Discover
Austria
Imperial palaces, classical music heritage, and stunning Tyrolean landscapes.
Top Destinations
Explore our curated selection of landmarks and cities you must visit.
Schönbrunn Palace
Schönbrunn Palace is a magnificent baroque complex that served as the primary summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. This 1,441-room palace is a masterpiece of imperial architecture, featuring stunning rococo state rooms and expansive, manicured gardens. Visitors are transported to the opulent world of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph, surrounded by historical grandeur. The meticulously maintained grounds also house the world's oldest zoo, a labyrinth, and the breathtaking Gloriette.
Best Time
April to October for the gardens, or December for the magical Christmas market.
Insider Tip
Book a private, after-hours tour...
Hofburg Palace
Located in the heart of Vienna, the Hofburg Palace is the former principal imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty. This sprawling complex is a fascinating blend of architectural styles, reflecting centuries of continuous expansion and royal influence. Today, it serves as the official residence and workplace of the President of Austria, while also housing numerous museums, including the famous Sisi Museum. The palace grounds are a testament to the enduring legacy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire.
Best Time
Year-round, though weekday mornings are best to avoid the largest crowds.
Insider Tip
Attend a morning exercise session...
Hallstatt
Hallstatt is a picturesque, fairy-tale village nestled between the towering Dachstein mountains and a pristine alpine lake. Known for its charming 16th-century Alpine houses and narrow cobblestone alleys, it is often considered one of the most beautiful lakeside villages in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a rich history tied to ancient salt mining, dating back thousands of years. The dramatic natural setting creates a breathtaking backdrop that has captivated travelers and artists for centuries.
Best Time
September to October for mild weather and beautiful autumn foliage, avoiding the summer peak.
Insider Tip
Stay overnight in the village...
Salzburg Altstadt (Old Town)
The historic center of Salzburg, renowned as the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Dominated by the imposing Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets, grand squares, and stunning churches. The city's silhouette, with its elegant spires and domes, is framed perfectly by the surrounding alpine landscape. It remains a vibrant cultural hub, deeply connected to its musical heritage and historical roots.
Best Time
Late July and August for the Salzburg Festival, or December for the enchanting Christkindlmarkt.
Insider Tip
Visit the St. Peter's Stiftskulinarium,...
Belvedere Palace
The Belvedere is a stunning historic building complex consisting of two Baroque palaces, the Upper and Lower Belvedere, set in a spectacular park. Originally built as a summer residence for Prince Eugene of Savoy, it now houses one of Austria's most valuable art collections. The exquisite gardens, featuring cascading fountains, baroque sculptures, and wrought-iron gates, perfectly complement the architectural grandeur. The Upper Belvedere is particularly famous for its impressive facade and opulent marble hall.
Best Time
May through September when the intricate gardens are in full bloom.
Insider Tip
Purchase a combined ticket to...
Grossglockner High Alpine Road
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is Austria's highest surfaced mountain pass, offering a spectacular 48-kilometer drive through the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. The route winds through 36 hairpin bends, ascending to an elevation of 2,504 meters and providing sweeping views of flowering alpine meadows, rocky cliffs, and pristine glaciers. It culminates at the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe visitor center, directly facing Austria's highest peak, the Grossglockner. This engineering marvel seamlessly blends into the dramatic high-alpine environment.
Best Time
Open from early May to late October; early autumn offers crystal-clear skies and crisp air.
Insider Tip
Start your drive at sunrise...
Innsbruck (Golden Roof)
Innsbruck is a captivating alpine city that famously hosted the Winter Olympics, blending a rich imperial history with stunning mountain scenery. Its most famous landmark is the Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), an ornate alcove balcony covered with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles. Built by Emperor Maximilian I in the early 16th century, it served as a royal box for watching tournaments in the square below. The city's charming medieval Old Town is dramatically framed by the towering Nordkette mountain range.
Best Time
December for world-class winter sports and festive markets, or summer for alpine hiking.
Insider Tip
Take the futuristic Hungerburgbahn funicular,...
