Austria - Incredible Experiences

Set in central Europe, Austria conjures up images of the mighty Matterhorn mountain and glamourous Alpine ski resorts surrounded by pristine pistes and aquamarine lakes. However, the country’s breathtaking nature only tells a small part of the story. With residents like Mozart, Freud, and other legendary figures playing an important role in developing the world we know today, the country is also blessed with a rich heritage. From the quaint, cobbled streets of timeless Innsbruck with its famous Golden Roof, to the enthralling Vienna Staatsoper, one of the most famous opera and ballet venues in the world, the historical choices are as diverse as they are seductive. The longstanding 'Kaffeehaus kultur' and the country’s delectable strudels, schnitzels and beer are enough reason to visit, alone. Chic, world-class cities are packed with spectacular modern and contemporary art galleries and a multitude of entertainment opportunities.

Austria is an environmentally responsible land of mountains and impressive architecture with an unrivalled musical tradition that even ‘The Sound of Music’ couldn’t sully. Vienna is the capital, hub of the country’s musical life and littered with beautiful buildings, Music, art and architecture reach baroque perfection in Salzburg, Mozart’s birthplace. Innsbruck’s snow capped peaks frame its fascinating historic buildings. The rhythm of daily life throughout Austria has a musical beat and music festivals fill its calendar

Best time to visit Austria is year round

Highlights

Enjoying the wine in a Heurigen or an evening of high culture in the Staatsoper
Wandering your way through Vienna’s Christkinlmarkt (Christmas markets)
Strolling through Salzburg – one perfect view after another
Sipping coffee in a Kaffeehaus
Gawking at the oddities of the Josephinum, Vienna’s medical history museum
Marvelling at the unfolding scenic magnificence of the Grossglockner Road
Hobnobbing with jetsetter skiers in upmarket Lech
Gorging at the Giant Chocolate Festival of Bludenz

Eat

Wiener schnitzel with knödel (dumplings) followed by Mohr im Hemd for dessert (chocolate pudding with whipped cream and chocolate sauce)

Drink

Sturm (new wine) in autumn, and Glühwein (hot, spiced mulled wine) at Christmas

Experiences in Innsbruck

Cable car in Innsbruck
Swarovski Crystal Worlds

Experiences in Salzburg

The traces of Mozart in Salzburg tour
Sound of Music Tour
Lakes and mountains around Salzburg
Eagles Nest
Panorama City Tour Salzburg
Bavarian mountains
Berchtesgaden
Chiemsee Lake tour
Classical Salzburg
Bavarian Mountains and Salt Mines tour
City and Country hightlights Salzburg
Salzkammergut tour
Bavarian Royal Castles
Hallstatt
Bad Ischl

Experiences in Vienna

Historical city tour and Schonbrun Palace
Romantic Danube Valley
Hop on Hop off Vienna with walking tour
Vienna woods
Budapest full day tour from Vienna
Haus des Meeres Wildlife, zoo and aquarium
Schoenbrunn Palace
Timeless tunes of Mozart and Strauss by the Vienna Residence Orchestra
Meyerling tour
Danube and Wachau Valley tour
Strauss and Mozart concert at Kursalon Palace
Vienna History show
Dinner and concert in Schonbrunn Palace

An evening at Schonbrunn – palace visit and concert

Mammals and Melodies
Madam Tussauds Museum
Leopold and Kunsthistorische museums
Treasures of the Habsburgs

Lower Austria

Lower Austria is named for its position on the lower section of the Danube, but it is Austria’s northeasternmost state, as well as its largest. It is considered the country’s ‘Cradle of History’ and is liberally dotted with ancient forts, palaces and churches. Architectural highlights include Klosterneuburg Abbey, dating to 1114 and featuring an opulent frescoed interior, and the hilltop Melk Abbey, with its Baroque restorations. Visitors can enjoy hiking and natural beauty in the ‘Waldviertel’ (forest area), savour fine wines in the Weinviertel’ (wine area), or go biking along the Danube River. The spa resort of Baden offers the chance to relax and unwind, while winter brings excellent skiing opportunities in the Alps.

