unique places to visit in austria

Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria

In addition to the fresh mountain air and idyllic scenery, the European country is home to culturally sophisticated cities, quirky places, and breathtaking architecture! I’m 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!

• Address: northeastern part of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring and summer, but winter for the Christmas Markets

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).

• Address: Salzkammergut region, 70 kilometers southeast of Salzburg
• Best time to visit: both summer and winter are special

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 the open-air restaurant terrace of Rudolfsturm around the lake. I highly recommend the spinach dumplings.

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, like I did!

• Location: northern part of  the country near the German border.
• Best time to visit: spring and summer

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!

• Location: Tyrol in the western part of the country
• Best time to visit: summer and winter
• Hanging out in the gorgeous Old Town, filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss Oniriq for award-winning dining and Strudel-Cafe Kröll for coffee and pastries.
• 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! 

• Location: Western part of the country 
• Best time to visit: June to September

My personal highlights…

• Going on an incredible sunrise hike to the Wartherhorn. Although the early start of 4am was painful the views at the top of the mountain made it worth it. I loved hearing all the cowbells too!
• Going for cocktails at the funky Lust Cafe- Bar in Brennan in the small town of Bregenz.

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, it’s a relaxing place with pretty peacocks! 

• Location: south of the country
• Best time to visit: May to September for the best weather

My highlights… 

• Dining at the upscale Restaurant ARTIS the Saffron risotto was divine!
• Exploring the pretty Old Town, my favourite spots were upTown Art and the charming Cafe Mitte.

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!

• Location: 100 kilometers south of Salzburg
• Best time to visit: spring to autumn
• Trying tandem paragliding which was an incredible experience, the views of the lake and mountains were stunning!
• Going on a wonderful Panorama Cruise on Lake Zell.

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

• Location: Lower Austria, 100 kilometers west of Vienna
• Going snowshoeing in the winter and exploring the magical snowy slopes.
• Trying cross-country skiing.

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 to go! 

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

• Location: Tyrol, western part of the country
• Going tubing in Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau in the winter, it’s seriously fun!
• Tasting schnapps at Schnapsbrennerei Moserhof local distellery and Gasthof Zirmalm a cute mountain inn.

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.

• Location: western part of the country
• Best time to visit: summer or winter
• Visiting 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.
• Going on the Nordkette Cable Car, a gondola lift from Innsbruck to the Nordkette, which offers more gorgeous views.
• Experiencing the incredible mountaintop viewing platform which extended an incredible nine meters out over the mountain, being a bit afraid of heights it was a bit scary though! 

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.

• Location: states of Salzburg and Carinthia
• Best time to visit: open early May to early November

My personal highlights… 

• Stopping at the incredible viewing platforms Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, Edelweißspitze and Fuscher Törl.
• Staying overnight at the beautiful Wanderhotel Taurerwirt which was a traditional chalet-style Austrian lodge located in a stunning spot at base of the mountains.

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! 

• Location: Weng 2, 8913 Admont
• Best time to visit: summer
• Camping out overnight at the Campingplatz Forstgarten which was an idyllic spot with gorgeous views of the peaks.
• Hiking the scenic trail which started in Haindlkarhütte and took me to Gesäuse National Park via Gsengscharte. The scenery of the mountains made the 4 hour trek worth it!

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! 

• Location: 90 kilometers southwest of Salzburg
• Trying snowboarding lessons in the winter, which was a fun experience!
• Staying at the eco-friendly Gartenhotel Theresia which had organic food, an onsite spa and a natural swimming pool.

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! 

• Location: 30 kilometers east of Salzburg
• Taking the moderately difficult hiking trail from Reid to St. Gilgen which took us around two and half hours to complete and took us past the scenic Wolfgangsee Lake and thick forests.
• Taking a ride on the Zwolferhorn Cable Car Zwolferhorn Cable Car which took us over the picturesque scenery of Hörndl Mountain.

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 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 nearby.

• Address: Hochosterwitz 1, 9314 Launsdorf
• Best time to visit: April to October
• Checking out the souvenir shop which had unique gifts and souvenirs including vintage style pendants and documentary DVD’s.
• Taking an Instaworthy shot of the castle from the nearby village of Sankt Georgen am Längsee.

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 centre (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 suggest trying Wein-Gut Hutter or Gourmethotel Am Förthof.

• Location Lower Austria around 70 km west of Vienna.
• Going on a scenic cruise which took us on a round trip through the gorgeous Wachau Valley. The scenery was filled with sprawling vineyards, historic castles and pretty traditional villages.
• Dining on a meatless Austrian goulash and listening to live music at Salzstadl restaurant. 

17. Kitzbuhel

If you’re an avid skier and looking for one of the top ski resorts in the country then 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 historic feel and I loved its well-preserved medieval architecture.

• Best time to visit: every season has its benefits
• Trying beginning skiing lessons in the winter, the snowfall and scenery during the skiing season is seriously stunning.
• Going for a relaxing Pomegranate Cream Pack Treatment at Kitz Spa. 

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 loved its numerous hiking trails, its well-preserved castle ruins, and its wildlife spotting, including the European otter, the black stork, and wild cats.

• Address: Merkersdorf 90, 2082 Hardegg
• Hiking the Einsiedlerweg Hardegg trail which was a fairly easy circular walk and took us just over two hours to finish. I loved that it took us near the Czech border and the river.
• Stopping by the gift shop which had unique souvenirs and botanical photo books.

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.

• Location: Lower Austria, 80km west of Vienna
• Sampling wine at Weingut Bohmer, I highly recommend trying the Sauvignon Blanc – it was delicious.
• Dining on Austrian cuisine at Küffer Keller, I loved the grilled portobello mushrooms and all you can eat salad bar!

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! 

• Location: Carinthia, southern part of the country
• Biking along the peaceful circular trail from Faaker See to Vršič-Pass to Wurzenpass.
• Hiring a free rowboat from Karnerhof’s private beach and exploring the stunning waters.

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

Wow all these places look incredible but I’ve always wanted to go to Vienna and Salzburg, maybe next year!

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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12 of the best places to visit in Austria

May 9, 2024 • 13 min read

From Zell am See to culture-packed Vienna, here are the best places to visit in Austria © auerimages / Getty Images

Imagine Austria and your mind might well drift to the lavish palaces and coffeehouses of Vienna , the snow-white peaks of the Tyrolean Alps , the river romance of the Danube and Mozart symphonies ringing out in the baroque concert halls of Salzburg .

And if this is your first visit, you’ll undoubtedly want to see all the whole darned lot and more besides. But there is far more to this pocked-sized, landlocked country than at first meets the eye. 

Whether you are heading gleefully high into the glaciated mountains of Hohe Tauern National Park , tuning into the latest tech wizardry in future-focused Graz , hiding away in the little-visited wilds of the Bregenzerwald, or tripping along the vineyard-draped wine roads of southern Styria , which have more than a whisper of Tuscany about them, Austria richly rewards those who dare to deviate from the well-trodden track.

Here's our take on the best places to visit in Austria.

1. Zell am See

Sitting smugly on the shores of a bluest-blue lake and buttressed by lofty peaks, Zell am See is a knockout. The cheerful Alpine resort has sensational wilderness on its doorstep, including the glacier-capped 3203m (10,509ft) Kitzsteinhorn , where you can embark on a glacier trail, kick back on a snow beach, spend the night in an igloo, and ski well into summer. It’s also perfect for dipping into the ravishing mountains of Hohe Tauern National Park.

The resort has a real outdoor buzz in summer, with people rocking up to swim, boat, windsurf and stand-up paddleboard on the lake, cycle around or paraglide above it. If you’re a hiker, you’re in for a treat, too: a cable-car zips up to Schmittenhöhe to hook onto the 17-km (10.5-mile), moderately challenging Pinzgauer Spaziergang , one of Austria’s most memorable day hikes, with exhilarating views of the country’s highest peak, 3798m (12,461ft) Grossglockner. The resort also makes a terrific springboard for the Grossglockner High Alpine Road , a head-spinning, helter-skelter drive, with on-high views of waterfalls, lakes, glaciers and a sea of snowy Alps. 

Planning tip: Dodge the peak-season crowds by visiting as soon as the snow begins to melt from the highest summits in late May or in autumn before the flakes fall.

Time your visit to Austria just right with our seasonal guide

Few cities move so effortlessly between past and present as Vienna, where Hapsburg emperors ruled the roost for 600 years. The pomp and splendor can be almost overwhelming, as you waltz through vast, exuberantly gilded palaces like the Hofburg and Schönbrunn , tour Klimt-filled galleries like the Upper Belvedere , stroll grand baroque streets, and saunter past follies and Greek gods in landscaped gardens that gaze down upon the city with a kindly eye.

The music of Mozart, Beethoven and that old romantic devil Strauss reverberates in some of the world’s most feted and opulent concert halls: the Musikverein and Staatsoper . And even going for a coffee can be a regal affair at the likes of chandelier-lit Café Central , where all the 19th-century bigwigs once hung out.

Vienna isn’t all about show. Venture beyond the big-hitters of the Innere Stadt and the Gothic whack of Stephansdom and you’ll find a liveable, loveable capital that moves to its own urban, edgy beat: in parks sprawling along the banks of the Danube, at the MuseumsQuartier , delivering a serious hit of culture in the former baroque imperial stables, and at food markets like Naschmarkt , where Vienna embraces the world in street food and spice.

Planning tip: As night descends and the city twinkles, take a self-guided tour of the monumental Ringstrasse boulevard that wraps around Vienna’s historic 1st district (Innere Stadt) on trams 1 and 2.

Other Austrian cities flick on the fairy-tale charm, but not Linz . This is where Austria leaps headfirst into the 21st century. With its gaze fixed firmly on the future, this tech-mad trailblazer has an ever-evolving cultural scene, and is making pioneering waves in avant-garde art and architecture, with a flurry of galleries and buildings at the cutting edge of design; all of which helped it snag UNESCO City of Media Arts status back in 2014.

At the top of any itinerary is Ars Electronica Center , zooming in on technology, science and digital media. Here you can interact with robots, animate digital objects, print 3D structures, turn your body into musical instruments and (virtually) travel to outer space. Its over-the-Danube rival is the rectangular glass-and-steel Lentos , a vast repository of modern art, with a stash of Warhol, Schiele, Klimt and Kokoschka originals. Both museums have a face-off of illuminations when they strikingly change color by night.

Planning tip: Tune into the art and technology of the future – from VR to biotech, robotics to media art – at the five-day Ars Electronica Festival held in early September.

4. Salzburg 

On the banks of the fast-flowing, turquoise Salzach River, Salzburg looks freshly minted for Hollywood. From the moment you arrive, you’re forced to gaze up in wide-eyed wonder: at the soaring spires of its brilliantly baroque Altstadt, home to the Residenz palace , where prince-archbishops once held court, and the copper-domed cathedral ; at its high-on-a-hill, 900-year-old fortress, Festung Hohensalzburg ; at the cliffs of 540m-high (1772ft) Mönchsberg flinging up above the city; and at the white-wisped peaks of the Alps that pucker up on the horizon. 

Salzburg has churned out many a legend, most notably Mozart, who was born in a bright-yellow townhouse on Getreidegasse, which now harbors a museum that’s an ode to the virtuoso. His high-note-hitting rival is Maria of The Sound of Music (1965) fame. Boundless tours and bike rides whizz around the film locations, or devise your own self-guided spin of them.

Escape the masses by taking a spirit-lifting hike along the wooded cliffs of Mönchsberg to Augustiner Bräustübl , a 400-year-old, monk-founded brewery, with Oktoberfest flavor, vaulted parlors, and a 1000-seat beer garden for quaffing foaming beers under the chestnut trees. For a breath of fresh Alpine air and trails weaving deep into the mountains, hitch a ride on the cable car up to 1853m-high (6079ft) Untersberg on the border with Bavaria.

Planning tip: Salzburg gets totally swamped in peak season. Rooms are like gold dust and rates rocket during the festival from mid-July to late August. Spring and autumn are less crowded, while winter here is cold but beautiful, particularly when Christmas markets sparkle.

5. Graz and the Styrian Wine Roads

With a castle high on a bluff, an Altstadt that’s a jumble of Renaissance courtyards and baroque palaces hinting at nearby Italy, and some strikingly avant-garde galleries, Graz is an endearingly laid-back, cultured city for dipping deeper into the oft-overlooked region of Styria in southern Austria.

Using the city as a base, you can easily strike out onto the Weinstrassen (wine roads) that vein the gently rolling hills, flower-stippled meadows, forests and vineyards that carpet the south of the province. With vineyards marching up steep hillsides and even the odd poppy and cypress tree, this is Austria’s answer to Tuscany (minus the crowds) and perfect road trip territory . As you make your way through towns like Leutschach, Ehrenhausen, Gamlitz and Berghausen, you’ll find wineries opening their doors for tastings and farmhouses offering rustic respite. 

Planning tip: On the last weekend in September, the region pops many corks at its Weinlesefest (wine harvest festival).

6. Bregenzerwald 

Everyone raves about the mountains of Tyrol and Salzburgerland, but there’s a lesser-known region that deserves a look-in. Huge swathes of Austria's far west, Vorarlberg , remain deliciously off-the-radar, with narrow, silent valleys carving up mighty peaks and forests. It is here that the Alpine heights of the Silvretta-Montafon give way to the wavy hills and lush dairy country of the Bregenzerwald, which in turn fall to the Bodensee (Lake Constance), where Austria rolls into Germany and Switzerland. 

The Bregenzerwald, in particular, is an incredibly peaceful and deeply rural corner of the country to slip off the map for a few days, whether hiking, cycling or cross-country skiing. Roads here unzip through cow-nibbled pastures, passing limestone peaks and one ludicrously pretty timber chalet-lined village after the next. The dream is Schwarzenberg, where you can visit the Angelika Kauffmann Museum before lunch in the wood-panelled parlor at Gasthof Hirschen .

Planning tip: You’ll need own wheels to explore the region’s KäseStrasse (cheese road), which twists through valley and lush mountain meadow, linking up cheese-makers, farm shops and Schoppernau’s show dairy .

For more great driving routes check out our guide to Austria's best road trips

7. Innsbruck 

The jagged Nordkette Alps rise like a theater curtain above Innsbruck , Tyrol’s rivetingly pretty capital. Here mountains whoosh up above the turquoise Inn River and seem to sneak into every picture. Can’t decide between city and slopes? Here you get the best of both, with a space-age funicular designed by architect Zaha Hadid winging you up to the Alpine heights of 2334m (7657ft) Hafelekar in mere minutes. 

Innsbruck is perhaps unique in the fact you can spend the morning carving powder, hiking or dashing downhill on a mountain bike, and the afternoon with a serious hit of culture. Begin by wafting around the swanky imperial state apartments of the cupola-topped Hofburg palace. Nearby the Goldenes Dachl catches your eye, a late-Gothic oriel shimmering with 2657 fire-gilded copper tiles. But all that glitters here is not gold: just a quick bus hop from town, Swarovski Kristallwelten in Wattens delivers some serious crystal sparkle.

To ramp up the adventure, head to the neighboring village of Igls for a pulse-quickening ride on the Olympiabobbahn, where you’ll pick up speeds of 110km/h (68mph) as you pinball around 10 curves.

Planning tip: With stays of two nights or more, you’ll receive the Innsbruck Welcome Card, which entitles you to benefits like free public transport, bike rental, rides on mountain lifts, guided hikes (in summer) and snowshoe tours (in winter) .

7. The Wachau

Few places capture the soul of Austria like the Wachau , a skip west of Vienna, with mellow landscapes unfolding as harmoniously as a Strauss symphony. Here orchards and vineyards rib terraced slopes that stagger down to the meandering River Danube, and trails waltz through field and forest to medieval castles romantically poised on hillsides. With one of the country’s most exciting food and wine scenes, paths that are a joy to explore on foot or by bike, and poetic landscapes, this stretch of the Danube Valley is so darned scenic that it has been granted UNESCO World Heritage status.

The big-hitter culturally is Stift Melk , a twin-spired, onion-domed baroque stunner of an abbey, with a sunny yellow facade and flamboyantly frescoed monastery church. Beyond this, you’ll want to see the fairy-tale that is Dürnstein’s ruined castle , where Richard the Lionheart was locked up in the late 12th century for insulting Leopold V, and the low-key village of Spitz, topped off by the 1000-Eimer-Berg, so-named for its ability to fill 1000 buckets of wine each season. 

Planning tip: Trains run from Vienna to Krems and Melk in an hour, making this a cracking day trip from the capital . Rent wheels with nextbike to pedal along the river and through wine country on a stretch of the Danube Cycle Path.

Looking for other day trips from Vienna? Here are some of the best

9. Bad Gastein

Smuggled away in a wildly romantic valley in the glacier-capped Hohe Tauern mountains, Bad Gastein is an instant heart-stealer, with belle époque villas that evoke the grace of a bygone age clinging to sheer, forested slopes, and a 341m (1119ft) waterfall plummeting over cliffs. Over the centuries the town has beguiled everyone – from beauty-conscious Romans to romantic souls such as Schubert and Klimt and royals like Empress Elisabeth – for the miraculous healing powers of its radon-laced thermal hot springs. 

Today you can take these same waters at the grotto-filled Felsentherme and architecturally innovative Alpentherme baths. Or, for greater impact, go deep into the bowels of the Gasteiner Heilstollen , a medieval gold mine turned health center, to absorb the radon (taster sessions are available), said to cure all manner of ills from arthritis to fibromyalgia.

One look at the mountains that fling up above the valley and you’ll be itching to head higher. A gondola swings up to 2200m (7218ft) Stubnerkogel , where you can hike across a 140m-long (459ft) suspension bridge for out-of-this-world views deep into the snowy Hohe Tauern peaks, or ski in winter.

Planning tip: Stay overnight and you get the Gastein Card, which entitles you to free use of local public transport, free guided half-day and full-day hikes, plus substantial discounts on mountain lifts, thermal baths and activities.

10. Salzkammergut Lakes

If you’ve ever swooned over a lake scene in The Sound of Music it was probably filmed in the Salzkammergut , a fantasy region of jewel-colored Alpine lakes, wildflower-strewn valleys and peaks topping out near the 3000m (9845ft) mark. Should you only have time to see one lake, make it crazily pretty Hallstatt , a heavenly splash of glassy green-blue water, rimmed by the Dachstein Mountains. So gorgeous that it inspired the kingdom of Arendelle in the 2013-Disney blockbuster Frozen , its looks haven’t gone unnoticed and the village’s streets are clogged in summer. A funicular floats up to UNESCO-listed Salzwelten , the world’s oldest salt mines, which peer back on 7000 years of history and once produced the region’s "white gold".

The region rewards those who don’t rush straight off: allow longer so you can soak in thermal baths in spa town Bad Ischl, bathe in the warm waters of crescent-shaped Mondsee , follow in pilgrim’s footsteps to Wolfgangsee, and explore the icy underworld of the Dachstein Caves in Obertraun.

Planning tip: While July to early September are ideal for lake swimming (the water is mighty chilly at other times of the year), you might prefer to visit in the shoulder seasons – spring and autumn are glorious – to escape the selfie stick-wielding throngs and enjoy the lakes in peace. 

11. Steyr and Nationalpark Kalkalpen 

So you want to go properly off piste? Upper Austria is the place to do just that. Somehow this region has managed to slip under the tourist radar – making it ripe for an away-from-the-crowds adventure. This province has its own quiet, lingering beauty, with golden wheat fields giving way to patchwork fields and apple orchards that in turn rise to mountains rolling to the Czech border. It’s a joy to explore on foot or by bike, with cycle paths hugging river banks, rambling farms selling homegrown Most (cider) and mellow autumn mists. 

The fairest town by far is Steyr, which composer Franz Schubert called "inconceivably lovely" and used as the inspiration for his sprightly "Trout Quintet". At the confluence of the swiftly flowing Enns and Steyr rivers, this pretty town of cobblestones and pastel-hued baroque houses makes a brilliant base for diving into the rest of the region.

Planning tip: For hiking, mountain-biking and rock climbing action, the Nationalpark Kalkalpen ’s limestone peaks, gorges, and high moors are within easy striking distance. 

12. St Anton am Arlberg

In the beginning there was St Anton am Arlberg... In the place where the country’s first ski club was founded in 1901 and downhill skiing was born, the Austrian Alps take a huge leap into wilder heights. Overshadowed by a real beast of a mountain called Valluga (2809m/9216ft), this resort makes even veteran skiers quiver in their boots with some of Austria’s steepest on- and off-piste skiing . The ultimate challenge is the Run of Fame. One of the longest circuits in the Alps, this 85km (53-mile) marathon ski wraps up the entire Arlberg arena and covers 18km (11 vertical miles). With 305km (190 miles) of slopes to pound, the skiing here is the stuff of legend. And the après-ski scene is bonkers – people here like to party as hard as they play.

While winter is the big deal for most, the outdoor action ramps up in summer too, with hiking trails heading from peak to glorious peak, and adventure pros H2O taking you white water rafting on the fast-flowing Inn River, canyoning in the surrounding gorges, tubing, and mountain biking. If mindfulness is more your bag, mountain yoga is having a moment here too, with the resort playing host to a peak-gazing, mood-lifting, body-bending festival in early September.  

Planning tip: From mid-June to early October, all guests receive the handy St Anton Summer Card , including benefits like free use of public transport, entrance to local museums, guided hikes, yoga classes and swimming pool entry.

This article was first published Nov 2, 2021 and updated May 9, 2024.

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24 Awesome Things To Do in Austria: Places to Visit, Experiences & Attractions

Home » Destinations » Europe » Austria » 24 Awesome Things To Do in Austria: Places to Visit, Experiences & Attractions

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Updated: 9th August 2023

Austria’s attractions list is lengthy: the epic Alps, classical concert halls, gorgeous storied Old Towns, serious snow sports and alluring lakes. But once you start diving into all the best things to do in Austria , you realise that the country that gave the world Mozart has also gifted us plenty more.

From hot spring spa towns and river-flanking wine regions to storybook-style Abbey libraries and scenic railway rides, experiencing all of the best places to visit in Austria will require plenty of return trips – something I can testify to after visiting the country numerous times over the past two decades.

And when you start to discover all of Austria’s curiosities, such as the world’s largest ice cave, the last occupied European hermitage, and even the planet’s (likely) oldest restaurant, the list of things to do in Austria grows even longer, making narrowing down the best experiences in Austria a challenging task. Still, whether you’re after adrenaline in the Alps, laid-back cultural experiences in the countryside, or an unforgettable Austrian city break , you’ll find it in this magical landlocked country. 

Experience summer highs in Innsbruck’s Alps  

Innsbruck might be Austria’s fifth largest city, but it’s very much more about mountains than museums – although they have a handful of excellent cultural spaces, too. Enveloped by the Austrian Alps, this is a ski-lovers playground in winter, yet when the snow thaws, the city feels like a different world – making a visit to the ‘Top of Innsbruck’ one of the best things to do in Austria year-round.

Boasting a quick turnaround from the fairytale Old Town to the Nordkette , the highest peak on the city’s limits,  you can be transported by cable car from cultural attractions to soaring saw-toothed peaks in around 40 minutes. And while tearing yourself away from the palaces and attractions of the Altstadt (Old Town) – such as the shimmering Golden Roof and Tyrolean Folk Art Museum – isn’t easy; eventually, the call of the Alps becomes too loud.

Once it does, you’re in for a treat. Atop the Nordkette Range, part of Austria’s biggest natural park, the Karwendel, rock climbers, hikers, and photographers are rewarded with two panoramas. In one direction, the valley stretches out, with Innsbruck sitting on either side of the emerald-tinted River Inn, and behind, a snow-sprinkled landscape of cinematic mountains awaits. With a funicular and gondola providing easy and accessible connections, these Alps really are open to all, making Innsbruck in summer one of the best places to visit in Austria to combine culture and cuisine with mountains and museums.

Read More: Summer in Innsbruck, where the highs are for all

Get lost in Graz’s courtyards

Graz is Austria’s second city, but it remains relatively unsung. Why? I’ll never know; this is one of my favourite places to visit in Austria. And judging by Graz’s accolades, I’m not the only one who thinks so. As well as being awarded UNESCO World Heritage Status for its Mediterranean-esque Old Town, Graz also holds a UNESCO City of Design title – showing how this sustainable city has two very different contrasting stories, cut in two by the River Mur.

There’s plenty to enjoy while exploring the city, from the Styrian Armoury – the world’s largest – crammed with swords, protective gear and other weapons to the Uhrturm (Clock Tower), which tells the city’s story of surviving the French invasion, the landmarks are aplenty. But moments from these more obvious attractions, you’ll find a cluster of courtyards in multiple styles. One of my favourite things to do in Austria is to stroll between these little corners of calm, perhaps sipping a coffee or glass still fermenting Sturm wine from the surrounding Styrian countryside – you might even stumble upon a dance class in summer. Some, such as the magnificent Italian-inspired Grazer Landhaus, are grander than others, but each little pocket has its own charm. 

Once you’ve had your fill of courtyard culture, be sure to explore Graz beyond the Old Town . From the Murinsel, a river-crossing bridge that doubles as an art venue, to the modern art gallery nicknamed the ‘Friendly Alien’, Graz’s design credentials are serious – and that’s before you start diving into the vintage stores and boutiques of the up-and-coming Gries and Lend districts. Oh, and it’s also one of Europe’s best food destinations , too.

Read More: Slow down in Graz, Austria’s sustainable city break

Ride the breathtaking Semmeringbahn railway

Rail is something that Austria just gets right, and touring the country by train is an absolute joy. On my last few visits, I’ve even arrived by international train, utilising the Nightjet services by OBB, the federal rail company. But not all train journeys are created equally, and while it may seem that most carriages offer cinematic views wherever they are heading in the country, some truly stand out.

The scenic journey on the Semmeringbahn is one of those trips, and it’s no surprise that riding these rails is now considered one of the best things to do in Austria. Awarded World Heritage Status , the historic track was the first mountain railway in the world, opening in 1854. Across the 41-kilometre journey, you’ll pass numerous viaducts and tunnels as the lush forested landscape glides past your window.

Connecting Gloggnitz to Mürzzuschlag, the vistas offered will depend on the season: from summer in Austria ‘s verdant saturation to winter’s snow-covered scenery and autumn’s golden hue. But no matter what time of year you board, you will surely be impressed by this engineering marvel through the mountains.

Hike The Asitz, Austria’s ‘Mountain of Senses’

While there are plenty of excellent multi-day hikes in Austria, I treasure the trails on The Asitz Mountain most dearly. In winter, this soaring peak is coated in snow, but by summer, it’s a different picture, providing one of the most culture-meets-countryside things to do in Austria. 

Set in Saalfelden Leogang , a Sazlburgland sub-region less known by international visitors but a beloved place to visit in Austria for the locals, this peak brings together everything the nation holds dear: jaw-dropping nature and classical composition.

