Austria: The Most Beautiful Destinations and More Info

In Austria, it is common for people to spend time in traditional coffee houses, enjoying a cup of coffee or tea. Austrians are known for their cozy lifestyle and love of indulgence.

Whether in historic old towns, picturesque Alpine villages, or bustling cities - Austrian hospitality is omnipresent and contributes to making visitors feel welcome. In our overview, we showcase the most exciting cities, key attractions, provide information on climate, weather, and best travel times, and inform you about the local cuisine.

Austria has 201 cities across the country, but some are real standouts. For your next city trip, you should definitely head to the following destinations.

Vienna is the capital of Austria and a city of culture and history. The city offers a wealth of cultural experiences: From the magnificent palaces of the Habsburgs to the modern art galleries, you will find everything. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses historical landmarks such as St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg, and the Belvedere Palace. Vienna is also known for its vibrant music scene, with prestigious opera houses and concert halls.

Graz is the second-largest city in Austria. It is characterized by its charming old town flair and lively cultural scene. The old town of Graz is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses medieval castles, Gothic churches, and Renaissance palaces. The city is known for its innovative art and design projects as well as its vibrant student population.

Salzburg is the birthplace of Mozart and another cultural jewel of Austria. The old town of Salzburg, also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is marked by baroque churches, narrow alleys, and splendid squares. Mirabell Palace and the Hohensalzburg Fortress offer spectacular views of the city and surrounding landscape.

Innsbruck is a paradise for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Surrounded by the peaks of the Nordkette, Innsbruck offers a variety of activities, including skiing, hiking, and mountaineering. The old town of Innsbruck is characterized by historic buildings, colorful house facades, and traditional Tyrolean inns.

The city of Linz is an emerging center for art, culture, and technology. The city on the Danube River is home to modern architecture, innovative museums, and a vibrant music scene. The Ars Electronica Center, a museum for media art and technology, is a highlight for tech enthusiasts and art lovers alike.

Austria also has numerous attractions drawing millions of tourists each year. You must see these during your vacation.

Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna is one of the most renowned landmarks in Austria. As a former imperial summer residence, the palace impresses with its magnificent architecture. In addition to palace rooms and gardens, Schönbrunn Palace also offers various museums and attractions on site, including the Palace Theatre, the Schönbrunn Zoo - the oldest zoo in the world - and the Desert House.

The Alps stretch across much of Austria and provide a spectacular natural backdrop for outdoor activities of all kinds. From skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and climbing in summer - the Alps offer a wide range of recreational opportunities year-round. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road and the Krimml Waterfalls are just two of the many attractions in the Austrian Alps.

Hallstatt is a picturesque village in the Salzkammergut region. It is famous for its idyllic location on Lake Hallstatt and its rich history. Hallstatt's historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features medieval buildings, charming alleys, and beautiful viewpoints. Boat trips on the lake and hikes in the surrounding mountains are popular activities for visitors.

The Eisriesenwelt is one of the largest ice caves in the world, located in the Austrian state of Salzburg. The cave extends over a length of more than 42 kilometers and features fascinating ice formations, underground lakes, and mysterious passages. Tours through the cave offer visitors the opportunity to explore this unique natural wonder.

The Belvedere in Vienna is a baroque palace complex known for its magnificent architecture and extensive art collection. The palace houses works by significant artists like Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, and Oskar Kokoschka. Visitors can admire the artworks in the Upper and Lower Belvedere and explore the well-kept gardens between the two palaces.

The Danube-Auen National Park stretches along the Danube east of Vienna and is a unique nature reserve with diverse flora and fauna. The park encompasses wetlands, floodplain forests, river landscapes, and a rich wildlife, including rare bird species such as the black stork and kingfisher. Visitors can explore the national park on numerous hiking and biking trails, take boat tours on the Danube, or join guided excursions.

Generally, the climate can be described as temperate continental, with warm summers and cold winters. Temperatures vary depending on altitude and geographical location. In the Alps, summers are milder, and winters are snow-rich, while the eastern regions experience warmer summers and colder winters. The best time to visit Austria is usually between May and September.

During these months, the days are longer, the temperatures are pleasant, and the landscapes are blooming. In spring and summer, average temperatures range between 68 and 77 degrees Fahrenheit, which is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sightseeing. The travel time for Austria strongly depends on the individual preferences and activities. While the summer months are suitable for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and sightseeing, winter is perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. The fall months are great for wine tasting, cultural events, and cozy walks through the autumn landscape.

Austrian cuisine is known for its delicious dishes and traditional specialties, which can vary from region to region. An absolute highlight is the famous Wiener Schnitzel, thinly cut and breaded veal, fried to a golden crisp.

It is often served with lemon slices, potato salad, and lingonberries. For those with a sweet tooth, apple strudel is a must - thinly rolled dough filled with apples, raisins, and cinnamon, served with a sprinkle of sugar and a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The Sachertorte, a chocolate cake with apricot jam, is also a classic of Austrian desserts.

Did you know that Austria is home to some of the world's most famous composers? Renowned musical geniuses like Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Ludwig van Beethoven, Franz Schubert, Johann Strauss, and Gustav Mahler were all born in Austria or spent significant parts of their lives there.

Their works have significantly shaped music history, making Austria an important cultural center for classical music. Each year, the country's opera houses, concert halls, and music festivals draw music lovers from around the globe, eager to experience the unique atmosphere and rich legacy of Austria's music tradition.

Looking for more inspiration? Find tips for all top travel destinations bundled on bettercities.net.