Upper Austria

Upper Austria is located in the country’s far north, on the border with both the Czech Republic and Germany. The capital, Linz, was once a run-down industrial centre, but urban revival in recent decades has transformed it into a modern and cosmopolitan city. Don’t miss a visit to the ARS Electronica Centre, a museum devoted to all things digital. Other regional highlights include Gmunden, a medieval village on the shores of Lake Traunsee, with its medieval architecture, the twin lakes and woodlands of Gosau, and the walled town of Freistadt. For unadulterated nature, head to the National Park Kalkalpen, where you can wander along pristine Alpine hiking trails and encounter diverse plant and animal life.

Vienna

Resting over the banks of the Danube River in northeastern Austria, Vienna, the country’s capital city, is famous for its classical music heritage and reflects an enticing blend of old and new. The historical centre is skyscraper-free and dotted with immaculate, charming little parks. It is also pedestrian friendly and extremely compact, which is convenient as this area contains the bulk of the city’s major tourist highlights. Chief among these are the famous Burgtheater and Opera House and an array of opulent baroque palaces lining the warren of narrow, medieval alleyways which wind their way around the magnificent St Stephen’s Cathedral. Add to this a slew of grand coffee houses and a rich history of classical music (residents included Mozart and Beethoven) and it becomes difficult to imagine a more livable city than the sophisticated metropolis of Vienna.

Hallstatt

Tucked away on the Northern foot of the majestic Dachstein Mountain Range, overlooking the Hallstätter See, the picturesque village of Hallstatt is one of Austria’s most charming destinations. In the heart of the Alpine UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hallstatt is renowned for its scenic views, easily accessible beaches and glorious mountain scenery. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, diving and boating on the traditional Salzkammergut flat-bottomed boats. Must-see attractions include the historic Market Square, the 15th-century Roman Catholic Ascension of Our Lady Church and Halstatt’s 18th-century Evangelical Church with its impressive spire. Don’t miss daily tours to the 250-year-old salt caves and a ferry ride across the lake to the magnificent Dachstein ice caves.

Linz

Resting on the banks of the beautiful Danube River, the city of Linz lies midway between the cities of Salzburg and Vienna in northern Austria. This attractive historic city is famous for its magnificent Baroque architecture, including the Old Town Hall (Altes Rathaus) and the old cathedral, as well as Hauptplatz, the old town’s main square. Visitors can look forward to exploring the Lentos Kunstmuseum, featuring an impressive modern art collection, and the Ars Electronica Centre, displaying ideas around society, technology and life in the future. Other attractions include the historical Schlossmuseum; the rococo church, Minoritenkirche; and the new cathedral (Linzer Mariendom), providing spectacular views from the spire. Don’t miss the chance to take a tram ride to Postlingberg, a towering hill with panoramic views, a pilgrimage basilica and a miniature Grotto Railway.

Kitzbuhel

Situated approximately 100 kilometres east of Austria’s capital, Innsbruck, Kitzbuhel is a small medieval town in the heart of the Kitzbuhel Alps. This internationally renowned ski resort town boasts about 170 kilometres of pristine ski slopes served by over fifty modern gondolas and lifts, as well as snowboarding fun parks, 120 kilometres of cross country ski trails and numerous ski schools. Other outdoor opportunities include plentiful hiking trails, four pristine golf courses, several beautiful bathing lakes, and extensive cycling and mountain bike trails. Visitors seeking more leisurely activities will enjoy the range of upscale shops and cafes lining the streets of the town’s medieval centre. Make sure to visit the Museum Kitzbuhel, focused on the town’s history; and the Alpine Flower Garden Kitzbuheler Horn via the picturesque Kitzbuheler Horn panoramic road.

Lech

The village of Lech is positioned on the banks of the Lech River in the mountainous Bludenz district in the Austrian state of Vorarlberg. Lech has its origins as a mountain farming village but now boasts an exclusive, premier ski resort, world class hotels, as well as numerous fine dining restaurants. Careful planning has allowed this isolated village to maintain its rural charm.

