Austria is one of Europe’s most captivating destinations, offering an enchanting mix of imperial grandeur, Alpine beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Situated in the heart of Central Europe, this compact nation provides a remarkable array of experiences. Whether you’re interested in the musical legacy of Mozart’s birthplace, eager to navigate pristine ski slopes, or simply want to savor a slice of Sachertorte in a historic Viennese café, Austria promises unforgettable moments at every turn.

This guide goes beyond common tourist clichés to provide genuine insights and practical advice for experiencing the best of Austria. From efficiently navigating the public transport system to discovering hidden alpine villages often overlooked by tourists, you’ll find the essential information needed to create your ideal Austrian adventure.

Best Time to Visit

Christmas Markets: A Magical Winter Experience

From mid-November until Christmas, Austria turns into a winter wonderland with its renowned Christmas markets. While Vienna’s Christkindlmarkt at Rathausplatz is the highlight, equally charming markets can also be found in Salzburg, Innsbruck, and various smaller towns. Expect to pay €3-4 for a mug of steaming Glühwein (mulled wine), which comes in a decorative mug that you can either return or keep as a souvenir for an additional €3.

Seasonal Highlights

• Winter (December-March): The prime season for skiing, characterized by optimal snow conditions. Lift passes typically range from €45 to €60 per day, with substantial discounts available for multi-day passes. Tyrolean resorts experience their peak crowds in February during European school holidays, so it’s advisable to book accommodation at least three months in advance.
• Spring (April-May): An ideal time for exploring cities and hiking at lower elevations. The Alps burst into bloom with wildflowers, and tourist crowds are noticeably lighter. Many alpine roads and passes reopen in late April.
• Summer (June-August): This is the peak season for lake activities and mountain hiking. The Salzburg Festival, taking place from the last week of July through August, features world-class performances but also leads to higher accommodation prices. It’s recommended to book lakeside lodgings in Salzkammergut at least four months in advance.
• Autumn (September-October): An optimum time for wine lovers to visit regions like Wachau Valley and Styria during the harvest season. Forests display stunning autumn foliage, while temperatures remain pleasant for outdoor activities.

Major Cities and Attractions

Vienna: Imperial Grandeur

Vienna captivates visitors with its imperial architecture and rich artistic heritage. The Schönbrunn Palace (€26 for the Grand Tour, open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM in winter, with extended hours in summer) showcases Habsburg opulence through its 1,441 rooms. A Classic Pass, which combines access to the palace and various attractions, is available from April 1 to November 2, 2025, for approximately €40.

At the Hofburg Imperial Palace, a combined ticket for the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments costs €20 for adults and €12 for children aged 6 and older. Guided tour options are available for €25 (adults) and €17 (children). The Sisi Pass, which includes access to Schönbrunn, the Sisi Museum and Imperial Apartments, and the Vienna Furniture Museum, offers a 25% savings compared to purchasing individual tickets.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral dominates the city center with its distinctive tiled roof. Basic entry is free but limited to certain areas. For a panoramic city view, climb the 343 steps of the South Tower (€6.50 for adults, €3 for children, open daily from 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM) or take the elevator to the North Tower (€7 for adults, €3 for children; January-March: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM, April-December: 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM). Guided tours of the catacombs cost €7 for adults and €3 for children.

Vienna’s Essential Experiences:

1. Attend a classical concert at the Golden Hall of the Musikverein.
2. Experience a horse-drawn fiaker carriage ride through the historic center.
3. Visit the Spanish Riding School to witness the morning exercise of the Lipizzaner horses.
4. Explore the Naschmarkt’s 120+ food stalls and restaurants.
5. Relax at one of Vienna’s traditional coffeehouses while reading the newspaper.

Vienna’s café culture deserves special attention. Hotel Sacher serves the original Sachertorte (around €8 per slice), though locals often prefer Café Demel’s version. For a more authentic experience, visit Café Central or Café Sperl, where coffee specialties like Melange (similar to cappuccino) cost €4-5 and come with a glass of water.

The Prater amusement park features the historic Giant Ferris Wheel (Riesenrad), which dates back to 1897. A ride costs €13.50 and offers spectacular city views, especially at sunset.

