19 Most Beautiful Places To Visit In Austria

In addition to the fresh mountain air and idyllic scenery, the European country is home to culturally sophisticated cities, quirky places, and breathtaking architecture! I’m a huge fan, and from my many trips exploring this refined and picturesque country, here are my favourite spots I’d love to share with you…

1. Vienna

I’m always in awe of this elegant and majestic city! It’s a gorgeous blend of imperial grandeur, seriously impressive architecture, leafy green spaces, a vibrant arts and music scene and cozy historic coffee houses. I was completely enchanted by its sophisticated blend of old-world elegance, infused with a generous dash of romance! 

Located in the northeastern part of the country along the banks of the Danube River, it is the capital and largest city of Austria, with a population of 2 million people. Its historic city centre is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

While I was here, I soaked up the grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace and the stunning Rathaus (City Hall), the gothic beauty of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the artistic elegance of Belvedere Palace, the buzzy charm of Naschmarkt market, the whimsical colours of Hundertwasserhaus and the mighty Hofburg Palace – once the seat of the powerful Habsburg dynasty!

• Address: northeastern part of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring and summer (but winter for the Christmas Markets)

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the chic and trendy 4-star Jaz in the City hotel – I was completely won over the live music performances on the rooftop bar, the superb music-centric design which included a cool vinyl record player in my room and the quirky reception which also doubled as a record store! 
• Seeing a performance of the wonderful Wiener Symphoniker at the Golden Hall – I loved the ornate decor – especially the grand chandeliers and intricate ceiling paintings of Apollo – and the exceptional sound and acoustics! 

2. Hallstatt

This UNESCO World Heritage Site place is an Instagrammer’s dream! This small scenic village of only 741 residents overlooking the serene waters of Hallstatt Lake is one of my favourite places in Europe! Spectacular in both summer and winter, with a magical, fairytale-like atmosphere, it’s home to chocolate box pretty alpine wooden 16th-century houses framed by a very dramatic mountain backdrop!

Located in the Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria (Oberösterreich), I strolled through winding cobbled alleyways lined with quaint cafes and independent shops. I caught the funicular railway to explore the ancient Salt Mine, which features an impressive subterranean salt lake, and admired the views from the Skywalk ‘World Heritage View.’

• Location: 70 kilometers southeast of Salzburg
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: both summer and winter are equally special

My highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous gem Fenix Hall Boutique Hotel – I was really charmed by the restored heritage building which dated back to the 1850, the cozy but modern boho design and the jaw-dropping mountain views from my guest room!
• People-watching in the charming Market Square, and dining on the open-air terrace of Rudolfsturm overlooking the lake – both the views and the hearty and herby spinach dumplings were just divine!

3. Vorarlberg

This is a place where dirndls, folk music and towering mountains rule! I was completely in awe of the seemingly endless alpine landscapes, picturesque villages, and innovative architecture and how it was perfect balance of tranquility and outdoor adventures.

Situated in the Rhine Valley and the Alps in the western part of the country, it covers an area of over 1,004 square miles. Bordered by Germany, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein, it’s a popular destination for all kinds of outdoor activities including mountaineering, hiking, cycling, skiing and snowboarding.

I really enjoyed visiting the scenic city Bregenz (my photo is above) where I saw the famous Bregenz Festival on stunning Lake Constance, skiing in the Arlberg region (when I came here in the winter), hiking in the Montafon Valley during the summer, admiring innovative wooden architecture in Bezau, taking in truly breathtaking views from the Pfänderbahn Cable Car and going on a day trip to the pretty Alpine Schwarzenberg Village set high in the mountains (my photo is above)!

• Location: Western part of the country 
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: June to September

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the stunning 4-star Amrai Suites – I was completely charmed by the infinity pool which had stunning views of the Montafon mountains and the striking contemporary design which featured trendy wood, and Montafon stone and copper accents!
• Going on a sunrise hike to the Wartherhorn Mountain, and while the 4am start was a bit brutal, the breathtaking views from the summit made it all worthwhile (my photo is above!) – the sound of cowbells along the way added a quaint touch! 

