer houses and Rhineland eateries, while it’s the soaring Schattenburg Castle crowning the hillsides just on the edge of town that really draws the eye; a formidable collection of four keeps and fortified bulwarks that was once the home of the Montfort Earls.

13. Bad Gastein

Something of a more regal and straight-laced alternative to the usual Tyrolean timber towns and chalets that pepper the Austrian Alps, Bad Gastein bursts forth from the deep valleys of the Hohe Tauern National Park in an elegant and irresistible medley of Belle Époque and Art Deco. In the middle of the town, the gushing cataracts of the Gastein Waterfall crash around the pretty facades of 19th-century hotels and restaurants, while fir forests rise on all sides and enfold the whole centre in a symphony of green. Of course, many head here for the fantastic skiing during the winter, while others will come in the footsteps of the Empress Sisi, in search of the bubbling spas and natural springs that first made the Gastein valley a major international destination.

14. Salzburg

No list of Austria’s must-see destinations could possibly be complete without a mention of Salzburg ; a melange of magical Baroque and medieval architecture that hits its stride with one chocolate box of a UNESCO-attested Old Town. It was here that Mozart found his romantic muse, here that Julie Andrews yodelled in the valleys; here that the Salzburger bishops raised the mighty Hohensalzburg Castle to command the salt-rich hillsides that roll out towards Bavaria in the distance. But it’s not all history either, because students now party away in Irish pubs along the banks of the Salzach, backpackers sip Stiegl in brewhouses and culture vultures come in their droves for opera, classical concerts and daily renditions of The Sound of Music!

15. The Wienerwald

One of the more off-the-beaten-track destinations to make this list of Austria’s must-sees, the Wienerwald lurks just on the peripheries of Vienna and represents one of the favoured outdoors spots for locals looking to escape the capital for a spell of hiking or biking. In all, the woods of the Wienerwald run for 45 kilometers from the Danube basin, rising in steps and becoming more rugged as they reach the Northern Limestone Alps and Upper Austria. The area is a beautiful patchwork of hornbeams and oaks, fir trees and spruce groves that plays host to wild pigs and oodles of walking trails to boot, not to mention some charming and untrodden villages and towns.

15 Best Places to Visit in Austria:

• Hochosterwitz Castle
• The Grossglockner
• Zell am See
• Bad Gastein
• The Wienerwald

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Austria Itinerary

Last Updated on February 20, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

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Planning out an Austria itinerary is one of the top things to do when visiting Central Europe. This beautiful country nestled between Germany, Switzerland , Italy , the Czech Republic , Slovenia , Hungary and Slovakia has a lot to offer beyond Vienna or Salzburg . And whether you have 5 or 7 days in Austria, you’re sure to have a blast exploring this gorgeous Central European nation.

From chic cities to charming villages, to gorgeous mountaintops to lovely lakes, Austria is a dynamic and interesting destination that is a joy to explore. Easy to navigate and filled with history, planning out the ideal trip to Austria is a treat.

So if you’re planning to spend a few days to a week in Austria, follow this itinerary to ensure you get a good feel for this country – though you may want to plan another trip in the future!

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Austria?

If you want to see more than the capital city and get to a couple of different places, then consider spending at least 5 days in Austria.

However, if you’re interested in digging deeper and visiting more than two different cities, then mapping out at least 7 days is going to be your best bet.

With a week in Austria, you have the opportunity to visit several different places, have the time to get to know some of the cities and also have the opportunity to explore some smaller towns and natural areas as day trips.

You also really can’t go wrong with spending 10 days in the country or more. With this amount of time, you don’t need to leave anything off of your itinerary and you will be able to spend time in some more far-flung places and areas a bit off the beaten tourist trail.

Getting To & Around Austria

Located in the centre of Europe, Austria — and, particularly, the capital of Vienna — is easy to reach from virtually all of Europe and many destinations further afield.

Vienna Airport is a large international airport that has countless flights to and from a myriad of countries and cities in the world, so arriving in Austria from abroad is not a problem.

Austria is also well-connected by rail and bus from nearby countries and cities. Vienna is directly connected to cities like Budapest , Prague , Munich and Ljubljana and many other smaller cities are also well-linked across the continent. You can view train schedules here.

Once in Austria, you have a few options when it comes to getting around. In the cities, plan to rely on getting from point A to B on foot or using the city’s public transit. Austrian cities are incredibly easy to navigate and there is no need to have a car while exploring.

You also can easily get between cities and major urban areas via both an extensive rail system and bus.

However, if you want to easily make stops between cities or would like to get out in nature, see the countryside and have some flexibility, it can be worth it to opt for a car rental and go for an Austrian road trip.

This will allow you to spend time in the Bavarian Alps, the Zillertal Alps and the town of Mayrhofn, the Danube Valley and drive along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

If you decide to hire a car while in Austria, you can compare prices across several major companies on Rentalcars.com.

One thing to note when driving in Austria is that you will need a vignette – or toll sticker. If you rent a car while in Austria already, this will be taken care of for you. However, you will need to purchase one upon crossing over from a neighbouring country.

5 to 7-Day Austria Itinerary

Day 1 – vienna.

The perfect place to begin any visit to Austria is in the capital city of Vienna . Often considered to be one of the most liveable cities in the world, Vienna is an absolutely beautiful city that is packed with history and interesting things to do.

Spend your first day in Vienna wandering around and taking in all of the top sites.

You can go on a walking tour to get your bearings before heading to sites like the Vienna Opera House, enjoying the art collections at the Albertina Museum or taking in the iconic attractions of the Spanish Riding School and the Sisi Museum at the Hofburg. End your day taking in the beautiful St Stephen’s Cathedral.

Vienna is also absolutely wonderful to simply wander around or to park yourself at one of its iconic cafes and enjoy a classic Viennese pastry and coffee. This is absolutely one of the best things to do.

Where to Stay in Vienna

Motel One Wien – Hauptbahnhof — This hotel is a fantastic accommodation option for those travelling on a mid-range budget in the Austrian capital. Located very close to Vienna’s main train station, they have several room sizes to choose from and an option to add breakfast each morning.

Hotel Brauhof Wien — Those after luxury in the Austrian capital will love this 4-star hotel. They have a range of beautiful, plush rooms to choose from and countless other amenities to ensure that your stay is an unforgettable one.

Hostel Ruthensteiner — This family-run hostel can be a fantastic option for both budget or solo travellers in Vienna. They have both private rooms and dorm beds available and several common areas and kitchen facilities that make it easy to meet other travellers in the city.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Vienna hotels!

Day 2 – Vienna

Day 2 of your Austria trip should still be spent in Vienna. As the capital and largest city in the country, there is a lot to do here and you definitely need at least two full days within the city itself to do it justice.

On your second day, it’s time to explore a bunch of sites that you didn’t get to the day before. These can include touring Schonbrunn Palace (you can book a guided tour here ), heading to Karlskirche or wandering around Schloss Belvedere.

Plan to spend your afternoon taking in the museums in the Museums Quartier, which includes places like the Leopold Museum and the Modern Art Museum.

Day 3 – Vienna

One of the benefits of spending 3 days in the Austrian capital is that you will have the time to go on a day trip from the capital. Because we’re exploring more of Austria itself if you’re spending 5 or 7 days in the country, this is a great time to take a day trip outside of Austria.

Heading to the Slovak capital of Bratislava is an excellent day trip option from Vienna.

Located only about an hour via train from the Austrian capital, Bratislava is an interesting place to spend a day and it is completely different from Vienna so you will get a good change of pace. You can go independently or organise a guided tour.

Bratislava’s compact nature means that it can easily be explored in just one day and it’s the perfect way to head outside of Austria during your trip to Austria!

Day 4 – Salzburg

After spending a few days in Vienna, the next stop on your itinerary through Austria should be the western city of Salzburg . Known for being the birthplace of Mozart and the filming location for the classic musical The Sound of Music , Salzburg is a lovely city to enjoy and no trip to Austria would be complete without visiting.

Though small in size, Salzburg has enough to offer visitors to merit spending 2 days here. So if you’re only planning for 5 days in Austria, this will be the final stop on your itinerary.

Spend your first day in Salzburg taking in the main sites of this beautiful city. In the morning, explore the old town, wander down Getreidegasse, browse through the stalls in the Grünmarkt, visit the Salzburg Cathedral and take in the views at Residenzplatz – Salzburg’s main square.

Later, head up to the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress and stroll along the walking trail on Monchsberg until you reach the Augustiner Brau Brewery, which is well-known for its classic and massive beer garden.

Where to Stay in Salzburg

Gästehaus im Priesterseminar – This guesthouse is an excellent option for mid-range visitors to Salzburg. They have a wonderful, centrally located in a beautiful baroque building and they have several lovely rooms on offer – perfect for exploring the city!

Boutique Hotel Auersperg – If you’re after a luxury option in Salzburg, you’re sure to love this boutique hotel in the centre of the city. It has been family-run for generations and it is located within spitting distance of all of Salzburg’s top sites. They have luxe rooms available and countless other amenities to ensure your stay is a great one.

Yoho International Youth Hostel – Budget and solo travellers will love this centrally located hostel. They have both private and dorm rooms available, good common areas and self-catering options and, for those who want it, they screen “The Sound of Music” every evening

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Salzburg hotels!

Day 5 – Salzburg

On the final day of your 5-day trip to Austria (or simply your final day in Salzburg if you’re planning on spending 7 days in Austria), plan to spend the day digging deeper and getting to know Salzburg just a bit better.

There is plenty to keep you occupied on your second day in Salzburg. Plan to spend your day wandering through the Mirabell Palace and Gardens, take in one or two of the city’s many museums and take a river cruise along the Salzach to see the city from a different perspective.

You can end your day in one of the city’s fine restaurants or even visit another beer garden to sample some great Austrian brews.

Day 6 – Gollinger Waterfall & Hallstatt

Treat day 6 as a travel day between Salzburg and Austria’s second-largest city of Graz. This day is best to do if you have a car, as it will give you the flexibility to make stops along the way and to enjoy the rural and natural side of Austria.

For those looking to get a bit active, then make your first stop en route to Graz be the Gollinger Waterfall. This waterfall is absolutely beautiful and there is a hiking trail that can take you around the falls and allow you to view it from different vantage points. The hike is pretty easy and it’s suitable for those of a moderate fitness level.

After enjoying the waterfall, drive a bit further to visit the iconic town of Hallstatt. This town is well-known on Instagram feeds and it is absolutely beautiful. However, it is also incredibly popular amongst international visitors and can be absolutely packed with tourists.

If you’re keen to avoid crowds and want a more laid-back alternative to Hallstatt, then consider making a trip to the town of St Gilgen on Wolfgansee, a large lake located a little bit closer to Salzburg.

For those who don’t have a car and are going this by public transport, it’s not going to make sense to stop at Hallstatt or the Gollinger waterfall. What you can do instead is spend your morning on a lovely day trip to St Gilgen and Wolfgangsee before taking an afternoon train from Salzburg to Graz.

End your day of exploration in the beautiful city of Graz.

Where to Stay in Graz

Schlossberghotel – Das Kunsthotel – This classic hotel is an excellent option for those looking for a great place to stay in Graz. They have a range of beautifully decorated rooms and it is filled with antiques and artwork. There are lots of rooms to choose from, a swimming pool, and plenty of other fantastic amenities.

Aiola Living Graz – This boutique hotel is a great option for visitors to Austria’s second city who are looking for a swish place to stay in the centre of town. They have clean, modern and comfortable rooms on offer and there is also an on-site fitness centre for guests to use at their leisure.

B&B Hotel Graz-Hbf – This hotel is a great option for those travelling in Austria and visiting Graz on a budget. They have a range of private rooms available and a great location close to the train station – perfect for exploring the city and for continuing on your trip in Austria. There is even an option to include breakfast.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Graz!

Day 7 – Graz

The final day of your 7-day Austria itinerary should be spent exploring the absolutely beautiful and charming city of Graz .

This city often gets overlooked when people plan trips to Austria and this is really a shame – it has quite a lot to offer and its compact size means that you don’t need to dedicate a lot of time to it.

Start your day at the Kaiser Josef Market before meandering over to the Grazer Burg where you can take in the fascinating double spiral staircase. Then, head over to the Graz Cathedral and tour this incredible structure before watching the clock chime and the interesting puppets at the city’s Glockenspiel.

Spend your afternoon up at Schlossberg, the castle hill that has incredible views over the city – it is accessible via funicular. Then, head over to the hip Lend area and, if you’re so inclined, visit the Kunsthaus – a modern art museum. If you’re more interested in history, then you could head to the Styrian armoury, instead.

End your day at one of Graz’s many phenomenal restaurants – and make sure to sample some of the great wines grown in the region!

Have More Time?

If you, for example, have 10 days in Austria or more, then the world is your oyster. For those who want to see more of this beautiful country, head to the west and make sure to explore the Tyrol region. The Alpine city of Innsbruck is infinitely popular and is a perfect getaway for those looking for an active holiday. From here, you can also visit the gorgeous glaciers at Dachstein.

If you’re interested in heading to some neighbouring countries, Slovenia is well-located and easy to get to from Graz. Consider spending heading to the city of Maribor before venturing onto Ljubljana (and beyond, if you have the time!).

There is a lot to see and do in and around Austria and it is likely impossible to plan a bad itinerary in this beautiful country. However, with the proper planning and knowledge, you can map out the absolutely perfect trip for you and your travel style.

Are you planning a trip to Austria? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Planning a Bratislava Day Trip from Vienna

The Perfect Day Trip to Salzburg from Vienna

The Perfect One Day in Graz Itinerary

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi, Amazing article, helps a lot!

I have more questions around sightseeing near Hallstatt and Salzburg- for eg- 5 fingers, lake wolfgangsee..what else can i explore on these lines? and any budget hostels to stay a night probably in or near Hallstatt?

would like to know about visiting Styria and Karnten

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Visit Austria: Top 20 Things to Do and Must See Attractions

The 20 best things to do in austria (bucket list).

You’re planning to visit Austria on your next trip and you’re looking for the best places to visit?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, i have prepared this guide of the 20 best things to do in Austria , with all the must-see attractions of the country.

Discover Vienna , the enchanting village of Hallstatt , the famous Tyrol region and many more amazing places to visit during your trip.

So, where to go in Austria? What are the best points of interest?

Let’s find out!

2. Salzburg

3. hallstatt, 4. innsbruck, 5. the swarovski crystal workshop, 6. the grossglockner road, 7. the eisriesenwelt cave, 8. krimml falls, 9. melk abbey, 11. the semmering railway, 12. the salzkammergut lakes, 13. admont abbey, 14. the dachstein massif and its suspension bridge, 16. st. florian monastery, 17. skiing in austria, 18. relaxing at a spa in austria, 19. attend a classical music concert, 20. minimundus, things to do in austria: the tourist map, you're traveling in austria these articles will help you, visit austria: the 20 best places to visit and must-see attractions.

In order to help you plan your stay in Austria, I have prepared a detailed on week itinerary. You should read it after reading this article.

You can find it here, simply click on the orange link to read the article:

• Itinerary: A week in Austria

It will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

And if you have any question, don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section, at the end of the article. I would be glad to help you plan your stay.

If you’re going to Austria , you need to visit Vienna , the capital.

Constantly rated as one of the most pleasant cities to live in , it’s also culturally prolific.

Vienna is THE city of museums , with more than a hundred to choose from! If you add to that lots of theaters, operas, palaces, and churches , you get one of the must-see destinations in this tourist guide to Austria .

Here are the best places to visit in Vienna:

• Schönbrunn Palace (get your tickets here!) , used as a summer residence by the Habsburg imperial family. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Hofburg Palace : the Habsburgs’ former winter residence now houses the Austrian president’s offices. A must to learn about the life of Empress Sisi .
• The MuseumQuartier , a district that covers over 60,000 square meters. There are some great (obviously) museums here, like the Leopold Museum and the Mumok .
• Belvedere Palace , where you’ll find works from Klimt, another world-renowned Austrian artist .
• St. Stephen’s Cathedral on the central square of Vienna.
• The Naschmarkt , Vienna’s biggest market.

You will find every information you need to visit Vienna in my article: The 20 Best Things to Do in Vienna .

UNESCO World Heritage Sites, museums, palaces, garden… Vienna is a super touristy city, so you will most likely have to wait in line to enter the city’s must-see attractions.

Hopefully, you can avoid that and save a lot of time (and money 😎 ) by buying the Vienna Pass.

It will allow you to skip the lines at all the major Vienna monuments!

