Austria lies firmly within Central Europe and delights the visitors by its mountainous landscapes and imperial history. Although it is quite a small nation, it is filled with many attractions that can be explored.
Alternatively, you can explore stunning places rich in cultural history, swim in clear waters, or ski on imposing mountain slopes. It is hard for people to narrow their travel plans to a particular area, and this is where we decided to list all your favourite Austrian destinations.
01. Hochosterwitz Castle
For those who like medieval building, Hochosterwitz Castle should be seen. The landmark is located in the hills of the Dolomite Mountains near the town of Sankt Georgen at Längsee Carinthia.
The view is impressive and it can be seen 30 kilometers from it when it is clear. Although privately owned, visitors can visit some areas of the castle from Easter to October. Its 620 meters wide walkthrough includes 14 gates.
When you arrive there are several art shows, weapons and exhibitions. It features eight ft of armor worn by Burghauptmann Schenk.
02. St. Wolfgang
The St Wolfgang Market is located in Salzkammergut Austrias famed lakes district. Nestled at Wolfgangsee Lake, the village offers a number of colourful homes along its beautiful shoreline and the 1783 meter-high Mount Schafberg which stands imperiously over the shoreline.
You can climb this mountain using the Schafburg Railway. This should be a first thing that you do before you come to Saint Wolfgang. You will enjoy spectacular views across seven distinct lakes. This town is a few kilometers north of Salzburg and also contains the beautiful Mirabell Palace. The Palace is located at a wonderful place to walk.
| Read: | 30 Most Colorful Places on Earth - Colorful Beach Houses |  |
03. Salzburg – A Date With Mozart
One of Austria's most visited destinations is Salzburg, which reminds me of a quaint city with rolling green fields, majestic historic buildings and Mozart. Salzburg is the home of genius musicians and is the location in which the legendary film Sound of Music is shot.
Aldsten is an impressive Baroque village that has a history of world heritage, Hohensalzburg fortress boasts that it was Europe's last preserved castle. The Salzburg Festspiele in Summer is an exciting cultural event that you should never forget.
04. Innsbruck – The Picture-Postcard Town
An idyllic mountain village with sweeping views offers many choices to keep you happy. Enjoy your leisure stroll through the historic city and admire the glittering Goldene Dachl adorned with more than 2500 sparkling tiles.
A destination to visit all seasons and amongst Austria's best destinations during the winter Innsbruck is famous for its many famous ski resorts.
05. Hallstatt and the Dachstein Salzkammergut
Hallstatt has a reputation for being the best small town in Austria or at some point in Europe. It is a great location for exploring the Dachstein Salzkammergut, UNESCO world heritage site. The beautiful Baroque building confirms Hallstatt's richness and has its long heritage in the salt making of prehistory.
You can also visit the underground salt lake at a cavern nearby Hörnerwerk or discover the Dachstein Caves, the most beautiful cave network in Europe. The cavern reaches 1,174 m deep.
06. The Vienna Hofburg: Austria's Imperial Palace
Historically, the Vienna Palace Hofburg had been the seat of Austrian kings and the power of the strong Habsburgs during the centuries. Visits here are an important thing in Austria.
The President also operates government affairs in a space that once occupied the residence of Emperor Joseph II.
Since 1275, most Aristocratic rulers ordered changes to their homes, which resulted in many architectural influences. The Hofburg estate comprises 57 acres, including 19 courtyards and 2600 rooms.
07. Melk Abbey
Melk Abbey lies within lower Austria and is an important cultural attraction. Benedictines monastery dating from 1150.
The building stands in a rocky outcrop overlooking the river. The monastery is famous because it houses the last resting place for Saint Coloman of Stockerau as well as a variety of members who are affiliated with House Babenberg.
From the 1170's to 1390's abbeys also ran a well reputed school. Alumnae include artists and writers Gregor Werner and Carl Zeller, artists Alfred & Leopold Blauerensteiner and poet Friedrich Halm.