4. Salzburg 

This handsome gem of city is a music and culture haven! The birthplace of Mozart has an enchanting blend of baroque architecture, winding cobbled streets and a stunning alpine backdrop. I was completely won over by its sophisticated and romantic ambiance, which was also incredibly cosy and alluring!

Located along the Salzach River at the northern edge of the Alps in the western part of the country, near the border of Germany, this city is home to approximately 158,000 residents. Its picturesque Old Town, which is very easy-on-the eye, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

I personally loved strolling around and visiting the exceptional art galleries, museums, boutique stores and historic cafes, exploring the jaw-dropping Hohensalzburg Fortress, visiting Mozart’s birthplace at Mozart’s Geburtshaus, and exploring through the dazzling Mirabell Gardens.

I also spent my time admiring the baroque beauty of Salzburg Cathedral, taking in the stunning views from the Kapuzinerberg Monastery, going on a Sound of Music tour, which was hours of kitsch fun and sipping freshly brewed Augustiner Märzen in the atmospheric Augustiner Bräustübl Tavern.

• Location: northern part of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring and summer

My favourite highlights…

• Staying at the pretty and unique 4-star Boutique Hotel & Villa AUERSPERG – I was enchanted by the striking design which mixed old and new, the organic, homemade buffet breakfast, the rooftop spa and the atmospheric yoga loft where I joined the group sessions each morning! 
• Going to a fabulous Mozart Concert accompanied with a candlelit dinner at St. Peter Stiftskulinarium – I loved how it was the oldest restaurant in the whole of central Europe and we dined on dishes based on recipes from Mozart’s time! 

5. Innsbruck

This very easy-on-the-eye city nestled in the heart of the Alps always wows me! It boasts a truly breathtaking mountain and riverside setting, with snow-capped peaks framing colourful medieval buildings, charming cobbled streets, quaint shops, and historic landmarks. I’m always captivated by its unique blend of historic elegance and outdoor adventure.

Located in the state of Tyrol in the western part of the country, its home to around 132,000 residents and is a global hub for winter sports (and has hosted the Winter Olympics twice)! 

On my trip, I visited the iconic Golden Roof (a three-story balcony adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles), explored the very impressive grand Hofburg Palace, rode the Nordkette Cable Car and which had stunning alpine views, strolled through the pretty Old Town lined with boutique shops, cute cafes, excellent restaurants and trendy bars and went skiing in the nearby Patscherkofel Mountain.

• Location: Tyrol in the western part of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: summer and winter

My favorite highlights…

• Staying at the trendy 4-star Hotel Innsbruck – I really liked its modern contemporary design, the fabulous onsite spa (especially the infrared sauna) and how I could walk to the cable car in just 5 minutes!
• Dining at Oniriq Restaurant – I was in awe of its innovative seven-course tasting menu, the fact it only had seven tables and its unique carrot meringue which had a sweet, and subtly earthy flavour! 

6. Graz

This is a gorgeous city with a youthful, vibrant buzz! I was a big fan of the harmonious blend of well-preserved medieval architecture, modern design, and excellent cultural attractions all set against the picturesque backdrop of the Mur River and surrounding hills! 

Located the foothills of the Styrian Alps along the Mur River, in the southeastern part of the country, it’s the second largest city in the country with just over 303,000 residents. There’s also a large student population – around 50,000 students spread across four university campuses, so the nightlife was buzzing!

I found some amazing things to do here, including exploring the iconic Schlossberg hill with its tall clock tower, the Uhrturm, offering stunning city views. I admired contemporary art at the futuristic Kunsthaus Graz, strolled through the UNESCO-listed Old Town filled with historic cafes and boutique shops, visited the beautiful Eggenberg Palace (I loved the pretty peacocks!), and marvelled at the Gothic beauty of Graz Cathedral.

