Austria is an incredible destination for travelers, full of breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and charming towns. With so many amazing places to explore, it can be hard to decide which ones to visit. To help you plan your perfect trip, we’ve put together a list of the top places to visit in Austria.
From the bustling city of Vienna to the majestic mountains of the Tyrol, these destinations are sure to make your Austrian adventure unforgettable. Read on to discover the top attractions and activities to explore while you’re there.
1 Vienna
The capital of Austria, Vienna is a stunning city with an abundance of culture, history, and natural beauty. There are many activities to enjoy here, such as the grandiose Vienna State Opera House, the Imperial Palace, Belvedere Palace, and the Schönbrunn Palace.
Vienna is also home to some of the world’s most important museums and galleries, including the Albertina Museum and the Natural History Museum. In addition, a visit to Vienna wouldn’t be complete without a trip to St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic cathedral located in the heart of the city. With its picturesque parks, vibrant nightlife, and an array of excellent restaurants, Vienna is a must-visit destination for all travelers to Austria.
Austria offers a multitude of activities for visitors, from the majestic views of the Alps to the quaint charm of small towns and villages. Tourists can explore the unique architecture of Vienna, take a boat ride along the Danube River, or shop in one of the many world-renowned markets
2 Salzburg
Salzburg, the “City of Music”, is one of the top places to visit in Austria and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Situated in a picturesque mountain setting, Salzburg offers breathtaking views, culture, and history.
Visitors can explore the city’s many architectural attractions, including the baroque palaces and abbeys, or go skiing in one of the nearby ski resorts. A popular activity is to take a boat ride on the Salzach River and admire the beautiful architecture along the way. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the old town to see the sights.
Salzburg is also home to many famous festivals, such as the Salzburg Festival and Mozartwoche, both of which attract thousands of people every year. So if you’re looking for culture, music, and history, Salzburg is a great place to visit!
3 Innsbruck
Nestled in the heart of the Austrian Alps, Innsbruck is one of Austria’s most picturesque cities. With its breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, the city offers a unique blend of modern and traditional influences.
Visitors can explore its many historical sites and monuments, indulge in delicious regional cuisine or enjoy outdoor activities such as skiing and mountain biking. Shopping and nightlife are plentiful, and the city also serves as a great base for day trips to nearby villages and nature reserves. With its vibrant culture and stunning mountain scenery, Innsbruck is a must-see destination in Austria.
4 Graz
Graz is a stunning city in Austria, filled with natural beauty and culture. It is known for its vibrant art scene and the many cafes, restaurants, galleries, and music venues it has to offer. The city is also home to some of the best historical sites in Austria, including Schlossberg Castle, the Old Town, and the Grazer Dom.
A great way to explore all these attractions is by taking a walking tour around the city and taking in all the unique sights. The best time to visit Graz is during the summer months, when the days are sunny and warm. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover or just looking for a relaxing holiday, Graz is the perfect place to explore!
5 Klagenfurt
Klagenfurt, located in Austria’s southern region of Carinthia, is a must-see destination for visitors to the country. From its vibrant city center to its picturesque lakeside setting, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in this charming city. Head to Maria-Theresien-Straße for a selection of bars, restaurants, and shops, and be sure to take a stroll along the waterfront for stunning views of Lake Wolfgang .
The city is also home to some of the oldest buildings in Austria, including a medieval castle and the Gothic Old Town Hall. Nature lovers should make time to explore Minimundus, an outdoor museum featuring detailed scale models of some of the world’s most famous buildings and monuments. Whether you’re looking for culture or recreation, Klagenfurt is an ideal destination.
6 Linz
Linz is the capital of Upper Austria and a vibrant city with plenty to see and do. This old city on the Danube River dates back to Roman times, and it’s a great place to explore its history and culture. You can visit several churches, including the Gothic-style Old Cathedral, as well as take in the view from the observation tower of the New Cathedral. Linz also has many museums and galleries for art lovers, such as the Ars Electronica Center.
You can also explore the nature of the surrounding area by going for hikes and taking boat trips along the Danube. Shopping in Linz is also great, with its vibrant marketplaces, boutiques, and shopping malls. There are plenty of delicious restaurants, bars, and cafes in this city, so you won’t have any trouble finding something to suit your taste. Austria is a great year-round destination, with something to offer every season.
summer months (June to August) are the most popular times to visit and offer mild temperatures with plenty of sunshine.
7 Bregenz
Bregenz, the largest city on the Austrian shore of Lake Constance, is the capital of Vorarlberg province. This beautiful and tranquil city is known for its beautiful lake views, medieval old town, and stunning architecture. Popular activities include strolling along the lake promenade, browsing the quaint shops and cafes, visiting the Bregenz Festival, and taking in a show at the Vienna State Opera House. An evening stroll along the beach or lakeside walk is a great way to experience the breathtaking beauty of Bregenz.
Many nearby hiking trails offer spectacular panoramas of the area. Visitors can also explore the city’s rich cultural heritage with several museums, galleries, and monuments dedicated to local history. With its breathtaking scenery, lively culture, and charming atmosphere, Bregenz is an unforgettable holiday destination.
8 Eisenstadt
Eisenstadt is an Austrian city located in the east of the country, close to Vienna and Hungary. It is best known for its impressive architecture, which includes the Esterhazy Palace, the monuments of St. Stephens Cathedral and the Old City Hall.
Eisenstadt has a long history, beginning as a Celtic settlement before it was eventually absorbed into the Roman Empire. Today, it is a vibrant tourist destination, offering visitors plenty of sights and activities to explore. Popular attractions include the Haydn Museum, where visitors can learn about the famous composer, and the Butterfly Garden, home to a wide variety of butterfly species. With its quaint old town, numerous parks, and beautiful surroundings, Eisenstadt is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
9 Mariazell
Located in Styria, Austria, Mariazell is a popular pilgrimage destination due to its beautiful basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The town is surrounded by lush meadows, forests, and mountains, and visitors can explore its quaint streets lined with historical buildings and traditional shops.
