3 places to visit in austria

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

23 Mar 2023

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

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

34 Top Places To Visit In Austria In 2024

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

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

1. Vienna – Walk Down The Glorious Past

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

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

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

Must Read: The 10 Most Beautiful Lakes In Austria

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2. Salzburg – A Date With Mozart

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

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

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

3. Innsbruck – The Picture-Postcard Town

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Best Churches In Austria

4. Salzkammergut – Relax And Rejuvenate

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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6. Worthersee – A Summer To Remember

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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8. Bregenz – Tranquil Days By The Lake

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

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

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

9. Wachau – Best Wines And A Dose Of History

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 8 Magical Castles In Austria

10. Zell Am See – Pristine Alpine Wonders

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

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

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

11. Hoher Dachstein – The Three-State Mountain

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

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

Suggested Read: Day Trips In Austria

12. Krimml Waterfalls – Austria’s Famous Paradise

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

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

13. Vorarlberg – Land Of Mountains

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

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Hostels In Austria

14. Tyrol – Heaven In The Alps

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

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

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

15. Carinthia – Lakes And Forests

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

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

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

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16. Styria – Witness The Wildlife

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

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

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

17. Burgenland – Taste The Fine Wines

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

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

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18. Hallstatt – Scenic Lake Views

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

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

19. Mostviertel – Old World Charm

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Rivers In Austria

20. Alpbach – Skiing And Sledding

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

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

21. Eisenstadt – Postcard Perfect Sceneries

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

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

Suggested Read: Austria In December

22. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Best Road Trip Ever

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

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

23. Lake Constance – Third Largest Lake In Europe

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

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

Suggested Read: 10 Best Villas In Austria

24. National Park Donau Auen – Into The Wild

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

27. Seewinkel National Park – For Birdwatching

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

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

Suggested Read: Austria’s Most Beautiful Spots

28. St Anton am Arlberg – Best Ski Village

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

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

29. Vienna Woods – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve

Image Credit: Wildfaces by Pixabay

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

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

Suggested Read: Best Honeymoon Destinations In Europe In Winter

30. Krems – Explore Nature And History

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

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

31. Linz – Creative Capital

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

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

Suggested Read: Austria In May

32. Schonbrunn Palace – Heritage Of Austria

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

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

33. Vienna State Opera – Rendezvous With The Culture

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

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

Suggested Read: Austria In November

34. Eisriesenwelt Cave – A Unique Attraction

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

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

Further Read: 8 Salzburg Hotels

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

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Austria

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

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

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

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

Which are the best places to visit in Austria?

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

Which is the most beautiful city in Austria?

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

What is the best way to travel around in Austria?

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

What is a typical Austrian breakfast?

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

Which is the best time to visit Austria?

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

What should I buy in Austria?

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

Is Vienna easy to walk around?

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

When does it snow in Austria?

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

What is Austria famous for?

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

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12 Best Places to Visit in Austria

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

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

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

12. Bad Gastein

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

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

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

11. Worthersee

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

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

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

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

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

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

9. Zillertal Alps

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

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

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

8. Grossglockner Alpine Road

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

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

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

7. St Anton am Arlberg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5. Zell am See

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

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

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

4. Innsbruck

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

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

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

3. Salzkammergut

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

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

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

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

2. Salzburg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Map of Places to Visit in Austria

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Reader interactions.

July 21, 2018 at 2:01 am

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

October 26, 2017 at 12:17 am

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

October 20, 2017 at 4:46 am

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

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• 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 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 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

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.

More on Austria

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

Nov 1, 2021 • 9 min read

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

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

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

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

Grossglockner High Alpine Road 

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

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

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

Krimml Falls 

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

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

Palaces of Vienna 

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

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

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

Eisriesenwelt  

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

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

Best for autumn

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

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

Outdoor adventure in Tyrol

Best for skiing.

