20 Best Places to Visit in Austria & Things to Do

The Alps are a famous mountainous region spanning several countries in Europe, most notably Austria. If you’re looking for a vacation that offers something for everyone, Austria is a great choice! This fascinating country is home to stunning landscapes, medieval towns, and world-class ski resorts.

Austria is a beautiful country in the Alps that offers something for everyone. If you’re looking for a vacation that features stunning landscapes, beautiful buildings, medieval towns, and world-class ski resorts, Austria is the perfect destination.

Some of the best places to visit in Austria include the Alps, Salzburg, Vienna, and Innsbruck.

The Alps provide some of the most picturesque scenery in the country, while Salzburg is known for its charming architecture and history.

Vienna is the capital city and offers a wealth of cultural attractions, and Innsbruck is a popular ski resort town.

No matter what your interests are, Austria has something to offer. So be sure to add this amazing country to your travel bucket list.

Best Places to Visit in Austria

1.City of Art & Music; Vienna

The capital city and largest city of Austria, Vienna, is a city of grandeur and elegance.

Situated on the banks of the Danube River, Vienna is renowned for its beautiful Baroque architecture, ornate churches, and splendid palaces.

The city has a long and illustrious history, dating back to Celtic settlements in the Fourth Century BC. The Romans, Byzantines, Magyars, Habsburgs, and Nazi Germany all ruled over Vienna throughout history.

Some of the city’s most famous landmarks include the Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg Imperial Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Vienna is also home to a wealth of numerous museums, including the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Natural History Museum, and the Albertina Museum.

In addition to its historical significance to global culture and history, Vienna is also a very modern city with a vibrant cultural scene.

There are plenty of places to eat, drink, and party in Vienna. In addition, the city is also known for its high-quality shopping scene making it a great place to spend a day or two.

And if you’re looking for some winter excitement, Vienna is home to some of the best ski resorts in Austria just a short trip from the city, including Schneeberg and Semmering.

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, and indeed the world. If you’re looking for a city break that offers something for everyone, Vienna is a great choice.

See Related: Best Hotels in Vienna, Austria

2. Wachau Valley; home to some of Austria’s finest Red Wines.

The Wachau Valley is a wine-growing region located in the federal state of Lower Austria. The valley frames the Danube, between the towns of Melk and Krems, and is well known for producing some of Austria’s finest red wines.

The landscape is characterized by rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, which produce some of the world’s most sought-after tipples.

Visitors to the Wachau Valley can enjoy a number of activities such as hiking, biking, and of course wine tasting. There are also a number of historical places to visit, including Melk Abbey and Dürnstein Castle.

The region has a Mediterranean climate with warm summers and cold winters. The Wachau Valley is home to a number of different grape varieties, including Grüner Veltliner, Riesling, and Blaufränkisch. 

The soil is thick with limestone, which helps to provide good drainage and enables the grapes to absorb nutrients to grow fat and juicy.

The Wachau Valley has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was one of the first areas in Austria to be cultivated by the Romans. During the Middle Ages, it became home to several monasteries, and agriculture dominated the economy.

The introduction of grapevines transformed the region, with many castles being built to protect and profit from this new booming industry.

The Wachau Valley is now one of Austria’s most popular places to visit, seeing around half a million visitors every year.

3. Belvedere Palace; fit for a Prince

The Belvedere Palace is a Baroque palace located in Vienna, Austria, and is one of the top tourist attractions in Vienna to visit. It was built in 1716 by Prince Eugene of Savoy. The palace has a beautiful garden that is worth visiting.

The Belvedere Palace was originally built in the 18th Century by Prince Eugene of Savoy. The palace was designed in a Baroque style and is one of the top tourist attractions in Vienna. The palace has a beautiful garden that is worth visiting.

It can be reached easily from the historic old town of Vienna by taking the U1 subway line to the stop named “Belvedere”.

This iconic landmark is worth visiting during your stay in Austria’s largest city of Vienna.

4. The Picturesque Alpine Town of Graz.

Graz is a picturesque town located in the foothills of the Alps and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is famous for its preserved medieval architecture, and is also a major cultural center, boasting several museums and theaters.

If you’re looking for a relaxing vacation in a charming historic town, Graz is definitely worth a visit.

There are plenty of things to do in the town. Some of the highlights of things to do in Graz include:

• Visiting the Schloss Eggenberg, a 16th Century palace museum
• Taking a stroll through the old town, which is packed with stunning medieval buildings and alleyways
• Checking out the Graz Art Museum, which has a collection of over 10,000 works of art
• Going for a hike along the cliffside walkways or bike ride in the surrounding hills and mountains

5. The Charming Medieval Town of Salzburg

Salzburg is a charming medieval old town that’s located in the Austrian Alps.