You read that right, with this pass, you get fast-track access to over 70 sites and unlimited rides on the hop-on-hop-off bus.

Simply click the button below for all the details on the Vienna Pass:

Salzburg is another city you should visit during your trip to Austria .

The city is famous for being the birthplace of one of the most celebrated music composers in history: Mozart . In fact, Salzburg hosts one of the world’s largest classical music, opera, and theater festivals every year.

But no matter when you visit Austria, there are Mozart concerts happening all year round in various locations throughout Salzburg.

During your stay in Salzburg, make sure to visit:

• The Hohensalzburg Fortress (get skip-the-line tickets here!) overlooking the city, was built to protect the princes and archbishops from outside attacks.
• Mozart’s childhood home , where he was born in 1756 and spent his younger days. You’ll find it on Getreidegasse , number 9. The place is now a museum dedicated to the Austrian composer.
• Salzburg’s old town , a Unesco World Heritage Site (always a good tip for a place you don’t want to miss during your trip).
• The Mirabell Palace and its gorgeous garden with fountains and terraces.

Prepare your trip to Salzburg with our article, read it here: The 12 Must-Sees in Salzburg.

Hallstatt is an incredibly charming and picturesque village that is definitely worth a visit in Austria.

It has all the elements of a postcard-perfect setting, with its lake and surrounding mountains, narrow streets , flowered balconies , and a church reflecting in the lake’s waters.

No wonder it’s considered one of the most beautiful places in Austria and therefore very touristy all year round.

The village’s main attraction is its Skywalk , a panoramic platform perched above the void.

To access it, you’ll take a funicular from the bottom of the village. Once at the top, it’s simply stunning , especially if you’re afraid of heights like me! But the view is so breathtaking that it’s totally worth it!

It’s also in Hallstatt where you’ll find the world’s oldest salt mine , which you can still and should visit today.

This little village is an unavoidable part of your trip to Austria!

If you want to know everything about Hallstatt and prepare your trip, you should read my article: The 6 best things to do in Hallstat.

Innsbruck is the capital of one of Austria’s iconic regions: Tyrol . The city, in addition to being famous for its winter sports scene , has many other great things going for it, making it one of the must-see places in Austria.

The main tourist activity is the funicular that takes you to Hungerburg Station with its scenic and particularly “Instagrammable” views. The resort is also the starting point for a variety of hiking tours .

From Hungerburg , you can then take the cable car to the top of Hafelekar , the highest peak in the Nordkette Massif at 2,300 meters above sea level (me and my fear of heights…). Rest assured, once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning, awe-inspiring views !

You should book your tickets online by clicking here!

Awesome places you don’t want to miss in Innsbruck:

• Exploration of the historic center on pedestrian paths
• The little golden roof , “Goldenes Dachl” in german. A golden balcony built at the time of the emperor’s wedding that eventually became the emblem of the city.
• The Imperial Palace and its sumptuous ballroom.
• Ambras Castle , located on the heights of Innsbruck.

To visit Innsbruck during your road trip in Austria , buying the Innsbruck Card is a great idea.

It includes entrance to major tourist sites , a multi-stop bus tour , use of public transportation and a cable ride up/down.

Book your Innsbruck Card now by clicking on the button below:

Just 15 kilometers away from Innsbruck , in Wattens , is a very popular tourist site in Austria and the Tyrol region: the Swarovski Kristallwelten or in other words, The Swarovski Crystal Worlds .

To get into this underground museum , you’ll litteraly have to walk under the head of a giant of greenery built into the hillside. A green giant whose mouth spits out a waterfall. True story.

Inside, you will find 14 galleries called “Chambers of Wonders” that display the crystal through light effects and a very unique atmosphere. I promise that the experience will be brilliant!

As expected, you will find a Swarovski boutique at the end of the tour with a whole collection of jewelry and accessories.

Get your entrance tickets for the Crystal Worlds tour by clicking on the following button:

A great classic on an Austrian road trip is to take the Grossglockner road , in the Hohe Tauern national park . It’s a bit like the Austrian Route 66 (the chilly, heavily rotating version :p).

This mythical road connects the Salzburg region to Carinthia . Over exactly 48 km and with its 36 hairpin bends , it delivers exceptional panoramas of the entire mountain range.

The entire stretch of road has been landscaped to make the most of it with viewpoints , parking lots, restrooms, restaurants and information points. You can also enjoy hiking on one of the many trails while observing the life of the local inhabitants: very cute marmots and chamois !

This excursion will take you to the highest point of the park, the Kaiser-Franz-Josephs Höhe . Here you will get a breathtaking view of the Pasterze Glacier and the Grossglockner , the highest peak in Austria.

Note that the Grossglockner road is only accessible from May to November and that access to the road is chargeable, €35 for a car , regardless of the number of passengers.

It’s admittedly not cheap, but it’s an activity not to be missed in Austria and the expense is worth it when you consider the beauty of the scenery .

The official website of the Grossglockner route gives you all the details and allows you to buy your access ticket in advance (in various languages).

About fifty kilometers from Salzburg, in the Tennen massif, I warmly recommend you visit the Eisriesenwelt cave . Covering 42 kilometers in length, it is the largest accessible ice cave in the world and one of the main tourist attractions in Austria!

To get there, go to Wefen and follow the path to the visitor center parking lot. You will then have to ride the cable car and take a short walk to access the cave entrance.

Inside, pictures are not allowed and you will only have carbide lamps to give you light.

A unique opportunity to admire strange natural sculptures and magnificent ice palaces through the numerous chambers of the ice cave. Undoubtedly, it is one of the finest natural attractions to explore in the country.

You will find all the information to organize your visit to the Eisriesenwelt cave on the official website (in English). The caves are open to visitors from May to October only.

Let’s continue this Austrian travel guide with another natural delight you should not miss if you are in the region of Salzburg, the waterfalls of Krimml

Located in the Hohe Tauern National Park and standing 380 meters high , they are the highest waterfalls in Central Europe and the fifth largest in the world.

A well-designed 4-kilometer path, dotted with viewpoints at various levels, provides access to all 3 falls.

To reach the highest of the Krimml Falls it takes about 1 hour on foot, possibly more since the climb is a bit rough at the final tier.

If you feel like it, you can then keep hiking inside the national park on one of the many hiking trails.

The official website (in English) is right here. Access to the waterfalls available from mid-April to October.

Melk Abbey is one of the most illustrious abbeys in Austria . Home of monks of the Benedictine order for over 900 years, it was originally a fortified castle.

Built on a rocky hilltop above the Danube river , the abbey is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture. It is an impressive and grandiose edifice that still serves as a place of worship (did I say it was an abbey?) but it also doubles as a school with nearly 900 students.

Once inside, marvel at the church, the emperors’ staircase, and the imperial apartments transformed into a museum. However, the true gem of Melk Abbey is the monumental library , which greatly contributes to its prestigious reputation.

Outside the abbey is a lovely view of the Danube below and its surroundings, and a well-kept garden for strolling or even a picnic..

Conveniently located at approximately an hour by car from Vienna , it is a must-see during a stay in Austria.

Graz , capital of the province of Styria, is the second largest city in Austria .

I strongly recommend exploring this one-of-a-kind city , as it seamlessly blends ancient structures with futuristic architecture . An experience you won’t want to miss!

During your stay in the city, you will be able to see:

• The Schlossberg, a hill that offers an impressive view of the entire city of Graz. You’ll find a funicular that provides effortless access to the top but you can also walk to it if that’s your thing. It feels good, healthy and it warms you up!
• The Landeszeughaus where over 32,000 armor pieces are on display. An exceptional museum to visit and find yourself transported back to the days of knights and dragoons.
• The Joanneum Universal Museum which chronicles the history of this Austrian region.
• Hauptplatz , a cute looking plaza with its typical Austrian houses and plenty of (slightly less typical) food trucks to have a try at some Austrian delicacies. When it comes to testing culinary traditions, Voyage Tips is there and I do my job with passion!

If you want more details about the best things to do in Graz, Austria you should read my article: The 8 best things to do in Graz .

The Semmering Railway line that connects the towns of Gloggnitz and Mürzzuschlag since 1854 is a Unesco World Heritage site.

It is indeed the first ever mountain railway line built in Europe.

More than 20,000 workers were involved in the construction of the 16 viaducts, 15 tunnels and 100 bridges the line passes through. A true feat for the time!

The Semmering railway runs past the Austrian mountains all along its length and allows you to gaze at the stunning landscapes .

A most unusual activity that I highly recommend as it’s the best way to appreciate this sensational setting. Definitely one you should give a go during your stay in Austria .

The Salzkammergut region is famous for its numerous Alpine lakes making it one of the best spots to check out in Austria if you’re into hiking .

Packed with 76 dark green lakes and delightful villages nestled on the shores, the region features some of Austria’s most beautiful scenery. The village of Hallstatt and its lake I mentioned earlier is actually one of them.

These are my top picks of the most beautiful lakes to see in the Salzkammergut region :

• Lake Atter , (Kammersee in german) the largest in Austria.
• Lake Traunsee with equipped bathing areas, ideal for swimming.
• Lake Irrsee , one of the hottest in Austria. Water temperature can rise up to 27° C!
• Lake Mondsee , pretty well equipped and offering a wide range of water activities such as sailing or water skiing.
• Lake Wolfgang (Wolfgangsee in german) also well equipped and offers a boat rental service.

Admont Abbey is one of the oldest monasteries ever built and is home to the largest monastic library in the world . Two excellent reasons to go check it out if you plan on visiting Austria!

A good number of the nearly 200,000 books from around the world that reside there, such as Diderot and d’Alembert’s Encyclopedia or Martin Luther’s Bible , are extremely rare and valuable historical testimonies. Also featured is an important collection of manuscripts dating back to the medieval period .

Built in the typical Rococo architecture , the edifice, in addition to being the largest monastic library in the world, is also magnificent. The marble floor is surmounted by 7 domes adorned with beautiful frescoes.

Its proportions: 79 meters long , 14 meters wide and 13 meters high are staggering.

The library has been undergoing a 4-year renovation and now welcomes many visitors. If you want to take pictures inside, note that there is an extra charge added to the price of the visit. Definitely worth discovering during your travel to Austria.

To get on with sightseeing in Austria , I now suggest an activity suitable for the most adventurous among you that are not afraid of heights.

Within the impressive Dachstein Massif , you have the opportunity to embrace both elevation and vastness by traversing Austria’s highest suspension bridge .

Soaring 400 meters above the ground and playfully nicknamed the “ Stairway to Nothingness “, this 100-meter-long bridge is an absolute must for adrenaline enthusiasts.

After successfully crossing the bridge, you’ll encounter another thrilling challenge: descending onto the transparent glass platform via a staircase consisting of 14 steps. From there, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking 360-degree panoramic view of the magnificent Austrian Alps . Keep going, you’re almost there! You’ve come this far, and the stunning scenery awaits!

To reach the suspension bridge, you need to go through the Dachstein scenic route to reach the cable car station … that will take you to the start of the Skywalk .

For adrenaline junkies, here’s a small list of other scenic platforms that are popping up everywhere in Austria . As a matter fo fact they’re actually popping up all around the world. If you’re that type of traveller, it’s guaranteed thrills !

• Triassic Park
• Top of Tyrol
• Top Mountain Star
• Adlehorst with the added option of a 600-meter zip line descent
• Pyramidenkogel whose tower includes the highest indoor slide in Europe.

After Vienna and Graz, comes Linz , the capital of the Upper Austria Lander and the third most populated city. It is obviously part of our top things to see in Austria.

It’s a particularly modern and contemporary city.

You’ll be able to visit the Lentos Museum , a contemporary art museum and the ARS Electronica Center , an interactive museum focused on electronic technology where you’ll get to do lots of cool science experiments.

Linz also has a very nice historical center with its central square, typical facades , renaissance buildings and many cafes and restaurants to stop by and relax.

Also worth checking out in Linz is the New Cathedral (Mariendom in german). It’s the largest in Austria , it can fit nearly 20,000 visitors . I recommend you go up to the top of the bell tower for an overview of the entire city.

If you want to know everything about Linz and prepare your trip, you should read my article: The 10 best things to do in Linz .

If you are still wondering what to see in Austria , after Melk Abbey and Admont Abbey, you should go take a look at St. Florian Monastery .

It is the largest Baroque abbey in the Upper Austria Länder and one of the oldest still active. The abbey is dedicated to Saint Florian, a christian martyr said to protect against fires and floods, and is governed by the Order of Saint Augustine.

It is also known for hosting and educating what you could call an institution in Austria; the St. Florian Boys’ Choir . They’re famous all over Europe, even going on international tours.

Inside the monastery, 2 artefacts are a must-see: the Bruckner organ with its 7,343 pipes and the huge, richly decorated library holding 150,000 books .

I’m sure you were asking yourself “Did he forget about it?”. Come on! I wouldn’t be talking about the top things to do in Austria if I forgot about the national sport: skiing !

So sure, if you’ve decided to go to Austria in winter, you can obviously go skiing . You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to resorts: quiet and family-friendly or trendy and posh, you can do it the way you want it.

It is in the Tyrol region that you will find the majority of ski resorts and the largest ski areas in Austria.

The biggest ones are Mayrhofen, Kitzbuehel, and Arlberg . All told, the 10 largest resorts total nearly 1,900 kilometers of trail , enough for some serious amount of skiing.

After effort comes comfort… or party! If you’re looking for the trendy version of a ski resort, Ischgl is the place to go. Not exactly your typical family resort, it’s also known as the “Ibiza of the Alps” .

If you find yourself at the ski resort of Wildkogel , you just have to try out the world’s longest slide . With a 1,300 meter drop and 14 kilometers long, it takes 30-50 minutes to get down. An ideal break between 2 skiing sessions.

Another essential activity you have to try during your tour of Austria and especially after long days of sightseeing, is to take a quick trip to one of the numerous spas in the country.

Austria has indeed many water sources with therapeutic properties .

The most renowned of the Austrian spas:

• The Aqua Dome and its flying saucer-shaped pools
• The Alpentherme Ehrenberg and its 6 saunas, each of wich comes with a different atmosphere
• The Alpentherme Gastein with its slide area for children
• The Therme Laa Spa and its 60,000 square meters dedicated to relaxation.

Voyage Tips - Advice Don't be too prudish if you want to enjoy the saunas in Austria, most of them don't allow bathing suits. Yes, you know exactly what "no bathing suit" means.

Mozart was born there . What is a trip to Austria without a classical music concert ? A mistake you will not make.

In addition to Mozart, Vienna is one of the birthplace of classical music , so you'll have no trouble finding a live performance that appeals to you, from the extensive range of choices. There are over 15,000 music-related events each year.

The most mythical venue in Vienna to hear a concert is the Musikverein, internationally known for the Golden Hall and its an extraordinary acoustic quality.

You can book your tickets to attend a Mozart tribute concert at the Musikverein by clicking here!

It also hosts the New Year's Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra every year. Broadcast live on TV all over the world, tickets are sold out one year in advance!

Other venues such as Schönbrunn Palace , Auersperg Palace and Karlskirche also host a variety of concerts (at also a variety of prices) that you can enjoy during your stay in Austria.

You can check out this neat website showing, listed by venue (including the Musikverein), all the concerts and live performances held in Vienna. For each concert you will also be able to check the prices (starting at €50 for the cheapest seats).

Finally I'll wrap up this top 20 things to do and see in Austria, with an activity that will appeal to both adults and kids.

While in Austria, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Minimundus Park .

This vast park exhibits nearly 150 scale models (1/25 scale) of the most famous monuments around the world. You will find the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, the Taj Mahal and many more (about 147 more).

Interesting tidbit: the replica of St. Peter's Basilica in Rome was built in 6 years , using the same marble that was used for the real one! And it actually cost them €730,000 to make!

A very pleasant family excursion in Austria that will let you tour the world in half a day .

Prepare for your visit to Minimundus via the official website .

Just to help you visualize the country a little more clearly, I've made you an Austria sightseeing map listing the places to check out that I mention in this top 20 things to do in Austria. You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow at the top left corner.

If you need help to plan your trip to Austria, don't hesitate to ask me in the comments section below.

Discover all my articles about Austria : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Austria are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to Do in Austria : all best places to visit and activities
• Itinerary: One week in Austria - The perfect itinerary for your 7-8 days trip to Austria
• Graz: TOP 10 best places to visit
• Hallstatt: TOP 6 things to do during your stay
• Innsbruck: The 15 best things to do and see
• Linz: TOP 12 places to visit and must-see attractions
• Salzburg: The 17 best things to do
• Vienna: TOP 25 tourist attractions  

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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The best times to visit Austria: when to go for snow, sunshine, Strauss concerts and more

Oct 26, 2021 • 4 min read

Vienna’s annual Christmas market © posztos/Shutterstock

Majestic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, cultural treasures and famous sights inspire millions to explore Austria every year.

