(Some of them you didn’t even know existed.)
Regarding travel, Austria is a beautiful country with picturesque towns and cities. From the cultural capital city of Vienna to the quaint mountain village of Hallstatt, there are so many places in Austria that you must see during your visit!
Here’s our list of the best places to visit in Austria – all offering unique experiences from breathtaking views, exciting attractions, and memorable activities.
Whether you like urban escapes or outdoor adventures – these locations have something special waiting around every corner!
So, pack your bags and get ready as we explore some of the best places to visit in Austria!
Austria offers a variety of destinations for visitors to explore, from the grandeur of Vienna and Schönbrunn Palace to charming villages like Hallstatt and Bregenz. Enjoy cultural attractions such as Mirabell Gardens, Mozart’s birthplace, Hohensalzburg Fortress, and Lentos Art Museum. Experience outdoor activities like river cruises along the Danube or skiing at nearby ski resorts.
Best Places to Visit in AUSTRIA
Bregenz
Bregenz lies at the westernmost point of the state Vorarlberg province, on the shores of Lake Constance and right on the border with Switzerland and Germany.
It’s an excellent base for anyone wanting to explore three countries within the same holiday, allowing them to do so comfortably and efficiently in a possible manner.
Attractions include the annual Opera Festival held in July and August, showcasing international performances of operas and musical pieces composed by songwriters from past, present, and future eras.
Outdoor Activities
Bregenz offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The lake is a great place to swim and boat, and the nearby mountains have great hiking and biking trails.
Many parks throughout the city provide scenic views of the surrounding area. Additionally, several ski resorts near Bregenz make it an ideal destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
Cultural Places
In addition to its natural beauty, Bregenz is also home to some fantastic cultural places. The Kunsthaus Museum has an extensive collection of modern art from Europe, and other galleries show work by Austrian artists like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele.
Visitors can also explore historical sites like Schattenburg Castle or visit one of the many churches throughout town that date centuries ago.
Furthermore, Bregenz hosts an opera festival each summer at their open-air theatre, attracting thousands of visitors annually.
Shopping & Dining
When the time comes to take a break from sightseeing and exploring nature’s wonders in Bregenz, visitors can enjoy other aspects of the city.
Shop at one of the many boutiques or department stores scattered throughout town or sample some delicious local cuisine at one of the numerous restaurants serving traditional Austrian dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel or Apfelstrudel (apple strudel).
Plenty of international eateries are also available for those looking for more exotic flavors.
Overall Experience
Whether you’re looking for adventure outdoors or want to immerse yourself in culture indoors, Bregenz has something special waiting just around every corner.
With its beautiful scenery and exciting activities and attractions, this charming city will surely leave you with lasting memories that will stay long after your trip ends.
Key Takeaway: Bregenz offers a unique experience, combining outdoor activities like swimming and hiking with attractions such as museums, galleries, and historical sites. Shopping and dining options are also plentiful.
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Linz
Linz is situated on the north side of the Danube river and is the third-largest city in the country, with roots dating back to Roman times.
This historic city was once an important trading post on the Danube River and has since become one of Austria’s most popular tourist destinations.
It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers to enjoy the outdoors without having to venture too far from the main urban centers throughout Austria.
The Old Town
Linz’s medieval old town is full of historic buildings, churches, monuments, and cobblestone streets. Visitors can explore this area on foot or take a guided tour for more information about its history.
One must-see attraction here is Landhausplatz Square which features many beautiful Baroque buildings, such as City Hall (Rathaus).
Other attractions include Stadtturm Tower, with stunning views over Linz; Hauptplatz Square, with its impressive fountain; Schlossberg Castle Hill; and Voestalpine Steelworks Museum.
Shopping & Dining
Shopping enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy in Linz. Several shopping malls throughout the city, including PlusCity Shopping Mall, offer designer stores, cafes, and restaurants.
For those shoppers looking for something unique, there are also numerous independent boutiques selling handmade items from local designers and vintage clothing stores scattered around town.
As far as dining goes, there’s no shortage of options either – from traditional Austrian dishes at cozy taverns to international cuisine at trendy eateries – you won’t be disappointed.
Culture & Entertainment
Regarding the culture, plenty is going on in Linz all year round. From classical music concerts at Brucknerhaus Concert Hall to theatre performances at Landestheater Theatre – you won’t be short of things to do during your stay here.
And if that wasn’t enough, why not check out some live music venues or even catch a movie at Moviemento Cinema?
You could also spend an afternoon exploring one of the many museums, such as Lentos Art Museum or Voestalpine Steelworks Museum – both offer exciting insights into their respective topics, so make sure you don’t miss out.
