Along with the recent mountain air and idyllic surroundings, the European nation is dwelling to culturally refined 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 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 energetic metropolis to discover!
However I really 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 gorgeous museums that proudly overlook majestic squares, and I’d extremely advocate visiting Hofburg, the as soon as spectacular dwelling of the Habsburg rulers.
This fusion of fast-paced fashionable residing 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 time, 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 gorgeous 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 beautiful historic centre.Sipping cocktails whereas having fun with lovely views on the 25Hours Resort rooftop bar, The Dachboden Loft (within the seventh District, 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 assume it appears to be like spectacular in each summer time and winter.
The city is crammed with chocolate field fairly Sixteenth-century Alpine homes, and its winding cobbled alleyways are dwelling to quaint cafes and impartial retailers. Some intriguing locations make this space notably fascinating and give you the prospect to bask in mountaineering, 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 time and winter are particular
My highlights…
Taking a stroll alongside the lakefront, crammed with such picturesque surroundings, it seemed prefer it was straight out of a storybook.Exploring the extraordinary ice caves and seeing frozen waterfalls and unbelievable ice formations.Take a look at the salt mine, thought of the oldest on the planet. Youngsters will even adore it there as they’ve an exhilarating miners’ slide!Hiring a standard picket salt boat and exploring the lake!Going to 5 Fingers Viewpoint, which gives one of the 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 fully 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 operating exhibitions there.
Salzburg could also be dwelling to Mozart and all issues extravagant. Nonetheless, for an astounding 70% of abroad guests, The Sound of Music stays the first motive for journey to town, with tour firms all around the city providing their model of the Sound of Music tour. I extremely advocate happening one; they’re quite a lot of 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 completely 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 time
My favorite highlights…
Happening a Sound of Music Tour, which was hours of kitsch enjoyable!Wandering across the lovely Previous City, one of many best-preserved metropolis centres north of the Alps, was brimming with gorgeous 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 crammed with fascinating impartial retailers.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 assumed 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 services, good for individuals who like to hit the slopes.
I like to recommend visiting Ambras Citadel, the People Artwork Museum, and the Courtroom Church. Some fashionable hip bars are on the centre of a thriving nightlife, so I recommend profiting from these, too.
Serenity has its place right here, although, as effectively, and I fell in love with the mild 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 time and winter
My favourite highlights…
Hanging out within the beautiful Previous City, crammed with boutique retailers, 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 unbelievable views of the encircling areas.Taking a cable automobile to Nordkette Mountain Vary and seeing gorgeous Alpine surroundings. Swimming in Lake Achensee, Tirol’s largest lake.
5. Vorarlberg
The mountainous area of Vorarlberg boasts lovely surroundings and gorgeous structure, and I used to be significantly wowed by this place after I visited!
It’s greater than only a new place to discover; it’s significantly a delight to your eyes to witness, and I extremely advocate it to anybody who loves strolling, biking, snowboarding, and pictures!
I personally assume the mountains of Vorarlberg current a singular 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. Certainly one of my private favourites is the Verwall space in Montafon. Verwall in Vorarlberg is likely one of the largest European Safety Areas within the Natura 2000 community.
I really like that the views you possibly can get pleasure from 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 unbelievable dawn hike to the Wartherhorn. Though the early begin of 4am was painful the views on the high of the mountain made it price it. I cherished 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 cherished Graz’s relaxed location. Though the city is overflowing with lovely structure, I really like that town has a youthful vibe.
That is all the way down to its younger, pleasant inhabitants and the handful of spectacular fashionable 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.
Because of the big pupil inhabitants (round 50,000 college students unfold throughout 4 College campuses), the nightlife in Graz is booming!
In fact, when you’re not a lot of an artwork individual and don’t see your self dancing within the late evenings, I recommend visiting the Schloss Eggenberg Parkland Palace Gardens, it’s a calming place with fairly peacocks!
Location: south of the nationLocation MapBest time to go to: Might to September for the perfect climate
My highlights…
Eating on the upscale Restaurant ARTIS the Saffron risotto was divine!Exploring the beautiful Previous City, my favorite spots have 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 prone to seize your consideration is the gorgeous bluer-than-blue lake, Zeller See!
You’ll be able to dive into the beautiful lake and cycle round its picturesque, plant-filled shores. Mountain climbing and snowboarding within the mountains are additionally accessible. You probably have or hire a automobile, I like to recommend driving up excessive onto the very scenic and well-known Grossglockner Street.
Greater than 1,000,000 guests worldwide go to Zell am See yearly in the hunt for new websites and adventures. When the sky’s blue is mirrored in such a transparent lake, it’s a genuinely beautiful sight!
Location: 100 kilometers south of SalzburgLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My favorite highlights…
Making an attempt tandem paragliding which was an unbelievable expertise, the views of the lake and mountains have been gorgeous!Happening an exquisite Panorama Cruise on Lake Zell.
8. Mostviertel
I personally assume 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 mixture of landscapes contributes to the area’s limitless allure and boasts Europe’s largest steady space of pear orchards.
Its chocolate-box surroundings makes it a surprise for adults and youngsters alike and gives museums, monuments, household actions, and the prospect to ski.
I recommend 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.Making an attempt 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. For those who fancy a style of how this nation was and benefit from the expertise of time standing nonetheless, then in my view, Alpbach is the place to go!
I recommend 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 significantly 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 unbelievable area is price exploring!
I personally assume it’s a very gorgeous spot steeped in folklore, mountains, and ski resorts and makes a improbable vacation spot to go to on this nation, both summer time or winter – the surroundings is actually breathtaking!
Count on miles of strolling and climbing trails throughout nature, recent air, and clear mountain streams. Historical past lovers can even benefit from the record-breaking suspension footbridge that’s Highline179 and I’d extremely recommend visiting.