• Location: south of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: May to September (for the best weather).

My highlights… 

• Dining at the upscale Restaurant ARTIS – I thought the intimate romantic decor, the raspberry ruffle, the chocolate custard and saffron risotto were all divine!
• Staying at the unique boutique 4-star Aiola Living Graz – I loved the creative contemporary design, my individually designed pet-friendly guest room (especially the quirky parrot on a stand sculpture!) and the stylish on-site interior store. 

7. Tirol

I’m always in awe of this pure alpine paradise! It’s filled with captivating alpine landscapes infused with the sounds of yodeling and cowbells, majestic snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and chocolate-box pretty villages. To me, it feels like a tranquil, postcard-perfect utopia!

The region, located in the western part of Austria, covers an area of 4,880 square miles. It is a gorgeous destination in both summer and winter and is home to over 80 ski resorts!

When here, I skied at the world-famous St. Anton am Arlberg, explored the breathtaking Stubai Glacier, hiked through the scenic Zillertal Valley, visited the historic Innsbruck Old Town, walked across Highline179, a vertigo-inducing pedestrian suspension bridge and dined at the seriously wow-inducing Café 3440 – one of the highest coffeehouses in the country which stands at 3,440 meters above sea level! 

• Location: western part of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: summer or winter

My favourite highlights…

• Stepping onto the mountaintop viewing platform the Stubai Glacier, extending nine meters over the mountain, was thrilling and a bit nerve-wracking – but the feeling of being suspended in air and the breathtaking alpine views made it unforgettable!

8. Saalbach-Hinterglemm

I thought this alpine resort was just so laid back and dreamy! It’s all about gorgeous alpine views, rolling green meadows, snowy peaks, and adorable villages that I loved how it perfectly mix peaceful vibes with a lively mountain buzz! 

It’s nestled within the Kitzbühel Alps, in the heart of the Pinzgau region, in the state of Salzburg it’s home to 2,911 residents and an influx of tourists (like me!) in the winter and also the summer.

In the summer, I stayed at the wonderful eco-retreat 4-star Gartenhotel Theresia (my photo is above), hiked the stunning Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps and Baumzipfelweg treetop trail (the highest tree-top trail in the whole of Europe), explored the breathtaking Schattberg Mountain, tackled world-class mountain biking trails, and took in the zen-like vibe of the nearby Lake Zell.

During the winter, I hit the slopes of the vast Ski Circus Saalbach-Hinterglemm-Leogang-Fieberbrunn, went tobogganing and snowshoeing, and immersed myself in the fun and lively après-ski scene! 

• Location: 90 kilometers southwest of Salzburg
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: summer or winter

My favourite highlights…

• Staying at the superb 4-star design hotel GLEMM by AvenidA Superior Hotel during the ski season – I was completely won over by the chic Insta-worthy decor, the modern onsite spa, the heated outdoor swimming pools and how it was only 400 meters from the ski lift so I could access the slopes really easily!

9. Zell am See

I’m a big fan of this idyllic beauty spot! It’s a picturesque, postcard-pretty town featuring traditional Alpine houses surrounding a sprawling, serene alpine lake, all framed by towering snow-capped mountains.

Located at the base of the Hohe Tauern mountains in the Salzburg state in the western part of the country, it is home to just over 10,200 residents and serves as a stunning tourist hub in both summer and winter.

• Location: 100 kilometers south of Salzburg
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: summer or winter

My favourite highlights…

• Soaring through the sky on a tandem paragliding adventure after taking off from Schmittenhöhe with a very experienced instructor (who I felt safe with!) – the breathtaking views of the alpine peaks and Lake Zell below made it a very magical experience!

10. Mostviertel

This is a wonderful orchard-filled region! I really love the story-book scenery here – the rolling hills are dotted with blossoming orchards, traditional farmhouses, historic abbeys, well-preserved monasteries, charming villages and ancient forests. 

