Austria's Top 15 Best Places to Visit | Austria Travel Guide

AUSTRIA

Austria is a landlocked country with a wealth of stunning landscapes, beautiful architecture, and a rich musical heritage. Bordered by the Czech Republic to the north, Germany to the northwest, Slovakia to the northeast, Hungary to the east, and Liechtenstein and Switzerland to the west, Austria offers a unique blend of past glories and natural beauty. If you're planning a visit, here are the 15 best places to explore in Austria:

Number 15 - Achensee

Achensee, also known as the Tyrolean Sea, is Austria's largest lake nestled in Tyrol. Surrounded by the Karwendel mountain range to the west and the Brandenberg Alps to the east, Achensee offers stunning Alpine pastures and breathtaking viewpoints, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• Austria's largest lake, nestled in Tyrol.
• Surrounded by the Karwendel mountain range and Brandenberg Alps.
• Offers stunning Alpine pastures and viewpoints.

Tips:

• Take a boat cruise on the lake for panoramic views.
• Explore the surrounding hiking trails for breathtaking vistas.
• Visit in summer for outdoor activities and in winter for snow sports.

Number 14 - Bad Gastein

Located in the heart of the High Tauern Mountains in the Gastein Valley, Bad Gastein is renowned for its Belle Epoque architecture and picturesque landscapes. The town is famous for its thermal spring waters, making it a popular spa and wellness destination.

Highlights:

• Located in the High Tauern Mountains, Gastein Valley.
• Known for Belle Epoque architecture and thermal springs.
• Popular spa and wellness destination.

Tips:

• Enjoy a relaxing spa day at one of the thermal baths.
• Take the cable car up to Stubnerkogel for mountain views.
• Visit during the Gastein Ladies tennis tournament for a lively atmosphere.

Number 13 - Kufstein

Nicknamed the "Pearl of Tyrol," Kufstein is a charming Austrian town situated on the banks of the Inn River. It's a hub for winter sports and summer adventures, offering attractions like the Kufstein Fortress, the world's largest outdoor organ, and scenic spots like Hechtsee and Langsee.

Highlights:

• "Pearl of Tyrol" on the banks of the Inn River.
• Features Kufstein Fortress and the world's largest outdoor organ.
• Surrounded by scenic spots like Hechtsee and Langsee.

Tips:

• Explore the historic Kufstein Fortress and its panoramic views.
• Attend a concert at the fortress during the Kufstein Operetta Summer.
• Take a boat ride on the Inn River for a different perspective of the town.

Number 12 - Vorarlberg

Nestled between the Alps and Lake Constance in western Austria, Vorarlberg boasts stunning landscapes with rushing rivers, sparkling lakes, rugged peaks, and dense forests. Highlights include the Bregenz Festival, Rappenloch Gorge, Pfaender Mountain, and the ski resorts of Ski Arlberg.

Highlights:

• Nestled between the Alps and Lake Constance.
• Features rushing rivers, sparkling lakes, and dense forests.
• Highlights include Bregenz Festival and Ski Arlberg resorts.

Tips:

• Visit Bregenz during the opera festival for cultural performances.
• Explore the Rappenloch Gorge for impressive natural scenery.
• Enjoy hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter across the region.

Number 11 - Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel, located east of Innsbruck in Tyrol, is a prominent destination for mountain sports enthusiasts. The town features historic structures in its charming old town, along with attractions like the Kitzbühel Museum, Schwarzsee, and the scenic Kitzbühel Alps.

Highlights:

• Charming old town with historic structures.
• Attractions include Kitzbühel Museum and Schwarzsee.
• Surrounded by the scenic Kitzbühel Alps.

Tips:

• Visit during the Hahnenkamm Race for a thrilling ski event.
• Take the cable car up to Hahnenkamm for panoramic mountain views.
• Explore the town's boutiques and cafes in the historic center.

Number 10 - Villach

Situated on Austria's southern border, Villach is surrounded by the Villacher and Julian Alps. It's known for its historical landmarks, including Landskron Castle and the 14th-century Parish Church of St. Jakob, as well as cultural sites like the Museum der Stadt Villach and the Carinthia Relief Model.

Highlights:

• Located near the Julian and Villacher Alps.
• Features landmarks like Landskron Castle and St. Jakob Church.
• Cultural sites include the Museum der Stadt Villach.

Tips:

• Attend the Villacher Kirchtag, Austria's largest traditional festival.
• Explore the Carinthia Relief Model for a detailed view of the region.
• Visit nearby lakes like Ossiacher See for water sports and relaxation.

Number 9 - Graz

As the capital of Styria in southern Austria, Graz lies along the Mur River amidst rolling hills and lush forests. Its UNESCO-listed old town features historical and architectural gems, such as the Baroque St. Jacob's Cathedral and the Renaissance-style Habsburg Imperial Palace.

Highlights:

• Capital of Styria along the Mur River.
• UNESCO-listed old town with Baroque and Renaissance architecture.
• Attractions include St. Jacob's Cathedral and Habsburg Imperial Palace.

Tips:

• Take a walk up Schlossberg for panoramic views of Graz.
• Visit the Kunsthaus Graz for contemporary art exhibitions.
• Explore the local markets and try Styrian cuisine, like pumpkin seed oil.