Melk Abbey
Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube River, Melk Abbey is one of the world's most famous monastic sites. This sprawling Baroque masterpiece, bathed in distinctive yellow and white hues, has been a spiritual and cultural center since the 11th century. The abbey's interior features a breathtaking church with ceiling frescoes by Johann Michael Rottmayr and a stunningly ornate library containing countless medieval manuscripts. Its meticulously landscaped park and garden pavilion add to the serene, majestic atmosphere.
Best Time
May to September, particularly in the morning to enjoy the soft light on the abbey's facade.
Insider Tip
Combine your visit with a...
St. Stephen's Cathedral
St. Stephen's Cathedral (Stephansdom) is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Vienna and the iconic symbol of the city. Known for its striking multi-colored tile roof featuring the double-headed eagle of the Habsburg empire, this Gothic masterpiece dominates the Viennese skyline. The interior is equally impressive, with soaring stone pillars, intricate altars, and the hauntingly beautiful catacombs beneath. The towering South Tower, affectionately called 'Steffl', offers those willing to climb its 343 steps an incredible view of the capital.
Best Time
Any time of year, but an evening classical music concert inside the cathedral is highly recommended.
Insider Tip
Skip the climb of the...
Zell am See
Zell am See is a breathtaking alpine resort town situated on the shores of Lake Zell, surrounded by the majestic Hohe Tauern mountains. The town seamlessly blends traditional Austrian charm with modern luxury, featuring a traffic-free medieval center filled with high-end boutiques and cozy cafes. In winter, it is a premier skiing destination, while summer transforms the region into a paradise for hiking, golfing, and water sports. The crystal-clear, drinkable water of the lake reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks perfectly.
Best Time
December to March for skiing, or July to August for swimming and water sports on Lake Zell.
Insider Tip
Take an evening stroll along...
Wachau Valley
The Wachau Valley is a picturesque stretch of the Danube River, renowned for its rolling hills, terraced vineyards, and historic ruins. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage landscape, it spans between the towns of Melk and Krems, featuring charming medieval villages like Dürnstein. The region is internationally celebrated for producing some of Austria's finest white wines, particularly Riesling and Grüner Veltliner. Ancient castles and abbeys punctuate the lush, green scenery, creating a deeply romantic atmosphere.
Best Time
September to October for the grape harvest and vibrant autumn colors.
Insider Tip
Rent an e-bike to comfortably...
Krimml Waterfalls
The Krimml Waterfalls are the highest waterfalls in Austria, cascading down a total of 380 meters across three dramatic tiers. Located in the pristine Hohe Tauern National Park, the falls generate a powerful roar and a refreshing mist that coats the surrounding pine forests. A well-maintained hiking trail allows visitors to walk alongside the rushing water, offering spectacular viewpoints at various elevations. The site is a magnificent display of nature's raw power and pristine alpine beauty.
Best Time
Late spring (May to June) when the glacial meltwater is at its peak, making the falls incredibly powerful.
Insider Tip
Hike up to the highest...
Eisriesenwelt (Ice Cave)
Eisriesenwelt, literally translating to 'World of the Ice Giants', is the largest limestone ice cave system on the planet, stretching over 42 kilometers. Located high within the Hochkogel mountain, visitors must take a cable car and a short alpine hike just to reach the monumental entrance. Inside, guided tours lead visitors through a frozen wonderland of massive, naturally formed ice sculptures, frozen waterfalls, and expansive icy caverns. The caves are completely unlit, illuminated only by the magnesium lamps provided to visitors, adding to the mysterious ambiance.
Best Time
Open from May to October; visit on a hot summer day to experience the dramatic contrast of the freezing cave.
Insider Tip
Dress warmly with sturdy footwear,...
Kitzbühel
Kitzbühel is an internationally renowned alpine town that perfectly blends medieval charm with ultra-chic luxury. Famous for hosting the Hahnenkamm, the most perilous downhill ski race in the World Cup circuit, it is a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts. The picturesque town center is defined by brightly painted buildings, upscale boutiques, and an array of sophisticated dining options. Surrounded by the majestic Wilder Kaiser mountains, it remains a year-round playground for the global elite.
Best Time
January for the thrilling Hahnenkamm race, or late summer for golfing and hiking.
Insider Tip
Book a table at the...