If you’re visiting for nightlife, go no further than Posthof Club, where they host regular events ranging from comedy shows to DJs playing everything from techno, house, disco, and rock.
Alternatively, head down towards Donaulände Promenade, where bars line both sides of the river offering fabulous views over Linz while sipping cocktails under starry skies – a perfect way to end your evening.
Key Takeaway: Linz is a great place to visit for culture, entertainment, shopping, and dining. Must-see attractions include Landhausplatz Square, Stadtturm Tower, Hauptplatz Square, and Brucknerhaus Concert Hall. Other activities include exploring museums such as Lentos Art Museum or Voestalpine Steelworks Museum, going to Posthof Club for live music events, or enjoying nightlife along Donaulände Promenade with its bars and stunning views over the city.
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Sankt Pölten
Just outside Vienna, on the banks of the Danube River, Sankt Pölten is an ideal day trip destination if you want something quieter than the bustling capital city of Viena often provides, yet still close enough so that you don’t have to travel far.
The Old Town
With its cobblestone streets and historic buildings that haven’t changed for hundreds of years, Sankt Polten’s old town gives visitors a unique look into the past.
There are several museums here, such as the City Museum, where you can learn about local history and culture, or visit one of Europe’s oldest pharmacies at Schmiedgasse Pharmacy Museum.
Outdoor Activities
For those looking for outdoor activities, there are plenty of options in Sankt Pölten too.
In the area around the town, there are lots of lush forests with trails for walking or mountain biking. In the summer, you can swim or fish in the lakes nearby.
You can also taste wine at some of Austria’s best vineyards just outside of the city, or you can visit nearby villages like Gopfritz an der Wild to see how people live in the countryside traditionally.
The Food
Are you looking to indulge your taste buds? Head to Rathausplatz Square, where many restaurants serve delicious local food like Wiener Schnitzel (a cutlet of veal that has been breaded) and Tafelspitz (boiled beef). For dessert, try some Apfelstrudel (apple strudel)—it’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
No matter what type of traveler you are, Sankt Pölten offers a unique combination of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it an ideal destination for those looking to experience mild luxury.
Key Takeaway: Sankt Polten is a great place for custom luxury trips. Its cobblestone streets, picturesque buildings, museums, outdoor activities like hiking or mountain biking trails, vineyards, and traditional rural life give visitors a unique look into the past. Plus, delicious regional dishes.
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Graz
Graz is a beautiful city in the south of Austria. It’s known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant culture. It is where three rivers come together.
The old town city center is full of medieval buildings, cobblestone streets, and picturesque squares, making it one of the most romantic cities in central Europe.
History
Graz has been inhabited since prehistoric times and was a significant Roman settlement during the 2nd century BC. In 1281, Graz became part of Austria until 1918, when Italy annexed it after World War I.
After World War II, Austria retook control of Graz, but the city’s economy went down a lot because it was right on the Iron Curtain between East and West Germany.
However, this period also saw a revival in cultural activity and a surge in tourism thanks to its stunning scenery and history.
Architecture
The Old Town area features many impressive examples of Renaissance-era architecture, including Schlossberg Castle, which overlooks the city from atop a hilltop fortress; Burgplatz Square with its baroque fountain; Hauptplatz Square, with its grand arcades; Landhaus Palace, which houses several government offices; Stadtpfarrkirche Church with its distinctive onion domes; Kunsthaus art museum featuring modern works by local artists.
There are also plenty of smaller churches scattered throughout Graz’s neighborhoods, such as Minoritenkirche Church, built in 13th-century Gothic style, or Jakomini Church, constructed in 17th-century Baroque style – both worth visiting if you have time.
Culture & Entertainment
Graz is a beautiful city with plenty of attractions, making it an ideal destination for those interested in experiencing Austria’s culture and history.
Key Takeaway: Graz is a beautiful city in Austria with plenty of historical attractions to explore, such as Schlossberg Castle, Burgplatz Square, Hauptplatz Square, Landhaus Palace, and Stadtpfarrkirche Church. Other highlights include the Kunsthaus art museum and several churches with unique architecture.
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Innsbruck
Innsbruck is an Austrian Alps city located between Munich and Verona. It’s known for its stunning mountain scenery and outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and biking. Innsbruck has something to offer everyone, from the avid adventurer to those looking for a relaxing getaway.
Skiing
For those who enjoy skiing or snowboarding, Innsbruck is an ideal destination. With five ski resorts within easy reach of the city center, you can easily find slopes suitable for your skill level.
The Nordkette Mountain offers some of the best views over Innsbruck, with cable cars taking visitors up to 2256 meters above sea level. On clear days you can even see into Italy.