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

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

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

Musical Salzburg  

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

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

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

Danube Cycle Path

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

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

Coffeehouse culture in Vienna 

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

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

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

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

Hohe Tauern National Park 

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

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

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

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

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

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

You’re at the right place!

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

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

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

Let’s find out!

2. Salzburg

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

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

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

• Itinerary: A week in Austria

It will allow you to plan your trip very easily!

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

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

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

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

Here are the best places to visit in Vienna:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

During your stay in Salzburg, make sure to visit:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You should book your tickets online by clicking here!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It’s a particularly modern and contemporary city.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Austria has indeed many water sources with therapeutic properties .

The most renowned of the Austrian spas:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prepare for your visit to Minimundus via the official website .

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

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

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

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

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

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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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Top 20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria

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

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

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

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

My favorite highlights…

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

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2. Hallstatt

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

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

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

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

My highlights…

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

3. Salzburg 

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

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

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

My favourite highlights…

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

4. Innsbruck

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

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

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

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

5. Vorarlberg

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

7. Zell am See

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

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

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

8. Mostviertel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

My must-do highlights

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

11. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

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

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

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

12. Nationalpark Gesäuse

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

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

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

13. Saalbach-Hinterglemm

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

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

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

14. St. Gilgen

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

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

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

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

15. Hochosterwitz Castle

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

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

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

16. Krems an der Donau

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

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

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

17. Kitzbuhel

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

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

18. Thayatal National Park

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

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

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

19. Dürnstein

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

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

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

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

20. Faaker See 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Vorarlberg we have a separate post on that area 🙂

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope you have a great time!

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

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

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

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Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Austria

From picturesque villages to unesco world heritage sites, these are some of the most beautiful places in austria..

By: Shubhanjana Das Published: Jan 28, 2024 12:03 PM IST

Discover the enchanting world of Austria, a country that effortlessly weaves the charm of Alpine getaways with the allure of European city escapes. Among the most beautiful places in Austria are gems like Vienna, where imperial palaces and grandeur coexist with the melody of waltzes. Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, enchants with Baroque architecture against an Alpine backdrop.

Innsbruck, surrounded by snowy peaks , invites adventure enthusiasts to ski down its slopes or hike in the nearby mountains. Hallstatt, nestled on the shores of a glacial lake, is a postcard-perfect village frozen in time. Austria is not just a destination; it’s a symphony of experiences – from hiking in the majestic Alps to swimming in crystal-clear lakes, from the thrill of skiing to the grace of waltzing, and from exploring architectural marvels to uncovering the soul of Europe. The most beautiful places in Austria await your discovery!

Best time to visit scenic & beautiful places in Austria

Austria’s tourist season spans May to September, with summer offering ideal weather, long days, and bustling attractions. Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) – April, early May, September, and October – provide easier travel, fewer crowds, good weather, and flexible accommodation options.

Most beautiful and scenic tourist places in Austria

Vienna , Austria’s vibrant capital, harmonises elegance and decadence. This city, once a European powerhouse, now enchants history buffs and music aficionados alike. From the opulent Belvedere Palace with Gustav Klimt’s masterpieces to the imperial gardens of Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna radiates cultural richness. Stroll through the symmetrical lanes of Innere Stadt, unveiling landmarks like St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Vienna State Opera. Ringstrasse’s charm unfolds on a tram ride after savouring Viennese coffee. Explore the whimsical Hundertwasserhaus and take a detour to Kahlenberg for panoramic views. Vienna, blending past and present, stands among the most beautiful places in Austria.

How to reach: By Air: Vienna International Airport is the nearest airport, 19.6 km away

Best places to stay: Vienna Marriott Hotel, InterContinental Vienna

Best time to explore: April-May, September-October

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Graz, Austria’s “City of Design,” seamlessly blends historic charm with modern creativity. Its Altstadt, perched on a bluff, showcases Renaissance and baroque splendours reminiscent of Italy. Amidst red rooftops, the avant-garde Kunsthaus Graz, a spaceship-like art museum, adds a contemporary twist. Murinsel, an artificial island in the Mur River, boasts a futuristic design. Graz’s UNESCO-protected Old Town harmonises with the Eggenberg Palace’s opulence. Nicknamed the “friendly alien” and a UNESCO-protected gem, Graz captivates with its cultural richness, making it one of the most beautiful places in Austria, where history meets mesmerising creativity.