It’s most commonly known as the birthplace of Mozart and it’s one of our favorite places to visit in the world. This beautiful city is home to magnificent Baroque architecture, breathtaking vistas, and a vibrant cultural scene.

Some of the top places to visit in Salzburg include the Hohensalzburg Castle, the Mirabell Gardens, and the Salzburg Cathedral.

Salzburg is a special town because of its history and culture. The architecture here is some of the most beautiful in all of Europe, and the charming cobblestone streets give the town a truly ancient feel.

There’s also a lively cultural scene in Salzburg, with plenty of museums, theaters, and music venues to explore. An important center for education, Salzburg is also home to one of Europe’s oldest universities.

6. Bad Gastein for Hiking and Soaking

Bad Gastein is a popular and picturesque spa town in Austria. The town is located in the Tauer mountains and is known for its fresh mountain air, thermal hot springs, and the roar of the Gasteiner waterfall.

The town’s historic buildings and villas reflect the Belle Epoque style of the city and are considered one of the best spa destinations of all time.

While you’re in Bad Gastein, be sure to soak in the local hot water springs which provide abundant minerals and even radon.

Bad Gastein also has easy access to all outdoor activities such as hiking and biking in summer and skiing in winter.

See Related: Best Spring break Destinations for Families

7. Picture Postcard Perfect Village of Hallstatt

Hallstatt is one of the most charming towns in Europe and an alpine village perched on a picturesque lake beneath snow-capped mountains. It’s one of the prettiest places in Austria and is well worth a visit during your holiday to this lovely country.

The village is actually much older than it appears – people have lived here and made their living from the salt mines that lie below the town since prehistoric times. 

These days, the mines are a major tourist attraction and holders of UNESCO World Heritage status. Visitors can tour them to learn about their fascinating history and stunning underground landscapes.

Hallstatt is truly one of the most beautiful places in Austria – not only does it feature pretty scenery, but also a charming lakeside village, interesting historical sites, and stunningly unique geology.

8. Semmering Railway in Southern Austria

The historic Semmering Railway, built by hand between 1848 and 1854, is one of the greatest feats of civil engineering in Austria.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site still features many original 19th Century locomotives and carriages running the rails to this day, making it a must-see for train lovers.

The line is now used for both freight and passengers, offering visitors a relaxing way to see the beautiful countryside of southern Austria.

As an added bonus, it’s also one of Europe’s most popular mountain railways, and you’ll definitely catch sight of some spectacular views from it.

See Related: Best Vacations for a Group of Friends

9. The Historic Winter Sports City of Innsbruck

Innsbruck is a charming medium-sized city, with a population of around 130,000. It’s located in the heart of Austria, surrounded by the Alps and the River Inn. 

The city center has magnificent architecture, including the Golden Roof – a roofed balcony with golden-colored tiles that was added to the city hall in the 15th Century as a royal viewing box.

Innsbruck has plenty of options for both local and international cuisine, as well as shopping and dining, making it one of the best places to visit in Austria by far.

The Nordkette mountain range is a popular tourist destination in Austria. It’s located just outside the city of Innsbruck and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The Nordkette range is home to a number of famous, world-class ski resorts, which draw thousands of tourists during the winter months offering the fresh pure mountain air. In summer, visitors can enjoy hiking and biking in the surrounding countryside.

Whatever time of year you visit, Innsbruck is sure to charm you with its picturesque scenery and friendly atmosphere.

See Related: Salzburg vs Innsbruck: What is Better to Visit?

10. Get Lost in Gesäuse National Park

The Gesäuse National Park is a stunning natural area located in Austria. The park is home to wild rivers, looming mountain rock faces, and dense forests. It is a great place for excursions and is a favorite for rafter connoisseurs and trekkers.

The Hocktor mountain is the highest and most visited mountain in the park. Photographers and travelers will enjoy a trip to Austria – if they can get to a higher point. The views from the top are simply breathtaking.

There are plenty of great places to stay near the Gesäuse National Park:

• Hotel Tauernhof – This hotel is located in the heart of the Gesäuse National Park and is surrounded by stunning nature. It offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, pool, and restaurant.
• Gasthof Jagdhof – This guesthouse is located close to the park and offers a variety of rooms, including family-friendly options. It also has a restaurant on site.
• Panorama Alm – This alpine hut is located close to the park and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It has a limited number of rooms, so be sure to book early.
• Pension Linde – This guesthouse is located in the town of Admont and offers a variety of rooms, including family-friendly options. It also has a restaurant on site.
• Ferienhaus Kölbl – This house is located close to the park and offers a variety of rooms, including family-friendly options. It also has a kitchenette and gardens.

