20 Beautiful Places To Explore In Austria

2. Hallstatt

Now famous with Instagrammers, this small scenic town overlooking the serene waters of Hallstatt Lake is one of my favourite places in Europe. I also think it looks spectacular in both summer and winter. 

The town is filled with chocolate box pretty 16th-century Alpine houses, and its winding cobbled alleyways are home to quaint cafes and independent shops. Some intriguing places make this area particularly interesting and offer you the chance to indulge in rock climbing, hiking, and boating.

I recommend visiting The Beinhaus (bone house), which displays stacks of human remains taken there due to the shortage of grave spaces. Although it sounds morbid, the experience is very different; there is something extraordinary and humbling about visiting the Beinhaus.

In my opinion, the ice and salt caves, with their impressive subterranean salt lake, are also worth visiting and truly spectacular (the funicular railway connects Hallstatt to Salzwelten).

My highlights…

• Taking a stroll along the lakefront, filled with such picturesque scenery, it looked like it was straight out of a storybook.
• Exploring the extraordinary ice caves and seeing frozen waterfalls and incredible ice formations.
• Check out the salt mine, considered the oldest in the world. Children will also love it there as they have a thrilling miners’ slide!
• Hiring a traditional wooden salt boat and exploring the lake!
• Going to Five Fingers Viewpoint, which offers one of the most spectacular views in the Alps!
• Seeing the colorful half-timbered houses in the central Market Square and having dinner at a beautiful open-air restaurant terrace around the lake.

3. Salzburg 

I completely fell for Salzburg’s charms; this is also the place for music fans! It also celebrates its accolade as Mozart’s birthplace by allowing visitors into the home where Mozart was born and running exhibitions there.

Salzburg may be home to Mozart and all things extravagant. Still, for an astounding 70% of overseas visitors, The Sound of Music remains the primary reason for travel to the city, with tour companies all over the town offering their version of the Sound of Music tour. I highly recommend going on one; they are a lot of fun! 

Also brimming with exceptional galleries and museums, a rich array of restaurants, and a diverse selection of shopping opportunities, from farmer’s markets to upmarket stores, I defy you not to fall in love with this utterly charming city, just like I did!

My favourite highlights…

• Going on a Sound of Music Tour, which was hours of kitsch fun!
• Wandering around the beautiful Old Town, one of the best-preserved city centres north of the Alps, was brimming with stunning baroque architecture.
• Hearing famous Mozart pieces performed inside the historic fortress castle at the impressive Mirabell Palace and Gardens. 
• Wandering down Getreidgasse, a charming Medieval shopping street filled with interesting independent shops.
• Going for a Mozart Dinner Concert at the Baroque Hall of St Peter`s Abbey.
• Experiencing Salzburg’s Beer Halls, my favourite was Augustiner Bräustübl Tavern, which had a garden attached to a monk’s brewery.

4. Innsbruck

I thought this was a stunning Alpine gem! The snow-topped mountains and tall, colourful buildings make it a postcard-worthy alpine destination. It has several well-managed ski resorts and excellent winter sports facilities, perfect for those who love to hit the slopes.

I recommend visiting Ambras Castle, the Folk Art Museum, and the Court Church. Some trendy hip bars are at the centre of a thriving nightlife, so I suggest making the most of these, too.

Serenity has its place here, though, as well, and I fell in love with the gentle pace of life and the many luxurious thermal spas!

My favorite highlights…

• Hanging out in the gorgeous Old Town, filled with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. 
• Visiting Tyrol Panorama, which had a museum and incredible views of the surrounding areas.
• Taking a cable car to Nordkette Mountain Range and seeing stunning Alpine scenery. 
• Swimming in Lake Achensee, Tirol’s largest lake.

5. Vorarlberg

The mountainous region of Vorarlberg boasts beautiful scenery and stunning architecture, and I was seriously wowed by it when I visited! It’s more than just a new place to explore; it’s a delight for your eyes to witness, and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves walking, biking, skiing, and photography!

I personally think the mountains of Vorarlberg present a unique and artistic view for any hiker, explorer, or artist. The landscapes between Lake Constance and the mountains are perfect for long walks, especially with the mountains reaching up to 2,000 metres.

