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20 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria

Austria is a country of majestic beauty, where imperial elegance meets breathtaking Alpine scenery. From grand palaces and historic cities to shimmering lakes, towering mountains, and charming villages, Austria offers an unforgettable vacation for every kind of traveler. Its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless outdoor activities make it a top destination in Central Europe.

If you’re planning a trip to this European gem, discovering the most beautiful places to visit and the top things to do is essential. This guide will take you through 20 of the most stunning and picturesque destinations in Austria, helping you plan a truly remarkable holiday. Get ready to explore Austria and experience its diverse magic!

Vienna, Austria

1. Vienna

As the majestic capital of Austria, Vienna is synonymous with elegance, history, and artistic tradition. This Imperial city was once the heart of the Habsburg Empire, and its grandeur is evident in every corner, from the magnificent Hofburg Palace and the sprawling Schönbrunn Palace (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) to the stunning Belvedere Palace. Vienna is a global hub for classical music, the birthplace of Mozart and Strauss, and home to the world-renowned Vienna State Opera. Its charming coffee house culture, world-class museums, and beautiful Ringstrasse boulevard make it an essential stop for any cultural traveler.

  • Location: Eastern Austria.

  • Best for: Culture lovers, history buffs, classical music enthusiasts, foodies, romantic getaways.

  • Things to Do:

    • Explore the Schönbrunn Palace and its glorious gardens.

    • Visit the Hofburg Palace, the former imperial residence.

    • Admire St. Stephen’s Cathedral (Stephansdom) in the city center.

    • Attend an opera at the Vienna State Opera or a classical concert.

    • Experience the unique coffee house culture and enjoy a Sachertorte.

    • Stroll along the Ringstrasse and visit museums like the Kunsthistorisches Museum.

Salzburg located in Western Austria, near the German border

2. Salzburg

Nestled amidst Alpine scenery, Salzburg is a city of stunning Baroque beauty and the revered birthplace of Mozart. Its charming Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a delightful maze of narrow streets, grand squares, and impressive churches, dominated by the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress perched high above. Fans of “The Sound of Music” will recognize many famous sites, including the picturesque Mirabell Palace and Gardens. Salzburg offers a rich blend of musical heritage, historical charm, and easy access to the stunning Salzkammergut lakes, making it a truly captivating destination.

  • Location: Western Austria, near the German border.

  • Best for: Classical music lovers, history buffs, romantic getaways, “Sound of Music” fans.

  • Things to Do:

    • Explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress for panoramic views.

    • Wander through the Mirabell Palace and Gardens.

    • Visit Mozart’s Birthplace and Residence.

    • Stroll through Salzburg Old Town and its famous Getreidegasse.

    • Admire the Salzburg Cathedral and Residenzplatz.

Graz City in Styria, Southeast Austria

3. Graz

Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, offers a vibrant blend of historical charm and modern architectural innovation. Its beautifully preserved UNESCO World Heritage Old Town is a delight to explore, with its distinctive red-tiled roofs and the iconic Schlossberg hill crowned by its famous Uhrturm (clock tower). However, Graz is also a UNESCO City of Design, known for its contemporary architecture like the futuristic Kunsthaus (Graz Art Museum) and Murinsel (floating island). With a lively student population, a thriving culinary scene, and easy access to Styria’s wine country, Graz offers a refreshing and dynamic urban experience.

  • Location: Styria, Southeast Austria.

  • Best for: Architecture enthusiasts, foodies, cultural explorers, those seeking a less-touristy city experience.

  • Things to Do:

    • Climb or take the funicular up the Schlossberg for city views and the Uhrturm.

    • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Old Town.

    • Visit the futuristic Kunsthaus Graz and Murinsel.

    • Wander through the lively farmers’ markets.

    • Enjoy the vibrant culinary scene and Styrian specialties.

Hallstatt in Upper Austria, Salzkammergut region

4. Hallstatt

Hallstatt is an incredibly picturesque and often described as a fairytale village, nestled between a beautiful lake and towering mountains in the Salzkammergut region. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its charming traditional houses cascading down the hillside, reflected in the calm waters of Lake Hallstatt. Beyond its postcard-perfect views, Hallstatt boasts the world’s oldest salt mine, accessible by funicular, and the famous Skywalk for panoramic vistas. Despite its popularity, its undeniable charm and stunning natural setting make it an unforgettable place to visit, especially in the quieter seasons.