Located in Lower Austria (Niederösterreich), in the northeastern part of the country, the region stretches from the Danube River in the north to the Alpine foothills in the south. It is home to Europe’s largest continuous area of pear orchards, with thousands of pear trees spread across its rolling hills.

I come here to explore the scenic Pear Blossom Trail in the spring, visit the historic Basilica Sonntagberg with its breathtaking views, hike and cycle through the wonderful Pielach Valley, and discover the natural beauty of the Ötscher-Tormäuer Nature Park, which is home to dramatic gorges and waterfalls.

• Location: Lower Austria, 100 kilometres west of Vienna
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring to autumn

My personal highlights…

• Enjoying a glass the region’s signature pear cider (Most) and home-made sough bread at the cozy family-run Perbersdorfer Heuriger in Neuhofen an der Ybbs.

11. Alpbach

This picture-perfect award-winning Alpine gem was once voted the most beautiful village in the country (in a television contest organised by Austrian Television)! I love the traditional wooden chalets, the pretty flower displays, and the truly magical alpine setting framed by green meadows and snow-capped mountains. I also love how it feels timeless and traditional with a cosy and serene vibe.

Nestled within the Kitzbühel Alps in the Tyrol region, in the western part of the country, it has an altitude of around 1,000 meters above sea level and only 2,553 residents.

On my visits, I’ve been skiing at the excellent Alpbachtal Ski Resort, dined on traditional Austrian cuisine, relaxed in cozy historic inns, hiked to the tranquil lake the Zireiner See, visited craft shops and glass-blowing workshops in the nearby Rattenberg Old Town (which was a 6 mile drive away), explored the trails of the Alpbachtal Wildschönau Nature Park! 

• Location: Tyrol, western part of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring to autumn

My personal highlights…

• Visiting the family-run Schnapsbrennerei Moserhof traditional distillery located in the picturesque town of Zederhaus. I especially loved how they embraced sustainable practices and also their potent cherry and apricot brandies! 

12. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

This is the most famous road in the country! I was in awe of how it winds through the stunning Hohe Tauern National Park with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush green valleys, sprawling alpine meadows, glacial landscapes and then eventually leads to the giddy heights and panoramic vistas of Austria’s tallest mountain, the Grossglockner, and the magnificent Pasterze Glacier! 

Located in the state of Salzburg and Carinthia, it spans 30 miles, with 36 hairpin bends and reaches a level of 8,215 feet at its highest point, the Edelweißspitze. 

On my road trip, I drove through mountain forests, vast ice plains, and alongside sheer cliff faces, stopped at the viewing platforms and marvelled at the breathtaking views from the Edelweißspitze, Fuscher Törl and the fascinating Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe where my jaw-dropped at the stunning vistas of the Grossglockner and the Pasterze Glacier. I also stopped over in the area and hiked the scenic alpine trails to really make the most of the wonderful scenery here.

• Location: states of Salzburg and Carinthia
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: the road is open from early May to early November

My personal highlights… 

• Staying overnight at the cosy 4-star Wanderhotel Taurerwirt – I really enjoyed staying in the traditional chalet-style Austrian lodge, the onsite spa, the pine four-poster bed in my guest room and its fine location nestled at base of the mountains!

13. Nationalpark Gesäuse

I love how wild and untamed this place feels! When I was here I was totally wowed by its dramatic limestone peaks, fast-flowing rivers, deep valleys, gorgeous alpine meadows, and pristine wilderness where Golden Eagles soared above and agile mountain goats navigated steep cliffs!

Nestled within the Northern Limestone Alps, in the Styria (Steiermark) region, it covers an area of 42 square miles and is perfect for outdoor adventurers! 

I take short breaks here staying in the nearby town of Hieflau and I’ve hiked the dramatic Lugauer Loop, admired the breathtaking vistas of the Hochtor massif, the highest mountain in the Ennstaler Alps, went white-water rafting (which was awesome fun!) and visited the nearby Admont Abbey which had a very interesting historic library! 