Art enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the Kunsthistorisches Museum, which houses masterpieces by Bruegel, Vermeer, and Raphael. Admission is €18, and entry is free on the first Sunday of each month.

Salzburg: Mozart’s Birthplace

Salzburg’s UNESCO-listed Old Town perfectly blends medieval and baroque architecture. Mozart’s Birthplace on Getreidegasse (€12, open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM) displays the composer’s childhood instruments and family artifacts.

Towering above the city, Hohensalzburg Fortress (€12.90, including the funicular) stands as one of Europe’s largest intact medieval castles. Time your visit for the fortress concert series, which combines dinner with classical music performances for €58.

Mirabell Palace and Gardens provides free access to its meticulously manicured grounds, famous from “The Sound of Music.” Fans of the film can also take specialized tours (€45 for 4 hours) that explore filming locations throughout the region.

Salzburg has much more to offer than just Mozart and “The Sound of Music.” Discover the trendy Andräviertel district, known for its craft coffee shops and designer boutiques. Cross the Salzach River to find the emerging arts scene in the Nonntal area.

Innsbruck: Alpine Urban Center

Innsbruck seamlessly combines urban sophistication with alpine adventure. The city center features the renowned Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl), adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles. Visit the museum beneath it for €7.50 to learn more about Emperor Maximilian I’s legacy.

The Nordkette Cable Car system provides one of the most remarkable urban-to-alpine transitions in Europe. For €38 (round trip), you can travel from the city center to an elevation of 2,300 meters in under 30 minutes. Pro tip: The Innsbruck Card (€52 for 48 hours) includes this ride as well as entry to major attractions.

In winter, visitors can enjoy world-class skiing directly from the city via the Olympia SkiWorld network, which connects nine ski areas (day pass €43). The Bergisel Ski Jump, redesigned by architect Zaha Hadid, offers panoramic views for €10.

Graz: Creative Capital

Austria’s second-largest city often goes unnoticed by tourists, despite its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town. The Schlossberg hill at its center features the iconic Clock Tower (Uhrturm). You can take the glass elevator up for €2 or climb the 260 steps for free to enjoy the stunning panoramic view.

The Kunsthaus Graz (€10.50), affectionately known as the “Friendly Alien” by locals due to its blob-like architecture, showcases contemporary art exhibitions. Just across the River Mur, you’ll find the floating platform Murinsel, which transforms into a cozy café during summer evenings.

Schloss Eggenberg, located just outside the city center (tram #1, €2.70), combines Renaissance architecture with Baroque interiors (€12 entrance; guided tours are necessary for room access).

Linz: Where Technology Meets Art

Often overshadowed by Vienna and Salzburg, Linz is worth exploring for its innovative cultural scene. The Ars Electronica Center (€12, closed Mondays) delves into the intersection of art, technology, and society through interactive exhibits.

Mariendom, Austria’s largest cathedral, offers free entry and features impressive neo-Gothic architecture. You can climb the tower (€2) for spectacular views of the city.

The Hauptplatz (Main Square) serves as Linz’s vibrant center, surrounded by Baroque buildings and lively cafés. From here, take the Pöstlingbergbahn, one of the steepest adhesion railways in the world (€7 round trip), for panoramic city views and access to the pilgrimage church.

Natural Wonders

Alpine Regions

The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of Europe’s most breathtaking driving routes. Open from early May to late October, this 48-kilometer road features 36 hairpin turns, culminating at an elevation of 2,504 meters. Although the €38 toll may seem steep, it covers access to visitor centers and exhibitions. To avoid crowds of tour buses, plan to arrive before 9 am or after 3 pm.

The Schladming-Dachstein area offers year-round alpine experiences. The Dachstein Skywalk and Suspension Bridge (€15) provide stunning views from an elevation of 2,700 meters. The Dachstein Ice Cave (€28, combined with the cable car) showcases remarkable frozen formations.

At 380 meters, Krimml Waterfalls is the highest waterfall in Europe, cascading down in three dramatic tiers. An entrance fee of €5 grants access to well-maintained trails that bring you close enough to feel the refreshing mist. For the best experience without crowds, visit before 10 am.