While crowds flock to the Central European country for summer fun and ski getaways, the country’s full range of wellness options, an excellent nationwide network of cycling and hiking trails and an always-packed calendar of cultural events are available year-round. Whether you prefer hiking through  the Alps , sitting through hours of Mozart and Strauss concerts or anything in between, here are our tips for the best time to travel to Austria.

High Season: June–August 

Best time for festival lovers 

Austria’s summer months are typically dry and hot. July sees high-season heat sitting in over the urban areas, with fresher air and lower temperatures the higher you get in the Austrian Alps. August is usually milder, if more humid. 

Prices rise as schools across Europe end their terms, bringing hordes of holiday-hungry families to the countryside. Perhaps the pinnacle of the world’s classical-music circuit, the Salzburger Festspiele , takes place every July and August, making stays in and around Salzburg and even Vienna an expensive proposition.

Shoulder Season: April–May, September–October

Best time for wellness aficionados and active adventure holidaymakers

Spring and autumn tend toward the mild and dry – particularly as the effects of climate change add more days of sunshine but little additional rain. The conditions are perfect for hiking, biking or climbing. Weaker thermals and valley winds also make autumn an ideal time for paragliding. 

Even when the skies open, Austria’s cities offer opera and theater programs, museums and exhibitions provide plenty of indoor fun. As the peak season crowds ebb, accommodation becomes more affordable while service standards remain high.  

Low Season: November–March 

Best time for winter sports enthusiasts  

Bringing plenty of snow, Austrian winters are cold, with temperatures often below 0° celsius. Hotels, boarding houses and spas in the skiing regions are in full swing, as winter sports fans from all over Europe arrive for the state-of-the-art cable cars, rustic ski huts and excellent slope conditions. 

During the height of the season in December and January, you can expect Alp-high prices, with après-ski bars and restaurants packed.

Gliding down the slopes or shaking a leg as the dance-party season begins helps visitors keep warm during the coldest winter days.

Key events: Vienna Philharmonic New Year’s Concert, Hahnenkamm Races, Ski Jumping Four Hills Tournament

As Lent starts in this Catholic country, the calendar eases a bit until Easter. As temperatures still hover around freezing point, spa lovers warm up in the sauna or steam room.

Key event : Vienna Opera Ball

Good snow conditions, rising temperatures and dwindling overnight numbers make spring the best time for winter sports fans to visit the Austrian Alps on a budget, as end-of-season bargains become available.

Key events : Vienna Blues Spring, FotoWien , ART Vienna

The onset of spring brings a sea of ​​flowers, sports and outdoor events. Unsettled weather, with alternating rain and sunshine, calls for a flexible program.

Key events : Wachau Gourmet Festival, Südsteiermark-Classic Vintage Car Race, Vienna City Marathon

It’s time to dust off the hiking boots and get the bike out. The month’s second half brings calmer and warmer weather, with temperatures often reaching 20°C (68°F).

Key events : Wiener Festwochen, Gauder Fest (traditional costume festival), Narcissi Festival

The open-air music and art festival season commences. Temperatures between 20 to 25°C (68 to 77°F) bring the chance for a dip in one of Austria’s  25,000 bodies of water .

Key events : Danube Island Festival, Nova Rock Festival, Vienna Pride

Hold onto your ice cream cone and expect long lines at famous attractions including Vienna’s Schönbrunn Castle, Innsbruck’s Golden Roof or Salzburg’s Mozart Residence.

Key events : Bregenz Festival , Tour of Austria, Austrian Grand Prix

Performing-arts festivals continue throughout the month. Expect thunderstorms and beware that the Styria and Tyrol provinces  have some of the highest number of lightning strikes anywhere in Europe.  

Key events : Salzburg Festival , International Jazzfestival Saalfelden, Mountainbike-Festival

Mild and warm days mean the golden autumn and harvest season have started. As the number of daylight hours decreases, so do the crowds of visitors.

Key events : HayART Festival, Mörbischer Vintage Festival

The temperatures continue to drop, with the first overnight frosts appearing in the mountains. Although the event calendar slows, a mix of indoor and outdoor adventures nonetheless awaits.

Key events : Vienna International Film Festival , Long Night of the Museums, Erste Bank Open

Cold and damp, this month attracts few crowds to Austria’s many royal palaces, museums and art galleries.  It may be the best time to visit Vienna and Salzburg on a shoestring budget.    

Key events : Festival Wien Modern , Vienna Art Week

Advent and Christmas markets selling arts and crafts ring in a festive season. As the temperature can drop below zero, roasted chestnuts and steaming mulled wine help warm up cold hands and frozen feet.

Key events : Christkindlmarkt on the Rathausplatz , Salzburger Christkindlmarkt, Tirol Festival Erl

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Austria

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 21, 2024

Austria, one of Europe's most popular holiday destinations, attracts tourists year-round with places to visit in both summer and winter. In fact, with some of Europe's finest skiing , winter is almost as busy as summer in the country's spectacular mountain regions.

Visitors are drawn as much for the scenic beauty of this Alpine republic's provinces as they are for splendid cities like Vienna (Wien), the historic capital, and beautiful Salzburg , birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.

One of Europe's smallest countries, Austria is predominantly a nation of upland areas and high mountains, with the Eastern Alps occupying a good 60 percent of its territory. The River Danube flows for about 350 kilometers from west to east through the northern part of the country, adding to its allure as a tourist destination.

Find the best sightseeing opportunities and things to do with this list of the top tourist attractions in Austria.

1. The Vienna Hofburg: Austria's Imperial Palace

2. salzburg altstadt, a unesco world heritage site, 3. the spanish riding school, vienna, 4. schönbrunn palace, vienna, 5. innsbruck's hofburg and hofkirche, 6. melk benedictine abbey, 7. hallstatt and the dachstein salzkammergut, 8. skiing at kitzbühel and kitzbüheler horn, 9. belvedere palace, vienna, 10. medieval burg hochosterwitz, 11. the grossglockner road to franz-josefs-höhe, 12. st. stephen's cathedral in vienna, 13. klosterneuburg abbey and the verdun altar, 14. maria saal cathedral, 15. krimmler ache: austria's tallest waterfalls, 16. eisriesenwelt: the world of the ice giants, 17. the styrian armoury (landeszeughaus), 18. old town innsbruck & the golden roof, map of tourist attractions in austria, best time to visit austria.

The spectacular Hofburg Palace in Vienna was for centuries the seat of Austria's monarchy, the powerful Habsburgs. Visiting this palace is one of the top things to do in Austria .

Now the President conducts state business in the same rooms that once belonged to Emperor Joseph II. Nearly every Austrian ruler since 1275 ordered additions or alterations, resulting in many different architectural influences, including Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, Rococo, and Classicism.

Together with its many attractive squares and gardens, the entire Hofburg complex occupies 59 acres encompassing 19 courtyards and 2,600 rooms. Highlights of a visit include the Imperial Silver Collection and an array of dining services giving a taste of the lavish imperial banquets that once took place here.

Also worth seeing are the Sisi Museum , focusing on the life and times of Empress Elisabeth, and the Imperial Apartments , a series of 19 rooms once occupied by Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife.

Address: Michaelerkuppel, 1010 Vienna

As the residence of Prince Archbishops, Salzburg was a spiritual center from the earliest days of Christianity in Europe. The Benedictine Abbey of St. Peter, in the heart of the Altstadt (Old Town) was founded by St. Rupert in AD 690 and served as the residence of the Archbishops until the early 1100s.

The Prince Archbishops employed some of the finest artists and architects of their times to build and decorate their churches, residences, and monasteries, and although these have been "updated" in the tastes of successive centuries, the medieval and Baroque buildings combine to form a beautiful old quarter to explore.

Highlights are St. Peter's Abbey and its church, along with the beautiful cemetery and its catacombs, instantly recognizable as a filming site for The Sound of Music .

Nearby is the cathedral, and wandering among its colorful Baroque burgher houses, you'll find charming squares and attractions that include the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, now a museum. Above the beautiful spires and cupolas soars Salzburg's castle of Hohensalzburg, which you can reach by a funicular.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Salzburg

The Spanish Riding School dates back to the time of Emperor Maximilian II, the man responsible for introducing the famous Lipizzaner horses into Austria in 1562.

Today, it's one of the only places where the classical style of riding preferred by aristocracy is still practiced. Viewing the famous equestrian displays in the Baroque Winter Riding School – held here since the time of Charles VI – is one of the top things to do in Vienna .

Built in 1735, the magnificent hall was designed for the nobility to demonstrate their riding skills. Tickets to watch these magnificent animals perform their ballet are highly sought after, so book online as far in advance as possible.

Address: Michaelerplatz 1, 1010 Vienna

Located on Vienna's outskirts, the Baroque Schönbrunn Palace was completed in the early 1700s and was later converted into a summer residence by Empress Maria Theresa.

Highlights of a tour through the 40 rooms of the palace that are open to the public are the Royal apartments, the Great Gallery with its ornate ceiling paintings, the Million Room, and Maria Theresa's salon with its carved and gilded rosewood panels. You'll also see the spectacular Hall of Mirrors, with its gold Rococo-framed mirrors. Behind the 1,441-room palace stretch 500 acres of parks and gardens, also in the 18th-century Baroque style.

Your visit to Schönbrunn should include the many attractions spread throughout these grounds: formal gardens; a labyrinth; the Palm House, filled with tropical and exotic plants and butterflies; an Alpine garden with a farmhouse; Europe's oldest zoo; and the Classical Gloriette, a grand marble structure crowning a hill above the gardens.

A carriage museum in the former Winter Riding School displays dozens of historical state coaches and sleighs. The entire palace and gardens complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Address: Schönbrunner Schloßstraße 47, 1130 Vienna

The Emperor Maximilian I, who reigned in the late 1400s and early 1500s, made Innsbruck the main residence and the seat of the Hapsburg government and, as a result, a focal point of Europe. His palace, the Hofburg, was remodeled by Empress Maria Theresa in 18th-century Baroque and Rococo styles. Highlights of a tour are the chance to view the sumptuous royal apartments, the marble Giant Hall (Riesensaal), and the painted ceilings throughout.

The highlight of the Hofkirche, or Court Church, is the spectacular Tomb of Emperor Maximilian I, who died in 1519. Widely considered the finest work of German Renaissance sculpture, the monument's central feature is the massive black marble sarcophagus with a bronze figure of the Emperor. On the sides of the sarcophagus are 24 marble reliefs depicting events in the Emperor's life, and around it stand 28 larger-than-life-size bronze statues of the Emperor's ancestors and contemporaries (look out for King Arthur).

Other pieces of sculpture include 23 bronze statues of saints from the Habsburg family and 20 bronze busts of Roman emperors.

Address: Rennweg 1/3, 6020 Innsbruck

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Innsbruck & Easy Day Trips

Melk Abbey is one of the world's most famous monastic sites, and its spectacular buildings are laid out around seven courtyards. The most prominent part of this massive 325-meter-long complex is the west end and its twin-towered church rising above a semicircular terrace range.

Perched on a rocky outcrop high above the town of Melk and overlooking the Danube, the abbey contains numerous other great reasons to spend a few hours touring it. These include the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau; the remains of Austria's first ruling family; the House of Babenberg; and the superb 196-meter-long Imperial Corridor with its portraits of Austria's rulers, including one of the Empress Maria Theresa.

Along the way, you'll also see the Imperial Rooms with their displays relating to the abbey's history, along with statues and paintings.

Address: Abt-Berthold-Dietmayr-Straße 1, 3390 Melk

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melk

Hallstatt is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque small towns in Austria, if not Europe. It's also a good place from which to explore the spectacular Dachstein Salzkammergut region, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The beautiful Baroque architecture testifies to Hallstatt's wealth, which is based on its long history of salt production from prehistoric times.

You can also visit the underground salt lake in the nearby Hörnerwerk cavern, or explore the Dachstein Caves , one of Europe's most impressive cavern networks, which are, in places, up to 1,174 meters deep. Highlights include the Giant Ice Cave , with its sub-zero summer temperatures and huge caverns with magnificent frozen waterfalls, and the Mammoth Cave , with its huge pipe-shaped galleries formed by an ancient underground river.

Above ground, visitors can tackle the superb 5 Fingers viewing platform, an incredible metal structure hanging over a 400-meter sheer drop with excellent views of the surrounding Alps.

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Hallstatt and along the Hallstätter See

One of the best places to ski in Austria , the famed resort town of Kitzbühel spoils snow lovers with its 170 kilometers of skiable pistes and slopes dotted with little mountain huts, where they can stop for traditional Alpine snacks and warming drinks.

Although it's the site of the annual Hahnenkamm, the toughest of all downhill ski races, Kitzbühel has plenty of terrain for all skill levels in its three skiing areas, and the smallest of these, Bichlalm, is dedicated to freeriders.

But Kitzbühel is not just for skiers. With its walls and frescoed houses, and snow-covered Alps for a backdrop, the town is as pretty as Alpine villages get.

The 1,998-meter Kitzbüheler Horn that delights skiers in the winter is a favorite for mountain hikers in the summer, and you can also reach the summit by cable car via the Pletzeralm. It's considered one of the finest summit views in the Tyrol: to the south from the Radstädter Tauern to the Ötztal Alps; to the north, the nearby Kaisergebirge; to the west, the Lechtal Alps; and to the east, the Hochkönig.

To the south of the Kitzbüheler Horn rises the 1,772-meter-high Hornköpfli, also reached by cableway. In addition to the great views, on the summit, you'll find the Gipfelhaus, a unique mountaintop home; a chapel; a restaurant; and an Alpine garden.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kitzbühel & Easy Day Trips

Another of Austria's most-visited palaces – and one that should definitely be included on your Vienna travel itinerary – is the spectacular Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere). Referred to most often simply as "The Belvedere," this important historic site is split into two major sections: the Upper (Oberes) and Lower (Unteres) Palaces.

If you've only got time to explore one, make it the Upper Palace . Here, you'll find the largest portion of the attraction's impressive collection of artworks, as well as have the chance to view one of the country's best preserved architectural gems. Highlights include Sala Terrena, the main hall, notable for its statues and stucco vaulted ceiling; the Carlone Hall, with its ceiling fresco; the two-story Marble Hall, with its many sculptures and paintings; and the impressive Ceremonial Staircase.

The Lower Palace is no less worthy of a visit. Highlights include the Marble Gallery, with its collection of statues; the Grotesque Hall, with its numerous fine wall paintings; and a second Marble Hall, this one known for its fascinating ceiling fresco.

If you're here for the day (you should plan on it!), the palace boasts a great café and restaurant, three shops, and a great Christmas Market for those traveling in the winter months.

Address: Prinz Eugen-Straße 27, 1030 Vienna

• Read More: Exploring Vienna's Belvedere Palace: A Visitor's Guide

To the east of St. Veit , on a crag rising some 160-meters above the valley, sprawls the imposing Burg Hochosterwitz, Austria's most important medieval castle. After a turbulent history, the castle-first mentioned in 860 AD-was captured by the Khevenhüllers, and was enlarged in 1570 in the face of Turkish invaders. Never captured by a foe, the castle has remained in the Khevenhüller family since.

The steep access road to the castle, the Burgweg, winds its way up through the 14 defensive gates to the beautiful arcaded courtyard where you'll find the little chapel with its wall and ceiling paintings from 1570 and the church at the southwestern end of the castle with its high altar dating from 1729.

Address: Hochosterwitz 1, 9314 Launsdorf

The Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse from Bruck, in the Pinzgau, to Heiligenblut, at the foot of the Grossglockner, was constructed between 1930 and 1935. Following the route of an old Roman road, it is one of the most magnificent mountain roads in Europe .

Although its importance as a route through the Alps has declined, it's still a splendid highway through the Hohe Tauern, Austria's highest mountain massif and one of the country's outstanding attractions. Running for 22 kilometers through the mountains at an altitude of more than 2,000 meters, the road consists of a long succession of turns leading up to the summit tunnel on the Hochtor at 2,506 meters and then down into the valley on the far side.

