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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.

Suggested Read: 10 Best Water Parks In Austria

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.

Suggested Read: World’s First Beer Pool In Austria

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.

Suggested Read: Snowbombing In Austria

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.

Suggested Read: Mosques In Austria

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

Image Credit: Wildfaces by Pixabay

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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Glorious Alpine scenery, monumental Habsburg architecture, and the world’s favourite musical – Austria’s tourist industry certainly plays up to the clichés. However, it’s not all bewigged Mozart ensembles and schnitzel; modern Austria boasts some of Europe’s most varied museums and contemporary architecture not to mention attractive and sophisticated cities whose bars, cafés and clubs combine contemporary cool with elegant tradition.

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Austria and Czechia are home to some of the world's most beautiful architecture and culture gems, such as Schloss Schönbrunn in Vienna, Prague castle, the fortress above Salzburg and many more. Finish your tour with a visit to Schloss Neuschwanstein before flying out of Munich.

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• Population 8.47 million
• Language German
• Currency Euro (€)
• Capital Vienna
• International phone code t 43
• Time zone GMT +1hr

Long the powerhouse of the Habsburg Empire, Austria underwent decades of change and uncertainty in the early twentieth century. Shorn of her empire and racked by economic difficulties, the state fell prey to the promises of Nazi Germany. Only with the end of the Cold War did Austria return to the heart of Europe, joining the EU in 1995.

Politics aside, Austria is primarily known for two contrasting attractions – the fading imperial glories of the capital, and the stunning beauty of its Alpine hinterland. Vienna is the gateway to much of central Europe and a good place to soak up the culture of Mitteleuropa .

Less renowned provincial capitals such as Graz and Linz are surprising pockets of culture, innovation and vitality. Salzburg , between Innsbruck and Vienna, represents urban Austria at its most picturesque, an intoxicating Baroque city within easy striking distance of the mountains and lakes of the Salzkammergut , while the most dramatic of Austria’s Alpine scenery is west of here, in and around Tyrol , whose capital, Innsbruck , provides the best base for exploration.

If you are looking for great travel experiences in Austria while avoiding the crowd, check out our tips here.

Without a visit to Vienna you’ll return home with only half the picture. Built on a grand scale as seat of the Habsburg Empire, it’s a place that positively drips with imperial nostalgia.The pickings are rich, with the old palaces of the Hofburg and Schönbrunn high on the list, as are the cultural offerings from the gargantuan art collections of the Kunsthistorisches Museum to the new cultural complex of the MuseumsQuartier.

Equally compelling, nowadays, are the ghosts of Vienna’s golden age at the end of the nineteenth century, when the likes of Freud, Klimt, Schiele and Schönberg frequented the city’s cafés.The city boasts some wonderful Jugendstil and early modernist buildings and a bevy of traditional fin-de-siècle cafés patrolled by waiters in tuxedos. Last, but by no means least,Vienna is by far the best place in the country for night- life, and that means everything from top-class opera to techno.

Salzburg is no less intoxicating. Its Altstadt contains the country’s most concentrated ensemble of Baroque architecture, and the Hohensalzburg fortress is arguably the country’s most impressive medieval castle. A substantial musical pedigree is ensured by the city’s status as the birthplace of Mozart and venue of the Salzburg Festival, one of the world’s most renowned celebrations of classical music and theatre.

Of Austria’s other regional capitals, Innsbruck combines both a buzzing 9 nightlife and close proximity to some of the Tyrol’s highest peaks to make it one of Austria’s most popular destinations. Its attractive and largely medieval city centre focuses on the Hofkirche, site of the memorial to sixteenth-century Habsburg strongman Emperor Maximilian I.

In the Styrian capital, Graz, the main attractions are the Altstadt, the fine-art collections of the Landesmuseum Joanneum and the Baroque Eggenberg Palace. Austria’s second largest city is also a good base from which to venture out into the vineyards and pumpkin fields of the rural southeast.

Top image: Hallstatt village © Rastislav Sedlak SK/Shutterstock

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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

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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

From palace to peak: the 10 best things to do in Austria

Nov 1, 2021 • 9 min read

Cruise the Grossglockner Road for one of the best experiences in Austria © Shutterstock / ktm-zu

Ask someone to rattle off Austria’s unmissables and they’ll most probably rave about Vienna and its lavish feast of palaces, coffee houses, concert halls and galleries, and the heart-racing trails and slopes that traverse the snow-dusted Alps that ripple across half of the country. 

Worthy though these are, this pocket-sized alpine fantasy of a country has lesser-known surprises up its sleeve: from waterfalls and ice caves to sky-high mountain drives and the quiet beauty of the Danube, where abbeys, vineyards and ruined castles guide the eye around each romantic bend.

We’ve combed the country to pick the experiences you really shouldn’t overlook. Read on for our take on the 10 best things to do in Austria.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road 

Tossing you in at the deep end of the Austrian Alps and slated for Unesco World Heritage status, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Hohe Tauern National Park is one drive where the wow never leaves your lips (and your foot rarely leaves the break). Twisting from Bruck in Salzburgerland to Heiligenblut in Carinthia and with an average gradient of 9%, this rollercoaster road is 48km (30mi) of stomach-flipping hairpin bends and whoa-look-at-that-mountain moments.

Tear your gaze fleetingly away from the road and you’ll be gobsmacked by waterfalls, jewel-colored lakes and, from the highest viewpoint, Edelweiss Spitze (2571m, 8435ft), a sea of snow-capped summits punching high above the 3000m mark. All of this is the drumroll to Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, where you can eyeball mighty Grossglockner (3798m, 12460ft), Austria’s highest peak, and the Pasterze Glacier.

Get an early start to beat the crowds, as the road is often bumper-to-bumper by noon, especially in July and August. Check forecasts, too, as the drive isn’t fun in snow or storms. 