• Location: Weng 2, 8913 Admont
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: summer

My personal highlights…

• Hiking the scenic 5 mile Gsengscharte Round Trail which started in Haindlkarhütte, and ascended through the Gsengscharte pass – it took me 4 hours to complete but the Insta-worthy views of the surrounding mountains made it worth it!

14. St. Gilgen

I think this is a very romantic lakeside spot! It’s ridiculously pretty lakeside village with sparkling lake views, and dreamy mountains which made me feel like I had stepped straight into a postcard! I also loved how it was brimming with genuine Austrian tradition!

It’s located on the western shores of the pristine Lake Wolfgangsee in the Salzkammergut region of the northwestern part of the country and is home to around 3,700 residents. 

I personally loved taking the scenic ride on the Zwölferhorn Cable Car (the alpine views were breathtaking!), boating and paddle-boarding on Lake Wolfgangsee, gazing at the timber chalets in the village, hiking the picturesque Plombergstein Loop, discovering the Mozarthaus St. Gilgen – a Baroque-style house that was the birthplace of Mozart’s mother – and enjoying hearty Austrian cuisine at the cozy lakeside restaurants! 

• Location: 30 kilometers east of Salzburg
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring to autumn

My personal highlights…

• Taking the moderately challenging but well marked Ried to St. Gilgen 5.4 mile route – it took me on a magical 2.5 hour journey past the shimmering Wolfgangsee Lake and thick ancient forests.

15. Hochosterwitz Castle

This is wonderful medieval fortress and very popular attraction! I was in awe of how it sat photogenically atop a steep hill, surrounded by rolling countryside, with its fairytale-like turrets, winding pathways, and sweeping views of the Carinthian countryside. I thought it had a romantic and magical vibe that made me feel I had stepped into a medieval storybook!

Located in Carinthia, in southern part of the country it’s perched very dramatically on a 172-meter (564-foot) dolomite rock and its construction first started in the 16th century around 1571.

Walking up the winding uphill path (after paying the €18 admission fee) and around this exceptionally preserved Renaissance-era building was a very memorable experience. I was impressed by how its fortified gates, towers, and walls, as well as the interiors, courtyards, and chapel, were still intact. I also browsed the museum’s historic artifacts, including interesting paintings and weapons, before I left.

• Address: Hochosterwitz 1, 9314 Launsdorf
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: April to October (when visitors are allowed inside certain parts of the castle)

My highlights…

• Browsing unique mementos in their gift shop – there were medieval-style pendants, postcards and interesting documentary DVDs detailing the history of the castle.
• Capturing the perfect Insta-worthy shot of the majestic castle from the charming nearby village of Sankt Georgen am Längsee – this was definitely the best viewpoint! 

16. Krems an der Donau

This is a quaint and gorgeous historic riverside town! It felt like stepping into a postcard-perfect scene with its cobblestone streets, pretty medieval buildings, seemingly endless vineyards, the shimmering Danube River, and a timeless, tranquil ambiance.

It’s nestled along the famous Danube River, in located in Lower Austria (Niederösterreich) and is the eastern gateway to the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its gorgeous landscapes, vineyards, and picturesque historic towns. It’s also the oldest wine-producing towns in the whole country.

On my visit, I adored wandering the cobblestone streets and striking medieval buildings of the picturesque Old Town, discovering the impressive Steiner Tor city gate, gazing at modern art at Kunsthalle Krems, sampling award-winning wines at Winzer Krems winery, taking a scenic boat cruise, and cycling along the wonderful trails.

• Location Lower Austria around 70 km west of Vienna.
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring to autumn

My favourite highlights…

• Going on a scenic boat cruise which took us on a trip through the gorgeous Wachau Valley and other popular beauty spots – the scenery was filled with sprawling vineyards, historic castles and pretty traditional villages.
• Dining on a meat-free goulash and apricot dumplings while listening to live traditional music at the cozy Salzstadl restaurant – I also loved how the smiling serving staff dressed in traditional dirndls and lederhosen! 