  • Location: Upper Austria, Salzkammergut region.

  • Best for: Photographers, romantic getaways, nature lovers, those seeking charm and tranquility.

  • Things to Do:

    • Walk through the charming village and admire its unique architecture.

    • Take the funicular up to the Skywalk for panoramic views.

    • Explore the historic salt mine.

    • Take a boat ride on Lake Hallstatt.

    • Visit the Bone House (Charnel House) in St. Michael’s Chapel.

Innsbruck in Tyrol, Western Austria

5. Innsbruck

Surrounded by the towering peaks of the Tyrolean Alps, Innsbruck is the “Alpine Capital” of Austria, renowned for its stunning mountain backdrop and a vibrant urban core. The city famously hosted the Winter Olympics twice and remains a hub for winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, as well as summer hiking. Its charming Old Town features the iconic Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), a glittering landmark. A ride on the Nordkette cable car transports you from the city center directly into high alpine terrain, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Innsbruck perfectly blends imperial history with thrilling outdoor adventures.

  • Location: Tyrol, Western Austria.

  • Best for: Skiers, hikers, mountain enthusiasts, urban explorers, history lovers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Ride the Nordkette cable car to the “Top of Innsbruck” for spectacular views.

    • Visit the Golden Roof in the Old Town.

    • Explore the Imperial Palace (Hofburg) and Ambras Castle.

    • Go skiing or hiking in the surrounding Tyrolean Alps.

    • Visit the Bergisel Ski Jump.

Zell am See in Salzburg State, Western Austria

6. Zell am See

Zell am See is a stunning Alpine resort town perfectly situated on the shores of a beautiful, crystal-clear lake (Lake Zell), with the majestic Kitzsteinhorn glacier and Schmittenhöhe mountain rising behind it. This idyllic location makes it a year-round paradise for outdoor activities. In summer, visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, paragliding, and hiking in the surrounding mountains. In winter, it transforms into a top skiing and snowboarding destination with access to the vast Ski Circus Saalbach Hinterglemm Leogang Fieberbrunn. Zell am See embodies the best of Austrian alpine charm and natural beauty.

  • Location: Salzburg State, Western Austria.

  • Best for: Skiers, hikers, families, water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Swim or boat on Lake Zell.

    • Take a cable car up Schmittenhöhe for panoramic views and hiking.

    • Visit the Kitzsteinhorn glacier for year-round snow activities.

    • Go hiking or mountain biking on scenic trails.

    • Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in winter.

Wachau Valley in Lower Austria, along the Danube River

7. Wachau Valley

The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site along the Danube River, is a breathtakingly beautiful landscape renowned for its terraced vineyards, charming medieval villages, and impressive monasteries. This region is famous for its exquisite white wines, particularly Grüner Veltliner and Riesling, making wine tasting a popular activity. Highlights include the magnificent Melk Abbey, a stunning Baroque monastery perched high above the river, and the picturesque village of Dürnstein with its iconic blue church and castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned. A boat trip along the Danube offers unparalleled views of this idyllic valley.

  • Location: Lower Austria, along the Danube River.

  • Best for: Wine lovers, history buffs, cultural explorers, photographers, romantic trips.

  • Things to Do:

    • Go wine tasting at local wineries in towns like Dürnstein and Spitz.

    • Visit the magnificent Melk Abbey.

    • Explore the charming village of Dürnstein and its castle ruins.

    • Take a boat trip on the Danube River.

    • Cycle along the Danube Cycle Path through the vineyards.

Lake Wörthersee in Carinthia, Southern Austria

8. Lake Wörthersee, Carinthia

Located in the southernmost province of Carinthia, Lake Wörthersee is one of Austria’s largest and warmest alpine lakes, making it a highly popular summer destination. Its incredibly clear, often turquoise waters are perfect for swimming, water sports like stand-up paddleboarding and water skiing, and simply relaxing on its idyllic shores. The lake is surrounded by charming villages like Velden, known for its glamorous casino, and Maria Wörth, with its picturesque peninsula church. The nearby Pyramidenkogel observation tower offers stunning panoramic views over the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect blend of natural beauty and leisure activities.