Krimml Falls 

When the snows melt, falls spill down many a rugged cliff face in the Austrian Alps, but none prepare you for the crash-bang spectacle of the 380m-high, mist-dashed Krimmler Wasserfälle in the remote, mountainous Pinzgau Valley in Salzburgerland. Often kissed by a rainbow, Europe’s highest falls drop over thickly forested slopes and boulders with a thunderous roar. 

You’ll feel like a tiny, insignificant speck on the face of the earth confronted with the grand force and scale of these falls (rather a pleasant sensation, as it happens). They are best seen from certain angles, notably the Wasserfallweg (Waterfall Trail), a path zigzagging up through woods to viewpoints commanding photogenic close-ups of the three-tiered falls. Factor in around two hours for the return walk.

Palaces of Vienna 

During their 640-year reign, the Habsburg royals collected bombastic palaces the way others collect stamps, enlisting the finest architects of the age to give full flight to their opulent fantasies and stuffing their splendid chambers with beautiful things (treasures, antique porcelain, prancing horses, flattering portraits of themselves - you name it). If you like nothing better than a good romp around a palace, you’ll find a whirl of them in Vienna . 

Top of any itinerary is the vast, exuberant Hofburg , Vienna’s Imperial Palace, where you can spend an entire day gawping at imperial jewels in the treasury , listening to choir boys sing angelically at the chapel (every Sunday from September to June), swanning around chandelier-lit apartments designed for Empress Elisabeth, and marveling at the grace of the snow-white Lipizzaner stallions that dance at the Spanish Riding School . 

The Hofburg is rivaled in grandeur by the 1441-room Schloss Schönbrunn , a Unesco World Heritage site and summer palace like no other, and baroque-gone-mad Schloss Belvedere , where you can get a glimpse of Klimt’s Kiss both set in exquisitely landscaped gardens.

Eisriesenwelt  

Visiting the frozen underworld of Eisriesenwelt , the world’s largest accessible ice cave, is like stepping through the wardrobe into Narnia. A maze of wondrously sparkling ice passageways, vaults, chambers high as cathedrals and lakes, sculpted over millennia, awaits beneath the limestone spires and turrets of the Tennengebirge range in Salzburgerland. The highlight is the ethereal blue Eispalast (ice palace), where frost crystals glitter when a magnesium flare illuminates them. 

You’ll see all of this by grabbing a carbide lamp and hooking onto one of the regular guided tours leading deep into the heart of the mountain, which run roughly from May to October. The insanely pretty, fortress-topped town of Werfen is the starting point for hitting the ice caves, with minibuses linking up to cable cars that swing you up to the trail to the entrance. Make sure you bring thermals, as temperatures dip below zero even in summer.  

Best for autumn

With wooded peaks rising sheer and rugged, and a storybook cluster of chalets peering vainly into a looking-glass lake, Hallstatt is an absolute knockout. This obscenely lovely village is one of the fairest in Salzkammergut lakes. Its looks haven’t gone unnoticed, however: the village gets swamped by day-trippers in summer, so time your visit wisely for greater peace. Spring and autumn are glorious. The anticipation mounts the moment you arrive, with boats gliding across the lake from the train station to the village, prettily plonked on a narrow stretch of land between mountain and shore.

The lake makes for compulsive viewing, but venture further and you’ll be glad you did. A funicular lifts you up to Salzwelten , where you can race into the depths of the world’s oldest salt mine on miners’ slides. While you’re up here, brave a stroll on the Skywalk platform, jutting out lake and mountain, with views that leave you speechless. 

Outdoor adventure in Tyrol

Best for skiing.

While you can find pulse-quickening outdoor pursuits in any given corner of the Austrian Alps, Tyrol has the year-round edge – whether you want to glacier ski or hike above the treeline from hut to Alpine hut. Innsbruck is a cracking base for striking out into the wilds, with funiculars winging you from city to the slopes of the ragged Nordkette range in mere minutes.

In summer, you can throw yourself down foaming turquoise rivers – like the Inn and Sanna – whitewater rafting, if you dare. Or find thermals as you float above the Alps paragliding in the Zillertal . The region offers boundless possibilities for hikers, too, whether you want a no-sweat stroll with glacier views or a tough, peak-bagging multi-day trek heading properly off the beaten track. Cable cars give mountain bikers a head-start to high-altitude and downhill routes. Ischgl’s Silvretta Mountain Bike Academy is a particular favorite. 

When winter brings a seasonal dump of snow, the focus switches to skiing. St Anton am Arlberg is the dream for many, with tough slopes, tremendous off-piste and a party-hard après-ski scene. Mayrhofen thrills with freestyle boarding and leap-into-the-void black runs like the Harakiri, while ritzy Kitzbühel delivers the perfect mix of cruisy runs and a snowpark.  

Musical Salzburg  

With its high-on-a-hill fortress, dome-encrusted baroque Old Town, cliffs dropping to the river like a theatre curtain and phenomenal Alpine backdrop, the city of Salzburg looks perfectly orchestrated – and this is no coincidence. 

Music is in Salzburg’s blood, whether you’re into warbling nuns hitting the high notes on their way to mass (cue The Sound of Music, filmed here in the 1960s) or Mozart concertos (Austria’s superstar composer was born here in 1756 and his music still rocks many venues today). Then there is the big one: summer’s Salzburg Festival, first staged in 1920, is now a classical music fest of epic proportions, with a high-calibre line-up of opera, concerts and drama, held at grand concert halls and plazas all over the city. 

There are many ways to get your groove on in Salzburg, from singing your heart out to The Sound of Music classics as you whizz around film locations with Fräulein Maria's Bicycle Tours to intimate chamber chamber music concerts in the baroque marble hall of Schloss Mirabell .

