Along with the recent mountain air and idyllic surroundings, the European nation is residence to culturally subtle cities, quirky locations, and breathtaking structure! I’m an enormous fan, and from my time exploring this refined and picturesque nation, listed here are my favorite spots…
1. Vienna
Because the capital, Vienna is maybe the town most related to Austrian life, however I believe that doesn’t make it any much less enticing.
Each time I go to, the elegant metropolis is buzzing with pleasure—road theatre, ballets, operas, musicals, artwork galleries, and exhibits make it a dynamic and vigorous metropolis to discover!
However I like that this contemporary flavour doesn’t detract from the custom on this splendid metropolis. There are a number of imperial palaces and a few beautiful museums that proudly overlook majestic squares, and I’d extremely advocate visiting Hofburg, the as soon as spectacular residence of the Habsburg rulers.
This fusion of fast-paced trendy dwelling and serene historic structure makes Vienna a very spectacular metropolis. I defy you to not fall in love with it—it’s a surprising gem!
Tackle: northeastern a part of the nationLocation MapBest time to go to: spring and summer season, however winter for the Christmas Markets
My favourite highlights…
Catching a efficiency on the Golden Corridor or in one among their lovely historic church buildings for an beautiful and cultured expertise.Visiting the world-famous Schönbrunn Palace and the beautiful Rathaus Vienna/Metropolis Corridor.Attending the world-famous Vienna Opera Ball at Wiener Staatsoper (the State Opera Home).Going for a Viennese espresso, a strudel, and people-watching within the attractive historic centre.Sipping cocktails whereas having fun with lovely views on the 25Hours Resort rooftop bar, The Dachboden Loft (within the seventh District, the town’s hipster district).
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2. Hallstatt
Now well-known with Instagrammers, this small scenic city overlooking the serene waters of Hallstatt Lake is one among my favorite locations in Europe. I additionally suppose it seems to be spectacular in each summer season and winter.
The city is full of chocolate field fairly Sixteenth-century Alpine homes, and its winding cobbled alleyways are residence to quaint cafes and impartial outlets. Some intriguing locations make this space significantly attention-grabbing and give you the prospect to bask in mountain climbing, mountain climbing, and boating.
I like to recommend visiting The Beinhaus (bone home), which shows stacks of human stays taken there because of the scarcity of grave areas. Though it sounds morbid, the expertise could be very completely different; there’s something extraordinary and humbling about visiting the Beinhaus.
In my view, the ice and salt caves, with their spectacular subterranean salt lake, are additionally price visiting and actually spectacular (the funicular railway connects Hallstatt to Salzwelten).
Tackle: Salzkammergut area, 70 kilometers southeast of SalzburgLocation MapBest time to go to: each summer season and winter are particular
My highlights…
Taking a stroll alongside the lakefront, full of such picturesque surroundings, it regarded prefer it was straight out of a storybook.Exploring the extraordinary ice caves and seeing frozen waterfalls and unimaginable ice formations.Try the salt mine, thought of the oldest on the planet. Kids can even find it irresistible there as they’ve an exciting miners’ slide!Hiring a conventional picket salt boat and exploring the lake!Going to 5 Fingers Viewpoint, which presents probably the most spectacular views within the Alps. Seeing the colourful half-timbered homes within the central Market Sq. and having dinner on the open-air restaurant terrace of Rudolfsturm across the lake. I extremely advocate the spinach dumplings.
3. Salzburg
I utterly fell for Salzburg’s charms; that is additionally the place for music followers! It additionally celebrates its accolade as Mozart’s birthplace by permitting guests into the house the place Mozart was born and working exhibitions there.
Salzburg could also be residence to Mozart and all issues extravagant. Nonetheless, for an astounding 70% of abroad guests, The Sound of Music stays the first purpose for journey to the town, with tour corporations all around the city providing their model of the Sound of Music tour. I extremely advocate occurring one; they’re numerous enjoyable!
Additionally brimming with distinctive galleries and museums, a wealthy array of eating places, and a various number of purchasing alternatives, from farmer’s markets to upmarket shops, I defy you to not fall in love with this totally charming metropolis, like I did!
