Top Places to Visit in Austria
Imagine Austria and your mind might well drift to the lavish palaces and coffeehouses of Vienna, the snow-white peaks of the Tyrolean Alps, the river romance of the Danube, and Mozart symphonies ringing out in the baroque concert halls of Salzburg.
If this is your first visit, you’ll undoubtedly want to see all the incredible sights. However, there is far more to this pocked-sized, landlocked country than meets the eye.
Whether you are heading high into the glaciated mountains of Hohe Tauern National Park, tuning into the latest tech wizardry in future-focused Graz, or tripping along the vineyard-draped wine roads of southern Styria, Austria richly rewards those who dare to deviate from the well-trodden track.
1. Zell am See
Sitting smugly on the shores of a breathtaking blue lake and buttressed by lofty peaks, Zell am See is a knockout. The cheerful Alpine resort has sensational wilderness on its doorstep, including the glacier-capped Kitzsteinhorn, where you can embark on a glacier trail, kick back on a snow beach, or spend the night in an igloo. It’s perfect for dipping into the ravishing mountains of Hohe Tauern National Park.
The resort has a real outdoor buzz in summer, ideal for swimming, boating, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding on the lake. For hikers, a cable-car zips up to Schmittenhöhe, connecting to the 17-km Pinzgauer Spaziergang, one of Austria’s most memorable day hikes, offering exhilarating views of the country’s highest peak, Grossglockner.
Planning tip: Dodge peak-season crowds by visiting as soon as the snow begins to melt in late May or in autumn before the first flakes fall.
2. Vienna
Few cities move so effortlessly between past and present as Vienna, where Habsburg emperors ruled for 600 years. The pomp and splendor can be almost overwhelming as you waltz through vast, exuberantly gilded palaces like the Hofburg and Schönbrunn.
The music of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss resonates in some of the world’s most opulent concert halls. Moreover, enjoying coffee can be a regal affair at places like Café Central, where all the 19th-century bigwigs once gathered.
However, venture beyond the big-hitters of the Innere Stadt and you’ll discover a liveable, loveable capital with a vibrant urban beat, sprawling parks along the banks of the Danube, and innovative cuisine at markets like Naschmarkt, where Vienna embraces street food.
Planning tip: As night descends and the city twinkles, take a self-guided tour along the monumental Ringstrasse boulevard via trams 1 and 2.
3. Linz
Other Austrian cities flaunt fairy-tale charm, but Linz leaps headfirst into the 21st century. This tech-savvy city features a dynamic cultural scene and a pioneering spirit in avant-garde art and architecture, helping it earn UNESCO City of Media Arts status.
At the top of any itinerary should be Ars Electronica Center, where visitors can interact with robots, animate digital objects, and even (virtually) travel to outer space. Its counterpart across the Danube, Lentos, houses a vast collection of modern art, including pieces by Warhol and Klimt.
Planning tip: Tune into the future of art and technology at the Ars Electronica Festival held in early September.
4. Salzburg
On the banks of the fast-flowing Salzach River, Salzburg captivates with its brilliant Baroque architecture and the stunning Hohensalzburg Fortress. The city is steeped in musical history, known as the birthplace of Mozart.
You can explore trails around the cliffs of Mönchsberg for fresh Alpine air or wander through beautiful parks and gardens. Enjoy the local brewery scene for a taste of Austria’s beer culture.
Planning tip: Salzburg can be overwhelming in peak season; visit during spring or autumn for a more peaceful experience.
5. Graz and the Styrian Wine Roads
With a castle high on a bluff and an Altstadt full of Renaissance courtyards, Graz is the perfect base for exploring the picturesque region of Styria. The vineyard-strewn hills create Austria’s answer to Tuscany, offering cozy farmhouses and inviting wineries ready for tastings.
Planning tip: The Weinlesefest (wine harvest festival) occurs on the last weekend in September, a great time to partake in local festivities.
6. Bregenzerwald
Bregenzerwald is perfect for those looking to escape the crowds. This serene region, characterized by lush dairy pastures and charming villages, offers endless opportunities for hiking and cross-country skiing, making it ideal for nature lovers.
Planning tip: Exploring the area’s KäseStrasse (cheese road) is a must for food enthusiasts looking to taste local cheeses.
7. Innsbruck
The stunning Nordkette Alps rise above Innsbruck, charming visitors with both mountain adventures and cultural experiences. The city serves as a gateway to thrilling skiing and snowboarding while offering imperial architecture to explore.
Planning tip: The Innsbruck Welcome Card provides perks such as free public transport and discounts on local attractions.
8. The Wachau
The Wachau valley captures the essence of Austria with its vineyards, orchards, and medieval castles perched on hillsides. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a fantastic area to explore on foot or by bike.
Planning tip: Trains run from Vienna to Krems and Melk, making it a perfect day trip from the capital.
9. Bad Gastein
Nestled in the Hohe Tauern mountains, Bad Gastein enchants visitors with its thermal springs and breathtaking natural beauty. The town offers spa experiences for rejuvenation amidst stunning alpine landscapes.
Planning tip: Overnight visitors can access the Gastein Card, which includes free local transport and discounts on activities.
10. Salzkammergut Lakes
For picturesque lake scenes, the Salzkammergut region is unparalleled. Hallstatt stands out as a must-see, with its enchanting views and rich history, including a visit to the world’s oldest salt mines.
Planning tip: Enjoy the beauty of the lakes during spring and autumn when the tourist crowds thin out.
11. Steyr and Nationalpark Kalkalpen
Upper Austria offers hidden gems, with the charming town of Steyr providing a romantic backdrop for exploration and relaxation. The nearby Nationalpark Kalkalpen is perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Planning tip: Visit during the fall for a stunning display of golden autumn colors.
12. St Anton am Arlberg
Known for its exceptional skiing, St Anton am Arlberg is a paradise for snow enthusiasts. The area offers diverse outdoor activities year-round, including hiking and mountain biking.
Planning tip: In the summer months, visitors receive a St Anton Summer Card, providing free access to many local attractions.