Art installations link the middle and top gondola stations together through a forest trail, sculpture and herb gardens provide respite, paddling pools and still lakes bring cooling air to the sun-kissed slopes, and the open-air hammocks at the ‘Cinema of Nature’ invite you to sit and simply admire the landscapes. Most notable is the summer concert program when classical performances take place lakeside, the imposing peaks of the range creating a cinematic backdrop. Even if you don’t get the opportunity to enjoy a live performance, a handful of wooden huts dot the Mountain of Senses – as it’s known locally – where you can sit down, recline, and listen to old recordings through a built-in speaker system.

Read More: Why Austria’s Asitz Mountain is the country’s best cultured hike

Lose yourself in incredible libraries 

Unsurprisingly for a country with a passion for the arts and writing – and even Franz Kafka on their list of acclaimed authors – Austria has many beautiful libraries . No longer just spots to read or study, some of these grand book-coated rooms have become standout places to visit in Austria in their own right.

Fascinatingly, some of these are also housed in the nation’s most impressive Abbeys and Monasteries. As well as the Melk Abbey library (more on that later), you’ll find inspiring book collections in spots such as the Rein Abbey near Graz, a Cistercian monastery where I was bowled over by the ancient book collection, and the 18th-century Admont Abbey Library , arguably the countries most impressive reading hall. The latter is home to the world’s largest monastery library collection, and strolling through this nearly 70-metre-long room is one of the best things to do in Austria for bibliophiles.

Read More: Beautiful libraries worth visiting

Tour Vienna’s imperial past and personality-heavy present

Vienna, the nation’s capital, is a city which unfurls its layers slowly. I’ve visited several times and still know I have much to discover. The most important places to visit in Austria to learn about the country’s former Imperial past, especially the Habsburg Dynasty , are found here, which makes it one of Europe’s leading cultural capitals. But it’s now all tales of times gone by; Vienna is an ever-evolving city. 

You only have to look at the playful facade of the Kunst Haus Wien, designed by the visionary Viennese artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, or the hundreds of street art projects which bring colour to the city to see that this isn’t a city stuck in the past.

Still, most visitors to Vienna come to see grand palaces and opulent state halls. Highlights include the grand Schönbrunn and Hofburg Palaces, the city’s many cultural institutions, such as the Vienna Opera House and the Kunsthistorisches Museum, plus numerous religious monuments, including Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. There are so many things to do in Austria’s capital city that a weekend will never be long enough – but no matter how long you stay, be sure to try to combine the contemporary with the classics, something Vienna does better than most. 

Read More: Best weekend city breaks in Austria

Celebrate at the Christmas Markets 

When the festive season comes calling, Austrians more than step up to the stage to answer it, and there is no greater thing to do in Austria during December than visit a Christkindlmarkt (Christmas Market).

Some of the best places to visit in Austria for Christmas Markets include Vienna’s show-stopping celebration by the City Hall, Hellbrunns’ winter wonderland and Salzburg’s snow-covered celebration in front of the cathedral – interestingly, Salzburg is where Silent Night, likely the world’s most famous Christmas Carol, was written by Joseph Mohr and Franz Xaver Gruber.

Eat in the world’s oldest restaurant

Many of the more unique things to do in Austria start with the claim of being ‘The world’s first, oldest, or largest’, and while sometimes these are disputed, they all spotlight just how much history is packed into this nation.

One of those claims to fame is the ‘world’s oldest restaurant’, located in the gorgeous city of Salzburg. The upscale St. Peter Stiftskulinarium has reportedly been serving meals since 803, although back then, it was a much less lavish affair. Housed inside the walls of St. Peter’s Abbey, it was pilgrims who first found a bed and a meal here – which is why it’s deemed the oldest restaurant to have been catering for paying guests in the world (even if it isn’t the oldest in continuous operation). 

Even if the claim weren’t true, this would still be one of the best places to visit in Austria for a (pricey) meal. The setting is storied and spectacular, with dark wood decor and thick stone walls, plus there is an ornate concert hall inside too. But the food also impresses, with traditional Austrian dishes perfected over (many) centuries. End your meal with the Salzburger Nockerl, a three-pointed souffle that was honestly one of the most delicious things I’ve ever eaten. This isn’t a restaurant which rides on its reputation; the chefs (and first-class service) actually know how to deliver!

Read More: Things to do in Salzburg

Attend a cultural festival in Linz

No matter where you visit in the country, the top things to do in Austria will near-always come back to some kind of cultural or classical music connection, and Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, is no different.

Something of an underrated European city , Linz is far from being one of Austria’s most known destinations, though anyone who has taken a river cruise along the Danube has likely explored the cute cobble-stoned streets of the Old Town.

But it’s during the multiple festival seasons throughout the year that Linz really comes alive, hosting world-class cultural events across the city. Whether it’s the Pflasterspektakel in July, when street artists take over the city, a selection of ‘Long Summer Nights’ events shared between churches or riverside fireworks, or cultural programme weeks specialising in anything from street food and museums to children activities and classical concerts, this is a cultured city that always seems busy.

Read More: Visit these underrated European cities instead

Soak up Salzburg’s year-round music culture

If you’re visiting Salzburg, perhaps the prettiest city in the country, chances are you’ll want to see a classical music concert. This is the birthplace of Mozart and The Sound of Music, after all. Well, fear not; some of the best places in Austria to enjoy a performance are found here, and Salzburg has a year-round programme of concerts and festivals to keep you entertained.

I’d say the best thing to do in Austria regarding classical music is to visit Salzburg’s Summer Festival (July and August), which has been providing world-class entertainment for over a century. The concert hall in the Haus für Mozart is also splendid.

But no matter where you go in the city, music might follow; whether you’re exploring the Mirabell Palace and Gardens or the Hohensalzburg Fortress high above the city, there is often an instrument being played. Even if you hate classical music, I’d still urge you to go; there are so many awesome things to do in Salzburg , and it’s truly one of the most spectacularly beautiful cities on this planet.

Read More: Year-round music festivals in Salzburg

Relish Wolfgangsee’s watersports

When the warmer months arrive, one of the most popular things to do in Austria is venture to one of the country’s dazzling lakes. Being landlocked doesn’t stop the Austrians from swimming or enjoying watersports, and you’ll find magnificent bodies of water all over the country – from turquoise-fringed lakes in Tyrol perfect for bathing to watersport wonderlands backed by mountains.

One of my favourite places to visit in Austria to be by the water is Lake Wolfgangsee, easily reachable by bus from Salzburg. Starting from the adorable town of Saint Gilgen, where wooden-clad homes are decorated with multi-hued flower boxes, you can set off on all kinds of adventures. Ride the gondola up to the Aussichtsplattform Zwölferhorn observation deck for epic trails and panoramas over the azure waters, rent kayaks or SUP boards to explore the lake, or make a circuit of this vast body of water with occasional dips to keep cool.

Another cool spot to see near here is the Red Bull HQ, a futuristic building that seemingly floats above its own lake. 

Read More: Why you should visit Austria in summer

Take a dip in Austria’s hot springs and sauna culture 

If you’re not a fan of lakes or cool refreshing waters, then fear not, for another popular thing to do in Austria is to bathe in hot springs or refresh in saunas – all in the name of learning about Austria’s culture, of course.

Some of the most popular places to visit in Austria for hot springs are Bad Ischl (one of the European Capitals of Culture for 2024 ), Tyrol’s Ötztal Valley, and Solden. These thermal waters have long been a place of retreat for nobility and aristocracy, but now they are very much open to all, putting Austria’s Alpine wellness offering firmly on the map.

Saunas are also a big deal in Austria, but the nearly uniform compulsory nudity across the country can put some visitors off – though, once you’ve tried it once, you’ll likely be far more relaxed about getting your kit off the next time.

Read More: This Austrian Alpine lodge is a perfect escape

Wine and dine authentically at a Heuriger or Buschenschank

Austrian food can mean many things, and often, the country’s love for a good Schnitzel overshadows all else. But some of the most interesting and authentic places to visit in Austria for food are offbeat and away from the main cities, located in small farming communities where natural produce rules supreme – especially post-harvest season. 

Around Vienna and Eastern Austria, these are called Heuriger, and they work as a sort of restaurant or tavern which offers fresh and young wines – sometimes straight from the newest batch. In Styria and the south, they work similarly but have the name Buschenschank.

These special places also have some rules, as they are far from your traditional licensed restaurant. You must have a vineyard or fruit production to operate one; they can only serve cold food, and the focus must remain on the regional products produced by the farm itself. The opening hours and days are also restricted. It’s very different from your typical beer tavern, and they allow for an intimate chance to appreciate Austrian wines and food directly from the suppliers. If you’re on a road trip or taking the train out to the countryside, it’s well worth trying to seek a Heuriger or Buschenschank out for some cold cuts paired with this season’s wines. 

Read More: Things to do in Graz and nearby Styria

Visit Europe’s last occupied hermitage

One of the more offbeat things to do in Austria is to take a hike up a hill and meet the man living in Europe’s last occupied hermitage . 

Located on the edge of Saalfelden city overlooking the valley, this small white chapel is built into the rockface, complete with a little terrace and a humble home for the hermit. It’s an intimate location with some magnificent views, and if you’re lucky like I was, you might even get a chance to exchange a few words with the resident himself. Having been in use since the 17th century, it’s quite fascinating to find the hermitage still occupied. Afterwards, visit the nearby Kühloch Cave, used for shelter during the Bronze Age.

Read More: Things to do in Saalfelden-Leogang

Sample the Wachau vineyards by boat or train

Austria’s wine production might not be as famed as that of France, Spain or Italy, but that doesn’t mean you should skip the vineyards. Providing beautiful backdrops to low-slung mountains and storybook villages, the vines around Styria and the Danube, in particular, are a delight to explore.

In Wachau, only around one hour from Vienna, you can combine a train and boat ride with a vineyard visit, allowing you to enjoy three of the best things to do in Austria in one incredible day trip. These vines have produced wine since Roman times, although much of the current methods and growth came around the 14th century. Riesling and Grüner Veltliner are the two main grapes, and along the stretch between Krems and Melk, plenty of vineyards are open for visits and tastings.

You can travel between the two on a ferry ride, offering river vistas for a couple of hours or the scenic train that cuts through the vineyards themselves. I opted to take the ferry from Melk, explore the town and visit a vineyard, and then the scenic train back – a package price of less than €50 makes this a pretty fair-priced outing by Austrian standards.

See Zaha Hadid’s architectural legacy

One of the most inspiring architects of the last century, Iraq-born Dame Zaha Hadid , has created visionary buildings the world over, and the late architect’s imprint has been firmly left in Austria.

Some of the places in Austria where you can see Zaha Hadid’s work include Innsbruck, where her soaring Bergisel Ski Jump tower and curved funicular stations bring a little design splendour to the Alps. In Graz, you’ll find the view-hole like Argos Residences near the Opera house. And in Vienna, it’s the university library, where the imposing overhanging design provides a landmark on campus.

Live Austria’s history at the open-air museum  

Any list of the best things to do in Austria is peppered with museums, covering everything from portraits and artefacts to armoury and aristocrats. But the Austrian Open-Air Museum in Stübing (not far from Graz) is rather remarkable and arguably one of the best places to visit in Austria to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s lived history. 

Walking around the open-air grounds, you’ll find various traditional homes and styles from bygone eras. Each one has been moved from its original location in the Austrian countryside and painstakingly rebuilt here with precision, allowing insight into the day-to-day life of years gone by. On some special days in summer, interactive experiences are hosted, showing traditional woodwork and crafts.

If you book a guided tour, you’ll be able to gain a deeper understanding by going to otherwise off-limit rooms and get a chance to partake in some of the old-world tasks that Austrians relied on for food, heat, and commerce.

Winter sports among epic Alps 

While this one is pretty self-explanatory, it wouldn’t be a conclusive list of awesome things to do in Austria without mentioning the nation’s winter spots. Skiing is one of the most beloved pastimes in this country, and the options for resorts are numerous. Sadly, I’m a terrible skier and much better acquainted with Apres-ski waiting for friends, so I can’t make suggestions on the best pistes, but there are plenty of incredible ski destinations in Austria for those who venture here in winter.  

Read More: Best places to visit in Europe in Winter

Venture inside the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave

Skiing and snowboarding might be two of the top things to do in Austria, but if you want ice-cold adventures with less adrenaline, you should venture inside the Eisriesenwelt , the largest ice cave in Europe.

This is perhaps the most memorable place I visited in Austria. Partly because I climbed the icy path there in trainers and spent a lot of time sliding dangerously close to the edge as a broke backpacker many years ago, but mainly due to the unfathomable sight which awaits hidden within. An easy day trip from Salzburg, the cave is accessed via the town of Werfen and stretches some 42 kilometres into the Hochkogel mountain.

Inside the limestone cave, an otherworldly scene of stalactites greets you, and huge cavernous rooms with frozen chunks of mystical ice seemingly suspended from the ceilings like huge vertical tubes. While only some parts of the cave system are accessible by the public, the ones that are open are some of the most fascinating places to visit in Austria – there aren’t many destinations which have left me in so much awe.

Hop between three countries on Bodensee (Lake Constance)

Lake Constance, or Bodensee in German, is not only one of the best places to visit in Austria but also in Germany and Switzerland. Shared by the three countries, this body of water is beloved for summer getaways, and in one day, you could hop between the three countries using a boat, car, or bus. 

The ferry that operates on Bodensee is one of the top things to do in Austria for visitors who want to tick off a few different countries in a matter of hours, but equally so for those who just want a lazy day by the water. Austria’s shoreline is the smallest section, but there are a few places worth visiting, including the towns of Lochau (you’ll find watersport options here) and Bregenz for lake-side strolls along the promenade. There are also a couple of popular campsites here if you’re looking for a bit of an escape. 

Try to avoid the crowds in Hallstatt

While talking about crowded destinations, this is one of the busiest, having become one of the most popular places to visit in Austria in recent years. A pretty small town, Hallstatt rapidly became the country’s poster child thanks to its picturesque lake-side setting and spires backed by mountains. Sat on the shore of a lake with the same name, it truly is dreamy, and that fairytale magic is why it draws numerous visitors every year.

With a population of less than 1000 and millions of visitors a year, this destination is struggling with overtourism and crowding. Though, you just need to look at the photos to see why it has become a must-visit spot in Austria.

Read More: These are Europe’s best hidden gems

Marvel at the UNESCO-listed Melk Abbey 

UNESCO-listed Melk Abbey is one of the most famous religious buildings in the country and, thus, one of the most popular things to do in Austria. Sadly, that means it can get swamped, and personally, I didn’t overly enjoy my time visiting the abbey for this reason. There were an intense amount of large tour groups – and people being shouted at for taking prohibited photos – slightly ruined the experience. 

Still, this is considered one of the best places to visit in Austria for a reason, and if you come very early, outside of the primary holiday and cruise months, or prepared for the crowds, then your expectations may be managed, allowing you to appreciate the grandeur of the Monastery and its Gardens fully.

Founded over one thousand years ago, the expansive Monastery complex is now mainly Baroque in appearance – and wow, it’s quite an appearance indeed! Dominating above the Danube River, the hulking honey-coloured building is quite the sight. Once inside, you can visit a variety of rooms freely – not all, as Monks still live here – including the magnificent library, church, Marble Hall, and outside terraces, which offer photogenic panoramas of the river. You can easily combine Melk Abbey with a visit to Wachau’s vineyards as the train and ferry depart from here.

Tour the whimsical world of Swarovski

If you find yourself in Innsbruck or Tyrol, you won’t be far from one of the most bizarre, fascinating and truly fantasy-like things to do in Innsbruck : visit the Swarovski Kristallwelten.

Situated in Wattens, the small town where Swarovski was founded, this attraction is something between a museum and a theme park – trust me, it’s hard to describe. After walking through a giant garden head decorated by Swarovski crystals, you’ll be whisked into a whimsical selection of rooms where snow falls, star-studded outfits worn by stars on red carpets, and all and any kind of imitation diamond artwork you could think of. There’s also a gorgeous garden – with more crystal decorations – looking out onto the Alps.

Read More: How to spend a weekend in Innsbruck

Devour delicious regional dishes 

Rounding up my list of favourite things to do in Austria, I have to give a final mention of the nation’s cuisine. For a long time, I thought the country’s dishes were bland or heavy. However, having visited many more of Austria’s regions in recent years, I’ve realised how wrong I was – Austrian typical dishes are not delicious but differ vastly between regions.

If you ask Austrians, many will tell you that the best place to visit in Austria for outstanding cuisine is Graz and the surrounding region of Styria – hence its title as ‘Austria’s Culinary Capital’. Here, you’ll find the aforementioned Buschenschanks in the countryside, with plenty of refined dining in the city. Once a year, they even host a ‘Long Table’ where some 750 guests sit down to eat al fresco together. Regional specialities include Pumpkin Seed Oil, Backhendl (a fried chicken dish), and fine wines.

But across the nation, you’ll find some fantastic dishes that, while they might sound a bit too hearty or meat-heavy, are actually delicious. From the apple strudels and grand coffee culture to Tiroler Gröstl (beef, egg, bacon and potatoes), Käsespätzle (a pasta-like cheese), dish and the infamous Wiener Schnitzel (thin breaded veal or pork) sampling the traditional dishes is as an essential Austrian experience as touring the country’s most impressive museums or towering mountains.

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Discover the most incredible secret destinations in Austria

Best Hidden Gems in Austria

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Discover the most incredible Hidden Gems in Austria. The  15 Unexpectedly Scenic Places in Austria, The Most Beautiful Towns & Villages in Austria, Austria's Best Kept Secrets are waiting for you .

Don't waste time and book your flights , your hotel or apartment at the best price as well as your tours and activities in Austria and discover the Best Hidden Gems in Austria .

Beside the Best Austria Hidden Gem Attractions , the Austria's Hidden Treasures , find inspiration with our rankings of the Most Dramatic Castles in Austria , the Best Places to Visit in Austria , The Best Things to Do in Austria as well as the Best Ski Resorts in Austria and the Most Beautiful Christmas Markets in Austria . 

Book your flights , your accommodation in Austria as well as your activities and tours in Austria and discover the most Amazing Secret Places in Austria .

1. Hallstatt

This Austrian village is the Best Austria Hidden Gem Attraction . It looks like it came out of a postcard.

Hallstatt is a  Beautiful Scenic Place in Austria located 1 hour by car from  Salzburg  (2 hours by train).

A replica of this  Austria's Hidden Gem was created a few years ago in China, in Huizhou but let's be honest, that is not worth comparing.

Forget about the copies and come visit the original by  booking your flights  to Salzburg or Vienna as well as your  accommodation  at the best price and your  tours and activities  in Austria such as a private day trip to Hallstatt from Vienna or Salzburg .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Salzburg (1h by car / 2h by train) or Vienna (3h).

  Where to stay:  “ B&B Haus Hemetzberger ” featuring mountain views.

2. Schafberg Peak

The two best seasons of the year to enjoy the beauty of this landscape, on the podium of your  15 Hidden Gems in Austria You Didn't Know Existed , are certainly spring and summer.

The view is clear, no clouds on the horizon, you can enjoy a 360 degree view of this beautiful region.

The easiest way to reach this ocean of greenery is to book your flights to Salzburg airport, a 50-minute drive from Schafberg peak. If you prefer the train, allow a 2-hour journey from Salzburg to St. Wolfgang station. 

Book your accommodation at the best price in Salzburg as well as your tours and activities in Salzburg such as an " Apple Strudel cooking class ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Salzburg and reach Saint-Wolfgang by car (50min) or train (2h).

  Where to stay:  " Gasthof-Pension Wulfenia "  is only 300 m from the Schafbergbahn Cable car.

3. Swarovski Fountain

Wattens - Innsbruck

Swaroski Fountain is one of Austria's Best Kept Secrets . It is located in Wattens near Innsbruck. 

Innsbruck is an incredible destination, perfect for a city break in one of Austria's most beautiful cities. You can also go there for its Christmas Market , which is one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Austria , or to ski there. Another treasure of this Austrian destination is certainly the Swarovski fountain, one of the  15 Hidden Gems in Austria You Didn't Know Existed.

You all know Swarovski, the brand that revolutionized the diamond industry by creating crystals at much more affordable prices. This family group has its origins in Tyrol, near Innsbruck.

It's been more than a century since the Swarovski family had the idea of these small crystals which appeal to the general public but also to great fashion designers like Chanel or Lanvin.

Ranked among the most beautiful fountains in Europe , the Swarvoski fountain, is also one of the Best Hidden Gems in Austria . It is located a few kilometres from Innsbruck, in Wattens in a theme park dedicated to the Swarovski company. Come and make a wish in front of this fountain, it might bring you fortune.

Book your flights to Innsbruck as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Innsbruck such as your entrance ticket for " Swarovski Crystal Worlds ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Innsbruck and join Wattens (20 min by car, 1 hour by public transport)

  Where to stay:  “ Hotel Grauer Bär ” located in the city centre of Innsbruck.

4. Schloss Ort Castle

This incredible castle, which will celebrate its millennium in 2080, is one of Austria's Best Hidden Gem Attractions . It is located on the shores of Lake Traunsee in Gmunden, one hour by car (2 hours by train) from the city of Salzburg .

Many owners have succeeded each other over the centuries and for 20 years the town of Gmunden has become the owner of this castle ranked among the Most Dramatic Castles in Austria , and decided to open the doors of this incredible castle to the public.

The castle is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Discover the Most Beautiful Secret Places in Austria by booking your flights to Salzburg as well as your  accommodation and your tours and activities in and around Salzburg.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Salzburg and reach Gmunden by car (1h) or by public transport (2h).

  Where to stay:  “ Seehotel Schwan ” offering panoramic lake and mountain views.

5. Wolfgangsee Lake

Strobl - Salzburg

Located over 500 metres above sea level, this beautiful lake is one of Austria's Best Kept Secrets . It is a favourite destination for Salzburgers who want to breathe  fresh air at weekends.

Lake Wolfgangsee can be reached by car or bus from Salzburg . Allow 1 hour by car to get there (1h10 by bus, BUS 150 from Salzburg Hofwirt).

Book your flights to Salzburg as well as your accommodation and your tours and activities in Salzburg and around.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to  Salzburg and reach Lake Wolfgangsee by car (1 hour) or by public transport (1 hour).

  Where to stay:   " Gästehaus Kloibergütl " located 150 metres from the lake, most of its balconies have views of the lake.

6. Maria Wörth

This magnificent destination located on the edge of one of  Austria's most beautiful lakes  owes its name to the Church of Maria Worth, built on this peninsula in the 9th century. Yesterday the village was small and was one of Austria's Hidden Treasures , but today Maria Worth has become one of the most important seaside resorts in Austria.

This unique destination in the world attracts travellers looking for well-being, nature and relaxation, but also lovers who wish to get married in an exceptional place.

Book your flights  and  accommodation  and discover one of  Austria's most beautiful Scenic Places.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Graz (1h30 by car) or Ljubljana (1H by car).

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Linde " that offers a private water-taxi service.

7. Pertisau am Achensee

Walk in the footsteps of Maximilian I and discover Pertisau, one of the Best Hidden Gems in Austria .

The Emperor had his second home in this charming little Austrian village on the shores of Lake Achensee.

Just like him, you will be seduced by the green setting of this beautiful Tyrolean destination. Perfect for lovers of art and culture, castles, nature, Pertisau will also suit children with its swimming lakes, leisure parks and zoos.

Come to Pertisau in autumn and discover the local folklore during the festival of transhumance: cows leave the mountain pastures to return to the valley (in mid-September). They are dressed in their most beautiful headdresses and descend the valley to reach Pertisau. This event attracts many other festivities.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Innsbruck (50 min by car) as well as your accommodation in Pertisau and your tours and activities in Austria .

  Where to stay:  " Travel Charme Fürstenhaus Am Achensee " located right on the shore of the lake : it offers panoramic views of the Alps.

8. High Tauern National Park

Located in Tyrol, the National Park Hohe Tauern was established in 1981 making it one of the newest national parks in Europe and one of Austria's Best Hidden Gems . 

With its 1,800 square kilometres it is also one of the largest national parks in Europe.

Come and discover the fauna and flora of this exceptional park as well as its mountains, glaciers and lakes. Go in search of this beautiful heart-shaped lake, only visible in spring and summer.

Book your flights to Innsbruck and your accommodation at the best price and discover one of  Austria’s Most Scenic Places .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Innsbruck (2 hours by car) or Munich (3 hours) as well as your accommodation .

  Where to stay:  “ Heimat - Das Natur Resort ” features 2 saunas in the garden.

9. Waidhofen an der Ybbs 

Mostviertel

Surrounded by lush forest and crossed by a river, Waidhofen an der Ybbs is one of  Austria’s Most Beautiful Secret Destinations .

Do not miss to visit the market ( it is held three times a week) in the old historic centre to taste local products. Waidhofen an der Ybbs is part of the  Mostviertel  region, awarded by the European Commission for its commitment to sustainable tourism.

Come in Spring to admire the pear trees in bloom and taste the pear brandy, a local product that is the pride of this region.

Book your flights  to Linz (1 hour by car), Salzburg or Vienna (2 hours) as well as your  accommodation  and your  tours and activities in Austria .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to Linz (1 hour by car), Salzburg or Vienna (2 hours) as well as your  accommodation  and  activities .

  Where to stay:  “ Leopold an der Ybbs ” perfect for a 2-night stay.

10. Laxenburg Water Castles

The summer residence of the Habsburg royal family is located just a 30-minute drive (1.5 hours by carriage) from the Schönbrunn palace, another of Austria's most beautiful castles , also owned by the Habsburgs. "Laxenburg castles" is  plural since several castles and royal palaces were built in Laxenburg, a town near Vienna.

The castle you see above is called "Franzensburg Castle" in reference to Emperor Franz I. It is probably one of the most beautiful because it is built on an island. It is home to conventions and major events and has a restaurant. Opinions may be mixed about the food served but unanimously positive about the exceptionnal setting.

Book your flights to Vienna as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Vienna such as a " Schönbrunn Palace & Gardens: Skip-the-Line Guided Tour " and visit one of the Most Amazing Secret Places in Austria .

Opening hours: Open daily from 9.30 am to 7pm.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Vienna as well as your transfer to the city centre.

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Sans Souci Wien ", situated in the real heart of Vienna.

11. Landlust

Living in the midst of nature - that is the special quality offered by Landlust , one of the Best Secret Places in Austria . 

There is also plenty to discover in the surrounding area: no fewer than 18 palaces and castles - such as the impressive Riegersburg Castle - invite you to travel through time; the healing properties of the thermal springs benefit both body and soul, and for the gourmets amongst you, southern Styria offers a wide range of culinary pleasures.

All along the wine routes you can sample excellent white wines in the numerous vinothèques and Buschenschank wine restaurants. Styrian pumpkin seed oil, delicious farmhouse bread, spicy Vulcano ham and hand-made chocolate are just a few of the regional delicacies.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Graz (1 hour by car, 2 hours by train) or Vienna (2 hours)

12. Ramsau am Dachstein

Whether you are an Olympic champion or just a curious traveller ready to think outside the box to discover the  best hidden gems in Austria , Ramsau am Dachstein is for you.

Ramsau am Dachstein is considered one of the best places in Europe to restore your body, mind and soul.