Danube Cycle Path

You can hike, drive, take a boat or train, but there’s no finer way to see the Danube Valley than with your bum in a saddle. Weaving 236 miles (380km) from Passau to Bratislava , the long-distance Danube Cycle Path is ideal for freewheeling, opening up the riverscapes in the most delightful fashion: Baroque abbeys and castles sit high and mighty on rocky outcrops, woodlands sweep down to deep valleys and orchards, and vineyards stagger down to villages that break up the ride nicely with some of the country’s best food and wine.

The icing on the cake is The Wachau , a stretch of the river so darned lovely it has been awarded Unesco World Heritage status. Allow ample time here to glimpse such treasures as riotously baroque Stift Melk , an abbey complex of epic proportions, and the romantic ruins of Dürnstein’s medieval castle , where Richard the Lionheart was once incarcerated.

Coffeehouse culture in Vienna 

Spending a lazy afternoon in one of Vienna’s coffeehouses is your fast-track ticket to the city’s soul. Nowhere captures the nostalgic warmth of Gemütlichkeit better than the Kaffeehaus. They come in all shapes and styles: from grungy and poster plastered to grand but faded and full-on palatial, with vaulted marble interiors, highly polished silver and pianists. 

Step into one today and the clock rewinds to the 19th century, when great artists, poets, philosophers and painters played chess, plotted career moves and set the world to rights over coffee and cake (Trotsky, Freud and Klimt among them). 

Austria has been obsessed with coffee ever since Turks left behind sacks of coffee beans (then believed to be camel fodder) at the city gates when they fled during the Battle of Vienna in 1683. Roasting the beans and adding a dash of milk, cream and sugar, the Viennese began to create their own mini world and lexicon of coffees:  Verlängerter (Americano), Melange (cappuccino) and Brauner (espresso).

Chandelier-lit Café Sacher does the best chocolate cake, Café Central is terribly posh and Café Sperl is nicely bohemian, but you’re bound to find your own personal favorite.

Hohe Tauern National Park 

You’ll never get higher in Austria than in Hohe Tauern National Park . Mother Nature really excelled herself when she let rip on one of Europe’s biggest nature reserves, spreading across a whopping 1856 sq km (716 sq mi) and straddling three states (Tyrol, Carinthia and Salzburgerland). 

No amount of waxing lyrical about glinting glaciers, eternally ice-capped peaks, bluer-than-blue lakes and roaring falls can ever match the reality. With Grossglockner lording it over the lot, these are landscapes that beggar belief, which you can only really see by striking out on foot: hiking and climbing in summer, or ski touring through the vast, snowy backcountry in winter. 

To ramp up the adventure in the park in the company of a well-informed pro, sign up for one of the park’s guided ranger hikes from July to September, many of which are free with the local guest card. These swing from herb-discovery trails to around-the-glacier tours. Or for more serious action, check out Bergführer Kals ’ activities, which include Alpine ascents, ski touring and ice climbing. For everything else, try the park visitor center  in Mittersill.

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Vienna   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Christoph Hetzmannseder | Getty Images

18 Best Things to Do in Vienna, Austria

Vienna is a city that relishes its past, and it has the attractions to prove it. The historic city center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and whether you're interested in the long-reigning Habsburg family; music composed by Vienna's own

• All Things To Do

Hofburg Palace Hofburg Palace

Unlike Vienna's other royal residences, Hofburg is like a city within a city. Sitting on the southwestern edge of the Innere Stadt , the 13th-century palace was the winter residence of the Habsburgs, and a center of power for some 600 years. These days, the Hofburg Palace is residence and office of the President of Austria, however extensive parts of the palace are still open to visitors.

One area of the palace is the Sisi Museum, named after Empress Elisabeth, wife of Emperor Franz Joseph, with more than 300 objects on display. The Sisi Museum offers insights both into the grandeur of the Habsburgs and into the life and death of Vienna's beloved Empress Elizabeth. You can also explore the Imperial Apartments ( Kaiserappartements ) where the royal family lived. Though Hofburg has about 2,600 rooms, only 18 are open for the public to tour. The oldest parts surround the Swiss Wing ( Schweizertrakt ), named for the Swiss guards who used to patrol the area. (Unfortunately, the silver collection is closed until further notice.)

Schönbrunn Palace Schönbrunn Palace

Originally constructed from 1696 as a grand hunting lodge, Schönbrunn Palace later became the official Hapsburg summer residence. Under the supervision of Maria Theresa (the only female Habsburg ruler), Schönbrunn evolved into an expansive paradise with ornate rooms and vast elaborate gardens comparable to King Louis XIV of France's palace at Versailles . One of the finest baroque palaces in Europe, Schönbrunn was one of the first places in Austria to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, back in 1996. A tour will lead you through apartments belonging to Maria Theresa as well as Emperor Franz Joseph, his wife Elisabeth (better known as Sisi) and Archduke Franz Karl. Other highlights include the Blue Staircase, the Mirror Room and the Hall of Ceremonies. Plan to spend at least an hour in the gardens, which are connected by promenades that extend from the Gloriette, a stunning Roman-style arch overlooking a vast pool. Located within the grounds is the Tiergarten , the oldest zoo in the world.

Travelers say the grounds are beautiful, the tour is insightful and the zoo is entertaining for the whole family, but many warn about how crowded this attraction gets. Some suggest visiting first thing in the morning to avoid the congested atmosphere. Others wish there had been more information about the history within the rooms themselves.

MuseumsQuartier Wien MuseumsQuartier Wien

U.S. News Insider Tip: The area between the MuseumsQuartier and Naschmarkt – especially along and leading off Gumpendorfer Strasse – is a great place to explore for small, trendy bars and boutique stores. – Rudolf Abraham

Straddling the southwest section of the Ringstrasse, the MuseumsQuartier Wien is an enormous cultural institution comprising numerous top-notch museums. If you're even remotely interested in art, head to the Leopold Museum , which houses an exceptionally impressive collection of Austrian masterpieces dating from the 19th century to the present – including major works by Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka and Egon Schiele (it's the world's largest collection of works by Schiele). Next door, the Museum of Modern Art (aka MUMOK) is home to the national collection of 20th-century works by famed artists like Max Ernst, Rene Magritte and Andy Warhol. Adjacent to MUMOK, the Kunsthalle Wien showcases an ever-rotating collection of avant-garde exhibits featuring contemporary art.