The road is the access to the massive Hohe Tauern mountain range, where Franz-Josefs-Höhe is famous across Europe for its spectacular views. Named after a visit paid by Kaiser Franz-Josef in 1856, this wonderful vantage point stands 2,422 meters above sea level and offers incredible vistas of the surrounding country. Prominent in the view is the Grossglockner which, at 3,798 meters, is Austria's highest mountain.

Be sure to stop at the visitor center for its detailed displays relating to the area's history, as well as exhibits focusing on its glaciers and general tourist information.

Official site: www.grossglockner.at/gg/en/index

The imposing Gothic cathedral of St. Stephen's (Stephansdom) is a landmark inside Vienna's old city center. The original 12th-century Romanesque church was replaced in the 13th century by a Late Romanesque church, of which the massive gate and the Heathen Towers (Heidentürme) survive.

The later Gothic reconstruction in the 14th century added the choir and the Chapels of St. Eligius, St. Tirna, and St. Catherine, and in the following century, the famous 137-meter-high South Tower (Steffl) was constructed. After significant damage in World War II, the church was rebuilt.

The views from the Watch Room at the top of the Steffl are worth climbing its 343 steps, but you can take an elevator to a viewing platform on the North Tower, home to the massive Pummerin Bell. You won't want to miss the 14th-century catacombs and the cathedral treasury, where some of the cathedral's most important objects are displayed.

Address: Stephansplatz 3, 1010 Vienna

• Read More: Exploring St. Stephen's Cathedral, Vienna

A flight of steps in lovely Klosterneuburg Abbey leads down to the 12th-century St. Leopold's Chapel where Leopold III is buried. It's also where you'll find the famous Verdun Altar. Perhaps the finest existing example of medieval enamel work, the altar consists of 51 panels of champlevé work on gilded copper depicting Biblical scenes by Nicholas of Verdun from around 1181.

Originally on the reading pulpit of the former Romanesque church, the panels were put together to form the present winged altarpiece after a fire in 1329. Four painted panels affixed to the altar in 1331 and the oldest in Austria-they were painted in Vienna before 1329-are now in the Abbey Museum.

Address: Stiftsplatz 1, 3400 Klosterneuburg

The Church of Maria Saal-more often than not referred to as Maria Saal Cathedral-is perched on a hill high above the Zollfeld and is one of the leading places of pilgrimage in the state of Carinthia in southern Austria. It was here around 750 AD that Bishop Modestus consecrated a church from which the surrounding area was Christianized.

The present twin-towered church was built in Gothic style in the first half of the 15th century on the foundations of a Roman basilica and was remodeled during the Renaissance and Baroque periods.

Highlights include the west facade with twin towers and its fine old gravestones. Particularly interesting are the 16th-century Keutschach Epitaph depicting the Coronation of Our Lady, and a Roman stone relief from around AD 300.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Klagenfurt & Easy Day Trips

The Krimmler Ache plunges 380 meters in three tremendous cascades and makes for an excellent excursion from the nearby village of Krimml. At an altitude of 1,076 meters, Krimml-perched high above the Salzachtal in a wooded valley-is a wonderful place to stop for a few days if you're into hiking.

In addition to various excellent walks to the waterfalls, there's a rewarding climb to the Schettbrücke and continuing to the spectacular Krimmler Tauernhaus. From here, expert climbers can tackle the 2,911-meter-high Glockenkarkopf on the Italian frontier.

Found on the western edge of the Tennengebirge, the spectacular World of the Ice Giants is the largest system of ice caves in the world. Covering some 30,000 square meters, the caves were carved by an underground river in the Tertiary period. Discovered in 1879, they were opened to the public in 1912, and to date, an amazing 45 kilometers of the network has been explored.

After winding along the Great Ice Wall, you'll be confronted by the massive Hymir Hall with its impressive ice formations and icicles. Stone steps lead to the Eistor, or Ice Gate, a spectacular 1,775-meter-high wall of ice, and the great Ice Palace. Conducted tours last two hours, and the trip to and from the caves takes a few hours, so expect to spend the best part of a day exploring the area.

In the heart of Graz is the Landeszeughaus, the Styrian Arsenal. Built in 1644, the building houses a spectacular collection of completely preserved 17th-century arms and armor-enough, in fact, to arm 32,000 men, including helmets and weaponry.

While in Graz, you should also visit the Landhaus . Built in Renaissance style in 1557-65, its main facade is dominated by rounded windows and a veranda. The lovely arcaded courtyard has three-storied pergolas on two sides and a Renaissance fountain, while in the Knights' Hall there's a splendid stucco ceiling from 1746.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Graz & Easy Day Trips

The beautiful Austrian city of Innsbruck is not only home to some of the country's best preserved architecture, it's also home to some of the most unusual and unique historic buildings. Perhaps the best known of Innsbruck's points of interest is the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl).

This relic from the city's rich Hapsburg past is located in the heart of Innsbruck Old Town (Altstadt), and adorns a Late Gothic oriel window of a former palace, the Neuer Hof, which was used by royalty. You can't miss this perfect selfie spot as you wander along the arcaded Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse. If you time it right (when the sun shines), the roof really does appear to glow.

Consisting of no less than 2,657 gilded copper tiles, the Golden Roof dates back to 1496, when it was added to the building to mark the marriage of Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I, and served as a royal box, so the couple could enjoy the celebrations in the square to mark the occasion. After taking some pics, be sure to visit the Golden Roof Museum that deals with the Emperor's lasting legacy.

Be sure to spend some time wandering the winding, narrow, streets and alleys around this iconic Innsbruck attraction. In addition to the many fine old buildings here, you'll also enjoy great vistas of the many mountains that surround this beautiful Austrian city.

Address: Herzog-Friedrich-Straße 15, 6020 Innsbruck

Cities or countryside? Skiing or hiking? Your plans will determine when is the best time of the year to visit Austria.

Spring: Spring can be chilly in Austria, with temperatures in the 10 to 15 degrees Celsius range in cities and much lower in the mountains. Because the season is short and only truly lasts two months (April and May), most avid outdoor enthusiasts take full advantage of it by heading to the mountains, picnicking near lakes, and discovering small towns full of history and heritage. Although spring sees lots of sunshine, the weather is also highly unpredictable, meaning you should carry an umbrella, especially during the month of April.

One of the best places to visit in Austria in April and May is the Lienz Dolomites. Hiking in this area is very popular because there are options for all levels of experience and fitness. Experienced hikers can find both short and long-distance trails, including multiple-day hikes like the Long Törlweg hike, which takes several days and requires stays in one of the alpine huts, and ups and downs across six summits with stunning panoramic views over the snowcapped peaks.

Summer: Summer is high season in Austria , with temperatures usually in the low to mid-20s Celsius, plenty of sunshine, and crisp evenings perfect for a stroll through the many picturesque towns. Flocks of tourists head to Austria during this season, which results in expensive flights, overbooked hotels, and higher prices everywhere you go.

On the plus side, the sky remains blue, and the air is filled with the smell of flowering meadows. There's no better time to photograph the Alps than in summer, as the visibility is excellent, and the snowcapped mountains can be seen from very far away.

June is the wettest of all warm months but also the one with the most festivals, including the Midsummer Night Celebration, which includes bonfires lit under the light of the moon. July brings the best weather of the Austrian summer — it's mostly dry, it's not scorching hot, and you'll get plenty of sunshine.

August heats up significantly , so it's a favorite time among Austrians to go swimming. Lake destinations such as Lake Plansee and Lake Hallstatt are very crowded and very expensive, and hotels are often booked a year in advance.

Fall: September and October are chilly in Austria but still not cold, with temperatures very similar to spring, except that while spring is rainy and unpredictable, autumn is actually drier and with clear skies . This is the season for cycling tours, hiking, and boating, as the trees are changing into shades of reds and yellow, and the valleys and mountains are stunning everywhere.

If you arrive in early September, you'll get warmer temperatures but without the summer crowds, as everybody is heading back home for school and work. November, though technically part of autumn, can be very cold, with temperatures in the low single digits.

Winter: Winter is technically low season in Austria, as long as you stick to the cities or even small mountain towns-the best time to go to Austria if you're looking for discounts and deals on hotels and flights . Because Austria is a major skiing destination, however, don't expect prices to go down if you're heading to the Alps or have an active outdoorsy vacation planned.

The winter season in Austria starts in November and lasts until March, with temperatures regularly in the minus because of the proximity to the Alps. The air is chilly, even when the sun is out, and snowfall is common and can be very abundant . The weeks surrounding Christmas and New Year's are busy, crowded, and much more expensive.

More on Austria

Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria

In addition to the fresh mountain air and idyllic scenery, the European country is home to culturally sophisticated cities, quirky places, and breathtaking architecture! I’m personally a huge fan, and from my time spent exploring this refined and picturesque country, here are my favourite spots…

As the capital, Vienna is perhaps the city most associated with Austrian life, but I think that doesn’t make it any less attractive. Every time I visit, the elegant city is buzzing with excitement—street theatre, ballets, operas, musicals, art galleries, and shows make it a dynamic and lively city to explore! 

But I love that this modern flavor doesn’t detract from the tradition in this splendid city. There are several imperial palaces, some stunning museums that proudly overlook majestic squares, and I would highly recommend visiting Hofburg the once impressive home of the Habsburg rulers.

In my opinion, this fusion of fast-paced modern living and serene historical architecture makes Vienna a truly spectacular city and I think you’ll fall in love with it like I did! 

My must-do highlights

• The city has a musical heritage like no other, so try to watch a concert in Vienna. Catch a performance at the Golden Hall or in one of their beautiful historic churches for an exquisite and cultured experience.
• Visit the world-famous Schönbrunn Palace , a Cultural World Heritage Site and the country’s most frequently visited tourist attraction.
• Marvel at the Rathaus Vienna/City Hall, a beautiful and instantly recognizable neo-gothic building that overlooks the Christmas market in the winter months.
• If your planning and budget allow, attend the world-famous Vienna Opera Ball at Wiener Staatsoper (the State Opera House).
• Go for a unique Viennese coffee and a strudel and people-watch in Vienna’s gorgeous historic center.
• Try cocktails mixed with beautiful views at the 25Hours Hotel rooftop bar, The Dachboden Loft (in the 7th District,, the city’s hipster district).

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2. Hallstatt

Now famous with Instagrammers this small scenic town which overlooks the serene waters of Hallstatt Lake is one of my favourite places in Europe. I also think it looks spectacular in both summer and winter. 

The town is filled with chocolate box pretty 16th-century Alpine houses, and its winding cobbled alleyways are home to quaint cafes and independent shops. As well as offering you the chance to indulge in some rock climbing, hiking, and boating, some intriguing places make this area particularly interesting.

I would recommend visiting The Beinhaus (bone house) displays stacks of human remains that were taken there due to the shortage of grave spaces. Although it sounds morbid, the experience is very different; there is something wonderful and humbling about visiting the Beinhaus.

The ice and salt caves, with their impressive subterranean salt lake, in my opinion, are also worth visiting and are truly spectacular (the funicular railway connects Hallstatt to Salzwelten).

My highlights…

• Take a stroll around the lakefront, filled with such picturesque scenery that it looks like it’s straight out of a storybook.
• Pay a visit to the extraordinary ice caves, to view notable frozen waterfalls and incredible ice formations.
• Check out the salt mine – considered the oldest in the world. It is also worth visiting, especially if you have children (they will love the thrilling miners’ slide).
• Hire a boat to explore the lake; for a unique alternative, try the traditionally crafted wooden salt boats .
• Go to Five Fingers Viewpoint, which offers one of the most spectacular views  in the Alps.
• See the beautiful colorful half-timbered houses in the central Market Square .
• Have dinner on a beautiful open-air restaurant terrace  around the lake.

3. Salzburg 

I completely fell for Salzburg’s charms; this is also the place for music fans! It also celebrates its accolade as Mozart’s birthplace by allowing visitors into the home where Mozart was born and running exhibitions there.

Salzburg may be home to Mozart and all things extravagant. Still, for an astounding 70% of overseas visitors, The Sound of Music remains the primary reason for travel to the city, with tour companies all over the town offering their version of the Sound of Music tour. I highly recommend going on one; they are a lot of fun! 

Also brimming with exceptional galleries and museums, a rich array of restaurants, and a diverse selection of shopping opportunities, from farmer’s markets to upmarket stores, I defy you not to fall in love with this utterly charming city, just like I did!

My must-see highlights…

• Go on a Sound of Music tour for hours of kitsch fun at the Austrian Way.
• Wander around the beautiful Old Town, one of the best-preserved city centres north of the Alps and brimming with stunning baroque architecture. Make sure you include a visit to the main cathedral and the Town Hall.
• Hear famous Mozart pieces performed inside the historic fortress castle at the impressive Mirabell Palace and Gardens. 
• Wander down Getreidgasse,, a charming Medieval shopping street filled with interesting independent shops.
• Go for a beautiful Mozart Dinner Concert at the Baroque Hall of St Peter`s Abbey in Salzburg.
• Experience one of Salzburg’s Beer Halls – try the Augustiner Bräustübl Tavern, with a garden attached to a monk’s brewery.

4. Innsbruck

This is a stunning Alpine gem! Here the snow-topped mountains and tall, colourful buildings make it a postcard-worthy alpine destination. Perfect for those who love to hit the slopes, it has several well-managed ski resorts and excellent winter sports facilities.

Other sites I would recommend visiting include Ambras Castle, the Folk Art Museum, and the Court Church. Some very trendy hip bars are at the centre of a thriving nightlife so I would suggest making the most of these too.

Serenity has its place here though as well and I fell in love with the gentle pace of life here as well as the many luxurious thermal spas that also reside here!

My must-see highlights

• Hang out in the gorgeous Old Town, filled with boutique shops , cafes , and restaurants . 
• Visit Tyrol Panorama; there’s a museum on site, but the real draw is the incredible views of the surrounding areas.
• Take a cable car, Nordkette Mountain Range, for stunning  Alpine scenery. 
• Visit and maybe swim in Lake Achensee , Tirol’s largest lake.

5. Vorarlberg

The mountainous region of Vorarlberg boasts beautiful scenery and stunning architecture and I was seriously wowed by this place when I visited! It’s more than just a new place to explore; it’s seriously a delight for your eyes to witness and I would highly recommend it to anyone who loves walking, biking, skiing, and photography!

I personally think the mountains of Vorarlberg present a unique and artistic view for any hiker, explorer, or artist. The landscapes between Lake Constance and the mountains are perfect for long walks, especially with the mountains reaching up to 2,000 metres.

There are several natural wonders in Vorarlberg. One of my personal favourites is the Verwall area in Montafon. Verwall in Vorarlberg is one of the largest European Protection Areas in the Natura 2000 network.

In my opinion, the views you can enjoy as you hike along its routes are as beautiful and diverse as the mountains! 

Despite being Austria’s second-largest city, in my opinion, Graz is a very relaxed location. Although the town is overflowing with beautiful architecture, I love that the city has a youthful vibe, which I think is down to its young, friendly population and the handful of impressive modern buildings dotted around.

There are many great things to do in Graz . There is a vibrant arts center in this city, which fits in well with its Renaissance courtyards and baroque palaces. Thanks to the large student population (around 50,000 students spread across four University campuses), the nightlife in Graz is booming.

Of course, if you’re not much of an art person and you don’t see yourself dancing in the late evenings, then I would suggest visiting the Schloss Eggenberg Parkland palace gardens which are a relaxing place for just frolicking among peacocks! 

7. Zell am See

When you visit Zell am See, I can tell you, you are going to witness some fantastic sites! The first one likely to capture your full attention is the beautiful bluer-than-blue lake, Zeller See! 

You can dive into the gorgeous lake and cycle around its picturesque, plant-filled shores. Hiking and skiing in the mountains are also available, and if you have or rent a car, I would recommend driving up high onto the very scenic and famous Grossglockner Road.

Every year, more than a million visitors from around the world visit Zell am See in search of new sites and new adventures. When the sky’s blue is reflected in such a clear lake, in my opinion, it would be hard for nature explorers not to fall in love with this piece of this country’s beauty.

8. Mostviertel

I personally think Mostviertel is Lower Austria’s most captivating region. It combines rolling green meadows in the North with snow-laced rugged peaks in the South.

This combination of landscapes contributes to the region’s endless charm and boasts Europe’s largest continuous area of pear orchards. Its chocolate-box scenery makes it a wonder for adults and children alike and offers museums, monuments, family activities, and the chance to ski. I would suggest trying Hotel Kartause Gaming  or Zur Linde  for hotel options in this area.

Alpbach has been voted the prettiest village in the country, and when I visited I immediately saw why! The sweet village is nestled between a cluster of majestic snow-capped mountains, allowing access to the perfect ski slopes while maintaining a solid alpine tradition.