How to reach: By air: Flughafen Graz is the busiest airport in the city

Best places to stay: Palais-Hotel Erzherzog Johann, Schlossberghotel – Das Kunsthotel

Best time to explore: May, September-October

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Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage town in Austria, is a picturesque destination steeped in history. Its Baroque architecture reflects a rich past rooted in salt production. Explore the Dachstein Caves, a remarkable underground network, or visit the Hörnerwerk cavern’s salt lake. For breathtaking views, the 5 Fingers viewing platform hangs dramatically over an Alpine drop. Hallstatt’s allure extends to the oldest salt mine, offering a Skywalk with panoramic views. Schloss Ort, a lakeside castle, adds a touch of romance. Amidst the Salzkammergut’s stunning lakes, Hallstatt stands out, promising an unforgettable scenic experience, making it one of the most scenic places in Austria.

How to reach: By air: Salzburg Airport is the nearest airport, 78.2 km away

Best places to stay: Dormio Resort Obertraun, Hubertus Geniesserhotel Filzmoos

Best time to explore: March to November

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In western Austria lies Alpbach, often hailed the country’s most beautiful village. Amidst Alpine peaks, it’s a hub for mountain tourism. Its rustic charm, seen in scattered Tyrolean chalet houses, contrasts with its role as a political and economic centre. Winter sports enthusiasts and hikers find solace in its landscapes. Culinary delights await at Jausenstation Zottahof, featuring Tyrol cuisine with mountain vistas. A detour to Rattenberg, Austria’s smallest town, offers colourful houses, a rich glass-making history, and scenic river views. This Alpine gem, known for its wooden farmhouses and traditional crafts, is hands down one of the most beautiful places in Tyrol, Austria.

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How to reach: By air: Innsbruck Airport is the nearest airport, 57.3 km away

Best places to stay: Hotel Die Alpabacherin, Alpabacherhof – Mountain & Spa Resort

Best time to explore: June-August

Bregenz, gracing Lake Constance’s shores, exudes Swiss charm in all its glory. As Vorarlberg’s capital, it’s a cultural gem with museums, festivals, and a floating stage at Bregenzer Festspiele. The Festspielhaus, overlooking the lake, is an architectural marvel. Stroll Bregenz’s historic core with St. Martin’s Tower and ascend Pfänderbahn for city and lake views. In lesser-explored Vorarlberg, the Bregenzerwald captivates with quiet valleys, limestone peaks, and charming villages like Schwarzenberg on the KäseStrasse (cheese road). Explore the Angelika Kauffmann Museum and savor local delights at Gasthof Hirschen. A hidden beauty awaits in Bregenz, one of the most beautiful places in Austria.

How to reach: By air: St. Gallen–Altenrhein Airport is the nearest airport, 23.3 km away

Best places to stay: Seehotel Am Kaiserstrand, Alpenloge Design Hotel

Best time to explore: July-August

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Salzburg, a fairytale city famed for “ The Sound of Music ,” enchants with Baroque churches, Mozart’s legacy, and cinematic landscapes. St. Gilgen, by Lake Wolfgangsee, is a picturesque gem. Mozart’s Birthplace, Mozart’s Wohnhaus, and Mozartplatz Square celebrate the composer. The city boasts a Hollywood-ready panorama with the Residenz palace, Festung Hohensalzburg, and the Alps. Avoid crowds with a hike to Augustiner Bräustübl or a cable car ride to Untersberg. The Old Town showcases the Benedictine Abbey of St. Peter and the cathedral. Salzburg, with its history, music, and stunning vistas, stands as one of the most beautiful cities in Austria that deserves a visit.