  • Location: Carinthia, Southern Austria.

  • Best for: Summer holidays, families, water sports enthusiasts, relaxation, photographers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Go swimming, boating, or practice water sports on the warm lake.

    • Visit the Pyramidenkogel observation tower for panoramic views.

    • Explore the charming villages around the lake, like Velden and Maria Wörth.

    • Take a boat cruise on Lake Wörthersee.

Grossglockner High Alpine Road in Austria

9. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is Austria’s most famous panoramic road and an engineering marvel. It winds its way up to the Grossglockner, Austria’s highest mountain (3,798 m or 12,461 ft), taking you through 36 thrilling hairpin bends and offering truly breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Alps, glaciers, and alpine meadows. The road leads to the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoint, where you can marvel at the Pasterze Glacier, Austria’s largest glacier. It’s a truly unforgettable scenic drive for motorists, cyclists, and nature enthusiasts, especially stunning during summer and fall.

  • Location: Salzburg and Carinthia (connecting Heiligenblut and Bruck).

  • Best for: Scenic drives, photographers, nature lovers, cyclists, mountain enthusiasts.

    • Drive the 48-kilometer (30-mile) high alpine road, enjoying the 36 hairpin bends.

    • Stop at numerous viewpoints for incredible panoramic views.

    • Visit the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoint to see the Pasterze Glacier.

    • Explore the various exhibitions and themed playgrounds along the road.

Tyrol (Tirol), Austria

10. Tyrol (Tirol)

The region of Tyrol (Tirol) truly embodies the essence of an Alpine paradise, with its dramatic mountains, lush valleys, and charming traditional villages. It’s a year-round destination, offering some of the best hiking and skiing in Europe. Beyond the adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, Tyrol is rich in unique culture and tradition, with picturesque towns like Alpbach, known for its wooden architecture, and the capital Innsbruck. Whether you’re seeking challenging mountain adventures, serene alpine walks, or authentic Tyrolean hospitality, this region delivers an unforgettable experience amidst stunning scenery.

  • Location: Western Austria.

  • Best for: Skiers, snowboarders, hikers, climbers, nature lovers, cultural explorers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Go hiking or skiing in world-class resorts like St. Anton or Kitzbühel.

    • Explore charming Tyrolean villages like Alpbach or Seefeld.

    • Experience traditional Tyrolean culture and cuisine.

    • Visit Innsbruck, the Alpine capital.

Lake Constance (Bodensee) in Vorarlberg, Western Austria

11. Lake Constance (Bodensee)

Lake Constance, or Bodensee, is the third-largest lake in Central Europe, shared by Austria, Germany, and Switzerland. The Austrian part, primarily around Bregenz, offers stunning lakeside scenery with the majestic Alps as a backdrop. It’s a popular spot for boating, swimming, and cycling along the lakefront. Bregenz is famous for its summer Bregenz Festival, which features spectacular opera performances on a floating stage on the lake. The combination of clear waters, lush surroundings, and cultural events makes Lake Constance a delightful and refreshing escape.

  • Location: Vorarlberg, Western Austria (bordering Germany and Switzerland).

  • Best for: Boating, cycling, cultural events, relaxation, scenic beauty.

  • Things to Do:

    • Take a boat trip across Lake Constance.

    • Attend the Bregenz Festival (in summer).

    • Cycle along the lake shore.

    • Swim in the clear waters.

Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria

12. Hohe Tauern National Park

Hohe Tauern National Park is the largest national park in Austria and a true wilderness sanctuary. It encompasses some of the highest mountains in the country, vast glaciers, and incredibly diverse ecosystems, ranging from alpine meadows to deep valleys. The park is a haven for wildlife, including ibex, chamois, golden eagles, and marmots. It offers extensive hiking trails, from leisurely walks to challenging multi-day treks, and is home to the powerful Krimml Waterfalls. Exploring Hohe Tauern provides an immersive experience in the heart of Austria’s most magnificent natural landscapes.

  • Location: Salzburg, Tyrol, and Carinthia.

  • Best for: Hikers, mountaineers, wildlife enthusiasts, nature photographers, birdwatchers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Go hiking on numerous trails, including long-distance routes.