Location: northern a part of the nation close to the German border.Location MapBest time to go to: spring and summer season
My favorite highlights…
Happening a Sound of Music Tour, which was hours of kitsch enjoyable!Wandering across the lovely Outdated City, one of many best-preserved metropolis centres north of the Alps, was brimming with beautiful baroque structure.Listening to well-known Mozart items carried out contained in the historic fortress fort on the spectacular Mirabell Palace and Gardens. Wandering down Getreidgasse, an enthralling Medieval purchasing road full of attention-grabbing impartial outlets.Going for a Mozart Dinner Live performance on the Baroque Corridor of St Peter`s Abbey.Experiencing Salzburg’s Beer Halls, my favorite was Augustiner Bräustübl Tavern, which had a backyard connected to a monk’s brewery.
4. Innsbruck
I believed this was a surprising Alpine gem! The snow-topped mountains and tall, vibrant buildings make it a postcard-worthy alpine vacation spot.
It has a number of well-managed ski resorts and wonderful winter sports activities amenities, good for individuals who like to hit the slopes.
I like to recommend visiting Ambras Fortress, the People Artwork Museum, and the Court docket Church. Some stylish hip bars are on the centre of a thriving nightlife, so I counsel profiting from these, too.
Serenity has its place right here, although, as effectively, and I fell in love with the light tempo of life and the various luxurious thermal spas!
Location: Tyrol within the western a part of the nationLocation MapBest time to go to: summer season and winter
My favourite highlights…
Hanging out within the attractive Outdated City, full of boutique outlets, cafes, and eating places. Don’t miss Oniriq for award-winning eating and Strudel-Cafe Kröll for espresso and pastries.Visiting Tyrol Panorama, which had a museum and unimaginable views of the encompassing areas.Taking a cable automotive to Nordkette Mountain Vary and seeing beautiful Alpine surroundings. Swimming in Lake Achensee, Tirol’s largest lake.
5. Vorarlberg
The mountainous area of Vorarlberg boasts lovely surroundings and beautiful structure, and I used to be critically wowed by this place after I visited!
It’s greater than only a new place to discover; it’s critically a delight to your eyes to witness, and I extremely advocate it to anybody who loves strolling, biking, snowboarding, and images!
I personally suppose the mountains of Vorarlberg current a novel and creative view for any hiker, explorer, or artist. The landscapes between Lake Constance and the mountains are good for lengthy walks, particularly with the mountains reaching as much as 2,000 metres.
Vorarlberg has a number of pure wonders. One among my private favourites is the Verwall space in Montafon. Verwall in Vorarlberg is without doubt one of the largest European Safety Areas within the Natura 2000 community.
I like that the views you may take pleasure in as you hike alongside its routes are as lovely and various because the mountains!
Location: Western a part of the nation Location MapBest time to go to: June to September
My private highlights…
Happening an unimaginable dawn hike to the Wartherhorn. Though the early begin of 4am was painful the views on the prime of the mountain made it price it. I beloved listening to all of the cowbells too!Going for cocktails on the funky Lust Cafe- Bar in Brennan within the small city of Bregenz.
6. Graz
Regardless of being Austria’s second-largest metropolis, I beloved Graz’s relaxed location. Though the city is overflowing with lovely structure, I like that the town has a youthful vibe.
That is all the way down to its younger, pleasant inhabitants and the handful of spectacular trendy buildings dotted round.
There are a lot of nice issues to do in Graz. This metropolis has a vibrant arts centre that enhances its Renaissance courtyards and baroque palaces.
Due to the big pupil inhabitants (round 50,000 college students unfold throughout 4 College campuses), the nightlife in Graz is booming!
After all, in case you’re not a lot of an artwork individual and don’t see your self dancing within the late evenings, I counsel visiting the Schloss Eggenberg Parkland Palace Gardens, it’s a soothing place with fairly peacocks!
Location: south of the nationLocation MapBest time to go to: Might to September for the very best climate
My highlights…
Eating on the upscale Restaurant ARTIS the Saffron risotto was divine!Exploring the beautiful Outdated City, my favorite spots had been upTown Artwork and the charming Cafe Mitte.
7. Zell am See
Once you go to Zell am See, I can inform you you will note some improbable sights! The primary one more likely to seize your consideration is the gorgeous bluer-than-blue lake, Zeller See!
You may dive into the attractive lake and cycle round its picturesque, plant-filled shores. Climbing and snowboarding within the mountains are additionally out there. You probably have or hire a automotive, I like to recommend driving up excessive onto the very scenic and well-known Grossglockner Highway.