Popular with Olympic champions for recharging their batteries before major sporting competitions, Ramsau am Dachstein also attracts hikers, Instagrammers, nature and authentic places lovers.

Discover its suspended footbridge, its hiking paths, ski slopes or simply walk on foot in the most beautiful places of this destination considered to be one of the  15 Hidden Gems in Austria You Didn't Know Existed.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Salzburg (1h by car) as well as your  accommodation  and your  tours and activities  in Austria. 

  Where to stay:  “ Landhaus Ramsau ” offers an indoor pool and a spa area.

13. Podersdorf Am See

In winter, it is not uncommon to see people from  Vienna  descend to Podersdorf am see, one of the Best Hidden Gems in Austria . 

If you travel to  Austria  at this time of the year you too can treat yourself to a moment of pure happiness, out of time, far from trouble and stress, by ice skating Podersdorf am see.

You can come here also in spring or summer and practice paddle boarding, running around the lake, horseback riding, cycling, kitesurfing or windsurfing.

If you are not a sports enthusiast but you have a palate for competition and are a gourmet, you can also taste the wines produced locally or the various beers from the microbreweries located in the region.

Located just 30 minutes by car from Vienna (2 hours by public transport), Podersdorf am see is one of  Austria's hidden gems , a destination not to be missed for lovers of nature, gastronomy and outdoor sports.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Vienna (30 min by car) as well as your  accommodation  and  tours and activities  in Vienna.

  Where to stay:  " Lakeside77 " is one of our top picks in Podersdorf am See.

14. Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave 

Werfen - Salzburg

Eisriesenwelt is the largest ice cave in the world and one of Austria's Best Hidden Gems .

More than 40 km of frozen caves await you a few kilometres south of Salzburg .

Do not try this experience unless you are prepared to walk a bit: the car park is  10 minutes walk from the cable car which will take you up there.

Once in the cave you will have to descend nearly 1000 steps which you will then have to walk up. Wear warm clothes (a small umbrella  will come in handy too).  The cave is magnificent and unique in the world, it is well worth your effort.

During your stay in the region be sure to visit the Hohenwerfen Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Austria .

Book your flights to Salzburg as well as your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities such as a " Cookies and apple strudel cooking class ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Salzburg (40 min by car) and your accommodation at the best price.

  Where to stay:  “ Travel Charme Bergresort Werfenweng ” Enjoy its indoor and outdoor pools.

15. Zell am See

Located between  Salzburg  and  Innsbruck , Zell am see is one of  Austria's Hidden Treasures.

Renowned for its sports facilities that host the biggest ski competitions, Zell am See is popular with travellers in winter.

In summer it is the perfect destination for beautiful walks in the mountain pastures or to let yourself be carried away by the waves on its captivating blue lake.

Zell am See is a city rich in cultural events with many restaurants and quality accommodation.

From hiking and golf to skiing, cycling, paddle boarding, Zell am See is a destination suitable for all types of travellers who stay there for its numerous Wellness and Spas, for shopping, for its gastronomy but also to celebrate weddings.

In short, Zell am See is a destination to put at the top of your travel-wishlist if you want to discover Unexpected Scenic Places in Austria .

Book your flights  to Salzburg or Innsbruck as well as your  accommodation  and  tours and activities  in Austria.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Salzburg (1 hour by car) or Innsbruck (2 hours).

  Where to stay:  " Superior Hotel Tirolerhof - Zell am See " is a 4-star spa hotel at the foot of the mountain.

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What is Austria best known for? Top 13 unique things to do in Austria in 2023

What to do in Austria? Picture this: Mesmerizing alpine views, endless hiking trails weaving through scenic landscapes, and serene lakes reflecting the azure skies. Austria isn’t just a destination – it’s an experience brimming with adventure and beauty.

Hoping to curate the ultimate Austria bucket list? You’re in the right place! Dive deep into Austria’s charm, from bustling Vienna’s hidden treasures to the tranquil vibes of off-the-beaten-path spots.

While Vienna is always a treat with its history and culture, if you’re yearning for a genuine Austrian charm, the Salzkammergut region awaits. Touted as one of the unique places to visit in Austria, it’s a haven for those wanting to immerse themselves in the country’s natural beauty.

No journey to Austria is complete without a visit to the postcard-perfect town of Hallstatt . Nestled between the towering Alps and a pristine lake, it’s a dream for photographers and travelers alike. For those with a penchant for road trips, the Grossglockner Road promises breathtaking vistas at every turn, taking you through the heart of the Alps . Then there’s the Schafberg mountain, where a climb or cogwheel train ride rewards you with panoramic views that encapsulate Austria’s majestic beauty.

And speaking of the Alps, they’re not just for winter enthusiasts. Summer brings out a different kind of magic in these mountains, with vibrant meadows, cascading waterfalls, and trails that beckon adventurers of all kinds.

So, whether you’re an adrenaline junkie searching for the next outdoor thrill, a culture enthusiast eager to uncover historical gems, or simply someone wanting to relish the unique atmosphere of Austria’s towns and cities, we’ve got a treasure trove of suggestions to make your journey unforgettable.

What month is best to visit Austria?

The best time to visit Austria depends on your interests and the activities you plan to do. Austria experiences distinct seasons, each offering different attractions. Here’s an overview of the seasons and their highlights:

• Summer (June to August): Summer is a popular time to visit Austria, especially for outdoor activities. The weather is generally warm, and the countryside is lush and green. It’s a great time for hiking, biking, exploring the lakes, and enjoying outdoor festivals. Major cities like Vienna and Salzburg also come alive with cultural events and open-air concerts.
• Fall (September to October): Fall in Austria offers pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful autumn foliage. It’s an excellent time for hiking, visiting vineyards, and experiencing harvest festivals. The cities continue to host cultural events, and it’s a great time to enjoy traditional cuisine and wine tasting.
• Winter (December to February): Austria is renowned for its winter sports and skiing destinations. The winter months offer excellent conditions for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities in the Austrian Alps. The cities transform into charming winter wonderlands, with Christmas markets and festive celebrations.
• Spring (March to May): Spring brings milder weather and the awakening of nature in Austria. It’s a great time for exploring cities, visiting museums, and enjoying the countryside as flowers bloom. It’s also the season for Easter markets and festivals.

It’s important to note that peak tourist seasons, such as summer and winter, can be busier and more expensive. If you prefer to avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall. Additionally, weather can vary from year to year, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip.

Austria – car hire:

We have rented cars many times during holidays in Austria and we always used  discovercars.com

Check out our guide to the  cheapest car rental in Austria or simply explore the options directly on  discovercars.com  if you need a car during a trip to Österreich.

This intriguing country, with extraordinary views and beautiful places to visit, should be on any travel bucket list.

What to do in Austria?

Are you planning to visit Austria? Austria is a country rich in culture and history, with beautiful landscapes and many activities to enjoy.

From the famous Hallstatt or Mozart’s Birthplace to amazing views in Schafberg there are plenty of attractions and things to do in Austria! Here are a few things you can do in Austria:

• Visit Vienna, the country’s capital, and see its famous landmarks such as the Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg Palace.
• Take a scenic drive or hike through the Austrian Alps, and enjoy the stunning mountain views.
• Visit one of Austria’s many castles, such as Burg Hohenwerfen or Burg Eltz.
• Experience Austria’s rich musical heritage by attending a concert or opera in one of Vienna’s historic venues, such as the Vienna State Opera or the Musikverein.
• Take a dip in one of Austria’s many thermal baths, such as the Therme Wien or the Therme Laa.
• Visit Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for the Sound of Music.
• Enjoy the outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, cycling, and hiking in the summer.
• Taste Austria’s delicious food and wine, such as Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, and Grüner Veltliner.

Still not sure what you can do in Österreich ?!

Things to do in Austria types:

Top unique things to do in austria: at a glance.

• Grossglockner High Alpine Road
• Suspension Bridge
• Stairway to Nothingness
• Silberkarklamm

Read our guide to find many hidden attractions, cool sights, and unusual things to do in Austria – your ultimate Austria bucket list!

All across the country, it’s filled to the brim with some of the best places to visit in Austria. From top-rated tourist attractions to free things to do in Austria – we are sure that our list of great ideas will make you want to return to Austria many times! We will for sure 🙂

OK, close your eyes.

Seriously , close your eyes and imagine…

… a country with breathtaking views , crystal clear lakes , endless trekking paths and stunning nature .

Can you see it? Yes, it’s AUSTRIA ! 🙂

Explore the best Austria tourist attractions and top ideas for unique things to do in Austria:

WHAT ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN AUSTRIA?

1. visit salzburg – a great place to stay in austria.

Where to go in Austria? Whether you are listing to Mozart’s requiem while walking around the Altstadt or taking the funicular to Hohensalzburg Fortress ( book your ticket in advance ), Salzburg is a perfect place to start your adventure in Austria. So, make sure you go for a weekend trip to Salzburg before exploring the rest of Austria.

Classical music is not your cup of tea? Just buy some Mozartkugel – everybody loves them!

Salzburg really is one of the top places to see in Austria!

Get SALZBURG CARD to get free access to many attractions and sights in Salzburg and around the city!

Book top attractions in Salzburg:

• Mozart’s Birthplace
• Original Sound of Music Tour
• Boat Ride on the Salzach
• Hop-on Hop-off Salzburg City Tour
• Half-Day Tour to Hallstatt from Salzburg

( TIP : if you have enough time you can also visit Munich or Garmisch-Partenkirchen – with a Bayern-Ticket it’s easier and more affordable than you think)

Salzburg on a sunny day – one of the best places in Austria! 🙂

Read also : Best Weekend Getaways in Europe

2. Drive-up Grossglockner High Alpine Road – must-have on any bucket list Austria!

Looking for Austria’s famous places? Of all the must-see places in Austria, this is really my favourite from this list of things to do in Österreich!

When visiting the Austrian Alps , Großglockner-H o chalpenstraße , with its 36 turns, is one of the highlights for many tourists from all over the world. It really is one of the best places to visit in Austria… especially for mountain lovers!

No question, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is among Europe’s most amazing panoramic roads . The stunning scenery, combined with serpentine curved roads, guarantees a great adventure. The entry fee is €36, but believe me – it’s worth every cent!

Make sure you block the whole day for this trip. You will definitely stop your car every few 100s meters to take pictures.

TIP : Make sure you rent an SUV car for the Grossglockner High Alpine Road adventure. Check prices at rentalcars.com

What to see in Austria? The Austrian Alps ! The views are sensational – you will want to jump…

… and she’s gone.

Read also : Best road trips in Europe

3. Walk on the Suspension Bridge – a unique thing to do in Austria

Ha! Don’t worry… she’s back… 🙂

If you are still wondering – what to do in Austria? We have this unusual place to visit. In fact, this is one of the fun things to do in Austria, which you can easily enjoy with the whole family – a must-see in Austria!

On your trip to Ramsau am Dachstein , the suspension bridge is a must-have. Make sure to put the Dachstein Sky Walk on your bucket list . It really is one of the most fantastic bridges in Europe !

Would you dare to walk on it?

Before you get there, you will have the opportunity to ride a gondola up to 3000m. Check the latest prices here . With fantastic views, this must be one of the top tourist attractions in Austria!

( TIP: make sure you take the trip 1st thing in the morning to avoid the crowd. But hey, if you go there in October, as we did, there is a very high chance there will be no one around you)

One of the top offbeat places to visit in Austria!

Read also : Best Places to visit in Europe for true American Cowboys!

4. Take the Stairway to Nothingness – stunning thing to do in Austria

Looking for top Austria landmarks? There are many unique places to visit in Austria. And anyone looking for Austrian tourist attractions, will at some point see those amazing pictures of this attraction!

You haven’t heard about Treppe ins Nichts ? It’s probably one of the most unique things to do in Austria. In recent years, it has become Austria’s top tourist attraction!

Scroll down to see pictures…

… and … tell me you are not thinking about booking a flight to Austria and a hotel right now? 🙂

It just has to be on your list of top 10 places to visit in Austria 🙂

If you love spectacular views , you will get many from the last step of Stairway to Nothingness . It can’t get better than this! Make sure to add this trip to your bucket list Austria.

Perched about 1.5 hours south of Salzburg by car, it’s one of the best places to visit in Austria – a spot that I know you’ll love!

5. Have a strudel, bratwurst or gulaschsuppe

What can you do in Austria? With so many places to go in Austria, we can’t forget about top Austrian food, can we? 🙂 Austrian mountain food is amazing!

There is nothing better (after a long hike) than a gulaschsuppe followed by a cup of coffee with apfelstrudel ! Agreed?

OK, a bratwurst with pommess (fries) would also be a good choice.

If you are a food-lover, read more about Austrian foods on traveltyrol.com – their Wiener Schnitzel recipe looks delicious 🙂

6. Go to Schafberg by cog railway…

Activities to do in Austria? Whether you are 30 years old, or 3 there are many things to do in Austria for any age!

Choo-choo, puff-puff, off we go!

Brings back some memories from childhood, right? 🙂

Well, you can feel like a child again when you jump on that cog railway – it will take you up to Schafberg in no time (okay, roughly in 35 minutes).

I couldn’t forget to shout out SchafbergBahn as one of the best things to do in Austria, could I? 😉

Schafberg Mountain is one of those places to visit in Austria you just have to see it!

6b. …and admire the amazing views!

Once you get to the top, Boy! What a view !

This is definitely one of the best places to visit in Austria – we can’t recommend it highly enough. The endless views are just breathtaking .

( TIP: upon arrival, you will have to “book” your return place on the train – make sure you stay there at least 2-3 hours)

Can you find a better place to visit in Austria? 🙂

Read also : Schafberg Mountain, Austria – Europe’s travel at its prettiest!

7. Take a boat trip to Hallstatt – Austria’s main tourist attraction

Best Austria towns to visit? Without a doubt, Hallstatt is a must-see in Austria!

When you type in Google best things to do and see in Austria , Hallstatt will be in the top results – I can guarantee this!

I guess they have an amazing PR person 🙂

Don’t take me wrong, it’s a very pretty village but there are much nicer places to visit in Austria. So call the town the most romantic place in Europe – would you say so too?

If, by accident, you end up being there, rent an electric boat – it’s fun and you will be able to take pictures from a different perspective.

Many people call it one of Austria’s best places to visit – do you agree?

Read also : Is Hallstatt Austria worth visiting or is the Town a tourist TRAP?

8. Go hiking in Silberkarklamm

Best places to visit near Salzburg? If you like nature and looking for some outdoor activities in Austria, Silberkarklamm will be definitely at top of your list of the best things to see in Austria!

If you like hiking in narrow valleys between mountains – this gorge , with steep rocky walls and a stream running through it, will be a perfect choice for you. Have you ever seen such a long wooden staircase? 😉

This is one of the best hikes in Europe and it really is a contender for the best places to visit in Austria .

It really is one of the cool things to do in Austria 🙂

9. Drive around in the Filzmoos area

What to visit in Austria? There are many top Austria destinations you can visit. It is not a secret that some of the best things to do in Austria are just around your hotel.

Wake up early in the morning, don’t waste time!

Jump on the car and start exploring – the marvellous landscapes and charming villages are just around the corner. And Filzmoss really is one of the must-see villages in Europe . Remember the name and add it to your bucket list Österreich!

(read our guide to renting a car in Europe )

10. Go off the beaten track

Adventure trips in Austria? There are 100s of hiking trails in Filzmoos, the tricky part is: to decide which one to choose. Ask the locals which one is worth adding to your list of unique things to do in Austria.

Whichever you will go for, you can be sure it will NOT be crowded…

Walks in nature – the best thing about Austria!

11. Go hiking around Gosausee

Austria places to visit? With all the things to see in Austria, this is probably the best lake in the Dachstein Salzkammergut area!

It will take you only one hour to follow the path around the lake – as long you don’t stop every 5 minutes 🙂 You will be blown away by how beautiful this place is and really is one of the best places to visit in Austria.

P.s. NO , the 2nd picture it’s not upside down. It’s a reflection in the lake!

Österreich must see! Where else can you find such stunning views?

12. Meet the locals

Best hidden gems ? Ask the locals! They always know many.

Right, maybe not all locals… 😉

But, please make sure you say HELLO when you meet them during your trip to Austria – it’s one of the cool things to do in Austria 😉

13. Just relax…

… probably the best thing to do in Österreich.

Sometimes when we travel, we are too busy ( with taking pictures etc. ) to have time to stop…

So… slow down … stop … and just relax…

Things to do in Austria FAQ:

Driving the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is just a stunning and unique experience to do in Austria.

Visit Schafberg Mountain for the best views in Austria – you will be speechless!

Hallstatt is known not only as one of the most beautiful towns in Austria but also as one of the most famous towns in Europe!

Rent a car in Austria and head out to explore the Austrian Alps.

Austria is more than just a travel destination; it’s a tapestry of unique experiences waiting to be uncovered. From the architectural elegance of Vienna to the tranquil charm of Hallstatt, every corner promises a story. Drive down the iconic Grossglockner Road and witness nature’s artwork in the Alps. Ascend the Schafberg mountain and get a bird’s-eye view of Austria’s pristine beauty.

Benefit from a journey that not only offers breathtaking sights but enriches the soul. Whether you’re drafting your Austria bucket list or seeking the best things to do, Austria guarantees a blend of culture, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Don’t just visit; immerse, experience, and cherish every Austrian moment.

Know any other amazing things to do in Austria?

There are many great things to do in Vienna but there is so much more to see in this country. So, please let us know and we will try to visit them next time we are there. Austria is truly an amazing country that can be visited at any time of the year. Whether you visit Vienna in January , hike around Schafberg mountain in autumn or spend a weekend in Hallstatt , you will always find many unique things to do in Austria! 🙂

Planning a trip to Austria soon? Make sure you use the below resources: * Find a cheap flight to Salzburg * Rent a car at Salzburg airport , but before you do that read our guide about renting a car in Europe * Book accommodation: 3* Hotels in Austria start at €55! * Read our other articles: Hallstatt , Schafberg or Road trips in Europe

Where to stay in Austria?

If you would like to see all the amazing things from our list, we would recommend staying at Landhaus Vierthaler in Filzmoos .

We absolutely loved that place!

The owners, Maria and Wolfgang, were super nice and the place was spotlessly clean ! We gave them 10 as a review on Booking.com – which we have never done before 🙂

What is Austria best known for?

Austria is best known for several things, including:

• Its rich culture and history: Austria has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of art, music, and architecture. Vienna, the country’s capital, is particularly renowned for its museums, galleries, and historic buildings.
• Its stunning landscapes: Austria is home to some of the most picturesque landscapes in Europe, including the Austrian Alps, which are popular for skiing and hiking.
• Its music: Austria is famous for its classical music, particularly the works of composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. The country also has a long-standing tradition of opera and is home to several renowned opera houses.
• Its cuisine: Austria is known for its traditional dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel, Apfelstrudel, and Tafelspitz. The country is also famous for its wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner and Riesling.
• Its winter sports: Austria is one of the most popular ski destinations in the world, with many ski resorts and world-class ski facilities.
• Its castles and palaces: Austria has many castles and palaces, like Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and Burg Hohenwerfen etc. which are popular tourist attractions.

What is the number one tourist attraction in Austria?

The number one tourist attraction in Austria is likely the city of Vienna. Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria, and it is known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture. The city is home to many famous landmarks and historical sites, including the Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg Palace, and the Stephansdom.

The city also has a reputation for its music and art, with many museums, galleries and concert halls. Additionally, Vienna is famous for its coffee houses, traditional Viennese cuisine, and wine taverns. Vienna is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which makes it a must-see destination for many tourists.

How many days do you need in Austria?

The amount of time needed to explore Austria depends on your interests and the destinations you want to visit. If you want to see the main highlights of the country, such as Vienna, Salzburg, and the Austrian Alps, you should plan for at least a week. This will give you enough time to visit the major cities and see the most popular tourist attractions.

However, if you want to explore more of the country and take your time to visit smaller towns and villages, or even take a road trip through the countryside, you may want to plan for a longer trip of 10-14 days. Additionally, if you are interested in outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and cycling, you may want to plan for even longer.

It’s also important to note that Vienna and Salzburg could take a couple of days to explore them deeply. If you have more time, you could also consider visiting other cities in Austria such as Graz, Linz, and Innsbruck, which have their own unique charm and history.

Is Austria a cheap country to visit?

Austria is considered to be a relatively expensive country to visit compared to some other European destinations. The cost of accommodation, food, and transportation can be higher than in other countries. However, it is still possible to visit Austria on a budget and find ways to save money.

Accommodation: The cost of accommodation in Austria can vary depending on the location and type of accommodation you choose. Hotels and resorts can be more expensive, while hostels and vacation rentals can be more affordable.

Food: Eating out in Austria can be expensive, with meals at a restaurant costing on average 15-20 Euros. However, you can save money by cooking your own meals or eating at cheaper restaurants. Supermarkets are also a good option to save money on food.

Transportation: Austria has an efficient public transportation system, which can be a cost-effective way to get around. However, if you are planning to rent a car or take a taxi, the cost can add up.

Activities: Austria has many free activities to enjoy like visiting the city center, or taking a walk in the park, but some of the major attractions such as visiting castles and palaces have an entry fee.

You may want to consider traveling in the shoulder season (spring or fall) to avoid the peak season prices, or look for deals and discounts. By being mindful of your budget and planning ahead, you can still have a great trip to Austria.

What is Austria’s famous food?

Austria is known for its rich and delicious cuisine, which is heavily influenced by its Central European neighbors. Here are some of the most famous and traditional foods you can find in Austria:

• Wiener Schnitzel: This is one of the most famous and iconic dishes in Austria. It is a thin, breaded and pan-fried veal cutlet that is usually served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of potatoes or salad.
• Tafelspitz: This is a traditional Austrian dish made from boiled beef, served with a variety of side dishes, such as horseradish, chives, and parsley.
• Kaiserschmarrn: This is a traditional Austrian dessert made from shredded pancakes, often served with a fruit compote or caramel sauce.
• Apfelstrudel: This is a traditional Austrian pastry made from layers of thin dough filled with cooked apples and cinnamon.
• Sachertorte: This is a famous chocolate cake from Vienna, typically made with a chocolate cake and apricot jam, covered in dark chocolate icing.
• Knödel: This is a traditional dumpling made from flour and potatoes, often served as a side dish with meat dishes.
• Grilled meats: Austria is also famous for its grilled meats, such as Würstl (sausages) and Schweinsbraten (roast pork), which are often served with a variety of side dishes.
• Austrian wine: Austria is also known for its wine, particularly the white wines such as Gruner Veltliner and Riesling which are grown in the country’s wine regions.

Which is the best time to visit Austria?

The best time to visit Austria depends on your interests and what you would like to do during your trip. Here are a few things to consider:

• Summer (June-August) is a great time to visit Austria if you’re interested in hiking, biking and other outdoor activities. The weather is warm, and the days are long, making it perfect for exploring the countryside and the Austrian Alps.
• Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are also good times to visit as the weather is milder, and the crowds are smaller. The nature is also at its best during these seasons, with colorful flowers in spring and fall foliage in autumn.
• Winter (December-February) is a great time to visit Austria if you’re interested in skiing or snowboarding. The Austrian Alps are a popular ski destination, and many ski resorts are open during the winter months.
• Christmas markets are also a popular attraction in Austria, which usually start in the end of November and last until the 24th of December. They are a great way to experience the local culture and food.

It’s worth noting that peak season in Austria is from June to August, so if you’re traveling during this time, you may find that prices are higher, and some places may be more crowded.

In general, Austria is a destination that can be visited all year round and provide different experiences depending on the season, so you should plan your trip according to your preferences and interests.

What is the prettiest place in Austria?

Austria is a country with many beautiful places to visit, each with its unique charm and character. Some of the most picturesque and popular places in Austria include:

• Salzburg: Known as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a charming city with a well-preserved Old Town and many historic buildings, including the Salzburg Cathedral and the Mirabell Palace. Salzburg is also the main location of the movie ‘The Sound of Music’
• Hallstatt: This small town is located on the shores of Hallstatter See, a beautiful lake in the Salzkammergut region. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the 16th-century Hallstatt Evangelical Church and the 7,000-year-old Salt Mine.
• Innsbruck: Known for its charming old town and the stunning alpine scenery. The city is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers many outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and climbing.
• The Austrian Alps: The Austrian Alps are home to some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in Europe. The alpine towns such as Zell am See, Kitzbühel and Lech are popular for skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer.
• Wachau Valley: This picturesque region is located along the Danube River and is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval villages. The valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many historic churches and castles.
• Melk: The small town of Melk is located on the banks of the Danube River and is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, including the Melk Abbey, one of the most famous monasteries in Austria.

All of these places are incredibly beautiful and unique in their own way, so it’s difficult to say which one is the “prettiest” place in Austria. Ultimately, it will depend on your personal preferences and interests.

How can I spend 3 days in Austria?

If you have 3 days to spend in Austria, here’s one possible itinerary that will allow you to see some of the country’s main highlights:

Day 1: Vienna

• Start your day by exploring Vienna’s historic city center, including the famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Palace.
• Visit the Schönbrunn Palace, one of the most famous tourist attractions in Vienna.
• Afternoon, take a stroll through the city and enjoy the famous coffee houses culture
• In the evening, attend a concert or opera at one of Vienna’s historic venues.

Day 2: Salzburg

• Take a train to Salzburg in the morning, the city where Mozart was born.
• Visit the Salzburg Cathedral and the Mirabell Palace.
• Take a tour of the city and see locations used in the filming of ‘The Sound of Music’
• Enjoy the evening by visiting one of Salzburg’s traditional beer gardens or taverns.

Day 3: The Austrian Alps

• Take a train or a bus to the Austrian Alps, and spend the day exploring the beautiful mountain landscapes.
• Visit one of the ski resorts or take a cable car up to a mountain peak.
• Take a scenic drive or hike through the alpine towns such as Zell am See or Lech.

Keep in mind that this is just one possible itinerary, and you can adjust it according to your preferences and interests. Also, depending on the distance between the cities, you may need to take a longer train or bus ride on some days.

How can I spend 7 days in Austria?

If you have 7 days to spend in Austria, you have more time to explore and can include additional destinations and activities. Here’s a possible itinerary that will allow you to see more of the country:

Day 1-2: Vienna

• Take a stroll through the city and enjoy the famous coffee houses culture
• On the second day, take a guided tour of Vienna’s famous museums, such as the Kunsthistorisches Museum or the Naturhistorisches Museum.

Day 3-4: Salzburg

• On the fourth day, take a day trip to the nearby town of Hallstatt, a beautiful town known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and the 7,000-year-old Salt Mine.

Day 5-6: The Austrian Alps

• On the sixth day, you can also consider visiting the nearby town of Innsbruck, known for its charming old town and the stunning alpine scenery.

Day 7: Wachau Valley

• Take a train or a bus to the Wachau Valley, a picturesque region located along the Danube River, known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval villages.
• Visit the Melk Abbey, one of the most famous monasteries in Austria.
• Take a boat trip along the Danube River and enjoy the beautiful views of the valley.

Can you get around Austria without a car?

Yes, it is possible to get around Austria without a car. The country has an efficient and well-connected public transportation system that includes trains, buses, and trams. This makes it easy to travel between cities and towns and to reach popular tourist destinations.