Alpbach is full of picturesque wooden farmhouses, cattle fields, and locals skilled in traditional crafts. If you fancy a taste of how this country used to be and enjoy the experience of time standing still, then in my opinion, Alpbach is the place for you! 

I would suggest trying Bikepension Gästehaus Larch Alpbach  or  Alphof Hotel Alpbach for places to stay here.

Within beautiful Tirol lies the historic old town of Innsbruck, which I’ve mentioned above, but I think this incredible region is worth exploring! 

I personally think it’s a truly stunning spot steeped in folklore, mountains, and ski resorts and makes a fantastic destination to visit in this country, either summer or winter – the scenery is truly breathtaking!

Expect miles of walking and hiking trails across nature, fresh air, and clear mountain streams. History lovers can also enjoy the record-breaking suspension footbridge that is Highline179 and I would highly suggest visiting.

This remarkable structure is 114 meters high and 406 meters long; it connects Ehrenberg Castle to the remains of the 17th-century Roman Fortress Claudia in the market town of Reutte.

• Visit the suspended terrace of Café 3440 (pictured above), which sits 3,440 m above sea level and offers incredible uninterrupted panoramic views of the beautiful Alpine scenery.
• Go on the Nordkette Cable Car, a  gondola lift from Innsbruck to the Nordkette, which offers more gorgeous views.
• Go hiking , rock climbing, and cycling to make the most of the Alpine scenery .

11. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

I think this famous winding, precarious, beautifully scenic road is wow-inducing! It will lead you to the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park as well as up the giddy heights of the Grossglockner (Austria’s tallest mountain), passing through the Pasterze glacier.

In my opinion, it’s an ideal way to experience the landscape at its best, as you’ll pass through mountain forests, alpine meadows, ice plains, and sheer cliff faces.

You can hire a vintage car, take a bus, ride a motorcycle, go by bike, or venture by foot; either way, the experience is jaw-dropping! Villa Orania  and  Schiefe Alm Hotel Bad Gastein  are gorgeous accommodation options in the area.

12. Nationalpark Gesäuse

The newest of this country’s beautiful National Parks, beautiful Gesäuse, is set in mountain ridges, deep valleys, and dense forests. I think it’s the perfect location for exploring unspoiled nature and is a favourite for rafting connoisseurs and hikers.

Of the six mountain peaks over 2000 meters in the park, Hocktor is the highest and most popular among visiting hikers – reaching a staggering 2369 meters in height.

I personally think artists, photographers, and travel bloggers would reap the benefits of visiting such a beautiful setting – if you can reach the top! 

13. Saalbach-Hinterglemm

In the district of Zell am See, you can find a municipality known for its skiing, mountain biking, and other rough and challenging outdoor sports. It’s located in the Saalbach Valley, which has some breathtaking views at any time of day, especially if you’re coming in from Bründlkopf.

This peaceful location primarily consists of small towns and has several transport links – including Zell am See, which is around 20km away.

The town itself is primarily orientated towards tourism, but that doesn’t make it any less of a perfect place for exploring and taking on the outdoors and all it has to offer, I stayed in an eco-hotel here for a few days and I fell in love with the uncrowded, beautiful and tranquil landscapes here! 

14. St. Gilgen

A stroll through the village of St. Gilgen (in the state of Salzburg) is a welcome breath of fresh air for any travel. The town takes you by the northern shore of Lake Wolfgangsee and is coupled with elegance and fashionable flair.

It is a village teeming to the top with traditions, culture, architecture, and unique tourist locations and I thought it was utterly charming especially if you’re looking for a place filled with Austrian tradition!

The legendary Oxen Cross island can be found nearby, next to Fürberg Cove; both can offer any holiday explorer a sight to behold.

Finally, I would recommend taking the Zwölferhorn Mountain cable car up to the peak directly from the village. It’s a seriously stunning view! 

• You may also like 15 Of The Most Beautiful Lakes In Europe

15. Hochosterwitz Castle

Many consider it the most impressive medieval castle in the country and with good reason. It stands proudly on top of a 160-meter-high Dolomite rock formation, and I personally think it looks like something out of a fairytale!

Between Easter and the end of October, visitors are allowed inside certain parts of the castle each year and I would highly recommend a visit if you’re here during these months.

I would suggest walking along the 620-metre pathway through 14 intriguing fortified gates before you reach the stunning façade of the castle. Try the Art Lodge  or  Chalet Hotel Senger if you want to stay near here.

16. Krems an der Donau

Krems an der Donau is a postcard-pretty riverside town in Lower Austria’s Danube’s Wachau Valley tourist region. It is renowned for its wine production and beautiful historical center (which has earned it a UNESCO Heritage Site status) and I loved this place! I thought it was charming, relaxed, and highly photogenic! 

Situated at the gateway to the World Heritage cultural landscape of the Wachau, it displays one of the most stunning stretches of river valley in Europe so don’t forget to bring your camera!

For elegant and unique places to stay I would suggest trying Wein-Gut Hutter  or  Gourmethotel Am Förthof .

17. Kitzbuhel

If you’re an avid skier and looking for one of the top ski resorts in the country then I would say you need to look no further than Kitzbuhel!  Legends, including three-time Olympic medallist Toni Sailer, have been born on these slopes so you’ll be in great company! 

But pretty Kitzbuhel began its life in the 16th century as a mining town catering to silver and copper mining. Today, in my opinion, it still has a charming historical feel and has kept some of its medieval architecture.

18. Thayatal National Park

Thayatal National Park lies close to the border and the Czech Republic. This unique location is the country’s smallest national park and one of central Europe’s last natural valleys.

The park itself is technically two parks split across the border. The landscape consists of a deep canyon with steep slopes and numerous rock formations. The Thaya River (or the Dyje River if you’re across the border in the Czech Republic) cuts across the canyon, making for truly spectacular views.

I personally think this deserves a place on this list for its incredible scenery, its numerous hiking trails, its well-preserved castle ruins, and its wildlife spotting including the European otter, the black stork, and the Wild Cat.

19. Dürnstein

I was a huge fan of this almost impossibly photogenic spot! Durnstein sits on the Danube and is known for its beautiful buildings and scenic riverside location.

It’s also a historical hotspot for anyone wishing to visit the castle where the Lionheart, Richard the First of England, was once imprisoned! 

However, I would recommend that you plan your trip to this wondrous area in the summer when it’s busy with visitors and tourists and has a real buzz about the place. Durnstein essentially entirely closes up in the winter.

I think it’s a dream for photographers, with large, sweeping landscapes, high hilltops, and stunning architecture. The castle’s ruins sit high up on the green hills against the blue backdrop of the sky, making for some perfect shots.

20. Faaker See 

Faaker See is an alpine lake in the state of Carinthia. It’s the state’s fifth-largest lake and one of the most beautiful – famed for its glorious clear azure water.

When I visited I fell completely in love with this beautiful spot and its tranquil vibe and I loved that the lake stretched on for miles! 

Popular with locals and tourists alike, here you can bathe, and go boating, but I would suggest also just kicking back and taking in the beautiful scenery! Enjoy! 

Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh – writer and photographer

With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook .

Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board ,  Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

25 thoughts on “Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria”

It’s so cool to read a blog about my home country – it turns my view a bit. It is a really great selection of destinations. I didn’t even know some very few places.

I have been applying for a series of scholarships to Visit Australia for my studies and I believe I must be there soon. What a nice place to be? Thanks for sharing. But you are just making more curious to get there 🙂

I also explore these all fabulous places in my these tours and have a joyful time with my mates.

It is good to mention Salzkammergut. Salzkammergut is a beautiful resort area. Travelers who have seen the movie The Sound Of Music will know what this lake region looks like, because that movie was filmed in and around the city of Salzburg and the neighboring Salzkammergut region

Hochosterwitz Castle 😮 it’s so amazing. I cant wait to be there. Faaker See it so stunning. Have you ever been to Nepal? There are lots of lakes just like Faaker See, even more beautiful. 🙂

Where in Austria is the opening picture (the first one in this write up on Austria?

Vorarlberg we have a separate post on that area 🙂

I’v recently been to almost all these places!! Austria indeed is a gem.

Unfortunately, out of the ten I have only been to one (Salzburg which was absolutely amazing)! I certainly will do everything I can to see the other nine on the list!

Vienna is one of the best place in Austria.I want to visit here again last time i enjoyed very much with my cousin Jordan.

Lovely pictures.No doubt,Vienna is so unique,Vienna is the perfect blend of historical architecture and modern attractions.I also visit vienna every year for my business trips.

Fine selection. I’d also recommend to visit Graz. It is part of UNESCO World Culture Heritage and was European Capital of Culture in 2003.

I’m coming to Vienna in August, can’t wait. Good to know it’s one of the most beautiful places in Austria 🙂

Can’t wait to see your post on it Agness, hope you find it as beautiful!

Great job rounding up these places. I am considering spending a few days in Vienna and exploring a few other places in Austria. I think the Alps are well worth the visit and Hallstatt is indeed amazing.

I once spent a week in Innsbruck in the summer and it was just perfect. It’s most known for it’s winter activities but it’s just as great in summer!

Thanks Angela, we remember reading it and your beautiful photos!

I feel the first photo and photo of Vienna has something enhanced with Photoshop. Other than that , everything is wonderful. Nice location selection.

Good choice of locations. I’m always amused about the fact that the Chinese re-created the village of Hallstatt in China! The community of Hallstatt was unaware and was p… off when they found out. But then they came to agree that cloning Hallstatt in China was actually a big compliment.

Interesting factoid, they built it mirror-image. The reason isn’t clear if it was to avoid the topic of “copy” or whether they got the pic mixed up…..

This is a very fitting post since we are traveling to Austria in less than 2 weeks. Although we’ll spend most of our time in Vienna, I’m hoping to take one or two day trips outside of the city to see the countryside.

Hope you have a great time!

Always looking for locations to discover and photograph so really appreciate this post – some very promising future destinations.

Wonderful pictures. Austria is a very beautiful and picturesque country, we have been to most of these places and they are just as the pictures show .

Stunning! I love Austria, there is so much beautiful nature and many cute towns, Mostviertel sounds wonderful.

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The ultimate Austria travel guide: the best things to do and see

The best trips to Austria are multi-sensory adventures that include transporting music, intriguing history, delicious cakes , and postcard-worthy nature. This small Central European country may not have the same travel reputation as its more popular neighbors like Italy and Switzerland, but Austria—often considered one of the best countries to live in—is just as culturally rich. Read on to learn more about the best things to do in Austria, what to see in Austria, the best time to visit Austria, and much more.

The best time to go Cities to visit What to see What to eat and drink What to do Souvenirs to buy What to pack

Currency: Euro 

Language: German (but English is widely spoken)

UNESCO sites: Austria is home to 12 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the historic cities of Salzburg and Vienna. Schönbrunn Palace and the 25-mile Semmering railway are also two top things to see in Austria. 

Best way to get around: Transportation into and within Austria is fantastic. Vienna, its capital, has a major international airport that connects to many of the world’s biggest cities, and an extensive train network makes traveling all over the country that much easier. Metros and trams are regularly used in the bigger cities; while most Austrians are very comfortable riding their bikes to quickly zip around town. Because the Danube River runs through most of Austria, enjoying a river cruise is also one of our favorite Austria travel tips. 

Fun fact: Austria borders eight European countries: Germany, the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland, and Lichtenstein. What does this mean for travelers? Well, if you’re wondering how to plan a trip to Austria, you may want to consider a multi-country European tour. It would be very easy to partner a tour of Austria with any of the countries above, plus other wonderful destinations in Europe. 

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20+ Austria Travel Tips for First Timers & Must Knows Before You Go

Last Updated: July 6, 2023

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Despite its relatively small size, Austria is a country packed to the brim with sights – from majestic mountains and opulent palaces to elegant cities and more stunning cakes than you could ever eat in one lifetime.

… it’s also full of potential culture shocks and silly travel mistakes.

I used to live just across the border in Munich, so over the years I’ve gotten to know Austria fairly well… the hard way! Namely by bumbling around, committing the faux pas and embarrassing myself in the name of research.

But luckily, you’re here just in time to prepare for Austria the easy way – by reading my full list of Austria travel tips, collected over years of first hand experience (and many a starry-eyed day trip from Munich to Salzburg ).

So, from avoiding saucy schnitzels to preparing for naked saunas, here are a few weirdly specific must-knows before you visit Austria. I hope you find it helpful!

Save this list of Austria Travel Tips for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

1. Remember: Austria ≠ Australia

We’ll start with a silly Austria tip, and one that I (frankly) cannot believe needs saying.

But from US presidents to famous news outlets , it’s a gaffe that pops up time and time again, so, just to make sure we’re all on the same page… Austria is a country in Central Europe, and completely different to Australia, the Southern Hemisphere country famed for its kangaroos and koalas.

Walk around Austria for even a few minutes and you’ll come across silly souvenirs mocking this confusion, and probably a tour guide or two telling a joke about it.

So, again, before you start planning that Austria trip, make sure it’s mountains, schnitzel and Sound of Music you’re looking for, not the Outback, Didgeridoos, and giant spiders that hide in your shoes.

2. Never mistake Austrians for Germans

Just as Austria and Australia are (shockingly) not the same country, the same goes for Austria and its neighbour, Germany.

A very important Austrian etiquette tip I must shout from the rooftops is simply this: Austrians don’t take kindly to being mistaken for German.

So, remember to never say that Germany and Austria are the same, or make jokes about Germans and Austrians being the same. At best, they’ll laugh it off, at worst, you’ll cause legitimate offense.

Sure the two countries share a language and there are (admittedly) similarities, but Austrians are really proud of their country and don’t love it when people just dismiss them as the exact same as Germany, so keep that in mind.

As a Canadian who’s frequently mistaken for American, I totally get it.

3. Be sure to add Austria’s nature spots to your itinerary

Now in terms of where to go in Austria, I find that overseas visitors often gravitate towards the country’s most famous cities, Vienna and Salzburg.

But there is SO much more to explore beyond that, especially Austria’s natural marvels, which many overseas visitors miss. In fact, it’s often Austria that Europeans choose for their nature-forward holidays (whether it be for skiing or hiking), so don’t miss out!

Filled with soaring mountains, glimmering lakes, and charming swathes of countryside, Austria is (in many ways) a more budget-friendly version of Switzerland, so I highly recommend extending your time and expanding your itinerary to include at least a day trip or two to take in some of these incredible natural landscapes.

There’s the valleys and waterfalls of Salzburgerland, the alpine majesty of Tyrol’s nature parks, the beautiful lakes of Carinthia, along with more under-the-radar picks like the Bregenzerwald in Vorarlberg (which offers amazing mountains and cute alpine towns).

All that to say – there’s plenty of amazing nature to be enjoyed in Austria, so don’t just limit yourself to cities.

4. Seek out new destinations by reading Austrian websites

On that note, if you are open to visiting more offbeat places during your Austria trip, one thing I can highly recommend is doing your research on local Austrian websites.

In my opinion, there’s quite a big difference between the Austrian destinations that international tourists visit and the destinations that domestic tourists visit.

Both are great, but if you want to explore beyond the most famous sights, then reading Austrian blogs to see where locals vacation is a good starting point.

NOTE: This is also a great way to discover more offbeat things to do in individual cities as well. For instance, if I wanted to find more alternative things to do in Graz , I might browse local blogs/event websites to find pop-up events or unique festivals.

5. Don’t miss Austria’s Christmas markets

I know that neighbouring Germany is probably the best known country in the world for Christmas markets, but Austria has a fair few incredible gems too, often with far thinner international crowds.

So, if you’re looking for a magical winter destination in Europe, consider pencilling in some Austrian Christmas Markets between mid November to Christmas.

6. Learn the basics in German

In terms of which language to panic-learn before your trip, German is the official language of Austria, so that’s what everyone will speak.

In larger cities, it won’t be tough to get by with English, but it may be more difficult in the countryside.

In any case, it’s good to at least know the basics, like…

• Hello – Hallo (Ha-low!) or Grüß Gott (Grewss-got!)
• Thank you – Danke (Dahn-keh)

NOTE: The German spoken in Austria can sound very different depending on where you are because there’s a lot of different regional dialects, so don’t be surprised if you have trouble understanding locals (or vice versa). It’s all part of the fun!

7. Only rent a car if you plan to do nature trips

If your trip mainly consists of city to city travel, then I’d advise relying on public transport to save yourself the headache of driving.