How to reach: By air: Salzburg Airport is the busiest airport in the city

Best places to stay: Sheraton Grand Salzburg, Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt, Salzburg

Best time to explore: September-October

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Semmering Railway

Unravel the scenic beauty of Austria with the Semmering railway, a UNESCO masterpiece boasting tunnels, viaducts, and bridges. Dating back to 1854, this nostalgic journey through the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s engineering brilliance is best enjoyed by the panoramic train restaurant. Austria hosts other scenic railways, including the Arlberg Railway (Innsbruck to Bludenz) and the Brenner Railway (Innsbruck to Verona), offering breathtaking Alpine views, tunnels, and arched bridges. Immerse yourself in Austria’s charm through these captivating railway adventures, a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

How to reach: By air: Vienna International Airport is the nearest airport, 102.7 km away

Best time to explore: May-June

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Zell am See

Zell am See, an Alpine haven on the shores of Lake Zeller, invites adventure in the Hohe Tauern National Park. In summer, revel in lake activities, hike Schmittenhöhe, and explore the thrilling Grossglockner High Alpine Road. The stunning blue lake offers swimming, cycling, and scenic drives. With a backdrop of lofty peaks, including Kitzsteinhorn, this resort buzzes with outdoor excitement. Dive into Zeller See, cycle its plant-filled shores, and experience mountain thrills through hiking and skiing. Zell am See, a magnet for nature lovers, unfolds as one of the best scenic places in Austria.

How to reach: By air: Salzburg Airport is the nearest airport, 76.7 km away

Best places to stay: Grand Hotel Zell am See, Hotel Salzburgerhof

Best time to explore: August

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Set amidst Tyrol’s majestic peaks, Innsbruck, the proud capital, impresses with its Olympic legacy and top-notch skiing resorts. The historic core boasts the iconic Golden Roof and the panoramic City Tower in the Old Town. Cable car rides from Hungerburg offer stunning Alpine vistas. For culture, explore Hofburg Palace and the crystal marvels at Swarovski Crystal Worlds. This unique city lets you carve powder in the morning and indulge in cultural delights in the afternoon. Don’t miss the thrilling Olympiabobbahn ride in nearby Igls, reaching speeds of 68 mph (109.43 kmph) around 10 curves. Innsbruck, one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria, delivers the best of both worlds.

How to reach: By air: Innsbruck Airport is the busiest airport in the city

Best places to stay: AC Hotel by Marriott Innsbruck, Hotel Innsbruck

Best time to explore: December to April

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Book your stay at Hotel Innsbruck via Agoda.com

Bad Gastein

Bad Gastein, a spa haven in Austria’s Alpine embrace, beckons with Belle Époque charm, thermal springs, and cascading waterfalls. Whether for luxury retreats or active getaways, it’s a gateway to the High Tauern range, offering hiking trails and winter sports. The Alpenblick Hotel, perched above the town, grants alpine vistas, while Bäckerwirtsgut, a family-run gem, serves Austrian specialties like Apfelstrudel. Nestled in the Hohe Tauern, Bad Gastein, with its radon-rich waters, has captivated Romans, Schubert, and Klimt. Dive into Felsentherme’s grottoes or the Gasteiner Heilstollen’s healing radon, and ascend Stubnerkogel for breathtaking views.

How to reach: By air: Salzburg Airport is the nearest airport, 96.6 km away

Best places to stay: DAS.GOLDBERG – Natur – Design und Wellnesshotel, Haus Hirt – Alpine Spa Designhotel

Best time to explore: December to March

Book your stay at Das.Goldberg via Booking.com

Book your stay at Das.Goldberg via Agoda.com

(Feature image credit: DaLiu/Shutterstock)

Related:  25 Most Beautiful Places In Europe — From Colourful Small Towns To Secret Beaches

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

– Is Austria a safe destination for tourists? Austria is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a stable environment.