08. Bad Gastein – A Refreshing Treat For Body And Soul
Go to Bad Gastein's spa town to soak into the soothing waters of hot springs while enjoying mountain air. Atop the High Tauern Mountain the picturesque village also attracts winter ski lovers making this a very nice place in Austria.
Bad Gastein has some exciting hiking trails around and plenty of outdoor experiences like biking and walking. This impressive waterfall at Gastein in central city is a beautiful place. Opening studios, creative workshops, musical performances, culinary delights and an exciting night scene are other reasons to book now!
09. Krimml Waterfalls – Austria's Famous Paradise
Known as a high-speed waterfall, Austrians. It’s a beautiful place to capture your memories with a loved one. That isn't everything. To reach these falls you will need to hike a 4km path that will take you through numerous observation platforms.
There are many Austrian tourist destinations in this place. The perfect places to stay: Nature / Adventure: Krimml waterfall waterworld museum.
10. Schonbrunn Palace – Heritage Of Austria
How do we travel the Austrian mountains? If you love a palace, it may be right for you. The place has been regarded as being a most royal spot in Vienna. This palace is part of UNESCO heritage and should also be on your bucketlist.
The palace is filled with royal vibes. The palace offers many heartwarming attractions including Privilege Gardens filled with lush green. Best time for sightseeing: April to May; September to October.
Tram and bus service takes the visitor to the Schonbrun Palace. Read: Austrians in September: Enjoy beautiful scenery on a sunny day!
11. Zell Am See – Pristine Alpine Wonders
Ski slopes, international levels of skiing, the clear blue water from Zell Am See Lake and the picturesque Salzburg mountains are all part of a unique combination that makes Zell Am View the best location for relaxing in a peaceful setting.
This is the location that you should take into account if visiting Austria in March. Cycling along the dreamy waters of the lake is one of the most inspiring adventures to experience in this picturesque town. Take in the beautiful scenery while sipping coffee in a city center café or walk up to St. Hippolytes Church and take the best view. Is it the perfect place? Nature.
12. Hohensalzburg Castle
Hohensalzburg Fortress is a very important medieval fortress in Europe. Hohenstal Schloss is an amazing piece of medieval architecture and it is a must-see activity in Austria. Perchanced at a height of 550 meters above Festungberg, these medieval castles sit in the heart of Salzburg.
It covers a height of 250m x 150m and is one of the largest surviving structures in its category. In World War I, the castle was incarcerated by Italians. The house had Nazi activities before German occupation of Austria and the Allied forces occupied the country. It's possible for you to get into the castle using a funicular running for 10 min.
13. Hoher Dachstein – The Three-State Mountain
Located at the border between Obersterreich - Styria - Salzburg. Hoher Dachstein is the 2nd highest peaks within the North Alpine region. The highest peaks provide stunning views that should be seen.
There are several sights to visit in Austria. Ideal for: Nature - adventure - places: Dachstein Hängebrücke Alpine Club Austria - Places to Stay: Falkensteiner hotel Schladmer. Restaurant Bergstation.
14. Salzburg Altstadt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
As home to a prince-archbishop, Salzburg has been a spiritual centre since early Christian times in Europe. The Benedictine Abbey of St Peter situated at Altstadt (Old City) has been founded by St Rupert since 610 and served as an Archbishop's residence since the early 1100s.
The Prince Archbishops employed many of the best artists and architects in their day to construct and embellish their Church residences and monastery Although these have been modified to reflect the tastes of successive centuries, medieval and baroque buildings combine to form a harmonious structure.
15. Eisenstadt – Postcard Perfect Sceneries
Burgenstadt is the capital and a great attraction to visit Austria because the region is famous for its rich cultural history. The town once held the famous 18th-century songwriter Joseph Haydn. Its castles, landscaped gardens, and historic museums make it one of the top tourist destinations in Austria.
The cobbled streets, charming cafes and the downtown will be an enjoyable feed for Instagram. Ideal For History Quaint cafe. Location: Estherhazy Castle Bergkirche Schlosspark Eisenstadt Franziskaner Kirchen.