Public transport is amazing in Austria, so you’ll have no trouble getting around, both from place to place and also within cities themselves.

But, if you plan to do a lot of more offbeat nature spots to see mountains, lakes and national parks, then having a car would be ideal. Be sure to check out my considerations before renting a car in Europe if that’s the case.

Of course, a more convenient alternative would be to book day tours to nature spots from the city you’re staying in – that way you can simply drool in the back seat while you see all the landscapes, without the stress of navigating.

8. Get a vignette if you’re driving

If you do plan to rent a car however, one important Austria must-know is you’ll need a vignette.

This is a sticker that you must buy for your car in order to use the country’s motorways. Failure to procure one means an aggressive fine in the mail weeks after the fact. (Ask me how I know that).

IMPORTANT: Make sure this sticker is purchased and adhered to the car before you enter the country because there are automatic scanners that look for them at the border… so you may get fined even if you buy one upon entry. (Again, ask me how I know that)

9. Understand that public transport is on an honour system

Unlike other countries which have fare gates and other measures in place to ensure you pay, public transport in Austria works on a very trusting honour system where you are responsible for buying your own ticket, and only need to show it if you are asked to (via random controls).

So, make sure you always buy the right ticket and validate it properly in case you get checked!

10. Learn the tricks to saving money on Austrian trains

Train travel is one of my personal favourite ways of getting around Austria. If you are new to train travel in Europe, then be sure to read my step by step guide to get acquainted, and scope out my favourite scenic train rides while you’re at it.

After you’ve decided that you do want to glide elegantly across the country by rail, then there are a few different ways to save money on tickets:

• Einfach-Raus-Ticket: A group ticket that gives you unlimited travel for a day on all local/regional trains across Austria. The more people you have, the cheaper it works out to be per person. Great for group day trips!
• Regional Tickets/Offers: Special passes that give you unlimited travel for a day on local/regional trains for a particular region/area. Great for day trips in a smaller area!
• Eurail: A rail pass that covers train travel across most European countries. Great only in certain instances, i.e. when you are visiting many countries and want flexibility/spontaneity. I explain more in my full Eurail review.

11. Sorry – Austrians do not know the Sound of Music

I hate to be the bearer of bad news.

And trust me – as someone who grew up watching the Sound of Music religiously every Christmas, this fact is definitely not one of my favourite things, but here goes…

Austrians do not really care about the Sound of Music. It’s not a classic film for them, they have no nostalgia tied to it, and (frankly) many of them don’t even like it.

So, when you head to Salzburg for your big Sound of Music pilgrimage, just know that your enthusiasm is probably best shared among your fellow tourists, rather than among locals.

12. Remember “W” is pronounced like V

In terms of language, a good thing to remember is that the letter W in German is pronounced like a V so if you’re saying any words or names, say it with a “Vuh” sound.

In Austria, the most prominent example would be the German name of Vienna which is spelled Wien, but pronounced “Veen”.

You’ll catch this pronunciation trap in the city’s most popular dish too -Wiener Schnitzel. So remember: if you do decide to indulge in this fried slab of goodness during your trip, order it as a “Veen-uh” schnitzel and not “Weeeeee-ner” schnitzel.

13. Avoid catching locals in photos/videos without their consent

Upon arrival in Austria, your first instinct may be to whip out your phone and capture as many of those beautiful sights as possible, to the chagrin of your 52 Instagram followers.

But just a quick note before you do that – Austrians can be very private people who don’t like having their photograph taken without consent.

So, a very important Austrian etiquette tip is to be mindful of others’ privacy and try not to blatantly take photos that might accidentally catch someone’s face head on. 

14. Don’t be alarmed if you catch people staring at you

While taking photos of others’ faces is considered very rude, one thing that isn’t is… staring.

To the shock of many first time visitors, Austrians don’t mind staring. So you could very well be sitting on the bus, minding your own business, only to feel the stony stare of a stranger who is (rather shamelessly) staring at you while you just try to peacefully exist.

Can it be jarring? Of course! But don’t worry – it’s just a cultural difference where they don’t consider staring to be a rude practice. Think of it as just them perceiving you (or if it helps your confidence, pretend it’s because you’re wowing them with your stunning face).

15. Learn how to tip in Austria

In terms of tips, tipping culture in Austria is definitely not as aggressive as in North America.

For good service you’ll tend to tip 5-10%, usually rounding up to a number that makes sense so if your meal was 45 euro, you might hand them 50. 

What’s worth noting though is that tipping works a little differently here.

For instance, you wouldn’t just leave money on the table after the meal. Instead, you have to tell them how much you intend to pay in total (including tip) as you hand over your cash or card.

So let’s imagine that (including tip), you want to pay 40 euro. In this instance, you would say “40” as you hand over your cash or your card, and then they’ll give you the appropriate change.

If you want them to just keep the change, then you hand your cash over and say “Stimmt So!”, and they’ll know to just keep the whole thing.

16. Be prepared for a different style of customer service

Now in terms of culture, it is often said that Austrians can seem cold and direct. I personally haven’t had this experience as much, but maybe I’ve just been lucky. (And tend to surround myself with the drunk ones ).

Anyways, what I will concede though is that Austrian customer service is very different from typical North American customer service.

In contrast to typical North American service which involves being bright, cheery, friendly and hands on, Austrian customer service is usually a lot less animated, and to someone who’s not used to it, it may even seem like you’re being ignored on purpose.

The way I’ve had this explained to me though is that Austrians just really value their privacy, hence why they take such a hands-off approach.

At a restaurant for example, the server will come, take your order and then leave you alone, hence why you need to flag them down if you want anything, because they consider constant check-ins a rude interruption.

So, don’t take ‘colder’ customer service personally – it’s just another one of those cultural differences.

17. Prepare for nude saunas and public nudity areas

Another fun cultural difference? The Austrian approach to nudity!

Namely, that they’re very into it.

If you go to a sauna in Austria for instance, it’s very much expected that you go naked (for sanitary reasons), and there’s often designated nude (FKK) zones at lakes and swimming areas as well.

Add on the fairly common occurrence of both men and women alike sunbathing topless, and you have a sure recipe for culture shock. So, if you’re from a part of the world where this kinda bare-it-all attitude isn’t common, just remember it’s normal here, so adapt accordingly.

18. Eat as much dessert as humanly possible

An easier thing to adapt to perhaps is the absolutely WONDER that is Austria’s sweet scene.

Truly, Austrians are masters of dessert.

While North Americans will have no doubt heard of strudel or the famous Sacher Torte, there are SO MANY more options than those. My personal favourite is the Esterházytorte which is originally Hungarian but is commonly found in Vienna these days too, or the almighty Kaiserschmarrn, shredded pancakes served with jam or apple sauce.

With hundreds of options and special regional desserts all over, I’d recommend you simply go to a coffee house or bakery and let your senses guide you.

19. Try regional specialties wherever you are

While overseas visitors often think of Austrian food as simply schnitzel and not much else, the truth is there’s a lot of culinary variety across the country, so choose your eats accordingly.

For instance, Styria is known for its crispy fried chicken (Backhendl) and delicious pumpkin seed oil. Some alpine regions are also known for their hearty eats like Käsespätzle, bouncy little dumplings slathered with cheese and onions.

Other regions do a lot of fish dishes, others work miracles with potatoes – all to say be sure to try the local specialties wherever you are.

20. Don’t miss out on Austrian wine

Despite its proximity to Germany, Austria is definitely more of a wine country than a beer country, so take advantage of all the crisp and delicious wines that they have to offer.

Or better yet – book yourself a trip to a wine region to enjoy it close to the source! South Styria is one of my favourite areas of Austria.

21. Try Almdudler

And if you’re looking for a soft drink to try in Austria, make sure you grab yourself a refreshing Almdudler.

Besides being fun to say, it’s a remarkably tasty soda made with alpine herbs, and is often considered the national drink of Austria.

22. Don’t order schnitzel with sauce

A proper Austrian schnitzel requires little more than a quick squeeze of lemon juice. Anything more is often considered akin to sacrilege, so keep that in mind before your slather your schnitzel in mushroom sauce (which I fear to admit was actually a common thing I did in Germany).

And for my fellow Sound of Music fans, no, sadly ‘schnitzel with noodles’ is not a thing. Why is it in the song then? I imagine it’s likely because few things rhyme with “potato salad”.

23. Bring cash 

While many more places accept card payments these days in Austria, paying with cash is often still the norm, especially for smaller purchases, so having cash is always a good idea, preferably in smaller denominations like 50 euro bills or smaller.

24. Prepare to pay for public bathrooms

Another important Austria travel tip is to bring coins with you wherever you go.

That’s because public bathrooms usually charge a small fee of 50 cents or a euro, so make sure you have some coins with you in case of an emergency.

25. Do not jaywalk

In Austria, the only crime worse than saucing up your schnitzel is crossing the street when you’re not supposed to.

No – really – jaywalking is not only illegal in Austria, it’s actually enforced (albeit kind of randomly), so err on the side of caution and avoid it if possible.

26. Remember that most shops are closed on Sundays

Last but not least, a very important Austria travel tip if your visit coincides with a Sunday is that Sundays are considered a day of rest in Austria so shops (including grocery stores) are closed.

That said, be sure to stock up on any shopping before Sunday, although in a pinch, bakeries, restaurants, gas stations and shops in transit hubs will usually still be open.

I hope this list of Austria travel tips was helpful!

If you’re here after all those Austrian travel tips, congrats – I’m beyond proud of you! Hopefully by now, you’ll feel much more prepared for your big Austria trip, but if you have any more questions, let me know in the comments.

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

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Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN AUSTRIA IN 2024

MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN AUSTRIA

Table of Contents

From sweeping alpine views to exquisite urban landscapes, Austria seamlessly blends diverse destinations, ensuring something captivating for everyone. And this post is all about the amazing spots to discover and the best places to visit in Austria .

Austria has always held a special place in my heart, and I find myself regularly returning to this beautiful country. The best places in Austria to visit seem to call out to travelers, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

From the snow-capped alpine peaks to the historic streets of its cities, I’ve been fortunate to wander through some of the best places in Austria. Every trip deepens my appreciation for this nation’s unique allure and its treasure trove of destinations waiting to be explored.

Austria is an amazing destination year-round. During summer, its cities and towns are brimming with sightseeing opportunities, alongside plentiful hiking and outdoor adventures. Yet, as the winter months roll in, the nation transforms into a haven for winter sports enthusiasts and comes alive with enchanting Christmas markets . So, many of the destinations can be visited throughout the year.

So, after several trips throughout the country, I have compiled a list of the best places to see in Austria – for nature lovers, history buffs, or anyone who appreciates beauty!

TOP PLACES TO VISIT IN AUSTRIA 

So, here are some of the most beautiful sights and places to visit!

VIENNA 

Oh, Vienna ! If there’s one place in Austria that holds a special place in my heart, it’s this vibrant city. From the moment I stepped into Vienna, the capital city of Austria, I was wrapped in its embrace of history, culture, and modernity. It’s without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Austria, and here’s why.

The city’s architecture is a visual treat. The grandeur of the Hofburg Palace, the intricate details of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the imperial charm of the Schönbrunn Palace, all tell tales of a time gone by. And the Belvedere? Oh, it’s not just a palace but a treasure trove of art, home to Gustav Klimt’s iconic “The Kiss.”

But Vienna isn’t just about historic sites. The modern side of the city is equally alluring. MuseumsQuartier, with its quirky art spaces and cafes, became my go-to hangout. The Vienna State Opera’s performances were breathtaking, and as for the Prater amusement park, its Ferris wheel offers gorgeous views of the city.

And can we talk about the coffeehouses? Sipping on a Melange, indulging in a slice of Sachertorte, and just watching the world go by is an experience I cherish.

Vienna is more than a destination; it’s a feeling. It’s a beautiful blend of the past and the present, and every nook and corner of this city has a story to tell. If you haven’t been, pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with Vienna just like I did!

SALZBURG 

Beautiful Salzburg ! Nestled amidst the majestic Eastern Alps , this Austrian gem is a symphony of baroque architecture and natural beauty. The Hohensalzburg Fortress, perched atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the city’s spires, the Salzach River, and the surrounding mountains. It felt as if I had stepped into a fairy tale.

Walking the cobbled streets of the Old Town, I marveled at the splendid Salzburg Cathedral and the charming Getreidegasse, where the melodic chimes of Mozart’s birthplace beckoned. Music in the air, from street performers playing classics to the world-renowned Salzburg Festival that celebrates the arts. As a “Sound of Music” fan, you surely will also join a guided tour and want to explore this beautiful Austrian city from a different perspective.

Beyond the city’s musical heritage, Salzburg is a haven for lovers of the outdoors. Just a short drive away, the Salzkammergut lake district promised serene lakeside moments, while the Untersberg mountain beckoned for a hike.

In Salzburg, history, culture, and nature intertwine seamlessly. It’s not just a place to visit; it’s a place to feel alive, to be inspired, and to embrace the magic of Austria’s rich tapestry. For any traveler seeking a blend of enchantment and elegance, Salzburg is undeniably a must-see in Austria.

HALLSTATT 

From the moment I glimpsed Hallstatt , nestled between the serene Hallstätter See and the towering Dachstein Alps, I knew I had discovered one of Austria’s most picturesque places. Often hailed as the most beautiful village in the world, Hallstatt’s charm lies in its quaint wooden houses, reflecting perfectly on the glassy lake beneath a backdrop of majestic mountains.

Exploring the village, I wandered into the ancient salt mines that tell tales of a civilization dating back over 7,000 years. The Skywalk, offering an eagle’s view of this postcard-perfect setting, was an experience I’ll still vividly remember.

Strolling through the Market Square, the heartbeat of Hallstatt, with its historic buildings and the iconic Evangelical Parish Church, was like stepping back in time.

Yet, what truly defines Hallstatt is its tranquillity. Taking a boat ride on the placid lake, the world seemed to stand still, and the surrounding beauty was almost surreal. For those in search of both history and unparalleled natural beauty, Hallstatt is more than just a destination; it’s an immersion into a dreamlike world. If ever there was a place that captures the essence of Austria’s enchanting allure, it’s undoubtedly Hallstatt. A must-see for every traveler’s bucket list.

KRIMML WATERFALLS

The thunderous roar of the Krimml Waterfalls greeted me long before they came into view, hinting at the sheer power and majesty of Europe’s highest cascading falls. Located in the Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria, these falls tumble down in three massive stages, with a combined height of an impressive 380 meters.

Embark on the well-marked Wasserfallweg path, let the misty spray refresh you, and with each step, the views will become increasingly breathtaking. The trail, though steep in parts, offers various platforms and vantage points, each presenting the falls in a new, mesmerizing light. The experience is not just visual; the sound of cascading water, the coolness of the mist, and the scent of the surrounding alpine forest created an immersive sensory journey.

But Krimml Waterfalls isn’t just a visual spectacle. The ionized air, filled with negative ions from the cascading waters, is believed to have therapeutic effects, especially for respiratory health. Visiting the Krimml Waterfalls is not just about witnessing nature’s grandeur but also rejuvenating oneself in its midst.

For those searching for a blend of natural beauty and therapeutic wonder, the Krimml Waterfalls stand as an unmissable Austrian gem.

Innsbruck captivated my senses with its harmonious blend of urban sophistication and alpine charm. As the capital of Tyrol, nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, this small town boasts a unique juxtaposition of snow-capped peaks and vibrant city life. It is also the perfect place for exploring the nearby Alps of Austria.

The iconic Golden Roof, with its shimmering tiles, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, while the futuristic Bergisel Ski Jump showcases its modern spirit.

Venturing through the city, I was drawn to the Old Town’s medieval architecture and atmospheric alleyways. The Court Church and its line of larger-than-life bronze statues left a profound impression on me. Beyond its cultural gems, Innsbruck is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Nordkette mountain range, easily accessible by cable cars, offers panoramic views and thrilling ski slopes.

But Innsbruck isn’t just about historical sites or alpine adventures. The bustling Maria-Theresien-Straße, lined with cafes and shops, offers a taste of contemporary Austrian life.

With its impeccable blend of history, culture, and nature, Innsbruck is a mosaic of experiences waiting to be explored. For any traveler seeking the allure of an alpine city with a heartbeat of its own, Innsbruck is an undeniable must-visit.

ADMONT ABBEY LIBRARY

Stepping into the Admont Abbey Library felt like entering a realm where art, knowledge, and history converge in awe-inspiring harmony. Situated in Styria, Austria, this library is a jewel of Baroque architecture and is recognized as the world’s largest monastery library. Its opulent white halls, adorned with intricate gold details, house an impressive collection of nearly 200,000 volumes.