Austria’s Lakes

Lake Achen (Achensee) in Tyrol boasts pristine waters surrounded by mountains. In summer, water temperatures can reach a refreshing 20°C, making it perfect for swimming or windsurfing (equipment rentals start at €20/hour). The Achensee boat cruise (€19.90) offers magnificent mountain views without the need for hiking.

Zell am See features a medieval town center alongside a crystal-clear alpine lake. The lake promenade provides an easy walking path with stunning reflections of the mountains. For €25, you can purchase a summer card that grants lake access and transportation discounts.

Green Lake (Grüner See) in Styria showcases a fascinating natural phenomenon: a park that turns into a lake as mountain snow melts in late spring. By June, the water can reach depths of 10 meters, offering exceptional clarity that attracts photographers and divers. Visit in May or June to witness this spectacular transformation, as the water begins to recede by July.

The Salzkammergut region encompasses 76 lakes between Upper Austria and Styria, with Lake Hallstatt, Lake Wolfgang, and Lake Traunsee among the most picturesque. The Salzkammergut Card (€75 for 7 days) provides access to beaches, boat rentals, and museums throughout the region.

Valleys and Wine Regions

The Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site along the Danube, features terraced vineyards, medieval villages, and riverside cycling paths. You can explore the 40-kilometer stretch between Melk and Krems by bicycle (rentals starting at €20/day), river cruise (€25 for a partial route), or car. Autumn is a particularly beautiful time to visit, with golden vineyards and wine harvest festivals.

Top Austrian Wine Varieties to Try:

1. Grüner Veltliner – Austria’s signature white grape, known for its notes of white pepper and citrus.
2. Blaufränkisch – A spicy red wine with cherry notes, primarily from Burgenland.
3. Zweigelt – The most widely planted red grape variety, notable for its cherry-forward flavors.
4. Riesling – Especially excellent when sourced from the terraced vineyards of Wachau.
5. Gelber Muskateller – An aromatic white wine featuring distinctive grape and floral notes.

Styria’s wine country provides a more laid-back alternative to Wachau. The South Styrian Wine Road (Südsteirische Weinstraße) meanders through rolling hills adorned with vineyards. Local wine taverns (Buschenschanken) offer regional specialties alongside their own wines at reasonable prices, with tasting flights starting from €12.

Burgenland, which borders Hungary, boasts a distinctly different landscape characterized by the shallow Lake Neusiedl, surrounded by reed beds and vineyards that produce exceptional sweet wines. The National Park Neusiedler See-Seewinkel is home to over 300 bird species and offers guided tours for €15.

Historic Castles and Abbeys

Hohenwerfen Castle, dramatically perched on a rocky outcrop just 40 minutes south of Salzburg, dates back to the 11th century. The entrance fee of €17 includes an audioguide and access to the impressive Birds of Prey show, featuring eagles and falcons in flight against stunning mountain backdrops.

Dürnstein’s ruined castle in the Wachau Valley is accessible for free via a 20-minute hike. It is historically significant as the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192, adding intrigue to the magnificent river views.

Ort Castle sits on a small island in Lake Traunsee, connected to the shore by a 123-meter wooden bridge. While the castle interior is occasionally open for events, the exterior and its tranquil surroundings are well worth a visit. The nearby lakeside promenade in Gmunden provides an excellent vantage point for photographs.

Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s largest and most stunning baroque complexes, overlooks the Danube River. The €14 admission fee grants access to its impressive library of 100,000 volumes, the ornate marble hall, and the beautiful church with spiral towers. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays outside of July and August, and consider combining your visit with an exploration of the Wachau Valley.

Bad Ischl’s Imperial Villa served as the summer residence for Emperor Franz Joseph for over 60 years. An €18 guided tour reveals the remarkably preserved imperial apartments where pivotal historical decisions were made, including the declaration that began World War I.

