visit austria summer

The best places to visit in Austria in summer + what to do

August 2, 2022 | Posted in: Austria

After my first trip to the country had been in winter , I was curious to find out what summer in Austria would be like. Most of the people I know associate Austria with winter sports and even though I knew that in summer hiking replaces skiing, I knew little more about what to do in the land of the “Sound of Music” after the snow has melted.

Enter #AustrianTime.

#AustrianTime is a campaign set up by the Austrian tourism board to show people what it's like to have a genuine Austrian time. It takes them beyond the slopes, into taverns serving typical Austrian food , shops selling traditional Austrian wear and cable cars up lush green mountaintops.

I was invited to come along on an Austria road trip to discover what #AustrianTime is all about while getting a taste of no less than five different Austrian regions. Below, I'm sharing the exact route with you that we took. While we did switch hotels in Austria every night and I realize that's not for everyone, I personally loved every moment of it and highly recommend you visit Austria in the summer too.

If you rather travel at a slower pace, you can take this itinerary as a starting point for your own trip. You can expand on it and stay longer in each region, or pick one region first and simply return to Austria until you've visited them all :-)

One last thing: all credit for this road trip route goes to Katrin from the Brussels Austrian tourism board. She literally took us along some of the most beautiful places in Austria. All I needed to do was enjoy the experience so I can now share it with you.

Interested in a specific activity or region? Click the item in the table of contents below. If not, simply follow along from day one until day eight.

An 8-day Austria trip cruising through 5 regions

Visit innsbruck with a guide, taking the nordkettebahn up the nordkette, dinner at adlers, sleep at the nala individuellhotel, hike the nationalpark hohe tauern, have lunch at the matreier tauernhaus, visit the schaukäserei, cooking demonstration, dinner and sleep at hotel outside, hike the alpe-adria-trail, visit heiligenblut's pilgrimage church, dinner at kirchenwirt and sleep at lodge grossglockner, boat trip on the lake, lunch with a view, visit the granatium, dinner and sleep at hotel see-villa, visit schloss grosssölk, lunch at erzherzog johann hütte, hike the mahdfeldalm, dinner and sleep at the kaltenbachalm, sunrise hike the hornfeldspitz, lunch by the lake at the kohlröserhütte, visit a saltmine, dinner and sleep at mondi-holiday seeblickhotel grundlsee, boat trip and hike around toplitzsee and kammersee, visit the biggest ice cave in the world, walk around salzburg, dinner at krimpelstätter, sleep at motel one salzburg-mirabell, visit hohensalzburg fortress, a bike ride, have lunch at the greisslerei – gwandhaus, check out some austrian dress, visit the water games of hellbrunn, catch a flight home, practical information for travel to austria, don't forget travel insurance, day 1: innsbruck, things to do in innsbruck: a walk around town.

I'd never been to Innsbruck before but had frequently been told it's one of the best cities in Austria to visit. Upon my arrival at the Innsbruck train station, I could easily see why that's the case.

Innsbruck lies in a valley encapsulated by mountains. Its center is made up of colorful houses that make you smile each time the sun hits them and on a Sunday the streets are so quiet you feel like you own the city.

That is until you get to Innsbruck Old Town. This is where most of the Innsbruck attractions are and thus it's also where most visitors flock to first. We walked along the Maria-Theresien-Strasse from the Triumpforte or Triumph Arch past the Breakfast Club where I dropped in for a quick lunch while I waited for the others to arrive earlier that day.

From there, we entered the car-free zone which is clearly part of the area where people go shopping in Innsbruck. Yet this pedestrian area around the St. Anna's Column has a more village-like feel to it than a commercial one.

We continued our Innsbruck sightseeing tour and spotted the pink Spitalskirche before entering the Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse. This is the street on which you can find the Stadtturm or City Tower and the Goldenes Dachl , the Golden Roof. Obviously, the Golden Roof comes attached to a house. If you want some additional Innsbruck information, the tourist office is also just around the corner from here.

The Stadtturm is one of the places to visit in Innsbruck as you can climb the tower to get a view of Old Town Innsbruck from above. Unfortunately, we didn't have time for that so I put it on my list of things to do for when I visit Innsbruck again.

As I mentioned before, Innsbruck is quite unique among the Austrian cities as it's totally surrounded by mountains. So what do you think we did after our walk around the town? We went up a mountain, of course!

If you'd like to visit Innsbruck with a guide, like we did, this group tour comes highly recommended. Alternatively, you can also book a private guide .  

This Innsbruck cable car actually has a few different stops. Visitors can choose to go partly up the mountain or all the way to the top, which lies at 2300 meters. As the best views are from the top, we did the latter.

This was the first of many times during our Austria tour that I had to face my fear of heights. I'm not a fan of cable cars and even though this was a big and sturdy one, I still felt uneasy and was happy when we got out.

Walking out of the Nordkette cable car station, I was immediately reminded of why I continue my fight with vertigo. Just look at this view:

There was even some snow left from the past winter.

Quick fun fact: there are places in Austria where you can ski all-year-long, like on the Hintertux Glacier and in most ski resorts, like in Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis , the winter season doesn't end until late April or early May.

As the Innsbruck Bergbahn really takes you to do the top, you get a 360° view when you walk “around the edges”. On one side, you get a total view on Innsbruck, including the airport and the Europabrücke or Europe Bridge, a famous bungee jumping spot.

Before heading back into town again, we made a quick stop partly down the Innsbruck mountain. At 2000 meters, you still get great views here (and snow in June!) and we also managed to spot the swirling tracks that mountain bikers left behind right below us. When you have the time, go for some typical Tyrolean cuisine at the Seegrube restaurant, located right by the cable car station.

Practical information The Nordkettebahnen take you up to the top of the Nordkette in just 20 minutes from the Hungerburg Funicular station. This station lies just a short walk from Innsbruck Old Town and was designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid . There are three stops: one at the Alpine Zoo, one at the Seegrube restaurant and one at the top.

Ticket prices vary depending on between which stations you travel, where you get out, whether it's winter, summer or a Friday evening and whether you qualify for a discount or not. The price of a round trip for an adult can go up to €33. It's pretty pricey, but worth it in my opinion. You can book a round trip here .

To cut down on the cost, you could also take the cable car up and hike back down or, if you plan on doing more around Innsbruck, you can get an Innsbruck Card which gives you discounts on different attractions around the city as well as on cable cars, lifts, and public transportation.

And if my photos haven't convinced you yet, maybe this Nordkette webcam will.  

As the sun set and we looked back on our day, I enjoyed a ginormous salad, the catch of the day and a sweet chocolate dessert. I haven't tried any other restaurants in Innsbruck yet, but I'd say this one is a must!

aDLERS Bruneckerstrasse 1 Innsbruck  

After a day of exploring, I quickly fell asleep the NALA Individuellhotel, a boutique hotel that serves a lovely breakfast buffet in the morning. As my time in Innsbruck came to an end, I knew I'd be back. An afternoon simply wasn't enough to see all this city has to offer.

Also want to stay at the NALA hotel? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.  

Day 2: Matrei in Osttirol

The second day of our Austria travel itinerary was dedicated to nature. We left the city and drove straight to the Hohe Tauern National Park in Osttirol for a quick hike.  

This short hike would result to be a little warm-up for the coming days and the start of many many summer hikes in Austria for me, but at the time, we remained fully in the moment. It had been a while since I'd been so immersed in nature and I enjoyed the fresh air while admiring the mountains towering above me.

Emmanuel kept looking up in search of birds of prey and we managed to spot some vultures through his binoculars. The cows were easier to spot, lazing in the fields along the road that leads up to the actual entrance of the park.

Where there are cows, there are (usually) people and yet I was surprised when we came across a small stone church. There's a funny story behind this chapel, which Eva from the Osttirol tourism board explains best:

The sacred building in Gschlößtal dates back to a chapel built in 1688 by the farmers of the valley. Since the Archbishopric of Salzburg, however, had doubts about the meaning of a chapel in this area, the Archpriest of Gmünd in Carinthia was asked for an opinion. The Archpriest, who was responsible for the supervision of the parishes in the part of Osttirol, which was part of Salzburg, was skeptical about the church building and denounced the “boyish” life of the farmers. Above all, the illegitimate pregnancies were criticized by him. The Salzburg church authorities forbade the construction of the chapel. This, however, had already been almost completed by the farmers from their own resources, because the letters took to long on their way. This, and the high popularity the chapel found, ultimately led the church authorities to give their consent to the chapel. The original chapel was located in an avalanche area and was destroyed twice by an avalanche. The chapel was then moved to a mighty rock block in 1870, whose natural cave was extended to a natural stone vault. The license was issued in 1880. Between 1969 and 1970, the chapel was renovated and re-ordinated on 6. Sept. 1970

After what had been a couple of hours but seemed like a mere 30 minutes, we reached a tavern. Waiting for our ride back to the Matreier Tauernhaus, we decided to have a pre-lunch snack and so we ordered an assortment of cakes to try along with a few refreshing drinks.  

Wait, what?

Yup, we were going to visit a newly-opened cheese-making “factory” and buy our cheese for dinner there.

The Schaukäserei was a cheese factory in the past, but it closed as such in 1937. When it did, the owner gave the factory to a bank under the condition that if the region ever needed a cheese factory again, the building would get its old function back. And that's exactly what happened after a local association decided to found a new cheese factory back in 2014.

The Schaukäserei plans to process around 300,000 liters of milk between May and September, turning it into different kinds of cheeses (mmm, cheeeeese…). They sell directly to visitors of the park, but also through a local market hall and to restaurants.

Cheesemaker Mathias Wibmer focuses on creating high-quality cheeses and proudly carries the title of Molkereimeister . It's the highest possible title for a cheese maker and only as recent as 2013 did it become possible again to obtain it by following the specific training.

All the milk he uses comes directly from local farmers, who are paid a fixed milk price that's higher than what the competition pays. What's interesting is that both the Schaukäserei and the local farmers are part of the association I mentioned earlier and so both have a say in how the business is being run and enjoy the profits.

The local aspect doesn't only come forth in the product on sale. It's an essential part of the Schaukäserei's identity. The pictures on the factory's website were taken by an Eastern Tyrolean photographer and the logo was designed by a local artist.

Another place that's all about local products, crafts, and ecology, is the hotel where we'd have the best meal of our trip as well as spend the night. More on that below.  

The Matreier Tauernhaus can be found at Tauer 22, Matrei in Osttirol. Aside from offering lunch, it's also a hotel. You can check prices here . There are also alpine huts throughout the park where you can stay from mid-June until September.

The Schaukäserei is located around the corner from the Matreier Tauernhaus.  

We spent the evening of our second day at Hotel Outside in Matrei in Osttirol, where we got a quick lesson in making ravioli from the chef who'd later prepare us a multi-course dinner that I won't easily forget. To read more about those experiences, as well as what the hotel has to offer and how well the cook can sing (really!), check out my post about the places we stayed at during this trip .

Also want to get spoiled at Hotel Outside? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.  

Day 3: Heiligenblut

For someone with a fear of heights (me!), the start of the trail is the hardest. It goes down a narrow staircase that's built into the side of the mountain. Softening the terror is the impressive view of the Grossglockner, the highest mountain in Austria with a height of 3798 meters, and the Pasterzengletscher , the largest glacier in the eastern Alps.

Leaving an empty pathway between the mountains, the Pasterze silently shows the effects of climate change as it currently decreases about 10 meters every year. Now measuring around 8.4 kilometers in length, its volume has already halved since it was first measured in 1851.

However confronting and saddening that fact, we couldn't help but let the beauty of this place overpower us. Standing at the bottom of the staircase, my knees still wobbling from tensing up out of fear, I felt grateful for how small this place made me feel. The Grossglockner Pasterze and its surroundings were a true reminder of how big the world is and of how many wonderful parts of it I still need to discover.

But first, my short human legs needed to carry me further along the trail and so they did.

Leaving the glacier behind us, we walked to the Sandersee where we stopped for a quick snack while a group of school kids played in the turquoise-colored water of the lake. They were the only other people we'd see on our hike. We did also spot a few marmots, cows, and even a few ibexes from afar. Oh, and let's not forget that bright white bull which we wisely decided to walk around as it blocked our path.

Here's another fun fact: at the start of summer, farmers take their cows up into the mountains where they stay until the end of September. Then, they're taken down to the valleys where they spend winter. This descent back into the valleys is called the Almabtrieb and is a full-day event, with the cows parading down wearing beautiful decorations and festivities and the farm upon their arrival.

We climbed a hill and descended again, only to have our breath taken away by the Margeritzensee as we'd just regained it. Passing through a more forest-like bit we reached a summer house from where the rest of our walk went downhill, past the Leiterfalls waterfall into the Möll Valley.

There we took a short break at the Briccius Chapel where the thick walls allowed us to cool down before heading out again and walking the few last meters to the Briccius Sennerei Sattelalm where we'd have lunch.

After that, a mere 30-minute walk (we were used to more by now!) took us to the meeting point where a shuttle picked us up to take us back into Heiligenblut.

Practical info The starting point of the Alpe-Adria-Trail, the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, can be found at the Grossglockner Hochalpenstrasse 1210 in Heiligenblut.

Make sure to wear appropriate hiking gear .  

But back to the church. The St. Vincent Church is one of Austria's most famous churches. It's named after patron saint Vincent of Saragossa and contains the remains of the Holy Briccius, who's chapel we'd seen earlier that day. What the church is most famous for, though, is the few drops of Christ's blood it supposedly holds.

The legend goes that the Danish prince Briccius was killed by an avalanche in the Möll Valley where his chapel now stands. He supposedly carried with him a small bottle which contained a few drops of Christ's blood. The bottle with the blood was stored in the local church and gave Heiligenblut – “Holy Blood” – its name.

Also noteworthy is the book of steel that holds the names of all the people that died in the surrounding mountains.  

Want to stay in the center of Heiligenblut, like we did? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability for Lodge Grossglockner  

Day 4: Millstätter See

Our next stop was Millstätter See, a lake in Carinthia surrounded by forest and stately houses. There we met up with Michaela from the local tourism board for a boat ride.  

The tourism board offers special packages that include a picnic for two and a boat ride, or you can just rent a boat yourself.  

Don't just stick to the platform though, as I loved the view from the terrace of the little taverna few meters from it as well. We had a lunch there, which consisted of a wooden plank covered with meats and cheeses – a dish we had on several occasions during our trip and is typical as it is simple and tasty. Lunch was topped off with Kaiserschmarrn, a typical Austrian dessert. Yum!

Granatium Klammweg 10 Radenthein  

After a refreshing shower, we enjoyed a three-course meal on the terrace of Hotel See-Villa before also spending the night there.

Want to spend a night or two at Hotel See-Villa as well? Check here fore more reviews, prices, and availability.  

Day 5: Naturpark Sölktäler

Our first stop was at Schloss Grosssölk, a 14th-century castle now housing a permanent historical exhibition on life in the region 200 years ago. We also got to see a temporary exhibition around wolves and had a snack in the Sölker Jesuits Garden, which showcases all kinds of herbs, vegetables, and flowers.

Schloss Großsölk Großsölk 55 Großsölk  

For lunch, we took a seat at the terrace of the Erzherzog Johan Hütte. It was the perfect spot. Food was served at large picnic tables right at the foot of the Sölkpass.

Erzhertog Johann Hütte Kals am Großglockner  

We were quickly re-energized, though. If it's one thing the Austrian mountains can do, it's that they motivate you to explore further. After a steep walk up, we reached the highest point of our walk: a farmer's cabin.

The cool thing about farmer mountain cabins in Austria is that they'll often have this hollow tree trunk with cold mountain water running through it in which they place drinks. Yup, drinks! When the farmer's home, you simply pay him for your refreshment and when he's not, you put the change in a box by the door. It's an honor system and in the small towns in Austria, it seems to work. I think it's a great system for when you go hiking in summer as you'll get to quench your thirst without having to carry a lot of bottles with you.

On our way down from the farmer's cabin we came across the owner of the hut we'd previously had coffee at. We found out the hut owner was actually the son of the farmer and he stopped to have a little chat. He'd better not, though, because when he hit the gas again, his who-knows-how-old car wouldn't start anymore.

Volkhard, one of the people from the local tourism board who was guiding us, stayed behind to help him out and luckily he rejoined us after a few minutes, telling us the car was working again.

On our way back I couldn't believe the road that car had followed to get up there. We literally had to climb over pointy rocks at some points. It wasn't that hard for us, but for a car? That guy had some driving skills!  

After our walk, it was time to head to our resting place for the night, the Kaltenbachalm. The Kaltenbachalm is a typical Austrian hut where farmers live in summer and visitors can stay when they go Austrian hut-to-hut hiking or want to explore the area.

But now it's time for the most challenging part of our trip.  

Day 6: sunrise hike and Altausseer See

After only three hours of sleep (and none for me as I couldn't catch it – sleep, that is) in the room above the cow stable, Volkhard's alarm went off telling us it was time to get up again. Only taking what was needed, we got into the car while it was still pitch black to drive the two minutes up to the start of the trail.

Our goal? Watching the sunrise from the top of the Hornfeldspitz at 2277 meters. It would be a little less than a two-hour climb up along a narrow, rocky path running along the spine of the mountain.

I managed pretty well until, about halfway up, the wind got increasingly stronger and I started to get afraid to lose my balance. I didn't stop to look around me, I didn't take any photos, I just pushed on. With the top in sight, I squatted down for the briefest second. I was terrified. Volkhard, who was leading us and who walked in front of me, grabbed my hand and changed gears, racing us both to the top.

I'd made it.

The wind was strong, the land at the top steep. I sat down and it was as if my body blocked. Drenched in sweat – more from fear than from being warm – I managed to change shirts before I curled up under the windproof blanket Volkhard gave me. The sun was about to rise in a few minutes but all I could think about was that we'd have to get back down again as well.

I sipped from the warm tea we brought up with us and ate a cookie (Hey, I was still me). Letting it all sink in, my breathing slowed down and I dropped a tear or two. Stress release in the form of salty water.

Watching a sunrise from an iconic place had been on my bucket list and I was glad I climbed up there. I was glad that I didn't give in and reached the top. But you know what? I also have to admit I wasn't that sorry when clouds formed in the sky and hid the actual sunrise from us. It meant that I didn't have to go stand all the way at the top and look around me. It meant that I could stay put, shivering from being cold as all the adrenaline left my body.

When the others started to gather their things, I realized the moment had come. We'd go down again. Volkhard grabbed my hand – I'm forever grateful for this man's help – and guided me along the first and for me worst part down. When I felt more at ease, I let go and felt a sudden feeling of victory roll into me as I breathed in the morning air.

I'd actually hiked up a darn high mountain.

A weight fell off my shoulders and I finally dared to stop and take some photos. I know I could've gotten some amazing shots up there if I hadn't been scared, but what I gained that day is so much more precious than a digital memory.

As I write this, my eyes well up with tears again. It just shows how much of an impact that hike has made on me. And while I already mentioned Volkhard, I also have to thank my fellow travelers for supporting me through this and the many other times I needed to tackle heights on this trip. It's something I'll never forget and I know these challenges have made me stronger.

All of that personal stuff aside, the hike wasn't that hard physically. If you're in somewhat of a decent shape, you'll be fine getting up and back down again.  

We talked over lunch at the Kohlröserhütte, a grand new restaurant right by the Ödensee with a splendid view of the lake. We all chose fish and enjoyed our meal, which we no doubt unsuccessfully tried to work away with a walk around the lake afterward.

Even though the sky was grey, we were all fascinated by the reflections cast by the surroundings on the lake and the natural beauty of this place. We spent at least the same amount of time taking photos as we did going around.

Kohlröserlhütte Ödensee 144, Bad Aussee

We'd planned a walk around the Altausseer See as well, but the dripping skies changed our plans and made us head underground. We visited Faszination Salzwelten, a former salt mine through which you can take a guided tour. While salt mining used to be a big industry in the region, this mine is mostly known because of the artwork the Nazis hid there during the Second World War and its feature in the Hollywood movie “The Monuments Men”.

Altaussee Salzwelten Lichtersberg  

Our resting place for the night was the Mondi-Holiday Seeblickhotel in Grundlsee, where we also had dinner.

Want to stay at the Mondi Seeblickhotel too? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability.  

Day 7: from Ausseerland to Salzburg

The next day, we went for a short boat trip before heading to Salzburgerland.  

What a scenery yet again.

The Kammersee can only be reached if you first do the boat crossing over the Toplitzsee, or after a multi-day hike which involves climbing down some dangerous-looking mountains as well. I'm glad we took the boat.

If the weather's a bit off like it was when we were there, you can grab a coffee at the small café by the boat's departure point at the Toplitzsee.  

First, we needed to lunch, though. We parked a short walk from the visitor center at 1000 m, walked uphill for about 20 minutes until we reached the cable car station and then took the cable car up to 1575. There, the terrace of the Dr.Friedrich-Oedl-Haus tavern invited us to take a seat. After a hearty lunch, we walked another 20 minutes uphill to the entrance of the cave, admiring the views along the way.

By the way, if you love a good walk uphil, it's also possible to skip the cable car and hike your way up. This will take you about one-and-a-half hours according to the brochure. We took the easy route :D

It's not allowed to take photos inside the ice cave, so I've got a few press photos to give you an idea of what to expect.

© Eisriesenwelt GmbH

Temperatures inside the cave are around 0°C and the route along the different chambers is actually a route that goes 700 steps up and then 700 steps down again. Yup, more climbing!

After my sunrise hike, I was up for the challenge, but I do think this is important to know this before you go. I hadn't expected such a climb inside a cave at all. Now, you won't be taking all 700 steps at once as the guide (there's a tour every 30 minutes) stops frequently to give some information.

Honestly, I think the Eisriesenwelt is one of the things to see in Austria. I have to admit I had pretty low expectations for it, but it was amazing. It's not just some ice in a cave, it's huge amounts of smooth, think, milky ice rolling down. It's impressive.

Eisriesenwelt Eishohlenstrasse 30, Werfen  

You know how it goes. Sometimes you just arrive in a place and know you'll like it. It was like that for me with Salzburg and I think a lot of it had to do with the amazing views we got walking alongside the river Salzach and from atop the Mönchsberg.

There are different pathways that run up to the Mönchsberg, but you can also take the Mönchsberg Lift which goes up by the Museum der Moderne and Restaurant M32. It takes you 60 meters higher in 30 seconds and is open all-year-round, 7 days a week.

Ticket prices range from €2.3 for a single ride for an adult to €9.7 for an adult return ticket which includes entrance to the museum. However, if you have a Salzburg Card , both the lift and the museum are free.

If you check a map of Salzburg, you'll see that there's another hill right across the river from the Mönchsberg. It's the Kapuzinerberg, another great place to go for a walk with a view of the city and also home to a church, an abbey, and some local wildlife. We didn't have time to go up this mountain, so this is one of the places to visit in Salzburg for me when I go back.

What we did do, was visit the Augustiner Braustubl. It claims to be Austria's biggest beer tavern and has its own indoor market hall where you can buy some hearty food from one of the stands to go with your drink. Or you can also just bring your own food as long as you have a drink. How cool is that?

There are two large “drinking halls” at the Braustubl with a combined seating area of 5000 m². One is dark, filled with heavy wooden furniture and a lively ambiance. The other is light and frequented by families on a Sunday who come to have a picnic here. That second hall is special because it's actually the old… train station hall. Really! They've rebuilt it there when the old station was broken down to make way for a new one.

Aside from the halls, there's also a large outdoor terrace with seats for no less than 1,400 people under lines of trees that protect both from the sun and light rain. The Braustuble is open all-year-long, every afternoon and evening, except on Christmas and New Year's Day.  

Practical information We got a short custom Salzburg walking tour because our time was limited that evening, but you can easily book your own guide or join a group tour of the city when you're there. This city tour including a visit to Mozart's House comes recommended.  

Krimpelstätter Müllner Hauptstraße 31, Salzburg  

I can highly recommend the Motel One Salzburg-Mirabell when you're visiting Salzburg. It's located by the river in a quiet area, walking distance from the Old Town and reasonably priced.

Want to stay at a central but quiet location in Salzburg as well? Check here for more reviews, prices, and availability for the Motel One Salzburg-Mirabell.  

Day 8: explore Salzburg by foot and bike

It was the final day of our Austrian road trip and I think we were all determined to absorb as much of the country while we still could. We started with a quick tour of the Old Town as we made our way to one of Salzburg's main attractions: Hohensalzburg Castle.  

The other rooms are quite cool too, sometimes majestically decorated and other times reminding you how hard life must have been “back in the day”, even for the nobility who got to live in a castle.

The Schloss Hohensalzburg is well-maintained and its room now serves as a museum that showcases how people used to live there, but also tell the story of Salzburg history. Yet no matter how fun it was to roam the halls, my favorite part of our visit was walking along the castle walls and admiring the view of the surroundings.

