Things to Do in Austria

Austria, a country rich in culture, history, and stunning natural beauty, offers a plethora of experiences for travelers of all interests. From exploring charming medieval towns to skiing in the majestic Alps, here are some ideas to get your Austrian adventure started:

Immerse yourself in the Imperial City:

• Vienna: The vibrant capital of Austria, Vienna, is a treasure trove of Habsburg history and architectural gems. Explore the Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the imperial family, and wander through the opulent Hofburg Palace, once the seat of power. Take a stroll along the Ringstrasse, a grand boulevard lined with impressive buildings like the Vienna State Opera and the Museum of Fine Arts.

Discover the charm of Salzburg:

• Salzburg: Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its Baroque architecture and picturesque setting. Visit the Salzburg Cathedral, climb the Festung Hohensalzburg fortress for panoramic views, and stroll through the Getreidegasse, a charming medieval alleyway lined with shops and cafes. Don’t miss a performance at the Salzburg Festival, one of the world’s premier classical music festivals.

Explore the breathtaking scenery of the Alps:

• Hallstatt: Nestled amidst the Dachstein Alps, Hallstatt is a fairytale-like village with colorful houses lining a turquoise lake. Take a boat ride on the lake, visit the Hallstatt Salt Mine, and hike to the Dachstein Krippenstein for stunning mountain views.

Innsbruck: Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Innsbruck is a winter sports paradise and a charming city with a rich history. Visit the Hofkirche, a Gothic church with Emperor Maximilian I’s tomb, and take a ride on the Nordkettenbahn funicular for breathtaking views of the city and mountains. In winter, hit the slopes for skiing, snowboarding, or tobogganing.

Experience the Austrian Sound of Music:

• Salzburg and surrounding areas: Relive the magic of “The Sound of Music” by visiting filming locations in Salzburg and its surroundings. Hike up the Untersberg mountain like Maria and the Von Trapp children, sing along to the tunes at the Mirabell Gardens, or take a boat trip on Lake Wolfgangsee, where the gazebo wedding scene was filmed.

Indulge in Austrian Delicacies:

• Wiener Schnitzel: Thinly sliced veal cutlet breaded and fried to crispy perfection, Wiener Schnitzel is a must-try Austrian dish. Pair it with a side of potato salad or cranberries for a delicious meal.

Sachertorte: This rich chocolate cake with apricot jam filling and dark chocolate icing is a Viennese classic. Enjoy a slice at a traditional Viennese cafe for an authentic experience.

Apple Strudel: A flaky pastry filled with warm apples, cinnamon, and raisins, apple strudel is a popular Austrian dessert. Enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

• Coffee Culture: Austria has a vibrant coffee culture, with cafes serving everything from strong espressos to creamy cappuccinos. Take your time savoring a cup of coffee and people-watching in a traditional Viennese cafe.

This is just a taste of what Austria has to offer. With its friendly people, delicious food, and stunning scenery, Austria is sure to leave you with lasting memories. So pack your bags and get ready to explore this beautiful country!

We hope this helps you plan your Austrian adventure!