Hidden Gems Worth Visiting

Hallstatt became somewhat too popular after gaining fame on social media, but it remains a must-see destination. This picturesque lakeside village offers more than just Instagram-worthy moments; you can explore the world’s oldest salt mine (€34 including funicular) and the spectacular “Five Fingers” viewing platform, which extends over a 400-meter cliff (€18 including cable car). Consider staying overnight to enjoy the village without the influx of day-trippers—the morning light on the lake provides magical photo opportunities.

Bad Gastein, once an imperial spa town, boasts a distinctive vertical layout centered around a 200-meter waterfall that cascades through its heart. Belle Époque hotels sit alongside abandoned grand buildings, creating a captivating mix of faded elegance and contemporary wellness. The thermal waters, rich in natural radon, are believed to possess healing properties (spa entry from €22).

Since 2015, our website has specialized in individual planning of unique routes, taking into account personal preferences and desires.

Each of you will receive a unique PDF file from us, which contains everything you need: travel routes, car rentals, hotels, the best tourist attractions, attractions for kids and everything you need for a perfect vacation.

During the trip, we are available for you by phone via WhatsApp.

Our personal service provides information from A to Z, taking into account many small details that can become a decisive factor on the way from a wasted trip to an unforgettable vacation.

Our service will make your trip comfortable, save a lot of time on planning and preparation, and most importantly – will allow you to become freer and fully enjoy the pleasure of the trip.

Read more

Pertisau, located on Lake Achen, provides a serene retreat within the Karwendel Alpine Park, Austria’s oldest protected natural area. The car-free village center and lakefront promenade foster a tranquil atmosphere. Be sure to sample the locally produced stone pine schnapps (Zirbenwhisky) at the small distillery, where tastings cost €8.

Kitzbühel offers much more than its renowned skiing. In the off-season, this medieval town evolves into a hub for hiking and mountain biking. The Kitzbüheler Horn and Hahnenkamm mountains feature panoramic trails suited for all skill levels. In the town itself, vividly painted medieval buildings house upscale boutiques and traditional restaurants.

St. Wolfgang, located on Lake Wolfgang, enchants visitors with its pilgrimage church, which features an extraordinary carved altar dating back to 1481. The historic steam-powered cog railway to Schafberg mountain (€38 round trip) has been in operation since 1893 and provides some of Austria’s most breathtaking views across the Salzkammergut lake district.

Culinary Highlights

Austrian cuisine varies widely by region, reflecting both alpine traditions and the diverse influences of the historical Habsburg empire. Beyond the well-known Wiener Schnitzel (which should never be served with sauce, as this is considered sacrilegious by Austrians), each region offers its own distinctive specialties.

Must-Try Austrian Dishes:

1. Tafelspitz – Boiled beef in broth accompanied by apple-horseradish sauce
2. Käsespätzle – Small egg dumplings topped with mountain cheese and crispy onions
3. Kaiserschmarrn – Shredded pancake served with fruit compote or applesauce
4. Tiroler Gröstl – Pan-fried potatoes mixed with meat and onions, topped with a fried egg
5. Salzburger Nockerl – A sweet soufflé dessert that represents the mountains surrounding Salzburg

In Styria, you can find crispy fried chicken (Backhendl) and dishes featuring pumpkin seed oil, such as pumpkin seed pesto. The Käsespätzle in the alpine regions consist of small dumplings smothered in mountain cheese and crispy onions—perfect for refueling after a day of hiking.

Austrian pastries and desserts also warrant special attention. Beyond apple strudel, try Kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake with fruit compote), Salzburger Nockerl (soufflé), or Topfenstrudel (sweet quark cheese strudel). Excellent bakeries can be found in even the smallest villages, with pastry prices typically ranging from €2-4.

Wine enthusiasts should delve into Austria’s unique varieties, such as Grüner Veltliner and Blaufränkisch. Wine taverns (Heurigen) provide a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the current year’s wines, often accompanied by simple food buffets. For a non-alcoholic refreshment, try Almdudler, a fizzy herbal lemonade that pairs wonderfully with hiking breaks.

Active Pursuits

Austria’s ski resorts cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. The SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental features 280 kilometers of slopes, with day passes starting at €56. Sölden and Ischgl offer high-altitude skiing along with vibrant après-ski scenes, while Kitzbühel combines challenging terrain with historical charm.