    • Spot diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

    • Visit the Krimml Waterfalls, Europe’s highest waterfall.

    • Explore glaciers and high alpine terrain with guided tours.

Krimml Waterfalls in Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria

13. Krimml Waterfalls

Located within the Hohe Tauern National Park, the Krimml Waterfalls are the highest waterfalls in Austria, plunging a remarkable 380 meters (1,247 feet) over three powerful stages. Fed by the glacial Krimmler Ache river, these incredibly powerful cascades create a stunning natural spectacle, especially impressive during the summer when glacier melt is at its peak. A well-maintained trail allows visitors to hike alongside the falls, experiencing the misty spray and thunderous roar up close from various viewpoints. Beyond its visual grandeur, the fine water mist is even believed to have therapeutic effects, making it a place of both awe and healing.

  • Location: Salzburg State, within Hohe Tauern National Park.

  • Best for: Nature lovers, hikers, photographers, those seeking natural spectacle.

  • Things to Do:

    • Hike the well-maintained trail alongside the three stages of the waterfalls.

    • Experience the powerful spray and sound of the cascading water.

    • Enjoy various viewpoints for stunning photographs.

Bad Gastein, Austria

14. Bad Gastein

Nestled in the Hohe Tauern mountain range, Bad Gastein is a unique Alpine resort famous for its Belle Époque architecture, thermal springs, and dramatic location built on a steep mountainside around a powerful waterfall. This historic spa town has attracted royalty and celebrities for centuries, seeking the healing properties of its radon-rich thermal waters. Beyond its renowned thermal baths, Bad Gastein offers excellent skiing in winter, with access to the Gastein ski areas, and beautiful hiking and mountain biking trails in summer. It’s a blend of old-world charm, wellness, and alpine adventure.

  • Location: Salzburg State, Gastein Valley.

  • Best for: Spa & wellness, skiers, history lovers, those seeking unique alpine charm.

  • Things to Do:

    • Relax in the thermal springs and Felsentherme spa.

    • Go skiing or snowboarding in the Gastein ski areas.

    • Admire the unique Belle Époque architecture.

    • Hike in the surrounding Alpine scenery.

    • See the natural waterfall in the town center.

Alpine meadows in Alpbach, Austria

15. Alpbach

Often crowned as Austria’s most beautiful village, Alpbach in Tyrol is renowned for its consistent and charming traditional wooden architecture, strict building codes ensuring its authentic appearance. Nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains, Alpbach offers a serene and idyllic escape. In summer, its meadows burst with colorful flowers, perfect for gentle hiking and enjoying the fresh alpine air. In winter, it transforms into a cozy winter wonderland, offering family-friendly skiing and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s the epitome of Austrian rural charm and natural beauty.

  • Location: Tyrol, Alpbach Valley.

  • Best for: Tranquil getaways, photographers, families, hikers, skiers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Stroll through the charming village and admire the traditional wooden houses.

    • Go hiking in the surrounding Alpine meadows.

    • Enjoy skiing or snowboarding in the Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau area.

    • Relax and enjoy the peaceful Alpine scenery.

Skiing and snowboarding in Lech am Arlberg, Austria

16. Lech am Arlberg

For those seeking an upscale skiing experience, Lech am Arlberg is Austria’s premier luxury ski resort, part of the world-famous Arlberg ski area (which includes St. Anton). Known for its exquisite hospitality, gourmet dining, and direct access to vast, snow-sure slopes, Lech attracts a discerning clientele. It’s a picturesque Alpine village with a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. While primarily famous for winter sports, including superb skiing for all levels and renowned off-piste opportunities, the region also offers beautiful hiking in the warmer months.

  • Location: Vorarlberg, Arlberg region.

  • Best for: Luxury skiers, snowboarders, fine dining, exclusive holidays.

  • Things to Do:

    • Experience world-class skiing and snowboarding.

    • Enjoy luxury dining and Après-ski.

    • Explore the charming, upscale village.

    • Go hiking in the summer months.

