Austria
Europe
Austria is a country in Central Europe known for its stunning Alpine landscapes, historic cities, and rich cultural heritage. Austria is worth visiting for its charming villages, delicious cuisine, and world-class classical music scene. The country is also home to iconic landmarks such as the historic Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna and the picturesque Hallstatt village in the Salzkammergut region.
70.72/10
65
May-Sep
German
Why Visit
Home to stunning alpine landscapes and picturesque villages.
Must Try
1. Visit the historic city of Vienna and explore the Schönbrunn Palace 2. Enjoy authentic Wiener Schnitzel in a traditional Austrian restaurant 3. Experience the breathtaking scenery of the Austrian Alps through hiking or skiing
Insider Tip
Explore the lesser-known villages like Hallstatt and Dürnstein for breathtaking views and fewer crowds. Use public transport to navigate the scenic routes and enjoy local cuisine at family-run taverns.
Must-Try Food
Wiener Schnitzel, Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel
Top Cities in Austria
Vienna
Vienna, the capital of Austria, is a city defined by its imperial history and the culture that flourished under the Habsburgs. The grand architecture and historical sites reflect this past, with the Vienna State Opera and the Kunsthistorisches Museum sitting alongside the opulent Belvedere Palace. The city attracts millions of visitors each year, drawn by its museums, concert halls, and, of course, the renowned coffee culture. The streets are a blend of traditional and modern, with a cultural scene where you can find everything from classical music to contemporary art. Public transport is efficient, making it easy to explore the many districts, each with its unique charm, while the Danube offers a scenic escape from the urban hustle.
Salzburg
Salzburg is shaped by its status as Mozart's birthplace and a UNESCO World Heritage site, with a well-preserved baroque Old Town that draws visitors in droves. The Salzach River flows through this compact city, framed by the Hohensalzburg Fortress perched above, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Streets are lined with shops selling everything from local Mozartkugel chocolates to traditional Austrian attire. While the city buzzes with tourists, its culture remains genuine, with classical concerts and festivals celebrating its musical heritage. People come for the well-preserved historical sites and the chance to visit places like St. Stephen's Cathedral and Hellbrunn Palace, both of which seem to be in constant competition for attention.
Melk
Melk is defined by its impressive abbey, a Baroque masterpiece perched on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River. This historic town is small enough that you might bump into the locals while admiring the architecture, and it's hard to escape the abbey's influence on everything from the skyline to the tourist economy. Most visitors come specifically to see Melk Abbey, which houses a library, frescoes, and a beautiful church, all of which draw in those with more than a passing interest in culture or history. Outside the abbey, the rest of Melk is a mix of narrow streets and small squares, but ultimately, it's the views and the history that keep people coming back.
Graz
Graz, Austria's second-largest city, owes much of its charm to its well-preserved Old Town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic heart is a mosaic of Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture, shaped by centuries of diverse influences. The presence of the University of Graz injects a youthful energy into the city, leading to a lively arts scene, cafes, and a smattering of festivals throughout the year. The contrast between the old buildings and the modern spaces of the university creates a unique blend that keeps both locals and students engaged. People visit Graz primarily for its cultural offerings and to explore its stylish blend of history and contemporary life, along with the food and drink that come with it.
Innsbruck
Innsbruck, a medium-sized city surrounded by towering mountains, is defined by its historical mix of Gothic and Baroque architecture, particularly visible in the Old Town that features the famous Golden Roof, a 15th-century balcony covered in 2,738 gilded tiles. This blend of urban culture and alpine scenery shapes its identity, attracting both tourists and a student population due to its universities. The city's strategic location makes it a hub for winter sports enthusiasts, but it also serves as a gateway to explore the wider Tyrol region. Visitors mainly come for the historical charm intertwined with outdoor activities, making it a year-round destination for those wanting to ski in the winter and walk in the summer mountains.
Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel, a small Austrian town, is a historical ski haven that became famous for its annual Hahnenkamm race, which attracts skiers from all over the world. The old town features medieval buildings alongside upscale boutiques, creating a mix of history and luxury that few other places can match. The surrounding mountains offer a backdrop for both winter sports and summer hikes, ensuring that visitors have something to do year-round. The main reason people come to Kitzbühel is for the skiing, but you might find yourself entering a shop selling very expensive cheese on your way to the slopes, which could leave your wallet feeling lighter than your ski gear.
Zell am See
Zell am See, a small Austrian town, revolves entirely around its lake and the surrounding mountains. The glacial lake is the main attraction, offering swimming in summer and ice skating in winter, while the nearby ski resorts draw tourists for seasonal sport. The town is compact, meaning everything is close together: shops, restaurants, and access to the ski lifts are all within walking distance. The locals are largely tied to tourism, and while the town has an authentic alpine charm, it’s the outdoor activities that are the primary reason most people visit. In winter, the slopes of Schmittenhöhe are where the fun happens, while summer sees hikers and cyclists hitting the trails and enjoying the scenery.