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St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) free

Towering above the streets of the Innere Stadt , this massive cathedral is one of the true centerpieces of Vienna. St. Stephen's has stood in this very spot since the early 13th century (having replaced an even earlier church), but little remains of this Romanesque construction aside from the Riesentor (Giant's Door) and the Heidenturme (Towers of the Heathens). The Gothic structure standing today was built in the early 1300s. It was here that Mozart was married to Constanze Weber in 1782, and it was here that the great composer's funeral was held in 1791. Despite parts of it being heavily damaged by fire in the final year of World War II, it was painstakingly repaired. Today this stunning cathedral remains an active house of worship, a national icon and a top tourist attraction.

After you've toured the main section, head underground to the catacombs where you'll find the tombs of members of the Habsburg royal family, along with various cardinals, archbishops and victims of the Great Plague of Vienna. Before you leave, you should climb the 343 steps to the top of the South Tower, from where you'll be treated to a spectacular view. Or use the elevator to reach the lookout terrace at the lower, never-completed North Tower, which is also home to the largest church bell in Austria, known as Pummerin. Visitors call this one of those "must-visit" attractions in Europe, praising the gorgeous church and its surroundings.

Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum) Museum of Fine Arts (Kunsthistorisches Museum)

The works at the Kunsthistorisches Museum , or Museum of Fine Arts, range from ancient Egyptian and Greek objects to masterpieces by numerous European masters, including Titian, Velasquez, Van Dyck and Rubens. In fact, the collection here is so extensive that many people say the walls of the Hofburg Palace look bare in comparison. The building itself, which opened to the public in 1891, impresses travelers as well; its facade features ornate sculptures.

Recent travelers appreciated the wide range of work on display at this museum and note just how large the building is and how much art is held within. A few suggested breaking up the day with a quick cup of coffee at the on-site coffee shop, which is in the museum's beautiful domed hall.

Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere) Belvedere Palace (Schloss Belvedere)

If you can't get your art fix at either the MuseumsQuartier or the Kunsthistorisches Museum , you're sure to find satisfaction at the Belvedere. There are actually two palaces here – separated by an ornate 17th-century French-style garden – which some say are among the best examples of Baroque architecture in the world. Formerly home to such notable Austrian figures as Prince Eugene of Savoy and Archduke Franz Ferdinand, the buildings now house an outstanding array of Austrian art from such renowned artists as Gustav Klimt (including his famous painting "The Kiss"), Egon Schiele and Oskar Kokoschka. It's in the Upper Palace that you'll find works by these and other artists from the permanent collection, while the Lower Palace houses temporary exhibitions. A third, modern building, Belvedere 21, acts as an arts and performance venue and is located just across the main road. It has just a few exhibits on at any given time. Travelers love the gardens, ornate buildings and array of paintings on display at this attraction. Many warn of large crowds.

The Belvedere sits just southeast of the Innere Stadt,  between the Wieden and Landstrasse districts. It is open every day from 9 a.m. (Upper Belvedere) and 10 a.m. (Lower Belvedere) to 6 p.m. When purchased online, entrance to both sites costs 24 euros (about $26) for adults. Youths 18 and younger always explore for free. You should definitely book tickets online, as entry is limited by time slots and these do sell out. For Belvedere 21, you only need to specify the day of your visit, not the time. Guided tours are available and there are a variety of combo ticket packages available as well. For more information, visit the palace's website .

Leopold Museum Leopold Museum

Part of the excellent MuseumsQuartier Wien , the Leopold Museum houses one of greatest collections of Austrian art anywhere in the world. Along with major works by the likes of Gustav Klimt, Oskar Kokoschka, Richard Gerstl and Max Oppenheimer, the Leopold Museum includes the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of works by Egon Schiele.

The main part of the museum is the permanent exhibition, Vienna 1900, which takes you through the most important artistic developments and changes in Vienna around the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th centuries, the last decades of the Habsburg rule. If you only have time to visit one museum to see works from the Viennese Secession (the local style of art nouveau), the Leopold Museum gives the best overview. Visitors commented on the exceptional quality of the artworks on display, the clear and spacious layout of the museum, and the pleasant café.

Austrian National Library Austrian National Library free

On one side of the Hofburg 's Neue Burg wing, and entered off Josefsplatz, is the Austrian National Library. The main reason to come here is the spectacular State Hall ( Prunksaal ), built for Emperor Charles VI in the 1720s, as the former Court Library. The State Hall was painstakingly restored in 2022.

Forget any ideas of what a library looks like – the Prunksaal is a baroque masterpiece. Some 80 meters (around 262 feet) long and 20 meters (about 66 feet) high, the State Hall is lavishly decorated with stucco, marble and gilding. A statue of Charles VI stands in the center of the hall, likely the work of Venetian sculptor Antonio Corradini. There are more than a dozen other statues in the hall of Austrian dukes and Habsburg rulers, by the Strudel brothers (one of whom, Paul Strudel, also worked on Vienna's Plague Column or Trinity Column, erected as a memorial after the Great Plague in 1679). The hall also contains four enormous Venetian globes. Perhaps most impressive however is the soaring oval dome, 30 meters (98 feet) high and decorated with breathtaking frescoes by the Habsburg court painter Daniel Gran, whose other work includes frescoes at the famous Klosterneuburg Abbey.