Practical information To get to the Schloss, you can to take the funicular at the FestungsBahn Bergstation or walk up and then take the funicular back down again. If you take it up, takes you straight onto the castle walls. There's an information point, a restaurant and a tavern. There are also toilets inside the castle and those who want to can visit the ever-present souvenir shop.

The Schloss is open all-year-round though Salszburg Castle opening hours vary depending on the time of the year. The same goes for the funicular. Get current information here.

There are different ticket prices depending on what you want access to at the castle, ranging between €9.20 and €15.20 for adults at the time of writing. However, this is also one of the attractions in Salzburg you can visit for free if you have a Salzburg Card .  

After our visit of the Fortress Hohensalzburg, it was time to pick up our rental bikes and leave the Old Town behind us. We'd cycle to Schloss Hellbrunn, famous for its water games, but not before making a few stops first.

Our first stop was one that's included in just about any “Sound of Music” tour: Schloss Leopoldskron. Now a hotel that can only be accessed by guests, the Schloss was used as an outdoor location for the movie, “playing” the part of the exterior of the home of the Von Trapp family. For fans of the movie, this probably makes it the most important castle in Salzburg and one of the best-known castles in Austria.

Did you know, by the way, that the actual story of the Von Trapp family is not quite like the movie? There's a book about it.

We paused at the other side of the Leopoldskron Weiher, the lake that's part of the castle grounds. From there we could spot the Schloss with the Festung Hohensalzburg in the background. Double whammy.

Want to go on the renowned Sound of Music tour? You can book it here .  

We had meats, cheese, chutney, bread and more goodness on the spacious terrace while other people were enjoying a grass of wine in the garden. I strongly started to wonder while Austria is so famous for it's winter sports as the best time to visit Austria is clearly summer. Sunshine, good food, bike rides. Bliss.

Unfortunately, I've been told that the Greisslerei left the Gwandhaus and will soon open at a location in the city center. Luckily, a new restaurant will be opening at the Gwandhaus soon so you'll also be able to enjoy some deliciousness at the large terrace there.

Gwandhaus Morzger Str. 31, Salzburg  

Sandor told me that most men only buy one lederhosen to last them a lifetime. And then try not to gain or lose too much weight.

If you're only buying something once, you want it to last and to be decent. That explains the success and prices of Gössl. When you visit the store – which, by the way, also has a tiny museum – you can actually peak into the workshop where all of the clothes are handmade and customized to match the buyer's preferences.

And these aren't clothes that are only worn on special occasions. During out eight days in Austria, we saw plenty of people in their traditional Austrian wear going about their day-to-day business. It wasn't just the mayor in Ausseerland who welcomed us in his lederhosen outfit, no, we saw traditional clothing everywhere.

Well, okay, maybe not in the big cities. But in the small villages? Everywhere.

I'm very much looking forward to when I'll get to wear a dirndl on my trip to Zillertal in September. For now, I had to content myself with playing the game of trying to decide which dress in the store I liked best.  

A part of the garden consists out of a route along the water games. Basically, they're games or moving displays that will spray you wet when you least expect it. They're quite amazing as they were invented and built in the 17th century and they still work exactly as they used to, using only water force and no electricity to keep the fountains working, activate sprayers and make puppets move around a stage.

The Schloss itself can be visited itself and gives you an impression of what things would have been like a few centuries ago.

Practical information Schloss Hellbrunn is open daily from April until October with opening times depending on the time of the year. An entrance ticket for an adult costs €12.5 at the time of writing and includes a guided tour of the water games. These can, by the way, only be visited with a guided tour as someone of the castle's staff needs to turn the games on.

You can find updated opening times and ticket prices here .

We cycled to Schloss Hellbrunn with bikes we rented in Salzburg's city center. You can also drive there should you be road tripping or take a boat from the Old Town. This boat ride comes recommended.  

And that was it. We drove back to hand in our bikes and pick up our luggage from the hotel. Our #AustrianTime trip had come to an end. I know I'll visit Salzburg again and even after this short stay, I feel confident to recommend it as one of the cities to visit in Austria.

It was one hell of a trip and I hope our itinerary will help you decide where to go in Austria and plan your own road trip to Austria in summer, as it's the perfect season to visit the country. You'll have a great time. Promise :-)  

As I spent two days in Vienna before joining the others in Innsbruck, I flew from Brussels to Vienna and then I took the train from Vienna to Innsbruck. To go home, we flew from Salzburg directly to Brussels. It's possible to book flights to Innsbruck as well but there are no direct connections from Brussels. You'll have to change plans somewhere.

Before booking, it's best to compare flight prices across different airlines and see which price/time/connection combination works best for you depending on where you're coming from. Skyscanner gives a good overview of all your options.

For train timetables and prices within Europe, look here .

The car we drove around in was a rental from Sixt, a company I've rented from in the past as well. You can compare rental car prices for a ton of companies on Rentalcars.com . This site always gives you the best deal.  

Plan for the best, prepare for the worst. Travel insurance has you covered in case (part of) your trip gets canceled, you get sick or hurt abroad, and sometimes even when your electronics break or get stolen. I always make sure I'm covered every trip I go on.

Don't have travel insurance yet? Check out SafetyWing. They offer super flexible plans that you can even sign up for while you're already on your trip. On top of that, they were the first travel insurance to cover COVID, and when I got COVID, they reimbursed all of my expenses without making a fuss. Their customer support team is great and I can personally recommend them.  

I went on this trip to Austria as a guest of the Visit Austria tourism board . As always when I enter in collaborations like this one, I was free to write whatever I wanted and all opinions here are my own.

The editorial team at Wonderful Wanderings brings together travel experts with backgrounds in travel writing, web development and digital marketing. The team, through their collaborative effort, provides readers with relevant travel experiences and up-to-date digital content. The vast expertise within the team ensures an informative blend of travel stories and useful online travel guides and trip experiences, built on a foundation of both industry recognition and hands-on global adventures. Learn more about Wonderful Wanderings

Hi your post is terrific. I will be studying it to learn how to inprove mine. I have been trying to create shorter posts so I could take one like yours and make 9 or 10 posts out of it. Blog on!

WOW. Read this from start to finish, and it was the best decision I made all afternoon. Can’t say traveling to Austria (or anywhere in Europe) ever crossed my mind, but after this blog, I’m inspired. My favorite parts of your trip were your lunches/dinners with a view! I already felt major envy at your dinner at aDLERS and the lovely view of the city – yet that pales in comparison with everything that follows. And wow, dumplings in Austria!

I was also particularly charmed by the view from inside Eisriesenwelt. Austria seems like a lovely country to get lost in!

That’s the best compliment you can give me, Dani, that my post makes you want to travel to Austria :-)

This country really has one breathtaking view after the other. It’s crazy!

Hi Came across this page just now and read it thro My family of 3 will be holidaying in Austria this coming summer and your blog certainly has given me a lot of ideas about travelling in Austria My husband suffers from severe vertigo and can’t take small cable cars as well as walk up steep areas Your mention about this makes me ask you this question How do you handle it (vertigo) and any solutions that could help ? My husband is 61 and experienced fear when we took a small cable car to Kleine Scheidegg in the Swiss Alps when we visited there We returned back from the first cable station to base then Will check your blog for other places you’ve been to. Vidya

I’m sorry to read your husband also suffers from vertigo. I used to have it very badly but the more I spent time in the mountains, the better it got. I still have vertigo now but I do already dare to take cable cars up. I just need to make sure I sit facing up the mountain and need to focus on my breathing to remain calm. It also helps when I’m with people I feel comfortable with and I try to avoid situations where I’m somewhere high with people who act a bit “wild”.

It’s perfectly possible to enjoy Austria without taking cable cars and walking along steep cliffs. Most of the regions have all available walking routes on their websites and usually, there are indications of steepness but not really of whether the routes go along cliff edges or not so it would be best to ask about that at your hotel or at the local tourist office when you are there.

A lot of hikes start down below in the valleys as well so you wouldn’t need to take a cable car if you’re willing to hike up and then down again. Sometimes there are also hikes of which the start and end points are connected by bus and you can go back that way.

I don’t know how bad your husband’s vertigo is but if his fear is manageable, I would try to take a bigger cable car up maybe once or twice. He’ll be scared – I always am too – but he’ll also be super proud of himself when he’s done it and it does open up more opportunities for exploring.

I’m still scared whenever I need to take a cable car but doing it multiple times a year has helped me deal with it and it’s better now than it was a few years ago. I hope it can get better for your husband too.

Have a wonderful trip to Austria!

Satya Patro says

Very beautifully written article on Austria. I am planning to visit Austria in July of this year. I will be going with my wife and two small kids (2 and 7 years old). I don’t think it will be possible to hike and walk a lot with small kids. I would really appreciate if you can suggest me places to visit in Austria where I can take my family with small kids.

Thank you! I’m afraid I don’t have specific advice on traveling with kids as I don’t have any kids myself and never travel with them. I have seen people go hiking with small kids though. The smallest, they carry in a special carrying backpack and most if not all places in Austria have family-friendly trails which are super easy, short, and have things to do for kids along the way.

I’d also have a look at the Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis region as it’s very kid-friendly.

All the best!

theresa agbo says

Such a helpful post. Thank you so much!

Glad you liked it!

hi, how much cost it all for this trip for one person? Thanks

Hey Mil, I don’t know by heart, but you can find the prices for everything we did and all the places we stayed at online. You can also always make things more budget-friendly by renting a smaller all, staying at cheaper placer or at apartments, cooking your own meals etc :)

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Why Visit Austria in Summer? Holiday Ideas From the Alps to Unesco Old Towns

Home » Destinations » Europe » Austria » Why Visit Austria in Summer? Holiday Ideas From the Alps to Unesco Old Towns

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Updated: 15th July 2023

For many people, the hottest months mean escaping to the beach, which can leave landlocked countries such as Austria a less obvious summer holiday choice. But perhaps that’s exactly what makes it so appealing to fellow summer in Austria stans like myself. Don’t get me wrong, I adore the coast – I mean, I live in the Algarve – but I usually prefer my sandy escape in the shoulder season when the mid-day heat is less intense and crowds far fewer.

That’s why I’ve been gleefully spending some of my summer holidays in Austria over the last few years. For a long time, I’d only visited in winter, charmed by the snowscapes, ice caves, and festive markets. But now, my seasonal loyalties have shifted. From the start of summer solstice celebrations to the creeping in of the wine harvests in autumn, these blissful and bright months are awash with unforgettable outdoor moments.

I love how, as the sun climbs higher, the energy in the cities rises too. How the mountains seemingly stand taller once they have shaken off their winter snow coat. And, with ice a distant memory, the sparkling lakes lure you in once more. Sure, skiing is almost a winter religion for those passionate about pistes, and those freshly dusted peaks add extra enchantment to the Christmas markets. But if you ask me, Austria’s magic is in these milder, warmer days, when you can put two feet forward, dive into a dazzling lake, or simply enjoy a stein of beer on a sun-bathed terrace.

There are numerous reasons to visit Austria in summer, plenty of incredible ideas of what to do when the sun is radiating and an abundance of different itineraries you can follow – whether on foot, bike, train or car – without skiing being the snowy staple. Here, I’ve tried to share my picks of the best for your Austrian summer holiday, just in case you’re still on the fence about when is truly the best time to visit Austria.

In this article...

Reasons to visit Austria in summer

If you’re weighing up the reasons to holiday in Austria this summer or still deciding if it’s better to wait until the winter snow turns the country into a powdery-white wonderland, let me tell you why I love Austria in summer.

Cities are still special sans skiing and snow

If there is one thing that Austria does really well, it’s the country’s Christmas Markets – the kind that completely transforms an already snow-coated city into something even more enchanting. Salzburg was even the birthplace of (probably) the first Christmas carol, Silent Night. But that doesn’t mean they are one-season wonders, and summer in Austria is just as memorable.

In Salzburg, a year-round festival and concert programme makes it magical in the summer when performances move outside to the likes of the Mirabell Palace’s garden. Vienna’s coffee culture and classical architecture give way to overflowing terraces and picnics in the Stadtpark. And in sustainable Graz , with the heavy-student population off for the summer holidays, the UNESCO-listed Old Town feels slightly calmer.

Perhaps the most notable urban difference can be found in Innsbruck. Wedged in a valley between mountain ranges that you feel can be touched from the Old Town, the city is an absolute haven for winter sports lovers. Cable cars run right from the city up to the peaks and pistes, and seeing people carrying skis on the high street isn’t even an oddity. Fast forward to the end of spring, and you’ve got a completely different picture: the Old Town’s famous gold roof shines without a snow topper, terraces overflow, and those cable cars keep running but now to epic hiking trails through Tyrol’s famous mountains. Innsbruck in summer is something special, but that’s also true of Austria in summer as a whole.

Outside living equals summer holidays in Austria

Austria’s cities are captivating year-round, but perhaps, like me, you’d rather spend your summer holiday in Austria outside? No problem! This Alpine escape is an absolute al fresco marvel in the warmer months, and you don’t even have to strap on your hiking boots to enjoy it!

Summer in Austria comes in plenty of different forms. Want to sit back, relax, and soak in the sun and scenery? Take a Danube river cruise and witness the Wachau wine region slip by from the outside deck, or head to Styria’s open-air museum to dive into the nation’s history. You can even do nothing atop the Alps, whether it’s taking the city-centre cable cars in Innsbruck or riding the gondola to a ‘Cinema of Nature’ atop The Asitz Mountain .

Then, of course, you’ve got all those tempting cafe terraces in Vienna, lazy strolls along the shores of Lake Hallstatt before staring in awe at perhaps the country’s most famous village and heaps of fantastic cycling trails which connect medieval castles, traditional taverns and remote settlements. Spending summer in Austria means spending summer outside, and that is by far one of the country’s biggest warm month appeals.

Losing the crowds is easy 

One of my favourite things about Austria is how easy it is to find your own remote slice of serenity, and a summer holiday in Austria will gift you plenty of peaceful moments if you pick your destination wisely.

For sure, some of the most famous places to visit in the country, such as Hallstatt or Salzburg’s many attractions , will always be popular, but enjoy an Austrian city break in less famous Linz, or a mountain escape to Saaflden Leogang , and you won’t find it hard to get away from the crowds. Even when you board a busy cable car in Innsbruck up the Patscherkofel, you won’t have to walk too far to find the simple joys of Austria’s summer silence.

The same can apply to some of the country’s best cultural attractions, even if you’ll never get Vienna’s Imperial Palaces to yourself. Still, on a summer day, many people will be more inclined to be outside than walking around the Rein Abbey near Graz or Innsbruck’s Ambros Palace.

Lake swims over sun, sea and sand 

Perhaps the biggest hurdle for many people to overcome when planning their summer holiday is the fact that Austria is landlocked. But no matter whether you love the beach or have zero interest in tanning, this mountainous nation more than comes through with an excellent alternative: outstanding, crystal-clear, and tempting lakes.

After an afternoon of kayaking or lounging around Lake Wolfgangsee in Salzburgerland , you’ll quickly see that spending summer in Austria can be as equally about the water as heading to the coast.

Kitesurf at Lake Neusiedl, marvel at the turquoise fringes of Lake Achen in Tyrol, or head to Lake Constance , where you can hop on a boat after bathing to visit two other countries – Germany and Switzerland – all on the same day. Austria’s lakes are a true summer oasis, and the lack of a coastline shouldn’t be a reason to skip Austria in summer.

Harvest and produce, especially on summer’s fringes

When it comes to food, I think it’s fair to say that Austria’s traditional heaty mountain staples aren’t exactly what you want to eat on a hot summer’s day. Still, there is far more on the menu than that.

One of the best summer destinations for fresh food, farmers’ markets, and even start-of-season wines is the fertile region of Styria. Here, you can spend some days enjoying the best things to do in Graz : sightseeing and eating sustainable global cuisine before venturing out to the nearby vineyards and farms. Orchards, vineyards, and farmland coat the countryside just beyond the city’s limits, and you’ll be showered with scrumptious dishes, whether they are cold cuts at a typical Buschenschank or mouthwatering plates at award-winning restaurants.

The mountain trails come calling during Austria’s summer

The lofty peaks of Austria’s Alps might be most celebrated in winter , thanks to the piled-high snow, glaciers, and skiing opportunities. Once that all melts, however, you’re left with soaring slate peaks, exquisite Alpine forests, and no longer frozen lakes – all of which means one thing: hiking.

Yes, Austria in summer is a true hikers eden, with long-distance or day trails for all abilities. In Innsbruck, I was amazed at how accessible the mountains were with adapted step-free platforms to the cable cars, making it ideal for both a family holiday and more experienced hikers. In Leogang, I fell in love with the trails to a still lived-in Hermitage and those that were lined with artwork, while in Wachau, the low-slung hills and flat river-side trails offer an even more low-impact option.

Still, it’s those grand, lofty and epic trails that get the most attention, and if you love adrenaline and adventure, you’re in for a treat. The Stubai Glacier is still an incredible sight in summer, the waterfall trails in the High Tauern are a treat, and rock climbers and bikers are equally rewarded at spots such as Bikepark Leogang. Summer in Austria means strapping on those boots and breathing in that fresh Alpine air, a truly blissful way to enjoy the sunshine.

Culture and the classics are available year-round 

To end on a somewhat unoriginal note, I need to trot out that now famous quote: “The hills are alive with music” – because they very much are, especially in summer.

Mountains and music go hand-in-hand across the country, and summer is perhaps the best time to soak it all up. Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is awash with entertainment during the more than century-old Summer Festival – in fact, Salzburg’s concert programme is packed year-round . In the Leogang Mountains, summer classical performances occur up in the Eastern Alps before being re-played through speakers in little huts.

Across the country, the culture continues. In Graz, the Springfestival marks the arrival of summer in Austria, while Vienna’s museums and cultural institutions are accompanied by plenty of outside events and festivals. Then, in Innsbruck, those long summer evenings mean traditional folk concerts and festivals are in full swing. As tempting as it might be just to sit in a beer garden and soak in the sun by the evening, I’m sure you’ll find those long summer nights in Austria end up being packed out with music, art, festivals and good times.

Best things to do in Austria in summer

Picking out the best things to do in Austria during summer is no easy task, and this list could easily be much longer, but here are just five of my favourite summer activities.

Enjoy a summer city break in Innsbruck

All of Austria’s cities have an awesome atmosphere in summer, but Innsbruck in summer is perhaps the city break most transformed. Spend your days up the top of mountain ranges – you can reach the 2,300-metre heights of the Nordkette Range in around 30 minutes – or watch summer ski jumpers at Zaha Hadid’s impressive Bergisel building. Then, dip into a palace or museum before soaking up the long Tyrol summer nights along the river with entertainment. It’s the perfect pocket-sized Alpine city break.

Hike up The Asitz Mountain

My favourite hike so far in Austria wasn’t the most intense or even the highest. In fact, you can pretty much get to all of The Asitz Mountain’s attractions via cable car. No, what makes the ‘Mountain of Senses’ – as it has been nicknamed – so appealing is the cultural inclusions dotting the mountainside. Sit back on a lazy chair and admire Mother Earth at the ‘Cinemar of Nature’, hike the art gallery trail to the still-water pool installations, or sit inside a small wooden hut called a TONspur and listen to a classical concert replay. This is summer in Austria at its most cultured best.

Enjoy Salzburg’s Summer Festival

There are so many summer events and festivals all around the country, but it’s the Salzburg Summer Festival which has stood the test of time and has been delivering world-class performances for over 100 years. If you’re heading to the city of Mozart in July or August, try and grab a ticket to a concert.

Enjoy some R&R around Salzburgerland’s lakes

Austria’s lakes are something special, and if you visit the country in summer, you’ll certainly see them at their best. My personal favourite is Wolfgangsee as you can get there easily and quickly from Salzburg by public transport; there’s a handful of different villages around with boats connecting them; cable cars will bring you to the mountains alongside the cerulean pool, and watersport rentals are easy to find. If you go, seek out the unique Red Bull HQ nearby – it basically floats above its own lake!

Cruise the Danube River and visit Wachau’s vineyards

You don’t need to be wealthy to enjoy a cruise along the Danube River – at least if only for a day trip. For less than €50, you can book one of the combined boat and train tickets , which will see you sail from Melk (home of the famous Abbey) along the Danube River, spotting castles and vines along the way. Then, for the return, you can take the scenic train through Wachau’s vineyards. It’s a beautiful summer’s day out and, unsurprisingly, one of the most popular ways to spend a day in Austria.

How to spend summer in Austria: three sample itineraries 

Not sure how to spend your summer holiday in Austria? Here are a few of my favourite summer in Austria itinerary suggestions for making the most of one week in the country.

Four fast-paced cities by train

Combine the most famous cities of Austria into a summer train trip over seven fast-paced days. Spend days one and two exploring the two sides of Vienna, with visits to Hofburg Palace and Belvedere Museum, before making time for the more contemporary sights and galleries. On day three, take a train to Graz (approx 2.5 hours) to explore the courtyards, clock tower and Styrian armoury before eating arguably the country’s best cuisine.

On the afternoon of day four, board the train (around 4 hours) to Salzburg , where you can enjoy an evening concert, and then visit the Mirabell Palace and Hohensalzburg Fortress the following day. Day six will see you continue to Innsbruck (2 hours), where you can visit the Imperial Palace and spot the Golden Roof before heading to the Nordkette range on the first cable car of day seven. If that’s a little too fast-paced for you, cut out Graz – it’s an amazing city but a little bit of a detour compared to the others.

Trails and lakes bookended by culture

If you’d prefer to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Salzburgerland and Tyrol, spending a week enjoying landscapes, lakes, and epic trails, then this is the one for you. Spend the first day days of your visit to Salzburg to get a little of the city’s culture before heading out to Salzburgerland’s lakes. Base yourself for a few nights in the cute lakeside town of St Gilgen (reachable by bus from the city) and enjoy everything that summer in Austria celebrates: pristine lakes, hiking trails, cable car rides, and watersports.

Next, take yourself off to Tyrol for a few days. Either base yourself in Innsbruck, and use the Innsbruck card to get to hikes via cable car connections up the Nordkette and Patscherkofel, or if you have a car, you could spend some time hopping between some of Tyrol’s other natural wonders, such as Achen Lake.

Wine and culture road (or train) trip

For my last suggestion – of which there could be many more – why not spend your summer holiday in Austria not just soaking up the landscapes, but also the delicious wine. This would work as a road trip (easier to get to vineyards) if you have a designated driver, but it’s also tempting and pretty straightforward by train if everyone wants to try more than just a sip of wine. I’d also suggest coming towards the end of summer, as the main harvest in Styria starts in September.

Start your trip in Graz to spend a day exploring the UNESCO-listed old town of the city before enjoying a couple of days exploring the nearby Styrian vineyards and farmlands – plan a stop at the Open Air Museum to see historic houses and buildings in a well-preserved state. On day four, head off to Vienna for a night of cultured highlights – palaces, museums, or whatever takes your fancy. Then, spend a couple of days staying alongside the Danube River, perhaps near Melk or Krems, which you can use as a base for Wachau vineyard visits, river cruises, and a guided tour of the impressive Benedictine Melk Abbey.

Or, if you want to be really chill, escape to an Alpine lodge with a sauna, like the gorgeous Stockinggut Leogang , and do nothing but relax, read a book, and admire the views – they are, after all, what makes Austria so special in the first place!

Related Posts:

• Checking in: Stockinggut, Leogang Hotel Review – an almost all-inclusive…
• Escape to the Asitz Mountain, Where Art Meets the Austrian Alps
• Things to Do in Saalfelden Leogang, Austria's Magnificent Mountain Getaway
• Austria's Best Cities for Cross-Border City Breaks
• Summer Highs in Innsbruck, Where the Alps Are for All
• 24 Awesome Things To Do in Austria: Places to Visit, Experiences & Attractions

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

Oct 26, 2021 • 4 min read

Vienna’s annual Christmas market © posztos/Shutterstock

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

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

High Season: June–August 

Best time for festival lovers 

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

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

Shoulder Season: April–May, September–October

Best time for wellness aficionados and active adventure holidaymakers

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

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

Low Season: November–March 

Best time for winter sports enthusiasts  

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

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

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

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

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

Key event : Vienna Opera Ball

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

Key events : Vienna Blues Spring, FotoWien , ART Vienna

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key events : HayART Festival, Mörbischer Vintage Festival

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

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

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

Key events : Festival Wien Modern , Vienna Art Week

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

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

You might also like: A first timer’s guide to Vienna’s winter balls Find mountain majesty on Austria’s best road trips Skiers will love these city breaks in Austria and Germany

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Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

Why Visit Austria In Summer: Holiday Ideas, Reasons & Itineraries

Published: October 3, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Mignon Fike

• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Tips

Introduction

Welcome to Austria, a country known for its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality. While Austria is a fantastic destination to visit all year round, summer is an especially magical time to explore this Central European gem. With its pleasant weather, endless outdoor activities, vibrant festivals, and mouthwatering cuisine, Austria offers a plethora of reasons to plan your summer getaway.

Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, Austria has something to offer every kind of traveler. From hiking in the majestic Alps to exploring charming alpine villages, attending world-class music festivals to indulging in delectable Viennese pastries, your summer in Austria is bound to be an unforgettable experience.

Throughout this article, we will delve into the top reasons why you should visit Austria in summer, along with a variety of holiday ideas, itineraries, and activities to help you plan your perfect trip. So, get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Austria, as we embark on a journey through this enchanting country.

Breathtaking Natural Beauty

Austria is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, with picturesque landscapes that seem straight out of a fairytale. From snow-capped mountains to crystal-clear lakes, dense forests to rolling meadows, there is no shortage of awe-inspiring scenery to discover.

One of the highlights of Austria’s natural beauty is its majestic Alpine range. The country is home to the famous Austrian Alps, which offer endless opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, and mountaineering. The dramatic peaks, lush green valleys, and cascading waterfalls create a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventurers and nature enthusiasts.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Austria’s lakes are a must-visit. The crystal-clear waters of Lake Wolfgang, Lake Hallstatt, and Lake Attersee offer a peaceful oasis surrounded by verdant hills and quaint villages. You can go swimming, take a boat ride, or simply enjoy a picnic by the lake while taking in the serene beauty.

Another natural wonder in Austria is the Danube River, which cuts through the heart of the country. The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a particularly enchanting stretch of the Danube, with vineyards, historic castles, and charming towns dotting the landscape. You can explore this picturesque region by bike, boat, or even on foot, and immerse yourself in its captivating beauty.

Wildlife enthusiasts will also be delighted by Austria’s diverse fauna. The country is home to a wide array of animals, including the adorable alpine marmots, majestic golden eagles, and elusive ibex. Nature reserves, such as the Hohe Tauern National Park and the Kalkalpen National Park, offer opportunities for wildlife spotting and educational nature walks.

Whether you’re an avid hiker, a nature lover, or simply in search of tranquility amidst stunning landscapes, Austria’s natural beauty will leave you in awe. So, don’t forget to pack your camera and immerse yourself in the breathtaking wonders that this country has to offer.

Pleasant Weather

One of the reasons why summer is an ideal time to visit Austria is the pleasant weather that graces the country during this season. The summer months, from June to September, bring warmer temperatures and longer daylight hours, creating the perfect conditions for outdoor exploration and leisure activities.

During summer, Austria experiences average temperatures ranging from 20 to 25 degrees Celsius (68 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit) in the lowlands and valleys. This mild and comfortable weather makes it enjoyable to engage in various outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, cycling, and picnicking in the pristine countryside.

In the higher altitudes of the Austrian Alps, temperatures during the summer months can be slightly cooler, making it an ideal time for mountain enthusiasts to embark on challenging hikes or simply enjoy the cool mountain air. The pleasant weather in the mountains also allows for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a photographer’s dream.

The longer daylight hours during summer provide ample time to explore the many attractions and activities that Austria has to offer. You can make the most of the extended daylight by taking leisurely walks through vibrant city streets, visiting historic attractions, or indulging in al fresco dining at charming outdoor cafes.

It’s important to note that while summer in Austria generally brings pleasant weather, occasional showers or thunderstorms are not uncommon. However, these passing showers often add a touch of freshness to the air and create stunning rainbows against the backdrop of Austria’s stunning landscapes.

Overall, the pleasant weather of Austria’s summers creates an inviting atmosphere for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. So, don’t forget to pack your sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable clothing, and get ready to enjoy all that Austria has to offer under the warm summer sun.

Outdoor Adventures

Austria is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of adventurous activities that allow you to make the most of its stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences or leisurely explorations, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Hiking is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Austria, and it’s easy to see why. With thousands of kilometers of well-marked trails crisscrossing the country, hikers of all levels can immerse themselves in the beauty of the Austrian Alps and beyond. From gentle strolls through alpine meadows to challenging ascents of towering peaks, the hiking options are endless.

Mountain biking is another thrilling adventure that allows you to explore Austria’s diverse terrain. With a vast network of cycling routes and trails, you can pedal your way through mountains, forests, and picturesque valleys while enjoying the spectacular scenery. Many ski resorts also offer mountain bike parks, allowing you to test your skills on specially designed trails.

For water lovers, Austria’s lakes and rivers provide fantastic opportunities for activities such as swimming, kayaking, and rafting. The crystal-clear lakes offer refreshing swimming spots, while the rivers, such as the Salzach and the Inn, are perfect for exhilarating rafting adventures. You can also try your hand at paddleboarding or rent a canoe to peacefully explore the tranquil waters.

Thrill-seekers can also indulge in paragliding or hang gliding to soar above Austria’s stunning landscapes. The thermal currents and breathtaking views make it an unforgettable experience. Alternatively, you can try your hand at canyoning, rappelling down waterfalls, or rock climbing for an adrenaline-fueled adventure.

For those who prefer a slower pace, Austria offers opportunities for horseback riding, golfing, and even hot air ballooning. You can traverse rolling green meadows on horseback, tee off against the backdrop of the Alps, or take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a bird’s-eye view of the country.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or just starting to explore the great outdoors, Austria’s diverse range of outdoor activities ensures that you’ll never be short of thrilling experiences. So, embrace the spirit of adventure and get ready to create lifelong memories in the stunning landscapes of Austria.

Cultural Experiences

Beyond its natural beauty, Austria is also a treasure trove of rich cultural experiences that are sure to captivate visitors. From historic landmarks to world-class music, art, and architecture, there is no shortage of opportunities to immerse yourself in Austria’s vibrant cultural scene.

Vienna, the capital city, is often referred to as the “City of Music” due to its rich musical heritage. It is the birthplace of famous composers such as Mozart, Strauss, and Beethoven, and is home to iconic concert halls like the Vienna State Opera and the Musikverein. Attending a classical music concert or opera performance in Vienna is a must for music lovers.

Art enthusiasts will be delighted by Austria’s impressive collection of art museums and galleries. The Belvedere Palace in Vienna houses an extensive collection of Austrian art, including the renowned works of Gustav Klimt. The Museum Quarter, also in Vienna, showcases contemporary art and hosts various cultural events throughout the year. In Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, you can visit his former residence, now a museum, and explore the city’s baroque architecture.

Austria is also home to numerous magnificent castles and palaces that offer a glimpse into its regal history. Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit, with its opulent interiors and sprawling gardens. Hohensalzburg Fortress in Salzburg and the fortified castle of Hohensalzburg in Innsbruck are equally worth exploring.

Immerse yourself in Austrian traditions by attending one of the many festivals that take place throughout the summer. The Salzburg Festival, held annually in July and August, showcases world-class performances of opera, theater, and classical music. The Bregenz Festival, held on the shores of Lake Constance, offers open-air opera performances on a floating stage. In addition, many lively village festivals celebrate local culture and traditions, complete with traditional costumes, folk music, and delicious food.

To truly experience Austrian culture, indulge in the culinary delights that the country has to offer. Treat yourself to a traditional Wiener Schnitzel, delicious pastries like Sachertorte and Apfelstrudel, and sample local specialties such as Käsespätzle or Tafelspitz. You can also pair your meal with a glass of Austria’s famous wines, which are celebrated worldwide.

Austria’s cultural experiences offer a glimpse into the country’s illustrious past and vibrant present. From music and art to architecture and cuisine, there is a wealth of cultural treasures waiting to be explored and appreciated in this beautiful country.

Picturesque Alpine Villages

One of the most charming aspects of Austria is its collection of picturesque alpine villages that seem straight out of a storybook. Nestled amidst the breathtaking mountains, these idyllic villages offer a glimpse into traditional Austrian life and provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One such village is Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning beauty. Situated by the Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt) and surrounded by towering mountains, this village is like a postcard come to life. With its charming old town, quaint houses adorned with flowers, and a serene lake backdrop, Hallstatt is a true gem waiting to be explored.

In the Salzkammergut region, St. Wolfgang is another picturesque alpine village that exudes charm. Its waterfront promenade, baroque-style church, and narrow cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses make it a popular destination for tourists. Take a stroll along the lake, indulge in local cuisine, and breathe in the tranquility of this enchanting village.

Zell am See is another alpine village that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the glimmering waters of Lake Zell. Here, you can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking, or even take a leisurely boat trip on the lake. In winter, the village transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting skiers and snowboarders from all over the world.

For a truly authentic alpine experience, head to Alpbach. With its quaint wooden farmhouses, flower-filled balconies, and the stunning backdrop of the Tyrolean Alps, Alpbach is a feast for the eyes. This charming village is often referred to as the “most beautiful village in Austria” and is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

These are just a few examples of the many picturesque alpine villages scattered throughout Austria. Each village has its unique charm and character, and whether you’re exploring the scenic beauty, indulging in local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the local culture, you’ll find that these villages offer a truly authentic Austrian experience.

So, take a step back in time and bask in the tranquility and beauty of Austria’s alpine villages. These hidden gems will surely leave a lasting impression and make your summer getaway even more magical.

Festivals and Events

Austria is a country that knows how to celebrate, and summer is a particularly vibrant season when it comes to festivals and events. From music and film to cultural and historical celebrations, there is always something exciting happening in Austria during the summer months.

One of the most prestigious events in Austria is the Salzburg Festival, held annually from late July to the end of August. This renowned festival showcases world-class performances of opera, theater, and classical music in various iconic venues throughout the city of Salzburg. It attracts artists and music enthusiasts from around the globe and is a highlight of Austria’s cultural calendar.

In Vienna, the Vienna Jazz Festival takes center stage in June and July, presenting a lineup of international jazz artists in iconic locations such as the Vienna State Opera and the Vienna Konzerthaus. This event showcases the versatility and vitality of jazz music and adds a lively rhythm to the city’s summer nights.

The Bregenz Festival is another highlight of Austria’s summer festival scene. Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Constance, this open-air festival features impressive opera performances on a floating stage. The combination of music, set design, and natural beauty creates a truly memorable experience.

Austria’s history and traditions come alive through various historical reenactments and cultural celebrations during the summer. The Wiener Rathausplatz turns into a lively outdoor stage during the Vienna Film Festival, where film enthusiasts can enjoy open-air screenings of international movies under the stars.

The city of Innsbruck hosts the “Tiroler Abende” (Tyrolean Evenings), which provide a window into the region’s traditional folk music, dancing, and costumes. Visitors can witness authentic performances, try local specialties, and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere.

In addition to these large-scale festivals, various smaller village festivals take place throughout Austria during the summer months. These celebrations often feature traditional music, dance, and delicious regional food and drinks, providing a unique opportunity to experience Austrian culture firsthand.

Whether you’re a music lover, a film enthusiast, or simply want to immerse yourself in Austrian culture, the festivals and events of Austria offer a vibrant and unforgettable summer experience. So, mark your calendars and get ready to join in the celebrations.

Delicious Culinary Delights

No visit to Austria is complete without indulging in its mouthwatering culinary delights. From hearty traditional dishes to delectable pastries, the country’s cuisine offers a tantalizing blend of flavors and influences that will leave you craving for more.

One iconic Austrian dish that you must try is Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet. Served with a slice of lemon and typically accompanied by potato salad or warm potato dishes, this classic dish is a true Austrian favorite. The crispy exterior and tender meat make it a delight for the taste buds.

Another must-try is Tafelspitz, which is boiled beef served with horseradish sauce, apple and horseradish compote, and a side of vegetables and potatoes. This traditional dish is a staple of Viennese cuisine and is known for its exquisite flavors and tender meat.

If you have a sweet tooth, Austria’s pastries and desserts will not disappoint. Try an Apple Strudel (Apfelstrudel), a delicate pastry filled with cinnamon-spiced apples and served with vanilla sauce or ice cream. The Sachertorte, a famous Viennese chocolate cake layered with apricot jam and covered in dark chocolate, is also a must-try for any dessert lover.

Austria is also famous for its delicious cheeses, such as the creamy and tangy Bergkäse and the aromatic Alpensittich. Pair these cheeses with a glass of Austrian wine, and you have a match made in culinary heaven.

Additionally, Austria’s cuisine is heavily influenced by neighboring countries such as Italy, Hungary, and the Czech Republic. This cultural fusion can be seen in dishes like Goulash, a hearty stew with tender chunks of beef, paprika, and spices, and Käsespätzle, a comforting dish of homemade egg noodles topped with melted cheese and served with caramelized onions.

Don’t forget to sip on a cup of Vienna Coffee while you’re in Austria. This traditional coffee is characterized by its smooth taste, rich aroma, and a dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s the perfect pick-me-up during a day of sightseeing or a cozy companion for a leisurely afternoon.

Whether you’re a meat lover, a dessert aficionado, or simply enjoy exploring new flavors, Austria’s culinary delights will satisfy your taste buds. So, be sure to indulge in the country’s rich and delicious cuisine during your summer visit.

Relaxation and Wellness

If you’re seeking a rejuvenating getaway, Austria offers the perfect setting for relaxation and wellness. The country is renowned for its spa resorts, thermal baths, and natural wellness retreats that cater to your physical and mental well-being.

Austria is home to numerous thermal baths and spas that harness the healing powers of natural mineral-rich waters. The thermal waters are believed to have therapeutic properties and are perfect for soaking and unwinding. The cities of Baden bei Wien, Bad Ischl, and Bad Gastein are famous for their thermal springs, offering a range of spa treatments, saunas, and wellness programs.

In addition to thermal baths, Austria’s Alpine region provides a tranquil environment for relaxation and outdoor activities. You can immerse yourself in the pristine nature, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and find peace amidst breathtaking landscapes. Many alpine resorts offer wellness retreats where you can indulge in yoga classes, meditation sessions, and rejuvenating spa treatments.

Austria is also known for its wellness hotels and resorts, which offer top-notch facilities and programs designed to promote relaxation and overall well-being. Whether you prefer a luxury spa resort in the mountains or a lakeside retreat, you can find a variety of options to suit your preferences.

For a unique wellness experience, you can visit the Gastein Valley, famous for its radon therapy, which utilizes low-level radiation from radon gas to alleviate joint and muscle pain. This natural therapy is conducted in specialized facilities under medical supervision and is believed to have beneficial effects on the body.

Aside from spa treatments and wellness activities, Austria’s serene natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for outdoor relaxation. You can take leisurely walks in lush forests, enjoy picnics by picturesque lakes, or simply sit back and soak up the tranquil atmosphere.

To complement your relaxation, don’t forget to indulge in Austria’s nutritious and wholesome cuisine. Many wellness retreats and spa resorts offer healthy menus with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, ensuring that you can nourish your body from within.

Whether you’re looking to de-stress, rejuvenate, or simply find peace and tranquility, Austria’s relaxation and wellness offerings provide the ideal environment to unwind and take care of your well-being. So, why not treat yourself to a delightful escape and return home feeling refreshed and revitalized?

Family-Friendly Activities

Austria is a fantastic destination for a family vacation, offering a wide range of activities that will keep both children and adults entertained and engaged. From adventure parks to educational museums, there is no shortage of family-friendly experiences to enjoy in this beautiful country.

One popular attraction for families is the Prater amusement park in Vienna. This iconic amusement park is home to the famous Riesenrad Ferris wheel, which offers panoramic views of the city. Along with thrilling rides, there are also kid-friendly attractions, such as carousels, a playground, and even a puppet theater.

The Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens is another must-visit for families. This unique museum showcases an impressive collection of crystal sculptures, art installations, and interactive exhibits. Children will be enchanted by the sparkling wonders, and there is even a playtower and a large outdoor play area to keep them entertained.

For those looking to immerse themselves in nature, the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave in Werfen is an incredible experience. This natural wonder is the largest ice cave in the world and offers guided tours that take you through a magical icy labyrinth. Children will be in awe of the icy formations and glittering ice crystals.

The city of Salzburg also offers family-friendly activities, such as the Salzburg Zoo. This spacious zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and monkeys. Children can learn about different animal species and enjoy educational activities throughout the zoo.

If your family enjoys outdoor adventures, head to the Tyrol region, where you’ll find numerous opportunities for hiking, biking, and adventure sports. The Krimml Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in Europe, is a breathtaking sight and offers hiking trails suitable for families with children.

Theme parks are also popular in Austria, with attractions such as the Familypark Neusiedlersee and Area 47 in the Ötztal Valley. These parks offer a wide range of activities, including water slides, mini-golf, climbing walls, and even bungee jumping, ensuring that there is something for everyone in the family to enjoy.

Additionally, many cities and towns in Austria organize special events and festivals that cater to families during the summer months. These include street parades, children’s workshops, and interactive performances that offer fun and entertainment for the whole family.

With its diverse range of family-friendly activities and attractions, Austria provides a perfect setting for a memorable and enjoyable family vacation. Whether you’re exploring museums, enjoying outdoor adventures, or visiting amusement parks, rest assured that your family will have a wonderful time creating lasting memories in the beautiful landscapes of Austria.

Itinerary Ideas

Creating the perfect itinerary for your summer trip to Austria is key to maximizing your experience and making the most of your time in this beautiful country. Here are a few itinerary ideas to help you plan your Austrian adventure:

Vienna and Salzburg Combo: Start your trip in Vienna, where you can explore the city’s historic landmarks, such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Schönbrunn Palace. Enjoy a classical music concert at the Vienna State Opera before taking a scenic train ride to Salzburg. In Salzburg, visit Mozart’s birthplace, explore the charming old town, and take a boat ride on Lake Wolfgang.

Alpine Adventure: Begin your journey in Innsbruck, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery. Take a cable car ride to the top of the Nordkette mountain range for breathtaking views. Then, head to Zell am See-Kaprun, a picturesque lakeside town nestled in the Austrian Alps. Enjoy water sports on Lake Zell and hike in the nearby Hohe Tauern National Park.

Lakes and Mountains: Start in Hallstatt, a fairy-tale village by Lake Hallstatt. Explore the salt mines and take a boat ride on the lake. Then, head to the Salzkammergut region, where you can visit the charming towns of St. Wolfgang and St. Gilgen, both situated on the shores of Lake Wolfgang. End your trip in the scenic town of Bad Ischl, famous for its thermal baths and imperial history.

Family Fun: Begin in Vienna, where kids can enjoy the Prater amusement park and visit the Schönbrunn Zoo. From there, head to the Wachau Valley and take a boat ride on the Danube River. Continue to Salzburg for a visit to the Salzburg Zoo and a day trip to the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave. End your trip at Area 47, an adventure park in the Ötztal Valley that offers a range of thrilling activities.

Cultural Delights: Start in Vienna and immerse yourself in the city’s cultural heritage, visiting museums, enjoying classical music performances, and savoring Viennese cuisine. Then, travel to Graz, Austria’s second-largest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its historic old town and admire the modern architecture. Finally, head to Salzburg for its music festivals, historic attractions, and stunning natural surroundings.

Remember to customize these itineraries based on your preferences and the length of your trip. Whether you’re seeking art and culture, outdoor adventures, or a mix of both, Austria has something for everyone. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe.

Austria is a country that truly has it all – breathtaking natural landscapes, a rich cultural heritage, delicious cuisine, and a myriad of activities and experiences to delight every traveler. Summer, in particular, is a magical time to visit this Central European gem.

From the picturesque alpine villages to the vibrant cities, Austria offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for visitors of all ages and interests. The stunning natural beauty of the Austrian Alps, crystal-clear lakes, and lush valleys provide a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Hiking, biking, and water sports are just a few of the activities that await you amidst the awe-inspiring landscapes.

In addition, Austria’s rich cultural scene, with its renowned music festivals, museums, and architectural wonders, offers a glimpse into the country’s artistic and historical treasures. Indulge in the local cuisine, from traditional dishes like the famous Wiener Schnitzel to delectable pastries like the Sachertorte.

For relaxation and wellness, Austria’s thermal baths, wellness resorts, and serene natural surroundings provide the perfect setting to rejuvenate the mind and body. And let’s not forget the family-friendly attractions and activities that make Austria an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.

Whether you choose to explore the vibrant cities of Vienna and Salzburg, immerse yourself in the tranquility of the alpine villages, or embark on thrilling adventures in the great outdoors, Austria will captivate you with its beauty, culture, and warm hospitality.

So, plan your visit to Austria in the summer and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey. Embrace the breathtaking landscapes, immerse yourself in the rich heritage, and create lasting memories in a country that is sure to leave a lasting imprint on your heart.

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How to Plan the Best Summer in Austria with Kids – 7 day Tirol Itinerary

Table of Contents

Summer in Austria with Kids

A Summer in Austria has been a dream of mine for a long time. To breathe in the pure mountain air, admire the spectacular views, dance on the hills, I wanted to do it all! I am curious about the alps in the winter, and I really want to take the children on a family skiing holiday , but it is the mountains in the summer that I have been pining for – And this year (2022) my dream came true.

I had to pinch myself just an hour in to the flight. As I peered out of the window, there they were – sparkling in the afternoon light were the mountains. They totally blew me away. Always take the window seat for this reason – it’s honestly magical.

**We were invited to Tirol to experience summer in Austria in exchange for this article.

Where is Austria? 

Austria is a mountainous landlocked country in Central Europe, it shares borders with the Czech Republic and Germany to the north, Slovakia and Hungary to the east, Slovenia and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. It is a beautiful country with lakes surrounded by flowers, mountains and waterfalls, stunning traditional architecture and Austrian landmarks .

There are so many places to visit in Austria but  Tirol  is one of the most beautiful regions to go in the summer.

The Region of Tirol 

The Region of Tirol is a stunning western Austrian state in the Alps that is famous for its ski resorts, historic sites and traditional folk style, but visiting in the summer is totally out of this world.

The capital city, Innsbruck is surrounded by mountains and is home to Habsburg Empire landmarks such as the baroque-style Hofburg Palace and Gothic Hofkirche Church.

Two areas we explored on our first family holiday to Tirol were Wilder Kaiser and Alpbachtal.

In summer, Wilder Kaiser offers plenty of enjoyment for a family holiday. There are so many things to do in Wilder Kaiser ,  with many places to visit and fantastic vistas that will make everybody feel happy. The Kaiser mountains are seen to the north and in the south there are smaller mountains and hills, offering easier hikes for the family.

There are four main towns in Wilder Kaiser – Going, Ellmau, Scheffau and Söll. The mountainous area in the east of Tirol has lots of walking trails and children can look forward to six outdoor adventure attractions which are totally amazing. They were so much fun and completely unexpected in Austria.

Nature lovers will love “Moor & More” in Going, an area of wetland and the region also has a number of indoor and outdoor swimming pools such as the Kaiserbad Ellmau.

Alpbachtal is a town in western Austria in the state of Tirol in a beautiful location 1,000m above sea level, it has been voted to be  “Austria´s most beautiful village” and it really is. Everywhere is just gorgeous.

There’s lots of family things to do in Alpbachtal as well as enjoying the fresh air, meadows and breathtaking mountain views and typical timber houses. Whether you want to hike, cycle or just relax, Alpbach is an unforgettable place for an Austrian holiday.

Alpbach’s hotel accommodation is clad in the traditional wood, a local regulation which has earned the resort the title of the prettiest village in Austria in the past. The hotels in the main part of the village are clustered around the village church with chalets, hotels and shops.

Is Austria Good for Families?

People have been surprised when I have told them how family friendly Austria is and I know I have already convinced many families to book a family holiday to Austria already! There are plenty of child-friendly attractions and many restaurants that offer great food options for children and many with play areas, parks and outdoor nature spots.

Being one of the most scenic and historically rich countries in Europe, Austria is great for seeing some culture and for adventure-loving families. From hiking, skiing, llama trekking and swimming in the breath-taking lakes – families will be spoiled for choice in Austria.

Flying to Austria – Where are the Airports in Austria?

In Austria there are six international airports. Austria’s three major airports are in Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck ensuring that the country is well connected both nationally and internationally.

The three other smaller airports are in Klagenfurt, Graz and and Linz.

We flew in to Innsbruck airport. It was just an hour and a half from London which makes Austria just as perfect for a short family break as a two week family holiday. For us personally, we were staying a week in two different regions but honestly, there was so much to see and do, we could have easily enjoyed summer in Austria for much longer!

Summer in Austria – Where to Stay

When planning a summer trip to  Austria , we really recommend spending time in the Austrian Alps. Here you are more immersed in the great outdoors where you can enjoy hiking, cycling, climbing and plenty of other fun outdoor activities.

The Tyrolean areas of Wilder Kaiser  and Alpbachtal are all beautiful places to base yourself in Austria in the Summer. In the evening, restaurants and hotels host Tyrolean bands, creating a steady stream of music that accompanies you from one side of town to the other.

Our Summer in Tirol, Austria 

We stayed in the beautiful region of Tirol, at two different locations. Wilder Kaiser for 4 nights and then at Alpbach for 3. It worked perfectly and they were were only 45 minutes apart.

The drive from Innsbruck airport to our first destination, Wilder Kaiser was just over an hour by car. We got so excited as soon as we came off the main roads and became surrounded by mountains and hills. It honestly felt like we were on set of the Sound of Music – One of my all time favourite films. Julie Andrews is so wonderful.