Greater than one million guests worldwide go to Zell am See yearly in quest of new websites and adventures. When the sky’s blue is mirrored in such a transparent lake, it’s a genuinely attractive sight!
Location: 100 kilometers south of SalzburgLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My favorite highlights…
Attempting tandem paragliding which was an unimaginable expertise, the views of the lake and mountains had been beautiful!Happening a beautiful Panorama Cruise on Lake Zell.
8. Mostviertel
I personally suppose Mostviertel is Decrease Austria’s most fascinating area. It combines rolling inexperienced meadows within the North with snow-laced rugged peaks within the South.
This mix of landscapes contributes to the area’s countless appeal and boasts Europe’s largest steady space of pear orchards.
Its chocolate-box surroundings makes it a surprise for adults and kids alike and presents museums, monuments, household actions, and the prospect to ski.
I counsel attempting Resort Kartause Gaming or Zur Linde for lodge choices on this space.
Location: Decrease Austria, 100 kilometers west of ViennaLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My private highlights…
Going snowshoeing within the winter and exploring the magical snowy slopes.Attempting cross-country snowboarding.
9. Alpbach
Alpbach has been voted the prettiest village within the nation, and after I visited I instantly noticed why!
The candy village is nestled between a cluster of majestic snow-capped mountains, permitting entry to the proper ski slopes whereas sustaining a strong alpine custom.
Alpbach is stuffed with picturesque picket farmhouses, cattle fields, and locals expert in conventional crafts. When you fancy a style of how this nation was once and benefit from the expertise of time standing nonetheless, then in my view, Alpbach is the place to go!
I counsel attempting Bikepension Gästehaus Larch Alpbach or Alphof Resort Alpbach for locations to remain right here.
Location: Tyrol, western a part of the nationLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My private highlights…
Going tubing in Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau within the winter, it’s critically enjoyable!Tasting schnapps at Schnapsbrennerei Moserhof native distellery and Gasthof Zirmalm a cute mountain inn.
10. Tirol
Inside lovely Tirol lies the historic outdated city of Innsbruck, which I discussed above. This unimaginable area is price exploring!
I personally suppose it’s a very beautiful spot steeped in folklore, mountains, and ski resorts and makes a improbable vacation spot to go to on this nation, both summer season or winter – the surroundings is really breathtaking!
Anticipate miles of strolling and mountain climbing trails throughout nature, recent air, and clear mountain streams. Historical past lovers may also benefit from the record-breaking suspension footbridge that’s Highline179 and I’d extremely counsel visiting.
This outstanding construction is 114 meters excessive and 406 meters lengthy; it connects Ehrenberg Fortress to the stays of the Seventeenth-century Roman Fortress Claudia out there city of Reutte.
Location: western a part of the nationLocation MapBest time to go to: summer season or winter
My favorite highlights…
Visiting the suspended terrace of Café 3440 (pictured above), which sits 3,440 m above sea stage and presents unimaginable uninterrupted panoramic views of the gorgeous Alpine surroundings.Happening the Nordkette Cable Automotive, a gondola raise from Innsbruck to the Nordkette, which presents extra attractive views.Experiencing the unimaginable mountaintop viewing platform which prolonged an unimaginable 9 meters out over the mountain, being a bit afraid of heights it was a bit scary although!
11. Grossglockner Excessive Alpine Highway
I believe this well-known winding, precarious, superbly scenic highway is wow-inducing! It should lead you to the center of the Hohe Tauern Nationwide Park in addition to up the giddy heights of the Grossglockner (Austria’s tallest mountain), passing by the Pasterze glacier.
In my view, it’s a super technique to expertise the panorama at its finest, as you’ll go by mountain forests, alpine meadows, ice plains, and sheer cliff faces.
You may rent a classic automotive, take a bus, journey a bike, go by bike, or enterprise by foot; both method, the expertise is jaw-dropping! Villa Orania and Schiefe Alm Resort Dangerous Gastein are attractive lodging choices within the space.
Location: states of Salzburg and CarinthiaLocation MapBest time to go to: open early Might to early November
My private highlights…
Stopping on the unimaginable viewing platforms Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, Edelweißspitze and Fuscher Törl.Staying in a single day on the lovely Wanderhotel Taurerwirt which was a conventional chalet-style Austrian lodge situated in a surprising spot at base of the mountains.