16. St. Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna
The Gothic-imposing St. Stephans'Castle (Stephan'sdom) has become one of Vienna’s landmarks in the historical center. In the 13th century the original Romanesque church was replaced by late Romanesque churches of the 12th century.
A later Gothic reconstruction of the 13th century included the choir and chapel of Saint Eligiu. In the subsequent century the famous 134 meters high South Tower was constructed (Steffl). After the devastating war, churches and structures were re-opened.
17. Klosterneuburg Abbey and the Verdun Altar
A series of steps lead down to the beautiful Klosterneuburg Abbey which houses Leopold III's tomb from the 12th century. There's even a Verdun altar nearby. The best-known examples of medieval enamelwork the altar comprises of 51 pieces with champleve paintings on gilded copper depicting the biblical scenes of Nicholas of Verdun from about 1181.
Originally installed in the reading chamber in the former Romanesque church, the panels became the present winged altar in the aftermath of a fire in 1329. 4 painted panels were placed in the altar in 1331 and the most prestigious in Austria. They were painted in Vienna in 1329 and now sit in the abbey museum.
18. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – Best Road Trip Ever
Those who love driving can make Grossglockner High alpine road their bucket list. It's a must-see place in Austria for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. A ridgeline path runs across a vast mountain range, snow fields and terrifying cliffs. The road will allow you to escape into the natural world.
You will discover various viewpoints along your journey and admire Austria's stunning natural surroundings. Ideal for: Road trips Nature lover. Visiting places: Grossglockner National Parks. Visiting places: Hotel kassivilla, Berghotel Hois, Hotel Romerhof.
19. Tyrol – Heaven In The Alps
Tyrrol is a magnificent country centered on west Austria. The resort rests in the mountains and is a famous resort. In addition, there are several sites of historical importance such as Ambras Castle, Ehrenburg Castle or Kufstein Fortress. There is also one of Tyrols most interesting museums.
Tyrol is the centre of many popular European Winter Festivals you can enjoy. Check it out for your Austria trip itinerary! Innsbruck is known as Tyrol's capital. It includes medieval churches, medieval baroque architecture as well as traditional houses and palaces.
20. Wachau – Best Wines And A Dose Of History
Flanking the beautiful river Donau the rich valley is an excellent South Austria attraction - a must-see. Wachau Valley has become UNESCO World Heritage for it’s unique cultural and natural beauty.
Studded with magnificent monastery sites (including Melk's Baroque Monastery), castles and fortifications, Wachau valley is filled with historical attractions and architecture. Ideal for: Wines, Architecture and Historical Site Visits: Aggstein Castle.
21. Skiing at Kitzbühel and Kitzbüheler Horn
Kitzbüheler, a ski resort in a popular Austrian region, spoils snow lovers with 1,700 kilometers of slick and slope-dotted pistes. Although it is the home of yearly Hahnekamm, the toughest of all slope racing competition, Kitzbühel offers plenty of terrain for all skill levels in its three ski areas and a smallest of them, Bichlalm, dedicated to free skiing.
Kitzbühel doesn t only belong to skiing. The city's walls are decorated with frescoes and its walls feature snow-covered alpine mountains.
22. Innsbruck Altstadt
Innsbrucker mountains surround you with snow covered mountains that give you an enviable feeling within a stunning Alpine landscape. The area has been described as having a duel character with an unspoiled environment and a sophisticated center of town. Altstadt is the historic city of Innsbruck that draws you by its architectural and shops.
In your stroll through Altstadt streets there is a famous landmark the Golden Roof. These buildings were built in the honour of a Roman emperor, the emperor Maximillian I. They have thousands of painted copper tiles with the appearance of pure gold.
23. Lake Constance – Third Largest Lake In Europe
An incredible sight at Lake Constance that will captivate your mind and make you forget everything. Lakes are spread around the continent and the borders are Austria, Germany, and Switzerland.
The lake is the fourth biggest in the world. One can picnic and soak up the beautiful views. During winter, this area is known for thermal baths. You may even take an adventure boat on this lake. Hence, it is definitely worth a visit to Austria. Ideal for: Picnic boat trips to: Mainau, Konstanz Minster, Lindau.