Worthersee (Lake Wörthersee), Austria

17. Worthersee (Lake Wörthersee)

Lake Wörthersee, located in Carinthia, is one of Austria’s most popular lakes, particularly in summer. It’s renowned for its exceptionally warm, almost Caribbean-blue waters, making it ideal for swimming and all sorts of water sports like waterskiing, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing. The lake is lined with picturesque towns like Velden, known for its glamorous casino, and Maria Wörth, with its charming peninsula church. The combination of warm water, sunny climate, and beautiful surrounding scenery makes Wörthersee a prime spot for a leisurely and active summer holiday.

  • Location: Carinthia, Southern Austria.

  • Best for: Summer holidays, water sports, families, relaxation, luxury travelers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Swim in the warm, crystal-clear waters.

    • Enjoy water sports such as water skiing, paddleboarding, or sailing.

    • Explore the lively town of Velden and its famous casino.

    • Visit the beautiful pilgrimage church in Maria Wörth.

    • Take a boat cruise on the lake to admire the villas and scenery.

Capital of Burgenland, Eisenstadt, Austria

18. Eisenstadt

Eisenstadt, the capital of Burgenland, is a charming city with a rich musical heritage, most famously associated with the renowned composer Joseph Haydn. His former residence, now a museum, is a key attraction, alongside the magnificent Esterházy Palace, a Baroque masterpiece that once housed Haydn as its Kapellmeister. The palace’s Haydnsaal (Haydn Hall) is a beautiful concert venue. Eisenstadt offers a more tranquil city experience compared to Vienna, surrounded by vineyards and close to Lake Neusiedl, making it a delightful stop for history, music, and wine lovers.

  • Location: Burgenland, Eastern Austria.

  • Best for: Music lovers, history buffs, wine enthusiasts, cultural explorers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Visit Esterházy Palace and the Haydnsaal.

    • Explore the Haydn House museum.

    • Walk around the charming old town.

    • Enjoy wine tasting in the surrounding vineyards.

    • Visit nearby Lake Neusiedl, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Krems an der Donau, Austria

19. Krems an der Donau

Krems an der Donau is one of the oldest cities in Austria and serves as the western gateway to the magnificent Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This historic city boasts a beautifully preserved Old Town with charming streets, ancient city gates (like Steiner Tor), and significant churches. Krems is a major center for Austrian wine, particularly the renowned Grüner Veltliner and Riesling from the Wachau region. It’s an excellent starting point for exploring the surrounding vineyards, picturesque villages, and the impressive Melk Abbey further down the Danube River, perfect for a combined cultural and culinary adventure.

  • Location: Lower Austria, at the eastern end of the Wachau Valley.

  • Best for: Wine enthusiasts, history buffs, cyclists, cultural explorers.

  • Things to Do:

    • Explore the historic Old Town and the Steiner Tor gate.

    • Visit the various churches and museums in Krems.

    • Go wine tasting at local vintners in and around the city.

    • Cycle along the Danube Cycle Path into the Wachau Valley.

Hohe Wand Nature Park, Lower Austria

20. Hohe Wand Nature Park, Lower Austria

For those seeking accessible nature and panoramic views close to Vienna, Hohe Wand Nature Park is a fantastic choice. This limestone plateau offers stunning vistas of the Vienna Basin and surrounding mountains, often referred to as the “Skywalk of the Eastern Alps.” The park features numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels, a spectacular cliff-top path with a viewing platform, and even a small wildlife park with native animals. It’s a wonderful place for a day trip to enjoy fresh air, beautiful landscapes, and a bit of adventure, showcasing the diverse beauty of Lower Austria.

  • Location: Lower Austria, about an hour south of Vienna.

  • Best for: Hikers, families, nature lovers, photographers, day-trippers from Vienna.

  • Things to Do:

    • Walk the “Skywalk” viewing platform for panoramic views.

    • Explore various hiking trails.

    • Visit the wildlife park.

    • Enjoy the playground and adventure activities (e.g., climbing garden).

Austria is a country that truly delivers on every front, from the imperial grandeur of Vienna and the musical heritage of Salzburg to the breathtaking peaks of the Alps and the serene beauty of its lakes. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, an adventure travel experience, a deep dive into history and culture, or simply a relaxing holiday amidst stunning natural wonders, Austria offers an unforgettable journey for every kind of explorer.

Ready to turn your Austrian dreams into reality? Visit Hourglass Expeditions today to customize your perfect Austria itinerary and let us help you plan every detail of your incredible journey!

Map of Austria

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