Ceiling frescoes painted by Bartolomeo Altomonte, capturing the stages of human knowledge, left me spellbound, while the library’s seven cupolas symbolize the seven stages of enlightenment, leading to true wisdom. The numerous sculptures by Josef Stammel add another layer of depth, particularly ‘The Four Last Things’ – a series of impressive representations of death, judgment, heaven, and hell.

Beyond its architectural and artistic marvels, the Admont Abbey Library stands as a testament to the importance of preserving knowledge and culture. It holds countless ancient manuscripts and texts, making it a haven for scholars and history enthusiasts.

For anyone with a penchant for art, architecture, or history, the Admont Abbey Library is not merely a place to visit; it’s an experience that transports you to a world where knowledge is celebrated in the grandest manner possible. A must-see on any Austrian itinerary.

As I approached Melk Abbey, perched majestically atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River, I was immediately struck by its grandeur. This Benedictine abbey, located in the Wachau Valley of Austria, stands as a stunning example of Baroque architecture, its golden façade gleaming brilliantly against the azure sky.

Inside, I was welcomed by the opulent Marble Hall, with its intricate ceiling frescoes and elegant columns, leading to the awe-inspiring church, adorned with gold, red, and soft pastels. The library, a treasure trove of ancient manuscripts and frescoed ceilings, exudes an ambiance of reverence for knowledge. It’s said to house over 100,000 volumes, including some of the most precious medieval scripts.

Beyond its architectural marvels, Melk Abbey serves as a reminder of the significant cultural and spiritual influence of Benedictine monks throughout Central Europe . The meticulously maintained gardens, with their Baroque pavilion and meditative walking paths, offer moments of serenity against a backdrop of panoramic views of the Danube.

For anyone traveling through Austria, Melk Abbey is not just a destination but an immersion into a rich tapestry of history, art, and spirituality. It’s an emblem of Austrian heritage and a must-visit for those seeking profound beauty and inspiration.

GROSSGLOCKNER HIGH ALPINE ROAD 

One of my most memorable experiences in Austria was driving the Grossglockner High Alpine Road. This panoramic route is nothing short of spectacular. Nestled amid the Austrian Alps, it winds its way through some of the country’s most pristine landscapes, offering jaw-dropping vistas at every turn.

The road climbs and curves, revealing valleys carpeted in green, glaciated peaks, and cascading waterfalls. As I ascended, the majestic Grossglockner, Austria’s highest mountain, loomed ahead, its snowy pinnacle contrasting sharply against the deep blue sky. The viewpoints and rest stops along the route, like the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, provided perfect spots to soak in the scenery and marvel at the Pasterze Glacier .

For anyone embarking on a road trip through Austria, this drive is a must. Not only does it offer unparalleled mountain views, but it also provides a sense of adventure as you navigate its winding paths and high-altitude stretches. To me, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road encapsulates the thrill of discovery, making it an essential highlight in any Austrian journey. The road itself, with its engineering marvel, and the landscapes it unveils, truly emphasizes why Austria is such a stunning destination.

During my travels in Austria, I stumbled upon the breathtaking Lünersee, nestled in the Vorarlberg region near the Swiss border. Situated at an impressive altitude of approximately 1,970 meters, Lünersee boasts a vibrant turquoise hue, set against a backdrop of imposing Alpine peaks. The crystal-clear lake mirrors the surrounding mountains, producing an ethereal, almost dreamlike vista.

After getting up via cable car, I was standing there in awe as the first views of the lake came without any effort!

I embarked on a lakeside hike, traversing a trail with a mix of gentle and slightly challenging stretches, perfect for a day out in the Alps. Each step unveiled fresh, awe-inspiring views of the lake and its majestic environs. Along the way, there are ample spots to rest, revel in the scenery, or settle down for a picturesque picnic.

Lünersee, as one of the Eastern Alps’ most expansive natural mountain lakes, is a haven for relaxation and exploration alike. Beyond the primary pathway, various trails ascend to elevated lookouts and cozy mountain shelters. The serene ambiance, paired with the spectacular landscapes, made my Lünersee visit an indelible Alpine memory. If Austria’s highlands beckon you, ensure Lünersee is on your itinerary; it epitomizes pristine natural beauty no nature lover should miss out on.

DRACHENSEE & SEEBENSEE

There is no shortage of outdoor activities in Austria – to see some, sometimes a bit of activity is required. 

The Drachensee and Seebensee rank among Europe’s most picturesque lakes . With extensive experience exploring lakes, these stand out as must-visits. Tucked in the Tyrolean Alps, hiking to these lakes felt like venturing into a fairy tale. The Drachensee, aptly named “Dragon Lake,” is a pristine glacial lake situated at roughly 1,910 meters. Its azure waters, mirroring the nearby summits, evoke tales of dragons lurking below.

A short distance away lies the Seebensee, another mesmerizing alpine lake positioned at about 1,657 meters. From here, the panoramic sights of the Zugspitze and Mieminger mountain ranges are awe-inspiring. The trek, though presenting a few challenges, is mainly easy to intermediate, ideal for an Alpine day adventure – especially because the spectacular views make up for everything!

This expedition encapsulates the Alpine essence: unspoiled waters, towering peaks, and a tranquil ambiance. It was a day immersed in Alpine wonder, solidifying my conviction that Austria is home to some of Earth’s most striking landscapes. If you’re in the vicinity, don’t miss this trek. The allure and peace of Drachensee and Seebensee will linger in your memories long after your departure.

The best time to do the hike is in late spring, in the summer months, and in early fall.

OLPERERHÜTTE 

This place is an extra tip for you!

The allure of Olpererhütte has always beckoned me, even though I haven’t seen it with my own eyes. Perched at an altitude of 2,388 meters in the Zillertal Alps, this mountain hut offers not just a refuge for trekkers but a vista that’s the stuff of dreams. The sight of the famous pedestrian suspension bridge against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks is one of Austria’s most Instagrammed views, and it’s easy to see why.

From what I’ve learned, Olpererhütte is more than just its iconic bridge. It’s an experience. The journey, whether you hike or ascend through the cable car, promises breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, pristine alpine lakes, and verdant meadows. Once there, the hut itself offers a warm respite with traditional Tyrolean meals that are a reward after a day’s trek.

For those passionate about mountain vistas, Olpererhütte stands as a mesmerizing blend of human engineering and raw natural beauty. It’s a testament to the harmony one can achieve with nature, and even though I’ve yet to witness it firsthand, it remains high on my list of dream destinations in Austria.

FINAL THOUGHTS ON WHERE TO GO IN AUSTRIA

Austria undoubtedly boasts some of the best places to visit in Europe. From its serene lakes to towering alpine peaks, the country captures the essence of natural beauty and architectural splendor. Each region has its own charm, making them a must-see in Austria. Among the myriad of destinations, certain locales stand out as the most beautiful spots in Austria, with some even recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The country’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature comes alive in its most beautiful cities, each teeming with unique experiences waiting to be discovered. As someone who has traversed this magnificent land, I can vouch for its splendor.

If you ever get the chance, ensure you explore these gems. Austria’s beauty is not just in its landscapes but also in the stories and history embedded within its borders. It truly is a traveler’s dream.

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The Oldest Restaurants In The World To Add To Your Travel Bucket List

F rom centuries-old trattorias serving age-old Italian recipes perfected during the Roman Empire to  fast-casual NYC delis serving trendy rainbow bagels and Caesar wraps, the pulse of the restaurant world is ever-changing. It's safe to say that a plethora of new restaurants enter the food scene every day and that the history of food is still in the making. However, these new establishments stand on the shoulders of giants so it's important to pay homage to the founding fathers of the restaurant as we know it across the globe. 

Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or both, this list of the oldest restaurants in the world will surely inspire your next travel-foodie venture. Whether your next trip (or your appetite) aligns more with authentic soba in Japan, or perhaps a hearty bowl of good ole clam chowder, this list is a surefire way to add zest to your travel itinerary while also satiating your hunger.

Read more: You're Probably Making One Big Mistake When Using A Menu

St. Peter Stiftskeller In Salzburg, Austria

St. Peter Stiftskeller is located in the heart of Salzburg, Austria's old town, and claims that it is the oldest known restaurant in Europe as it was first documented in 803 A.D. by a scholar of Charlemagne. The ancient Austrian eatery, which evolved from a simple cellar to a hotel that remains open to guests today, was said to have been visited by the likes of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Christopher Columbus themselves. In fact, the restaurant pays homage to the renowned Austrian composer with its Mozart Dinner Concert, where diners can enjoy a candlelit, three-course dinner inspired by recipes from Mozart's time, set to the ambiance of live performances of Mozart's compositions in a baroque-themed dining hall

Despite refreshing its name and menu offerings to Peter, a purveyor of modern Austrian cuisine, in 2020, the restaurant remains in its original state within St. Peter's Abbey and continues to offer traditional Austrian fare. So yes, you still have the opportunity to try historical dishes like Salzburg boiled beef paired with Austrian wine while sitting beneath the 1200-year-old stone walls of the monastery's cellar just as Mozart once did. 

Honke Owariya In Kyoto, Japan

Allow your travel bucket list to take you east to Honke Owariya, a 550-year-old soba hotspot located in Kyoto, Japan. Honke Owariya was originally founded in the Owari Province in 1465 as a confectionery shop before it moved to Kyoto and expanded its offerings to include soba, a Japanese buckwheat noodle, in 1702. Located south of the Imperial Palace, the eatery quickly became a favorite of the Royal Court and Zen temple priests who sourced soba from the humble confectionery shop. 

In addition to serving soba noodles in various ways (by itself, with toppings, or in a hot broth), Honke Owariya pays homage to its roots as a sweet shop with soba mochi, a buckwheat flour rice cake filled with red bean paste and topped with black sesame seeds. Tourists and locals alike continue to flock to the unassuming wooden building, flanked by an old magnolia tree and Buddhist sutra, to taste the various soba creations perfected over the past five centuries.

White Horse Tavern In Rhode Island, USA

The White Horse Tavern, located in Newport, Rhode Island, is an accessible option that U.S.-based historical foodie buffs can check off their bucket list, and it's as equally delicious as it is historical. Having been founded in 1673 by a Newport pirate named William Mayes, the Tavern boasts the title of "oldest operating restaurant in the U.S.," (per White Horse Newport ) and offers farm-to-table American cuisine within its jaunty, red-paneled facade. 

The White Horse Tavern was once the meeting place for a host of local political groups in the 17th century, including the City Council, and its history is retained in the bones of the restaurant today, from the architecture to the menu, and ambiance. So, while you wash down an expertly prepared catch of the day with a light lager, let the sound of a crackling fire and the happy voices of patrons transport you back to colonial Newport. 

Sobrino De Botín In Madrid, Spain

Madrid may already be on your travel bucket list for reasons like the Prado Museum or Parque del Retiro. But, there's one more underrated reason to visit the capital city of Spain, and that's Sobrino de Botín, the oldest restaurant in the world, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Sobrino de Botín serves traditional Spanish cuisine in the heart of Madrid and has served numerous celebrated literary figures, including Ernest Hemingway, Benito Pérez Galdós, Graham Greene, and María Dueñas. 

Casa Botín is known for its suckling pig and lamb, which are slow-cooked in an old, oak-fired oven and infused with the flavors of lard, white wine, bay leaf, onion, and garlic. And, while the sumptuous meats are fresh, imported weekly from Sepúlveda-Aranda-Riaza, the bones of the building tell a different story, as the first record of the brick-studded building dates back to 1590. In addition to the meat-focused stars of the show, patrons can also indulge in other typical Spanish dishes, like Botín-style clams, and gazpacho , which pair wonderfully with the restaurant's curated selection of Spanish wines.

Bianyifang In Beijing, China

Peking duck is a staple of Beijing cuisine, so what better place is there to cross off your travel bucket list than Bianyifang, the oldest Peking duck restaurant in the city? What started off as a purveyor of roasted chicken and duck in 1416 during the Ming Dynasty evolved into the restaurant that it is today, which has a number of branches around Beijing. At Bianyifang, crispy, juicy duck is achieved by a method of roasting where the bird is heated in a closed oven rather than an open oven, which many other Peking duck spots utilize.

Bianyifang's trademark closed-oven roast duck is offered in a multitude of flavors perfected over the centuries, including the flower scent, the garlic scent, and the vegetable scent. And, if roast Peking duck isn't enough, Bianyifang also offers other duck-adjacent menu items including salty duck liver, crystal duck tongue, duck feet with mustard Sauce, and drunken duck heart with rice wine. Plus, did we mention that a whole duck, including condiments, is only 188 yuan, or around $25?

Fraunces Tavern In New York City, USA

In a city where there's a bar (or three) on every corner, the ability to boast the title of "oldest and most historic bar in the city" (per Fraunces Tavern ) is no small feat. The Tavern, located in Tribeca, has a host of menus, from brunch to dinner, featuring cozy American dishes. With its red brick walls and dark wood interior the tavern has all of the elements of traditional Tribeca architecture, which one of the oldest neighborhoods in New York City. 

Whether you want to eat classics like New England clam chowder and fish and chips in the Independence Bar, or modern small bites like lobster mac & cheese and braised short rib sliders in the cozy Tallmadge Room, Fraunces Tavern has got you covered. Fraunces Tavern also boasts a multitude of beers, cocktails, whiskeys, and spirits to pair with its many dishes, including limited-release craft beers like the Ever Grain -- Eternal Vigilance, a Double IPA with notes of citrus, cotton candy, and tangerine gummies. Plus, who wouldn't want the chance to say they ate at the same bar as George Washington and the Founding Fathers?

La Campana In Rome, Italy

A pasta pilgrimage, or even a travel food bucket list, isn't complete without a visit to the home of pasta: Italy. More specifically, La Campana in Rome, Italy is a must-visit restaurant to cross off your travel bucket list. La Campana was first mentioned in census records dating back to 1526, making it Rome's oldest restaurant. The home-style Italian restaurant doles out traditional Roman dishes like pan-braised artichokes, carbonara, cacio e pepe, fried zucchini blossoms, and for dessert, the apple torta. 

The trattoria is tucked into a quaint cobblestoned street that the restaurant is named after, Vicolo della Campana. From the intricate history of the business, which is still run today by siblings Paolo and Marina Trancassini, descendants of the family who managed it for over a century, to the Roman culinary staples it offers, there's plenty to pique your interest when it comes to La Campana. Plus, in its over 500 years of history, La Campana has accumulated many fans, from Roman locals to celebrities including Caravaggio and Goethe. 

La Couronne In Rouen, France

La Couronne is known for being the oldest inn and restaurant in France. Founded in 1345, the restaurant is located in the northern Normandy region. Centuries of perfecting their repertoire of French dishes yielded something that some may say is better than a Guinness title: the approval of Julia Child who claimed that her first bite of French food eaten at La Couronne catalyzed her French culinary journey. 

Paying homage to the famed chef, La Couronne offers a Julia Child-inspired menu in addition to its two tasting menus, a la carte and Autumn. For 65 euros, the Julia Child Menu includes six oysters from Saint-Vaast, Dover sole, green salad, a fruit and cheese course, and petit fours. On the other hand, the Le Prestige de la Couronne menu offers seven courses for 83 euros and includes lobster cooked in champagne and Normandy-style souffle. As for the interior of the restaurant, La Couronne features six rooms and lounges decorated with dark wood beamed ceilings and wood-paneled walls covered in photos of past famous restaurant-goers.

Rules In London, UK

If there's something that London's food scene has, it's range. From world-renowned Indian restaurants to traditional fish and chips shacks to markets where you can get all of the above, London has it all. Every foodie city has to get its start somewhere, and when it comes to London, that start was Rules, the oldest restaurant in London that should be added to your travel bucket list immediately. If its stable growth since it opened in 1798 isn't enough to convince you to dine at Rules, let the endorsements of famous literary heroes like Charles Dickens, William Makepeace Thackeray, John Galsworthy, and H. G. Wells be a factor in your choice. 

The London-based eatery calls itself a heritage restaurant for good reasons: It serves traditional British fare like oysters, steak and kidney pie, roast, and sticky toffee pudding. But, the dining room isn't where the party ends at Rules. Upstairs is the restaurant's bar that once served as the meeting point for Edward VII and his mistress, and is now one of the best places to sip on inventive cocktails in London. Enjoy perfected classics like The Martini or Hemingway in the plush velvet chairs that line the inside of the bar. During the holiday season, patrons can indulge in pre-dinner drinks at The Winter Garden Cocktail Bar, an outdoor extension of Upstairs filled with natural light, plants, and more plush chairs.