12. Nationalpark Gesäuse
The most recent of this nation’s lovely Nationwide Parks, lovely Gesäuse, is about in mountain ridges, deep valleys, and dense forests.
I believe it’s the proper location for exploring unspoiled nature and is a favorite for rafting connoisseurs and hikers.
Of the six mountain peaks over 2000 meters within the park, Hocktor is the best and hottest amongst visiting hikers – reaching a staggering 2369 meters in peak.
I personally suppose artists, photographers, and journey bloggers would reap the advantages of visiting such a good looking setting – in case you can attain the highest!
Location: Weng 2, 8913 AdmontLocation MapBest time to go to: summer season
My private highlights…
Tenting out in a single day on the Campingplatz Forstgarten which was an idyllic spot with attractive views of the peaks.Climbing the scenic path which began in Haindlkarhütte and took me to Gesäuse Nationwide Park by way of Gsengscharte. The surroundings of the mountains made the 4 hour trek price it!
13. Saalbach-Hinterglemm
Within the district of Zell am See, you could find a municipality identified for its snowboarding, mountain biking, and different tough and difficult out of doors sports activities.
It’s situated within the Saalbach Valley, which has some breathtaking views at any time of day, particularly in case you’re coming in from Bründlkopf.
This peaceable location primarily consists of small cities and has a number of transport hyperlinks – together with Zell am See, which is round 20km away.
The city itself is primarily oriented in the direction of tourism, however that doesn’t make it any much less of an ideal place for exploring and taking up the outside and all it has to supply, I stayed in an eco-hotel right here for just a few days and I fell in love with the uncrowded, lovely and tranquil landscapes right here!
Location: 90 kilometers southwest of SalzburgLocation MapBest time to go to: summer season or winter
My favorite highlights…
Attempting snowboarding classes within the winter, which was a enjoyable expertise!Staying on the eco-friendly Gartenhotel Theresia which had natural meals, an onsite spa and a pure swimming pool.
14. St. Gilgen
A stroll by the village of St. Gilgen (in Salzburg) is a welcome breath of recent air for any journey. The city takes you by the northern shore of Lake Wolfgangsee and is coupled with magnificence and trendy aptitude.
It’s a village teeming to the highest with traditions, tradition, structure, and distinctive vacationer areas. I believed it was charming, particularly in case you’re in search of a spot full of Austrian custom!
The legendary Oxen Cross island could be discovered close by, subsequent to Fürberg Cove; each can supply any vacation explorer a sight to behold.
Lastly, I like to recommend taking the Zwölferhorn Mountain cable automotive to the height instantly from the village. It’s a critically beautiful view!
Location: 30 kilometers east of SalzburgLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My private highlights…
Taking the reasonably troublesome mountain climbing path from Reid to St. Gilgen which took us round two and half hours to finish and took us previous the scenic Wolfgangsee Lake and thick forests.Taking a journey on the Zwolferhorn Cable Automotive Zwolferhorn Cable Automotive which took us over the picturesque surroundings of Hörndl Mountain.
15. Hochosterwitz Fortress
Many think about it essentially the most spectacular medieval fort within the nation and with good purpose. It stands proudly on prime of a 160-meter-high Dolomite rock formation, and I personally suppose it seems to be like one thing out of a fairytale!
Between Easter and the tip of October, guests are allowed inside sure elements of the fort every year and I’d extremely advocate a go to in case you’re right here throughout these months.
I’d counsel strolling alongside the 620-metre pathway by 14 intriguing fortified gates earlier than you attain the beautiful façade of the fort. Attempt the Artwork Lodge or Chalet Resort Senger if you wish to keep close to right here.
Tackle: Hochosterwitz 1, 9314 LaunsdorfLocation MapBest time to go to: April to October
My highlights…
Trying out the memento store which had distinctive items and souvenirs together with classic fashion pendants and documentary DVD’s.Taking an Instaworthy shot of the fort from the close by village of Sankt Georgen am Längsee.
16. Krems an der Donau
Krems an der Donau is a postcard-pretty riverside city in Decrease Austria’s Danube’s Wachau Valley vacationer area.