This exceptional construction is 114 meters excessive and 406 meters lengthy; it connects Ehrenberg Citadel to the stays of the Seventeenth-century Roman Fortress Claudia available in the market city of Reutte.
Location: western a part of the nationLocation MapBest time to go to: summer time or winter
My favorite highlights…
Visiting the suspended terrace of Café 3440 (pictured above), which sits 3,440 m above sea degree and gives unbelievable uninterrupted panoramic views of the gorgeous Alpine surroundings.Happening the Nordkette Cable Automobile, a gondola raise from Innsbruck to the Nordkette, which gives extra beautiful views.Experiencing the unbelievable mountaintop viewing platform which prolonged an unbelievable 9 meters out over the mountain, being a bit afraid of heights it was a bit scary although!
11. Grossglockner Excessive Alpine Street
I believe this well-known winding, precarious, superbly scenic highway is wow-inducing! It is going to 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 via the Pasterze glacier.
In my view, it’s an excellent strategy to expertise the panorama at its greatest, as you’ll move via mountain forests, alpine meadows, ice plains, and sheer cliff faces.
You’ll be able to rent a classic automobile, take a bus, journey a bike, go by bike, or enterprise by foot; both manner, the expertise is jaw-dropping! Villa Orania and Schiefe Alm Resort Dangerous Gastein are beautiful 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 unbelievable viewing platforms Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, Edelweißspitze and Fuscher Törl.Staying in a single day on the lovely Wanderhotel Taurerwirt which was a standard 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 ready 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 very best and hottest amongst visiting hikers – reaching a staggering 2369 meters in top.
I personally assume artists, photographers, and journey bloggers would reap the advantages of visiting such a gorgeous setting – when you can attain the highest!
Location: Weng 2, 8913 AdmontLocation MapBest time to go to: summer time
My private highlights…
Tenting out in a single day on the Campingplatz Forstgarten which was an idyllic spot with beautiful views of the peaks.Mountain climbing the scenic path which began in Haindlkarhütte and took me to Gesäuse Nationwide Park through Gsengscharte. The surroundings of the mountains made the 4 hour trek price it!
13. Saalbach-Hinterglemm
Within the district of Zell am See, you will discover a municipality recognized 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 when 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 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 a couple of 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 time or winter
My favorite highlights…
Making an attempt 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 via 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 assumed it was charming, particularly when you’re searching for a spot crammed with Austrian custom!
The legendary Oxen Cross island may 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 automobile to the height instantly from the village. It’s a significantly gorgeous view!
Location: 30 kilometers east of SalzburgLocation MapBest time to go to: spring to autumn
My private highlights…
Taking the reasonably troublesome 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 Automobile Zwolferhorn Cable Automobile which took us over the picturesque surroundings of Hörndl Mountain.
15. Hochosterwitz Citadel
Many think about it essentially the most spectacular medieval fort within the nation and with good motive. It stands proudly on high of a 160-meter-high Dolomite rock formation, and I personally assume it appears to be like like one thing out of a fairytale!
Between Easter and the top of October, guests are allowed inside sure elements of the fort every year and I’d extremely advocate a go to when you’re right here throughout these months.
I’d recommend strolling alongside the 620-metre pathway via 14 intriguing fortified gates earlier than you attain the gorgeous 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…
Testing the memento store which had distinctive presents and souvenirs together with classic model 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 cherished this place, I assumed it was charming, relaxed, and extremely photogenic!
Located on the gateway to the World Heritage cultural panorama of the Wachau, it shows one of the gorgeous stretches of river valley in Europe so don’t neglect to deliver your digital camera!
For elegant and distinctive locations to remain I recommend 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 via the beautiful Wachau Valley. The surroundings was crammed with sprawling vineyards, historic castles and fairly conventional villages.Eating on a meatless Austrian goulash and listening to dwell music at Salzstadl restaurant.
17. Kitzbuhel
For those who’re an avid skier and searching for one of many high 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. As we speak, 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…
Making an attempt starting snowboarding classes within the winter, the snowfall and surroundings in the course of the snowboarding season is significantly gorgeous.Going for a calming 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 when you’re within the Czech Republic) cuts throughout the canyon, making for actually spectacular views.
I personally assume this deserves a spot on this checklist for its unbelievable surroundings, its quite a few 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…
Mountain climbing the Einsiedlerweg Hardegg path which was a reasonably simple round stroll and took us simply over two hours to complete. I cherished that it took us close to the Czech border and the river.Stopping by the reward store which had distinctive souvenirs and botanical photograph books.
19. Dürnstein
I used to be an enormous fan of this virtually impossibly photogenic spot! Durnstein, on the Danube, is understood 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 just plan your journey to this wondrous space in the summertime when it’s busy with guests and vacationers and there’s a actual buzz in regards to the place. Durnstein primarily closes up within the winter.
It’s a dream for photographers, with giant, sweeping landscapes, excessive hilltops, and gorgeous structure. The fort ruins sit excessive up on the inexperienced hills towards the blue sky, making for some good pictures.
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 cherished the grilled portobello mushrooms and all you possibly can 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 one of the lovely – famed for its wonderful clear azure water.
After I visited, I fell fully in love with this lovely spot and its tranquil vibe. I additionally cherished that the lake stretched on for miles!
In style with locals and vacationers alike, you possibly can bathe and go boating right here, however I’d recommend simply kicking again and taking within the lovely surroundings! Take pleasure in!
Location: Carinthia, southern a part of the countryLocation MapBest time to go to: summer time
My highlights…
Biking alongside the peaceable round path from Faaker See to Vršič-Cross to Wurzenpass.Hiring a free rowboat from Karnerhof’s non-public seaside and exploring the gorgeous waters.