Trains: Austria has an extensive railway network that connects major cities and towns, including Vienna, Salzburg, Graz, Linz, and Innsbruck. The trains are comfortable and reliable, and many offer scenic routes through the Austrian Alps.

Buses: In addition to trains, there are also regular bus services that connect many towns and villages, especially in rural areas and smaller towns that are not connected by train.

Trams and subways: Most of the major cities in Austria also have an extensive public transportation system that includes trams and subways, which makes it easy to get around and explore the city centers.

Additionally, Austria has a bike-sharing system in many cities. They are a convenient and eco-friendly way to explore the city.

It’s worth noting that it’s possible to rent a car in Austria, but it’s not necessary to see the main attractions. Public transportation is efficient, reliable and can take you to most of the places you want to visit.

What to do in Austria in December?

Austria in December can be a great time to visit, as the country transforms into a winter wonderland with snow-covered landscapes and festive markets. Here are a few things you can do in Austria in December:

• Visit Christmas markets: Austria is known for its Christmas markets, which are set up in many cities and towns throughout the country. These markets are a great way to experience the local culture and food, and to find unique gifts and souvenirs. Some of the most famous Christmas markets are in Vienna, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Linz.
• Skiing and snowboarding: Austria is one of the most popular ski destinations in the world, with many ski resorts and world-class ski facilities. December is a great time to visit for skiing or snowboarding.
• Ice skating: Many cities in Austria, such as Vienna and Salzburg, have outdoor ice-skating rinks, which are open during the winter months.
• Visit a thermal bath: Austria is known for its thermal baths, which are perfect for relaxing and warming up after a day in the cold. The Therme Wien or the Therme Laa are popular options.
• Visit a Christmas concert: Austria is famous for its classical music, and December is a great time to experience a Christmas concert, such as a performance of Handel’s “Messiah” or Mozart’s “Christmas Mass”
• Visit a castle: Austria is home to many castles, such as Burg Hohenwerfen or Burg Eltz, which are open year-round and decorated for the holidays, making for a festive and unique experience.

Keep in mind that December can be cold, so be sure to dress warmly and bring appropriate clothing for outdoor activities.

Most beautiful places in Austria summer

Austria is a country with many beautiful places to visit, each with its unique charm and character. Here are some of the most picturesque and popular places to visit in Austria during the summertime:

• Salzkammergut: This region is located in the heart of Austria and is known for its stunning alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and charming towns. Popular towns to visit include Hallstatt, St. Wolfgang, and Bad Ischl.
• Tirol: This region is located in the western part of Austria and is known for its beautiful alpine landscapes, traditional mountain villages, and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and rafting. Towns such as Innsbruck, Kitzbühel, and Zell am See are popular tourist destinations.
• Wachau: This region is located along the Danube River and is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and medieval villages. The valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to many historic churches and castles.
• Styria: This region is located in the south-east of Austria and is known for its rolling hills, vineyards, and thermal baths. The towns of Graz and Bad Radkersburg are popular tourist destinations.
• Lake Wolfgang: This is one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria, surrounded by the Salzkammergut mountains.

Is Austria the most beautiful country?

Beauty is subjective, and what one person finds beautiful, another person may not. Austria is certainly a country that is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture and history, and charming towns and cities. It’s famous for the alpine scenery, its lakes, mountains, and valleys, as well as its beautiful cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz. The country offers a diverse range of natural and cultural attractions that can appeal to different types of travelers.

Most beautiful places in Austria winter

Austria is known for its beautiful winter landscapes and festive atmosphere. Here are some of the most picturesque and popular places to visit in Austria during the wintertime:

• The Austrian Alps: The Austrian Alps are home to some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes in Europe. The alpine towns such as Zell am See, Kitzbühel, Lech and St. Anton am Arlberg are popular for skiing and snowboarding during the winter months and offer beautiful views of the snow-covered mountains.
• Salzburg: Known as the birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg is a charming city with a well-preserved Old Town and many historic buildings, including the Salzburg Cathedral and the Mirabell Palace. The city is also beautifully decorated during the Christmas season, making it a great place to visit during the winter.
• Innsbruck: Known for its charming old town and the stunning alpine scenery, the city is surrounded by majestic mountains and offers many outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and climbing.
• Vienna: Vienna is a beautiful city all year round, but during the winter, it takes on a special charm, with its Christmas markets, ice-skating rinks, and festive lights.
• Hallstatt: This small town is located on the shores of Hallstatter See, a beautiful lake in the Salzkammergut region. The town is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, including the 16th-century Hallstatt Evangelical Church and the 7,000-year-old Salt Mine. The town is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

All of these places are incredibly beautiful and unique in their own way, so it’s difficult to say which one is the “most beautiful” place in Austria during winter. Ultimately, it will depend on your personal preferences and interests.

Things to do in Austria with family

Austria is a great destination for a family vacation, with a wide range of activities and attractions to suit all ages. Here are a few things to do in Austria with your family:

• Visit a theme park: Austria has several theme parks, such as Prater in Vienna, which is a great place for family entertainment. It has a variety of rides, games, and attractions, including a giant Ferris wheel.
• Take a scenic train ride: Austria has some of the most beautiful train rides in Europe, such as the Zillertalbahn, which takes you through the picturesque Zillertal valley, or the Glacier Express which takes you through the Austrian and Swiss Alps.
• Visit a castle: Austria has many castles, such as Burg Hohenwerfen or Burg Eltz, which offer a glimpse into the country’s history and are great places to explore with kids.
• Enjoy the outdoors: Austria is a great destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, or skiing. Many towns and villages offer family-friendly trails and activities.
• Visit an animal park: There are several animal parks in Austria, such as the Tiergarten Schönbrunn in Vienna and the Alpenzoo in Innsbruck, which are great places to see a variety of animals and learn about them.
• Visit a Christmas market: Austria is known for its Christmas markets, which are set up in many cities and towns

Is it worth visiting Austria?

Yes, it is definitely worth visiting Austria. The country offers a diverse range of attractions and activities that can appeal to different types of travelers.

Austria is known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and history. It offers beautiful alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and charming towns and cities such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Graz. These places are popular for their historic sites and landmarks, museums, and cultural events.

Additionally, Austria is a great destination for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and biking in the summer and winter. The country is also known for its thermal baths and spas, which are perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The country also has a rich culinary tradition, with a variety of delicious local dishes, such as Wiener Schnitzel, Kaiserschmarrn, and Apfelstrudel.

Furthermore, Austria is a safe and stable country, with a high standard of living, and a welcoming and friendly population.

In conclusion, Austria is a country with a lot to offer, with a wide range of activities, attractions and experiences that can appeal to different types of travelers, from culture enthusiasts to outdoor enthusiasts and families.

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AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDE & BLOG

Austria bucket list: 10 unique things to do.

Is Austria worth visiting?   A short answer is YES. A longer answer is in this blog post. Austria is a real gift for any traveler. Fans of outdoor activities can conquer the Alpine peaks and go hiking in the fascinating Austrian nature.

Music fans and art lovers will find a diverse cultural scene with  classic to ultra-modern events. Foodie-travelers will love Viennese street food and concept restaurants. Here are the top unique things to do in Austria that you can add to your Austria bucket list. 

1. Visit the Hundertwasser House & Museum in Vienna and Find Out What it's Like to Live Inside of The Artwork

If you, like me, love unusual and quirky attractions, I highly recommend visiting the Hundertwasser house in Vienna . 

It's a house-celebration, a work of art in itself, and the most unusual residential building in Vienna. 

This hidden gem of Vienna is not located in the historical center of the city and is usually not part of tourist routes.

Vienna-born painter and architect Friedrich Hundertwasser was a rebel of his era. This building is a manifesto of freedom. Hundertwasser endowed his project with bold colors and unusual shapes. Trees grow right in the apartments, while the roof turned into a creative garden with grass and bushes. This style can be described as a riot of colors and vegetation.

Hundertwasser's House in Vienna is not his only creation. Find out about the most beautiful buildings designed by Hundertwasser in other Austrian cities here .

2. Explore Hidden Gems of Vienna and See It's Alternative Side

My alternative travel guide to Vienna is coming soon!

Stay tuned. 

3. Travel To The Crystal World of Swarovski in Wattens - One of the Unique Things to Do in Austria

You cannot find this unusual planet in the starry sky even with the largest telescope, although it is located within the solar system.

But to see it, you don't need to fly into space. 

All you have to do is get on a plane and go to Austria.

Every day in the small Austrian town of Wattens near Innsbruck, the crystal world comes to life in an underground cave.

The history of this fabulous planet began in 1995 when the famous Austrian company Swarovski celebrated its centenary. Swarovski has created a museum to help people discover the magical beauty of crystals.

The creator of the museum, the Austrian artist Andre Heller, suggested placing it underground. Well, where else can there be the treasures of Swarovski comparable in their purity and splendor to diamonds?

They named this fairytale cave Swarovski Crystal Worlds. It’s one of the best unique things to do in Austria because… well, you can find it ONLY IN AUSTRIA! 

The cave museum is a labyrinth of seven rooms connected by narrow corridors and staircases. At the entrance, you will meet a giant carved into the hill.  His eyes burn like coal, and a waterfall falls from his mouth. 

At night, the light splits into thousands of small rainbows, and it seems that the waterfall is also made of crystal. When you enter the cave, follow a glass tunnel that will lead you to the underground treasury.

In the museum, you can see the smallest and the largest Swarovski crystals. Both are the stars of the Guinness World Records. The weight of the giant crystal is 62 kilograms, and its diameter is 40 centimeters. The diameter of the smallest crystal is 0.8 millimeters. You can see it only through a microscope. 

Each hall of the cave is an unusual world where you will experience a flurry of emotions. For example, in one room, you find yourself inside a colossal crystal. And in another, you will see the history of our planet told by Swarovski crystals. 

Click here for more information about the Swarovski Crystal Worlds and to get the ticket. 

To get to the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens from Innsbruck, you can use this shuttle bus . 

By the way, if you decide to visit the Swarovski Museum and Innsbruck, you can stay nearby in one of the most amazing and unusual hotels in Austria - the Aqua Dome Thermal Spa Hotel. It deserves its title of the Instagram star.

Click here to check the latest prices of the Aqua Dome.  

Apart from The Aqua Dome, there are more unusual hotels in Austria, and many of them you can find in Vienna. These hotels are not just places to sleep but an attraction in itself.

4. So, Why Not Stay in a Unique Boutique Hotel in Vienna?

For a lasting memory of your Austrian experience, stay at a quirky boutique hotel in Vienna . 

Vienna is a temperamental city and has unique hotels for every taste.

Do you want to spend the night in a coworking hotel, in a social hotel, or an industrial hotel in a vinegar factory?  Or how about a hotel where fashion shows take place or a hotel in a store window? 

Here is my selection of unique hotels in Vienna that are different from ordinary chain hotels. They tell a story and will make you remember your trip to Vienna for life.

5. Go to a Fairytale of Hallstatt & Salzkammergut

The best place to visit in Austria? Without a doubt, Hallstatt is a must see place in Austria and you definitely should add it to your Austria bucket list. 

Hallstatt is a perfectly preserved alpine village from the 16th century on the lake of the same name.  In 1997, Hallstatt became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Hallstatt, like the entire Salzkammergut region, is a territory of mountains and dozens of lakes. Wherever you turn your head, a fantastic view awaits you. The sighs are so stunning that I wanted to take pictures every second. But then I decided to put the camera away and simply absorb this beauty into myself. 

The historical and cultural landscape made Hallstatt the most photographed city in Austria. 

The only drawback of this unique place in Austria is its popularity.

There are a lot of tourists here, especially in summer. Roughly ten thousand people come here per day in a high season. Therefore, if you do not like crowds of tourists, come here in early spring, autumn or winter, or in the summer months early in the morning at 6-8 o'clock.

The main attractions of Hallstatt, in addition to the colorful houses and narrow streets of the town itself, are picturesque nature and iconic alpine landscapes.

Another distinctive feature of Hallstatt is the oldest Salt Mine in Europe. You can visit illuminated salt mines and see current exhibitions.  Going to the salt cave on a special underground funicular is an exciting adventure in itself. The mines are open for visitors from March to November. 

A fun fact - Chinese tourists liked Hallstatt so much that they spent a billion dollars to build a copy of this town in China. In 2012 in China, they constructed a replica of Hallstatt in Luoyang. 

How to get to Hallstatt?

Hallstatt is easily accessible from Bad Ischl, the capital of the Salzkammergut region, by train or bus. 

You can also visit Hallstatt on a day tour from Vienna or Salzburg .

6. See Stunning Panoramas From the 5 Fingers: a Must-Visit Place in Austria

“I believe in God, only I spell it Nature.”  - Frank Lloyd Wright. 

“When you are looking for peace, nature is always the answer.”  - Unknown. 

“Nature is not a place to visit, it is home.” - Gary Snyder.  When you are in the Dachstein Mountains, you realize how true these quotes about nature are .

The 5 Fingers Observation Deck in the Dachstein Mountains is an absolutely stunning experience as it allows you to see the beauty of Alpine nature from a bird's eye view. Many travelers call it one of Austria best places to visit. 

Nearby you can also visit ancient caves, some of which are ice caves. 

To reach the viewing platform, you have to take an aerial tramway with ultra-modern and equipped cabins that move you to a height of 2000 meters. 

The 5 fingers viewpoint got its name due to its appearance: 5 metal bridges look like spread fingers. This "palm" hangs over an abyss with a depth of is 400 meters.

Each of the five fingers of the observation deck is special. 

The first one has a frame for photoshoots. 

The floor of the second finger is made of glass so that tourists have the opportunity to experience the effect of hovering over the abyss. But in reality, the floor is not very transparent and does not create such a powerful effect. 

The third finger is much shorter than the others, and besides, it is forbidden to enter. This finger serves as a symbol of freedom and inaccessibility of the Alpine mountain peaks. 

The fourth finger has a hole through which you can examine in detail the abyss below. 

On the fifth finger, you can admire the distant landscapes through a telescope. The telescope is free of charge. 

Entrance to the observation deck 5 fingers in Austria is free. You only need to pay for the ride on the funicular.

You can buy the tickets at the box office and also pay by card. 

The price of a two-ways ride on the funicular is € 31.50 for adults, € 28.20  for teenagers, € 17.40 for children.

7. Time Travel to the 18th Century Without a Time Machine: Visit Salzburg

Is Salzburg worth visiting? Why do seven million travelers from all over the world come to Salzburg every year? 

Everyone finds the answer to this question for himself, but I have not yet met people who regret a trip to Salzburg. 

Salzburg is an extremely atmospheric city and one of the best places to go in Austria. Even if you decide to spend just one day in Salzburg , it will be a highlight of your trip to Austria. Salzburg made me feel like a traveler in time - the Salzburgers successfully preserved the attributes of the 18th century in the city. 

The most visited place in Salzburg is the house and a museum of  Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 

In Salzburg, everything revolves around Mozart. Therefore, if you are a fan of his work and classical music-love, you will find a lot of interesting things here.

Salzburg is also worth visiting to dine at the oldest restaurant in Europe, St. Peter Stiftskulinarium. Locals say that this restaurant has been operating since before AD 803 !! 

The restaurant is located in the building of St. Peter's Abbey. Here you can enjoy a candlelit dinner with Mozart's music performed by a string quintet and two soloists. What can be better than watch performances from Figaro, The Magic Flute, and Don Giovanni and at the same time taste traditional dishes and good local wine? 

Another reason why you should visit Salzburg is to try famous round chocolate candies with marzipan filling - Original Salzburger Mozartkugel. 

They were invented by the Salzburg confectioner Paul Fürst. In 1905, he even received a gold medal for this invention at the world exhibition in Paris. 

Each Mozartkugel is still hand-made and wrapped in silver-blue foil that keeps them fresh for two months. You can buy these sweets (€ 1.10 each) only in Salzburg in five FÜRST brand stores or ordered from the online store. Only these Mozartkugel candies are original. 

Mozartkugels in golden-red foil from Mirabell and Rebel companies, which are widespread in supermarkets, sovenir shops and duty-free shops are also good but not original. To be honest, original Mozartkugels are really tastier than mass-market ones. So be sure to taste those iconic sweets in Salzburg, start with one balloon, and if you like it, take the box home! 

And if you decide to add Salzburg to your Austria bucket list, I recommend visiting the Berchtesgaden National Park.

This natural gem of Bavaria is located only a few kilometers west of Salzburg. Tourists from all over the world come to visit this unique place. Its main attractions are: 

• active salt mines;
• a Lake Königssee with crystal water;
• the second-highest mountain in Germany, Watzmann;
• a colorful resort town of Berchtesgaden;
• and the Eagle's Nest, Kehlsteinhaus. 

The Eagle's Nest - is a masterpiece of the building art of the Third Reich and Adolf Hitler’s famous mountaintop retreat. 

To reach the place, you have to drive along a picturesque mountain road and take a golden elevator to a height of 1834 meters. From the observation deck, you get a breathtaking panorama of the Bavarian Alps.  

Click here to get more info about the Eagle’s Nest and Berchtesgaden Tour from Salzburg .

8. Taste Unique Austrian Food

With so many amazing places in Austria, we can't forget about the Austrian food! 

Austrian food is quite diverse. Each federal state of Austria has its traditional dishes, such as Tiroler Groestl (fried potatoes with bacon and scrambled eggs) in Tyrol, Kaernten Kasnocken (dumplings-like small pasta pockets filled with cheese, spinach, and spices) in Carinthia.

In the western parts of Austria from Vorarlberg and Tyrol to Salzburg and Upper Austria, peasant cuisine dominates with dumplings, dark peasant bread, cold beer, and strong schnapps. 

Eastern Austria inherited Bohemian-Hungarian cuisine. In this part of Austria, you can try the best goulash and pancakes. 

In Austria, there is also a phenomenon of the "Viennese cuisine". It features dishes that came from different regions of the old Austro-Hungarian monarchy and have melted into the classic Viennese cuisine with unique dishes.  

Perhaps the most famous Austrian national dish in the world is Viennese schnitzel. 

Every tourist who has visited Austria is obliged to try this delicacy. It is made from expensive fresh veal, that's why the cost of Viennese schnitzel in restaurants is around 15 euros. Here's where to eat the best Schnitzel in Vienna .

Kaiserschmarren is another hit of Austrian cuisine. It's a sponge cake, fried like an omelet and sprinkled with powdered sugar. 

My favorite Austrian desert is undoubtedly the Viennese strudel, a traditional apple pie or roll made of thin dough. It's a must-try in Austria. 

Another phenomenon in Austria is a Viennese Café, aka The Viennese coffee house.

The “Viennese Coffee House Culture” is even a part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage! If you are in Vienna, discovering and experiencing the captivating character of Viennese Coffee culture is a must. For this, head to Demel, Cafe Landtmann, Sacher Cafe, or Cafe Schwarzenberg, some of the best cafes in Vienna that will make you feel  "gemütlichkeit" . 

If you are a food-lover, read more about  Austrian foods on Austria.info – their Viennese Apple Strudel recipe looks delicious. They provide easy recipes of almost all traditional Austrian dishes that you can cook at home. 

And if you want to eat Austrian food like a local, join the ultimate food tour in Vienna that will bring you to the secret cafes, authentic restaurants and markets. 

9. Experience the Sky Walk at the Dachstein Glacier in Styria, Austria

If you want to tickle your nerves and get an adrenaline rush, take the Dachstein Sky Walk. 

The Dachstein Glacier Bridge is the highest suspension bridge in Austria. It is 100 meters long and 1 meter wide. 

Austria's Dachstein Skywalk is built at a height of 2,700 meters.

This quirky bridge is one of the top Austria landmarks. 

For those who are still wondering if it is safe, here are a few facts. The bridge can withstand wind gusts of 250 km / h and a load of 750 kg per m2!

On the other side, the next challenge awaits you: a floating staircase of 14 narrow steps leading to nowhere! 

If you got nerves of steel, stand on the glass observation deck at an altitude of 400 meters above the abyss.

I highly recommend visiting this corner of Austria to all lovers of thrills, incredible mountain views, and nature. 

The entry fee to the suspension bridge is € 3 for adults. Children can go for free. Nearby, I recommend visiting the Ice Palace connected by a bridge to the glacier Dachstein. 

10. Taste Austrian Wines in the Wachau Valley

If you want to see a different side of Austria, then go to the Wachau Valley. Although Wachau is located only 80 km west of the capital, it's completely different from Vienna. 

The Wachau is a valley between Melk and Krems with a picturesque landscape formed by the Danube river. 

People come here to see architectural monuments and stunning scenery and breathe the clean mountain air. Bike enthusiasts and those who love adventures and active recreation go on a bike tour around the Wachau Valley.

A typical Wachau picture: pretty towns and villages along the Danube coast, old castles, vineyards on steep terraces, and apricot orchards.

This region is famous for the best grapes and the best wine in Central Europe. Almost every household in the villages of Wachau valley produces its wine.

So when you're in Wachau, don't miss the opportunity to stroll through the vineyards and taste the local wine .

One more fact that should convince you to go there: the Wachau valley is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List! So, it deserves to be on your Austria bucket list. 

A must-see in the Wachau Valley is the town of Durnschtein. Beautiful ruins of the 12th century Künringerburg castle await you there. But the city and the castle went down in history primarily because Richard the Lionheart languished in captivity here for two years. 

Another point of attraction is the Augustinian monastery, founded in 1410, with the Marie-Himmelfart church, a pearl of the Austrian Baroque.

The Danube town Melk is the western gateway to the Wachau region. Take a walk around this charming town that was listed as a UNESCO site. The main attraction of Melk is a grandiose abbey with an enormous library.  

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Hi, nice to meet you! I'm Sasha, a founder of The Alternative Travel Guide and a world citizen at heart.  

I traveled to 60+ countries on different continents and stopped counting cities after two hundred. With this blog, I want to help you travel more, better and deeper. I  write in Globish, as English is not my native language (it's one of 5 languages I speak), so feel free to correct me or make fun of me :).

More about me and The Alternative Travel Guide

All Blog Posts About Austria:

Vienna top-7 unusual & unique hotels.

Vienna is a temperamental city, so why on your visit not to stay in a hotel with a character?  In Vienna, there are some unique hotels for every taste.

Do you want to spend the night in a coworking hotel, in a social hotel, or a hotel in a vinegar factory?  Or how about a hotel where a fashion show takes place or a hotel in a store window? It will be something different from your ordinary chain hotel. 

Here is my selection of hotels in Vienna in the style of The Alternative Travel Guide: unusual and unique hotels with the history that will make you remember your trip to Vienna for life. The choice is yours.

UNUSUAL VIENNA: HUNDERTWASSER HOUSE & MUSEUM

A house-celebration, a work of art in itself, and the most unusual residential building in Vienna, - this is the Hundertwasser House. 

But if you, like me, love unusual and quirky attractions, I highly recommend visiting the Hundertwasser house.

In this blog post: Who is Hundertwasser? What is unique about Hundertwasser’s house and museum? How to get there? And more! 

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10 Unique and Unusual Things to Do in Austria

Already tried out all the top things to do in Austria and looking forward to something exciting on your next trip? Try out these 10 unusual things to do in Austria and come home a winner!

10 Unique Things to Do in Austria

• Swarovski Kristallwelten
• Starkenberger Beer pools
• Globe Museum
• Republic of Kugelmugel
• Linzer Grottenbahn
• Cemetery of the Nameless
• World Machine
• Stairs of Reconciliation
• Dasparkhotel

Austria Tour Package Starting @ ₹ 64,120

Schonbrunn Palace. Vienna State Opera. Fortress Hohensalzburg. St. Stephen's Cathedral

1. Swarovski Kristallwelten

Yes, there is a definite struggle in pronouncing the name but do not skip reading about it. Built-in 1995 as a way to celebrate the 100 year anniversary of Austrian based crystal company, Swarovski Crystal world is a museum unlike any other. Inside the museum are art installations, exciting rides and a stunning collection of crystals. The verdant hill landscape and the foliage covered giant add to the mystical aura.

Address: Kristallweltenstraße 1, 6112 Wattens, Austria

Interesting read:  Virtual tour of fairytale land: 10 best things to do in Austria

2. Starkenberger Beer pools

Not trying to sound sexist. But if you are a guy, you would have definitely fantasized bathing in a beer pool. Your dream will finally come true at Starkenberger brewery. With every experience centred around beer, there’s so much beer history, trivia and drinking. But the main highlight of the brewery is the seven 13-foot beer pools filled with approx. 42,000 pints of warm beer. Rich in calcium & vitamins, Beer pools are great for skin.

Address: Griesegg 1, 6464 Tarrenz, Austria

3. Narrenturm

Literally translating to Fool’s tower, Narrenturm is continental Europe’s oldest building. A former asylum for the mentally imbalanced, the structure is now a pathologic-anatomic museum. Narrenturm resembles a fortress and the five-storied building carries an extensive collection of items related to anatomy & pathology. Towards the end of the museum, you will find the giant Hydrocephalic skeleton which is a must-see in Narrenturm.

4. Globe Museum

Wait! A whole museum of globes? You must be thinking this is going to be incredibly compact with fewer displays. To be honest, Globe Museum is exactly the opposite. Ranging from plum-sized globes to gigantic human-sized models, there are over 600 terrestrial and celestial globes inside Globe Museum. Just the sight of it will fascinate you. Got enough of the globes? Check the scientific instruments on showcase.

Address: Herrengasse 9, 1. Stock, 1010 Wien, Austria

Interesting read:  Explore Vienna like never before – Offbeat things to do in Vienna

5. Republic of Kugelmugel

The Republic of Kugelmugel is a micronation in Vienna. A what?! Yes, as unbelievable as it might sound, the Republic of Kugelmugel is an independent nation by itself. Designed and built by Austrian artist Edwin in 1971, the spherical house invoked a dispute between the Austrian government and the artist, pushing the artist to declare the structure as an independent nation. Though it is enclosed in barbed wires, the attraction can be viewed from a distance.

Address: 2., Antifaschismusplatz, Prater, Vienna, Austria

6. Linzer Grottenbahn

Linzer Grottenbahn is an underground dragon train-ride for adults as well as children. The ride follows the outer ring of the historic defence tower and a single ride is a collection of 3 trips. On the first trip, the passengers are offered with the sight of gnomes & dwarves fishing and giant insects. On the second trip, you are presented with tatty and taxidermy. During the final trip, the colourful lights are turned on and as the ride ends, dragon head snorts steam.

Address: Am Pöstlingberg 16, 4040 Linz, Austria

Interesting read:  Best restaurants in Austria for a drool-worthy experience

7. Cemetery of the Nameless

Is this some kind of prank you think? No, not at all. Cemetery of the Nameless is the original name of this graveyard and if you listen to the backstory, you will find the real reason behind the naming. The cemetery is built in memory of 478 unidentified souls who lost their lives drowning in the swirling waters of River Danube. Every year during All Saint’s day, local fishermen honour the dead by floating a raft in the Danube.