Vorarlberg has several natural wonders. One of my personal favourites is the Verwall area in Montafon. Verwall in Vorarlberg is one of the largest European Protection Areas in the Natura 2000 network.

I love that the views you can enjoy as you hike along its routes are as beautiful and diverse as the mountains! 

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the Silvretta-Staumauer – Silvretta Wasserfall loop which was an easy hike which took me past stunning Alpine scenery and turquoise blue lakes.
• Dining on roasted dumplings at the Panoramarestaurant Karren, the views of the mountains were just incredible! 
• Attending the creative summer Bregenz Festival, the giant floating stage in the middle of Lake Constance, was an incredible sight! 

6. Graz

Despite being Austria’s second-largest city, I loved Graz’s relaxed location. Although the town is overflowing with beautiful architecture, I love that the city has a youthful vibe.

This is down to its young, friendly population and the handful of impressive modern buildings dotted around.

There are many great things to do in Graz. This city has a vibrant arts centre that complements its Renaissance courtyards and baroque palaces. Thanks to the large student population (around 50,000 students spread across four University campuses), the nightlife in Graz is booming! 

My highlights…

• Visiting the Schloss Eggenberg Parkland Palace Gardens, I loved the gorgeous peacocks! 
• Exploring the Old Town, I highly recommend stopping by the upTownArt Shop and the striking Island in the Mur which has a spectacular domed glass roof. 
• Going on a fun mobile scavenger hunt through the city which was a great way to explore its attractions. 

7. Zell am See

When you visit Zell am See, I can tell you you will see some fantastic sights! The first one likely to capture your attention is the beautiful bluer-than-blue lake, Zeller See! 

You can dive into the gorgeous lake and cycle around its picturesque, plant-filled shores. Hiking and skiing in the mountains are also available. If you have or rent a car, I recommend driving up high onto the very scenic and famous Grossglockner Road.

Over a million visitors worldwide visit Zell am See every year for new sites and adventures. When the sky’s blue is reflected in such a clear lake, it’s a genuinely gorgeous sight!

My highlights… 

• Dining on tasty semolina dumplings at the trendy Luis Gardens.
• Going snowshoeing in the winter, the snowy landscapes were so dreamy! 
• Going tobogganing on the three-kilometre-long Maisi Flitzer run which was a great family-friendly activity! 

8. Mostviertel

I personally think Mostviertel is Lower Austria’s most captivating region. It combines rolling green meadows in the North with snow-laced rugged peaks in the South.

This combination of landscapes contributes to the region’s endless charm. It boasts Europe’s largest continuous area of pear orchards.

Its chocolate-box scenery makes it a wonder for adults and children alike. The region offers museums, monuments, family activities, and ski opportunities.

My personal highlights…

• Staying overnight at the Hotel Gasthof Zur Linde, I loved the bike rental options!
• Trying a Lillet Prosecco at the Chameleon Bar.
• Hiking the Mendlingtal Valley, which took me past stunning gorges and scenic canyons. 

9. Alpbach

Alpbach has been voted the prettiest village in the country, and when I visited, I immediately saw why! The sweet village is nestled between a cluster of majestic snow-capped mountains, allowing access to the perfect ski slopes while maintaining a solid alpine tradition.

Alpbach is full of picturesque wooden farmhouses, cattle fields, and locals skilled in traditional crafts. If you fancy a taste of how this country used to be and enjoy the experience of time standing still, then in my opinion, Alpbach is the place for you! 

I would suggest trying Bikepension Gästehaus Larch Alpbach or Alphof Hotel Alpbach for places to stay here.

My favorite highlights…

• Taking an exhilarating ride on the Alpine roller coaster on a two-seater sledge.
• Taking a ride on the cable car to the top of Wiedersbergerhorn mountain, the panoramic views were stunning! 

10. Tirol

I mentioned above the historic old town of Innsbruck within beautiful Tirol. This incredible region is worth exploring! 

I personally think it’s a truly stunning spot steeped in folklore, mountains, and ski resorts. It makes a fantastic destination in this country, either in summer or winter—the scenery is truly breathtaking!