Number 8 - Zillertal Alps

Bordering Austria and Italy, the Zillertal Alps offer picturesque landscapes with towering glaciers, tree-lined valleys, and jagged mountain peaks. The Hintertux Glacier, one of the world's highest skiing spots, attracts visitors year-round for skiing and hiking adventures.

Highlights:

• Bordering Austria and Italy with glaciers and valleys.
• Hintertux Glacier for year-round skiing and hiking.
• Offers scenic hiking trails and alpine landscapes.

Tips:

• Take the Zillertalbahn steam train for a scenic journey through the valley.
• Visit Mayrhofen for traditional Tyrolean hospitality and outdoor activities.
• Explore the high-altitude hiking trails for stunning panoramic views.

Number 7 - Grossglockner Alpine Road

Considered one of Austria's most scenic road trips, the Grossglockner Alpine Road winds through the Hohe Tauern National Park, culminating at the majestic Grossglockner, Austria's highest peak. It's a favorite among hikers and adventurers for its breathtaking natural beauty.

Highlights:

• Scenic road through Hohe Tauern National Park.
• Culminates at Grossglockner, Austria's highest peak.
• Popular for hiking, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives.

Tips:

• Drive early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
• Stop at the various viewpoints for breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Visit the Kaiser Franz Josef Höhe Visitor Center for exhibits on alpine wildlife.

Number 6 - Wachau

Stretching along the Danube River between Krems and Melk, Wachau Valley is renowned for its charming small towns, rolling vineyards, and dramatic cliffs. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a prominent wine region, offering scenic boat cruises and cultural experiences.

Highlights:

• Stretching along the Danube River, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Known for vineyards, charming towns like Dürnstein, and Melk Abbey.
• Offers scenic boat cruises and cultural experiences.

Tips:

• Take a bike ride along the Danube Cycle Path for picturesque views.
• Visit Dürnstein to see the ruins of Dürnstein Castle and taste local wines.
• Explore Melk Abbey for its Baroque architecture and extensive library.

Number 5 - Zell am See

Nestled among the Kitzbühel Alps, Zell am See is a picturesque town on the shores of a vibrant blue lake. It's popular year-round for skiing, snowboarding, hiking, cycling, and water sports, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Highlights:

• Picturesque town on the shores of Lake Zell.
• Surrounded by the Kitzbühel Alps for skiing and hiking.
• Year-round destination for water sports and outdoor activities.

Tips:

• Take a boat cruise on Lake Zell for views of the surrounding mountains.
• Visit Kitzsteinhorn Glacier for summer skiing and snowboarding.
• Explore Kaprun Castle and the old town of Zell am See for historical charm.

Number 4 - Innsbruck

Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery and offers a mix of history, culture, and outdoor activities. Highlights include the Baroque St. Jacob's Cathedral, the Renaissance-style Habsburg Imperial Palace, and the Nordkette Mountain with its panoramic views accessible by cable car.

Highlights:

• Capital of Tyrol surrounded by mountains.
• Features St. Jacob's Cathedral and Habsburg Imperial Palace.
• Nordkette Mountain accessible by cable car for panoramic views.

Tips:

• Visit the Bergisel Ski Jump for views of the city and Olympic history.
• Explore the Alpine Zoo for a glimpse of local wildlife.
• Try Tyrolean cuisine at local restaurants in the old town.

Number 3 - Salzkammergut

Located between Salzburg and the Dachstein mountains, Salzkammergut is celebrated for its pristine landscapes, alpine valleys, and shimmering lakes. It's a paradise for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking, with Hallstatt being a standout destination for its picturesque setting.

Highlights:

• Located between Salzburg and the Dachstein mountains.
• Pristine lakes like Hallstätter See and Wolfgangsee.
• Ideal for fishing, boating, hiking, and mountain biking.

Tips:

• Visit Hallstatt for its picturesque setting and salt mine tours.
• Take a boat cruise on Wolfgangsee for views of Schafberg Mountain.
• Explore Bad Ischl for its historical charm and imperial connections.

Number 2 - Salzburg

Famous for its Baroque architecture, Salzburg is a city near the German border with breathtaking views of the Eastern Alps. It's the birthplace of Mozart and home to historic landmarks like the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the picturesque Altstadt old town.

Highlights:

• Birthplace of Mozart with Baroque architecture.
• Hohensalzburg Fortress and Mirabell Palace.
• Picturesque old town and music festivals.

Tips:

• Attend the Salzburg Festival for classical music performances.
• Take a Sound of Music tour to visit filming locations.
• Visit Untersberg Mountain for hiking and panoramic views.

Number 1 - Vienna

Vienna, Austria's capital, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and architectural marvels. Known as the City of Music, Vienna boasts landmarks like the Gothic St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Baroque Belvedere Palace, and the grand Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Highlights:

• Austria's capital known for cultural heritage and architecture.
• St. Stephen's Cathedral and Belvedere Palace.
• Museums like Kunsthistorisches Museum and Natural History Museum.

Tips:

• Attend a performance at the Vienna State Opera.
• Visit Schönbrunn Palace and Gardens for imperial history.
• Explore Naschmarkt for local food and souvenirs.

Conclusion

Austria is a country that captivates with its diverse landscapes, historical architecture, and vibrant cultural heritage. From the picturesque lakes and alpine valleys to the grand cities filled with history and music, Austria offers something for every traveler. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, history buff, or culture lover, exploring these 15 destinations will provide an unforgettable Austrian experience. Subscribe to our YouTube Channel