Address: Alberner Hafenzufahrtsstraße, 1110 Wien, Austria

8. World Machine

The name and the picture would easily convince you into believing that the world machine has something to do with the fictional time machine. But, it isn’t. Developed by East Styrian Farmer Franz Gsellmann, World Machine is a mechanical & artistic installation whose true purpose is not yet known. Apparently, the farmer dedicated his entire life building this machine and many believe that the world machine is an interpretation of the human soul. Who knows it might be the actual time machine, after all!

Address: Kaag 12, 8332 Edelsbach bei Feldbach, Austria

Interesting read:  The Austrian Adventure – Part 1

9. Stairs of Reconciliation

Stairs of Reconciliation is a part of the Graz Castle, located on the east side of the old town of Graz. But the existence of these stairs is relatively unknown to the outside world. Completed in 1438, Stairs of Reconciliation is nothing but two opposing staircases which merge, part, and rejoin on each floor till the top. The sheer sight of it inside the castle is remarkable and the gem of an attraction deserves more attention.

Address: Hofgasse 15, 8010 Graz, Austria

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Interesting read:  The Austrian Adventure – Part 2

10. Dasparkhotel

How about you stay in sewer pipes on your next visit to Austria? Yikes! Don’t kill us yet. We were talking about the sewer pipe themed accommodation in Austria. Using repurposed metropolitan drainage pipes, Dasparkhotel offers an interesting way to stay in the country. And the motto is to get people interact more with nature and marvel at the everyday simple things. Skip the five-star accommodation next time and stay in Dasparkhotel & let us know your experience.

Address: Rodlstraße 21, 4100 Ottensheim, Austria

Floored by the list that you want to book your trip right now? Check out Austria tour packages and Austria honeymoon packages offered at Pickyourtrail and book the one the matches your likes and preferences and start packing.

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Home » Travel Guides » Austria » 25 Best Things to Do in Austria

25 Best Things to Do in Austria

Many people may not realize that humble Austria is actually an extremely popular holiday destination in Europe. To that end, whenever you visit you will find a huge amount to do there, and the great thing about this country is that winter is as exciting as summer.

All across Austria you will find stunning natural beauty, and if you are a history buff then there is plenty to see in the form of gorgeous churches, engaging museums, and epic towering castles. Austria is one of the smallest countries in Europe, but it still packs a punch in terms of attractions and you can spend time in some of the most spectacular locations in the world if you come here, like the mighty Eastern Alps, the magical Northern Bohemian Forest, or on the banks of the roaring Danube River.

Here are the 25 best things to do in Austria…

1. Visit the Hofburg

The Hofburg is the Imperial Palace in Vienna, the capital city of Austria.

In the days of old this would have been the home of the Royal Family who were known as the Hasburgs.

Nowadays however the palace is used by the President although parts of it can also be visited by the public.

These include rooms which date from 1275 when the palace was built and include Gothic, Classic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture.

There are 2,600 rooms here so make sure not to miss signature collections such as the Imperial Silver Collection and the Imperial Apartments which used to be the home of Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph.

2. Trek the Krimmler Ache

The Krimmler Ache is the tallest waterfall in Austria and it has a drop of 380 meters.

To get here you will first have to make your way to the delightful town of Krimml which sits at 1,076 meters above sea level before trekking out to the Krimmler Ache.

From Krimml you will find a selection of exquisite hiking trails to choose from and this is a great spot to spend several days enjoying the great Austrian outdoors.

3. Browse in Admont Abbey Library

Admont Abbey Library is a library space with a twist, as is it actually located in a monastery that houses Benedictine monks.

The monastery sits on the scenic Enns River and dates from the 18th century.

It also has the claim to fame of being the largest library in the world that is contained in an abbey, and for that reason alone you shouldn’t miss it if you are in the Admont area.

As well as the sheer size of the library you can also enjoy brightly decorated ceilings and gold leaf adornments all over the building.

4. Watch a show at the Spanish Riding School

The Spanish Riding School in Vienna first opened in the time of Emperor Maximilian II who made his name (in part) by bringing Lipizzaner horses to Austria in the 16th century.

In the present day you will find equestrian shows here which are much the same as they would have been in the days of Charles VI. The hall where the shows takes place dates from 1735 and you will get to see a unique form of riding that has been used by nobility over the centuries.

One thing to note is that it is best to reserve a seat here in advance as it is a very popular event in Vienna.

5. Pay tribute to Mozart in Salzburg

Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg in Austria in 1756. His humble home at Number 9 Getreidegasse has now been turned into a museum which is aptly named Mozart’s Birthplace and you will find family memorabilia, musical instruments, and paintings of Mozart all over the house.

Another attraction in Salzburg is called Mozart’s Residence and this is another spot in the city where he lived from 1773 which has collections of his belongings.

The last spot on the Mozart tour of Salzburg is Mozart Square which has a monument in tribute to this famous composer.

6. Explore the Eisriesenwelt

Eisriesenwelt means ‘World of the Ice Giants’ in German and is the biggest ice cave in the world, located just outside of the city of Salzburg.

As a result, make sure not to miss it if you are in the area, as the cave stretches for an impressive 42 kilometres in the Hochkogel Mountain in the Tennengebirge area of the Alps.

You can take a lift down into the ice cave before following a guided hike that will point out all the best spots inside this icy palace.

7. Discover the Tomb of Emperor Maximilian I

Emperor Maximilian I died in 1519 and was interred in spectacular fashion in the Hofkirche (also known as the Court Church) in Innsbruck.

The tomb consists of a sarcophagus made of black marble that is topped with a figure of the Emperor that is cast in bronze.

Around the sarcophagus you will find 24 different reliefs carved from marble that show scenes from the life of Maximilian I and there are also 28 bronze statues of key figures close to the Emperor including King Arthur.

As if that wasn’t enough there are also 23 statues of saints made out of bronze as well as 20 busts of famous Roman emperors.

8. Marvel at Schlegeis Lake

Schlegeis Lake is located in the pretty Zillertal Valley in Tyrol.

Schlegeis is an artificial lake and shimmers with an azure blue hue even in the winter months.

It is made even more beautiful thanks to the rugged mountains that encircle it, and if you like hiking or climbing then this is a great place to come and enjoy the great Alpine vistas for which Austria is famous.

The journey to get to the lake is also known for being stunning as you will need to take the Schlegeis Alpine Road which cuts through some of the most delightful countryside in this part of Austria.

9. Learn some history at the Landeszeughaus

Located in Graz, the second largest city in Austria after Vienna, is the Landeszeughaus which is also known as the Styrian Armory, The building dates from 1644 and you will find a wide selection of 17th century weaponry including armour and weapons that would have equipped 32,000 men.

Certainly if you are a fan of history make sure not to miss this impressive and comprehensive collection.

10. Enjoy the serenity of Melk Abbey

Melk Abbey is one of the most well known Benedictine monasteries in the world and you will find some of the most stunning religious architecture in Austria here.

The buildings fan out across seven different courtyards and the main complex here spans 325 meters.

One of the most amazing things about the abbey is that it is located on a rocky promontory above the majestic Danube and you will also find an array of varied historical sites here.

Some of these include the tombs of the members of the House of Babenberg, the first family of Austria, as well as the tomb of Saint Coloman of Stockerau.

There are also portrait galleries and statues of other famous rulers of Austria.

11. Hike the Kitzbüheler Horn

Standing proud in the Tyrol Region of Austria is the Kitzbüheler Horn which is almost 2,000 meters high.

It is known for being one of the most spectacular peaks in Austria and you can take a cable car to the top or trek to the summit from the village of Kitzbühel if you are feeling active.

Once at the top, you will have views all over the scenic valleys blow.

12. Take a cable car to the Hornköpfli

The Hornköpfli is to the south of the Kitzbüheler Horn and sits at 1,772 meters high.

You will also need to take a cable car to the top but it is more than worth the journey for the breathtaking views from the summit.

At the top of the mountain you will also find the Gipfelhau which is a traditional mountainside house as well as a dainty chapel, a typical Austrian garden, and a small restaurant serving local fare.

13. Visit the Burg Hochosterwitz

Located close to St.  Veit is the Burg Hochosterwitz which sits on a bluff that rises 160 meters above a lush valley.

The Burg Hochosterwitz is a castle that was built the medieval period and is one of the most popular castles in the country.

It dates originally from 860 AD although it was altered several times including in 1570 and it was the former home of the Khevenhüllers.

Look out for 14 different gates here as well as sun-dappled courtyards and a sweet chapel that dates from the 16th century.

14. Go for a walk around Hallstatt

Hallstatt is known for being one of the prettiest Alpine towns in all of Austria and is the perfect spot to go for a ramble to check out the local scenery.

Some of the highlights here include the caves beneath the town as well as the 5 Fingers viewing platform which has a sheer 400 meter drop over the Alps, so is not an attraction for those who suffer from vertigo.

Other highlights in Hallstatt include the Hallstätter Lake and you can enjoy boating here in the winter months or swimming in the summer.

15. Watch a performance at the National Theatre

The National Theatre, also known as the Burgtheater, is located in Austria’s capital Vienna and was founded by the Emperor Joseph II in the 18th century.

It is the most popular theatre in all of Austria and has four different stages where some of the famous names in Europe have performed.

As well as the shows held here the interior is like something out of a museum with a range of paintings, busts, and memorabilia that tell the history of the building and date from the Baroque period.

Make sure not to miss the frescoes that run all the way up the central staircase.

16. Visit the Church of Maria Saal

Located on a hillside overlooking the town of Zollfeld is the Church of Maria Saal.

The area looks unassuming although this is actually one of the most important pilgrimage sites in all of Austria.

The church dates from 750 AD and has Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture.

Make sure to check out the ornate facades carved into the stone here as well as the Keutschach Epitaph which dates from the 16th century and shows a scene from the Coronation of Our Lady.

17. Travel along the Grossglockner Road

The famous Grossglockner Road runs from the town of Bruck to Heiligenblut and dates from 1935. One of the reasons to come here is that this is one of the most amazing mountain passes not only in Austria but in all of Europe.

The road passes through the Hohe Tauren which is the highest mountain massif in the Austrian Alps and this is definitely one of the must-see sights in this region and you can expect panoramic views that stretch for miles across emerald green Alpine valleys.

18. Admire Klosterneuburg Abbey

Klosterneuburg Abbey is also the location of St. Leopold’s Chapel which is the final resting place of Leopold III. One of the main highlights of the abbey is the Verdun Altar which is made of enamel and dates from the medieval period.

You will find 51 different panels here that show key scenes from the Bible that all date from the 12th century.

19. Tour Gurk Cathedral

Gurk Cathedral dates from 1200 and houses the body of Saint Hemma, a noblewoman known for distributing alms to the poor.

The cathedral has some amazing architecture in the form of large twin towers which used to be topped with onion shaped domes.

The cathedral is also covered in gorgeous stained glass and vivid oil paintings including a famous portrait of Saint Christopher as well as the Death and Assumption of the Virgin.

Also make sure that you don’t miss the wooden panels with the story of Saint Hemma on them.

20. Enjoy the views at the Franz-Josefs-Höhe

The mighty Hohe Tauern Mountain Range is the home of the Franz-Josef-Höhe which is a vantage point located at 2,422 meters and will reveal some of the best panoramic views in the whole of Austria.

From here you can see across to the iconic Grossglockner, the highest mountain in the country.

There is also a visitor’s centre here where you can learn more about this region and which has an engaging exhibition about glaciers.

• 21.  Get lost in the Northern Bohemian Forest

The Northern Bohemian Forest forms a natural border between Austria and Germany that stand on one side and the Czech Republic that sits on the other.

The area is covered in everything that you could associate with Alpine fun such as glassy lakes, ski chalets, and rambling hiking trails that let you take in the best of the local scenery.

The forest, which is also a mountain range, sits in the icy north of Austria, and if you want to explore a less visited and more rugged corner of this country then this is a great place to come.

22. Climb Grossglockner

Grossglockner is the highest mountain in Austria and towers to 3,798 meters.

The mountain has an iconic pyramid shape that is easily recognizable from afar and although it may look imposing it is one of the easier mountains to climb in Austria.

The route that takes you to the summit has the grade of a PD+ which means ‘a bit difficult’ so even if you are not a very experienced climber it is possible to trek at least part of the way to the top.

23. Alpenzoo Innsbruck-Tyrol

Nestled close to the Old Town area of Innsbruck is the Aplenzoo Innsbruck-Tyrol which has 2,000 different animals and 150 species which are mostly Alpine animals that are indigenous to the region.

These include the likes of mammals, birds, reptiles, and the zoo is also known for having the largest cold water aquarium in the world.

• 24.Wander around Linz Castle

Linz Schloss or Linz Castle sits in the city of Linz and dates from the 9th century.

It has been repaired and rebuilt over the centuries and most of the actual castle that now stands was built in the 16th century.

As well as being able to go on a tour of the castle you can also explore the Schlossmuseum which is full of art work and collections of historical memorabilia like weaponry and armour from the Roman and medieval eras.

25. Go skiing in Arlberg

Austria is of course famous for its ski resorts but one of the most popular of these is Arlberg.

Here you will find a scenic cluster of five small villages and one of these, called St.

Anton, was the first place to use a cable car in the winter months in Austria.

Both professional and beginner skiers love Arlberg as there are a range of runs here for all levels of ability and the main ski resort provides ski equipment and classes.

25 Best Things to Do in Austria:

• Visit the Hofburg
• Trek the Krimmler Ache
• Browse in Admont Abbey Library
• Watch a show at the Spanish Riding School
• Pay tribute to Mozart in Salzburg
• Explore the Eisriesenwelt
• Discover the Tomb of Emperor Maximilian I
• Marvel at Schlegeis Lake
• Learn some history at the Landeszeughaus
• Enjoy the serenity of Melk Abbey
• Hike the Kitzbüheler Horn
• Take a cable car to the Hornköpfli
• Visit the Burg Hochosterwitz
• Go for a walk around Hallstatt
• Watch a performance at the National Theatre
• Visit the Church of Maria Saal
• Travel along the Grossglockner Road
• Admire Klosterneuburg Abbey
• Tour Gurk Cathedral
• Enjoy the views at the Franz-Josefs-Höhe
• Climb Grossglockner
• Alpenzoo Innsbruck-Tyrol
• Go skiing in Arlberg

The Amazing Traveler

10 Best Places to Visit in Austria (By a Local)

The ultimate guide to Austria – a country that attracts more tourists than Greece, despite not having islands and beaches.

This guide covers cities and essential places to visit, along with alternative and lesser-known destinations, as suggested by a local expert. It includes the best things to do in Austria, travel tips, and insider advice.

Though Austria may be modest in size, it is a year-round paradise. The majestic Alps in the west with world-class ski resorts and alpine trails, while the east presents historic cities.

The country’s cities are a fusion of history and culture. Vienna, the capital, dazzles with imperial elegance and contemporary art. Salzburg, known for its baroque architecture, resonates with the music of its native son, Mozart. Graz and Innsbruck each bring their unique character to Austria’s urban landscape.

Austria’s deep-rooted history is evident in its castles, abbeys, and historic towns, where ancient traditions meet modern life. The culinary scene is a feast for the senses, from alpine comfort food to refined Viennese dishes, not forgetting the long-standing wine-making tradition in regions like Wachau and Burgenland.

This guide brings together personal recommendations for the best places to visit in Austria, including must-sees and hidden gems. These are places I’ve experienced and wholeheartedly suggest.

Currently featuring 10 destinations, this list is an ongoing project, growing as I continue to explore Austria.

When visiting Austria, spending at least a couple of days in Vienna, the country’s capital, is a must. This city, rich in arts, culture, and history, blends its imperial past with a modern pulse. 

In Vienna, you’ll find imperial palaces like the Hofburg Palace, the winter residence of the Habsburgs, nestled alongside modern art galleries and lively coffee houses. The Belvedere Palace has an impressive art collection, connecting visitors with the city’s grand history.

Winter in Vienna brings a special charm, with Christmas markets lighting up the city. The famous market in front of the City Hall turns into a hub of festive spirit, where you can warm up with hot drinks, try local snacks, and browse a variety of crafts. 

Beethoven, who spent considerable time here, has left a lasting imprint on the city’s musical scene. The State Opera House regularly hosts exceptional performances.

Art enthusiasts are drawn to the Museum of Art History, where you can see an extensive collection of masterpieces. If you’re a contemporary art lover, then MuseumsQuartier is a place for you.

Walking through Vienna, you’ll find the Naschmarkt, a market full of fresh produce and local cuisine. Also, Vienna has a variety of night-time activities , including illuminated landmarks and cultural events.

The Vienna Woods, with its vineyards and villages, is a great place for a quiet and relaxing getaway.

Salzburg, Austria’s fourth-biggest city, is the second most visited place in the country, with over 1 million tourists each year, just after Vienna.

This city is well-known for its beautiful old buildings and as the birthplace of the famous composer Mozart.

Salzburg is surrounded by amazing scenery, sitting at the edge of the Alps. The city is split by the Salzach River, with the old part of the city on one side and the newer part on the other.

Hohensalzburg Fortress, sitting high on a hill, is one of the largest old castles in Europe with great views of the city, the river, and the mountains.

The city is also famous for music and arts, especially the Salzburg Festival.

Walking around Salzburg, you’ll find lots of historic spots. The Getreidegasse is a narrow street with shops and the house where Mozart was born, which is now a museum.

For a quiet and nice place to walk, the Mirabell Palace and Gardens are perfect. These gardens, which were in the movie ‘The Sound of Music’, are really pretty and great for a relaxing walk.

If you’re visiting Austria in colder months make sure to check out these things you can do in Salzburg in winter as well as these day trips from Salzburg .

Innsbruck, often called the Jewel of the Austrian Alps, is the biggest resort city in the Alps. 

Located in western Austria, Innsbruck is surrounded by mountains, making it a perfect base for skiing, snowboarding, and hiking. The city itself is known for its imperial and modern architecture. 

One of the most iconic sights is the Golden Roof, a landmark in the Old Town with a roof made of copper tiles that shine like gold.

Innsbruck hosts various festivals and events throughout the year, exhibiting music, art, and local traditions. For those interested in history, there are several museums and historic sites, including Ambras Castle, which houses a collection of medieval art.

For a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding Alps, a trip to the Nordkette, a part of Austria’s largest nature park, is a must. 

You can take a cable car up the mountain for skiing, hiking, or just to enjoy the scenery.

Btw, just like from Salzburg, you can take many day trips from Innsbruck .

Often considered one of the most beautiful villages in the world, Hallstatt is even more mesmerizing in winter .

This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its 16th-century Alpine houses and Gothic churches, looks like a scene from a storybook when the snow falls. It’s also a great destination for a day trip from Salzburg and even you can get easy from Vienna to Hallstatt .

Located between the edge of Hallstätter See (Lake Hallstatt) and the towering Dachstein mountains, Hallstatt’s beauty is breathtaking. The village is small, which makes it perfect for exploring on foot. The charming, narrow streets are lined with traditional buildings, giving a sense of stepping back in time.

In winter, the snow-covered roofs and the frozen lake add a magical touch to the village. The crisp, clear air and the quiet atmosphere make it a peaceful place for visitors. Despite its small size, Hallstatt is packed with history. You can visit the Salt Mine, the oldest in the world, where you can learn about the village’s ancient salt mining history.

For a panoramic view of Hallstatt and its surroundings, the Skywalk “Welterbeblick” is a must-visit. This lookout platform sits 350 meters above the town is a great view on the lake and the Alps.

The second largest Austrian city, is not a typical winter destination, but it certainly has its own unique charm during the colder months. 

In the heart of the city is the historic Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike the snowy alpine towns, Graz in winter often has a milder climate, making it perfect for leisurely exploring the city’s streets and squares. The medieval buildings, Renaissance courtyards, and modern designs blend to create a fascinating urban landscape.

One of the city’s most notable landmarks is the Graz Clock Tower, located on Schlossberg, a hill overlooking the city. A walk or a funicular ride up to the top provides a great view of Graz’s rooftops and the surrounding areas.

Graz is also known for its museums and galleries. The Kunsthaus Graz, an art museum with a futuristic design, stands out for its contemporary exhibitions. For those interested in history and science, the Universalmuseum Joanneum has various collections.

During winter, Graz’s streets and public spaces light up with festive decorations, adding to the city’s lively atmosphere. The Christmas markets here are less crowded than in more popular destinations.

Zell am See

Situated in the heart of the Austrian Alps, is a town that becomes a true winter paradise every year.

Surrounded by mountains and perched on the edge of the crystal-clear Lake Zell, it’s a favorite spot for winter sports and those who love natural scenery.

In the winter months, Zell am See is a top destination for skiing. The local ski resort, Schmittenhöhe, has slopes for all levels of skiers and snowboarders, with amazing views of the Alps and the lake. Plus, the connection to the Kaprun ski area, including the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, means there’s plenty of snow throughout the season.

Beyond skiing, the town of Zell am See is a delight to explore. Its alpine architecture gives a warm, welcoming feel. Visitors enjoy walking through its streets, trying traditional Austrian dishes in cozy restaurants, and browsing in unique local shops.

A walk around Lake Zell is especially beautiful in winter. The snow-covered trees and mountains around the lake create a wonderful scene. For relaxation, there are wellness centers and spas in the area.

Zell am See also hosts various events and festivals in winter, bringing a lively atmosphere to the town. These range from traditional Christmas markets to music and winter sports events.

Kitzbühel is one of the world’s most famous ski resorts. This medieval town attracts skiing enthusiasts and visitors who want to experience a classic Alpine atmosphere.

The town is famous for hosting the annual Hahnenkamm, a challenging downhill ski race in the World Cup. Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels enjoy the wide range of slopes and top-notch ski facilities in Kitzbühel.

Beyond winter sports, exploring the town of Kitzbühel is a delight. Its colorful buildings and cobbled streets create a charming backdrop. 

Visitors can wander through the town, enjoy historic sights, and relax in cozy cafes and restaurants serving tasty local dishes.

Kitzbühel also has a variety of shops selling traditional Austrian clothing, modern fashion, and sports gear. 

Even for those who don’t ski, Kitzbühel in winter is a treat. The snowy landscape is perfect for walks, and the town has several wellness centers for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Seefeld, a charming Alpine town in Austria, is a top destination for winter sports, particularly known for its cross-country skiing. Set on a plateau above the Inn Valley, it is a perfect place for winter activities.

This town is a haven for cross-country skiers, with an extensive network of well-maintained trails. These trails cater to all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Seefeld also hosted the Nordic events during the Winter Olympics twice

Seefeld has a picturesque village center, where traditional Tyrolean architecture creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Here, visitors can stroll through the streets, enjoy local cuisine at various restaurants, and browse shops selling regional products and crafts.

Seefeld is also a great place for those looking to relax. The town is known for its wellness resorts and spas, with a range of treatments and therapies. During the winter months, Seefeld lights up with festive decorations, adding to its charm. The town often hosts winter events and markets, providing entertainment and a taste of local traditions.

Hoher Dachstein 

A striking peak in the Austrian Alps, is a must-visit for anyone who loves mountains and outdoor adventures. As one of the highest mountains in Austria, it is particularly captivating in winter.

This mountain is part of the Dachstein massif and attracts climbers, hikers, and skiers. In winter, the snow-covered landscape turns it into a picturesque setting for skiing and snowboarding. On the Dachstein Glacier you can ski even outside the traditional winter months.

The Dachstein Skywalk is a popular attraction here. This observation platform, hanging over a sheer drop, with breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and valleys. 

For those interested in ice caves, the Dachstein Ice Cave is a wonder to explore. These naturally formed ice caves have incredible formations.

Bad Ischl, named the European Capital of Culture for 2024, is a town that rightfully earns this recognition.

It’s a place in Austria’s Salzkammergut region, where culture, history, and natural beauty come together seamlessly.

Famous for its thermal springs, Bad Ischl has a long-standing reputation as a spa town. Today, its spas and wellness centers continue to draw visitors looking for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The town also has a rich historical background, especially noted for its connection to Emperor Franz Josef. The Imperial Villa, once the summer residence of the Emperor, now serves as a museum, showcasing the luxurious lifestyle of Austrian royalty.

Bad Ischl’s cultural life includes a variety of events, theaters, and galleries.

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30 Bucket List-Worthy Things to Do in Austria

Austria , Europe

I fell in love with Austria when my brother moved there and I can’t get enough of the culture (and food!). This list, compiled with help from other travel bloggers, includes all of my favorite things to do in Austria. Whether you’re hoping to enjoy the mountain scenery in what I consider to be one of the most beautiful towns in the world, attend shows at internationally renowned cultural institutions, tour an ornately decorated palace, or hit the slopes in the winter, I think you’ll fall in love with it too. And if the attractions don’t do it for you, the food and drink just might win you over. If you’re planning a visit and find yourself wondering what to do in Austria, look no further than this collection.

• 1.1 See a performance at the Vienna Opera House
• 1.2 Visit the alpine village of Hallstatt
• 1.3 Drive the scenic Grossglockner Road
• 1.4 Ski at one of Austria’s legendary resorts
• 1.5 See a performance at the Spanish Riding School
• 1.6 Get views high above Salzburg at Hohensalzburg Fortress
• 1.7 Sip glϋhwein at the Vienna Christmas markets
• 1.8 Explore Innsbruck’s historic old town
• 1.9 Attend the floating opera on Lake Constance
• 1.10 Tour elegant Schönbrunn Palace
• 2.1 See Spectacular artwork at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna
• 2.2 Get splashed in the trick fountains at Hellbrunn
• 2.3 Visit an art museum in a Baroque palace
• 2.4 See the sparkles at the Swarovski Crystal World museum
• 3.1 Bike Europe’s most popular cycling path
• 3.2 Kayak the Danube River
• 3.3 See sunrise from an alpine peak
• 4.1 Sip coffee at a traditional Viennese café
• 4.2 Stuff yourself with wiener schnitzel in Vienna
• 4.3 Indulge your sweet tooth with famous Sacher torte
• 4.4 Sip beer brewed by monks in a monastery
• 4.5 Visit vineyards along the South Styrian Wine Road
• 5.1 Try an Austrian spa at Rogner Bad Blumau
• 5.2 Visit Sound of Music filming locations
• 5.3 Ride Vienna’s famous Riesenrad ferris wheel
• 5.4 Enjoy the stunning views from Stubnerkogel
• 5.5 Enjoy the views from the top of The Untersberg
• 5.6 Visit Austria’s smallest town
• 5.7 Tour one of the most beautiful libraries in the world
• 5.8 Shop for traditional trachten

Top ten things to do in Austria

I picked this group from all of the categories to represent the top things to do in Austria. The top ten includes famous palaces, cultural institutions, skiing at some of the most iconic Austrian resorts, and some of the country’s incredible scenery.

See a performance at the Vienna Opera House

Photo by Elizabeth from The Fearless Foreigner

Visiting the Wiener Staatsoper, the Vienna Opera House is a must when spending time in Austria. It is one of the most opulent and famous opera houses in the world. The best way to experience the theater is to see a performance.

Every year you can choose from more than 60 operas and ballets. Make sure to arrive early to take in the grand staircase and impressive interiors throughout the entire building. I have been to a lot of theaters and opera houses around the world, but this one had the most well-dressed audience. The elegantly attired audience along with the decor of the theater and the quality of the ballet performance we saw created a night to remember.