Top Hiking Trails for Different Levels:

1. Easy: Salzkammergut BergeSeen Trail – Gentle lakeside paths with minimal elevation.
2. Moderate: Alpe-Adria-Trail (Stages in Carinthia) – Scenic cross-border routes with manageable daily distances.
3. Challenging: Stubai High Trail – An alpine traverse that requires good fitness and some technical skills.
4. Expert: Venediger High Alpine Trail – A multi-day trek through high passes and glacial terrain.

Hiking opportunities abound throughout Austria, with well-marked trails suitable for every ability level. The Eagle Walk in Tyrol stretches 413 kilometers across the Alps, divided into 33 stages. For those seeking less strenuous hikes, the trails around Wolfgangsee and Hallstätter See offer spectacular lake views with moderate effort.

Austria’s cycling infrastructure is excellent, particularly along its rivers. The Danube Cycle Path extends 365 kilometers within Austria (part of a longer international route), primarily on dedicated paths away from traffic. Rental bikes are widely available (€25-30 daily), and excellent train connections facilitate one-way journeys.

After active pursuits, thermal spas offer relaxation. The Aqua Dome in Längenfeld (€35 for 4 hours) features unique outdoor pools with mountain views, while Bad Ischl’s Salzkammergut Therme (€22) provides multiple sauna options. It’s important to note that Austrian sauna culture typically involves nudity—areas suitable for swimwear are specifically marked.

Planning Your Journey

Venture beyond the Vienna-Salzburg-Hallstatt tourist triangle to experience Austria’s authentic character. Consider basing yourself in regional centers like Bregenz (for Vorarlberg), Lienz (for East Tyrol), or Klagenfurt (for Carinthia) to explore less-visited regions.

For cost-effective transportation, check out the Einfach-Raus-Ticket (€39-69), which allows unlimited train travel for one day for up to five people. The Österreich Card (€395 for 1 year) pays for itself if you plan to take numerous train journeys within Austria.

The Semmering Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site completed in 1854, connects Vienna with Styria, offering breathtaking views of mountain landscapes. Regular passenger service is priced like any standard train ticket, making it one of the most affordable UNESCO experiences in the world.

Austrian culture highly values privacy and personal space. Consequently, service in restaurants may seem less attentive compared to North America, reflecting a preference for uninterrupted dining. When tipping, it’s customary to round up the bill or add 5-10%. You can do this by informing the server of the total amount you wish to pay when settling the bill.

It’s also important to note that many shops and supermarkets in Austria close on Sundays, with only train stations and airports remaining open. Make sure to plan accordingly, especially if you’re self-catering.

Whether you’re looking for cultural refinement, outdoor adventures, or simply a perfect slice of cake with stunning alpine views, Austria offers unforgettable experiences that linger long after your return home. Beyond the well-trodden tourist paths lies a country rich in diversity and authenticity, waiting for travelers willing to explore a little deeper.

What we propose

Emma Heidi

Itinerary Expert

Let us create the perfect itinerary for you!

Start your journey to the place you have always dreamed of visiting by calling us. We will plan a customized itinerary for you, taking into account all your wishes, dreams and needs.

Contact us today, and before you know it, travel experts will create the perfect itinerary for you, including all the must-haves on your trip, with a meticulous level of planning.

Our service will save you a lot of time planning the route before the trip, ensuring peace and quiet during the trip.

Exactly tailored to your needs and desires, as well as the travel style you are looking for.

Our experts have in-depth knowledge and experience to prepare the perfect itinerary that you will not find in any ordinary travel guide.

We will provide you with all the information: from car rental to public transportation, hotels, restaurants, attractions and main places. This will make your trip perfect.

Our team is available for you during the trip if you have any questions. Every day of the trip will be perfect.

Our services cost only $220.

Click on the link to start your perfect vacation right now.

Contact us via email

Start WhatsApp
Book a chat with an expert.

How it works

• You are welcome
to contact us
• We discuss
your trip
• You fill out a special form
• We create
your itinerary
• You get it with all useful tips
• We are in touch with
you all the time