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Museum Judenplatz Museum Judenplatz

U.S. News Insider Tip: Make a point of visiting the excellent Sigmund Freud Museum, housed in Freud's former apartment and practice. It's less than a mile north of Judenplatz. – Rudolf Abraham

Judenplatz earned its name back in the 13th century when it was first designated as the Jewish Ghetto. For two centuries, this neighborhood remained the epicenter of Jewish life in Vienna, an identity that still lives among the exhibits found at the Museum Judenplatz. This small yet effective branch of the Jewish Museum Vienna (located a little south of Judenplatz) details the role Viennese Jews played in the development of city life and the persecution and expulsion of the Medieval Jewish community on the 1420s.

Café Central Café Central

One of the most famous coffee houses in Vienna, Café Central was established in 1876. Right up until the eve of the Second World War, this landmark spot was a favorite meeting place of Vienna's poets and intellectuals (many of whom were Jewish). Sigmund Freud and some of Austria's most famous writers including Stefan Zweig, Peter Altenberg and Arthur Schnitzler – not to mention Russian revolutionary Leon Trotsky – frequented the cafe's tables. Given its former clientele, you can guess the cafe is an incredibly grand and atmospheric place – not somewhere you order a coffee to-go. Café Central occupies the ground floor of a magnificent building, awash with ornate decoration and Italian flourishes, which was originally home to the stock exchange and central bank.

Along with plenty of delicious cakes and pastries, Café Central serves classic Austrian dishes such as Wiener schnitzel and Tafelspitz (boiled beef in broth). Try the house sandwich (organic turkey-ham and mozzarella, served warm). They also have some vegetarian and vegan dishes on the menu. Recent travelers commented on the beautiful setting, impeccable coffee, top-notch service and excellent pastries.

Naschmarkt Naschmarkt free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Along with all the food stalls and multiple options for late night or Asian-infused dining, the Naschmarkt area is one of the city's best for LGBTQ+-friendly bars. – Rudolf Abraham

Every Monday through Saturday, hundreds of vendors flock to this vibrant market in the Mariahilf District – located just south of the Ringstrasse – to sell fresh fruit and vegetables, meat, dairy products and other local food items. This open-air extravaganza, Naschmarkt, is considered one of the largest of its kind in Austria, and it's a great intro into everyday life in Vienna. There has been a market here since at least the late 18th century. In addition to the food stalls, you'll find small eateries and cafés throughout.

House of Music (Haus der Musik) House of Music (Haus der Musik)

Vienna has long been a musical epicenter. It was here that renowned composers, such as Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, Mahler, Bruckner and Strauss lived, composed and performed at various points in their careers. If this history entices you, you must visit the House of Music ( Haus der Musik ) during your time in the city. This small but fascinating museum showcases the works of Vienna's elite musicians with displays featuring manuscripts and sound bites. Exhibits also explain the evolution of sound and the mechanics behind our ability to hear. Plus, there's an entire floor dedicated to the Vienna Philharmonic where you can even use a virtual wand to conduct the musicians. (But be careful: If you mess up they may ridicule you!) It's a great place to visit with kids, too. The facility also hosts a variety of concerts.

Travelers say if you're a classical music fan (or even a fan of the science of sound), a visit to the House of Music should be a priority. They also enjoy all the interactive elements.

St. Peter's Catholic Church St. Peter's Catholic Church free

St. Peter's Catholic Church ( Peterskirche ), which stands in the heart of the Inner Stadt close to St. Stephen's Cathedral , is one of most outstanding examples of baroque architecture in Vienna. Consecrated in 1733, it was built on the site of an earlier, Romanesque church first mentioned in the 12th century, which was destroyed by fire in the 1660s. It, in turn, probably stood on the site of an even earlier church, which sat upon the site of Roman Vindobona. Today's church makes up for its relatively compact size with its soaring dome and exceptionally lavish decoration.

The richly decorated interior features a gilded pulpit by Matthias Steinl (one of the leading baroque artists on Austria), and a magnificent baroque organ (with more than 2,000 pipes). The show-stealer however is the dazzling fresco cycle beneath the dome, the work of Johann Michael Rottmayr. Outside the church there's a relief from 1906 depicting the legendary founding of the church by Charlemagne. Travelers commented on the beauty of the decoration, and the surprising opulence of the interior compared to the relatively simple exterior. Stepping into the church always comes as a rather breathtaking surprise.

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Vienna's Tiergarten Vienna's Tiergarten

It began in 1752 as an exotic menagerie amassed by Franz Stephan, the husband of Maria Theresa (the only female Hapsburg ruler) and the country's Holy Roman Emperor. Today, Vienna's Tiergarten (also known as Schönbrunn Zoo or Vienna Zoo) is the oldest zoo in the world, home to about 750 animal species (around 8,500 animals total) ranging from tigers to lemurs – and most famously, pandas (it's one of the few zoos outside China to have these rare animals). The zoo hosts special tours and there are daily feedings that visitors can watch, with animals like orangutans, elephants, penguins and otters.

Since its founding, Tiergarten has undergone many a renovation to bring it up to par with modern facilities. Travelers say that while the cost of admission is on the pricey side, it's worth it to see the variety of animals and impressive facilities at this zoo.

Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper) Vienna State Opera (Staatsoper)

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss the landmark Secession Building, just a short walk from the Vienna State Opera. Head down to the basement to see Klimt's amazing "Beethoven Frieze," while listening to Beethoven's "Ode to Joy" from the Symphony No. 9 on headphones provided. – Rudolf Abraham

Since 1869, the Vienna State Opera has been the city's premier venue for the performing arts and a major focal point of Viennese life. One of the world's greatest opera houses, the Staatsoper still hosts top-notch performances (and each seat has its own small subtitles screen), and you can also tour this magnificent building on a guided tour. The 40-minute tours run every day (times vary depending on the performance schedule) and allow you a behind-the-scenes look at this beloved landmark. Tours come highly recommended by previous visitors. 

Burggarten Burggarten free

Behind the Neue Burg wing of the Hofburg , the Burggarten is a charming city park. It was originally created in the wake of Napoleon's withdrawal from Vienna in 1809 as a private garden for the imperial family. Completed around 1819, it wasn't opened to the public until 100 years later – in 1919 – following Emperor Franz Joseph I's death in 1916.