Where is Wilder Kaiser and Alpbach?

Both Wilder Kaiser and Alpbach were very easy to navigate and offered heaps of family friendly attractions for all ages.

Where to stay in Austria – Accommodation for a Week in Austria – Tyrol

Knowing our children as well as we do, we knew that farm stays in Austria would work really well for us. The girls would love farm life, have animals to help with and there would be lots of space for them to run about.

The two farms we stayed on were  Farm Wolfseggstal in  Going and  Schneiderhäusl in Alpbach.

Farm Wolfseggstal 

Our first farm,  Farm Wolfseggstal  in Going was perfect.

We had a 2 bedroom apartment on the top floor of the owners house (this is quite normal in Austria) which had a kitchen, lounge and family bathroom with a shower. The was a door in both the lounge and the bedroom which led out to a balcony which had beautiful views of the hills. I could have sat there all day.

Farm stays are well known for giving families hands on experiences to farm life. The girls loved to watch the cows being milked, grooming the pony and cuddling the chickens (I think my girls are the only ones who can ever catch a chicken, let alone cuddle them!).

With acres of land for the girls to run about in, it kept them so happy, especially when they spotted the swings, sandpit, hammock, and football goals.

There was also a lovely playroom in the house and a games room in the garage with a football table, table tennis table which was also home to various ride-ons for toddlers.

The farm can cater up to 30 people so it was nice for the girls to have other children around and we boarded on a B&B basis.

Farm Schneiderhäusl

The second farm we stayed on was again beautifully located in the hills with amazing views over Alpachtal. The town of Alpachtal is 45 mins away from Wilder Kaiser. We absolutely loved exploring the two different regions.

Schneiderhäusl was a much smaller set up. Again we were on the top floor or the owners chalet and this apartment had 3 bedrooms, kitchen/dining room and a balcony.

Outside there were goats and a rabbit, along with a small play area with swings and a little wooden house and slide.

Tirol with Kids

Our 7 days in Tyrol was so much fun. All of us loved every second and we made so many family memories. The girls were just 4 and 6 at the time of our trip (2022) but this is a region that would suit kids of all ages. The younger children enjoy the family attractions, whilst bigger kids would rise to the mountain challenges with heaps of places suitable for ebikes.

7 days in Tirol 

We had an action packed family holiday in Austria planned. I always plan out our holidays in advance so I can make sure I have packed the right things for us all and so that we are not spending our evenings researching things to do in Austria.

READ: See our holiday packing guide here.

We had such a wonderful family holiday in Austria, that I want to share our exact Tirol Itinerary with you. I don’t think we would have changed a thing…. Except for extending it!

The days out were perfect for the girls ages and everyone could join in. We had a mix of visiting attractions and exploring Tirol too.

Our 7 day Tirol Itinerary – Austria with Kids

Our trip consisted of 4 nights in Wilder Kaiser and  3 nights in Alpbachtal.

Day 1 – Arrive in Austria

It was late in the day when our flight arrived in to Austria and so we knew we wouldn’t have any time to explore on our first day.

We had booked dinner ahead which is worth considering on your first night. We picked up the hire car and made our way down the E45 to Wilder Kaiser, Tirol to our accommodation which took an hour and ten minutes.

Our home for 4 nights was in Farm Wolfseggstal.

Our chalet was in Going, a small village in Wilder Kaiser. Whilst the centre was not far away, it was getting late and so we took the short drive to dinner in Lanzenhof in Going – A typical Restaurant in the heart of Going. It catered for both adults and children well and the food was good. For those with fussy eaters like mine most restaurants offered fish fingers, sausages, chips and spaghetti bolognaise.

Look out for live music and village concerts in Austria. The communities are small and festive which we loved. Upon leaving dinner we heard music… we followed the sounds to find a small open air theatre outside the church with traditional Austrian music to which the girls danced the night away to – what an Tyrolian welcome we got!

Day 2 – Astberg Ponyalm

We had an exciting start to the day because we got to use a chair lift for the first time – this was just as fun as any attraction. The ski lift is operated by the SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser and you have to get your tickets at the base of the mountain. We were heading up the mountain to Ponyalm.

It was seriously cool making our way up – even I was excited. What a great way to travel and it’s even more exciting when you are about to be surrounded by 20 ponies at the top – can you imagine the girls faces when we arrived and I told them they were going horse riding!

Astberg Ponyalm is for horse lovers of all ages but the ponies are small so we left the riding to the girls.

Accompanied by an adult, children can ride ponies and discover the area surrounding the Astberg mountain. You can head off around a trail with views across the mountains – so beautiful.

The ponies aren’t the only animals on the Astberg mountain. You can also feed and pet small animals at the petting zoo. They are all very friendly!

Alongside the animals is the most gorgeous walk around Astberglake. It is only a short walk but it is one of the most famous photo spots in the region.  The children will love the playground along the way with a perfect view of the Wilder Kaiser Range!

Lunch: Our Recommendation would be the “Brenner Alm”, which is a short walk down.

Dinner: Die Ellmau Alm – a traditional mountain chalet on the outskirts of Ellmau.

Day 3 – Llama Trekking

Llama-Trekking on the “Koglhof” in Ellmau was such a fun activity. The Koglhof is set in the mountains, owned by the Oberhofer family since 1942. It’s an amazing experience which you can do in a private group or as part of a bigger trek.

Everyone gets to lead a llama, even Matilda who was in her element. The llama experience starts by you getting to know your llama, giving it a groom, followed by a leisurely, unhurried walk. It was the perfect way to experience the mountains on the paths suited to the llamas.

After the llamas, we headed in to Ellmau for a little explore. The villages in Tirol are beautiful.

If there’s one thing the Austrians do really well (in addition to the Alps, ski resorts and wiener schnitzel, of course), it’s window box flower displays.

Almost every building in Austria is adorned with balcony boxes that transform a house into a colourful, welcoming feast for the eyes. Geraniums and petunias are the main flower!

In the evening we enjoyed Dort-Fest in Scheffau – a traditional town fete with dinner in Ellmau: Heuriger – Ellmau. You could also opt for the Pizzeria Memory in Ellmau.

Day 4 – Hexenwasser, Söll, – The Witches’ Water Theme Park

It’s back up the mountains today for a two part adventure. This cablecar, operated by SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser – Brixental takes you up to the Hexenwasser Theme Park, and then a second cable car takes you to the top of the Hohe-Salve mountain – also a must!

We went straight to the top to explore first.

Wow – what a view. Even the children were mesmerised. We stood watching the paragliders launch off the mountains and glide over the valley – something that is on my bucket list for next time.

It wasn’t long before the girls spotted the small play area so they ran off to play whilst we continued to take in the surroundings.

At the top there is also the coolest revolving restaurant Bergrestaurant Hohe-Salve – It took us a while to realise we were moving but it’s incredible. The centre tables move round so that everyone can enjoy the view – it’s one to add to your list of must places to eat – just for the experience. But the chicken wings were delicious too!

After lunch we dropped down on the cablecar to Hexenwasser – wow, what an adventure we had – it’s totally awesome! But then every day is here in Tirol with kids!

You can’t miss the Mountain Adventure World of “Hexenwasser”. Hexenwasser is a water based adventure playground where you find the witches of Söll! Take sunscreen and swimwear and you will have a blast!

It is Austria’s longest barefoot trail leads over grass, bark mulch, through woodlands, massaging stones and rippling water to numerous stations where all the senses are addressed in a new way. But I would take shoes you can get wet – UK feet are not quite as hardcore as the Austrians!

Lunch – Bergrestaurant Hohe-Salve

Dinner – We ate in the apartment

Day 5 – Going Swimming Lakes

This was our last day in Wilder Kaiser. Today we packed up early, made a picnic and headed to a local mountain lake in the village. It was such good fun and so nice to be swimming in the natural waters!

It’s located right next to the forest edge and offers panoramic views of the Kaisergebirge mountain range. Fed by the springs of the Wilder Kaiser mountain range and featuring a flat, white beach with separate children’s and non-swimmer zones with smaller slides and water play.

There’s 2 one hundred-metre-long open-air slides, taking this bathing lake to the next level. While children run around in the adventure park with pirate ship, grown-ups enjoy a bite to eat in the lake buffet or enjoy sunbathing.

PRICES FOR ACTIVITIES IN WILDER KAISER CAN BE FOUND HERE.

Day 5 afternoon: Move to Alpbachtal – Farm Stay  Schneiderhäusl

Alpbach is a 45 mins drive to Wilder Kaiser.

We settled in and made our way to dinner at Messners – Pizza

Our evening was spent in Reith im Alpbachtal at a gorgeous village music festival which shared such a wonderful vibe with both its residence and visitors to the region. Everyone is so friendly. Make sure you ask your hosts if they know of any festivals in the area when you arrive – Many offer food and music so you can make a whole evening of it.

Day 6  – Hike to Wiedersberger Horn & Lauser-Sauser – The Alpine Rollercoaster

Up up we go…. Ascent with the Wiedersberberhorn cable car in the village of Alpbach.

NOTE: When you arrive at your accommodation, you will be given an Alpachtal Card – it is really important you keep this with you as it gets you up the mountain for free.

The Alpbach Card is great for all ages and offers numerous possibilities to explore the Alpbachtal holiday region. The Alpbachtal Card is issued by your host from your first overnight stay and includes a variety of services such as summer mountain lifts, the regional bus, swimming pools, and more.

We couldn’t come to Austria and not take the girls on a hike. They are pretty good with hikes and so many are family friendly in the Austrian Alps, many of which offer the most incredible views. On this occasion, we chose a short hike (45 mins up and 30 mins back down) for the girls but it was a steep climb which was the challenge. As always they were excited by it and marched their way up and were so chuffed by their achievement – We enjoyed a picnic lunch with a view!

Lunch recommendations: Berggasthof Hornboden

Add this to your Tirol days out list now… Ride on the  Alpine Rollercoaster  “Alpbachtaler Lauser-Sauser”  – The alpine coasters are just so much fun – we absolutely loved it and  all rode it twice.

The Alpine Coaster of the Alpbachtal valley, the “Lauser-Sauser”, was the highlight of the 4 year old’s holiday. Matilda absolutely loved it – I think she’s going to be our little thrill seeker!

The adventure begins right at the top of Wiedersberger Hornbahn Gondola, at the popular adventure playground Lauserland.

We have had so much fun in Lausersauser. Lausersauser at Wiedersberger Horn is another mountain attraction. It’s an enchanting forest playground with 40 playstations, with giant pillow leaps and an alpine rollercoaster!

Geared towards thrill-seekers, the Alpine Coaster in Alpbach provides one and a half kilometers of gravity driven twists and turns. This is the highest of its kind to be found in all of Austria, giving kids and adults an especially wild plunge at speeds up to 40 kilometers an hour – and yes Matilda wanted to go faster!

Dinner – Hotel zur Post in Alpbach

Day 7 – A beautiful day on the Lake

We spent our final day relaxing by the lake and it was the best way to finish off the most fabulous week.

Drive to Kramsach, Reintalersee car park  – Parking fees at the lakes, mountain railways etc. are not included with the card.

The Alpachtal Valley is home to many natural swimming lakes, including the Reintalersee which is the largest and warmest in the town of Kramsach. It’s a popular choice for visitors in the summer but there is a lot of space around the lake at various points for visitors to spread out.

We based ourselves by the Fischerstube restaurant where we also enjoyed lunch which had an amazing view over the lake -make sure you sit upstairs.

Facilities around the lake include well-tended sunbathing lawns, changing cabins, children’s play areas, a beach volleyball court, a boat rental service – the girls loved the paddle boats and a campsite as well as a number of hiking paths with great views.

If you feel like a walk, you can enjoy the walk to the idyllic Berglsteinersee (approx. 30 minutes) Circular walk around the Berglsteinersee lake but today we opted for a chilled day.

Lunch on return directly at the Reintalersee.

Dinner – Conny’s in Inneralpbach – super child friendly with an outdoor and indoor play area.

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE ACTIVITIES IN ALPBACHTAL, TAKE A LOOK ON THEIR WEBSITE

Day 8 – Home

It was a sad day for us all!

How to Book your Summer in Austria with Kids

This concludes our amazing alpine adventure in Tirol. Wow what an adventure it was. What a country. It’s honestly one of the most beautiful family holidays we have had – A summer in Austria is the place to be.

This holiday was all booked independently but it was super easy.

The accommodation can be found through Urlaub Am Bauernhof  , flights were with EasyJet (Gatwick to Innsbruck) and Car hire with SIXT at Innsbruck airport.

All attractions were a max of 15 minutes from our accommodation and can be booked on the day – but keep an eye on the websites for any changes.

More Things to do in Summer in Austria with Kids

There is so much to do in the summer in Austria with kids. You can walk through the alpine pastures, bathe or swim in a lake, go hiking and admire the beautiful mountain scenery, biking or boating, stroll through a forest, trek with llamas or go pony riding up a mountain.

Head into a city and admire the history and architecture and experience the local food and drinks. There are so many outdoor activities to take part in as well as more relaxing days spending time unwinding in nature.

We have written two amazing family days out guides to inspire your family days out in Austria; Things to do in Wilder Kaiser in Summer and Things to do in Alpbach in Summer – enjoy!

FAQ about Austria with Kids

What is the best month to visit austria with kids.

The best time to visit Austria for outdoor activities is during their summer between June and August, July is often considered to have the best weather though. Austria’s Spring falls between April and May, and Autumn falls between September and October. June to August is considered to be the high tourist season due to the sunny weather but it wasn’t busy like other European countries. We really felt like we lucked out there. Attractions were quiet and we always got a lunch/dinner reservation.

Is Austria with kids better in summer or winter?

For most tourists, winter is the natural choice with its wonderful skiing and Christmas markets, but don’t dismiss the summer. It is honestly amazing and Austria has won us over. It will always hold a special place in our hearts as it has many mountain lovers out there!

What is Austria like in summer? What is the weather like in Austria in the summer?

Most people love to visit Austria in summer months. Summers can be beautifully hot, with temperatures sometimes reaching up to 30 degrees Celsius. But with the mountain breeze, it makes the temperature perfect for summer activities. With plenty of activities and places to visit and of course the beautiful landscapes, Austria is a great choice for a family summer holiday. The hottest month in Austria is usually July.

When does summer start in Austria?

Summer in Austria with kids begins in late June and ends in late September.

Is Austria Baby Friendly? 

Most places in Austria are very baby-friendly and you will have no problem with a pushchair in local towns. Bringing a baby carrier along would be sensible, especially if you are planning on doing lots of hiking.

It was such a fabulous week in Austria, I cannot recommend this holiday enough. There’s is so much on offer for families – Summer in Austria is the place to come!

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Hi, I’m Anna, a travel loving wife to Tristan and Mother to 6 year old twins Poppy and Tabitha, their 3 year old sister Matilda, and together we are Twins and Travels.

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Why Summer in Austria Will Make You Feel Better

June 12, 2022

What do you know about summer in Austria? We can guarantee it’s not enough! Here’s our inside guide to making the most of Austria’s warmer months. 

Also, take a look at summer in St Johann in Tirol and summer in Lech.

Find peace in Austria in the summer…

Table of Contents

Summer in Austria

Summer in Austria spills sunlight over mountain peaks and covers the snow in a carpet of glitter. In the Austrian Alps, hiking paths and ski resorts create the perfect playground for both outdoor activity and wellness and relaxation. But if your mental picture of summer in Austria stops right after images of hikers (and, let’s face it, probably yodelling) then it’s time to think again. Those warmer months open up a huge wealth of activities, both outdoor and otherwise, with regional differences to set your travel heart on fire. Plus, it’s a genuinely family friendly destination, in terms of food, activities and the welcome you’ll receive. 

Here’s our inside guide to planning a trip to Austria in summertime.

Austria in Summertime Video Travel Guide

Disclosure: we travelled to the Austrian Alps with some support from Visit Austria. As ever, as always, we kept the right to write what we like. If you book or buy through some of the links on this page, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Cheers!

Alpine villages look beautiful in the summer…

Why you should go

Austria is one of the unsung heroes of travel in Europe! Seriously! While the world knows of its spiky peaks and alpine huts, almost everything else passes under the radar. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, daring design projects, traditional gastronomy and enough cheese to sink a ship if you can find one. For while Austria no longer has a coastline (losing Trieste at the end of World War One,) she still has rivers and lakes aplenty. There’s even an underground river in an ice cavern if you want to feel what it’s like to swim below zero. 

From her cities to her peaks, I’ve visited several times over several years and always find something new to intrigue my mind and something beautiful to inspire my soul.

It’s impossible to cover everything this European country has to offer in this one article. So let me give you an overview of the joys of summer in Austria, with some deep dive links and resources for you to follow up on. Read more about travel in Austria here.

Four ways an Austrian summer trip will help your wellbeing

Research shows us more and more often that the key to a happy, healthy life involves mixing exercise and activity with mental stimulation, quiet time and strong, nurturing relationships.

Here’s how you can easily do all of those things in Austria in summer:

• Exercise: hiking, biking, swimming, cycling, skiing, mountain karting, snowboarding… you get the idea.
• Exercise the mind: museums, art galleries, musical concerts, craft.
• Quieten the mind and rest the body: spas, saunas, forest bathing.
• Relationships: easy solo, family and group travel options.

Things to do in Austria in Summer

You’re forgiven if, like me, your mind ran out of ideas at first when you wondered what you could do in Austria in the summer. Vienna? Yes. Hiking? Yes, yes. But after that? Shhh. It’s time to spill the beans and share the secrets. But just between you and me, right?

Let’s start at the very beginning. A very good place to start. 

You will find hiking routes for all ages (and cable bars for tired legs…)

Hiking is the most entry level outdoor adventure you can find – and Austria is the place for it. You can hike through grassy meadows and moors, wild flowers tickling your feet. You can climb rugged peaks and feel your boots bounce through the moss of deep green forests where you can’t see the sky…and allow the soft spray of waterfalls refresh your face while your breath catches up. Oh, add in crossing some glacial rivers and taking shelter in cute mountain huts with locally made cheese and it’s hard to find better ground to hike on. 

What’s even better is that the hotels in the Austrian Alps are fully prepared for muddy hikers. So whether you need to borrow an umbrella or soak off sore muscles or store your boots out of the way of all the rest of your kit, you will find everything you need here.

Boating through an underground Ice Palace

How does floating through a natural underground ice palace sound to you? In Austria in the summer? Well, step right up or slither right down through the snow to the Natureisplast on the Hintertux Glacier in Zillertal.

Only recently discovered and still undergoing excavation, this series of tunnels and walkways in the ice gives Elsa from Frozen a run for her money. 

Children around 5-6 or older can visit with an appropriate adult but a word of warning: the floor is slippery (it’s ice!) and they’ll need to climb ladders. You need to arrange a guide and remember to wrap up warm as temperatures hover around zero degrees. 

Mountain Karting

As a kind of cross between a dodgem and a downhill sled, mountain karting laughs in the face of gravity and splatters mud in the name of fun. Take, for example, the mountain karting set up in St Johann in Tirol. There, you can take the cable car half way up the mountain and then zoom right back down again. Small children can travel with their parents – and the rather less adventurous can take a look and then take the cable car back down again!

Whether long distance or short, e-powered or pedal power, lycra or baggy shorts, you’ll find the cycling route to suit your needs in Austria in summer. You will also see little carts that attach to bikes for very young children. Only for those with very strong thighs…

Looking up at the Golden Roof in Innsbruck…

Sightseeing

With all the mountain adventures we’ve been talking about, it’s easy to forget just how many incredible sights there are to see. 

Just off the top of my head, in the Austrian Alps alone, you have:

• The Schloss Ambras with its extensive collection of armour
• The Golden Roof in Innsbruck, the city surrounded by mountains.
• The Friendly Alien modern art museum in Graz. Just one of the many unique things to do in Graz, Austria’s UNESCO City of Design.
• Read more about sightseeing in Austria here.

Cheese tasting

Mountains and cheese go together like salt and vinegar, Torvill and Dean or macaroni and, well, cheese again. 

Summer in Austria is a great time to make the most of the Austrian love for cheese (there is even a 100 km Cheese Road, for example!)

And in a small village near Kirchdorf, you can see how cheese is made and sample local specialties surrounded by, yes, more stunning views. And just for those who love a good word play, it’s called Wilder Käser , for the cheese right next to the Wilder Kaiser Mountains.  

Schnapps sipping

If there’s one surprise that came out of my visit to Austria this summer, it was to discover that, actually, I quite like schnapps. 

Where I’d gone wrong before was going to the wrong place. 

Once you taste the liquor at a distillery where the drinks are actually made, the fruity zest tastes fresher, the nuts nuttier. And there is even a lovely blend of strawberry and orange for little ones. They call it Schiwasser.

Fancy a taste? Head to the Aggstein Schnaps near St Johann in Tirol (that’s not a typo. The Austrian way is to use one p in Schnapps…)

Great swimming and great views at the Hotel Seetal in Zillertal

If there’s one thing that Austria does well (and there isn’t, there’s several) it’s spas and wellness techniques. So many hotels have wellness areas, ranging from a few seats on a roof terrace with calming music to an entire suite of spa facilities, from massages to steam rooms and saunas. And many have open access to the beautiful outdoors. 

In particular, we loved the infinity pool at the Seetal Family Alpin Resort in Zilleral. 

A word to the wise: it’s traditional for people to go into the sauna in the nude. You have been warned!

Swimming 

Along with general wellness facilities, many hotels also have their own pool, either inside or outside or both. 

That said, nature has created plenty of swimming opportunities herself. Austrians decamp to the lakes instead of the beach when the temperature rises. 

And the truly brave or crazy go ice swimming in the Hintertux glacial river… 

While all families can enjoy most of the water fun, that last one is reserved for truly experienced athletes. For obvious reasons. Right?!

Wildlife spotting

OK, so you may not find elephants and rhinos on the alpine slopes but you will find more than you might imagine. Birdsong fills the air from dawn til dusk and cows, horses and goats frolic through the meadows in the picturesque way that they should. 

To learn more about both the flora and fauna, head to the Alpenzoo in Innsbruck. This educational centre focuses on animals that belong in the area, allowing them to be nocturnal if they are nocturnal and refusing to put on a show. 

You may be surprised to learn that beavers, marmots and even lynx roam around the European alps. You may even see a bear…

Yep. You can embrace the snow in Austria in summer.

Snowball Fighting

Snowball fighting in summer? Go on, you know you want to!

Take a series of three cable cars up to the top the Hintertux Glacier in Zillertal and you will find yourself rewarded with a snowscape perfect for all kinds of winter activities. Sure, the traditionalists go skiing and snowboarding. 

But the real traditionalists keep things simple and play with the kids. Or like they’re kids. And start a snowball fight….

Sipping Hot chocolate amid cold snow

Another great tradition that you’ll find around the ski resorts of the Austrian alps in the summer is the concept of the mountain hut. Typically built from wood, with heart shaped carvings and lacy curtains, they also typically serve up hearty fare high up on the slopes. 

Many don’t accept credit cards, though, so it’s a good idea to carry cash with you so that you can partake of this warm hospitality. 

Go skiing and snowboarding. Yes, in summertime…

OK, so not everywhere has enough snow for this in summer. But the Hintertux Glacier in Zillertal does. Even in the summer. Sunbathe in the morning, ski in the afternoon. All within the Austrian Alps. It’s amazing.

And how about snowbiking?

Just when you think you’ve seen it all, they come up with something else! Snowbiking is subtly different to using a snowmobile and takes up a lot more energy (that’s energy of the rider, not the motor, by the way.)

Check out the information from Moonbikes at moonbikes.com.

Drinking beer on the Nordkette mountains that overlook Innsbruck

Taste local beer

The Austrian beer scene is lively and loved and you’ll find local beverages from Vienna to Innsbruck and beyond. To check out a really hyper local brewery, head to the Huber Brewery in St Johann in Tirol. You can also enjoy a bite to eat on the terrace with great views of the surrounding mountainside. 

Go ziplining

Austria has plenty of high ropes courses. But for little kids, head on a treasure hunt of adventure playgrounds around near the Wilder Kaiser. Mountains. Our daughter, who was five at the time, absolutely loved the zip line and the treehouse at Moor and More. The views and the hike keep it enjoyable for adults. 

Step inside the whimsical world of Kristallwelten

Visit Crystal World

Head just outside of Innsbruck to meet a giant lying in the grass, a waterfall cascading from his mouth… and a soothing soundtrack filling the air. Nothing about a visit to the Swarovski Crystal World or Kristallwelten is predictable, except, perhaps for the gift shop at the end. 

Far from being purely an exercise in flogging merchandise, the Kristallwelten takes you on a journey or art and bedazzlement, through entire rooms of crystals, shimmering lights and even real snow. See Gandhi come to life, watch Elton John fly through the sky and gaze at Simon Biles in her crystal costumes. 