24. Eisriesenwelt: The World of the Ice Giants
Located at western end of the Tennengebirge, the magnificent World of Ice Giants is the largest ice cave system in the entire world. In tiary times these caves were formed on a deep river and covered about 330,000 square meters. The network was founded in 1879 and opened to the public in 1912.
Approximately 145 kilometers of it are being explored. After winding through the Great Ice Wall you'll face a huge Hall called the Hymer Hall which has impressive Ice Formations. Stone steps lead to Eistor Ice Gate or the ice gates that is 1,775 meters high.
25. Graz – Immerse In History, Culture, And Food
Austria's second largest city with 6 universities and an excellent historical centre of Europe, Graz is full of interesting things to entertain the travel lover soul. Add the countless museum sites, impressive baroque buildings and unique forested hills in the center of the city providing panoramic views to create the perfect holiday. Literally.
Graz will attract you with a wide variety of delicious cuisines. Food enthusiasts may have a little pumpkin oil in hand when cooking in the kitchen. Graz was ranked among most bizarre and unusual locations in Austria. I'd be happy to give a presentation on: History, cooking.
26. Vienna State Opera – Rendezvous With The Culture
Austria State Opera is an Austrian attraction for cultural vultures. It is surely fascinating to anyone who wants to experience art. It is important to first see how well it is built in its surroundings. You can go to museums to explore the culture. I'd recommend visiting Austria on 11 November 13:00 - 5:00 : 00.
27. St Anton am Arlberg – Best Ski Village
If you want to see the sights in Austria you should consider St Anton am Arlberg as an important place. The Austrian town has one of the best ski resorts in Austria. There are more than 200 chairlifting machines in this complex and there are also luxury spas, indoor rock climbing centers, and several restaurants. The area offers great nightlife. The best ski-snow-no-fly places to visit are Valluga Galzig Sonnenkopf.
28. National Park Hohe Tauern – The Land Of Austria's Superlatives
National Park Hohe Tauren has become one of the Austrian tourism attractions because it's the oldest and most important park in Austria. In the land of Australia's superlatives you can find the nation's biggest mountains glaciers and forests at this Nationalpark. See amazing animals in the wild.
You can explore the park independently, or join an independent park tour with the park ranger. The perfect location to go hiking & mountaineering. Heimat Natur Resort Gradonna Mountains Resort Chalet & hotel, nature and hikinghotel Outside. Top restaurants: Glocknerhaus Edelweiss Hutte, Restaurant Kirchenwirt.
29. Vienna Woods – UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
What makes Vienna Forest - Austria a good destination is the abundance of fauna and the proximity to the town. The drive to Vienna Woods can be the best way for locals to escape everything and enjoy an enjoyable nature break.
Its protected Biosphere Reserve is a national UNESCO World Heritage site with over 200 birds and animals. It's probably accessible by public transportation from Vienna. Ideal for: nature getaway. Places To Visit: Ferienwohnung Vonwald, Hotel Ekazent Schönbrunn Eventhotel Pyramide.
30. Hohe Tauern National Park
Hohe Tauern National Park in an elegant and irresistible medley of Belle Époque and Art Deco. In the middle of the town, the gushing cataracts of the Gastein Waterfall crash around the pretty facades of 19th-century hotels and restaurants, while fir forests rise on all sides and enfold the whole centre in a symphony.
golden roof; schönbrunn palace; golden roof; schönbrunn palace; golden roof; schönbrunn palace; city center; upper austria; historic sites; central europe; places to visit; places to visit; places to visit; places to visit; places to visit; places to visit; places to visit; art museum; summer residence; stephen's cathedral; emperor franz joseph;
Northern limestone alps; hohe tauern national park; spectacular hofburg palace; capital city; vienna state opera; vienna state opera; vienna state opera; austrian alps; austrian alps; spa town; grossglockner high alpine road; vienna schönbrunn palace; eastern alps; old town; old town; old town; old town; old town; charming city; city centre; world war ii; cable car; cable car; marble hall;