As well as being a beautiful and peaceful place to take a break from sightseeing, the Burggarten is also home to the Mozart Monument. Unveiled in 1896, this famous monument originally stood in front of the Albertina Palace, but was damaged by bombing during World War II. After restoration it was relocated to the Burggarten. The monument is a top Vienna photo-op, especially in spring when the flowerbeds are in bloom, which are shaped like a large treble clef. Other statues in the Burggarten include one of Emperor Franz Josef.

Spanish Riding School Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School, part of the Hofburg Palace complex, is one of the most celebrated riding academies in the world. It carries on a 450-year-old tradition of classical dressage (meticulous, careful training to achieve almost balletic movements and perfect harmony between horse and rider), featuring the beautiful white Lipizzaner horses (the younger animals are grey) which go through years of training. The stud farm is located in the village of Piber, southwest of Vienna.

Performances and Morning Exercise sessions take place in the Winter Riding School – built under Charles VI in the 1720s and 1730s – and are accompanied by classical music. During a Performance, you can see the horses and riders at the epitome of their technique, whereas the Morning Exercises are training sessions and include younger horses as well as the fully trained stallions. Guided tours are also available. Regular tours take in all the main areas, including the stables and the Winter and Summer Riding Schools, and last an hour. The 80-minute Architectural tours explore the baroque style of the Winter Riding School and takes you up into its elaborate, wooden roof structure.

Maria-Theresien-Platz Maria-Theresien-Platz free

Named after the Empress Maria Theresa, this large square framed by grand architecture lies between the Hofburg Palace and the MuseumsQuartier , alongside the busy Ringstrasse. The only female Habsburg ruler, Maria Theresa was empress from 1740 to 1780, a challenging period for the Habsburg monarchy which began with territorial losses and political conflict. However, Maria Theresa proved herself by leaving the empire a stronger and more stable one than the one she inherited. During her lifetime she instigated a wide range of reforms from agriculture and education to medicine and the military.

A huge monument to Empress Maria Theresa stands at the center of the square, dating from the late 19th century. The prominent neo-baroque sculptor Kaspar von Zumbusch spent more than a decade working on the project. The bronze sculpture of the Empress sits enthroned on top of a granite plinth and pedestal, above sculptures of her advisors, administrators, military commanders and figures from the sciences and arts (including Mozart as a child). The imposing monument stands more than 62 feet (the figure of Maria Theresa alone is nearly 20 feet tall). Travelers say the structure is beautiful but you won't need much time for the square itself.

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The Best Times to Visit Austria, According to Locals

Cozy mountain weekends, alpine hikes, and glamorous nights out in Vienna await.

DieterMeyrl/Getty Images

If you’ve been dreaming of a city escape or an alpine getaway in Austria, there's no better time than the present to start planning. From hiking in the Alps and swimming in glacial lakes to skiing, waltzing, and exploring some of Europe’s most impressive architecture, the list of things to do in Austria is vast and varied. Depending on your ideal adventure, you’ll want to book your trip at the appropriate time of year. Austria's travel seasons are:

• High Season:  May through August 
• Shoulder Seasons: April to May, September to October
• Low Season:  November to March
• Ski Season:  Late November to April

Austrian winters are defined by a few things, namely ball season and ski season . “The ball season in February, which is counted as Vienna’s fifth season of the year, is one of a kind," says Tina Haselbacher, owner of Almanac Hotels . "It’s the highlight on social calendars, as everyone gathers to dance and celebrate Viennese culture.” The colder months are also the perfect time to head to the mountains for a bit of downhill skiing. “I’d save any alpine trips for the beginning of December to April, and alternate this with a city break from April to December,” says Claudia Epp, general manager of The Arula Chalets . 

Travelers looking to explore Austria’s larger cities — namely Vienna, Graz, Linz, and Salzburg  — should consider the shoulder seasons. “In the cities, May, September, and October tend to be most pleasant," says Michael Gigl, head of market U.S.A. at the Austrian Tourist Office . "Summers have become warmer in recent years (something that Vienna e.g. is actively addressing by greening the city even more)." If you’d rather come during the summer, Gigl recommends July and August for visiting Austria’s mountain and lake regions.

Keep reading to discover the best times to travel to Austria, whether you’re looking to avoid crowds, save money, or enjoy Christmas markets, Viennese balls, and après-ski activities.

Best Times to Visit Austria for Smaller Crowds

Deanna Mazzola/Travel + Leisure

The shoulder months — April, early May, September, and October — are the best times to visit Austria if you want to avoid crowds. “Our main cities, like Vienna or Salzburg, tend to be busiest during the summer season, from May through September,” says Gigl. Although, he notes, “Overcrowding is less of an issue in Vienna compared to some other cities, [which is] especially notable while museum hopping. A visit to the Kunshistorisches Museum, the Belvedere, or the Albertina is decidedly less hectic or crowded in comparison to other world-class cultural institutions.”

Best Times to Visit Austria for Good Weather

There are different types of “good weather” in Austria, and it depends on the season and your itinerary. “The winters are stunning with snow on the slopes and outdoor activities, from skiing to wandering the street markets,” says Haselbacher. Just make sure you pack the appropriate gear; temperatures in the winter tend to hover around — and a little below — freezing. The mountains will also be colder than the cities.  If you prefer warmer weather, plan your visit during June, July, or August, when temperatures can reach the mid-80s and the sun doesn’t set until after 8 p.m. Summer is great for experiencing “the outdoor pools, Prater Park in Vienna, and heading out into the mountains for hiking and biking,” Haselbacher adds. If you’re exclusively visiting Austria’s cities, Epp recommends the spring or the autumn, “when the heat is more bearable.”