Outside, kids can play on a carousel, run through a real maze and clamber among a play tower that’s five storeys tall. 

My words here don’t do the place justice. I’ll be back to write more. And in the meantime, just make sure you go!

Take a scenic drive

A visit to the Austrian Alps in summer virtually guarantees a scenic drive. Even in bad weather, the views are ridiculously, embarrassingly good. It’s slightly unfair when you come to think about it. What about all those other boring, flat countries? You know, the ones where you see nothing but the intersection and road signs for mile after mile?

Not so in Austria in summertime. Look out for jagged peaks, soaring birds of prey, breathless puffs of cloud, glacial water and the calm green sweep of the forest. 

Take the Schnitzel Challenge

OK, so I may have made this up. But do you accept the challenge?!

Everyone’s heard of the Wiener Schnitzel from Vienna (rumoured to actually hail from Milan, but that’s a story for a different day…)

But did you know there’s an Innsbruck Schnitzel with ham and cheese inside? And a Styrian Schnitzel with pumpkin seeds on the outside. 

Celebrate culture, tradition, travel and gastronomy in one go by trying to find out if there are any more. And then come back here and let me know, please. 

Follow the Sound of Music

OK, first things first. Avoid mentioning the Sound of Music to people in Austria. While it’s not entirely offensive, most people are more than a little tired of the constant references to musical nuns and so it’s a topic best glossed over. (Although, if you want some tangible history, head to the Sound of Music World in Salzburg, where the real Trapps lived.)

No, I mean literally follow the sound of music. Austria has a rich musical heritage (Mozart anyone?) and you will find outdoor concerts galore during summer in Austria. 

Since research from Oxford University shows that classical music, from Mozart in particular, calms listeners and lowers blood pressure, why not get listening in his home nation?

Three things to surprise you about Austria in Summer

I fell in love with Austria a long time ago. But she still manages to surprise me. Here are three things to surprise you about Austria in summer that I picked up on my very last trip…

• Schnapps can taste quite nice if you know where to go
• A place called Crystal World is an art extravaganza.
• You can hike through a real underground ice palace.

Why a summertime trip to the Austrian Alps with Kids makes sense 

• Wholesome outdoor activities adjusted for little legs
• Frequent wooden playgrounds and hiking trails
• Friendly welcome
• Lots of chances to splash in the water
• Travel is easy! It’s easy to drive, park, order food, change babies, cross roads, the lot. 
• Castles and suits of armour galore!
• Educational and tasty places to visit, from cheese tasting to non alcoholic schnapps and plenty of sausages.
• Lots of farm animals to see and, in some places, pet.

 A Sample One Week Itinerary through Austria

• Three nights in St Johann in Tirol
• Two nights in Innsbruck
• Two nights in Zillertal

More details to follow. Subscribe here to hear all about it. 

The river view of Innsbruck, one of Austria’s fascinating cities…

Summer in Austria’s Cities

Vienna has some of the grandest imperial buildings you’ll find on earth as part of the Habsburg legacy. Explore events from the 20th century with this guide to dark tourism in Vienna.

UNESCO World Heritage City of Design and Austria’s culinary capital. You will find so many unique things to do in Graz.

Famous for Mozart, the Sound of Music and Christmas Markets, summer in Salzburg reveals a different pretty side.

Innsbruck is one of Austria’s most popular summer cities for its easy escape to the mountains. Just 20 minutes by cable car and you can be hiking alone. Just check out these fantastic things to do in Innsbruck here.

Linz sits on the Danube with a blend of traditional old Austrian vibes and modern art centres and installations.

Bookmark this article on Austria in summer for later…

FAQS about travel in Austria in summer

Any more questions about visiting Austria in the summer? Ask away! Here are the most frequently asked questions…

When are the Austrian summer holidays?

The Austrian school summer holidays typically start in early July and run through to mid August. As you’d expect, family destinations are busier and prices higher during this time.

When is summer in Austria?

Summer occurs between May and September, with temperatures hovering in the high twenties and low thirties overall. 

How hot is Austria in summer?

In short, hot. Temperatures reach 30 degrees pretty early in the season, although you’ll find it cooler on the mountain peaks. While you won’t find stifling heat here, you may find enough to cramp your style if you’re used to striding around the UK, for example. It’s much sunnier than that. 

Is it worth travelling to Austria in summertime?

Yes! I’ve done it many times, with friends, family and on my own and would highly, highly recommend it. The weather is typically warm although you may find showers. But it’s not overbearingly hot like Andalusia or the Middle East. 

Plus, you have so many different things to do and ways to relax in Austria in the summer. Go on. Give it a go!

Where are the best places to stay in the Austrian Alps in summer?

Austria has a wealth of high quality, family run hotels that are rich in history and atmosphere. Allow me to highlight the two beautiful places we stayed at most recently in the mountains:

• Sentido alpenhotel Kaiserfels – Located on the outskirts of St Johann in Tirol, this hotel offers easy parking, a huge spa and pool area and great views of the nearby mountains. The extensive buffet allows access to traditional Austrian food as well as more international options for any picky eaters. 
• Seetal Alpin Family Resort – I fell head over heels in love with this family hotel. It’s the first hotel aimed at families that actually seemed to consider both parents and children. Children receive bathrobes in their own size, for example, as well as personal name cards and a visit from a cheery mouse called Cheesy. There’s an indoor and outdoor adventure playground, Kids Club, a petting zoo and swimming pool open to children. For adults, the place is beautiful in a grown up way, with pianists and harpists over dinner, great food and babysitting services largely included. There’s also an extensive child-free spa with saunas, massage services and steam rooms.

What’s the average Austrian summer temperature?

Vienna typically hovers around the high twenties in summer, while mountain tops are slightly cooler. It’s warmer than Britain, if that’s any help!

How easy is it to drive in Austria?

Austria is a very easy country to drive around. Roads are excellent, signposts immaculate and there’s usually plenty of parking. On the mountain roads, you will have to take in a few hairpin turns but these are usually pretty forgiving and not that tight. Driving in Vienna, as in any big city, can be a little more challenging and frustrating but it’s not too bad. Driving in the countryside is an absolute pleasure!

Do you need a car in Austria in the summer?

Austrian cities are well connected by clean and efficient public transport and a car can be a hindrance in the cities. That said, it is much easier to get around the Austrian Alps if you have your own set of wheels. You can also visit more off the beaten track places (and carry more cheese…)

What are the covid restrictions about Austria these days?

Ah, only a fool would try to predict in advance! When I last travelled in May 2022, you needed proof of vaccination or a negative test. Young children were exempt. This is clearly a summary of the proper advice and you should always check the latest government advice before you book and then again before you travel. 

More Travel Articles about Austria

• Why summer in Austria is good for you
• Unique things to do in Graz, Austria’s city of design
• The 10 traditional Austrian dishes everyone should try at least once
• How to enjoy summer in Lech in Austria
• The secrets of the Cheese Road in Austria
• The best places to eat in Graz, Austria’s culinary capital
• Buschenschank Steirmark. Tricky words, great concept
• Dark tourism in Vienna: is it ethical
• Why St Johann in Tirol is Your Secret Tonic this Summer
• The best things to do in Innsbruck (plus an itinerary
• How to plan the perfect one day Graz itinerary
• The 15 most beautiful lakes in Austria

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• Travel Tips

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.

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• Active & Outdoors

An Active Summer in Austria

Summer in motion: From long-distance hiking to white-water kayaking, being active is an essential part of the Austrian "Lebensgefühl".

Every muscle hurts on the last metres to the summit, but here you are enjoying the spectacular mountain panorama, before taking a dip in the nearby lake to cool off on the hottest day of the year. Or how about an action-packed paddle on an alpine stream, followed by some trail running or gravel biking, moving your whole body from head to toe?

Whatever your choice, there's no better way to recharge afterwards than with some schnitzel and kaiserschmarren at a traditional hut before falling asleep in your comfy bed, your legs tired but the smile on your face radiant - that's how we enjoy and embrace an active summer in Austria. Or, in other words, that's our lifestyle, our "Lebensgefühl".

Walking and Hiking in Austria

Cycling and biking in austria, lakes and nature in austria, editor's picks, rafting: from tahitian beach boy to austrian river guide.

Tapu was born and raised in Tahiti but left his island paradise to become a rafting guide in Austria's Styria. Here's his story!

Sailing - from Austria to the “Ocean Race”

Two brothers discovered their love for sailing on the lakes of Austria, where a big dream was born: To participate in the "Ocean Race", the most challenging sailing regatta in the world!

Hiking & Climbing: How to Find the Right Path

Planning is key to a safe ascent - find out more about signposting and difficulty levels in Austria's mountains.

Why We Are Drawn to the Mountains

The mountains fascinate us – not least because of their unpredictability. Join us on a hike that led from Innsbruck through part of the Karwendel mountain range and ended quite differently than planned.

For Water-Enthusiasts

Where to go sailing in austria.

As a land-locked country, Austria might not be the most obvious choice for a sailing holiday. While it does not have a direct access to the ocean, Austria has some nice alternatives to offer: A surprisingly high density of huge, beautiful lakes, providing perfect sailing conditions for beginners and pros alike!

Austria's Most Beautiful Lakes

Austria's most beautiful bathing lakes to spend a summer day swimming, paddling - or just lazing around all day.

Rafting in Austria

Austria is famously known for its culture, imperial architecture, rich history, excellent food, and breathtaking lakes and mountains landscapes. In the Alpine regions, the country shows off its rougher side, providing some pretty cool action on the most beautiful rivers, gushing down countless gorges and ravines.

Why time on the Water is in Carinthia’s DNA

Canoe, kayak and bike along the water: Carinthia's Drau Paddel Path allows outdoor enthusiasts to experience nature first-hand.

From Wreck Diving to White-Water Swimming: 5 Unexpected Aquatic Adventures in Austria

In Austria's rivers and lakes, you can dive down to see a submarine made of concrete, or glide across the water’s surface while practicing yoga.

Diving in Austria's Most Beautiful Lakes

Descend into weightlessness! Glide into a magical underwater world with a flick of your fins and discover its secrets.

Both Feet on the Ground

22 very different ways to hike by the water.

Get ready for variety: from birdwatching experiences by small salt lakes to water walks through the city or tours for the toughest with adrenaline guaranteed. 

Climbing in Austria

Whether it's the adrenaline kick on a via ferrata at lofty heights or an action day at a high ropes course with the family for you - experience an unforgettable climbing adventure in Austria.

Mountain Hiking Tips for Beginners

With our mountain hiking tips for beginners, you’ll make a smooth transition from walker to mountain hiker.

Hiking with Kids in Austria

Hiking is a great and memorable family holiday activity. Need suggestions? Check out our favourite kid-friendly trails.

Trailrunning: A Wonderful Family Experience

You might have heard about trailrunning already? At first we immediately thought of distance running and exhausting routes, suitable just for experienced sports enthusiasts. Jurgen Groenwals gave it a try - and tells us otherwise.

My First Long-Distance Hike: Walking the Isel Trail in 5 Days

A long-distance hike for people who never thought they'd walk a multi-day trail

Mountains, Goals, Change: At the Summit, we are all Equals

Mountaineering is just like everyday life – success is found outside of the comfort zone. But what does it feel like to climb one of Austria's mountain peaks for the first time? Student Henning Früh took up the challenge together with East Tirolean mountain guide Magdalena Habernig.

Keep the Pedals Moving

Gravel biking: adventures between mountains and roads.

Whether it's a multi-day adventure or an exciting exploration tour: With a trendy gravel bike, road cyclists can cover longer distances off paved roads. Clear the way for the most beautiful places in Austria!

In Velo Veritas: Enjoy the Ride on a Retro Road Bike

If you like cycling, flea markets, and a good glass of wine, read on! "In Velo Veritas" is the classic tour that draws hundreds of cyclists and their retro road bikes to the Weinviertel every June.

Whether a challenging mountain bike climb, a leisurely ride along the Danube, or a sightseeing pedal through a medieval city, Austria has got you covered.

E-Biking in Austria: Top 6 Regions

E-bikes make cycling up those uphill tracks a lot easier. Our selection of Austria's top 6 e-bike regions are sure to give your cycling holiday a boost.

Gravel Austria – The gravel bike route through Austria

Experience varied descents on gravel and tarmac along fantastic mountain and lake landscapes on the Gravel Route through Austria.

What Are You In the Mood For?

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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: 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 a few 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: 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

W ith six universities and one of Europe’s best preserved old town areas, there are so many places to visit in Graz, Austria. It is the second largest and cheapest city in Austria. Graz has so much to satiate the soul of a traveller. 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.

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: 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: 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

Image Credit: gsibergerin by Pixabay

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: Hostels In Austria

14. Tyrol – Heaven In The Alps

Image Credit: kordi vahle by Pixabay

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

Image Credit: ignazmerz by Pixabay

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 Monchhof, Schloss Esterhazy, Sonnentherme Lutzmannsburg Places To Stay : Falkensteiner Balance Resort Stegersbach, Country Lake Villa Best Restaurants : 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.

Suggested Read: Festivals In Europe

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: 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 could 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: Villas In Austria

24. National Park Danube-Auen – Into The Wild

Recognized in 1996, National Park Danube-Auen is home to a variety of species of animals and plants. The park is sprawling across an area of 93 square kilometres 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. This comes under the top 10 places to visit in Austria. Explore the scenic landscapes and lush greenery 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. Gesause National Park – A Rock Climber’s Paradise

Are you a rock climber? If yes, then you would like to visit the Gesause National Park 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: Gesause-Lodge, Landgasthof Buchner, JUFA Hotel Schloss Rothelstein/Admont Best Restaurants: Genuss Region Gesause Edelwild Best Time To Visit: June to September How To Reach: The park offers soft mobility options. Check the official website for additional information.

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

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

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

27. Seewinkel National Park – For Birdwatching

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

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

Suggested Read: Austria’s Most Beautiful Spots

28. St Anton am Arlberg – Best Ski Village

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

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

29. Vienna Woods – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

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

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

Suggested Read: Best Honeymoon Destinations In Europe In Winter

30. Krems – Explore Nature And History

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

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

31. Linz – Creative Capital

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

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

Suggested Read: Austria In May

32. Schonbrunn Palace – Heritage Of Austria

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

Ideal for: History, Architecture Places to Visit: Schonbrunn Palace Places to Stay: Austria Trend Parkhotel Schönbrunn Wien, Aparthotel Adagio Vienna City Best Restaurants: Der Gockel, Kutscher G’woelb, Joseph II. – Das Schloss-Restaurant Schonbrunn 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 Places To Visit: Vienna State Opera Places to Stay: The Amauris Vienna – Relais & Châteaux, Mar Suite Apartments – Center Best Restaurants: You Vienna, Bristol Lounge, Bristol Bar, Hard Rock Cafe – Vienna 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 Places To Visit: Eisriesenwelt Cave Places to Stay: Berghotel Garni Burgblick, Hotel Adler Best Restaurants: Restaurant Obauer, Berggasthof Zaismann, Gasthaus zum Eisenwerk Best Time To Visit: September to October, April to May How To Reach: There are many buses to go to the cave

Further Read: Salzburg Hotels

Though we’ve included the best 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!

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here . Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Austria

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

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

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

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

Which are the best places to visit in Austria?

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

Which is the most beautiful city in Austria?

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

What is the best way to travel around in Austria?

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

What is a typical Austrian breakfast?

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

Which is the best time to visit Austria?

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

What should I buy in Austria?

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

Is Vienna easy to walk around?

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

When does it snow in Austria?

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

What is Austria famous for?

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

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12 Best Places to Visit in Austria

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

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

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

12. Bad Gastein

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

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

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

11. Worthersee

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Zillertal Alps

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

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

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

8. Grossglockner Alpine Road

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

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

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

7. St Anton am Arlberg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Zell am See

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

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

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

4. Innsbruck

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

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

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

3. Salzkammergut

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

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

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

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

2. Salzburg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Reader interactions.

July 21, 2018 at 2:01 am

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

October 26, 2017 at 12:17 am

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

October 20, 2017 at 4:46 am

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

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Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria

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

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

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

This fusion of fast-paced modern living and serene historical architecture makes Vienna a truly spectacular city. I defy you not to fall in love with it—it’s a stunning gem!

My favorite highlights…

• Catching a performance at the Golden Hall or in one of their beautiful historic churches for an exquisite and cultured experience.
• Visiting the world-famous Schönbrunn Palace and the stunning Rathaus Vienna/City Hall.
• Attending the world-famous Vienna Opera Ball at Wiener Staatsoper (the State Opera House).
• Going for a Viennese coffee, a strudel, and people-watching in the gorgeous historic centre.
• Sipping cocktails while enjoying beautiful views at the 25Hours Hotel rooftop bar, The Dachboden Loft (in the 7th District, the city’s hipster district).

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2. Hallstatt

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

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

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

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

My highlights…

• Taking a stroll along the lakefront, filled with such picturesque scenery, it looked like it was straight out of a storybook.
• Exploring the extraordinary ice caves and seeing frozen waterfalls and incredible ice formations.
• Check out the salt mine, considered the oldest in the world. Children will also love it there as they have a thrilling miners’ slide!
• Hiring a traditional wooden salt boat and exploring the lake!
• Going to Five Fingers Viewpoint, which offers one of the most spectacular views in the Alps!
• Seeing the colorful half-timbered houses in the central Market Square and having dinner at a beautiful open-air restaurant terrace around the lake.

3. Salzburg 

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

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

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

My favourite highlights…

• Going on a Sound of Music Tour , which was hours of kitsch fun!
• Wandering around the beautiful Old Town, one of the best-preserved city centres north of the Alps, was brimming with stunning baroque architecture.
• Hearing famous Mozart pieces performed inside the historic fortress castle at the impressive Mirabell Palace and Gardens. 
• Wandering down Getreidgasse, a charming Medieval shopping street filled with interesting independent shops.
• Going for a Mozart Dinner Concert at the Baroque Hall of St Peter`s Abbey.
• Experiencing Salzburg’s Beer Halls, my favourite was Augustiner Bräustübl Tavern, which had a garden attached to a monk’s brewery.

4. Innsbruck

I thought this was a stunning Alpine gem! The snow-topped mountains and tall, colourful buildings make it a postcard-worthy alpine destination. It has several well-managed ski resorts and excellent winter sports facilities, perfect for those who love to hit the slopes.

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

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

• Hanging out in the gorgeous Old Town, filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. 
• Visiting Tyrol Panorama, which had a museum and incredible views of the surrounding areas.
• Taking a cable car to Nordkette Mountain Range and seeing stunning Alpine scenery. 
• Swimming in Lake Achensee, Tirol’s largest lake.

5. Vorarlberg

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

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

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

I love that the views you can enjoy as you hike along its routes are as beautiful and diverse as the mountains! 

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

There are many great things to do in Graz. This city has a vibrant arts centre that complements its Renaissance courtyards and baroque palaces. Thanks to the large student population (around 50,000 students spread across four University campuses), the nightlife in Graz is booming! 

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

7. Zell am See

When you visit Zell am See, I can tell you you will see some fantastic sights! The first one likely to capture your attention is the beautiful bluer-than-blue lake, Zeller See! 

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

More than a million visitors worldwide visit Zell am See every year in search of new sites and adventures. When the sky’s blue is reflected in such a clear lake, it’s a genuinely gorgeous sight!

8. Mostviertel

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

This combination of landscapes contributes to the region’s endless charm and boasts Europe’s largest continuous area of pear orchards. Its chocolate-box scenery makes it a wonder for adults and children alike and offers museums, monuments, family activities, and the chance to ski.

I would suggest trying Hotel Kartause Gaming or Zur Linde for hotel options in this area.

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

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

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

Within beautiful Tirol lies the historic old town of Innsbruck, which I mentioned above. This incredible region is worth exploring! 

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

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

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

My must-do highlights

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

11. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

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

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

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

12. Nationalpark Gesäuse

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

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

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

13. Saalbach-Hinterglemm

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

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

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

14. St. Gilgen

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

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

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

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

15. Hochosterwitz Castle

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

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

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

16. Krems an der Donau

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

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

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

17. Kitzbuhel

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

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

18. Thayatal National Park

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

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

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

19. Dürnstein

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

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

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

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

20. Faaker See 

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

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

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

Emma-Clair Ni Clearaigh - writer and photographer With itchy feet, an inquisitive nature and an ardent wanderlust, Emma Clair has always been a traveller at heart. Hailing from the Emerald Isle she calls a small coastal town near Dublin home, but has lived in a few countries including Saigon, Vietnam where she resided for over a year, now she balances travel and travel writing with teaching and a passion for vintage interior design. She counts supping on Bloody Marys on a rooftop in Manhattan, downing Singapore slings at the Raffles Hotel, daring a paraglide on the Grand Cayman, spending an exotic Christmas in Malaysia and exploring the Angkor Wat, Cambodia as her all time favourite travel moments. Although, she’ll always have a special place in her heart for the city where she makes her annual pilgrimages – Paris, her true city of lights. Find Emma-Clair on Instagram or Facebook . Hotel Reviewing Experience - Asked by tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including the Catalonia Tourist Board ,  Visit Finland, Visit Zurich and Atout France. Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vorarlberg we have a separate post on that area 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope you have a great time!

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

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

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

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The Ultimate Guide To Summer In Innsbruck

This post contains product affiliate links. These are mainly on items/hotels/tours that I personally endorse & love. I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase, but at no extra cost to you.

Innsbruck isn’t all about the skiing & winter sports. From mountain biking to hiking, here’s how to spend an amazing summer in Innsbruck, Austria!

I’m starting to think that Austria only produces pretty towns and cities. Every one I’ve been to has been absolutely stunning.

After already visiting Graz , Salzburg and Zell am See , it’s impossible to pick a favourite, but Innsbruck in Tirol is another incredibly beautiful place, especially in summer.

Nestled at the bottom of a valley and surrounded by the mountains, many people consider Innsbruck just a winter destination with world-class ski resorts. However, when it comes to summer in Innsbruck there is so much to see and do here.

Austria in summer is all about the outdoor activities, so in Innsbruck expect to do things like mountain biking and hiking. The views at the top of Nordkette Mountains really are something else.

So, for those of you looking at what to do in Innsbruck in summer, this is my travel guide for you!

To help plan your trip here, make sure you check out my guide to the best boutique hotels in Innsbruck . Some of these places are so dreamy and perfect for that extra special holiday.

Summer in Innsbruck, Tirol

I was initially in Innsbruck filming a web series with Eddie the Eagle (if you remember him!) We really wanted to showcase some of the best things to do in the city.

The whole challenge was to beat the clock. Eddie and I had to get from Berginsel Ski Jump to the very top of the Nordkettenbahnen in just 30 minutes. Impossible, right? Watch our video and find out for yourself!

As you can see from our video, we had such a glorious summer in Innsbruck. Even though we were only in Innsbruck for a few days, I wanted to see all the city had to offer.

The beautiful thing about Innsbruck is the close proximity of the mountains. You can literally get from the city up to the top of the mountains in less than half an hour. 20 minutes if you’re really counting.

Okay, so we *may* have taken a little longer ourselves, but that might’ve been down to the fact that I wanted to go on a scenic horse and carriage ride through the city. If it wasn’t for that, we would’ve been at the top of those mountains in a flash.

Still, we shot in some of the best locations in the city, and in-between filming I managed to tick off some of the best things to do in Innsbruck.

So, if our video has inspired you to see a little more of the city, then this is what to do in Innsbruck!

Summer weather in Innsbruck

The summer weather in Inssbruck is just gorgeous. When I was here, it was hot and sunny every single day. And I’m talking about proper shorts and t-shirt weather here.

These are the average temperatures of you:

• May – 13 °C (high of 19 °C )
• June – 17 °C (high of 22 °C )
• July – 19 °C (high of 24 °C )
• August – 19 °C (high of 24 °C )
• September – 16 °C (high of 21 °C )

As you can see, visiting Innsbruck around June, July and August is the perfect time. September is a lot quieter so I’d definitely considering coming here then too.

Things to do in Innsbruck in summer

Stand in the shadows of the bergisel ski jump.

The Bergisel Ski Jump is one of the most famous landmarks in Innsbruck. How anyone can throw themselves off this thing I have no idea. Eddie assured me it was one of the most exhilarating things you can do. Obviously I’ll have to take his word for that as I can’t see myself trying this anytime soon.

Anyway, competitions were first held at the Bergisel Ski Jump in the 1920s. Since then, it has been redeveloped and expanded to a capacity of 28,000 people.

If you want to see how crazy people like Eddie are, standing at the top really gives you an insight into what it must be like to be a ski jumper.

The Tower stands 47 meters tall and provides some spectacular views from the top. This isn’t one of the faint hearted though!

Tickets to the top cost £9 and you get there via a funicular (don’t worry, you don’t have to climb those stairs).

Catch the cable car to the very top of the Nordkette Mountains

Directly opposite Bergisel Ski Jump are the Nordkette Mountains. No trip to Innsbruck would be complete without catching the cable car to the top.