– What are the options for the means of local commute in Austria? Local commute options include trains, buses, trams, and taxis, providing efficient and well-connected transportation.

– What are some beautiful natural attractions in Austria? Austria boasts stunning natural attractions like the Austrian Alps, Lake Wolfgang, and the Danube River.

– What are some cultural sites known for their beauty in Austria? Cultural sites like Vienna’s Schönbrunn Palace, Salzburg’s Old Town, and Melk Abbey are renowned for their beauty.

– Are there any UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Austria? Austria has several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Historic Centre of Vienna and the Palace and Gardens of Schönbrunn.

– How can I explore Austria’s picturesque villages and countryside? Explore picturesque villages and countryside by car or bike, discovering hidden gems away from tourist crowds.

– Are there any beautiful lakes in Austria? Beautiful lakes in Austria include Lake Wolfgang, Lake Hallstatt, and Lake Neusiedl, offering scenic landscapes.

– How do I enjoy winter sports in Austria? Enjoy winter sports in Austria at popular destinations like St. Anton, Kitzbühel, and Innsbruck.

– How can I explore Austria’s hidden gems that are less touristy? Discover Austria’s hidden gems by exploring lesser-known towns, such as Hallstatt, Bad Gastein, and Bregenz.

– How can I plan a trip to explore the beautiful places in Austria? Plan a trip to Austria by researching destinations, creating an itinerary, booking accommodations, and considering transportation options for a delightful experience.

• places to visit in europe
• travel guide

Shubhanjana Das

An English Major, Shubhanjana is an independent culture and lifestyle journalist with extensive experience in fashion and travel writing. Her bylines have appeared in Vogue, Vice, FirstPost, and Mint Lounge, among others. She is a wannabe wine-taster and given the chance, wants to travel for a living and treats true crime podcasts like her lullaby. .. Read More An avid reader, Shubhanjana loves reading magic realism and surrealism literature. Read Less

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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 Kids Are A Trip™ .

The Ultimate 5 to 7 Days in Austria Itinerary

Last Updated on February 20, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

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

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

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

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Austria?

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

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

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

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

Getting To & Around Austria

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 to 7-Day Austria Itinerary

Day 1 – vienna.

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Vienna

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

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

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

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

Day 2 – Vienna

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

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

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

Day 3 – Vienna

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

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

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

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

Day 4 – Salzburg

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Salzburg

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

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

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

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

Day 5 – Salzburg

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

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

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

Day 6 – Gollinger Waterfall & Hallstatt

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where to Stay in Graz

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

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

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

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

Day 7 – Graz

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

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

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

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

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

Have More Time?

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

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

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

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

Related Posts:

The Perfect One Day in Graz Itinerary

Is Vienna Expensive? A Guide to Prices in Vienna

The Perfect Day Trip to Salzburg from Vienna

About Maggie Turansky

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

would like to know about visiting Styria and Karnten

Hi, Amazing article, helps a lot!

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

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

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Discover must-see places in Austria

Best places to visit in Austria in 2024

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Discover the Best Places to Visit in Austria in 2024 , the Top-Expert Recommended Places to Visit in Austria .

From Vienna to Hallstatt find inspiration among this list of the Nicest Places in Austria , Austria Top Sights , the Most Popular Places to Visit in Austria but also the Best Places to Visit in Austria with Kids or for a Romantic Stay in Austria . 

Book your flights , your accommodation in Austria as well as your activities & tours in Austria , the most Stunningly Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria are waiting for you.

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Secret Spots in Austria , the Most Dramatic Castles in Austria , The Best Things to Do in Austria , as well as the Most Magical Christmas Markets in Austria and the Best Ski Resorts in Austria .

Treat yourself to a romantic stay with your loved one and visit the most beautiful museums, the most beautiful palaces in Vienna , the Most Popular Destination to Visit in Austria .

Stroll through the romantic streets and parks of Vienna, taste local specialties such as Apfelstrudel, a delicious apple dessert.