Best Times to Visit Austria for Lower Prices

Hotel prices will vary depending on where and when you’re visiting Austria. “Vienna’s hotel rates can be influenced by major congresses and conventions, often in June, September, or October," says Gigl. "Salzburg room demand is highest during the Salzburg Festival season [from] late July through August.”

Outside of the larger events, Haselbacher says, “Prices tend to drop in the summer when temperatures rise, and in January when the Christmas season and festivities are over and before the ball season kicks into high gear.” Prices also reflect demand in the mountains, where “prices soar during the winter season, particularly over the festive period,” says Epp. 

Worst Times to Visit Austria

“Austria has a variety of events and experiences for all interests,” says Haselbacher, “and there really is no bad time to visit.” You may, however, want to avoid the height of summer, particularly if you prefer air conditioning, which is not as common in Europe as it is in the United States.

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.

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The Top 10 Safest Countries In Europe To Visit in 2024

D reaming of a European adventure but prioritizing safety? It may be difficult to decide where to travel with so many nations to choose from. Living in or visiting a nation that is deemed “safe” is undoubtedly a luxury, but when it comes to vacations and international travel, it’s sometimes an afterthought. Planning your vacation might go more smoothly if you are aware of which nations are considered safe for visitors to visit before booking your trip. The following list compiles the top ten safest European nations to go to in 2024, along with some key safety indicators like crime rates, political stability and healthcare systems. Let’s find you the perfect European haven for your next unforgettable escapade.

Why Does Travel Safety Matter?

There’s usually a list of “must-haves” that a country has to have, regardless of whether you visit or plan to live there permanently. We are all familiar with the typical must-haves: stunning scenery, advanced infrastructure, a wide range of activities, etc. All of the aforementioned elements are important to Nomad Capitalists, but we also give top priority to things like tax breaks, a welcoming business climate, and investment opportunities.

However, safety is the one consideration that takes precedence over all others. Even if the nation became the most developed, tax-free investment destination, people would still be afraid of touching it with a rod if they felt insecure. Fortunately, Europe continues to be the world’s most tranquil continent.

The Top 10 Safest Countries In Europe to Visit

A safe environment consists of several layers. Not every safety talk touches on issues of law and order or violent crime statistics. Safety also includes general perception, healthcare and the political environment. In light of everything, the safest nations in Europe are:

Iceland has remained on top of the list of safest countries in Europe for ten years in a row. Known as “the land of fire and ice” because of its untamed terrain, it is regarded as one of the safest regions in Europe because of its persistently low crime rate, excellent standard of living and unnecessary reliance on unarmed police.

Iceland boasts robust social networks and a deep sense of community. Nearly 98% of Icelanders claim to know someone they can depend on in an emergency. One of the key benefits of living on an island with a tight-knit community is that crime rates remain low because people know one another and can support one another in situations of need. It is also the third happiest nation in the world, based on the World Happiness Report.

Even if you’re traveling alone, the nation is among the safest countries in Europe for female travelers. Schedule a visit to this secure European nation to increase your chances of seeing the fabled Northern Lights. Make a reservation for the Blue Lagoon for a tranquil activity where you may let your thoughts drift away and harmonize with the opulent surroundings.

Denmark is the second safest country in the world and Europe, and it is also the birthplace of the concept of utter contentment (Hygge). But this nation is renowned for more than just safety; it has a lot to offer visitors, whether they are traveling alone or with a big group of friends. Some of the attractions are LEGO, the Tivoli Gardens and even enjoying a nice Carlsberg beer. You’ll be departing with tales from one of Europe’s safest nations that someone like Hans Christian Anderson would be proud of.

Books, legends and a pint of Irish Guinness. The time has come to get to know  the Emerald Isle if an Irish tour isn’t the last thing on your mind. The Republic of Ireland is ranked third among the safest European nations by the GPI. It is distinct from Northern Ireland, a constituent of the Kingdom of Great Britain.

This little country takes great pleasure in its lush surroundings, its musical talents and its ability to pour the ideal pint. The nation also offers one of the lowest corporation tax rates in all of Europe. We’ve even highlighted Ireland as a great travel destination for single female travelers because of its comparatively low crime rate and low threat levels. Leave Dublin behind and immerse yourself in the fabled tales of bygone eras in other counties like Cork and Limerick; you never know what you could find. Furthermore, the Irish passport is regarded as one of the strongest five passports globally for its excellent freedom of travel.

Austria, which is renowned for its regal and ancient castles and palaces, comes in second place among the safest nations in Europe. But it’s not only architecture, either. Classical music enthusiasts can honor well-known composers like Mozart and Beethoven by swaying along in Vienna. Should your tour happen to arrive in the winter, you may enter the magical Christmas markets and experience a sensation equivalent to being within a joyous snow globe. Find out more about the best places to travel to in Europe during the winter.

Portugal, which completes the top 5 safest countries in Europe, enjoys cordial relations with its neighbors, a very low crime rate, and its armed forces. The country in southwest Europe has high levels of safety, in part because of the presence of security officials. Portugal is also safe politically, as its connections with other nations are cooperative.

In addition, the nation experiences over 300 days of sunshine on average, so visitors may be lucky to experience pleasant weather while touring. Take a tour of Portugal in the spring or summer and return feeling rejuvenated. Leave Lisbon behind and explore the city before expanding your horizons to include the other towns. Saying “yes” to a vacation in this secure European nation is the only thing left to do.

Slovenia is a country with breathtaking scenery, untamed lakes and elaborate cave networks. Slovenia’s capital, Ljubljana, was voted the Open City of Europe in 2016 because of its completely car-free city center, abundance of open areas and changes to the traffic laws that promote environmental health and sustainability.

But having beautiful scenery by itself doesn’t guarantee a place among the ten safest nations in Europe. Slovenia excels in several areas besides environmental safety. With almost 90% of recorded criminal charges being theft, it ranks high among the countries with the lowest levels of crime in the world. Slovenia deserves a spot on your next trip destination since it has a plethora of medieval castles, lots of recreational opportunities, and the cleanest atmospheres you’ll ever experience.