Standing at over 3,000 metres, the Innsbruck cable car takes around 20 minutes to get to the top and provides you with amazing views of Innsbruck.

There are several stops along the way if you’d like to get out and explore the different stations. Also, there’s a lovely little restaurant at the very top serving traditional Austrian food.

The views from up here might just be my favourite in all of Austria – they really are something else. There’s a reason why this is one of the best things to do in Innsbruck, especially in the summer.

Tickets cost £35 per person for a round-trip and I really recommend this activity!

Have a coffee at the Golden Roof in the heart of Old Town (Altstadt)

One of the stranger Innsbruck attractions is the Golden Roof (or Goldenes Dachl in German.)

As the name suggests, this is a roof made out of gold, and it is found right in the heart of the Old Town.

Constructed in the 1500s for Emperor Maximillian I, the striking roof is made up of 2,738 gilded copper tiles. All the lower balconies bear coats of arms relating to the Emperor’s historical territories.

One of the best things to do at the Golden Roof is to grab a coffee or a beer from one of the restaurants in the main square and watch the world go by – all with the Golden Roof in the background.

For me, summer in Innsbruck is all about taking it easy and enjoying the sunshine. Well, this is such a stunning spot in the city to do it from.

Climb the 133 steps to the top of the Town Tower (Stadtturm)

Whenever I’m somewhere new, I always find the tallest building in the city for those cityscape views. Well, in Innsbruck this is at the Town Tower (Stradtturm).

Built in 1450, people having been climbing to the tower for views of Innsbruck for over 500 years. The only thing that’s changed here is the view of the city being built around the Old Town.

Even though the 133 steps to the top will leave you panting, the views are incredible. I love how the red roofs are framed by the river and the mountains – picture postcard perfect this scene.

Take some photos of the colourful houses by the river

When it comes to what to do in Innsbruck, I always recommend going on a little self-guided photo walk of the city.

Like with a lot of places around Austria, Innsbruck is really bright and colourful. However, when the seasons change and the sun comes out then everything becomes so much more beautiful.

Down by the river there are some colourful houses painted in oranges, greens and blues. For me, this was one of my favourite photo spots in the city. If you head down to the river I found this spot by the bridge. This is where you can find a local market during the summer too (more on that in a bit).

Go for a cycle around Innsbruck

One of the best ways of getting around Innsbruck in summer is to hire some bikes.

Innsbruck (and Austria in general) are really into their road cycling. In 2018 they held the UCI Road World Championships and there are lots of cycling routes up into the mountains.

While I was in Innsbruck a few people we’re talking about the race already and the city was absolutely buzzing. Often there are cycling events going on so make sure you check what’s going on in the city before you arrive.

Feel like 1 million dollars at Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Even though Swarovski World is just outside of the city (it’ll take you about 45 minutes to get there), it is definitely one of the best things to do in Innsbruck.

Yes, they sell lots of diamonds and crystals there. No, you don’t need to buy all the diamonds and crystals there. As you can see, it is an amazing place for photos though. Tickets cost £15 per person and this place is fun for the whole family. Also, the art & architecture there is spot on. Personally, I would say this is one of the best things to do in Innsbruck in summer – again, I just love the architecture here.

If you’d like to learn more about Swarovski World then check out Wanderlust Chloe’s guide .

Taste some samples at a local market

Innsbruck summer means markets! Now I love eating my way through a city so obviously I had to explore a few of the local markets.

Again, down by the river you’ll find a local farmers market. I genuinely spent about an hour wandering from stall to stall sampling some local cheese and cold meats. I didn’t realise how good Austrian cheese was – so good I just had to pick up a wedge that barely made it home with me. If you can, buy some local cheese – you won’t regret it I promise you.

Take on some of the best downhill cycling in Europe

If you’re an adrenaline junkie then Innsbruck has some incredible downhill cycling. When all the snow has melted from the mountains then this is a great summer activity.

The Bike Park Innsbruck in Mutters and Götzens welcomes mountain bikers with four trails and a biking centre with practice area. You can hire a bike and protective gear for the day and tackle the trails yourself. Or, alternatively, you can find a local guide and go on a bit of the tour of the mountains.

Heading to the top of the cable car really is one of the top places to visit in Innsbruck, and cycling downhill afterwards is an even better adventure!

Pay a visit to S chloss Ambras (Ambras Castle)

Schloss Ambras (Ambras Castle) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Innsbruck. Perched on a rock 100 metres above the valley floor, Amrbas Castle dates all the way back to the 10th century. Yes, it really dates back that far.

On a tour around Ambras Castle you’ll see the the sheer wealth and opulence of the place. There are objects made of ivory and coral dotted all over, there’s suits of rare tournament armor, and there’s over 200 paintings in the Habsburg portrait gallery.

Ambras Castle is a great place to add to your Innsbruck itinerary.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

Luxury: relais&châteaux spa-hotel jagdhof , neustift im stubaital.

If you don’t mind going a bit further afield, this resort in Neustift im Stubaital has it all. Panoramic views of the scenic Tyrolean mountains, not to mention the Stubai Glacier.

Things are fancy inside too. There’s a real traditional vibe here, plus more than 20 amenities: a 3,000 m² spa and an award-winning restaurant.

Mid-range: Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz , Innenstadt

Altstadthotel Weißes Kreuz has been standing since 1464, though it had a full refresh in 2020. That’s a whole lot of history, including a visit from Mozart in 1769.

Located in the city’s bustling downtown, this is one of my favourite Innsbruck hotels for a beer. By that I mean – if you visit, don’t forget to check out the impressive sixth floor bar.

Budget: Hotel Huberhof , Rum

I love a city break, but sometimes it’s nice to get away from the hustle and bustle, right?

Hotel Huberhof is ideal for that. It’s around a 15 minute drive from Innsbruck, so you really get that nice, country air. It’s got a pool, two tennis courts, and views of the Patscherkofel mountain. What’s not to like?

Innsbruck packing list

As you can imagine, I travel a lot. It comes with the territory of being a travel blogger! That being said, there are some things that I now can’t travel without. If you’re planning your Innsbruck summer itinerary, I’d really recommend taking these items with you:

• Sunglasses: Mens | Womens – These are an absolute must as soon as you step off the plane, holiday mode very firmly on!
• Cool felt hat – I always love travelling with a hat these days, especially during summer when the sun’s out.
• Rain jacket: Mens | Womens – Sorry guys, but it’s always a good idea to travel with a pac-a-mac or rain jacket that packs down small. Fingers crossed you won’t need to use it.
• Bum bag – Very easy and simple for wandering around a city and it means you can leave a big bag at the hotel room.
• Sleep mask – 100% take this with me on every trip.
• Ear plugs – Even if you’re staying in a 5* hotel, you might need ear plugs.

• Water bottle – I am a water bottle convert and I barely leave the house without one now. This is a great water bottle with a built in straw – it’s surprisingly handy!
• Waterproof phone carrier – Another game changer. I always use this when I’m on the beach to protect my phone from sand or when I’m kayaking to protect it from water.
• Portable charger – Does anyone travel without these now? This one is my favourite – just make sure you charge it before you get on the plane!
• Jabra earbuds – After trying so many different types of earbuds, these are now my go-to ones. Great for wandering around a city.
• Multi-adapter plug – This is the one item you’re most likely to forget.

This post was in association with Visit Austria and Visit Innsbruck promoting some of the best things to do in Austria during the summer – it’s not all about the winter sports here! As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you planning a holiday to Innsbruck? If you have any questions at all then let me know in the comments below!

Like this blog post? Then make sure you Pin it for the future!

About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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4 thoughts on “The Ultimate Guide To Summer In Innsbruck”

Planning to be in Innsbruck next month (July). Thank you for your so nice and interesting article.

You’re very welcome Sagi! I hope you have an amazing time there!

Going to visit Innsbruck next week as I don’t know much about it, so I was looking for a blog to know the best things to there – thank you so much for this information!

No worries Jagjit! I hope you have an amazing time in Innsbruck as it’s such a beautiful city to explore!

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• The Perfect 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

With its outstanding natural beauty and sophisticated cities that fuse old with new, Austria is one of the most enchanting countries to visit in Europe. As there are so many pristine lakes, rivers, and mountain ranges to explore in between the urban areas, the best way to experience the place has to be with an epic Austrian road trip.

Renting a car and hitting the road in Austria gives you so much freedom to pick and choose which places you get to visit. No matter where you drive, you will find yourself surrounded by incredible landscapes the whole time, without even needing to leave the car.

If you’re not sure where to begin, then my 10 day Austria road trip itinerary is here to help! This guide contains all the practical information you need as well as the most impressive destinations that let you experience a bit of everything that Austria is known for.

* Disclosure: This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link. *

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Table of Contents

Useful Info for Your Austria Road Trip

How to get to austria .

This Austria road trip itinerary is designed to start in either Vienna or Innsbruck. My guide starts in the east, in Vienna, and concludes in the west, at Innsbruck. However, you can flip it and do it in reverse if that suits you better!

Both Vienna and Innsbruck are served by an international airport. As the Austrian capital and largest city, Vienna International Airport (Flughafen Wien) connects nonstop to the vast majority of European cities. You can also find direct flights from the US, Canada, the Middle East, and some Asian cities.

As a smaller airport, there are fewer direct flights to Innsbruck Airport (Flughafen Innsbruck). However, you can fly nonstop from other Austrian airports as well as from a select number of European destinations including Germany, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.

Best time to visit Austria 

Austria experiences the four distinct seasons as per the Northern Hemisphere and other Central European nations, so the best time to visit Austria really depends on the type of experience you are after. The climate and temperatures differ depending on the altitude, so during the course of this road trip in Austria, you should expect the weather to fluctuate somewhat. 

The peak travel season is the summer months of July and August when the temperatures are at their hottest, reaching typically 27-29°C (80-84°F) or sometimes even higher. Meanwhile, winter brings snowfall to the mountains and sees the ski resorts open up for the season.

In terms of the best time to visit Austria as part of a road trip, the shoulder seasons of late spring and autumn are the most pleasant overall. Temperatures are at their most comfortable, you will have less competition for accommodation and parking space, and tours and hotels will be a fraction cheaper. And to be honest, when you’re up in the mountains you will likely still see dustings of snow on the peaks.

Car rental in Austria

No matter which airport you fly to (Vienna or Innsbruck), there are car rental agencies located at both of the airports and in the cities themselves.

I recommend booking your rental well in advance to get the best deals. Prices can be pretty inflated during the summer months so the earlier you book, the better deals you can snag.

Driving tips for Austria 

Driving in Austria is a doddle, providing that you follow the rules and understand the local road rules. Naturally, you must wear a seatbelt at all times, not drive while under the influence, or when using your mobile phone. Here are a few more driving tips for your Austria road trip itinerary: 

• During the summer season and warmer months, Austrian roads are a joy to drive. They are paved and well maintained. However, between December and March, snow and ice is likely at higher altitudes so you will need to ensure that your rental is fitted with winter tires and that you have snow chains in the boot. 
• To drive in Austria, you must possess a full driving license from your home country as well as an International Driver’s Permit (IDP). You will need to arrange this documentation prior to arriving in the country to start your Austria road trip. If your driving license was issued by one of the member states of the European Economic Area, you will not need the IDP as your license is valid in Austria.
• Traffic rules and regulations are comparable to other European countries. In general, the speed limit is 100 km/h (62 mph) on Bundesstraße (freeways) and S Roads (expressways) and 130 km/h (81 mph) on Autobahn (highways). When driving through residential areas and inner cities, the speed limit is usually 50 km/h (31 mph), but you should stay alert for signs.
• In order to drive on the Austrian Autobahn and S Roads, your rental must display a vignette toll sticker. If your rental car doesn’t have one, you must purchase a vignette before hitting the highways. For this Austria road trip itinerary, purchasing a 10-day vignette is the best option which costs €9.90. You can buy the vignette at any of the petrol stations and then stick it to your windshield.
• Driving with your headlights on is optional during daylight hours and compulsory at night in Austria. 
• ÖAMTC and ARBÖ are the two major breakdown assistance services in Austria and both operate 24/7. The numbers are 120 and 123, respectively. As a non-member, you will be liable to pay a fee if you use this service. 
• This itinerary for Austria includes a generous amount of hiking so it’s really important to have some sturdy hiking boots in your rental that you can throw on whenever you reach the trails. You should also have a significant stash of water ready for the hikes. 

Overview of Your 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary

Breakdown of your 10 days in austria.

This is your itinerary at a glance, with details about where you will need to book accommodation for each of the 10 nights. Remember, you can do the route in reverse if it suits your travel plans better.

• Day 1-2: Two full days in Vienna (overnight in Vienna)
• Day 3: Grüner See, Admont Abbey Library, arriving in Hallstatt (overnight in Hallstatt)
• Day 4: Full day in Hallstatt (overnight in Hallstatt)
• Day 5: 5 Fingers Viewing Platform (Dachstein), Gosauseen, arriving in Salzburg (overnight in Salzburg)
• Day 6: Full day in Salzburg (overnight in Salzburg)
• Day 7: Gollinger Wasserfall, Bluntauseen, Hohenwerfen Castle, arriving in Zell am See (overnight in Zell am See)
• Day 8: Stausee Mooserboden, Sigmund-Thun Klamm, Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun, Mitterberghof Jausenstation (overnight in Zell am See)
• Day 9: Krimml Waterfalls, arriving in Mayrhofen (overnight in Mayrhofen)
• Day 10: Olpererhütte, Innsbruck (overnight in Innsbruck)

Map for your Austria road trip

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Austria road trip itinerary. I marked the different parts of the road trip with different colors so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will automatically save this map to your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1-2: Vienna

Number one on your Austria itinerary is Vienna, the capital and largest city in the country, located in the northeast. The oldest part of the city and its most central district is the Innere Stadt, which is contained by a ring road.

Within this neighborhood, you will find the majority of the key attractions and majestic architecture, including Baroque palaces and gardens, museums, and concert halls. No wonder that Vienna is considered one of the most beautiful cities in Europe !

Vienna is synonymous with classical music and was the home of musical masters including Mozart and Beethoven so you will find numerous references and recitals in town.

Two days in Vienna is plenty of time to explore the major landmarks of this elegant city. You will not need a car for these two days as it’s easier to get around the city via public transport and walking so you can pick up your rental car after your two days in Vienna are over.

Where to stay in Vienna

If this is your first time visiting Vienna then I recommend staying in the Innere Stadt. Hotels are more expensive but deals can always be found. Alternatively, you can choose accommodation in one of the outlying neighborhoods and connect to the Old Town easily by metro.

Trendy Wieden has affordable accommodation which is convenient for seeing the sights featured on this road trip in Austria. Landstrasse, to the east of the Innere Stadt, is another alternative for budget hotels. As you will not pick up your rental until the third day, you don’t need to worry about finding a hotel with parking.

Below you can find my suggestions for the best places to stay in Vienna for 2 nights.

LUXURY – Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna

Built as a hotel for the World Exhibition in Vienna in 1873, the luxurious Palais Hansen Kempinski Vienna can be found right on the famous Ringstraße boulevard in the heart of the city. The hotel features 2 restaurants, a bar, and an exclusive spa and fitness center.

MID-RANGE – Hilton Vienna Plaza

Located on the historic Ringstraße in the Innere Stand, the city center of Vienna, Hilton Vienna Plaza combines modern and Art Déco design elements. The elegantly decorated rooms come with marble bathrooms and offer amazing views of the city from their large windows.

BUDGET – K+K Palais Hotel

Centrally located in the quiet part of Vienna’s city center, K+K Palais Hotel is a total steal. Boasting fully air-conditioned rooms and state-of-the-art amenities, the property is in close proximity to many major sights, such as the St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Best things to do in Vienna 

Explore the innere stadt.

Vienna’s old town is brimming with museums, monuments, and landmarks that you can explore on foot. Slip into your sneakers and spend a day touring the key sights.

Look out for the ornate Anker Clock, the commanding Rathaus (city hall), the manicured Volksgarten, and the Wiener Minoritenkirche which features a mosaic of Da Vinci’s Last Supper.

Hundertwasserhaus

Perhaps the most unusual building you’ll see during your Austria road trip, the Hundertwasserhaus was conceived by the artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser and architect Joseph Krawina in 1985.

The concept was to create a space in harmony with nature and highlights include the grass on the roof and the trees that grow freely through the floors. Thanks to its vibrant colors, it’s definitely one of the best Vienna Instagram spots !

Classical concert

In a city famed for its lineage of classic music, you might want to book tickets to catch a show for yourself. There are various concert halls scattered throughout the Innere Stadt.

Once you’ve confirmed the dates for your itinerary for Austria, check out what’s on at the Wiener Musikverein, Wiener Konzerthaus, and the Vienna State Opera House . The main season runs from September to June.

Schönbrunn Palace

This 18th-century palace and gardens are located southwest of the Innere Stadt. Once the summer residence of the Habsburg royal family, this colossal complex is now the star attraction in Vienna. Queues are always long so I recommend booking a skip-the-line tour of Schönbrunn Palace to save time.

Hofburg Palace

Another palace for your list, this one was built during the 13th century and has been restored and expanded in the following centuries. Originally the winter home of the Austro-Hungarian Empire leaders, the property is now the office of the Austrian president.

Vergnügungspark

One of the most fun things to do in Vienna at night is to visit the Prater amusement park. The star attraction is the giant Ferris wheel which has been rotating since 1897 but there are plenty of other rides to satisfy all thrill-seekers.

Where to eat in Vienna

• Honu Tiki Bowls : Colorful cuisine in an equally colorful setting! You can select one of the signature bowls or customize your own. There are plenty of options to satisfy vegans, carnivores and seafood lovers.
• Das LOFT : Dine high above the rooftops of Vienna at this upscale restaurant that serves contemporary Viennese dishes, quality wines, and delectable cocktails. They’re also open for breakfast.
• Café Anzengruber : Located in the foodie haven that is Wieden, the 4th District, this is one of the best places for authentic schnitzel, goulash, and other traditional Austrian plates you must try during your 10 days in Austria.
• Restaurant Ofenloch : Another option for classic Austrian food this time in the heart of the Innere Stadt. This historic venue has an irresistible ambiance and an expansive menu. 

Day 3: Vienna to Hallstatt

Pick up your rental and ready your playlist, your Austria road trip officially begins today as you journey into the mountainous state of Styria! The total drive time to today’s final destination, Hallstatt, is around 5 hours and the distance is 340 km (211 miles).

But you will stop along the way before reaching your hotel in Hallstatt so allow extra time to visit the destinations listed below.

Once in Hallstatt, you will need to book 2 nights of accommodation. Refer to the next day if you want to learn about my recommendations for where to stay in Hallstatt!

Grüner See

Driving time: 2 hours and 15 minutes (175 km/110 miles) from Vienna to Grüner See

Leaving the city behind, Grüner See in an unbelievably beautiful pool of water formed by the snowmelt of the surrounding karst mountains. Translating into ‘Green Lake’, the water is an ethereal emerald hue.

There is a huge parking lot at the entrance of the lake but since it’s a popular place among locals and tourists alike, it’s better to go early to secure a parking spot. Parking is €6 for a full day (there is no hourly parking option) and you can only pay with cash.

It takes around 20 minutes to reach the lake from the parking lot on a gravel road, the trail is completely flat and very easy. You can walk around the lake in its entirety in around 30 minutes to appreciate the viewpoints and take photos.

There is a small restaurant next to the lake if you need lunch or you can prepare a picnic to enjoy by the water. Note that swimming is not permitted in the lake due to conservation efforts.

Admont Abbey Library

Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (87 km/54 miles) from Grüner See to Admont Abbey Library

The next scenic stop on today’s journey is a sensational library situated inside Admont Abbey. Stepping into the library feels as if you would enter the library from the Beauty and the Beast !

The archive represents the largest monastic library in the world and the works span architecture, frescoes, sculptures, manuscripts, and printed tomes. Constructed by the architect Josef Hueber, the library hall was completed in 1776.

It registers 70 meters (230 feet) in length, 13 meters (43 feet) in height, and features seven ceiling frescoes that represent the Enlightenment. These were composed by the painter Bartolomeo Altomonte who was 80 years old at the time!

70,000 volumes are stored in the hall while the abbey in total contains around 200,000 books and manuscripts, with some dating as far back as the 8th century AD.

There’s a huge parking lot right next to the Abbey where you can leave your car while you explore the inside.

A ticket to Admont Abbey Library costs €16.50 and it also includes entrance to a bunch of museums such as the Museum of Fine Arts or the Natural History Museum. I’m not a museum kind of girl myself but I really enjoyed wandering around these museums so definitely give them a try!

Depending on how many museums you want to visit, you can easily spend 2-3 hours inside. If you happen to visit at 11 am or 2 pm, you can also take part in a guided tour of the library which lasts for 40 minutes (it’s already included in your ticket price).

Please note that the library only operates on a limited opening time. As of March 2023, according to the official website it’s closed and will be open from April to May between 10.30 am to 3.30 pm and it’s completely closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. From June to October it will be open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. In November you can count on the same opening hours as in April and May. From the second half of December the library is going to be closed.

The official website doesn’t get updated that much so if you want to go for sure, it’s worth calling them in advance about the current opening hours. We almost missed our chance to visit this masterpiece because of the incorrect opening hours on the website so if you want to avoid the struggle, make a call!

Outside of the library, it’s also worth taking a stroll around the beautiful gardens and popping into the Abbey itself (it’s free to visit). Admont itself is situated on the banks of the Enns River right in the middle of the Ennstal Alps so if you have more time, it’s also worth taking a wander around this picturesque town to savor the incredible scenery. 

Arriving in Hallstatt

Driving time: 1 hour and 30 minutes (78 km/48 miles) from Admont Abbey Library to Hallstatt

After wandering around Admont and taking in the scenic views, pop back into your car and drive all the way to Hallstatt. It takes around 1.5 hours to reach this fairytale town from Admont. In case you’re not staying directly in Hallstatt, you might need to calculate different driving times depending on where you’ll stay.

Day 4: Full day in Hallstatt 

Hallstatt is a quaint lakeside village located in the mountainous region of Salzkammergut. It is known for its salt mining heritage and historic center which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hallstatt’s setting on the shore of Hallstätter See (Hallstatt Lake) means that you have arresting views in all directions which really do look like something you’d see on a postcard. This is easily one of the prettiest places you’ll stay during your Austria road trip.

Cars are not allowed in Hallstatt Zentrum. So, you will need to leave your car at the parking lot suggested by your hotel while you carry on with your one day in Hallstatt . 

Where to stay in Hallstatt 

As Halsttatt is a small village, accommodation options are limited and it’s essential to book far in advance. However, as you will have your own car you can also consider staying further out of the village in either Obertraun or one of the other nearby hamlets. These are my suggestions for where to stay in Hallstatt for your two nights.

LUXURY – Hallstatt Hideaway

This adults-only resort is located right on the waterfront and comprises a deluxe portfolio of suites that offer lake views. Modern interiors feature a rustic twist and the most decadent options come with additional features ranging from private patios to private spa pools.

MID-RANGE – Heritage Hotel Hallstatt

All rooms and suites at this 4-star hotel provide lake views and are equipped with a private bathroom, coffee maker, and homely touches. The accommodation spans three buildings and there is also a restaurant and sauna on site.

BUDGET – Gasthof Bergfried

This centrally located guest house features compact rooms with en suite bathrooms with the option to upgrade to a balcony suite. The property offers a shared relaxation area with a spa and sauna.

Alternatively, if you have a car, you might want to stay a little further out of town in one of the surrounding hamlets. One of the best options is Obertraun, from where you can reach Hallstatt within 10 minutes by car or you can also take advantage of the ferry.

We stayed at  Haus Salzkammergut  on our second visit to Hallstatt and absolutely loved everything about the hotel! Great location, amazing views from the balcony, lovely owners, cute doggie, and delicious breakfast. I can only recommend this place!

In case the hotel is full or you’re looking for something else, you can  check all the accommodation options in Obertraun here .

Best things to do in Hallstatt 

Hallstatt zentrum.

The center of Hallstatt is totally walkable and you can spend the morning exploring the main sites. Roam the Marktplatz Hallstatt with your camera, take in sweeping views from the top of Evangelisches Pfarramt and visit the ossuary (bone cemetery) at Michaelskapelle. You can also walk down to Small Island and head north of the village to appreciate the scenic viewpoints of Hallstatt.

Ride the ferry

Whether you stay in Hallstatt Zentrum or Obertraun‎, it is worth hopping on the ferry that connects the two towns in order to experience a different perspective of the river. The crossing takes around 25 minutes.

Hallstatt Skywalk

Ride the Salzbergbahn funicular up to this observation deck that rises 350 meters (1,148 feet) above the village and provides sensational views of the alpine landscape. You can also walk up but it is very steep and takes around 1.5 hours. The compromise is that you ride the funicular up and walk back down!