Badgastein

Clinging to the high, wooded cliffs of the High Tauern Mountains, just south of Salzburg, Bad Gastein offers its visitors the ultimate skiing holiday as well as a wealth of attractions to keep all kinds of travellers entertained. Decorated by belle-epoque villas and hotels, the late-Gothic Nikolauskirche, and looking over a magnificently photogenic valley and over to mighty peaks, this picturesque town provides a wonderland of opportunity for taking pictures. With one ski pass, visitors can access 760 kilometres of pristine pistes (365 pistes), use 270 lifts, and enjoy not only skiing but also excellent snowboarding, hiking, spa relaxation in renowned healing hot springs. Make sure to visit the 341 metre-high Gasteiner Wasserfall, which tumbles into jaw-dropping turquoise pools which inspired Schubert, Klimt, and others. Other highlights include the fascinating Gasteiner Museum and the curative waters of the Thermalwasser Trinkbrunnen (drinking fountain).

Klagenfurt

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Worthersee near Austria’s southern border, Klagenfurt is the capital city of the province of Carinthia; and provides an energetic student town with an appealing Mediterranean climate. While scattered with an abundance of lovingly restored Renaissance architecture, the city also offers some more contemporary sights such as the Museum of Modern Art and the charming Minimundus, a sculpture park displaying over 150 of the world’s most famous architectural sights – built at a scale of 1:25. While most tourists use Klagenfurt as a base for exploring the nearby villages lining beautiful Lake Worthersee, the town itself boasts plenty of good restaurants and a lively nightlife – especially in the summer, when holidaymakers tend to flock to the area.

Ischgl

Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks at the height of over 1377 metres in the wondrous Paznaun Valley in the Austrian state of Tyrol sits the acclaimed ski village of Ischgl. Surrounded by awe-inspiring snow-capped mountains in the wintertime to lush green meadows in the summer, this iconic village has it all. Not only has Ischgl managed to retain its traditional charm, but it is home to boutique stores, fine-dining restaurants, and glamorous bars and clubs. Dubbed the ‘Ibiza of the Alps’ Ischgl is home to a lively nightlife, as well as being host to the annual Top of the Mountain Concert. With reliable snow conditions from November until the beginning of May in the Silvretta Arena, this breathtakingly beautiful destination offers white-powered- playground for skiers and snowboarders of all levels to enjoy.

Saalbach

Set in west-central Austria, southwest of Saltzburg, Saalbach-Hinterglemm is an enthralling ski town with access to the Reiterkogel, Kohlmais and Schattberg mountains. The town boasts 70 cableways, more than 60 cosy ski huts, floodlit slopes, and 140 kilometres of blue, 112 kilometres of red, and 18 kilometres of black slopes. A fantastic selection of ski resort villages lie at the foot of the slopes, and there are plenty of party spots as well as many excellent family-friendly apres-ski venues. By merging with the Tyrolean ski resort Fieberbrunn, a mecca for freeriding has been created. Traffic-free and filled with traditional buildings and a picturesque domed church, the friendly town exudes a warm holiday atmosphere.

Wachau Valley

Formed by the picturesque Danube River, the extraordinarily scenic Wachau Valley is located in Lower Austria, midway between the Austrian towns of Krems and Melk. Known for its beautiful rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, this 40-kilometre-long valley is a prominent tourist destination with many fortresses, castles, monasteries, ruins and baroque architecture to discover. History buffs should not miss the quaint town of Durnstein, the place where King Richard the Lion-Heart of England was held captive. Other not-to-be-missed activities include exploring the recently restored Melk Abbey; visiting Forum Frohner, Krem’s impressive contemporary white cube gallery space; or simply soaking up the exquisite landscape by meandering down the river by bike, bus, or boat.