Sightseeing
If you’re more interested in sightseeing than hitting the ski slopes, there are plenty of attractions in Innsbruck too. One popular spot is Golden Roof Park which features a balcony decorated with 2657 gold-plated copper tiles built by Emperor Maximilian I back in the 1500s as part of his residence at Hofburg Palace (now City Hall).
You can also visit Ambras Castle, which houses several collections, including an armory from medieval times through the 19th century, portraits from the Renaissance, and Baroque furniture pieces.
Shopping and Dining
In addition, there are plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining around town—especially along Maria-Theresien Street, where you’ll find everything from souvenir shops to high-end boutiques selling designer goods like jewelry and watches made locally by artisans using traditional techniques passed down through generations.
If you’re hungry after exploring all day, numerous restaurants serve local specialties such as schnitzel or Kaiserschmarrn (a sweet pancake dish).
Nightlife & Entertainment
Finally, don’t forget about nightlife either – whether it’s catching live music at one of many bars or dancing until dawn at nightclubs like P1 Club & Lounge near the old town square. There is always something going on here, no matter the time.
Innsbruck is a picturesque city in the Austrian Alps, offering stunning views and activities to suit all tastes. For those looking for an even more unique experience, Graz is the next destination worth exploring.
Key Takeaway: Innsbruck is an ideal destination for those who love skiing, sightseeing, shopping, and dining. Highlights include Golden Roof Park, Ambras Castle, Maria-Theresien Street, and P1 Club & Lounge.
Hallstatt
Hallstatt is a gorgeous village located on the shores of Lake Hallstatt in Austria. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the oldest settlements in Austria. There is evidence of people living there as far back as prehistoric times.
Hallstatt is one of the most charming towns in Austria, and the picturesque setting makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking a peaceful getaway.
The lake offers plenty of activities, from boat rides across its tranquil waters to swimming and fishing. Several hiking trails around the area offer spectacular views over the lake and surrounding mountains.
For those who want to explore further, salt mines nearby can be visited as part of guided tours or independently.
The village is full of traditional Austrian charm, with cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, cafes serving delicious local cuisine, and quaint shops selling souvenirs such as wooden carvings and handmade jewelry.
Visitors can also learn about the area’s history at museums or go to events like concerts at open-air venues in the summer.
For those seeking some relaxation after sightseeing, Hallstatt is a spa town. It has many places offering treatments such as massages and facials using natural ingredients sourced from nearby farms or gardens – perfect for recharging your batteries before heading home.
Key Takeaway: Hallstatt is a charming lakeside village in Austria, renowned for its picturesque views and historical architecture. For those looking to experience more of the country’s beauty, Innsbruck awaits its unique alpine charm.
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Salzburg
Salzburg is a city in Austria with a lot of culture, history, and beauty to offer its visitors. It lies on the banks of the Salzach River, and this charming city is known for its Baroque architecture and spectacular views from Hohensalzburg Fortress.
Mozart
The birthplace of Mozart, Salzburg, has been a cultural center since the Middle Ages.
Visitors can explore many sites related to his life, such as his home, where he was born in 1756 and lived until 1773, and St Peter’s Cemetery, where he was buried.
Or perhaps go in a completely different direction and take a guided tour through Mirabell Gardens, featured prominently in The Sound Of Music movie.
Art & Culture
There are several museums for those interested in art and culture, including the Museum der Moderne Monchsberg, which houses modern art exhibitions and sculptures by renowned artists like Anselm Kiefer and Andy Warhol.
Other attractions include Hellbrunn Palace with its trick fountains, Getreidegasse – one of Europe’s oldest shopping streets – plus numerous churches such as St Peter’s Abbey Church, built between 1614-1628 with its ornate interior featuring frescoes by Paul Troger.
Food & Entertainment
When it comes to dining food, there are plenty of restaurants serving traditional Austrian cuisine along with international dishes from around the world.
After dinner, why not enjoy some live music at one of Salzburg’s many bars or participate in an outdoor concert at Festung Hohensalzburg?
Alternatively, you could relax on Kapuzinerberg Hill overlooking Old Town or visit nearby Lake Fuschlsee.
No matter your interests, you will find something to do during your stay in Salzburg, so make sure you add this beautiful destination to your list.
Key Takeaway: Salzburg, Austria, offers visitors a unique combination of culture, history, and beauty. It has many attractions, such as Mozart’s home, museums, churches, restaurants, and outdoor concerts at Festung Hohensalzburg. Enjoy activities like sailing or windsurfing on Lake Fuschlsee or relax on Kapuzinerberg Hill overlooking Old Town.