Salzbergwerk Hallstatt

Take a tour of this 7,000 year old salt mine which includes exploring on foot and by traditional mine train. The mine is only accessible via the 90 minutes guided tour which you can book online in advance to secure your spot. Access to the attraction is also via the funicular so you can plan these two activities for the same time.

Hallstatt Waterfall

A shorter waterfall option: you can walk to the Hallstatt Waterfall from Marktplatz in around 20 minutes. It gushes out from the vegetation and is a great way to warm up for a day of sightseeing or cool down in the spray during summer. 

Waldbachstrub Waterfall Hike

It takes around 40 minutes to hike to the Waldbachstrub Waterfall from Parkplatz Echerntal or just over 1 hour from Hallstatt Zentrum. This is an easy trail with minimal incline and is a great way to experience the local nature and warm up for some more challenging hikes later in the Austria itinerary.

Gletschergarten (Glacier Garden) Hike

The Glacier Garden is another wonderful hike that you can do from Hallstatt or Parkplatz Echerntal. This assemblage of rocks and streams formed during the last Ice Age as the local glacier receded from the gorge. It takes 2-3 hours to cover the entire complex and it isn’t too demanding.

Where to eat in Hallstatt

• Restaurant Rudolfsturm : Located within a medieval tower, this place is worth it for the views alone. The menu is typically Austrian and they also do a great apple strudel. 
• Restaurant Am See : This lakeside eatery offers charming views and the menu is rich with local dishes and fresh fish dishes. 
• Pizzeria Kegelbahn : Situated across the lake in Obertraun, this Italian restaurant serves good quality pizza and pasta alongside soups, salads, and Austrian fare. 

Day 5: Hallstatt to Salzburg 

Today you’ll need to check out of your hotel in Hallstatt as it’s time to head to your next destination: Salzburg! You’re going to have two stops along the way so your driving time will be around 2 hours including both stops.

I recommend starting the day as early as you can as you’ll have some exciting plans for the day!

5 Fingers Viewing Platform (Dachstein)

Driving time: 10 minutes (7 km/4.5 miles) from Hallstatt to Dachstein Krippenstein

Your first stop today is going to be the slopes of the Dachstein massif, a dramatic glacial mountain range that rises 2,700 meters (8,858 feet) in the region south of Hallstatt. Once you reach the summit, you can explore the 5 Fingers lookout, an ice cave, and 360° views.

You can park at the cable car, Dachstein Krippenstein, and then hop on the gondola up the mountain to experience incredible views as you soar. The ticket price depends on which attractions you’re planning to visit, you can check the different options here .

For reference, if you only want to visit the 5 Fingers platform, you’ll need to purchase a Panorama ticket that costs €35.30, while the all-inclusive ticket costs €52.20 which includes a visit to the caves as well.

In a remarkable feat of engineering, the 5 Fingers observation platform protrudes 400 meters (1,312 feet) above the ground below and is shaped in the form of a hand with 5 ‘fingers’ stretching out to grasp the cool mountain air.

Once you leave the cable car at Krippenstein (section 2), you’ll need to hike around 25-30 minutes to get to the viewing platform.

The hike is really easy and well-marked so it shouldn’t be a challenge even if you’re not in the best shape. And the views along the way are out of this world!

Within the same area as the lookout, you will also find the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave. Entering this huge cavern, you will encounter stalactites of all different colors before you catch sight of the massive wedge of ice filling the chasm.

Guided tours of the ice cave last 50 minutes and require a 15-minute walk from the cable car station, Schönbergalm (section 1). If you do want to explore the cave, you will need to dress warmly as the average temperature inside is -2 °C (26.6 °F), even during summer. Make sure you pack layers for your 10 days in Austria!

You can find another cave at Schönbergalm (section 1) called Mammut Cave. It’s known as one of the largest karst caves in the world, hence the name. It takes around 15-20 minutes to reach the cave from the cable car station and as with the Giant Ice Cave, a guided tour lasts for 50 minutes as well.

Depending on how much time you have, you can visit either of the caves or both, or you can just go for the 5 Fingers platform for the panorama – it’s completely up to you!

Gosauseen 

Driving time: 30 minutes (27 km/17 miles) from Dachstein Krippenstein to Gosauseen

Gosauseen is a cluster of three beautiful lakes located in the Alps of Upper Austria. You can drive to the Gosausee Parking lot and park your car here while you explore, or you can park near the Gosaukammbahn cable car station and ride up to the lakes this way instead if you prefer.

There are a series of hiking trails that connect the lakes and give you the chance to explore phenomenal nature.

The shortest option is to just walk around the first of the three lakes, Vorderer Gosausee, which takes around 1-1.5 hours in total. The more challenging options take you to the middle lake, Gosaulacke, as well as the third and final lake, Hinterer Gosausee.

To visit all three bodies of water, you will need to allow around 5 hours. As the drive time today is around 3 hours, this is feasible if you depart from Hallstatt as early as possible and skip the caves at Dachstein.

If you don’t want to fully drain your batteries, my recommendation is to visit only the first lake and rest a little bit after you arrive in Salzburg.

Arriving in Salzburg

Driving time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (80 km/50 miles) from Gosauseen to Salzburg

After exploring the lakes, you’ll need to drive around 1 hour to get to Salzburg, which will be the next destination on your Austria road trip itinerary. Once in the city, you’ll need to stay for 2 nights to be able to spend one full day in Salzburg.

If you need recommendations of where to stay in Salzburg, check the next section for my tips!

Day 6: Full day in Salzburg

Salzburg presses its way up against the border with Germany in Western Austria and affords some of the finest views of the Eastern Alps. The Salzach River flows through the center of the city, with the Salzburg Alstadt (Old Town) resting on the left bank.

As the birthplace of the legendary composer, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, much of the culture of the city revolves around his lineage.

Fans will no doubt want to visit both Mozart’s Birthplace and Mozart’s Residence and catch a recital while in town. But Salzburg is also abundant in museums, galleries, stately residences, and gardens, restaurants, and shops, and it’s really not a place to skip off your Austria road trip.

You can easily spend one day in Salzburg exploring the delights of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and strolling along the riverside. 

Where to stay in Salzburg

As with Vienna, it makes sense to book accommodation as centrally as your budget allows. Hotels in Salzburg Altstadt are priced higher and you should expect to pay around €15 per day for parking so do factor that into your plans and budget.

If you stay further out in areas such as Itzling, Maxglan or Taxham then you will find that accommodation rates drop and you can transfer into the city center efficiently via bus.

These are my suggestions for where to stay in Salzburg for your two nights.

LUXURY – Small Luxury Hotel Goldgasse

All suites at this deluxe hotel are artistically presented and some feature a private terrace. The property is situated in Salzburg Altstadt within walking distance to all the major landmarks and has a wonderful restaurant on the premises. 

MID-RANGE – Hotel Wolf

Colorful rooms are comfortably designed with eclectic furnishings and immaculate bathrooms. The hotel is positioned within a building that dates back to 1429 and is located in the heart of Salzburg Altstadt. A fantastic breakfast is included in the rate. 

BUDGET – Hotel-Flair

Rooms at this budget hotel in Salzburg are clean with plenty of space and each comes with a private bathroom. The property is conveniently located for walking to and from Salzburg Central Station and is a 30-minute walk into Altstadt Salzburg. 

Best things to do in Salzburg

Salzburg alstadt.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Salzburg Alstadt is where you will find the most historic buildings and streets in the city, as well as museums, public squares, shops, and cafes.

You can call in at the shops on Getreidegasse, stroll down Sigmund-Haffner-Gasse, tour Mozart’s Birthplace, or dip into one of the Salzburg Museum institutions. 

Mirabell Palace & Gardens

This resplendent palace dates back to 1606 when the prince-archbishop Wolf Dietrich commissioned and gifted the residence to his mistress, Salome Alt. You can explore the sprawling gardens and peer into the public rooms of the estate.

If you are a fan of The Sound of Music then this place will be familiar to you already!

Kapuzinerkloster Viewpoint

This viewpoint is accessible via a climb up 260 steps to the Aussicht Kapuzinerberg. Your reward is the scenic views across the city towards Hohensalzburg Castle from the deck and they are worth the effort, I’d say they’re the best in town. 

Hohensalzburg Castle

Ride the funicular up the mountain to get up close to the defining emblem of Salzburg, and one of Austria’s most iconic sights.

Hohensalzburg Castle, the largest fully preserved castle in Central Europe, is home to a portfolio of museums that you can take your pick from. However, it’s the views of the city and the looming alps that more than justify making the journey. 

Where to eat in Salzburg

• Imlauer SkyBar : Located on the sixth floor of the Imlauer Hotel, this swanky restaurant is the perfect place to start your day in Salzburg with brunch or wrap up a perfect day of sightseeing with a decadent dinner!
• Café Bazar : After tackling the viewpoint climb, you can recoup your energy at this historic cafe that looks across at Salzburg Altstadt. Considered the home of artists and poets, the menu spans lunchtime specials, sweet treats, and moreish specialty coffees. 
• S’Kloane Brauhaus : Slip inside this 400 year old building and you will be greeted with the scents of traditional Austrian delicacies. The friendly staff are on hand to guide you through the menu to find your perfect dish!
• Lazarte : It might feel odd to dine on Latin American food during your Austria itinerary, but Lazarte delivers the real deal. Add a dash of spice to your trip and experience the flavors of Mexico, Peru, and beyond at this top rated restaurant. 

Day 7: Salzburg to Zell am See 

The distance from Salzburg to Zell am See via the specified attractions is 120 km (75 miles) and the drive time is approximately 2 hours. Tonight you will need to book accommodation in the little town of Zell am See-Kaprun for 2 nights.

Gollinger Waterfall 

Driving time: 35 minutes (28 km/17 miles) from Salzburg to Gollinger Waterfall

Head to Parkplatz Gollinger Wasserfall where you can leave your car and walk to this remarkable 75 meter (246 feet) waterfall which forms two tiers as it crashes down the cliff from the forest.

Between the months of May and October, you must pay €5 to visit the waterfalls on top of the parking fee which is also €5. You’ll need to drive around 35 minutes to get to the waterfall from Salzburg which makes it one of the best day trips from Salzburg.

There are different viewpoints along the waterfall and you can even hike to the top which I 100% recommend! It takes around 10-15 minutes to reach the lower viewpoint while it will take you approximately 35-40 minutes if you want to go all the way to the top.

The waterfall is super strong so be prepared to get a little bit wet! If you decide to go up, you’ll find a bridge that crosses over the water so that you can get very close to the water spray. It’s recommended to wear sneakers or hiking boots as the trail gets wet and slippery due to the mist.

Driving time: 7 minutes (3.5 km/2 miles) from Gollinger Waterfall to Parkplatz Bluntautal

Another day, another magical lake nestled between mountains and forestry to add to your Austrian road trip! Bluntausee changes color depending on the time of day you visit and what the weather is doing, so it might be emerald or sapphire tinted.

You can follow the hiking trail around the perimeter in less than one hour however swimming in the water is forbidden.

Since it’s only 3.5 km (2 miles) from Gollinger Waterfall, you can easily walk from one place to the other but if you’d rather drive, you can leave your car at Parkplatz Bluntautal which is the closest parking lot to Bluntausee. From the parking lot you’ll need to hike for around 30 minutes to reach the lake.

The trail is completely flat so the hike itself is really easy and it goes through a beautiful forest and crosses a crystal clear river. It’s absolutely worth visiting Bluntausee just for the scenery alone!

Hohenwerfen Castle

Driving time: 20 minutes (18 km/11 miles) from Parkplatz Bluntautal to Hohenwerfen Castle

In a country that is overflowing with beautiful castles, this one really takes the biscuit and is an essential sight during your 10 days in Austria! The hilltop fortress of Hohenwerfen Castle has stood in this spot for over 900 years and from the complex, you can look down at the Salzach River and across at the surrounding mountains and woodland. 

Access to the castle is via funicular or a short but steep 25-minute hike. Once at the fortress, you can observe a demonstration of the resident birds of prey in addition to exploring the museums.

There are always a number of temporary exhibitions which change throughout the year and seasonal events are hosted on the grounds. Entrance to the castle costs €10.40 and if you want to take advantage of the elevator, you can buy a combo ticket for €14.40.

Zell am See-Kaprun

Driving time: 50 minutes (57 km/35 miles) from Hohenwerfen Castle to Zell am See-Kaprun

Today’s final destination is Zell am See-Kaprun, a small town that sits on the shore of Lake Zell (Zeller See). The town is the gateway to the ski resorts and slopes of the Schmittenhöhe mountain that looms over the town and is accessible via cable car if you wish to take in the views.

You can go for a walk or hire some bicycles and cycle along the esplanade that begins at the southwest of the lake and skirts the circumference of the water.

Down at the south corner, you also have the option to rent kayaks or stand up paddleboard and float your way across the lake. There are a number of pretty parks dotted along the lakeside where you can enjoy a picnic and the town has a good spread of restaurants and hotels.

Where to stay in Zell am See

Zell am See-Kaprun is small but it does have a substantial number of hotels and guesthouses. As with Hallstatt, I encourage you to book accommodation way ahead of your Austria road trip and look further out of town if needs be.

Here are my recommendations for where to stay in Zell am See-Kaprun for two nights.

LUXURY – Salzburgerhof Wellness-, Golf- und Genießerhotel

This luxurious, family-run spa, golf, and pleasure hotel offers unique holiday experiences in a beautiful location in Zell am See. Surrounded by a splendid natural landscape, the Salzburgerhof combines 5-star comfort with 4 lilies in the Relax Guide for its spa quality and the culinary pleasures of 3 toques by Gault Millau.

MID-RANGE – Hotel Neue Post

Only a 3-minute walk away from the Zeller Bergbahn cable car, which provides access to the Schmittenhöhe skiing and hiking area, Hotel Neue Post enjoys an exceptional location in the heart of the old town of Zell am See.

BUDGET – Hotel Glasererhaus

Just a 5-minute walk from the shore of Lake Zell in the heart of Zell am See, Hotel Glasererhaus offers individually furnished rooms, a wellness area, and free WiFi. Most rooms additionally come with a balcony featuring a seating area.

Day 8: Highlights of the Kaprun Valley 

Today you will explore the attractions of the Kaprun Valley before returning to your Zell am See accommodation for a second evening.

Stausee Mooserboden

Driving time: 20 minutes (16.5 km/10 miles) from Zell am See-Kaprun to Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus

Stausee Mooseroden is one of two high-altitude reservoirs and dams in the Kaprun Valley that resemble fjords. At 2,000 meters (6,562 feet) above sea level, the water is a startling shade of turquoise that contrasts against the circling cliffs and snow-capped peaks.

The dam wall at the Moserboden is 107 meters (351 feet) high and almost 500 meters (1,640 feet) long.

Unfortunately, you can’t drive all the way up to Stausee Mooserboden, so you’ll need to leave your car at Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus (it’s free) and use the shuttle buses from there.

The parking house has 11 floors and if there’s enough free space, it’s worth driving all the way to the top because that’s the direction you’ll need to go in order to find the ticket office and the shuttle buses. If you park on the lower levels, you’ll need to climb up the stairs to get to the top of the parking lot.

Once you purchase your ticket, you’ll need to get on the shuttle bus which will take you to a very cool open-air lift. This is the largest open lift in Europe and it will take you up on the 431 meters (1,414 feet) incline within minutes.

After that, you’ll need to board another shuttle bus which will take you all the way to the reservoir. The whole process takes around 45 minutes and a return ticket costs €28 per person.

During your exploration, you can follow short hiking trails to get a full perspective on this dramatic landscape from the surrounding viewpoints. If you’re up for a challenge, you can also try some of the via ferrata routes but for that, you’ll need to have the proper gear.

If you want something easier, you can just hike up to the upper viewpoint which takes 10-15 minutes and it’s fairly easy. The route is quite narrow and steep so it’s best to wear sturdy shoes and watch out for your steps.

Sigmund-Thun Klamm

Driving time: 6 minutes (4.5 km/3 miles) from Kaprun Stauseen Parkhaus to Sigmund-Thun Klamm

Once you’re reunited with your rental you can drive 5 minutes along the road to the next attraction on your Austrian road trip itinerary.

Sigmund-Thun Klamm is a stunning ravine with an excellent wooden track that lets you walk past the water that thunders through the narrow chasm before culminating in a massive waterfall that falls like a veil.

You’ll find a couple of parking lots near Sigmund-Thun Klamm, the closest one is right at the crossing of Kesselfallstrasse and Klammweg. Once you park your car, you have to follow Klammweg and around 5 minutes later you’ll come across the ticket office which marks the entrance of Sigmund-Thun Klamm (an entrance ticket costs €6.50).

It takes around 20-30 minutes to go through the gorge and it’s important to note that the wooden track is one way only, you will have to take another road to get back to your car.

At the end of the trail you will reach another gorgeous lake called Klammsee that you can then complete a lap around. The lake is quite small and the trail around the lake is only 1.8 km (1.1 miles) so you can walk around the whole lake in 30 minutes.

All in all, you should factor around 1.5-2 hours to fully explore Sigmund-Thun Klamm and Klammsee together. There are few places where you can experience such an extraordinary spectacle of nature and it’s worth taking the time to complete the full route.

Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun

Driving time: 6 minutes (4 km/2.5 miles) from Sigmund-Thun Klamm to Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun

The next item on today’s agenda isn’t one for the fainthearted but it’s great fun! The Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun is essentially a rollercoaster combined with a toboggan.

Once comfortable in your two-seater sled, you will charge down the track reaching speeds of up to 40 km/h (25 mph), and screaming is fully acceptable.

The ride is open year-round and you can opt for a single ride for €14 or pay for 5 for €59.50.

Dinner at Mitterberghof Jausenstation

Driving time: 25 minutes (15 km/9.5 miles) from Alpine Coaster Maisiflitzer Kaprun to Mitterberghof Jausenstation, then 15 minutes (9 km/5.5 miles) back to Zell am See-Kaprun

After a fairly strenuous and hair-raising eighth day of your Austria road trip, you might just want to flop into your hotel bed. However, if you can summon the energy to drive a little bit more, this awesome restaurant is worth the 15-minute drive, especially on a balmy evening.

From the outdoor dining terrace, you can drink up views across the Kaprun Valley and Zeller See. Although, on overcast days you might be seated above the clouds!

You’ll find wholesome Austrian fare on the menu as well as an excellent variety of desserts. The restaurant is actually part of a family-run inn and you could even choose to stay here rather than in Zell am See if you prefer.

In case you’re not hungry or you have other dinner plans, it’s still worth driving up to the restaurant for the view alone.

Day 9: Zell am See to Mayrhofen 

The journey time from Zell am See to Mayrhofen via the below attractions is just shy of 2 hours, and the distance covered is 100 km (62 miles). You will need to book one night of accommodation in Mayrhofen for the penultimate evening of your Austria road trip itinerary.

Krimml Waterfalls 

Driving time: 55 minutes (55 km/34 miles) from Zell am See-Kaprun to Krimml Waterfalls

If you were impressed by the ravine yesterday then just wait until you clap your eyes on what is said to be the highest and most powerful waterfall in Europe!

You’ll find plenty of parking lots near the Krimml Waterfalls, the closest one is P4 so if you find free space there, go for it! There is a small tunnel going under the main road right next to the P4 parking lot, you’ll need to follow this road to get to the ticket office.

An entrance ticket costs €10.20 and if you want to visit the nearby Water Worlds Krimml museum as well, you can purchase a combo ticket for €13.90.

The Krimml waterfalls tumble over several layers and you can decide how far you want to hike. The first viewpoint is accessible via a 15-minute walk from the parking and this alone is impressive.

However, if you want to walk all the way to the summit of the falls, it will take 2-2.5 hours to complete the 380 meters (1,250 feet) hiking trail, and then you’ll need to climb back down so factor in a 5-hour round trip. It does get steep and slippery due to the spray, so excellent hiking boots and a reasonable level of fitness are required.

Driving time: 55 minutes (44 km/27 miles) from Krimml Waterfalls to Mayrhofen

After an intense morning, you can look forward to checking into your hotel in Mayrhofen and taking a leisurely afternoon. It’s a further hour to reach Mayrhofen from the waterfalls if you take Gerlos Strasse.

Since this is a private road, you’ll need to pay €11 per car for the road usage. Sometimes this road gets closed due to weather circumstances so it’s worth checking it in Google Maps in advance before you go in that direction.

If the road is closed or you don’t want to pay, you can take a detour and use another road to get to Mayrhofen, but it will take you 2 hour and 15 minutes this way.

Situated in the Zillertal Valley, in the province of Tyrol, Mayrhofen is another feeder town for the local ski resorts. You can ride the gondolas from the town up to the resorts where you’ll find loads of hiking trails if you have the energy, but the views are lovely on their own.

The Pfarrkirche Mayrhofen is a cute church and you can take a stroll along the river in town.

If you need a restaurant recommendation for dinner, check out Goldkind . They’re the number one restaurant in Mayrhofen according to TripAdvisor and let me tell you, they’re not wrong! The restaurant caters to everyone from vegans and vegetarians to meat lovers.

All the meals we tasted there were super delicious and the prices were reasonable as well (nothing too fancy or expensive). Give them a try, you won’t regret it!

Where to stay in Mayrhofen

As a lively ski town, Mayrhofen features a good spread of accommodation options. The following places are all centrally located and provide free on-site parking which is perfect for your one night in Mayrhofen.

LUXURY – Huber’s Boutique Hotel

This stylish hotel comes with all the luxury trimmings including a pool, spa, and scrumptious breakfast. The top-tier suites feature idyllic freestanding bathtubs and spacious balconies.

MID-RANGE – Gut Stiluppe

This beautiful lodge offers a spread of rooms and suites, including ‘Romantic’ and ‘Royal’ themed choices. There is a pool, sauna, spa, and garden terrace where you can unwind.

BUDGET – Brugger ApartHotel

Rooms at this inviting hotel are decorated in traditional Tyrolean style with wooden furnishings and feature a balcony, a private bathroom, and a seating area. Breakfast is included and the price is happily affordable.

Day 10: Mayrhofen to Innsbruck 

Can you believe that it’s the final day of your Austrian road trip already? Today your final destination will be Innsbruck but first you’re going to take a little detour to reach one of the most epic viewpoints in Austria.

Once you get to Innsbruck, you’ll need to book a hotel for one night.

Olpererhütte 

Driving time: 40 minutes (25 km/15.5 miles) from Mayrhofen to Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee (Olpererhütte)

First up on the agenda today is a demanding hike up to Olpererhütte, a mountain refuge that sits 2,388 meters (1,273 feet) above sea level.

Olpererhütte is a 30-minute drive southwest of Mayrhofen. There is a parking lot marked as Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee where you can leave your car as you tackle the Olpererhütte trailhead which starts a few minutes walk from the parking area.

This is another occasion where hiking boots are essential as the trail is steep and strewn with rocks and even some streams that trickle down the mountain which you’ll have to wade through.

The hike up will take between 2-2.5 hours and then you’ll need to make your way down carefully as well so you can factor in 4-5 hours for the whole hike. This is by far the most challenging hike on your Austria road trip itinerary but trust me, it’s so worth it for the views!

Once you reach the summit you are rewarded with breathtaking views of the landscape. You can appreciate the scenery from the Panoramabrücke Olpererhütte, which is a suspension bridge that overlooks the valley and turquoise Schlegeisspeicher down below. And of course, you can get a much-needed drink and snack at the hut.

If you do not fancy the hike then you can enjoy a more relaxing walk around the shore of Schlegeisspeicher, or even head straight to Innsbruck and spend longer there.

Ps: Before you think I’m crazy, I just wanted to let you know that I obviously did not hike up to Olpererhütte in a skirt! I was wearing proper hiking shoes with leggings and a top and I just changed to this red skirt at the bridge for the photos. Don’t underestimate this hike and please don’t try to complete it in pretty dresses!

Driving time: 1 hour and 40 minutes (92 km/57 miles) from Parkplatz Schlegeis Stausee (Olpererhütte) to Innsbruck

The final destination on your Austria road trip (or first, if you’ve flipped the itinerary) is the colorful city of Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol province. Most of the touristic attractions are situated within the Altstadt (Old Town) and you will find monuments, museums, and restaurants galore here.

Notable sights include the 16th-century palace, the Hofburg, and the Roman-style Triumphpforte which was erected in 1765. You can walk along the River Inn or hire a bicycle while a series of cable cars whisk you away high into the Nordkette mountain range which is situated in the Karwendel Nature Park.

If you completed the whole Olpererhütte hike then you’ll probably feel super tired so I recommend just casually strolling around the Old Town and finding a great restaurant for dinner.

My personal recommendation is Gasthof Goldener Adler, which is allegedly the oldest restaurant in Innsbruck. They have a really nice terrace right in the heart of the historic old town and their menu is full of authentic Austrian delicacies.

Where to stay in Innsbruck

Innsbruck is teeming with budget-friendly and luxury hotels and you can find decent deals in the city or elect to stay further afield if you are keeping your rental for the final night. Here are my top picks for where to stay in Innsbruck.