It’s famend for its wine manufacturing and delightful historic centre (which has earned it a UNESCO Heritage Web site standing) and I beloved this place, I believed it was charming, relaxed, and extremely photogenic!
Located on the gateway to the World Heritage cultural panorama of the Wachau, it shows probably the most beautiful stretches of river valley in Europe so don’t neglect to deliver your digital camera!
For elegant and distinctive locations to remain I counsel attempting Wein-Intestine Hutter or Gourmethotel Am Förthof.
Location Decrease Austria round 70 km west of Vienna.Location MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My favorite highlights…
Happening a scenic cruise which took us on a spherical journey by the attractive Wachau Valley. The surroundings was full of sprawling vineyards, historic castles and fairly conventional villages.Eating on a meatless Austrian goulash and listening to reside music at Salzstadl restaurant.
17. Kitzbuhel
When you’re an avid skier and in search of one of many prime ski resorts within the nation then look no additional than Kitzbuhel!
Legends, together with three-time Olympic medallist Toni Sailer, have been born on these slopes so that you’ll be in nice firm!
However fairly Kitzbuhel started its life within the Sixteenth century as a mining city catering to silver and copper mining. Right now, in my view, it nonetheless has an enthralling historic really feel and has saved a few of its medieval structure.
Location: Tyrol, western a part of the countryLocation MapBest time to go to: each season has its advantages
My highlights…
Attempting starting snowboarding classes within the winter, the snowfall and surroundings throughout the snowboarding season is critically beautiful.Going for a soothing Pomegranate Cream Pack Therapy at Kitz Spa.
18. Thayatal Nationwide Park
Thayatal Nationwide Park is situated near the border with the Czech Republic. This distinctive location is the nation’s smallest nationwide park and one among central Europe’s final pure valleys.
The park itself is technically two parks cut up throughout the border. The panorama consists of a deep canyon with steep slopes and quite a few rock formations.
The Thaya River (or the Dyje River in case you’re within the Czech Republic) cuts throughout the canyon, making for actually spectacular views.
I personally suppose this deserves a spot on this record for its unimaginable surroundings, its quite a few mountain climbing trails, its well-preserved fort ruins, and its wildlife recognizing, together with the European otter, the black stork, and the Wild Cat.
Tackle: Merkersdorf 90, 2082 HardeggLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My favorite highlights…
Climbing the Einsiedlerweg Hardegg path which was a reasonably straightforward round stroll and took us simply over two hours to complete. I beloved that it took us close to the Czech border and the river.Stopping by the reward store which had distinctive souvenirs and botanical picture books.
19. Dürnstein
I used to be an enormous fan of this nearly impossibly photogenic spot! Durnstein, on the Danube, is thought for its lovely buildings and scenic riverside location.
It’s additionally a historic hotspot for anybody wishing to go to the fort the place the Lionheart, Richard the First of England, was as soon as imprisoned!
Nonetheless, I like to recommend that you simply plan your journey to this wondrous space in the summertime when it’s busy with guests and vacationers and there’s a actual buzz concerning the place. Durnstein basically closes up within the winter.
It’s a dream for photographers, with giant, sweeping landscapes, excessive hilltops, and beautiful structure. The fort ruins sit excessive up on the inexperienced hills in opposition to the blue sky, making for some good photographs.
Location: Decrease Austria, 80km west of ViennaLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My private highlights…
Sampling wine at Weingut Bohmer, I extremely advocate attempting the Sauvignon Blanc – it was scrumptious.Eating on Austrian delicacies at Küffer Keller, I beloved the grilled portobello mushrooms and all you may eat salad bar!
20. Faaker See
Faaker See is an alpine lake within the state of Carinthia. It’s the state’s fifth-largest lake and probably the most lovely – famed for its wonderful clear azure water.
Once I visited, I fell utterly in love with this lovely spot and its tranquil vibe. I additionally beloved that the lake stretched on for miles!
Fashionable with locals and vacationers alike, you may bathe and go boating right here, however I’d counsel simply kicking again and taking within the lovely surroundings! Get pleasure from!
Location: Carinthia, southern a part of the countryLocation MapBest time to go to: summer season
My highlights…
Biking alongside the peaceable round path from Faaker See to Vršič-Move to Wurzenpass.Hiring a free rowboat from Karnerhof’s personal seashore and exploring the beautiful waters.