Be careful buying seats on the sides of the theater as it can be difficult to see the stage. If you really want to see and not just hear what is happening, buy tickets on the ground floor or the center sections of the balconies. You can sometimes buy very cheap standing room tickets for only 3 euros! If you haven’t been to an opera before, be advised that they are long and will seem even longer if you are standing.

If tickets to a performance are out of your price range or not available during your visit to Vienna, you can take a guided tour. In addition to the beautiful theater you will also get a behind the scenes look at what goes on to produce each production. You will learn more about the history and architecture of the theater as well.

Another way to see a production is to attend one of the live screenings outside of the theater. A large screen is attached to the building and broadcasts the performance that is currently going on in the theater.

However you visit the Vienna Opera House, you won’t regret it!

By Elizabeth from The Fearless Foreigner  

Visit the alpine village of Hallstatt

Visiting Hallstatt is one of the top things to do in Austria. Just look at that view!

Hallstatt is one of the most picturesque alpine villages that you’ll ever come across and one of the best places to visit in Austria. Set alongside a lake in the Alps not far from Salzburg, this historic town is absolutely dreamy. Houses and other buildings were built up the side of the mountain making it uniquely beautiful – be sure to spend some time exploring the staircase passages between some of them. During the summer, you can take boats out on the lake or even take a chilly swim. Or, just hole up at one of the lakeside cafes and take in the view.

For a cool bit of history, you can tour the centuries-old salt mine that once drove the town’s economy. As a bonus, you’ll have stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains from an observation deck at the top before or after you take your tour. We loved exploring the mine and sliding down the wooden slides that were used to travel to lower levels. There are also ice caves just outside of Hallstatt that can be visited using a local bus route.

Drive the scenic Grossglockner Road

Photo by Fiona from Passport and Piano

The Grossglockner is the highest mountain in Austria and one of the largest in the Alps. The easiest way to get to the top is to drive one of the world’s most spectacular roads. For any driving enthusiast, the 36 challenging hairpin bends are a dream. There is a hefty toll fee, but it’s well maintained, and the smooth tarmac makes for enjoyable driving.

The route is only 30 miles long but as it winds its way up the mountain and through Hohe Tauern National Park, the views get more and more magnificent. For passengers, the ever-changing landscape of meadow flowers, rocky cliff faces, lakes and glaciers means that there’s never a dull moment. The road was completed in 1935 and was built along the old mountain pass between Bruck and Heiligenblut. Today, the tollbooth is located at Ferleiten near Fusch and if you want to avoid the tourists it’s best to arrive early in the morning.

By early, I mean 6 am, particularly if you don’t want to get stuck behind camera enthusiasts and slow drivers. That is of course if you’re here to spin your wheels and take a drive of a lifetime. The highest point of the route is Hochtor, which is 2,505 meters above sea level.  Here there is a tunnel which is a whopping 1.5 miles long.

There are many lookouts along the way, including the Swarovski tower, which is a viewing platform made from glass and has the latest optical equipment to view the spectacular alpine landscape. The Edelweissspitze viewing tower has 360-degree panoramic views, and the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe overlook has a tourist deck with fabulous views across the Grossglockner and Pasterze Glacier.

By Fiona from Passport and Piano  

Ski at one of Austria’s legendary resorts

The Austrian Alps are home to some of the best skiing in Europe and you’ll find resorts throughout the mountains. If you find yourself wondering what to do in Austria in the winter, zooming down one of its famous runs should be high on the list. Skiing in Austria has a long history, and it’s no surprise that the country has won more Olympic alpine skiing medals than any other country in the world. Of course, you don’t have to be a world class skier (or snowboarder) to hit the slopes here – I certainly wasn’t when I skied at Hinterstoder – as you’ll find runs suitable to all skill levels at the different resorts.

Advanced skiers will drool over the legendary St. Anton am Arlberg with its expert terrain and moguls. For a more family oriented resort (with just as much charm for non-skiers) try Kitzbühel located between Salzburg and Innsbruck. Sölden , also located near Innsbruck, is great for all skill levels and was also used as a filming location in a James Bond movie. Mayrhofen is great for snowboarders with a dedicated lift and kids area in addition to their massive snow fields. For picturesque views, it’s hard to top Zell am See ‘s lake views, and for visitors looking for evening activity, its famous après-ski scene is just as memorable. Wherever you end up, you’ll enjoy incredible runs and views that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

See a performance at the Spanish Riding School

Photo by David Mark on Pixabay

Despite its name, the Spanish Riding School is located in Vienna, and it also happens to be one of the top classical riding institutions in the world. Originally, performances were only presented for guests of the court, but these days you don’t have to be a royal bigwig to attend one – all you’ll need is a ticket ( pre-book as early as possible because they do sell out!). During shows in the historic arena, all stages of the training the Lipizzaner horses undergo are demonstrated, from the early stages with a young stallion to an intricate performance including eight riders and their horses and a variety of choreographed maneuvers with a background of classical music. If you can’t snag a ticket for a performance, morning exercises can also be attended for a lower cost. Both are held in the Hofburg, right in the heart of Vienna, so the venue is easy to access on foot or via public transportation. The elegant performance is consistently ranked as one of the top things to see in Austria and

Get views high above Salzburg at Hohensalzburg Fortress

One of the most recognizable buildings in Salzburg, Fortress Hohensalzburg towers above the city atop a hill. The white ramparts are beautiful against the surrounding mountains, but the views from the top for those who take the funicular for a visit are even better. While touring the historic fortress, you can learn about its construction and the way it evolved over the years, visit ornately decorated rooms, and see some medieval torture tools. There is also a restaurant at the top and concerts are frequently performed in the evenings. While there, don’t skip the balcony overlooking Salzburg as it’ll give you a fantastic view of the historic old town below you, the river running through Salzach, and the mountains in the distance. It’s especially beautiful in the winter when snow covers everything with fluffy white.

Sip glϋhwein at the Vienna Christmas markets

Vienna is absolutely magical at Christmas, with the city decorated with garlands and twinkling lights. It’s one of the top destinations for Christmas markets, and is home to my favorite out of the ones we’ve hit. There are several scattered throughout the city, but the one I fell in love with was in front of the Vienna Rathaus . With rows and rows of booths full of merchandise, vendors selling delicious street food, and enough glϋhwein (hot spiced wine) to keep you toasty warm and maybe a little bit buzzed, it’s sure to be a highlight of any winter visit. We also loved the ice skating rink at the market with its winding, ice-covered pathways that you could zoom down being much more fun than your typical open skate experience where you just sort of mill around in a circle. The Christmas market typically begins in mid-November and runs to just after Christmas.

Explore Innsbruck’s historic old town

Photo by Jacqueline Macou on Pixabay

With its location in the Alps, Innsbruck is one of the most beautiful cities in Austria. With its imperial architecture and historic sites with mountain peaks as backdrops, it’s hard to imagine a more picturesque historic area. Take some time to wander the streets and appreciate the pastel painted medieval houses found in the area. Another top tourist attraction is the Golden Balcony, which was originally constructed as a royal box for the emperor to view tournaments below. Nowadays, the view from the balcony would be of bustling shops and tourists taking selfies, though I suppose that could be equally entertaining. If you’re looking for a more active visit, you can hit the surrounding slopes – in summer, there are miles and miles of hiking trails to check out and in winter the ski resorts come to life and offer world-class skiing.

Attend the floating opera on Lake Constance

Photo by Kathi220664 on Pixabay

In the western-most state of Austria, Vorarlberg is the home of the famous town of Bregenz. This small but unique town is located on the shore of Lake Constance, where it borders neighbors of Germany and Switzerland.

Bregenz is famous for its Bregenzer Festspiele – a summer music festival that takes place on the floating lake stage at Lake Constance. Each year, talented artists design and construct the colorful themed stage Seebühne. It becomes the backdrop for this festival, as well as other performances and operas.

In 2008, the Bregenz floating stage made it into a James Bond movie, Quantum of Solace. Since then, flocks of visitors have made a pilgrimage to Bregenz each year, mostly to check out the festival and the stage. World-class acts perform on this stage every year: from Puccini’s Turandot, to Rigoletto and Carmen. Definitely a sight to see!

Bregenz itself is a cute, laid-back little town with some other attractions to check out. For foodies that are looking for great Austrian cuisine , the Vorarlberg State is famous for its traditional Vorarlberg Käsknöpfle (egg pasta with cheese and roasted onion). You simply have to try it!

By Halef and Michael from The Round the World Guys

Tour elegant Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace is perhaps the grandest in Vienna. Though it began as a hunting lodge, it was transformed over the years by the Habsburg rulers into a majestic palace. Your visit inside Schönbrunn will take you through several of the ornately decorated rooms, and highlights two of its most famous residents – Empress Maria Theresa and Empress Elizabeth “Sisi.” I particularly enjoyed learning about Sisi and seeing her gymnastic equipment in one area. Some rooms are decorated as they appeared in the lifetimes of both women. Outside the palace, don’t miss the formal gardens full of mazes, flowers, fountains, and statues. They’re even free to visit. If you have time, check out the Gloriette where you can have lunch in the café overlooking the palace.

Palaces and Museums in Austria

It’s no surprise that Austria has its share of palaces and art museums – and some of the attractions on this section of best places to visit in Austria double as both! Whether you’re looking for stately gardens, impressive galleries, or a dose of water-based fun check out these top spots to visit.

See Spectacular artwork at the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna

Photo by Loredana from Earth’s Attractions

Vienna has many wonderful museums and one of my favorites is The Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna (the Museum of Art History). Here you will be able to admire amazing paintings by famous artists (they are grouped by category and, trust me, you won’t realize how time flies when you are in the galleries.) The Picture Gallery is my favorite – you can admire works by Rembrandt, Raphael, Caravaggio, Velázquez, Italian Baroque painters, and more. I admit, this gallery is the reason why I consider this museum to be one of the best places to visit in Vienna .

The museum also has an impressive coin collection, as well as one with Greek and Roman antiquities, one focusing on historic musical instruments – and there are a few more exhibitions that will leave you in awe.

They also have temporary exhibitions – you can check their website  to see what is the current one and what will be featured next.

The museum is easily accessible and you get a discount for the tickets if you have the Vienna pass. As The Kunsthistorisches Museum is home to numerous and diverse exhibitions, I’d recommend you to book one day for visiting it thoroughly. You’ll feel energized after visiting it and admiring the treasures exhibited here. The building itself is also worthy to be observed – and admired. The Kunsthistorisches Museum should definitely be on your Austria bucket list!

By Loredana from Earth’s Attractions

Get splashed in the trick fountains at Hellbrunn

My favorite palace in all of Europe is Schloss Hellbrunn in Salzburg. The building itself is smaller and less ornately decorated than some, but the gardens in back are the real attraction. They were constructed by a prankster who wanted to be able to secretly squirt his guests with a variety of hidden water jets. Whereas most European castle gardens are somewhat reserved as visitors wander through stately hedges and flowers, the Hellbrunn gardens are filled with kids and adults alike squealing in delight as they come across a new trick fountain.

Our tour started off at a dining table where the Prince-Archbishop would entertain his sophisticated guests before having the fountains douse them with water. It had to be even funnier to see the fancy ladies in their dresses than the tourists in shorts and t-shirts who visit nowadays. There are plenty of other fountains with hidden grottos that seem to trap you behind a waterfall to jets that arch over the sidewalk to an ornately carved wooden “theater” that is operated completely by the flow of water. Hellbrunn is best visited in hot weather and closes for the winter. Be sure to wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and have something waterproof to store your electronics and anything else you don’t want to get wet.

Visit an art museum in a Baroque palace

Photo by Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab

Flecked with gold, The Kiss by Gustav Klimt steals the show at the Belvedere Art Museum in Vienna. But the building complex itself is a work of art: a combination of Baroque palaces set in sprawling garden grounds right in the heart of the city. Built during the height of Vienna’s Imperial success as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, the grounds feature cascading fountains and regal walkways as well as an Orangery and stables.

The palaces form the Upper and Lower Belvedere are now art museums with ornate gates and grand white staircases. The Baroque state rooms – the Golden Room, Marble Gallery and the Hall of Grotesques – remain open to the public in their original form following reconstruction work after the bombing of World War Two.

As you’d expect, the Belvedere is popular and it pays to plan your visit in advance and arrive early to beat the crowds. It’s received a boost following the (somewhat unflattering) appearance in the movie The Woman in Gold, which stars Helen Mirren. The film traces the true story of one woman’s efforts to retrieve a family-owned work by Gustav Klimt, stolen by the Nazis and eventually hung at the Belvedere. The museum café returns to happier times, with a chance to taste traditional Austrian food in between taking in some of the best art in the world.

By Abigail from Inside the Travel Lab

See the sparkles at the Swarovski Crystal World museum

Photo by Janine from Fill My Passport

Those Swarovski crystals in the shop window sparkle and leave you intrigued to check them out. With a huge collection spanning animals, birds, and now pop culture characters from Disney and elsewhere, the Swarovski name has truly become household with millions having at least one on display at home. But where do they come from?

Outside Innsbruck, the Swarovski Museum is a sight to be seen on any Austria trip. The artistic fountain of a man made of green starts your quirky experience before you head inside to delve into some of the wackiest exhibits you will ever witness. Take glittery photos, marvel at the largest crystal in the world, and then browse the exclusive shop for limited edition pieces, jewels, and accessories to cap off your visit. If you love quirky expressions of art, cultural intrigue, and some indulgent, yet deserving shopping, the Swarovski Museum really is for you.

By Janine from Fill My Passport  

Active thing to do in Austria

Austria’s spectacular scenery makes it a top destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With endless hiking trails, miles and miles of rivers, and some of the most challenging ski terrain in the world, if you like to get out to nature you’ll love these things to do in Austria.

Bike Europe’s most popular cycling path

Photo by Amanda from A Dangerous Business

What do you get when you combine bikes, the second-longest river in Europe, and adorable riverside towns? You get the Danube Cycle Path, the most popular biking path in all of Europe.

The Danube Cycle Path is a developed bike path that runs along the Danube River for its entire length, from where it starts in Donaueschingen, Germany to where it empties out into the Black Sea 2,860 kilometers later. The most popular section of the path for people to ride is the 340 km from Passau, Germany to Vienna, Austria, which can take anywhere from 3 to 7 days.

But you don’t have to tackle the bike path for multiple days – you can also enjoy a more leisurely ride for just a morning or afternoon, which is exactly what I did in Austria.

While on an active river cruise on the Danube, I spent one morning biking 19 kilometers of the Danube Cycle Path between the towns of Krems and Spitz. This section of the path traverses through the UNESCO-recognized Wachau Valley, which has you pedaling past vineyards and tiny Austrian villages. A highlight was stopping in the riverside town of Dürnstein to see its famous blue church.

This part of the Cycle Path only took a couple of hours, but it definitely piqued my interest in doing a longer section of it sometime. The Danube Cycle Path is well-maintained, safe, and suitable for just about any type of cyclist – which is probably why it’s the most popular bike path in Europe!

By Amanda from A Dangerous Business

Kayak the Danube River

Photo by Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker

Traversing Austria by river is one phenomenal way to get around. Yes, you can take a river cruise in comfort and see the sights, but if cruising is not your thing, you can actually DIY it. Trust me, I’m a paddler!

The Danube River is the second-longest river in Europe. It passes through/beside 10 countries, and Austria is the second one after Germany. The Danube is already a fully-developed river by the time it reaches Austria at the border in Engelhartzell. By the time it reaches the border with Slovakia, you’ll be a very skillful paddler. That’s what makes it adventurous, but without the very high fear-factor.

Along the river, you’ll find a lot of natural beauty and an absurd amount of castles, abbeys, natural backdrops, one UNESCO site, foodie spots, industrial areas, and historic places. In order of appearance from upstream to downstream: Engelszell Abbey, the Schlögener Loop (Schlögener Schlinge), Linz city, Greinburg castle, Donauwörth island, Weitenegg castle ruins, Melk abbey, Schönbühel castle, Wachau Valley (the UNESCO site) and its apricots (Marillen), Zwentendorf nuclear power plant (“the safest nuclear power plant in the world”), the old Roman frontier fortifications in Tulln, Vienna and its airport, Danube-Auen national park (Nationalpark Donau-Auen), and Hainburg. After Hainburg, Austria passes the Danubian torch to Slovakia.

The best thing about paddling the Danube in Austria is that you can proverbially hitchhike the infrastructure built for the Danube Bike Path (Donauradweg); there are many hotels, pensions, and campsites built for the cyclists that are close enough to the shores to be useful to you. On certain stretches, you can rent a kayak or canoe, but on others, you’ll need to bring your own. I’m currently paddling it downstream in an inflatable canoe.

By Iris from Mind of a Hitchhiker

See sunrise from an alpine peak

Photo by Suzanne from The Travelbunny

Seeing the sunrise from the peak of Wiedersbergerhorn mountain in Alpbach was a very special moment during my recent visit to Austria. It was a 4 a.m. start but worth every minute of lost sleep, and I don’t say that lightly because I am definitely not a morning person. We were up and out of the hotel while it was still dark and rode the Wierdersbergerhorn gondola, alighting at the second station. We were greeted by the soft hum of Alpine horns floating on the night air and a lone cow who was curious to see what was going on.

Glad of my warm fleece, we started the 45-minute uphill hike to the top of Wiedersbergerhorn, our breath clouding the chilly morning air. The sky was gradually lightening. I checked the horizon every few minutes as we climbed and could see a widening ribbon of gold behind the rugged peaks of the Wilder Kaiser mountains in the east. We traversed our way up the mountain and reached the peak just as the sun tipped over the distant mountain range.

All around us the valleys, rolling hills and mountains emerged from the darkness bathed in a warm golden light. It was my first sight of Austria’s dramatic mountainscape and is an experience I recommend and will treasure for a long time to come.

Read more about summer in Albach and the sunrise mountain hike on Suzanne’s blog.

By Suzanne from The Travelbunny

Foods and drinks to try in Austria

One of the joys of traveling is trying the food and drink wherever you find yourself. I absolutely fell in love with Austrian cuisine on my visits there and love how hearty and delicious it is. These are some of the most famous foods and drinks that you’ll find here and should absolutely be on your list if you visit Austria.

Sip coffee at a traditional Viennese café

Photo by Kenny from Knycx Journeying

I was visiting Vienna last Christmas and I had an amazing experience in its Christmas market tasting local food, drinking eggnogs, and viewing local handicrafts. Apart from the Christmas markets, I had an enjoyable time during the day in the Viennese coffee houses.

Many local Viennese enjoy their unique coffee culture sitting in a coffee house with a cup of coffee the entire afternoon. Traditional Viennese coffee is made by two shots of espresso into whipped cream and syrup, topped off with cocoa sprinkles. However, you will find that there are more than 20 kinds of coffee on the menu with different levels of milk and alcohol mix – Melange coffee is a mixture of coffee with hot milk; Einspänner Coffee is an espresso topped with whipped cream; Eiskaffee adds vanilla ice-cream to coffee.

If you are looking for something extra, try a slice of classic Sachertorte (a well-known Austrian chocolate cake) with your coffee, the sweetness and bitterness complement each other perfectly; or have a full breakfast Viennese-style. Historic coffee houses are located everywhere in Vienna. Recommended places include Café Central, Café Sperl, Café Museum, Café Mozart, or Café Hawelka. Many of them used to serve famous musicians and public figures. Imagine what it would be like when Mozart was sitting in one of the cafes while you learn about the cafe’s history and admire their beautiful décor, chandeliers, and furniture. It will enrich your day in Vienna.

By Kenny from Knycx Journeying

Stuff yourself with wiener schnitzel in Vienna

I want to go back and eat this schnitzel all over again.

One of Austria’s most famous dishes, wiener schnitzel is a must-try for visitors whether or not they consider themselves foodies. Named after Vienna (Wien in German), traditional schnitzel is made of veal cutlets that are pounded until very thin. The meat is then breaded and pan fried in butter until it has a perfect crispy coating. If veal isn’t your thing, you’ll also find schnitzels made of pretty much any other meat, but the traditional is so delicious it’s definitely worth a try. Wiener schnitzel can be found throughout Austria, but its namesake city is the ideal place to find it. Some of the top rated schnitzel restaurants include Skopik & Lohn , Café Dommayer , and Figlmüller (very close to St. Stephen’s Cathedral). We also had some fantastic, plate-overflowing schnitzel at the beer garden, Schweizerhaus , at Prater Park. Of course, if you aren’t visiting Vienna on your trip, you’ll find wiener schnitzel at restaurants throughout the country.,

Indulge your sweet tooth with famous Sacher torte

Photo by Stefanie Laubscher on Pixabay

Growing up in Germany, my aunt would always treat us to a delicious Sacher Torte (a rich dark chocolate cake) at various family gatherings and it always was my favorite. So when I went to Vienna, my number one bucket list item was to eat a piece of Sacher Torte in the Hotel Sacher Cafe, where the famous cake was invented. Hotel Sacher is the number 1 luxury hotel in Vienna. The opulent design will make you feel like royalty instantly. After all, Queen Elizabeth and JFK stayed there. Unfortunately, I was a broke college student at the time of my visit, so spending the night there was out of the question.

The next best thing was to eat their delicious cake at the Hotel Sacher Cafe. It was still a splurge, but even if the cake cost more than my dinner and the coffee more than a glass of wine, it was definitely worth the experience. Invented in 1832, this cake is a lasting success story. More than 360,000 pieces of Sacher Torte are sold each year at the Cafe. Treating yourself to this little luxury allows you to experience Vienna on a Champaign taste, even if you are on a beer budget.

By Maria from Europe Up Close  

Sip beer brewed by monks in a monastery

Photo by Amber from With Husband in Tow

Much like its neighbors to the North, Germany and the Czech Republic, Austria produces a wide range of outstanding beers. Experiencing Austrian beer is a must when traveling around the country. For a truly unique Austrian beer experience, travel to Engelhartszell an der Donau in Upper Austria. On the banks of the Danube sits Engelszell Abbey. It is home to a small contingent of Trappist monks who brew their own beer. Founded in the 1290s, Engelszell Abbey began life as a Cistercian monastery. Over the centuries, the Abbey witnessed the Protestant Reformation in Austria, which resulted in both financial and spiritual decline. Austrian Emperor Franz Joseph II dissolved the Abbey in 1786 leaving it to fall into ruin.

In the early 20th century, the Abbey was reborn as a Trappist monastery. The Trappist monks flourished until the Second World War when Nazi Germany annexed Austria. In 1939, 71 Trappist monks resided at Engelszell. During the Nazi occupation of Austria, several monks were sent to Dachau Concentration Camp for their religious beliefs. Other monks were imprisoned or forced to join the German army. At the end of the Second World War, only a third of the original 71 monks returned. Today, the monastery is home to only 4 monks. Self-sufficiency is a pillar of the Trappist monks.

To support themselves, the monks of Engelszell are one of 14 Trappist monasteries to brew beer. Trappist beer is one of the unique Austrian drinks to try and you can only get it in this small village on the Danube River. Along with beer, the monks of Engelszell distill their own schnapps. Tours of the abbey are available as well as the opportunity to purchase Trappist beer and schnapps along with other products made by the monks. For those who love history or love beer, a visit to Engelszell Abbey should be on your Austrian bucket list.

By Amber from With Husband in Tow

Visit vineyards along the South Styrian Wine Road

Photo by Lori from Travlinmad

In southern Austria lies the area of South Styria — the Green Heart of Austria — and the charming South Styrian Wine Road that runs through it. This part of Austria is just being discovered by Americans and even many Europeans. The 44 mile long route begins near Ehrenhausen and winds through quaint towns, through the rolling hills of the wine country, past scenic vineyards and inviting wine taverns until you reach the end of the loop near Leutschach. The route is easy to leisurely follow and we recommend renting a car to go at your own pace. The scenery is reminiscent of Tuscany with hillsides everywhere covered with bright green vineyards, small stands of trees and the orange-roofed buildings of farms and the wineries.

The region is famous for excellent dry white wines that are aromatic and crisp and some of the finest in Austria. If you go during the harvest you’ll find stürm being served at small farm stands along the route. It’s a fermented drink from the first pressing of grapes that is festive and high in alcohol. Look for small inns with a bundle of twigs above the entrance for something light to eat. These are called buschenshanks and only serve cold dishes and their own wine as the only thing to drink. You’ll also find formal restaurants called heurigers with full menus. For a special treat, plan to stop at the famous Heart Shaped Road that can be seen from the buschenshank, Dreisiebner Špičnik. To view the road you walk on a path through the vineyard to an overlook with a large statue and bench. You’re now on the border between Austria and Slovenia — a nice finishing touch to a day on the South Styria Wine Road.

By Lori from Travlinmad

Other top cultural things to do in Austria

This is the miscellaneous category of things to do in Austria. From scenic views to shopping for traditional Austrian garments to historic sites and gorgeous libraries, just because this category is the catch-all doesn’t mean these activities should be skipped.

Try an Austrian spa at Rogner Bad Blumau

Photo by Carol from Wandering Carol

Austria has some terrific thermal spas , with pools fed by hot springs filled with natural salts and minerals. A place that combines art, funky architecture and top notch spa treatments is Rogner Bad Blumau , a holistic resort that might resemble something out of a crazy cartoon, but follows a serious holistic philosophy of ‘harmony with nature.’

Only 40 miles from Graz, and 80 from Vienna, this high-end spa resort with stunning indoor and outdoor pools is also popular with day visitors, who come here to soak, steam and wander the grounds through labyrinthine paths, past black-outlined buildings with bright accents, golden domes, peaked roofs, and walls that seem to merge seamlessly out of grass-covered slopes.

Designed by Friedensreich Hundertwasser, an artist, architect and passionate environmentalist, Rogner Bad Blumau is a unique and relaxing experience. A day pass costs between €45 and €54, depending on the day of the week, and the resort provides bathrobes and towels. Driving is quickest, but if you’re taking the train, get off at Bad Blumau Station, and take the free shuttle from there.

By Carol from Wandering Carol

Visit Sound of Music filming locations

The Sound of Music is probably the most famous film set in Austria for American audiences. Some of the scenes were shot on site in the Salzburg area and a variety of guided tours will take you for a visit, or you can visit all or some of the sights on your own. Right in the heart of Salzburg, you’ll find Schloss Mirabell, whose gardens were used in one of the most iconic scenes in which Maria and the kids dance around the fountain. Near Hohensalzburg, Stift Nonnberg served as the convent that Maria began her journey in. Hellbrunn Palace in Salzburg was also used for some of the singing scenes. Schloss Leopoldskron is now a hotel, and was depicted as the family’s residence in the film. Outside of Salzburg, there are two other filming locations, each 20-40 minutes from the city center. In Mondsee, you’ll find the basilica used for the wedding scene – and you’ll probably want to stick around to enjoy the gorgeous alpine lake if you traveled independently. On a nearby lake, St. Gilgan was used for the movie’s opening scene. Guided tours last about half a day and include all of your transportation – you’ll even get to listen to the movie’s soundtrack on the bus. Another Salzburg spot Sound of Music fans will enjoy is the catacombs right outside the Hohensalzburg funicular. These inspired the scene in which the family hides from the Nazis, though the actual filming was done in a replica set constructed in a soundstage. Despite the fact that the cameras weren’t there, you’ll definitely still recognize the cemetery.