Switzerland

An excursion to Switzerland is sure to leave you craving more cheese, chocolate, and timepieces. Its long-standing neutrality has played a key role in keeping Switzerland safe, stable, and free of all bloodshed. The Swiss people are an exceptional nation because they have always lived in a tranquil environment free from instability or the threat of conflict. The nation has been able to focus on more vital issues like social welfare and growth because of the prolonged era of peace. Switzerland is now at the top of the Human Development Index.

Were you aware that Switzerland maintains one of the largest rates of gun ownership worldwide? Despite being known for being a major exporter of weapons, it has managed to keep its crime rate extremely low. That’s the extent to which the government’s gun control measures work.

The Czech Republic

Czechia, or The Czech Republic is a well-liked travel destination with a rich cultural heritage and a high level of security within Europe. There is little chance of terrorist threats, communities frequently coexist peacefully and the cost of medical services and other necessities is comparatively lower.

Finland is a deserving destination to be included in the list of the safest European countries. The country is proud to share the statistic that 11 out of 12 misplaced purses are given back to their owners. This country is a delight in every season, home to Lapland, the largest island in the world, and untamed wilderness.

Furthermore, Finland is the second-safest nation according to the Women’s Peace and Security Index, making it a safe sanctuary for lone travelers. Therefore, you can confidently pack your bags and reserve your next trip to this stunning nation if you’re a woman hoping to view the northern lights. If you like to avoid crowds, consider taking a trip in the fall, right before the holiday season.

The Republic of Croatia

Croatia ranks bottom among the ten safest European nations, surrounded by historic walls and terracotta roofs. Even when it came to the safest places to walk at night—which is frequently a top concern for women traveling alone—it came in second. Croatia is a strong candidate for any upcoming European trip plans you may have, given its Mediterranean climate.

Safe Travels!

Now that you are aware of the safest countries in Europe, pack your bags and embrace the peace of mind! Whether you crave the rugged beauty of Iceland or the charming canals of Amsterdam, Europe offers a wealth of safe and unforgettable travel experiences. Remember, this list is a jumping-off point, and further research can help tailor your choice to your specific interests.

While these countries consistently rank highly in safety, it’s important to remember that vigilance is key anywhere you travel. Staying informed about current events, researching specific destinations, and practising common sense will go a long way in ensuring a smooth and secure European adventure. With a little planning and this handy guide, your European adventure is sure to be as safe as it is spectacular.

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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

Stabbing that injured bishop at Sydney church being treated as terrorism

The stabbing of a bishop by a 16-year-old boy during a livestreamed service Monday in Sydney is being treated as an act of terrorism, authorities said.

Police arrested the boy Tuesday after the attack at Christ the Good Shepherd Church. Authorities had said the boy was 15. New South Wales Police Commissioner Karen Webb said the suspect’s comments pointed to a religious motive for the attack.

Bishop Mar Mari Emmanuel was stabbed during a livestreamed sermon, and another priest was injured. Both are expected to survive.

The New South Wales Police Force said earlier in an update on X that it responded to a call from a church in Wakekly, a suburb west of Sydney, at 7:10 p.m. local time (5:39 a.m. ET) Monday, where there were reports that "a number of people were stabbed."

Hundreds of angry people rushed to the scene, and some clashed with riot police, with vehicles damaged. The church and local leaders pleaded for calm.

Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Andrew Holland commended the congregation for subduing the teen before calling police. Asked whether the teen’s fingers had been severed, he said the hand injuries were “severe.”

More than 100 police reinforcements arrived before the teen was taken from the church in the hourslong incident. Several police vehicles were damaged, Holland said.

“A number of houses have been damaged. They’ve broken into a number of houses to gain weapons to throw at the police. They’ve thrown weapons and items at the church itself. There were obviously people who wanted to get access to the young person who caused the injuries to the clergy people,” he said.

Emmanuel and priest Isaac Royel, as well as the teen and at least two police officers, were hospitalized, Holland told journalists.

A video shared widely on social media appears to show a priest being stabbed repeatedly, while delivering a sermon, by a man in a black T-shirt who is then tackled by members of the congregation. The church routinely livestreams its services and events.

Holland commended the congregation for subduing the teen before calling police. When asked if the teen’s fingers had been severed, he said the hand injuries were “severe.”

A subsequent video taken by a churchgoer showed people helping the bishop as he lay on the floor.

Police said the incident took place on Welcome Street, where Christ the Good Shepherd Church, which follows Assyrian Orthodox Christianity, is located. The church advertised an "Assyrian Bible Preaching" event Monday night with Emmanuel .

The church said the bishop and a senior priest were in stable condition at a hospital and asked for people’s prayers. “It is the bishop’s and father’s wishes that you also pray for the perpetrator,” the church said in a statement on social media “We also kindly ask anyone at the church premises to leave in peace.”

The NSW Ambulance service said that it treated a man in his 50s for multiple cuts and that three other people were treated for one or more cuts.

None of the injuries were life-threatening, police said, and the victims were being treated by paramedics. A male was arrested and was “assisting police with inquiries,” the New South Wales police statement noted earlier.

The premier of New South Wales, Chris Minns, described the scenes as “disturbing” on social media and urged the community to remain calm and “stick together.” Religious leaders expressed shock and condolences.

Fairfield Mayor Frank Carbone, leader of the neighboring municipal government, described the bishop as a community leader. “This is a very emotional situation. Obviously the community is very upset,” Carbone told Sky News.

It comes after Saturday's attack at the Westfield Bondi shopping mall in Sydney, which killed six people and injured nine.

Police said earlier Monday that they were examining why the lone assailant in that attack had targeted women while avoiding men, and the killer’s father blamed his son’s frustration at not having a girlfriend.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Bianca Britton is a reporter for NBC News' Social Newsgathering team based in London.

The Associated Press