Austria is a land of beauty. It’s filled with historic cities, mountains, lakes, and world-class museums. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer, a history lover, or someone who enjoys culture, Austria has something for you. Here’s your ultimate guide to must-visit places in Austria. Let’s get right into it.
Vienna: The Capital Full of History
Vienna is the heart of Austria, and it’s a city where culture meets history. Known for its imperial palaces, music, and great coffee houses, Vienna is a must-see.
Schönbrunn Palace
No trip to Vienna is complete without visiting Schönbrunn Palace. This baroque palace has over 1,400 rooms and used to be the summer residence of Austrian royalty. You can explore its grand gardens for free or take a tour inside to witness royal luxury firsthand.
St. Stephen’s Cathedral
This gothic masterpiece is in the center of Vienna. You can climb to the top for a stunning view of the city. Don’t skip wandering around the cathedral’s crypts where you’ll find tombs and ancient relics.
The MuseumsQuartier
If you’re into art, head to the MuseumsQuartier. This area is full of contemporary galleries, including the Leopold Museum, where you can find works from artists like Egon Schiele and Gustav Klimt. Even if you’re not an art enthusiast, it’s a cool place to walk around.
Salzburg: The Home of Mozart and the Sound of Music
Salzburg is beautiful and charming. It’s the birthplace of Mozart and one of the most photogenic cities in Europe. The old town is packed with museums, historic landmarks, and scenic views.
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Rising over the city, Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest castles in Europe. The fortress has a long history of more than 900 years and offers panoramic views of Salzburg. Take the funicular up to save your legs!
Mirabell Gardens
You may recognize Mirabell Gardens from scenes in The Sound of Music. It’s an iconic spot for both locals and tourists. The well-kept gardens are free to enter and make for a relaxing afternoon stroll.
Salzburg Cathedral
This early baroque cathedral is where Mozart was baptized. It’s an important heritage site that features stunning architectural details like the large domes and intricate reliefs. Take some time to explore it as the interior is just as impressive.
Hallstatt: Austria’s Fairy Tale Village
There’s a reason Hallstatt constantly pops up on postcards. Picturesque and tranquil, this small village by Lake Hallstatt is perfect for a peaceful day trip.
Exploring Lake Hallstatt
Take a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt for unbeatable views of the village. The crystal-clear water, surrounded by towering mountains, feels like something out of a dream. You can also paddleboard if you’re looking for a bit more adventure.
The Hallstatt Salt Mine
Hallstatt’s salt mines are some of the oldest in the world, dating back thousands of years. You can take a tour deep into the mines and learn about the importance of salt trade in shaping the region’s history.
Innsbruck: Explore Austria’s Alpine Capital
Innsbruck is an awesome spot if you want to combine culture with outdoor activities. Nestled in the Alps, this vibrant city is known for its unique mix of imperial architecture and mountain landscapes.
Nordkette Cable Car
If you want to get up close to the Alps, take the Nordkette cable car from Innsbruck. In just 20 minutes, you’ll be at the top of the mountains with breathtaking views of the entire city beneath you. In winter, you can even go skiing or snowboarding right from there.
The Golden Roof
In the heart of Innsbruck’s old town, you’ll find the Golden Roof, a brilliant structure with an ornate, gold-plated balcony. It was built in the 15th century and is one of the country’s most iconic landmarks. Don’t forget your camera!
Ambras Castle
This Renaissance castle hosts a large collection of historic armor and art. It’s a lesser-known site compared to other castles in Austria but full of fascinating exhibitions.
Graz: Austria’s Second-Largest City
Graz may not be as well-known as Vienna or Salzburg, but it’s a gem in its own right. As a UNESCO City of Design, this city is modern yet full of history.
Schlossberg
Schlossberg is a hill in Graz with a clock tower that’s become the symbol of the city. You can walk the stairs to the top or take a funicular. Once up there, you’ll get great 360-degree views of Graz’s red-roofed townhouses.
Murinsel
This funky, modern structure is an artificial island in the middle of the Mur River. Murinsel is made of glass and steel, looking more like a piece of modern art than an island. It has a café and an amphitheater as well and it’s a cool place to chill for a bit.
Eggenberg Palace
Eggenberg Palace is perfect for history buffs. This baroque palace has stunning gardens and a peaceful courtyard. You can join a guided tour to delve deeper into its past and see the elegant state rooms.
Zell am See: For Nature Lovers
Zell am See is your gateway to stunning lakes, hiking trails, and the Austrian Alps. It’s a dream location for anyone who loves outdoor adventures.
Zeller See
This crystal-clear alpine lake offers plenty of activities like swimming, boating, and hiking around its shores. You can also cycle around the lake or simply relax and take in the incredible scenery.
Schmittenhöhe
For breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, take a hike or the cable car up Schmittenhöhe. In winter, it’s a major ski resort with slopes for all levels. In the summer, trails lead through alpine meadows bursting with flowers.
Grossglockner High Alpine Road
If you’re into scenic drives, this is a must. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road takes you through some of the most dramatic mountain scenery in Europe. Be prepared for snow-capped peaks, waterfalls, and wildlife.
The Wachau Valley: A Scenic Wine Region
Close to Vienna, the Wachau Valley is an underrated spot in Austria. Known for its vineyards and historic villages, it’s an ideal day trip if you love wine and history.
Melk Abbey
This huge abbey is perched high above the town of Melk. It’s a stunning baroque building with a library that looks straight out of a movie. Even if you’re not into history, the views alone are worth the visit.
Dürnstein
Make a stop at Dürnstein, a quaint little town famous for its charming streets and ruined castle. You can hike up to the castle to get sweeping views over the Danube River and the surrounding vineyards.
Vineyard Tours
Wachau’s wine is some of Austria’s best, especially Grüner Veltliner. Stop by one of the local wineries for a tasting and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere. If you have time, rent a bike and cycle through the valley as it’s popular for cycling tours.
Styria: Austria’s Green Heart
Styria is sometimes called Austria’s green heart. It’s a lush region of forests, vineyards, and rolling hills. If you want to get off the beaten path, this region is perfect for slow travel and enjoying nature.
Riegersburg Castle
Riegersburg Castle is perched on a volcanic hill, offering some of the best views in Styria. The imposing fortress is over 800 years old and has an intriguing history. If you’re feeling adventurous, try the zipline that takes you from the castle down the hill!
Styrian Wine Road
Like the Wachau Valley, Styria also offers excellent wine. The Styrian Wine Road runs through endless vineyards and cozy villages. Be sure to stop at one of the many Buschenschank (local wine taverns) along the way.
Graz Old Town
The capital of this region, Graz, deserves a visit on its own. The Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its charming streets and squares. Wander your way through, stopping at cafés, boutiques, and historical buildings.
Conclusion
Austria is packed with jaw-dropping landscapes, rich history, and exciting cities. Whether you’re exploring imperial Vienna or hiking in the Alps, there’s something here for everyone. So, start planning your trip and prepare to fall in love with Austria.
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