Ride Vienna’s famous Riesenrad ferris wheel

One of my favorite spots in Vienna, Prater Park is a little amusement park right inside the city. Its centerpiece is the Riesenrad , an historic ferris wheel that draws long lines of tourists eager to take in the views of the city from the top. The wheel was the tallest in the world at the time it was built and was somewhat of a marvel of engineering for that day. It’s become a symbol of Vienna and you can still go for a ride. If you have the budget, you can even book a reserved dining car in which you’ll be served dinner right on the ferris wheel.

If you’re just planning to take a normal ride, you’ll join the queue and board one of the cars when it’s your turn. These wooden cars hold groups of people and you stand up inside, unlike carnival-style ferris wheels that have seats for only a couple per car. Because of its size and the way it loads, your trip around includes only one rotation, but you’ll be stopped for a couple minutes at a time as other cars load. This means that everyone on the cars should have a chance to enjoy the views whenever you’re stopped. Around the Riesenrad, you’ll find other amusement park rides, including a small roller coaster, food, and shops.

Enjoy the stunning views from Stubnerkogel

Photo courtesy of Alexander from Destinavo

Stubnerkogel is a legendary mountain when it comes to skiing, and it attracts many tourists every single year who come to enjoy the slopes. But it’s not all about skiing here; Stubnerkogel is also home to an impressive 140-meter-long suspension bridge, which attracts visitors as well. And the views from the bridge are truly stunning, overlooking the landscapes and a view of the highest mountain in Austria – the Grossglockner, which has a height of 3798 meters above sea level.

To get up to the top of Stubnerkogel, you can either walk or take the lift, which is recommended if you want to save time and energy. It’s generally better to preserve your energy and use it to walk around at the top instead if you’re going to Austria during the summer season. As for the winter season, the ski lift is a must to get to the top.

There is also a fun center for kids, which makes it a great family destination as well. The Stubnerkogel fun center has an area of 250m² and offers lots of various entertainment for the whole family.

The best way to get to Stubnerkogel is to rent a car or drive your own, but visitors can also come here by bus or shuttle from Bad Gastein, which is the closest ski town from Stubnerkogel. Another option is to take the train, from which you just have a few minutes’ walk to the ski lift.

At the top, visitors can also dine in a restaurant that has a beautiful view and traditional food from Austria.

By Alexander from Destinavo  

Enjoy the views from the top of The Untersberg

Photo by Jules from Part-Time Passport

If you’re travelling to Salzburg and are lucky enough to get a clear day, then a trip to the top of The Untersberg might just be the highlight of your whole vacation. Just a short 40-minute bus ride away (take the number 25 from Salzburg city center) and a rather stomach-lurching 10-minute cable ride up the side of a mountain will bring you to the summit of the majestic Untersberg. From here, you’ll be rewarded with the most incredible panoramic views of the Northern Alps and sprawling mountain valleys below. Remember to layer up because it’s seriously chilly at the top!

There’s a restaurant at the cable car center where you can warm up with a hot chocolate, or grab a local beer from one of the mountain-top bars with unbeatable views. Or, if you’re looking for something more adventurous, there are plenty of high-adrenaline activities on offer, depending on the time of year – from skiing, hiking, ice cave tours and even paragliding.

A round trip on the cable car costs €25 therefore it’s definitely worth purchasing a 24 hour Salzburg Card for €29, as this covers your cable car ride, as well as your bus fare, and admission to most other attractions in the city. However you choose to spend your time at the Untersberg, this is one bucket list adventure that’s not to missed on a trip to Austria.

By Jules from Part-Time Passport  

Visit Austria’s smallest town

Photo by Helene from Masala Herb

Rattenberg is a medieval city in the region of Tyrol, situated between Innsbruck and Salzburg. Rattenberg is known as the smallest city in Austria with only 400 inhabitants and is well known for its glass art and setting next to the River Inn. Colorful buildings stand in a row, with boutiques selling handmade specialties from the region. Discover the chapel in the cave, the castle ruins on top of the town, the old monastery museum and watch how glass is made and shaped. You can hire a cycle too and go for a ride to the nearby village of Kramsach with its massive outdoor farmhouse museum or the original museum cemetery. The city makes a great base to explore other places nearby such as the beautiful Alpbachtal or the Tiefenbachklamm gorge.

The charming town of Rattenberg hosts the annual medieval feast there with people coming from afar to take part in the fun festivities. The Christmas market in Rattenberg is one of a kind as well due to the setting and unique little stalls. You will find great gifts from the region for your loved ones back at home. Rattenberg is for all those who seek the original, untainted cultural experience of the region and should be on your bucket list if you want to explore Austria’s hidden gems.

By Helene from Masala Herb

Tour one of the most beautiful libraries in the world

Kremsmϋnster Abbey , located in a small town between Salzburg and Linz, should be high on the list of things to do in Austria for book fans and library enthusiasts. This historic abbey which also includes a gorgeous church and a restaurant that served up some of the best food we had in Austria on both of our visits is home to one of the most beautiful libraries in the world. Visitors can take a guided tour to see the lobby with an extra special twist – you enter through a bookshelf door. The décor is beautiful and as a map-lover, I was enthralled by the enormous globes on display. I would’ve loved to sit there all day with a good book. While there, you can also take a different tour of their “skyscraper” full of scientific specimens that leads you out to an observation deck on the roof.

Shop for traditional trachten

Photo courtesy of Karen from Wanderlusting K

One of the most unique experiences to have in Austria is to buy trachten.  Trachten is the name for traditional Austrian clothing worn by men, women, and clothing. You’ll often see trachten at festivals, however within small towns (such as Enns!), you’ll see older people wearing trachten as they go about their errands. Austrians are incredibly happy to see tourists and others wearing a proper pair of trachten. I encourage you to visit an appropriate store to buy a pair. Generally stores specializing in trachten have a related term in the name (e.g. Tracht). However, I warn you that this can be quite pricey. For a great experience, look for a secondhand clothing store to browse. I was able to visit a small secondhand shop specializing in women’s clothing, which was full of beautiful trachten. It was a fantastic experience having the shop owner and the fellow customers rate my various dirndls/recommend small additions to improve the budget. Trachten can be quite pricey (a good set can cost more than 200 euros), so don’t be afraid to check the quality before purchasing. Many tourists make the mistake of buying dirndls with cheaper material and that are too short to be appropriate, so check for organic materials and look carefully at the length!

By Karen from Wanderlusting K

If you loved this bucket list of things to do in Austria, check out these other guides:

• How to Spend One Day in Salzburg
• Get the Best Views of Salzburg at Hohensalzburg Fortress
• The Hellbrunn Palace Trick Fountains are the Most Fun You’ll Have in Salzburg
• Skiing in the Alps at Hinterstoder, Austria
• Your Guide to the Best Vienna Christmas Market

Don’t forget to save this post about the best places to visit in Austria for later on Pinterest!

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23 Most Beautiful Places in Austria - A Local’s Guide

Are you looking for the most beautiful places in Austria? Then you are not alone. 

Austria is a stunning country in Central Europe, full of scenic mountains, picturesque vineyards, and some of the most beautiful cities in the world. However, there are quite a few hidden gems in Austria that only locals know about. 

Lucky for you, I lived the first 27 years of my life in Austria. To help you make the most out of your vacation, I have created this ultimate guide featuring the 23 most beautiful places to visit in Austria. When you’re finished, I think you will agree this European country is worth visiting!

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

Best Places to Visit in Austria

1. hallstatt.

Hallstatt is the picture-perfect village that has become a major tourist attraction in the last 20 years. This is not a hidden gem – it is one of the most famous beautiful places in Austria – for good reason.

Hallstatt is a dreamy village stuck between a lake and impressive mountains in Austria’s Salzkammergut region. 

It’s famous for its charming wooden houses from medieval times, salt mines, and stunning views of Lake Hallstatt. Especially in  winter, Hallstatt  is scenic with its snow-covered roofs and Christmas markets.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site needs to be on everyone’s Austria Bucket List. 

2. Grüner See in Tragöß

Grüner See, or Green Lake, in Tragöss, Styria is one of the largest natural wonders in Austria. 

In spring, snowmelt fills the lake and gives it an amazing emerald-green color. The lake is nestled between impressive mountains, which create a gorgeous backdrop.

This is a popular destination for diving because the water is incredibly clear. You can swim down for about 150 feet, and sometimes you can even see the park benches underwater that get flooded every year.

Sadly, swimming is not allowed to protect its unique ecosystem. However, it is a great place for a walk.

3. Wachau Valley 

The Wachau Valley is a stretch of land along the Danube River. It is located between the stunning towns of Melk and Krems. 

The Wachau Valley is famous for its vineyards, cute villages, and medieval ruins. And, of course, it is one of Austria’s most beloved wine regions .

Also, they harvest many apricots every year, which is somewhat of a local treasure. The most beautiful time to visit is when the apricot trees bloom in spring. 

You can take a river cruise or bike along the Danube for some stunning views. 

The region is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, so it’s a big deal in terms of history and culture.

4. Olpererhütte

Olpererhütte is a mountain hut in Austria’s Zillertal Alps, and it’s become a big deal on Instagram. 

Why? There’s a super photogenic suspension bridge near the hut, with the surrounding mountains making for an Insta-perfect background. 

It is one of the most beautiful places in Austria that people hike up to for those idyllic pictures.

5. Zell am See

Zell am See is a famous Austrian resort town in Austria’s Salzburg state.

It is a great alternative to the busy town of Hallstatt because it is also surrounded by mountains and a beautiful lake, Lake Zell.

Zell am See is a hot spot for outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and boating. There are also some stunning slopes in the area.

The town also has a cute pedestrian zone filled with cafes and shops, perfect for a stroll.

If you are into wellness, make sure to check out the famous Austrian Tauern Spa in Kaprun near Zell am See.

Whether it’s winter or summer, Zell am See is always stunning. Personally, I found it best in the winter months. 

6. Bad Gastein

Bad Gastein is one of the most beautiful places in Austria. It is famous because it is a mixture of spa town and mountain getaway. 

Located high up in the Austrian Alps, Bad Gastein is known for its thermal baths and stunning architecture. It also has great historical significance as it dates to Imperial times in Austria.

The most beautiful spot is a waterfall right in the center of town. 

Bad Gastein is pretty luxe, so it’s a great spot for luxury travelers. But it is also close to ski slopes, so winter sports fans will love it as well.

7. Vienna State Opera

Vienna is home to stunning baroque architecture that includes Schönbrunn Palace and Belvedere Palace , but it also has one of the world’s leading opera houses – The Vienna State Opera.

It is located right in the Vienna city center. The best way to photograph it from the outside is by climbing up the stairs of the Albertina Museum. This offers epic panoramic views of the city as well.

The Vienna State Opera is super famous for its top-notch performances, but also for the once-a-year Opera Ball with lots of famous celebrities attending. Visit  Vienna in winter  if you want to see some celebrities.

The building itself is a stunner inside and out. If you love grand architecture and lavish interiors – the Opera is the place to be in Vienna.

Graz is Austria’s second-largest city, and it has a great mix of modern and historic vibes. 

The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, especially the medieval old town’s main square.

Graz is packed with cute squares and cobblestone streets, and a famous clocktower on a hill. Make sure to walk up there for epic views. 

Graz also has a young, artsy feel thanks to its universities (I should know, I studied there). 

The best time to go to Graz is either during the famous Aufsteirern festival (kind of like Octoberfest) or during the Christmas market season. 

9. Styrian Wine Road

The Styrian Wine Road is one of my favorite places in Austria. It is a dream route for wine lovers in southern Austria. 

Everyone will enjoy this scenic drive through rolling hills dotted with vineyards. Try tasting local wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Schilcher in cute family-run wineries that offer tastings.

Of course, the views are Insta-worthy, make sure to check out Herzerlstraße for that.

If all that driving makes you tired, there are famous thermal spas in the region with amazing water with healing qualities.

Lastly, you need to eat in a traditional restaurant, called Buschenschank , to have the best experience.

10. Krimml Waterfalls

The Krimml Waterfalls are a must-see in Austria, especially if you’re into nature and photography. They are located within  Hohe Tauern National Park in the heart of the Alps. This national park has majestic mountains, dense forests, alpine meadows, and glacial lakes. Other nearby highlights include Grossglockner, the country’s highest mountain, and the stunning Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

The Krimml waterfalls are famous for being the tallest in Europe, going down over 1,200 feet and three stages. 

You can hike up close, but you might get some spray-in-your-face moments. Or just admire them from a distance. 

Either way, they’re a jaw-dropping sight and one of the most beautiful places in Austria.

11. Wörthersee

Wörthersee is a stunning lake in Carinthia, in southern Austria.

The lake is famous for water sports, relaxation, and picturesque towns along the coast. 

The lake’s turquoise water is quite famous, especially because its water quality is super high and great for swimming.

The area around the lake is famous for its villas and pretty towns like Velden, where you can live it up in style.

If you want a bird’s eye view, make sure to hike up the Pyramidenkogel for some stunning vistas. 

12. Salzburg

Salzburg is like a postcard come to life and one of the prettiest places in Austria.

It is also a popular tourist destination since it is the birthplace of Mozart and was the set for “The Sound of Music.” 

The city’s historic Old Town is packed with cool buildings, especially in the famous Getreidegasse. 

Make sure to also check the massive fortress overlooking the city, called Hohensalzburg Fortress.

While the city has much to offer, you can pretty much see  Salzburg in one day.

13. Alpbach

Alpbach has often been called Austria’s most beautiful village. 

The cute small town has a rule that all the houses must be built in traditional Tyrolean style. That’s the main reason why it looks so charming. 

In winter, Alpbach turns into a ski paradise with slopes for all levels. Summer is all about hiking and mountain biking. 

Every year, there is a cool event called the Alpbach Forum. That is a bit of a convention for intellectuals to talk about various topics. 

14. Grossarl Valley 

The Grossarl Valley is one of the most beautiful places in Austria. It is part of the Alps and is perfect for nature lovers. 

It’s super pretty with mountains, forests, and streams. People go there for hiking, skiing, and just enjoying nature. 

It’s also known for its cozy alpine huts where you can grab a bite or a glass of ice-cold Austrian beer.

15. Sankt Gilgen 

St. Gilgen is a small but lovely town in Austria, right by Wolfgangsee Lake. 

It’s super scenic and a popular spot for boat rides and water sports in the summer months and for  Christmas markets  in the winter.

The town is also famous for its ties to Mozart. His mom was born there. 

Other cute towns on Lake Wolfgang are Strobl and the famous St. Wolfgang, with the White Horse Inn (Romantik Hotel Im Weissen Rössl).

16. Fuschl am See

Fuschlsee is another stunning lake in Austria, and it is not far from Wolfgangsee we just talked about. 

It’s super popular for swimming and hiking because it is so scenic.

Also, the Red Bull global headquarters are located in Fuschl am See, the town by the lake. You can take a tour or look at all the historic airplanes. 

17. Red Bull Ring

Speaking of Red Bull, you also need to check out the Red Bull Ring in Spielberg when looking for the most beautiful places in Austria. This is also where I grew up.

The Red Bull Ring is a racetrack in Spielberg, Austria. It’s a big deal in the motorsport world, hosting events like Formula 1 and DTM every year. 

Not only race fans will love exploring the area.  Red Bull renovated several castles  and spas in the area and turned them into luxe restaurants and hotels.

18. Seeschloss Ort in Gmunden

Gmunden is another beautiful town in Austria, right on the edge of Lake Traunsee.

It is famous for a cool castle called Schloss Ort , which is actually on a little island in the middle of the lake. It has one of the most scenic Christmas markets in Austria.

The town is also known for its ceramics. Buy some traditional Gmundner plates and mugs as a lovely souvenir.

19. Esterhazy Palace in Eisenstadt

Eisenstadt is the capital of Burgenland, one of Austria’s states. It is super close to Vienna, and it has some of the most beautiful spots in Austria.

Eisenstadt is mainly famous for its Esterházy Palace . That is a big, fancy castle where the composer Joseph Haydn used to work.

The city itself is also pretty nice and it has a rich history and some great wineries nearby.

20. Tyrolean Alps  

The Tyrolean Alps are in the western part of Austria and are mostly famous for their picture-perfect peaks. 

These Alpine peaks are also made for skiing, snowboarding, and après ski. 

In the summer, it’s all about hiking and mountain biking in Tyrol. It is also the perfect spot for a road trip through Austria, as you’ll get some stunning views.

The area’s got cute and fancy villages like Kitzbühel. There you’ll find luxury hotels and boutiques and one of the  best European ski resorts for families . 

21. Dachstein

Dachstein is a famous mountain in the Austrian Alps, and it is a great spot to visit year-round. It is a huge destination for rock climbing enthusiasts and travelers can opt for a guided tour if they are inexperienced.

The Dachstein Glacier is a highlight of course, because it offers year-round skiing. 

Non-skiers will also love a visit there. One of the coolest things there is the Skywalk, a platform with amazingly good views. And the Dachstein Giant Ice Caves are always worth a visit.

NOTE: The Dachstein Cable Car Mountain Station is currently closed until May 2024 while improvements are being made.

22. Leopoldsteiner See

Leopoldsteiner See is a lake in Styria, Austria. It’s surrounded by forests and mountains, which makes it one of the prettiest places in Austria.

Unlike the other lakes, you can’t really go for a swim. It is great for nature walks, photography, and boating. 

It is usually very quiet, so this is definitely a bit of a hidden gem in Austria.

On your way there, you’ll most likely pass by the Erzberg, a quarry for ore that looks super spectacular. 

23. Swarovski Kristallwelten

Swarovski Kristallwelten is a crystal wonderland in Wattens, Austria. As the name implies, it is one of the most impressive places in Austria.

Kristallwelten is not just a shop; it’s more like a theme park for crystal lovers. 

There’s art, gardens, and some stunning sculptures. It is a bit far off the beaten track, but it is definitely worth the drive. 

FAQ: Most Beautiful Places in Austria

What is the best time to go to austria.

Honestly, there is no bad time to go to Austria. Every season has something different to offer. 

As a local, I would recommend going in winter, as it is the most beautiful and the Christmas markets are everywhere. 

Spring is also a great time to visit, as there are fewer tourists, and it is pretty quiet. It is also a lot cheaper than in summer. It might rain from time to time, so consider that in your planning.

Summer is definitely the peak tourist season in Austria. This means you can swim in the lakes and the Danube, but it is also busy and expensive. It might also get really hot. 

Fall is scenic and beautiful, with fall foliage all over the place. You might have a higher chance of rain, but I wouldn’t worry about it too much. 

How to Get Around Austria?

Getting around Austria is pretty easy if you know how. You have a ton of options.

The best option is to grab a rental car at the airport. This gives you the freedom to explore, especially the countryside. Just watch out for mountain roads, and driving in winter can be a bit of a hassle if you are not used to it. 

Trains are also super comfy and they go almost everywhere. They are great for long distances and especially travel between the bigger cities. Taking a day trip from  Vienna to Hallstatt  or Salzburg is super easy.

Some cities like Vienna, Salzburg, or Graz are bike-friendly. There are also cool bike paths in the countryside and in the mountains for mountain bikers. You will still need a car to get from place to place though, as Austria is pretty big. 

What is the most attractive place in Austria?

Hallstatt is the most attractive place in Austria, nestled between a stunning lake and impressive mountains.

Famous for its charming wooden houses and the iconic church by the water, it’s a magnet for photographers and Instagrammers alike. Whether it’s the boat rides on the lake or the trip down the ancient salt mines, Hallstatt has a lot to offer.

Why is Austria so beautiful?

Austria is so beautiful because it’s got a bit of everything: the majestic Alps, crystal clear blue lakes, and charming towns. Whether you’re skiing in Tyrol or sipping wine in South Styria, the natural beauty of Austria is off the charts.

Add some historic castles, sweet locals, and cozy alpine cottages, and you’ve got a country that’s beautiful from every angle.

Conclusion: Most Beautiful Places in Austria

In the end, Austria is like a treasure chest full of jaw-dropping places. 

From the cute little towns around Wolfgangsee to the stunning heights of the Dachstein mountain, this small country packs a powerful punch. And even though we didn’t go into detail, don’t forget about Hallstatt, Salzburg, Innsbruck, and Vienna. 

Whether you’re visiting Lake Traunsee in Gmunden or exploring the crystal park at Swarovski Kristallwelten, there’s something for everyone in Austria. 

About the author: Sabrina is a Netherlands-based travel blogger and content creator. She aims to create slow-paced and authentic itineraries for many destinations worldwide. Her goal is to help people explore more while doing less.

The post 23 Most Beautiful Places in Austria – A Local’s Guide appeared first on .

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12 Best Places to Visit in Austria

By Carl Austin · Last updated on June 17, 2024

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

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

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

12. Bad Gastein

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

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

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

11. Worthersee

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Zillertal Alps

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

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

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

8. Grossglockner Alpine Road

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

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

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

7. St Anton am Arlberg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Zell am See

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

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

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

4. Innsbruck

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

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

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

3. Salzkammergut

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

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

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

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

2. Salzburg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of Austria

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Reader interactions.

July 21, 2018 at 2:01 am

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

October 26, 2017 at 12:17 am

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

October 20, 2017 at 4:46 am

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

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• Things to Do
• Cities and Culture
• Top 10 Sights in Austria

Austria’s Top Sights

From Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace to Mozart’s birthplace in Salzburg, these are the top 10 attractions you should visit in Austria.

View to Schönbrunn Palace and the Gloriette Austrian National Tourist Office / Julius Silver Schloß Schönbrunn media_content.tooltip.skipped

View of the Ringstrasse from the roof of the Burgtheater Wien Tourismus / Christian Stemper media_content.tooltip.skipped

1. Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna

The Habsburgs’ summer residence is Austria’s most popular tourist attraction. Take a guided tour through the Imperial ceremonial rooms or stroll through the freely accessible gardens. Nearby, you can visit Schönbrunn Zoo, the oldest zoo in the world.

2. Ringstrasse, Vienna

Vienna’s Ringstrasse (ring road) circles the city’s first district and is home to some of the most grandiose buildings Austria’s capital has to offer. The State Opera, Parliament, City Hall, the university and more can all be seen by taking a stroll along Ringstrasse or boarding a tram.

3. Giant Ferris Wheel, Vienna

Located in Vienna’s historic Prater amusement park, the Giant Ferris Wheel gives you some of the best views over the city. Its passenger cars can be booked for private breakfasts, candle-lit dinners, and even weddings.

4. Hohensalzburg Fortress, Salzburg

First built in 1077, Hohensalzburg Fortress stands high above the city of Salzburg, a short (but steep) walk from the city centre. Inside, you will find the Princes’ Chambers with furnishing that have not been changed since the early 1500s, as well as a museum showcasing ancient suits of armour and a historic marionette museum.

5. Mozart’s Birthplace, Salzburg

When you walk through Salzburg’s Getreidegasse, a quaint, cobble-stoned shopping street that is reminiscent of centuries past, you won’t be able to miss Mozart’s birthplace at no. 9. After all, it’s one of the most popular museums in the world nowadays, showcasing the original rooms and Mozart’s musical instruments.

Salzburg City - View of the Hohensalzburg Fortress Tourismus Salzburg GmbH / Günter Breitegger media_content.tooltip.skipped

Mozart's Birthplace Tourismus Salzburg GmbH Mozart's birthplace media_content.tooltip.skipped

6. Schlossberg Hill & Clocktower in Graz, Styria

A must-do for every first-time visitor to Graz is climbing Schlossberg hill and seeing the city’s famous clocktower up close. If you don’t feel up to climbing the 260 stairs, simply take the lift (located inside the actual hill) or the Schlossbergbahn funicular. Up top, you can treat yourself to a coffee with fantastic views over the city.

7. Kunsthaus Art Museum in Graz, Styria

The Kunsthaus in Austria’s second city, Graz, attracts visitors not just with its modern art exhibitions, but with its unusual architecture: Opened in 2003, it is said to look like a “friendly alien” in the midst of Baroque architecture. With its large, tube-like "nozzles" for windows that stick out from the curved roof and its computerized lighting system, it’s a true eye-catcher in Graz’s city centre.

The clock tower at the city mountain Schlossberg in Graz Graz Tourism / Harry Schiffer Styria media_content.tooltip.skipped

8. Golden Roof in Innsbruck, Tirol

Located in the midst of the old town, Innsbruck’s Golden Roof is perhaps the city’s most famous landmark. Built in the 15th century at the behest of Kaiser Maximilian I, its 2,657 gilded shingles shine as bright as ever.

9. Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, Tirol

25 minutes outside of Innsbruck, a world of crystals awaits that has to be seen to be believed: There are 17 separate “crystal chambers”, including a giant crystal dome and an “infinity mirror room” featuring a revolving chandelier. There are stunning crystal exhibits and installations by the likes of Andy Warhol, Jean-Paul Gaultier, and Keith Haring. And outside, a cloud made out of 800,000 crystal rivals the starry night sky.

Crystal Dome (Swarovski Crystal Worlds) Swarovski Kristallwelten media_content.tooltip.skipped

10. Ars Electronica Center in Linz, Upper Austria

Talk to an android on the phone, pet a robot seal, or clone your favourite plant: The Ars Electronica Center in Linz is a unique interactive museum which lets you experience science, technology, and art up close. Its 5,100 m2 (56,000 sqft) LED façade right next to the Danube continuously changes colours, making for a nightly spectacle.

Discover Austria's Cities

City breaks in summer - your cultural 'lebensgefühl'.

City trips in Austrias cultural summer hit right at the heart. Because Austrias cities surprise, make curious – and sometimes even are addictive. #feelAustria

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14 hidden places in Vienna that only the locals really know

If there’s one thing we know, it’s that we all like to be in on a secret. and we’re about to expose some. well, many of you will know these 14 places, however, this is a list of places in vienna that aren’t so widely known..

To the regular visitors of these places – please don’t be mad, we just want to share all the cool places we’ve discovered over the years with fellow lovers of Vienna.

© nikles.net

1. Jubiläumswarte – Hidden places in Vienna

The Jubiläumswarte is a weather station turned into a super rad lookout point in the western area of Vienna, somewhere deep in the 16th district.

Climbing up the many flights of stairs is definitely worth it, and not just because you’ll get in an extra workout, but also because the panoramic views awaiting you at the top are absolutely marvelous. The best thing about it is that it’s completely free to go up there AND it’s open 24 hours in summer!

2. Setagaya Park – Hidden places in Vienna

This Japanese-style garden in Döbling will make you feel like you’ve entered into a world far, far away from Vienna, and also far away from any of the sorrows, or worries you may have had upon entering.

There’s a pond, a bridge, a unique array of plants and a little waterfall in Setagaya Park. There’s even a tea house where you can sit and have a cuppa’ while you enjoy the atmosphere and get your zen on.