Expect miles of walking and hiking trails across nature, fresh air, and clear mountain streams. History lovers can also enjoy the record-breaking suspension footbridge that is Highline179, and I would highly recommend visiting it.

This remarkable structure is 114 meters high and 406 meters long; it connects Ehrenberg Castle to the remains of the 17th-century Roman Fortress Claudia in the market town of Reutte.

My favorite highlights…

• Visiting the suspended terrace of Café 3440 (pictured above), which sits 3,440 m above sea level where I saw incredible uninterrupted panoramic views of the beautiful Alpine scenery.
• Going on the Nordkette Cable Car, a gondola lift from Innsbruck to the Nordkette.
• Going hiking, rock climbing, cycling, and making the most of the Alpine scenery!
• Dining on homemade cakes at afternoon tea at the trendy Das Schindler in Innsbruck.  
• Going to the TOP OF TYROL, a stunning mountaintop viewing platform.

11. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

This famous winding, precarious, beautifully scenic road is wow-inducing! It will lead you to the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park and up the giddy heights of the Grossglockner (Austria’s tallest mountain), passing through the Pasterze glacier.

In my opinion, it’s an ideal way to experience the landscape at its best, as you’ll pass through mountain forests, alpine meadows, ice plains, and sheer cliff faces.

You can hire a vintage car, take a bus, ride a motorcycle, go by bike, or venture by foot; either way, the experience is jaw-dropping! Villa Orania and Schiefe Alm Hotel Bad Gastein are gorgeous accommodation options in the area.

My personal highlights…

• Stopping at the viewpoints and photographing the incredible views. 
• Hiking the incredible Glockner Trail, which took me through the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park. 

12. Nationalpark Gesäuse

The newest of this country’s beautiful National Parks, Gesäuse, is set in mountain ridges, deep valleys, and dense forests. I think it’s the perfect location for exploring unspoiled nature and is a favourite for rafting connoisseurs and hikers.

Of the six mountain peaks over 2000 meters in the park, Hocktor is the highest and most popular among visiting hikers – reaching a staggering 2369 meters in height.

I personally think artists, photographers, and travel bloggers would reap the benefits of visiting such a beautiful setting—if they can reach the top! 

My highlights…

• Camping out overnight at the tranquil Campingplatz Forstgarten campground.
• Hiking the scenic Copper Path Johnsbach, the Alpine views were stunning! 

13. Saalbach-Hinterglemm

In the district of Zell am See, you can find a municipality known for its skiing, mountain biking, and other rough and challenging outdoor sports. It’s located in the Saalbach Valley, which has some breathtaking views at any time of day, especially if you’re coming in from Bründlkopf.

This peaceful location primarily consists of small towns and has several transport links – including Zell am See, which is around 20km away.

The town itself is primarily orientated towards tourism, but that doesn’t make it any less of a perfect place for exploring and enjoying the outdoors and all it has to offer; I stayed in an eco-hotel here for a few days, and I fell in love with the uncrowded, beautiful, and tranquil landscapes! 

My personal highlights…

• Staying at Gartenhotel Theresia, a cosy, eco-friendly hotel with a relaxing spa and sauna.
• Hiking the Wurzel Trail summer hiking trail, which took me through lush meadows and Alpine buildings.

14. St. Gilgen

A stroll through the village of St. Gilgen (in Salzburg) is a welcome breath of fresh air for any travel. The town takes you by the northern shore of Lake Wolfgangsee and is coupled with elegance and fashionable flair.

It is a village teeming to the top with traditions, culture, architecture, and unique tourist locations. I thought it was charming, especially if you’re seeking a place filled with Austrian tradition!

The legendary Oxen Cross island can be found nearby, next to Fürberg Cove; both can offer any holiday explorer a sight to behold.

Finally, I recommend taking the Zwölferhorn Mountain cable car to the peak directly from the village. It’s a seriously stunning view! 

My favourite highlights…

• Hiking from From Reid to St Gilgen which followed the beautiful lake shore.
• Having beginner snowboarding lessons (in the winter), sadly, I wasn’t very good! 