Salzburg

Set near the German border, the famous city of Salzburg is one of the best-preserved city centres in Europe. Its winding cobblestone streets offer a treasure trove of Medieval and Baroque buildings, palaces, concert halls, and monasteries – all set against a picturesque backdrop of the magnificent snow-capped Alps. Visit the house where Mozart was born, and enjoy a packed lineup of operas, concerts and ballets in breathtaking historic halls and venues. The internationally renowned Salzburg Festival, which takes place every summer, provides the ultimate way to enjoy this scene. Fans of the Sound of Music can retrace the characters’ steps backed by stunning scenes and vistas. Make sure to stroll along the beautiful Salzach River, climb up to the spectacular Hohensalzburg fortress, and try the famous, delicious beer brewed at the Augustiner Braustubl, a monastery-run brewery operating since 1621.

St Anton am Arlberg

Extending along the northern bank of the Rosanna River, at the foot of the immense Valluga Mountain, St Anton am Arlberg is a well-known Austrian village and ski resort in the Tyrolean Alps. The resort is considered the cradle of alpine skiing, as it was here that downhill skiing was invented. This fact, combined with the exceptionally scenic surrounds, excellent condition of the slopes and reliable snow, makes it a dream destination for skiers and snowboarders. Other popular activities on offer include mountaineering, snowshoe hiking, tobogganing and horse sleigh riding. The village itself features numerous sightseeing spots, a top-notch sports centre and the Museum St Anton am Arlberg, exhibiting information on the local history in a traditional ski chalet.

Zell am See

Situated in the north of Austria, within an hour’s drive of Salzburg, Zell am See is an inviting base from which to explore the extraordinarily scenic natural surrounds. Occupying a peninsula jutting into Lake Zell, the town has an enviable location where activities such as skiing, snowboarding and alpine flights can be enjoyed during winter. Summer brings just as much fun with numerous water sport options on offer and over 200 kilometres of cross-country trails in and around the nearby mountains. A popular highlight is the cable car ride up to Schmittenhohe, the local mountain offering spectacular panoramic views and, if time allows, glacier skiing up the nearby Kaprun. More leisurely options include relaxing at open-air pools, lakeside beaches and promenades, enjoying some fine shopping opportunities and several other apres ski activities.

Mayrhofen

Resting in the alluring Zillertal Valley in Austria’s westernmost province of Tyrol, Mayrhofen is a pristine Alpine town and one of the country’s premier ski resort destinations. While it is a lovely place to visit in the summer – when hiking trails and birdlife are spectacular- Mayrhofen comes alive when it snows, attracting thousands of visitors to the powdery slopes of the rugged Zillertal Valley. Catering for families as well as serious winter sports enthusiasts, Mayrhofen boasts two ski lifts (servicing the Ahorn and Penken peaks), as well as downward runs offering experiences ranging from serene to heart-racing. The superior apres-ski (social activities that follow after a day’s skiing) offered at Mayrhofen are extraordinary and are another reason for its enduring popularity.

Kaprun

The small, snowy town of Kaprun is located in the mountainous region of Austria’s Salzburg state, at the foot of the Kitzsteinhorn glacier. Together with the skiing district of Zell am See, Kaprun is home to more than 130 kilometres of skiing terrain, providing ideal conditions for a variety of outdoor activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and a wealth of others. The modern and extensive Glacier Aerial Tramway, an aerial lift in three sections, takes visitors to the summit of Mt Kitzsteinhorn, providing restaurant stops along the way as well as spectacular vistas of the surrounding winter wonderland. Don’t miss the chance to visit Kaprun Castle, a beautifully-restored medieval landmark, which hosts a number of incredible live music events throughout the year.

Lake Wolfgang

Lying mostly within the Austrian state of Salzburg, Lake Wolfgang is one of the best-known lakes in the Salzkammergut resort region. This spectacularly beautiful and tranquil lake is an ideal destination for day trips from Salzburg or leisurely lakeside-holidays, with its excellent opportunities for swimming, water sports and hiking. On the shores of Lake Wolfgang are three charming little municipalities, St Gilgen, Strobl and St Wolfgang. Not-to-be-missed activities include: catching a ride on the St Gilgen Zwölferhorn cable car, which provides astounding views of the lake; experiencing Austria’s steepest ascent up the Schafberg Mountain in the classic Schafberg cog railway, (featured in the classic 1965 film, The Sound of Music); and visiting the exquisite Pilgrimage Church in St Wolfgang, which overlooks the lake and houses an impressively carved winged altarpiece.