3. Vienna Peace Pagoda – Hidden places in Vienna

Did you know that Vienna hosts a harbour? And that along a route that runs along the harbour area, known as the Hafenzufahrtsstrasse, there’s a Buddhist temple?

Buddha is encased in a white dome structure and the monument symbolises the unity of all humans, and the hope for the common cause of world peace, no matter your background, or religion. Visiting and sitting by this pagoda can be a peaceful thing to do as part of a walk along the waterside walking trail that passes by it.

4. The hidden bars – Hidden places in Vienna

There are many awesome bars in Vienna that you’ll only know about if you’ve caught wind of them via word of mouth – or a cool article in Vienna Würstelstand, of course.

The bars krypt. and Tür 7 are definitely a little tricky to find, however, those who know them, love their dimly-lit and stylish appeal. To get into both of these cocktail joints, you first have to find the entrance and ring the doorbell. For more hidden bars, check out our article about our favourite dive bars .

5. The hidden market squares – Hidden places in Vienna

Now, everybody knows Vienna’s largest market, the mighty Naschmarkt that spends most of its days constipated with tourists. But how about the smaller, lesser known, tourist-free market squares, which throb at the heart of many of the city’s neighbourhoods.

We ventured from one side of the city to the other to make you a list of our favourite market squares to discover in Vienna.

© Vienna Würstelstand

Images via facebook.com/wienerschnecke

6. Gugumuck – Hidden places in Vienna

Gugumuck is one fascinating place run by some fascinating people. Part snail farm, part escargot restaurant, Gugumuck seeks to keep the Viennese tradition of eating snails alive in this city.

It’s located on the fringes of the 10th district, so it is quite a trek, BUT, it is well worth it. Ask anybody who’s dined there.  You need to reserve on one of the select days that they open up their restaurant, which is particularly charming in summer when they open up their alfresco garden right next to their snail farm.

image © Bwag/Commons

7. The Hermesvilla mansion in Lainzer Tiergarten – Hidden places in Vienna

If you decide to have a stroll in the huge nature reserve known as the Lainzer Tiergarten, you should really plan in half a day for it, as there’s a lot of green space and woods to cover.

You’re sure to stumble across the Hermesvilla, which is set right in the middle of the former imperial hunting grounds – which was actually  a present from Kaiser Franz Joseph I to none other than your favourite empress, Sissi, who called it ‘castle of dreams.’ Inside the regal looking shack is a cafe and restaurant run by the talented Gastro crowd of Labstelle.

8. The lesser-known charming Heurige & Buschenschänke – Hidden places in Vienna

Since you’re already well versed on what a Heurige and Buschenschank is, we know you need no convincing on why you should visit one of the local’s favourites when it comes to Vienna’s wine taverns.

Hidden away up in the foothills is Heurigenschenke zur Wildsau , which is set in a quiet green garden – that actually feels like somebody’s back garden. Meanwhile, at Weinhandwerk , you can enjoy a stellar glass of wine in amidst a beautifully overgrown and colourful garden. For more Heuriger-inspiration, check out the winemaker’s favourites here.

9. Shakespeare & Company – Hidden places in Vienna

www.shakespeare.co.at

This English bookshop is delightfully hidden away in the cobblestone streets of the city centre. You’ve got to go up some stairs and down a wonky-paved alleyway to reach it.

The bookshop was inspired by the famous Shakespeare and Company bookshop in Paris, and while it doesn’t hit the heights of the same kind of charm, it certainly has a flair of its own. It’s an intimate paradise, a safe space for book lovers.

10. The event venue METAStadt – Hidden places in Vienna

https://www.metastadt.at/

Happening inside the ex-factory, now event venue, METAStadt, you’ll find yoga sessions, flea markets, and concerts, and more.

From the outside, one may think this is nothing more than an abandoned building, but within its brick walls, you’ll find a huge space that offers 4 event halls, boasting the perfect kind of vibe for a grungy concert, a wild DJ set, or a bustling fleamarket.

11. The hidden palace gardens and parks – Hidden places in Vienna

If Schönbrunn is overcrowded, then Palais Liechtenstein is a great location to escape the masses and still enjoy a palace setting. This palace is a real eye-catcher, and behind it, you’ll find a fairytale-like garden. You can either stroll through the park’s walkways on your own, or join the guided tours that will tell you all about the family Liechtenstein’s fancy art collection.

If quiet parks that few people know about is your kind of thing, check out our article on Vienna’s hidden gardens.

Photos © Daniel Dutkowski (www.dutkowski.com)

12. The lesser known coffeehouses – Hidden places in Vienna

There are soooo many traditional Viennese coffee houses surviving today that are off the tourist track. And we just love discovering them, with their retro vibes, intimate booths, and smartly dressed waiting staff. Priceless.

You can experience all of this at Café Kafka , where in addition to being served some satisfying pesto-tomato-mozzarella toast, you can increase your caffeine intake from an award-winning barista! Or there’s also legendary Café Rüdigerhof that you might have heard of from your hipster buddies and artsy-fartsy friends.

Want more? Check out our l ist of more lesser-known coffeehouses in the city

Photos © B&F

Photos @ Condomi Museum

13. The lesser-known museums – Hidden places in Vienna

Many people will tell you to visit the huge and famous museums in Vienna that – don’t get us wrong – make for a great Saturday, or Sunday afternoon experience. But check out these cool and unique lesser-known ones this ‘ole city of ours has to offer!

There’s places like a funeral museum , a condomi museum , a circus and clown museum and a coffee museum , where you might truly learn to enjoy and appreciate the little things this weird life has to offer. We’ve actually gathered a full list of the lesser known weird and wonderful museums of Vienna for you to check out, so you don’t even have to do any work Googling them. You’re welcome!

14. Böhmischer Prater – Hidden places in Vienna

Yep, you read that right! There’s another Prater in Vienna, and only a bunch of people really know about it, because the big one in the inner city is stealing its thunder!

It’s set in one of Vienna’s recreational areas, the Laaer Wald in Favoriten. This frozen-in-time fairground was born cuz’ some guy named Franz who owned a small inn decided to put up a swing set and a carousel. It became so popular for Sunday outings that other cafés and restaurant owners followed his lead.

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17 Best Places to Visit in Austria

Written by Lura Seavey Updated Mar 22, 2022

There is hardly a spot in Austria that isn't worth visiting, either for its rich history or its breathtaking scenery, but some stand out above the rest. Many of the best places to visit are popular tourist attractions that take a day or more to fully explore, like many of the grand Hapsburg palaces of Vienna and Salzburg or the Benedictine Abbey in Melk.

Likewise, old city neighborhoods full of stunning Baroque facades and historic landmarks can occupy tourists for days, providing endless photo-ops, as well as shopping and dining.

Outside of the bigger cities, Austria has several regions that are full of cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Winter travelers can challenge themselves on the ski trails of Austria's Alpine slopes , and those visiting in the summer can even find a mountain lake that feels like the Mediterranean. Any time of year, tourists can admire the idyllic pastoral landscape dotted with traditional farmhouses.

Plan your sightseeing itinerary in this beautiful country with our list of the best places to visit in Austria.

2. Salzburg

3. tirol province, 5. historic innsbruck, 7. the wachau valley, 8. melk abbey, 9. hallstätter see, 11. achensee, 12. villach, 13. lake wörthersee, 14. st. anton am arlberg, 15. klagenfurt, 16. kitzbühel, 17. voitsberg, map of places to visit in austria.

The stunning city of Vienna is home to grand palaces, historic cathedrals, and over a hundred museums and art galleries. Located at the heart of the historic city, the 5.3-kilometer Ringstrasse was built during the 19 th century to be the city's cultural hub. Tourists who are short on time can hop aboard the Vienna Ring Tram , which can be used for self-guided tours or to get from one museum to the next. Beautiful gardens and parks are laid out along the route.

Tourists will find a variety of architectural styles among the fine buildings, including several Neo-Renaissance-style landmarks, including the Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum), the Museum of Fine Arts , and the State Opera . Other styles represented include several New Gothic buildings ( Votive Church , the Museum for Applied Art , and the Vienna Stock Exchange ), Flemish Gothic ( City Hall ), and New Baroque ( Burgtheater ).

Other Ringstrasse attractions include the University of Vienna , the Parliament buildings , and the Imperial Hofburg Palace which is home to several of Vienna's major museums including the Natural History Museum , the Sisi Museum , and the Imperial Apartments . The complex is one of the world's largest palaces, consisting of 18 groups of buildings on 59 acres with a total of 2,600 rooms and over a dozen courtyards. It showcases a range of architectural styles, as it was expanded and modified by each Hapsburg ruler since 1275.

Another of Vienna's magnificent palaces is Schloss Belvedere (Belvedere Palace) which consists of two Baroque palaces simply referred to as Oberes (Upper) Belvedere and Unteres (Lower) Belvedere. Work began on the Lower Belvedere in 1700, and Prince Eugene used this palace as his personal residence.

The palace is also known for its collection of art, particularly medieval art and 19 th - and 20 th -century Austrian art found in the Österreichische Galerie Belvedere . The Upper Belvedere was completed in 1724, and it is here that the Austrian State Treaty was signed in 1955, marking Austria's independence.

The third major palace is Schloss Schönbrunn (Schönbrunn Palace) , a beautiful estate featuring over 1,400 rooms and expansive manicured grounds. Construction began in the late 17 th century, and it was completed in 1730, soon becoming the royal residence for the only female Hapsburg ruler, Maria Theresa. Visitors can tour 40 of the Baroque palace's rooms, including the Imperial Apartments in the West Wing. The surrounding park and gardens are equally stunning, featuring sculptures; fountains; and the dramatic Palm House , a Victorian-era greenhouse.

Vienna is home to an astounding number of museums, and among the city's best art museums are The Albertina , which has pieces by Pablo Picasso and Edvard Munch, and the Vienna Museum's collections, which house historic exhibits, as well as extensive art collections. Other top museums include the Technical Museum , the Kriminalmuseum ( Crime Museum ), and the Natural History Museum . For kids, there is a Kindermuseum ( Children's Museum ) located at Schönbrunn Palace , as well as the ZOOM Children's Museum .

Visitors who are interested in ecclesiastical attractions will not want to miss the stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral ( Stephansdom ), an impressive Gothic structure that was first erected during the 13 th century. From the outside, tourists will be struck by the unique patterned roof and its 137-meter-tall spire, as well as the two Heidentürme (Heathen's Towers). The cathedral has numerous points of interest , including the Giant's Door , which is a fine example of Late Romanesque architecture, a 1640 High Altar made of black marble, three distinct chapels, and its 14 th -century Catacombs .

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

Salzburg is packed with historic attractions, and is one of the best cities in Austria for tourists to get an in-depth cultural experience. The Getreidegasse in Salzburg is the heart of the Old City , home to fine historic buildings and shopping galore. Sitting on the left bank of the Salzach River , the Getreidegasse is a designated UNESCO World Heritage site .

Among Salzburg's top things to do is visiting Mozart's Birthplace , now a museum. With its unique through-houses and elaborately decorated Baroque facades, this district is ideal for photographers.

Another excellent place to visit for photos is Schloss Mirabell ( Mirabell Palace ), home to terraced Baroque gardens that were featured in The Sound of Music . The Schloss Hellbrunn ( Hellbrunn Palace ) was also featured in the iconic gazebo scene.

The Benedictine Abbey of St. Peter is another Old Town (Altstadt) attraction that cannot be missed, built in the late 7 th century by St. Rupert. St. Peter's Church, adjacent to the abbey, is best known for its catacombs which were used during the filming of The Sound of Music .

Standing guard over the city of Salzburg from the top of Mönchsberg is the 11 th -century fortress of Hohensalzburg. Hohensalzburg Castle can be reached by foot or via funicular, and the Prince's Apartments can be toured, as well as other areas of the ornately decorated Late Gothic palace.

Two excellent military-themed museums are also located here, including the Rainer Regiment Museum and the Fortress Museum , both of which contain examples of antique weapons and other artifacts.

Tirol Province occupies most of the relatively narrow western end of Austria and follows the path of the valley's River Inn . The province borders Germany to the north, Italy to the South, and a small portion of Switzerland' s northeastern border.

Its capital city of Innsbruck sits in this valley at the feet of the Nordkette mountain range and is a hub of historical, natural, and cultural attractions , as well as a convenient place to stay while exploring the Tirol region.

The area surrounding Innsbruck is home to some of Austria's most popular ski resorts and Alpine wonders like the Stubai Glacier, where visitors can explore tunnels and caves within the ancient ice. Two-time host to the Olympic Winter Games, Innsbruck's Patscherkofel ski area also offers a wide range of winter sports facilities.

In the summer, visitors can swim in the blue-green glacial waters of the surrounding lakes, with Lake Natters and Lake Lans conveniently close to Innsbruck. Hiking and biking is popular on the Alpine trails like Zirbenweg Trail on Patscherkofel. Rock climbers can safely practice at a climbing center in the nearby village of Igls.

Cultural attractions in the surrounding areas include the 16th-century Schloss Ambras ( Ambras Palace ) and Swarovski Kristallwelten , a museum dedicated to Swarovski crystals. In the town of Sölden , 007 ELEMENTS is an excellent museum for anyone fascinated by the James Bond films, with many a ski-chase scene filmed on the surrounding slopes.

The second-largest Austrian city, Graz has been an important trade city since the 12 th century thanks to its position on the River Mur. The Old Town of Graz is home to several beautiful historic buildings and has been honored as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999.

The Old Town is especially well known for its Baroque facades, and the 17 th -century Haus am Luegg is one of the best examples, featuring intricate decorative stucco work and an arcaded first floor. Other notable buildings include the Renaissance-style Landhaus ; the Rathaus (Town Hall); and the Franziskanerkirche (Franciscan Church), which has excellent examples of Late Gothic features. Schlossberg hill overlooks the old town, and visitors can visit its 16 th -century Uhrturm ( Clock Tower ) via funicular.

Several museums are located in the Old Town district, including the Mohren Apotheke's Theriak Museum (Apothecary Museum) and the Stadtmuseum Graz (Graz Municipal Museum), as well as the Robert Stoltz Museum , which is dedicated to this 19 th -century composer. Graz is also home to the world's largest historical armory museum, the Landeszeughaus ( Styrian Armoury ), which has displays of small arms, edged weapons, and armor made for both humans and their horses.

Rising to a height of 473 meters, the Schlossberg overlooks the Old Town of Graz, providing excellent views of the historic district. Once the site of fortifications, the 1561 Uhrturm ( Clock Tower ) is one of the only remaining structures, as well as the Glockenturm (Belfry), which features an eight-ton bell locally known as Liesl .

The Schlossberg is also home to family-friendly attractions, including a mini-railroad, an open-air theater, and a café with great views. This area can be accessed by a three-minute funicular ride or by foot in 20 minutes.

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

Among Innsbruck's most impressive historic attractions are the Hofburg , the former court palace, and Maria-Theresien Strasse , where you will find numerous 17th- and 18th-century buildings, including the Rathaus ( Town Hall ) and the Annasäule monument ( St. Anne's Column ). Throughout the Old Town district, tourists will find numerous examples of ornate Baroque architecture that features detailed stucco work and other embellishments.

While visiting Innsbruck, be sure to leave time for at least a ride on the Nordkettenbahn , a funicular which brings passengers from the center of town to Hungerberg for astounding views of the city and the mountains. There is also the option of continuing on to Seegrube, where you will find a restaurant and viewing area, as well as Karwendel , the country's largest nature park.

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

Situated in western Austria, Bregenz sits between Lake Constance ( Bodensee ) and the 1,064-meter Pfänder Mountain. Tourists should start their visit with a stroll along the Lake Promenade ( Seepromenade ) and a visit to the bustling harbor area, which is full of shopping, entertainment, and restaurants.

The impressive stage that hosts the Bregenz Festival (Bregenzer Festspiele) appears to float on the water. This venue seats 7,000 guests and presents an annual music festival that features opera and classical music, including prominent ensembles like the Vienna Symphony Orchestra .

A trip up the Pfänderbahn to the top of Pfänder Mountain is rewarded by spectacular views of the town, lake, and neighboring lakeside villages in Germany and Switzerland. While there, be sure to visit the mountain goats at the Alpine Wildlife Park , and see birds of prey at the Eagle Observatory .

More ambitious tourists can hike the mountain in about two hours, but you can enjoy the trail just as much if you ride up and then make your way back down to town by foot.

The Upper Town (Oberstadt) is home to old Roman fortifications, as well as several historic buildings. Top places to visit include the Old Town Hall (Alte Rathaus), built in 1622; the Deuringschlösschen palace, built in 1698; and several churches dating back as far as the 14 th century. The Lower Town (Unterstadt) also has several historic attractions, like the late 17th-century New Town Hall (Rathaus) and several lovely churches, including the ornate Rococo St. Nepomuk Chapel .

Read More: Top Attractions & Things to Do in Bregenz

Along the Danube River between Melk and Krems is the peaceful and dramatically beautiful Wachau Valley, full of small historic towns and hidden treasures. Due to its relative seclusion and idyllic natural surroundings, this was a popular place for monasteries during the Renaissance period, with more than 30 at one time.

One of the best-preserved of these is the Baroque Servite monastery of Maria Langegg , located in Aggsbach-Dorf , which is also home to the Wallfahrtsmuseum ( Pilgrimage Museum ).

For the same reasons, wealthy and royal families chose this valley for their summer residences. Located just five kilometers from Melk, Schloss Schallaburg is a beautiful Romanesque Renaissance palace featuring a Gothic chapel and stunning gardens.

The ruins of Medieval Aggstein Castle (Burgruine Aggstein) offer spectacular views from its cliff-top perch above the river, and from here, you can also see the town where the famous Paleolithic Venus of Willendorf was found.

Tourists should also seek out the town of Dürnstein, known for being one of Austria's most picturesque towns.

Melk Abbey is considered one of the finest monasteries in Europe, both for its architecture and contents. The building is a massive palatial structure that features multiple courtyards and a stunning Baroque church . Among its many embellishments, the Abbey church features a delicately carved high altar and pulpit and a painted ceiling.

Visitors will want to step out onto the terrace which faces the Wachau Valley below, an excellent spot for photographing the town below.

The monastery's true wonder is its library , with a main hall that is home to 16,000 volumes and an additional dozen rooms containing an additional 100,000 books. The main library hall is open to the public, featuring ceiling frescoes by Paul Troger and a spiral staircase that leads to the additional rooms. This stunning space was used by Umberto Eco for inspiration while writing The Name of the Rose.

While visiting, be sure to take some time to enjoy Melk's Old Town, located just below the Abbey. The Rathausplatz (Town Hall Square) is home to the Lebzelterhaus (Home for Itinerants), which features painted windows, as well as the Town Hall, which displays the city coat of arms. The Hauptplatz (Main Square) is another lovely spot that is close to historic landmarks like the Haus am Stein and the Altes Posthaus (Old Post Office).

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melk

The Hallstätter See is a lovely mountain lake in the Salzkammergut region of Austria. This serene glacial lake extends 8.5 kilometers long and is only two kilometers at its widest point, and the shore is dotted with idyllic villages.

A no-motor policy ensures that everyone's time on the lake is peaceful, and tourists can easily rent a rowboat or pedal boat to explore and take in the stunning mountain scenery.

One of the most beautiful villages on the lake is Hallstatt , located just over an hour from Salzburg. The town is named for the salt mine nearby, and its central Marktplatz ( Market Square ) is a good place to get a bite to eat and photograph the traditional homes.

Tourists can also visit Hallstatt Salt World , located nearby on Salzburg (Salt Mountain) and easily reached via funicular or cable car. Here, you can visit and learn about the 7,000-year-old mine, explore the old fortifications at Rudolfsturm (Rudolf's Tower), and brave the heights from atop the Skywalk viewing platform.

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

The capital city of Lower Austria, Linz sits on both sides of the Danube River , with its old town sights located primarily on the southern banks. The heart of the historic district is Landstrasse , home to picturesque Baroque buildings, as well as many fine boutiques and galleries. At the center is Hauptplatz , the beautiful market square and pedestrian area.

Perched on a hill adjacent to the old town is Linz Schloss ( Linz Castle ), a fortress that was first built in the ninth century and has been expanded and remodeled over the millennia. Today, it houses an excellent history museum (the Schlossmuseum ), which has exhibits that include prehistoric and Roman artifacts, medieval arms and armor, and a variety of artwork.

Just outside the city center, tourists can find beautiful Botanic Gardens that feature native Alpine flowers, an enclosed rose garden, a cactus house, and exotic plants in a tropic house.

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

Achensee is one of the best lakes in Austria . It's known for its massive size, covering over 6.7 square kilometers and reaching a maximum depth of 133 meters, giving it the nickname "Sea of Tirol." The towns of Maurach and Pertisau are the best places to explore the lake from , offering plenty of lodgings to choose from.

Swimmers who don't mind cooler water enjoy this lake for its incredibly clear water, making this an excellent place for scuba diving. Kitesurfers and windsurfers will also find ideal conditions, thanks to thermal winds, and tourists can easily find boat rentals for a leisurely day on the water. Local tour operators also offer boat tours, and there is a steamer boat that circles the lake regularly, stopping at several towns.

The surrounding mountains and valleys are also lovely for exploring, with hiking, cycling, and mountain biking in the summer, and plenty of skiing in the winter.

This historic town in southern Austria began as a small Roman fortification and has become a prominent hub in the region, nestled by the Villacher and Julian Alps. Thanks to its Alpine neighbors, Villach is a popular place to stay while exploring the nearby ski areas at Afritz, Annenheim, Dreiländereck, St. Lambrecht, St. Blasen, and St. Urban.

Visitors will want to begin their time in Villach at the Hauptplatz (Main Square) , home to several historic attractions, as well as many galleries, boutiques, and cafés. Points of interest include the Trinity Column at the center of the square and the parish church at the southern end. A short walk from the square is the 14 th -century Parish Church of St. Jakob (Stadtpfarrkirche St. Jakob), which offers excellent views from its 95-meter tower.

Tourists can learn more about the city's history by visiting the Museum der Stadt Villach , which has exhibits featuring reproductions and artifacts from Villach's long history. Another significant historic site is the 14 th -century Landskron Castle . Tourists can visit the ruins and enjoy beautiful views, as well as see demonstrations put on by the falconry center.

Animal lovers will also find some interesting attractions, including Affenberg Zoo and Rosegg Zoo. Affenberg Zoo is also known as Monkey Mountain , thanks to its population of over 150 Japanese macaques who live, play, and raise their families here. Rosseg Zoo specializes in exotic animals and includes a labyrinth, playground, and café.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Villach

Located in the province of Carinthia, Lake Wörthersee (also called Lake Wörth ) is the region's largest lake and one of the warmest of any Alpine lakes . During the warmest months, the clear glacial water can reach over 80 degrees Fahrenheit, while in the winter it is turned into a huge ice-skating rink.

It is a popular place for swimming and boating and has an almost Mediterranean atmosphere during the summer with its waterside restaurants and laid-back atmosphere.

Surrounded by mountains on all sides, visitors have even more recreational options. There are many hiking trails of various difficulty, as well as bike paths that are a great way to explore the shoreline and small lakeside communities. There are also several fitness courses, including the facilities used by the annual Kärnten Ironman Austria .

The provincial capital of Klagenfurt sits on the eastern end of the lake and is an excellent place to start your visit.

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

This mountain in the Tyrolean Alps is home to one of Austria's best ski resorts , and also one of its most challenging. With 280 kilometers of terrain reaching as high as 2,811 meters, there are plenty of trails for intermediate and expert skiers to choose from.

The mountain is easily accessible from the village via lifts, and there is a bus available for less experienced skiers who would prefer to try out the easier trails on Zürs and Lech . Advanced skiers can also visit other Arlberg mountains via the " Run of Fame ," an 85-kilometer trail that circles through these mountains as well as Warth .

Those who want to enjoy the mountain without having to face the slopes can take one of the sightseeing gondolas to the peak to admire the 360-degree views of the surrounding Alps, many of which reach over 3,000 meters in height. For a particularly breathtaking dining experience, take the Valluga Gondola Section II to the Valluga Restaurant for lunch or dinner.

Located in southern Austria near Lake Wörthersee , Klagenfurt is best known for its Old Town , which was founded in 1161. Originally a market town, Klagenfurt still hosts the Benedictine farmer's market , with local farmers from Austria, as well as Italy and Slovenia. It's a truly multicultural adventure.

Among the historic quarter's best attractions are its Renaissance courtyards and the stunning Klagenfurt Cathedral (Dom zu Klagenfurt), which houses the Gurk Diocesan Museum . This is also the best area to find a nice café to rest in after exploring the historic streets and buildings, or shopping in the boutiques.

Tourists will also want to explore Klagenfurt's old fortified walls , as well as its 16 th -century moat and canal.

Other things to do in Klagenfurt include visiting the Lindwurmbrunnen (also known as Lindworm Fountain or Dragon Fountain) in Neur Platz , which was carved in 1590; the historic Landhaus (1574-90); and the Grosser Wappensaal (Great Emblem Hall), which was built in 1740.

Kitzbühel is one of Austria's most popular mountain sports destinations, full of skiing and snowboarding in the winter and rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking in the summer. There is also a lovely Old Town (Innenstadt) filled with historic structures and cozy cafés.

Kitzbüheler Horn towers over the town at just shy of 2,000 meters and is home to the Alpenhaus restaurant and a few historic buildings. In nice weather, it can be scaled in around four hours via a path that starts in the middle of town, or brave tourists can drive to the top via a steep winding road. Any time of year, visitors can take the Pletzeralm to the top to enjoy the views.

This mountain, as well as nearby Hahnenkamm , Hornköpfli, and Steinbergkogel , all have excellent networks of ski trails, and in the winter, Kitzbühel is one of the top ski destinations in Austria.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Kitzbühel

Located a little over 40 kilometers from Graz is Voitsberg, best known as the home of the Lipizzaner thoroughbreds, the famed horses of Vienna's Spanish Riding School. Visitors can tour the actual farm, Piber Federal Stud , which includes a museum, stable tours, and even carriage rides pulled by the majestic horses.

The area is also home to some beautiful ruins that are fun to explore, like Neuleonrod Castle , where the forest is trying to reclaim the stone walls. A visit to Castle Krems (Burgruine Krems) rewards visitors with stunning views and lovely gardens.

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My 5 Favorite European Destinations For Solo Female Travelers

In this story, Let’s explore 5 Safe and Solo-Female-Friendly Destinations in Europe

Witness breathtaking landscapes, glaciers, waterfalls, and black sand beaches. Explore Reykjavik, chase the northern lights, or hike the Ring Road.

Experience a fusion of natural beauty and modern architecture. Explore Helsinki, relax in a traditional sauna, or hike in Lemmenjoki National Park.

Discover a quirky and friendly capital city. Enjoy delicious food halls, historical sites, and easy access to other Danish destinations.

Immerse yourself in art, music, and culture. Explore Vienna's grand palaces, Salzburg's charming streets, or the beauty of the Bohemian Forest.

Explore diverse landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Hike the Camino de Santiago, discover the best of Barcelona or Madrid, or join a small group tour.

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