15. Hochosterwitz Castle

Many consider it the most impressive medieval castle in the country, and with good reason. It stands proudly on top of a 160-meter-high Dolomite rock formation, and I personally think it looks like something out of a fairytale!

Between Easter and the end of October, visitors are allowed inside certain parts of the castle each year, and I would highly recommend visiting if you’re here during these months.

I suggest walking along the 620-metre pathway through 14 intriguing fortified gates before you reach the stunning façade of the castle. If you want to stay nearby, try the Art Lodge or Chalet Hotel Senger.

My highlights…

• Seeing the incredible Renaissance paintings displayed here.
• Attending the fun Knight’s Festival, which was filled with medieval-style battles and jousting. 

16. Krems an der Donau

Krems an der Donau is a postcard-pretty riverside town in Lower Austria’s Danube’s Wachau Valley tourist region. It is renowned for its wine production and beautiful historical centre (which has earned it a UNESCO Heritage Site status), and I loved this place! I thought it was charming, relaxed, and highly photogenic! 

Situated at the gateway to the World Heritage cultural landscape of the Wachau, it displays one of the most stunning stretches of river valley in Europe, so don’t forget to bring your camera!

I suggest Wein-Gut Hutter or Gourmethotel Am Förthof for elegant and unique places to stay.

My personal highlights…

• Going wine tasting and sampling the incredible rieslings.
• Dining on fine, creative Mediterranean cuisine at Kaiser Von Österreich. I highly recommend the wild garlic mushrooms.

17. Kitzbuhel

If you’re an avid skier and looking for one of the top ski resorts in the country then I would say you need to look no further than Kitzbuhel! 

Legends, including three-time Olympic medallist Toni Sailer, have been born on these slopes, so you’ll be in great company! 

But pretty Kitzbuhel began life in the 16th century as a mining town catering to silver and copper mining. Today, it still has a charming historical feel and has preserved some of its medieval architecture.

My highlights…

• Visiting the Krampus Museum which is dedicated to the unique historic tradition. 
• Watching the experienced skiers on the downhill racecourse. 

18. Thayatal National Park

Thayatal National Park is located close to the Czech Republic’s border. This unique location is the country’s smallest national park and one of central Europe’s last natural valleys.

The park itself is technically two parks split across the border. The landscape consists of a deep canyon with steep slopes and numerous rock formations. If you’re in the Czech Republic, the Thaya River (or the Dyje River) cuts across the canyon, making for truly spectacular views.

I personally think this deserves a place on this list for its incredible scenery, numerous hiking trails, well-preserved castle ruins, and wildlife spotting, including the European otter, the black stork, and the Wild Cat.

My highlights…

• Hiking the scenic Hardegg hiking trail which loop took me to a viewpoint where I could see the town from above.
• Spotting wildlife like cute otters and the beautiful Black Stork.  

19. Dürnstein

I was a huge fan of this almost impossibly photogenic spot! On the Danube, Durnstein is known for its beautiful buildings and scenic riverside location.

It’s also a historical hotspot for anyone wishing to visit the castle where the Lionheart, Richard the First of England, was once imprisoned! 

However, I recommend that you plan your trip to this wondrous area in the summer when it’s busy with visitors and tourists and there is a real buzz about the place. Durnstein essentially closes up in the winter.

It’s a dream for photographers, with large, sweeping landscapes, high hilltops, and stunning architecture. The castle ruins sit high up on the green hills against the blue sky, making for some perfect shots.

My personal highlights…

• Visiting Domäne Wachau winery and tasting the Grüner Veltliner white wine. 
• Visiting the Durnstein Castle, the views from the top made the climb to it worth it! 

20. Faaker See 

Faaker See is an alpine lake in the state of Carinthia. It’s the state’s fifth-largest and one of the most beautiful, famed for its glorious, clear azure water.

I fell utterly in love with this beautiful spot and its tranquil vibe when I visited. I also loved that the lake stretched on for miles! 

Popular with locals and tourists alike, you can bathe and go boating here, but I would suggest just kicking back and taking in the beautiful scenery! Enjoy! 

My personal highlights…

• Going paddleboarding (there are rentals in the area).
• Hiring a pedalo and going swimming in the clear blue waters.