Schladming

Schladming is located in the northern Austrian state of Styria. This former mining town has been converted into a premier winter sports destination, with a number of high-quality resorts in the surrounding area, as well as buzzing cafes and restaurants and some interesting cultural sights. The local peak is known as Planai, which consists of varied courses suitable for beginners as well as experienced skiers – though if you are spending some time in the area, the nearby resorts of Hochwurzen and Reiteralm offer even more options. Other key activities include the spectacular hiking trail of Wilde Wasser, which features suspension bridges, flowing rapids and frozen waterfalls, and the Nickelmuseum, which provides an interesting glimpse into the history of mining in Schladming.

Werfen

Famously known for its magnificent ice cave, soaring limestone turrets, and formidable medieval fortress, Werfen is a grand market town that rests on the banks of the serene Salzach River in the Austrian state of Salzburg. Alongside the quaint stores and delightful eateries, Werfen is the host to fabled attractions. Travellers can visit the majestic Hohenwerfen Castle, a medieval fortress that is surrounded by the lush mountainous terrain or venture through the world-renowned Eisriesenwelt Cave, a glittering ice empire that burrows deep into the heart of the mountains. Film fanatics and nature lovers alike will be thrilled as they embark on a magically scenic journey along the iconic Sound of Music film trail.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol state in Austria, lies in the famous Alps. With its relatively mild Alpine climate and outdoor sports facilities impressive enough to thrill even the most adventurous extreme-sports enthusiast, this spectacular historic city is the perfect springboard for making the leap between the urban and the outdoors. See Emperor Maximilian’s glorious fifteenth-century influences in the Gothic Hofkerche Cathedral, the city’s landmark Goldenes Dachl (golden roof), and the remarkable Gothic and Baroque buildings strewn along the winding cobbled streets of its charming historic Altstadt (Old Town). Every year thousands of tourists are drawn to this delightful picture-perfect city presided over by the imposing jagged peaks of the Nordkette mountain range and the majestic Habsburg palace.

Graz

Located in the southeast of the country near the Hungarian border, Graz is Austria’s second-largest city, and arguably its cultural centre. Named in 2003 as Europe’s ‘Capital of Culture’, there is much to see and do in chic, cosmopolitan Graz, a destination renowned for its Renaissance-era architecture, its leafy parks and walkways, its vibrant arts scene and its excellent restaurants. While must-see sights include the Kunsthaus, a modern art gallery built in a strange and futuristic design, and Schlossberg, an ancient castle reached by funicular railway, Graz will also reward travellers who spend some extra time in the city, simply soaking up its youthful, spirited energy, enjoying its exciting nightlife scene and making a tour out of the city’s outstanding selection of eateries.

Melk

Located on the banks of the lovely Danube River, Melk is an attractive little town in northern Austria. The town’s main tourist attractions are the impressive eleventh-century Melk Abbey, a vast monastery built high above the town, and the renaissance-era Schallaburg Castle, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens and hosting regular interesting cultural exhibitions. Other attractions include the Abbey Church, with gold-adorned domes; the library, housing medieval manuscripts; and the Marmorsaal, a baroque hall with a spectacular ceiling fresco and red marble walls. Visitors can explore all these architectural wonders as well as Artstetten Castle, Burgruine Hohenegg Castle, and Leiben Castle. Additionally, the Jauerling-Wachau Nature Park provides wonderful opportunities for hiking, picnicking and climbing.

Saalbach

Bregenz

Culture, nature, and history combine in an attractive package at Bregenz, the capital of the Vorarlberg state in western Austria. The town attracts music lovers with its famous, spectacular classical music and dance concerts set on the ‘Floating Lake Stage’ as part of the Bregenz Festivals in summer and spring respectively. The enormous Lake Constance (Bodensee) is also the perfect setting for romantic dinner at an overlooking restaurant or walking, running and cycling along the promenade. Spend a day wandering the fortified old town (or Upper Town, set in the higher area), through cobbled lanes and past significant sites like the half-timbered Old Town Hall, Deuringschlosschen Palace, built in 1698, and the 14th-century Parish Church of St. Gallus, featuring breathtaking Late Baroque and Rococo interiors.