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Vienna
Vienna is a breathtaking city located in the heart of Austria. Vienna offers something for everyone, from its grand palaces to its quaint cobblestone streets.
With its rich history, culture, and architecture, it’s no wonder that Vienna has been named one of the most livable cities in the world.
Historical Sites
The Austrian capital is home to some of Europe’s oldest monuments and buildings.
The Imperial Palace (Hofburg) dated back to 1275 and was once home to the Habsburg dynasty. It now houses several museums, including the Sisi Museum, which celebrates Empress Elisabeth, who lived there during her reign as empress consort from 1854-1898.
Other notable historical sites include Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, St Stephen’s Cathedral, and Rathaus.
Cultural Attractions
Vienna is known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous theaters, opera houses, and concert halls offering performances year-round, such as at Theater an der Wien or Volksoper Wien.
Those travelers looking for a more interactive experience can visit Prater amusement park or take part in one of many festivals held throughout the year, like Wiener Festwochen or Life Ball – Europe’s largest charity event supporting HIV/AIDS research & prevention efforts worldwide since 1993.
Shopping & Dining
From luxury boutiques on Kärntner Strasse to local markets selling fresh produce at Naschmarkt – Vienna has something for every shopping taste.
Food enthusiasts will love exploring Viennese cuisine with dishes like schnitzel served with potato salad or apple strudel made with freshly picked apples from nearby farms—all washed down by a glass of Grüner Veltliner wine.
Nightlife & Entertainment
After dark, Vienna comes alive with clubs playing everything from jazz music at Porgy & Bess Club to EDM beats at Flex Club. At the same time, bars offer traditional Austrian beers like Ottakringer alongside international favorites like Guinness Stout.
There are also plenty of pubs where you can enjoy live music performances ranging from folk tunes played on acoustic guitars to classical concerts performed by renowned orchestras.
Key Takeaway: Vienna is an excellent destination for travelers exploring its rich history, culture, and architecture. Vienna offers something for everyone, with attractions ranging from imperial palaces to amusement parks, theaters, and pubs.
FAQs about Best Places to Visit in Austria
What is the most beautiful part of Austria?
The most beautiful part of Austria is the Austrian Alps. This beautiful mountain range stretches across the whole country and offers visitors a wide range of things to see and do. From skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and biking in summer, the Alps offer something for everyone. The area also has beautiful villages, lakes with clear water, thick forests, and lots of places to go on outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or want to take in the breathtaking scenery, Austria’s Alpine region has it all.
What is the number one tourist attraction in Austria?
The number one tourist attraction in Austria is the Schönbrunn Palace. Located in Vienna, it was once the imperial summer residence of the Habsburgs and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features 1,441 rooms with Baroque architecture, gardens, and parks open to visitors. The palace also houses an array of museums showcasing Austrian culture and history and a zoo home to over 700 species of animals. Visitors can explore the grounds on guided tours or take part in special events such as concerts or theatrical performances held throughout the year.
What is Austria famous for?
Austria is renowned for its stunning Alpine scenery, majestic mountains, and picturesque lakes. It is also home to some of the world’s most beautiful cities, such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck. Austria has a rich cultural heritage that includes classical music from composers like Mozart and Beethoven and art from painters like Gustav Klimt. The country is known for its delicious cuisine featuring dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel. Additionally, Austria offers an array of outdoor activities, including skiing in the winter months and hiking in the summertime. Finally, Austria boasts a variety of luxury spas, allowing visitors to relax after exploring this wonderful country.
What is the best month to visit Austria?
The best time to visit Austria is in May, June, and September. These months offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds than the peak summer season.
In May, Vienna’s parks are full of beautiful wildflowers, and there are a lot of cultural events, like music festivals, to check out.
June brings warmer weather and outdoor activities like hiking or biking in the Austrian Alps.
September is ideal for wine tasting in some of Austria’s most famous vineyards while offering cooler temperatures that are perfect for sightseeing around cities like Salzburg and Graz.
Final Thoughts
Austria is an excellent destination for those looking to experience the best of Europe. From its breathtaking cities and towns like Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt, and Innsbruck to its smaller villages like Sankt Pölten, Linz, Bregenz, and Klagenfurt, there are plenty of places to explore in this captivating country.
With its history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, many people consider it one of the best places to visit in Central Europe.
So if you’re planning a memorable trip full of unique experiences, look no further than Austria – you won’t be disappointed!
Austria is an ideal destination for any traveler with its breathtaking alpine scenery, vibrant cities, and various cultural attractions.
From exploring Vienna’s imperial palaces and strolling through Salzburg’s old town to skiing down world-class slopes or hiking trails, there is something for every traveler in this beautiful country.
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