Schloss Hellbrunn
Schloss Hellbrunn is an early Baroque villa built in the 17th century as a day residence for the Prince-Archbishop of Salzburg, Markus Sittikus. The palace is most famous for its unique 'trick fountains' (Wasserspiele), a series of hidden water jets designed to surprise and entertain the Archbishop's guests. The extensive grounds feature beautifully manicured gardens, mystical grottos, and the charming mechanical theater showcasing hundreds of wooden figures. It is also home to the famous gazebo from 'The Sound of Music'.
Best Time
Summer is essential to fully enjoy the cooling effect of the outdoor trick fountains.
Insider Tip
Take the evening tour of...
Hohensalzburg Fortress
Dominating the Salzburg skyline from atop the Festungsberg hill, Hohensalzburg Fortress is one of the largest and best-preserved medieval castles in Europe. Constructed in 1077, this formidable stronghold has never been breached and served as a symbol of the Prince-Archbishops' power and authority. The fortress features lavishly decorated state rooms, including the Golden Hall with its spectacular Gothic wood carvings. Its strategic elevation provides unparalleled 360-degree views of the baroque city below and the Alps beyond.
Best Time
Late afternoon for stunning sunset views over the city, followed by an evening classical concert.
Insider Tip
Take the quick Festungsbahn funicular...
Graz Old Town
The Old Town of Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is a stunning UNESCO World Heritage site known for its exceptionally well-preserved historical center. It boasts a harmonious blend of architectural styles, from Gothic and Renaissance to Baroque and contemporary, reflecting its position at the cultural crossroads of Central Europe. The city's Mediterranean flair is evident in its red-tiled roofs, hidden courtyards, and vibrant culinary scene. The iconic Uhrturm (Clock Tower) stands watch over the city from the lush Schlossberg hill.
Best Time
May to September to enjoy the vibrant outdoor cafe culture and mild weather.
Insider Tip
Take the glass elevator inside...
Swarovski Crystal Worlds
Swarovski Crystal Worlds (Kristallwelten) is a surreal and dazzling art installation located at the original site of the Swarovski company. Created by multimedia artist André Heller, the attraction is guarded by a massive, grass-covered 'Giant' with a waterfall cascading from its mouth. Inside the Giant lies the 'Chambers of Wonder', a series of mesmerizing rooms designed by internationally acclaimed artists featuring sparkling crystal displays. The expansive outdoor garden includes a stunning Crystal Cloud made of 800,000 hand-mounted crystals floating above a black mirror pool.
Best Time
Visit on a sunny day to see the outdoor Crystal Cloud sparkling brilliantly, or during the winter for the light festival.
Insider Tip
Don't miss the 'Chandelier of...
Wolfgangsee
Wolfgangsee is one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in the Salzkammergut resort region, known for its deep blue, incredibly clear waters. The lake is surrounded by charming, historic resort towns such as St. Gilgen, Strobl, and St. Wolfgang, each offering picturesque alpine architecture and lakeside promenades. The towering Schafberg mountain provides a dramatic backdrop, accessible via a historic, steam-powered cog railway. The area has long been a favored retreat for artists, royalty, and those seeking serene natural beauty.
Best Time
June to September for swimming and boating, or late November for the incredibly romantic Wolfgangseer Advent market.
Insider Tip
Take the historic paddle steamer...
Dachstein Salzkammergut
The Dachstein massif is a spectacular alpine landscape of towering limestone peaks, sprawling glaciers, and deep cave systems, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. It offers some of the most dramatic high-altitude experiences in Austria, including the 'Five Fingers' viewing platform, which extends over a sheer 400-meter drop. The area is also home to the breathtaking Dachstein Ice Cave and the immense Mammoth Cave. In winter, it is a haven for off-piste skiing and snowshoeing, while summer invites rigorous alpine hiking and climbing.
Best Time
Summer for hiking and exploring the caves; winter for snowshoeing and taking in the snow-covered panoramic views.
Insider Tip
For the ultimate thrill, walk...
Travel Tips for Austria
- 1.
Learn to greet with 'Grüß Gott'
- 2.
Book opera tickets in advance
- 3.
Try Wiener Schnitzel