Wurstkuchl In Regensburg, Germany

Translating literally to "sausage kitchen" in English, Wurstkuchl is the oldest restaurant in Germany that has served, you guessed it, homemade pork sausages since 1146. The centuries-old sausage purveyor cooks its sausages in an open charcoal grill just as it did 500 years ago. And, if a plain sausage seems a bit boring, don't worry, because Wurstkuchl also serves up sauerkraut that's fermented in-house. 

Wurstkuchl sits next to the stone bridge near the river, where stonemasons and dock workers would eat lunch and refreshments after a busy day in the Middle Ages. Whether you're more eager to try the famed Weißwürstl with homemade mustard or homemade potato soup, there are plenty of home-style Bavarian dishes to suit everyone's tastes. The Bavarian restaurant has three options for seating: the historic parlor, which seats 25, outdoor seating on the Danube beach, which seats 84, and the tavern, which seats 60.

La Puerta Falsa In Bogota, Colombia

While Europe and the U.S. are home to many of the oldest restaurants on this list, that's not to negate the rich culinary history that can be found on the other side of the world in South America. La Puerta Falsa is considered the oldest restaurant in Colombia, dating back to 1816. Located in Bogota's historic La Candelaria District, the unassuming exterior is often flanked by a long line of customers hoping to try the signature dishes that wowed Anthony Bourdain himself. 

Highlights of La Puerta Falsa's menu include tamales, which consist of a plantain leaf filled with rice, vegetables, corn dough, and melt-in-your-mouth slow-cooked meat, as well as ajiaco, a creamy soup made of potatoes, chicken, and capers. And, don't forget to try La Puerta Falsa's twist on hot chocolate, which features a mixture of rich hot chocolate served with bread and cheese on the side.

La Tour d'Argent In Paris, France

As one of the culinary capitals of the world, it's no surprise that two of the restaurants on this list are located in France. Founded in 1582, La Tour d'Argent is a Michelin-starred French restaurant in the heart of Paris. Foodies flock to this spot to eat its specialty dish, pressed duck, with a view of the Seine and Notre Dame for the ultimate Parisian experience. Coming off of its renovation in early 2023, La Tour d'Argent features a new look that's equally as magnificent as the menu curated by Chef Yannick Franques. 

From the rectangular black and white tiled floors to dishes like The Mystery of the Egg, which features an egg yolk topped with brioche crumbles, rosemary sautéed chanterelles, and grated white truffle, every aspect of the restaurant screams Michelin. Apart from the many culinary delights offered at La Tour d'Argent, the highlight of the restaurant is the panoramic 6th-floor dining room, which features floor-to-ceiling windows looking out at the city. Here, patrons can sip on a bottle of French wine from the restaurant's vast wine cellar, which features almost 300,000 bottles of wine, just as Queen Elizabeth II and Orson Welles may have when they visited the restaurant themselves.

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The Best Winter Honeymoon Destinations for an Off-Season Escape

By Shelby Wax

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While a wedding day is often described as the “best day of your life,” a honeymoon is an opportunity to go on the best vacation of your life. Not only do you get to bask in the afterglow of love and marriage with your new spouse, but it’s a socially acceptable time to take off work, go on an adventure, and be absolutely indulgent for a week or two. While couples would traditionally go on their honeymoons straight from their wedding reception, that’s not always the case today. Some couples now delay their vacation a few months so they can travel to a favorite destination at the optimum time, or take a mini-moon (aka a smaller, possibly more local trip) after the wedding and a larger honeymoon at their first anniversary. Even if you get married in the typical “wedding seasons” of spring and summer, this delay allows you to travel to some of the most incredible honeymoon spots around the globe in the winter.

While you might think a summer vacation is the way to go, traveling between December to March allows you to experience the peak seasons of some seriously luxe destinations. Whether you and your fiancé love skiing or relaxing on the beach, there is an incredible location waiting for you to relax after all your wedding planning stress. Ahead, see some of the most amazing honeymoon spots to jet off to come wintertime.

Courchevel, France

If the winter cold and snowy peaks call to you and your partner, make plans to share a chairlift together in Courchevel. Not only is the skiing incredible at this high-altitude destination in the French Alps, but luxury hotels, shops, and dining abound. One of the newest ski-in, ski-out retreats in the Courchevel 1850 region is the Six Senses Courchevel . Rather than a typical hotel suite, all 28 accommodations are apartments with their own kitchens, dining areas, and balconies. Adventurous couples can make the most of the hotel’s concierges to help arrange skiing and sleigh rides, or take some moments for R&R at the spa.

Miami, Florida

Looking to do a mini-moon after a stateside wedding? Avoid going through customs and relax in the temperate climate of Miami. The winter is peak season for the region, which boasts daily highs in the 70s. While some head to South Beach for the party, you can have a romantic and peaceful stay at The Setai Miami Beach . A favorite of Beyoncé and Jay-Z, this luxe oceanfront resort brings on the zen vibes with Asian and Art Deco-inspired architecture, three temperature-adjusted pools, and bedrooms complete with their own soaking tubs. Service is top-notch throughout so you and your new spouse won’t need to lift a finger as you float between the live entertainment at the courtyard restaurant Jaya, the spa, or a cabana for two. Of course, if you’re itching for a change of scenery, a Clefs d’Or chief concierge can assist with taking a boat out on the water or enjoying the rest of Miami’s excellent dining and nightlife scene.

By Lorena Meouchi

By Hannah Coates

By Emma Specter

As it will be summer south of the equator, a visit to Thailand is sure to be a treat. Begin your journey with a night or two exploring the food and sights of Bangkok while resting your head at the luxe Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel . Then, take a short trip down south to the island of Samui. The perfect spot for a tropical escape is the Banyan Tree Samui . Located on a private bay nestled in the jungle of Lamai, honeymooners can get some alone time at a private villa complete with their own personal concierge and sizable infinity pool. The spa is a highlight at the resort, along with top-tier Thai cuisine.

Have you and your fiancé always fantasized about a relaxing retreat in an overwater bungalow? Then make your way to the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora . Located on its own private island, the resort has 108 private bungalows (including 27 with private plunge pools) to enjoy a totally relaxing tropical retreat. While you might want to have all your meals catered to your suite, there are also four restaurants to try on the island. Boating, tennis, diving, and lagoon excursions are just a few of the fun activities guests can try at the resort, too.

Park City, Utah

While Park City is a bustling winter destination due to the Sundance Film Festival and world-class skiing, honeymooners can find a romantic retreat on the 3,500-acre grounds of The Lodge at Blue Sky . This Auberge property offers the perfect locale for both cozy winter romance and outdoor adventures. Couples can make their way to the slopes, or keep things intimate with the resort’s yurt experiences. For an even more remote escape, honeymooners can book one-bedroom Creek Houses that are a three-minute walk from the lodge with their own fireplaces and private patios alongside a running creek.

If you want to explore the rainforests of Costa Rica with your new spouse, the “dry season” of December through April is the best time to visit. As for your base camp, book a stay at Hacienda AltaGracia , a retreat that’s part of the Auberge Resort Collection. The property boasts 180 acres of forest, coffee farms, stables, and a state-of-the-art spa by The Well, along with 50 well-appointed casitas that feature stunning views, private pools, and patios. The all-inclusive stay even features airplane charters to the property’s own private airstrip to make travel to the remote location a breeze.

Bad Gastein, Austria

Fans of the slopes and mid-century modern design should make their way to the Austrian Alps to enjoy the chic accommodations of The Cōmodo, Bad Gastein . Formerly a 1960s health resort, the hotel is part of a new wave of stylish new developments in the ski town. With a focus on its tailored interiors and holistic spa services, the resort lets honeymooners enjoy an elevated escape with mountain views as stunning as the custom furniture inside.

British Virgin Islands

Want to experience what it’s like to stay on a billionaire’s private island that has been frequented by the Obamas and Princess Diana? Richard Branson’s Necker Island is an exclusive 74-acre retreat in the British Virgin Islands with luxe Great House rooms and Balinese-inspired villas open to be booked at select times of the year. The all-inclusive experience can include spa treatments, snorkeling, boating excursions, and exploring the property’s wildlife habitats. Don’t be surprised if Branson himself—who lives on the island most of the year—will ask to join you for a game of tennis or a chat near the flamingo-filled lagoons.

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• Things to Do
• Lakes and Nature
• Austria’s Most Beautiful Places, According to Austrians

Austria’s Prettiest Places, According to Austrians

Every year, the Austrian public picks the country’s most beautiful spots in a live telecast. How about visiting one of these magical places?

• 2022: Little Church of Peace
• 2021: Wiegensee Lake
• 2020: Strutz-Mühle Mill
• 2019: Lünersee Lake
• 2018: Schiederweiher Lake
• 2017: Körbersee Lake
• 2016: Kaisertal Valley
• 2015: Formarin Lake
• 2014: Green Lake

Once a year, Austria votes for its most beautiful places: For the popular TV programme "9 Plätze – 9 Schätze" (“9 Places – 9 Treasures”), each of Austria’s nine provinces nominates one particularly lovely spot, with the viewing public deciding on the overall winner. So why not visit one – or more – of these places on your next trip?

Styria Hiking Route from Glacier to Wine, Stage 2 at Friedenskircherl (Stoderzinken) Steiermark Tourismus / pixelmaker.at Stoderzinken media_content.tooltip.skipped

Most Beautiful Place 2022: Friedenskircherl on the Stoderzinken, Styria

The "Friedenskircherl" (literally: Little Church of Peace) has touched poets, comforted visitors and brought heavenly memories to hikers. It was built 120 years ago at an altitude of 1.898 metres above sea level with the goal to bring people together - no matter their religious beliefs. The chapel was never consecrated to any religious community.

How to get there: Take the toll-road up the Stoderzinken mountain and park the car around the Rosemi Alm . The 200 metres of altitude difference up to the chapel are easily manageable even for less experienced hikers.

Hike to the European nature reserve Wiegensee Montafon Tourismus GmbH, Schruns / Stefan Kothner media_content.tooltip.skipped

Most Beautiful Place 2021: Wiegensee Lake, Vorarlberg

The European nature reserve "Wiegensee" is home to a unique moor complex at around 2,000 m above sea level. Nestled in the wild mountain landscape of the Verwall high above Partenen, the area is one of the most valuable moorland habitats in Vorarlberg.

How to get there: The lake is only reachable on foot. Find some starting points and hiking suggestions here .

Most Beautiful Place 2020: Strutz-Mühle Mill, Styria

Enter the lovingly restored, 150-year-old Strutz-Mühle mill to see how flour was made in the old days and bake your own bread, then make a feast of it right outside while listening to the creek gurgle along. The surrounding area lets visitors explore the lush nature of a virtually untouched beech and spruce forest.

How to get there: The mill is located a 1 h 15 min drive south of Graz.

Most Beautiful Place 2019: Lünersee Lake, Vorarlberg

Tucked away in the very west of Austria, Lünersee lake is a natural mountain lake at 1,970 m (6,500 ft) above sea level offering a variety of activities. Take the one-and-a-half hour hike around the lake (perfect even for the little ones), go higher with a climbing tour on Kirchlispitzen or Schesaplana mountains, or try your hand at fishing for rainbow trout and arctic char in the lake itself.

How to get there: Take a train to Bludenz (direct train from Innsbruck: 1 h 45 min), then Postbus line 81 to the valley station of the Lünerseebahn cable car (exact name of the station in German: "Brand in Vlbg Lünerseebahn Talstation", a 40-minute ride), which takes you to the lake in just 6 minutes.

Most Beautiful Place 2018: Schiederweiher Lake, Upper Austria

Schiederweiher lake is a small, man-made lake in Stodertal Valley in Upper Austria. Known as the “pearl” of the valley, it features an idyllic setting, crystal-clear water that’s home to many indigenous fish, and breath-taking views of the surrounding mountains, Spitzmauer (2,446 m / 8,025 ft) and Großer Priel (2,515 m, 8,251 ft). The area can be explored via a variety of easy hiking trails – both in summer and in winter.

How to get there: Take a train to Hinterstoder (1 hour from Linz), then an easy 30-minute hike to the lake.

Most Beautiful Place 2017: Körbersee Lake, Vorarlberg

Situated in a basin at 1,656 m (5,433 ft) above sea level and surrounded by impressive mountain peaks, Körbersee lake boasts a pretty unique setting. It is up to eight metres (26 ft) deep and even in summer, only reaches temperatures of 14°C (57°F). The area around the lake is uninhabitated – save for a hotel that truly is a retreat from the rest of the world.

How to get there: The lake can only be reached on foot or (in winter) by ski. Take a train to Dornbirn (2 h 20 min from Innsbruck), then take bus 40 to Schröcken Dorf. From there, it’s a 1-hour hike to the lake.

Hinterbärenbad in the Kaisertal valley TVB Kufsteinerland media_content.tooltip.skipped

Most Beautiful Place 2016: Kaisertal Valley, Tirol

Like a trip back in time: Until 2008, this unique valley in Tirol could only be reached on foot, claiming the title of Austria’s last inhabited valley without a road link. It’s still largely car-free: Only the 44 locals are allowed to use the road. Visitors will have to climb 285 stairs to reach the picturesque St. Anthony's Chapel.

How to get there: Take a train to Kufstein (45 min from Innsbruck). Take bus line 1 (city bus) or regional bus 4030 to Kaiseraufstieg. From there, it’s a 4-hour hike to Kaisertal Valley.

Most Beautiful Place 2015: Formarin Lake and the Rote Wand (Red Wall), Vorarlberg

With its intensely blue water, Formarin lake almost has a mystical quality to it. Its backdrop is the rugged Rote Wand (Red Wall) mountain, making for a beautiful contrast. Situated at 1,793 m (5,883 ft) above sea level, the lake can be reached via a toll road or on foot.

How to get there: Take a train to Langen am Arlberg (1 h 15 min from Innbruck). Take bus 91 to Lech (25 min). From there, the Lech “Panorama Bus” takes you directly to the lake in summer. Alternatively, take the Formarinweg hiking trail from Lech to Formarin lake (5 hours).

Most Beautiful Place 2014: Grüner See (Green Lake), Styria

The first time you see a picture of Grüner See (Green lake), you might get the impression it’s not quite real: Its waters are completely clear with an emerald shimmer, and underwater, you might find surprisingly well-preserved benches and bridges. This is because the lake all but disappears in winter, and only fills back up to its usual depth of over 10 metres (33 ft) during the melting of the snow in spring. 

How to get there: Take a train to Bruck a. d. Mur (1 h 50 min from Vienna), then bus 175 to Tragöß. Walk about 30 min to Grüner See.

mountain lake Formarinsee Lech Zürs Tourismus GmbH media_content.tooltip.skipped

Lake Schiederweiher in Upper Austria TVB media_content.tooltip.skipped

The Green Lake in Styria Steiermark Tourismus / Michael Weberberger media_content.tooltip.skipped

mountain lake Formarinsee with Rote Wand mountain Vorarlberg Tourismus / Christa Branz media_content.tooltip.skipped

Lake Lünersee Brandnertal Tourismus / Joachim Stretz media_content.tooltip.skipped

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Sandoz opens new antibiotic facility in Kundl, Austria

Sandoz has invested $50.5m to open a new antibiotics production facility in Kundl, Austria, that aims to provide more patients with cost-effective medicines.

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Switzerland -based generic pharmaceuticals and biosimilars company, Sandoz has invested $50.5m (€50m) to open a new production facility in Kundl, Austria.

The 3,000m 2 manufacturing area allows for the production of an additional one billion penicillin tablets while also doubling the output of powder oral suspension (POS), primarily used in paediatric medicines. The new plant and automated manufacturing lines also add 20% to its current annual production capacity of 200 million packages.

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Richard Saynor, CEO of Sandoz, said: “Kundl, as the hub and centre of our antibiotic production, is a true lighthouse project when it comes to the security of antibiotic supply. This investment is our contribution to fighting shortages and increasing access for patients. To be successful in the future, we need to join forces across healthcare systems and build a sustainable market environment for generic medicines, focused on what is best for patients.”

Part of its European-based production network, the opening of the new facility is part of a €200m investment into the site in Kundl, to upgrade penicillin API manufacturing and increase the output of finished products.

Headquartered in Basel, Sandoz Group AG develops, manufactures, distributes, and sells a range of prescription medicines, proteins, and biosimilars worldwide. It has over 20,000 employees worldwide.

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