Vienna is also a destination for families, it is top ranked among the Best Places to Visit in Austria with Kids .  

This destination, ranked among the safest destinations in Europe , offers hundreds of attractions for young and old. Buy your " Skip-the_line Giant Ferris Wheel Ride " today and hop aboard one of Europe's most beautiful Ferris wheels also ranked among the best places in Europe for a marriage proposal !

Treat yourself to a romantic or family cruise on the Danube or an evening of concerts to discover the greatest Austrian composers. Want to experience a magical moment? Discover Vienna at Christmas , its Christmas markets are ranked among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe as well as among the Best Christmas Markets in Austria .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Vienna as well as your airport transfer and accommodation at the best price.

  Where to stay:  " K + K Palais Hotel ". Stay in the heart of Vienna.

2. Salzburg

Salzburg is one of the Stunningly Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria . Did you know that the legendary musical "The Sound of Music" was filmed in Salzburg ? 

Salzburg, one of the Top-Expert Recommended Places to Visit in Austria , is also the birthplace of Mozart. It is a destination for lovers of music and history. Do not miss to visit its incredible fortress overlooking Salzburg: it is ranked among the best castles in Austria .

Stroll through Salzburg and discover its unspoiled historic centre, declared as Word Heritage Site by the UNESCO.

Salzburg is a green city, surrounded by forests, lakes, mountains. Salzburg is also more than 4000 events per year, gourmet restaurants but also dozens of breweries that make Salzburg the Austrian capital of beer.

If you want to experience a magical moment, discover Salzburg at Christmas . This destination is ranked among the most beautiful Christmas markets in Austria and the most beautiful Christmas markets in Europe.

During your stay in Salzburg do not miss a visit to Hallstatt, one of the best hidden gems of Austria  and discover 2 of Austria's Top Sights .

Book your accommodation and tours and activities in Salzburg such as a your admission ticket for the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Salzburg or reach Salzburg by car or train from Munich (2H) or Vienna (3H).

  Where to stay:  " Imlauer Hotel Pitter Salzburg " is a family run 4 star hotel.

This sublime medieval old town is one of Austria's Most Beautiful Destinations . Visit the historic heart of the capital of Styria, one of the Most Incredible Regions in Austria .

During your stay, be sure to visit " Landlust " a sustainable tourism destination awarded the EDEN prize by the European Commission.

Graz  is not only one of the Nicest Places in Austria , it is also the perfect destination for a romantic weekend, a city break with friends or with children.

If you want to experience a fairy tale, come visit Graz during the Christmas holidays , its Christmas market is ranked among the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Austria .

Take good shoes with you to walk the alleys of the historic centre, you can rest regularly on a terrace or in a café and taste the "Austria" s delicatessen ".

Do not waste time and book your flights , accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities in Graz such as a " 2-hour Christmas Market tour ".

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Graz or join Graz from Vienna (2 hours by car, 3 hours by train).

  Where to stay:  " Palais Hotel Erzherzog Johann " situated in the heart of the odl town of Graz.

4. Hallstatt

This is one of Austria's Top Sights . This Austrian village looks like it came out of a postcard.

Hallstatt, one of the Most Beautiful Places in Austria , is a beautiful village located 1 hour by car from Salzburg (2 hours by train).

A replica of this village 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.

5. 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, but today Maria Worth has become one of the most important seaside resorts in Austria and one of the Stunningly Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria .

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

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

  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.

Located in the west of Austria , on the border with Switzerland and Germany , Bregenz, an ancient Roman city, is one of the Most Popular Places to Visit in Austria and a perfect destination for history buffs.

Bregenz also attracts travellers looking for amazing and original cultural events. Every year, in July and August, a music festival takes place on a floating stage on the incredible Lake Constance.

Music lovers can also enjoy the Jazz Festival and the Bregenz Spring Festival, one of the most important cultural festivals in Europe.