17. Kitzbuhel

This is a very pretty Alpine town which turns into a chic, upscale ski resort in the winter! I thought it was the perfect mix of storybook alpine charm, colourful medieval buildings, breathtaking mountain views and a glamorous yet cozy vibe!

Nestled in the Austrian Alps in the Tyrol region of the western part of the country, this town is home to around 8,300 residents, a number that grows dramatically during the ski season. It is the venue for the legendary Hahnenkamm Race, renowned as one of the world’s most prestigious downhill skiing competitions. With its 230 kilometres of ski slopes, it has earned a reputation as one of the best ski resorts globally!

In the winter, I hit the pristine slopes and take advantage of the lively après-ski scene and during the summer I hike and bike the scenic trails of the Kitzbüheler Horn, explore the charming medieval old town with its colourful buildings and boutique shops and indulge in world-class dining with a mix of traditional Tyrolean and international cuisine.

• Location: Tyrol, western part of the country
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: every season has its benefits

My highlights…

• Spending an afternoon at the contemporary Kitz Spa at the upscale Hotel Kitzhof – I loved the unique pine sauna and brine steam bath, how they used vitalized Grander water (which is known for its revitalising properties), the exclusive Susanne Kaufmann toiletries and my very relaxing Pomegranate Cream Pack Treatment! 

18. Thayatal National Park

I really enjoying visiting this wild and untouched protected nature reserve! To me it feels like stepping into a peaceful wilderness oasis, with its green forests, slow-flowing rivers, spectacular river valleys, deep gorges, jagged cliffs and storybook historic castles.

It’s located in Lower Austria, in the northernmost part of the country, along the Austrian-Czech border and is around 5.1 square miles in size. It’s also home to a large variety of flora and fauna, including rare European wildcats, otters, black storks, kingfishers, the Apollo butterfly and rare orchids. 

I camped in the park (there was a site adjacent to the National Park House), explored the miles of hiking trails, visited the fairytale like Hardegg Castle perched above the valley, cycled the Thaya Valley Cycle Trail, kayaked along the Thaya River and explored pretty Hardegg, the smallest city in the entire country!

• Address: Merkersdorf 90, 2082 Hardegg
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring to autumn

My favourite highlights…

• Hiking the family-friendly Einsiedlerweg trail (near Hardegg) which was an easy circular walk and took me just over two hours to finish – I loved the gorgeous views of Thaya River and the majestic Hardegg Castle, that it took me near the Czech border and the river! 
• Stopping by the interesting Visitor’s Centre gift shop – I loved the unique animal and botanical photo books, and the handy outdoor tools which they had for sale! 

19. Dürnstein

I thought this historic town riverside town was very romantic! It was like discovering a hidden gem frozen in time, with its cobbled streets lined with pretty medieval buildings, a striking blue abbey tower, gorgeous views of the Danube River and surrounding vineyards.

Located in the Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Lower Austria, it’s home to just 900 residents but Dürnstein Castle is famous as being the place where King Richard the Lionheart of England was held captive in 1192! 

During my stay, I marvelled at the iconic blue tower of its Baroque abbey, hiked up to the famous historic Dürnstein castle, and found charming shops, and cozy wine taverns to spend time in.

• Location: Lower Austria, 80km west of Vienna
• Location Map
• Best time to visit: spring to autumn 

My personal highlights…

• Sampling wine at the family-run Weingut Bohmer winery – I loved their exceptional citrusy Sauvignon Blanc which I found was cultivated in the Frauengärten vineyard, it was seriously delicious!
• Dining at the rustic-chic restaurant Küffer Keller – I loved the Mediterranean-like garden, the aroma from the large charcoal grill, the all you can eat salad bar and my dish of foraged portobello mushrooms which were grilled with locally grown herbs. 

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