LUXURY – aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck

Being the tallest hotel in Innsbruck, aDLERS Hotel Innsbruck offers a breathtaking panorama from its stylish rooms. There is also a spa area on the 11th floor and guests can dine at the Panorama Restaurant and Bar on the 12th floor.

MID-RANGE – Faktorei

Sophisticated rooms weave minimalism with a rustic touch and a number are equipped with a balcony. On site you will find a bohemian cafe and a lovely bar where you can toast the end of your trip!

BUDGET – Hotel Garni Römerhof

Combining modern facilities with a traditional style, Hotel Römerhof enjoys a quiet location only 8 km from the center of Innsbruck. Stylish rooms offer amazing views of the surrounding woods and meadows and there is also a spa area on site.

Planning a trip to Austria?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about Austria. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Where to Stay in Vienna: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
• 2 Days in Vienna Itinerary: The Perfect Weekend in Vienna
• 19 Stunning Vienna Instagram Spots You Can’t Miss
• How to Spend One Day in Salzburg, Austria
• One Day in Hallstatt Itinerary: The Perfect Hallstatt Day Trip
• Hotel Review: Das Edelweiss Salzburg Mountain Resort
• Hotel Review: Hotel Post Lermoos, Austria

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8 thoughts on “The Perfect 10 Day Austria Road Trip Itinerary”

Hi, we are planning to visit Austria from 26 Nov- 3rd Dec and kind of follow this itinerary. However, could you please tick-off routes and places to be avoided during this time of the year?

I’ve never been to Austria during that time of year so unfortunately I don’t have any first hand experience to help with.

Some good advice but all of these places can be visited by train without adding to green house gasses. I can only hope that this ridiculous trend of travel bloggers posing in long dresses and skirts is dead soon. Seriously, posing in a flowing dress on a hanging bridge or hiking trail just distracts from your articles. It also clogs up travel spots for the rest of us travelers as we have to wait around while you get the perfect photo. Isn’t this blog to serve other travelers? Help with our trips? You’re doing the opposite. Please. Just stop.

Well, yes, most of these places can be visited with a train but then you’ll need a lot more time and wouldn’t be able to complete this itinerary in 10 days. But if you have more free time, go for it! I’m sorry if the pictures bothered you but at the end of the day, did you find the information on this blog helpful? Did it help you to plan your trip? If yes, you are welcome, if you found it useless, then you can just click away and read another blog. I don’t think that by sharing some pictures I like makes the article unhelpful but again, sorry if you feel that way.

Hi! I have been to Austria a few time and I still learned a lot from this blog. Some I have done before and I totally agree with your suggestions so I trust the many suggestions and ideas that I have not heard of or tried. Thank you for your thorough research and clear, well thought out itinerary. I picked and chose what I liked from it and will definitely use it on my trip in May. Really great job. Glad I came across your page. Thank you. Thank you!

Thank you so much for your lovely comment, it really means a lot and I’m so happy I was able to help you plan your trip. Have fun in Austria in May!

Can You tell me please which time have you visited. Because the flow of waterfalls is insane. To witness the same experience I’m asking your travel month. And yes i love your article so much that everyday i come and read your blogs.

Sure! We’ve been to Austria multiple times but most of these photos were taken on a road trip in the middle of June. Hope that helps!

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11 Reasons To Visit St Anton am Arlberg, Austria, in Summer

Posted on Last updated: July 1, 2023

If you’re a nature lover looking for a summer holiday destination, then you have to add St Anton am Arlberg, in Austria, to your bucket list.  

St Anton is famous worldwide as a winter destination for its incredible ski slopes and fun après-ski, but this Austrian mountain town is equally stunning in summer.

With their green expanses and lush pine forests, the mountains in summer are a natural wonder. The mountains of St Anton have plenty to offer to outdoors fans also in summer.

There are hundreds of trails where you can go hiking and biking, as well as plenty of engaging scheduled activities that you can join with your St Anton summer card.

Enjoying the views while hiking in St Anton, Austria

Cycling past Kartell Lake on the way to Darmstädter Hütte from St Anton

I was recently invited to spend a few days in St Anton, and I honestly loved it. Despite being a skiing fan, I had never spent much time in the mountains in summer, and I now realise just how much I’ve been missing out on!

In this article I have outlined why you should visit St Anton in summer, and everything you need to know to make your trip smoother.

From logistical tips like how to get there and where to stay, to overviews of the most epic St Anton summer activities, here you’ll find everything you need to know.

So without further ado, let’s dive in and discover this unique town in the Austrian Alps in summer!

• 1.1 Where is St Anton am Arlberg
• 1.2 How to get to St Anton
• 1.3 St Anton Summer Card
• 1.4 St Anton am Arlberg summer weather
• 1.5 Where to stay in St Anton
• 2.1 You can go on epic mountain hikes
• 2.2 You can do some awesome mountain biking
• 2.3 You can do yoga with a mountain view
• 2.4 You can take the cable cars to enjoy amazing mountain views
• 2.5 The St Anton Sommer Card includes tons of cool things
• 2.6 You can go for a swim at the Arlberg WellCom pool
• 2.7 You can enjoy the delicious local cuisine
• 2.8 You can golf on the slopes
• 2.9 There is plenty of daylight to discover St Anton
• 2.10 There are less crowds
• 2.11 There are plenty of fun water sports available

Mountain views in St Anton in summer

Practical info about visiting St. Anton in summer

Before we dive into all the amazing things you can do and reasons you should visit St Anton in summer , let’s go over some of the basic information you should know about St Anton.

Where is St Anton am Arlberg

Sankt Anton am Arlberg , often referred to only as St Anton, is located in the Tyrol state of Austria, in the Tyrolean Alps.  

It’s located in a valley with three other villages; Pettneu am Arlberg, Schnann, Flirsch and Strengen, with St Anton being the biggest town in the valley.

Beautiful views over St Anton and the surrounding valley

How to get to St Anton

St Anton am Arlberg is very easy to reach.

There are a number of international airports that aren’t too far away, like Innsbruck (100km, approximately 1-hour drive), Zurich (200km, approximately 2-hour drive) and Munich (200km, approximately 2-hour drive).

There are a number of shuttle transfers from the main airports to St Anton, as well as a variety of taxi services.

St Anton also has a Railjet train station, with seven daily trains from both Vienna and Zurich. Personally, we took the train from Milan in Italy, changed over in Zurich and promptly arrived in St Anton.

Enjoying the views while cycling to Darmstädter Hütte from St Anton

St Anton Summer Card

St Anton offers a really cool service to its summer visitors, called the St Anton Summer Card. This card is given for free to all travellers who check in to a hotel in St Anton, and it allows you to do a wide variety of activities.

Included in the Summer Card you have unlimited use of the public buses between Landeck and St. Christoph am Arlberg, unlimited use of the cable cars for one day, one entrance at the Arlberg WellCom pool, one yoga session, one guided excursion and loads more activities.

There is also a Premium Card that you can pay for, which lasts 3, 5 or 7 days. If you’re planning a longer trip to St Anton, this is ideal as it gives you more flexibility, allowing you to join scheduled activities more than once.

The prices for the Premium Card are:

– 3 days: 55 EUR for adults and 28 EUR for children

– 5 days: 66 EUR for adults and 33 EUR for children

– 7 days: 77 EUR for adults and 38 EUR for children

On your summer card you will find the link to the schedule website, where you can see what’s planned for the days that you’re in St Anton. This is also the same link where you can reserve the activities.

The St Anton Premium Summer Card

St Anton am Arlberg summer weather

Just because you’re in the mountains, don’t expect it to be cold!

During the summer months temperatures range from a minimum of 10°C (usually in evenings), to a maximum of around 22°C. However, it’s not unusual for there to be particularly hot days, where it can go up to almost 30°C.

And trust me when I say, when you find yourself hiking at the top of a mountain, it often feels much hotter! The Alpine sun can be very strong, so make sure to pack sunscreen.

As the weather in the mountains can be quite variable, you should pack in layers, with options to either undress or cover yourself if it becomes hotter or colder than expected.

Enjoying the alpine sunshine in St Anton in summer

Where to stay in St Anton

In St Anton we stayed at Die Arlbergerin, a lovely family-run hotel located just outside the town centre of St Anton. The rooms are spacious, recently renovated and have lovely balcony with mountain views.

They also serve an amazing breakfast buffet, as well as a delicious dinner menu if you reserve the half-board rates. Every night you can expect an abundant salad buffet, and tasty Tyrolean delicacies as your main dish.

The mountain view from our window at Die Arlbergerin in St Anton, Austria

One of the lovely dinners we had at Die Arlbergerin in St Anton, Austria

11 reasons to visit St Anton in summer

Now that we’ve gone over the logistical information about visiting St Anton in summer, let’s dive into all the amazing things you can do in this gorgeous mountain destination.

You can go on epic mountain hikes

If you’ve read my blog before, you know how much I love a good hike. For me, visiting St Anton in summer was like taking a child to a funfair. There are countless trails surrounding St Anton, of varying levels of difficulty.

Whether you’re a keen hiker who wants to conquer a mountain, or a family who just wants to go for a scenic stroll, you’re guaranteed to find a hike that suits you in St Anton.

High above the clouds on our hike to Leutkircher Hütte

Hiking along the mountain ridge to Leutkircher Hütte

There are also a number of themed trails, like the “Mutspuren – Feel the Courage” trail. 

These trails have interactive stations throughout the trail, where you can find fun games for both kids and adults, as well as learning about the history of the region.

While in St Anton, we did one of the most scenic hikes I’ve ever done. We took the two gondolas up to Kapall, at 2,330m, and from there hiked to Leutkircher Hütte, a mountain hut with epic views.

The first section of the trail was 4.1km with minimal elevation change, just 190m up and 250m down. We hiked along the mountain side and on the ridge, enjoying the epic views over the valley and town of St Anton below us.

Enjoying the mountain views during our hike to Leutkircher Hütte

It was especially magical since it was cloudy when we first arrived at the top, and we were looking down at the sea of clouds.

The clouds cleared throughout the hike, gradually revealing more and more of the amazing Tyrolean landscape.

Once we reached Leutkircher Hütte we had a delicious traditional lunch, where we tried hauswurst with kraut and breadkaspressknodel with sweet kraut.

After walking for two hours at the top of a mountain, it was just what we needed!

The hauswurst with kraut we ate at Leutkircher Hütte

From Leutkircher Hütte we then hiked back down directly into town. The trail down was 9.5km, with 1,000m of elevation change.

While the view from the top was undoubtedly stunning, I also loved hiking back down and seeing the landscape change at different altitudes.

As you hike down you will go from the barren mountain side to walking through clusters of Arlberg trees, the small pine trees from which St Anton takes its name, to then eventually through the bigger pine tree forest and then back into town.

We did our hike with Geli, a knowledgeable local guide who told us about all the different flowers, trees and mountains we were seeing, as well as some local history. It was a fantastic experience to say the least.

Hiking back down after our lunch at Leutkircher Hütte

Mountain views on our way down from Leutkircher Hütte

You can do some awesome mountain biking

Besides hiking, another great way to explore the mountains is by bicycle. Especially if you get an e-bike, you will be able to reach peaks and mountain huts that would be too far to walk to or reach with a normal mountain bike.

If you have a Premium Summer Card you get a 20 EUR discount on a e-bike rental.

We took an e-bike to Darmstädter Hütte, and while the trail was undeniably tough, the views throughout were breathtaking. The trail is a 12.5km return trail with 1,125m elevation change (so 25km in total).

Cycling to Darmstädter Hütte from St Anton

We picked up our e-bikes from The Great Valluga store in town, and started cycling from there. I loved the trail because it was super scenic, and you could see the landscape change as you cycled your way up the mountain.

Starting with the scenic views over St Anton town, then cycling through pine tree forests until you reach the stunning Kartell alpine lake, and then for the final mountainous stretch to Darmstädter Hütte.

Each section of the trail had a distinctive landscape, and they were all stunning. Kartell Lake is genuinely one of the most incredible places I’ve ever seen.

Soaking in the sunshine at Kartell Lake in Austria

The water was so bright and turquoise, and the contrast with the green mountains so strong, it looked like a postcard.

Reaching Darmstädter Hütte was incredibly satisfying, and we rewarded us with some homemade knödels, arguably amongst the best in Austria. They have different types and you can mix and match so you try different flavours.

Just because the cycle back is downhill doesn’t mean it was easy. It was much quicker for sure, but you still have to concentrate on the steep mountain path.

It was one of my first times properly mountain biking, and I loved it so much I will be doing it again for sure.

Finally reaching Darmstädter Hütte!

You can do yoga with a mountain view

Tough outdoors sports aren’t the only thing you can do in St Anton in summer. It’s a great destination also if you want to disconnect, recharge and get back in touch with yourself.

Almost every day you will find yoga classes taking place at Arlflow, a yoga studio just in front of the ski slopes. The yoga studio has wide windows with view of the slopes, forest and surrounding mountain.

If the weather is good, the yoga classes can also take place outside. With the free summer card you get one yoga lesson included, whilst the premium summer card allows you to join as many yoga classes as you want.

After two days of hiking and biking, a relaxing yoga flow was exactly what we needed to stretch our muscles and relax.

Every year they also run a Mountain Yoga Festival on the first weekend of September, the perfect combination for keen nature and yoga lovers!

Arlflow, the yoga studio where we did yoga in St Anton, Austria

You can take the cable cars to enjoy amazing mountain views

If you want to enjoy stunning mountain views, but without having to hike or bike for hours to see them, worry not, as there’s a solution also for you!

In summer in St Anton there are four cable cars running, going on both sides of the valley.

You could even take a cable car all the way up to Valluga, at 2,811m! Use of the cable cars is covered by your summer card, both the free one and premium one.

Making the most of the cable cars is a great way to enjoy the unique mountain views that you can see in St Anton. You will see mountain peaks stretching as far as the eye can see, and feel closer to the sky than ever.

Taking the ski-lift up to Kapall

Enjoying the views from the top of Kapall ski-lift

The St Anton Sommer Card includes tons of cool things

I’ve already introduced the St Anton summer card, but I wanted to reiterate just how cool it is.

I had never travelled somewhere that offered a card like this, and I was honestly amazed at just how much it includes and how many different things you can do with it.

The list of activities that you can do with a summer card is huge and incredibly varied; from yoga to archery, from guided hikes to discounted e-bike rentals, or from museum entrances to torchlight walks, there’s really something for everyone.

Even if you’re paying for the Premium Summer Card, the value for money is incredible and well worth it.

For example, one return journey on the cable cars would already cover around half the cost of the 3-day Premium Summer Card.

At to that all the cool classes and guided tours that you can join, and you’ve more than paid it back.

You can go for a swim at the Arlberg WellCom pool

I’ve already mentioned how, even if you’re in the middle of the Austrian Alps, the weather in St Anton in summer is far from cold! After a long day of hiking or biking, what better way to cool down than in a scenic pool?

At the Arlberg WellCom wellness centre you will find a beautiful outdoors pool with mountain views, as well as an indoor pool and a jacuzzi area.

You get one free entrance with your St Anton summer card, and unlimited entrances with the premium card.

We went there after our Leutkircher Hütte hike, and let me tell you, it was just what we needed after hiking for 15km. You can go for a refreshing swim, sit back, enjoy the views and relax.

The swimming pool at Arlberg WellCom in St Anton, Austria

You can enjoy the delicious local cuisine

I guess you could do this at any time of the year, but, in my opinion, enjoying Tyrolean delicacies while sitting in the sun and enjoying the mountain views, is even more fun.

Especially if you’re eating at a mountain hut after hiking all the way there, it feels even more rewarding!

Some of the dishes we tried during our stay in St Anton include knödel, hauswurst, breadkaspressknodel, käsespätzle and strudel.

Tyrolean cuisine is hearty and filling, and is usually prepared with fresh and local ingredients. One of my favourite things to do when travelling is tasting the local cuisine, and learning about a place’s history and culture through it.

Tyrolean cuisine does just that, serving hearty local dishes, whose history is rooted in the traditional cooking of mountain farms.

The breadkaspressknodel with sweet kraut we tried at Leutkircher Hütte

The delicious knödels we ate at Darmstädter Hütte

You can golf on the slopes

This is another thing I had never seen before. As we were walking around town we saw people playing golf close to a ski-lift, and we quickly realised that, in summer, some of the ski slopes get turned into a golf course!

The golf course in St Anton has 9 holes, and is suitable both for beginners and advanced golf players.

It’s located just on the outskirts of town, and from the golf course you can enjoy a lovely view over the roofs of St Anton and surrounding mountains.

With the St Anton summer card you get one Green Fee covered (this is access to the golf course). It’s a great way to spend some time outdoors, without necessarily having to bike or hike up a mountain to do so.

The golf course in St Anton, Austria

There is plenty of daylight to discover St Anton

One of my favourite things about summer is how long the days are. Depending on the summer month you visit, in St Anton the sun can rise as early as 5:20AM and set as late as 9:15PM. That’s almost 16 hours of daylight!

Compared to the 8 hours of daylight you get in winter, when the sun sets at 4:30PM, it gives you plenty more daylight time to discover the town and its surroundings.  

You can spend the whole day out in the mountains, then return to St Anton and still have time to explore this cute town by day. You can wander around the town, taking in the unique architecture, old wooden houses and the green mountains that act as backdrop.

It also gives you more time to adventure in the mountains, without having to worry to be back before dark.

View over the rooftops of St Anton

Wandering around the streets of St Anton am Arlberg, Austria

There are less crowds

Possibly the most important reason, you’ll be able to do all the above without crowds! St Anton is one of the most famous ski destinations in the world, and as such attracts a huge number of skiers every winter.

In summer, those numbers are considerably lower. That’s not to say that you’ll be on the trails entirely alone.

There are plenty of hikers, bikers and visitors, both tourists and locals, in the mountains, but when you compare it to the winter crowds, it’s almost non existent.

This is ideal for anyone looking for a mountain getaway, where you can recharge in nature, away from the stress and chaos of everyday life.

Epic mountain views in St Anton in summer

Epic mountain views in St Anton am Arlberg, Austria, in summer

There are plenty of fun water sports available

We didn’t have time to do this, as we were only in St Anton for a few days, but it’s at the top of my list for my next St Anton summer trip.

In the waters surrounding St Anton you can do kayaking, canyoning, rafting and even tubing! 

If you get bored of hiking and biking, worry not as there are still plenty of water sports to try, which will still allow you to be out in nature.

All of these activities are offered at varying levels of difficulty, so that you can join the most appropriate for you.

They’re not included in the summer card, but you can see the timings at which they’re organised in the summer card schedule and even register there.

The stunning Kapall Lake in St Anton, Austria

Final thoughts on visiting St Anton am Arlberg, Austria, in summer

There you have it, my ultimate St Anton summer guide! Have you been to St Anton before? How did you find it? Let me know in the comments below!

I had previously been to St Anton in winter, during a December ski trip in the Alps , and I’d been to Trentino in Italy in summer , but neither of those trips prepared me for the beauty that is St Anton in summer.

I honestly loved it and can’t wait to go back. With its amazing mountain views and huge range of activities available, it’s the perfect active nature getaway. You have no risk of getting bored in St Anton in summer.

Whether you want to do yoga, go hiking, biking, kayaking, rafting or even try an archery class, you can do all that in St Anton, and much more!

Drinking skiwasser (a local drink with water & raspberry) at Leutkircher Hütte

It’s the perfect destination for a healthy and outdoorsy trip, spending time in nature, reconnecting with yourself and even experiencing the unique local culture and cuisine of this Tyrolean town.

I hope that with this guide I was able to convince you to plan a St Anton, Austria, summer trip, and that it provided you with everything you need to know to make the most of it.

If you have any questions, just let me know in the comments below!

* This article was sponsored by the Austrian Tourism Board. All thoughts and opinions are my own. *

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These Are The Top 10 European Countries Americans Will Visit Most This Summer

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The summer is made for travel.

When the sun is shining the urge to get out and explore the world only gets stronger.  

Summer is a great time for travelers to visit Europe. And the European Travel Commission has conducted extensive research to find out where they're going!  

Here are the 10 European countries that Americans will visit most this summer:  

10. Belgium  

Belgium might not be an obvious tourist destination for American travelers hoping to immerse themselves in European culture but it is a beautiful country with so much to offer and 8% of American international travelers agree.  

Belgium is the home of delicious chocolates and versatile light beers. You'll find picture-perfect villages and ornate and impressive architecture here too.  

One of the prettiest towns to visit in Belgium is Bruges. Bruges is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Its cobbled streets look particularly beautiful in the summer when the sun is shining.

9. Portugal  

Portugal has exploded in popularity in recent years, with more American travelers choosing to visit the country than ever before.  

Portugal is a beautiful and charming country with its own unique culture. It also has an incredible safety record which makes it appealing to U.S. travelers taking their first overseas trip.  

Portugal is a diverse country with so much to offer tourists. From the steep hills and vibrant trams of Lisbon to the beautiful beaches of the Algarve, there's something for everyone here.  

8. Ireland  

American travelers love Ireland, and 10% of Americans would like to visit the country this year. But why is Ireland so appealing to U.S. travelers? 

Many Americans choose to visit Ireland because they want to go back to their roots and explore their Irish heritage. But even if you don't have Irish blood, it's still a great country to visit.  

Rich culture, history, and heritage mean there's plenty to see and do. Explore the Guinness Storehouse or incredible ancient literature in Dublin's Trinity College Library.  

Stunning landscapes and a wild, dramatic coastline also make the Emerald Isle a beautiful place to visit.

6. Greece  

Greece is one of Europe's busiest countries in the summer months with travelers attracted to its paradise islands which boast beautiful beaches and cool, inviting waters.  

If you're more interested in history and sightseeing then you can explore ancient monuments both on Greece's islands and in its bigger cities. Athens is an incredible spot for those interested in ancient culture, where you can visit the Acropolis and the Parthenon.  

With such a diverse range of things to see and do, it's no wonder 12% of American travelers plan to visit Greece this year.  

6. Austria  

Austria isn't a natural summer vacation destination as it is a landlocked country without a sand beach coastline. Despite this, it is the 6 th most popular country for American travelers this summer.  

Austria is a popular destination for outdoor pursuits and anyone hoping to enjoy an active vacation. From skiing in the winter to hiking and watersports on huge lakes in the summer, there's so much to see here.  

Visit Salzburg for beautiful architecture, a beautiful cobblestoned center, and top-class music and cultural events throughout the summer months.  

4. Spain  

Spain has exploded in popularity in recent years, with so many tourists during the summer months that it's sparked protests. Despite this 18% of American travelers still plan to visit Spain this summer.  

But why? 

Well, Spain is home to some of Europe's best beaches. The whole country has a laid-back, leisurely atmosphere during the summer months.  

The local food is delicious. And if you explore Spain's cities then you'll find famous architecture, ornate churches, and world-class museums and galleries to explore too.  

4. Germany  

Germany might not be an obvious summer vacation destination but to overlook the country would be a huge mistake and 18% of American travelers agree.  

The Rhine Valley is a beautiful place to be in the summer, thanks to its awe-inspiring beauty and cultural richness. This is also a great place to explore the fairytale-like castles that Germany is so famous for.

If you're more interested in the bustle of busy cities, then head to Berlin, which comes alive in the summer. Mingle with locals in beer gardens, visit museums and monuments, or walk underneath the Brandenburg Gate.  

3. UK  

The shared language and cultural similarities between the U.S. and the UK means that it is a hugely popular destination for American travelers taking their first trip to Europe. It's an easy place to visit as an overseas traveler. 

27% of Americans planning to travel overseas this year are planning to visit the UK.  

The UK is home to iconic landmarks, one of the most complete histories in the world, and delicious cuisine.  

Spend time in the museums of London, and take the time to explore the wild coastline and lush green countryside that the UK is so famous for.  

2. Italy  

Italy is one of the most popular destinations for tourists from all over the world in the summer months, which is why overtourism is such a concern in the country.  

34% of American travelers said they would like to visit Italy this summer.  

From the canals of Venice to the architecture of Rome and the beaches of the Amalfi Coast, Italy is a diverse and fascinating place to explore in the summer months. 

 Summer in Italy is swelteringly hot so if you prefer cooler temperatures then try the country's mountain regions or ice cold lakes instead.  

1. France  

By far the top destination in Europe for U.S. travelers this summer is France. A whopping 35% of respondents said they would like to visit France this year.  

There are so many reasons that isn't surprising! France has long been a top destination for American travelers, particularly Paris which attracts culture vultures and romantics. 

And this summer Paris is hosting the Olympic Games in July and August which means that an estimated 15 million visitors, including 2 million from overseas, will descend on the city. 

 It's a great summer for sports fans to be in France.  

Tor Brierley

Tor has been writing for more than 20 years and has visited 25 countries (and counting!) She specializes in European and family travel and never says no to new adventures.

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The post These Are The Top 10 European Countries Americans Will Visit Most This Summer   appeared first on Travel Off Path .