11. Bask in the Beauty of Krimml Waterfalls

The Krimml Waterfalls are a series of waterfalls located in the Hohe Tauern National Park in Austria. At a whopping total of 380 meters in height, they are some of the tallest waterfalls in Europe. The falls stretch over 4 kilometers and can be seen from different observation points along the trail.

The Krimml Waterfalls are a popular tourist attraction and provide visitors with a beautiful and peaceful setting in which to enjoy nature.

To get to the Krimml Waterfalls in Austria, visitors can take a train from Innsbruck to Zell am See and then transfer to the train to Krimml. The trip takes about 2.5 hours.

12. Visit the scenic mountain range of Grossglockner

The Grossglockner is Austria’s tallest mountain and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. If you’re looking for a beautiful and scenic place to visit in Austria, the Grossglockner is definitely worth a trip.

It’s part of a 36-mile-long mountain range, which is a stunning sight to behold, with snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear lakes.

If you’re looking for a scenic drive, the Grossglockner Hochalpenstraße is a great option. This winding road offers stunning views of the mountains and the valley below. Make sure to stop at one of the many overlooks for some amazing photos.

There are plenty of things to do at the Grossglockner. If you’re a nature lover, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to explore.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, you can go skiing or snowboarding. Or, if you’re just looking for some relaxation time, you can take a walk around one of the beautiful lakes.

For the road trip of a lifetime, there are literally no places that beat Austria’s Grossglockner High Alpine Road. Rent one of your favorite cars and cruise around these heavenly ribbons of road.

13. Explore the Historic Town of Klagenfurt and the Carinthia Region

The Carinthia region is located in the western part of Austria on the shores of Lake Wörthersee. It is home to beautiful lakes, mountain ranges, and medieval towns.

The Carinthia region is a great place for hikers and bikers alike, as there are many scenic trails in the area. In winter, the region turns into a popular ski resort.

Klagenfurt is a historic town located on the shores of Lake Wörthersee. It’s home to a number of interesting museums and historical landmarks.

The Lindwurm Palace and the Klagenfurt Cathedral are two must-see places. The town also has a lively nightlife, with plenty of bars and restaurants to choose from.

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Klagenfurt, there are plenty of options to choose from. The Lindwurm Palace, the Klagenfurt Cathedral, and the Hotel Schlosshof are all popular choices.

The Lindwurm Palace is a beautiful historic palace that’s been converted into a hotel.

The Klagenfurt Cathedral is a beautiful Gothic cathedral that’s worth a visit. And the Hotel Schlosshof is a nice hotel located in the center of town.

14. Saalbach-Hinterglemm; home to Alpine resorts and a great place to stay in Austria

Saalbach-Hinterglemm is a beautiful resort town located in a district in Zell am See, Austria. The town is known for its ski slopes and mountain biking trails and is a great place to stay for those looking to explore the outdoors.

The town itself is oriented towards tourism, but this does not diminish its importance as a nature destination. Visitors can enjoy incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from anywhere in the town.

The best places to stay in Saalbach-Hinterglemm are those that offer the most convenience and comfort for visitors. Some of the best hotels in the town include the following:

• Hotel Saalbacher Hof – This hotel is located right in the heart of the town and is perfect for those looking for a central location. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a spa, pool, and restaurant.
• Mountain Chalet Hochalm – This chalet is located in the mountains overlooking Saalbach-Hinterglemm and is perfect for those who want to get away from it all. The chalet offers amazing views of the town and surrounding countryside and is ideal for those who want to enjoy nature at its best.
• Hotel Schloss Prielau – This historic hotel is located in the heart of the Saalbach-Hinterglemm valley and is perfect for those who want a taste of luxury. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a spa and pool, as well as fine dining options.

There are also a number of other great places to stay in Saalbach-Hinterglemm, including bed and breakfasts, apartments, and hostels.

15. The dreamy Gosaukamm mountain range in Salzkammergut

The Salzkammergut is a popular tourist destination on Austria’s eastern border. The region is home to stunning landscapes, medieval towns, and terrific ski resorts.

Gosaukamm is the namesake mountain of the breathtaking Gosaukamm range in the Austrian Alps. At 2,995 meters (9,823 ft), it is the highest peak in the range.

The mountain is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and skiers. The summit can be reached by a number of routes, including an easy if lengthy hike from the village of Gosau. The mountain is also home to a number of Alpine huts and cabins, which offer accommodation to anyone tackling the slopes.