Finally, if you are staying in Bregenz, be sure to visit the narrowest house in Europe, located at 29 rue de l'Eglise in Bregenz, it is less than 60 cm wide!

Bregenz, one of the Nicest Places in Austria , is a perfect destination for travellers able to think outside the box, for nature and culture lovers.

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Zurich (1h30 by car).

  Where to stay:   “ Grand Hotel Bregenz ” located 100m from Lake Constance.

7. 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 to visit in Austria 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  Nicest Places in Austria .

  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.

8. Waidhofen an der Ybss 

Mostviertel

Surrounded by lush forest and crossed by a river, Waidhofen an der Ybbs is one of Austria’s most beautiful 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  and discover  Austria's Top Sights .

  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.

If you love the Danube you will love Linz , one of the Most Popular Places to Visit in Austria .

Linz is a destination made for nature lovers with its many parks and the strong presence of the legendary Danube. Linz is also a destination for music lovers with its many concerts, operas, festivals.

You can come to Linz by plane or prefer the train; did you know that Linz central railway station has been awarded the title Austria's most attractive railway station? There are only good reasons to visit one of the Top Expert-Recommended Places to Visit in Austria .

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Blue Danube Airport Linz or join Linz by train from Vienna (2 hours by car or by train from Vienna).

  Where to stay:  " Star Inn Hotel Linz Promenadengalerien ". One of our bestsellers in Linz!

10. Zell am See

Located between Salzburg and Innsbruck , Zell am see is one of Austria's Most Beautiful Destinations .

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, one of the Most Stunningly Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria , 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 one of Austria's Top Sights .

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.

11. Hochosterwitz

Hochosterwitz Castle is considered by Austrians but also by travellers from all over the world to be one of the most beautiful medieval castles in Austria.

This fortress built on top of a 150-metre hill dominates the entire region. No need to stay at the foot of the castle to see it, it is visible more than 30 kilometres around.

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

  Where to stay:  " Hotel Dienstl Gut " located 2 kilometres from the castle, it offers an equestrian centre and a wellness centre.

Lower Austria

If it is famous for its Benedictine abbey, Melk is also famous for two other reasons. The first is the magnificent castles that surround Melk, in particular Schloss Schönbühel and Aggstein Castle, ranked among the most beautiful castles in Austria .

The second is linked to a film: "The name of the rose". Remember the story, one of the main characters, who tells this whole story, is a monk from Melk Abbey. Melk is a perfect destination for lovers of history, architecture, nature, and even movie buffs and one of the Best Places to Visit in Austria . 

Take a walk along the Danube and see the most beautiful castles in Austria. If you come at Christmas be sure to visit the Schallaburg Castle Christmas Market. 

  How to get there:   Book your flights  to Vienna as well as your  accommodation  and  tours and activities  in Austria.

  Where to stay:  " Rathauskeller Melk " located in the Old Town at the foot of Melk Abbey.

13. Podersdorf am See

In winter, it is not uncommon to see people from Vienna descend to Podersdorf am see, with their ice skates in their car boots on their way to the frozen lake of 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 T op Sights , 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. Zillertal Alps Natural Park

Mayrhofen - Tyrol

Discover one of the Most Stunningly Places to Visit in Austria , the Stilluptal Valley, on a moutain hike, in the heart of the Austrian countryside. Leave Mayrhofen (the starting point of the hike is the waterworks between Tuxer Strabe and Sillupbach in Mayrhofen) and walk 13km (about 4h30) to reach the Stillup reservoir and discover this magnificent waterfall.

At the end of this hike accessible to all, you will have the opportunity to eat at the "Gasthaus Wasserfall" a restaurant located around the reservoir, facing the waterfall.

Book your flights to Innsbruck as well as your accommodation and tours and activities in Austria and discover the best natural wonders of Austria .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights  to  Innsbruck (50 min by car).

  Where to stay:  " Brugger Dörfl " surrounded by the Zillertal Alps.

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