Popular activities include hiking and skiing in the area, as well as exploring the nearby Bründlkogel Mountain and visiting the breathtaking Mariazellerbahn railway line. There are plenty of restaurants serving hearty local cuisine, while nature lovers will appreciate the nearby National Park Neusiedler See-Seewinkel. Don’t miss out on a visit to the museum dedicated to local customs and legends or a stroll through the picturesque park!
10 St. Anton
St. Anton is a picturesque mountain village located in the Tyrol region of Austria, popular for its ski slopes and stunning views of the surrounding Alps. It’s a great destination for those seeking to explore nature in an idyllic setting and is a fantastic holiday destination year-round.
During winter, St. Anton is a hub of activity with plenty of winter sports, including skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing. In summer, visitors can take advantage of the hiking trails and beautiful mountain scenery.
There are several quaint cafes and restaurants in the area offering traditional Austrian fare as well as a wide range of international dishes. With plenty of accommodation options ranging from luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses, St. Anton is the perfect place to escape for an unforgettable experience in Austria.
11 Zell am See
One of the top places to visit in Austria is Zell am See, a charming town with plenty of activities to keep you entertained. This picturesque lakeside town is surrounded by majestic mountains and provides plenty of opportunities for hiking, skiing, and other outdoor activities.
You can also take a boat ride on the lake or enjoy local cuisine in one of the many restaurants. Other attractions in Zell am See include a cable car ride up Schmittenhohe mountain, a ski resort, and an old town center with cobbled streets and traditional buildings. With its stunning scenery and wealth of activities, Zell am See is an ideal place for a memorable vacation.
12 Kitzbühel
Nestled among the Tyrolean Alps, Kitzbuhel is a picturesque ski resort town that’s perfect for outdoor adventurers. During winter, you can take advantage of some of the best skiing in Austria and enjoy its stunning scenery. During summer, Kitzbuhel provides many activities, such as biking and hiking through the majestic landscape.
The town itself offers plenty to do with its cobbled streets and rustic buildings. Stroll through the market or explore the ancient castle ruins, and then try some of the local cuisines. With its spectacular setting and unique attractions, Kitzbuhel is one of Austria’s must-see destinations.Austria is a great year-round destination, with something to offer in every season.
summer months (June to August) are the most popular times to visit and offer mild temperatures with plenty of sunshine.
13 Saalbach
Saalbach is a village in Austria, located in the state of Salzburg. This beautiful alpine village is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience. With its picturesque mountains, quaint cobblestone streets, and traditional wooden buildings, it’s no wonder that Saalbach has become a popular tourist destination.
The village is also home to some of Austria’s most famous ski slopes, making it the perfect spot for winter sports enthusiasts. There are many opportunities for exploring the surrounding countryside, from hiking trails to mountain biking routes.
If you’re looking for a bit of relaxation, you can take in the breathtaking views at one of the many spa resorts nearby. Whether you’re here for the scenery or the activities, Saalbach will provide a memorable experience for everyone.
14 Ischgl
Ischgl is an Austrian ski resort town in the Tyrol region, renowned for its lively nightlife, stunning mountain views, and fantastic ski slopes. In the winter months, Ischgl is known for hosting major music festivals and numerous cultural events, such as the Ischgl Iron Bike Race, the world’s toughest bike race.
The slopes at Ischgl offer some of the best skiing in Austria and there are plenty of opportunities for snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and sledding. If you’re looking for a more relaxed break, you can take a stroll around the many quaint villages or spend time exploring the local museums and galleries. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, Ischgl offers something for everyone.
15 Sankt Wolfgang im Salzkammergut
This beautiful Austrian village is situated in the heart of the Salzkammergut region and is an ideal destination for those looking for a peaceful and picturesque retreat. Boasting stunning views of the nearby Lake Wolfgang and surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, Sankt Wolfgang im Salzkammergut is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature.
This idyllic village offers plenty to do, including visiting nearby monasteries, exploring the historic ruins of Durnstein Castle, or taking a boat trip on the lake. With its quaint cobblestone streets and pastel-colored buildings, this stunning village provides a charming atmosphere for visitors to explore and relax in.
16 Hallstatt
Located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, Hallstatt is a village known for its incredible beauty. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s easy to see why Hallstatt has been named one of the best places to visit in Austria. The village is located on the edge of Lake Hallstatt and is surrounded by picturesque mountains. Take a boat tour on the lake or explore the quaint streets with their colorful buildings and traditional restaurants.
Be sure to visit the oldest salt mine in the world, Salzwelten, and admire the archaeological excavations at the Hallstatt Museum. There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, too, such as hiking, biking, and skiing in the nearby mountains. With its stunning scenery, friendly locals, and historical sites, Hallstatt is the perfect destination for a memorable Austrian getaway.
conclusion
In conclusion, Austria offers a plethora of breathtaking destinations for travelers seeking culture, beauty, and adventure. From the imperial city of Vienna to the majestic Alps and charming lakeside villages such as Hallstatt and Zell Am See, the country boasts a rich tapestry of history and natural wonders.
Visitors can indulge in world-class skiing on snow-covered slopes, explore centuries-old castles and palaces, or immerse themselves in Austria’s vibrant music traditions. The list of 16 top places to visit in Austria includes some of the country’s most coveted destinations while highlighting lesser-known hidden gems that offer an unforgettable experience. So whether you are looking for outdoor adventures or cultural enlightenment, Austria is a must-visit destination filled with endless opportunities for discovery and enjoyment.