Seefeld

The luxurious ski town of Seefeld is situated in the Innsbruck-Land District of Tyrol, about 17 kilometres northwest of Innsbruck. The town, set on a plateau and boasting spectacular landscapes of thick woodlands and extensive trails, is arguably the most sought-after destination for cross-country skiing in the world. It is also remarkably snowsure, as well as remarkably busy during the summer months when visitors can hike, climb, go mountain biking, and enjoy a few rounds on pristine golf courses. Seefeld is known for its exclusivity, with prestigious and world-class hotels, restaurants, services, and facilities. Once a farming village, the town is dotted with several delightful historic churches; make sure to visit the Parish Church Of St. Oswald and Seekirchl.

Lake Traunsee

Situated in central Austria’s popular resort area of Salzkammergut, Lake Traunsee is the deepest lake in the country, known for its spectacularly scenic natural surrounds characterised by towering snow-capped mountains and quaint little villages. According to local legend, this lake is home to a lake monster known as ‘Lungy’. In Austrian folklore, legends tell of a water-horse being ridden by a mermaid that resides in these waters. Visitors can look forward to a variety of recreational activities such as sailing, boat cruises or gondola rides to enjoy the picturesque scenery. Other popular activities include exploring Schloss Ort, a medieval castle at the edge of the lake; hiking Grunberg mountain, which features an extensive network of trails offering spectacular views; and visiting K-Hof Kammerhofmuseen in Gmunden, an impressive and world-class museum.

Kufstein

Kufstein, often referred to as the ‘Pearl of Tyrol’, is a gorgeous historic town, surrounded by the majestic Kaiser Mountains, and is the second-largest in the state. Of the numerous heritage attractions, some of the highlights include the breathtaking Kufstein Fortress, which guards the town from a height and holds dazzling cultural events on a regular basis, and the St. Vitus’ church, with origins dating back to 788 and boasting some exquisite 15th-century frescoes. Kufstein is the home of the largest outdoor organ in the world (featuring 4948 pipes), and the magnificent instrument chimes out at midday every day (and at 18h00 in summer). Music lovers should also make sure to take a listen to the legendary German folk song, the Kufstein Song, based on the town.

Ellmau

Characterised by idyllic scenes of bright green, sheep-dotted hills, historic churches, and massive, towering snowy mountains at its back, the alpine town of Ellmau is a photographer’s dream. Located in Austria’s Solllanl Region, about twelve kilometres southeast of Kufstein, the alluring town is part of the Ski Welt Area, and is renowned for its excellent outdoor activities. Visitors can look forward to a diversity of winter sports including skiing, snowmobiling, and much more, while summer brings the chance for breathtaking hiking, climbing, mountain biking, swimming, tobogganing, and golf. The traditional village boasts an unusually serene atmosphere, and an array of charming shops, bars, cafes, restaurants and good services add appeal. History enthusiasts will delight in a visit to the local heritage church.

Bad Hofgastein

Bad Hofgastein rests in the widest, sunniest part of the Gastein Valley, an enormous resort area in the Austrian state of Salzburg and just 90 minutes’ train ride from Salzburg City. Boasting over 250 kilometres of pistes, various ski schools and routes to suit all levels, the area is a ski enthusiast’s paradise; however, there is plenty more on offer. Natural hot springs flow from the earth here, drawing crowds to enjoy their curative qualities for hundreds of years, and now complemented by exclusive, state-of-the-art spas and wellness centres. The mountain lake and alpine forests provide awe-inspiring views and brilliant photographic opportunities, as well as the chance to explore other types of outdoor sports. Bad Hofgastein’s charming downtown area is home to a focal square hosting excellent live music and lined with delightful luxury boutiques, restaurants and hotels.