The region is home to stunning lakes, such as the Traunsee, Grundlsee, and Wolfgangsee. And it’s a great winter sports destination, with places like Bad Aussee and Zwettl offering world-class skiing resorts.

16. The looming Vorarlberg Mountains

The Vorarlberg Mountains offer an incredible view for any hiker.

The region between Lake Constance and the mountains is ideal for long hikes, particularly in a zone of mountains that reach more than 2000 meters in height. Värlberg has several natural beauty places. Montafon’s Verwall is one of our favorites.

Verwall is a mountain range in the Central Eastern Alps. It is located in the Bundesland of Vorarlberg in Austria. The mountain range has an area of about 190 km2 and reaches a height of 2,865 meters at the summit of Piz Buin.

The Silvretta Group, which is also in Vorarlberg, offers an equally stunning landscape and is a popular destination for hikers, climbers, and skiers. The highest peak in the Silvretta Group is Piz Buin at 3,312 meters.

17. Krems – one of the oldest and most beautiful towns in Austria

The main reason visitors come to Krems and the Danube is for its postcard-friendly setting along the River Wachau. Among its renowned wines are well-known, and the UN has recognized it as an international heritage site.

The Wachau is a World Heritage cultural landscape in Austria that contains some of Europe’s most stunning river valleys.

There are many hiking trails and bike paths that wind through the vineyards, forests, and meadows. The region is popular for skiing, swimming, fishing, and kayaking.

There are many places to stay in Krems Austria, but one of the most popular is the Schlosshotel Seewirt. It is located in the heart of the city and overlooks the river.

The hotel has a long history dating back to the 16th Century. It has been renovated and updated over the years, but it still retains its historic charm and elegance.

The Schlosshotel features a pool, a wellness spa, a fitness center, a restaurant, and a bar.

Another popular place to stay in Krems is the Gasthaus Zur Schonen Aussicht. It is a small, family-owned hotel that features traditional Austrian cuisine and stunning views of the river and the surrounding hills.

The hotel has just six guest rooms, so it is ideal for those who want a more intimate and personal experience.

18. Admire the heavenly Hohe Tauern National Park

The Hohe Tauern National Park is one of the most beautiful and diverse parks in Austria. The park is home to a number of different animal and plant species, including the golden eagle and the chamois.

The park offers a range of spectacular landscapes, including the Krimml Falls and Pasterze glacier.

This iconic Austrian National Park park is a great place for hikers and nature lovers to explore and enjoy the beauty of the Austrian Alps.

There are a number of great places to stay near the Hohe Tauern National Park. One of the most popular is the Hotel Schloss Mittersil. This pet-friendly hotel features free parking, a wellness spa, a pool, and a bar.

19. Swim Lake Constance

The Bodensee, also known as Lake Constance, is a large lake in Central Europe that borders Switzerland, Austria, and Germany.

The lake is about 73 kilometers long and up to 17 kilometers wide. It has a total surface area of 539 square kilometers and a maximum depth of 253 meters.

The Bodensee is a popular destination for boating, swimming, windsurfing, and fishing. There are also a number of beautiful lakeside towns and villages that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular towns on the lake are Konstanz, Lindau, and Friedrichshafen.

There are a number of great places to stay near the Bodensee. One of the most popular is the Schlosshotel, which is located in the heart of the city and overlooks the river.

20. Kick back at Bad Ischl

Bad Ischl is located in the Upper Austria region and is a town that is known for its spas. The town has many beautiful lakes that are located nearby, and it is also the gateway to the Hallstatt and Wolfgangsee areas. Emperor Franz Joseph once made Bad Ischl his home, and the town grew even bigger after he made this decision.

There are a number of places to stay in Bad Ischl, and many of them offer some great views of the surrounding area. Here are some of the best places to stay in Bad Ischl:

• Hotel Andreas Hofer: This hotel is located right in the heart of Bad Ischl and offers some great views of the town and the surrounding lakes.
• Gasthof Zur Post: This hotel is located in a beautiful setting near the edge of a lake, and it offers spacious rooms and a great breakfast buffet.
• Hotel Schloss Thannegg: This hotel is located in a picturesque castle setting, and it offers luxurious accommodations and amenities.

Final Thoughts

Austria has a lot of beautiful spots and activities, which is one of the reasons why it is so popular with tourists.

Whether you’re interested in the excellent winter sports facilities or simply want to get out and explore the magnificent countryside on foot, there are plenty of places that will meet your demands (with some breathtaking scenery of course).

Seriously, you need to check out Austria. This European country is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.

Please feel free to subscribe to our travel newsletter or our YouTube channel and join us on our journey around the world.

Auf Wiedersehen!

FAQ

Related Resources