Discover Austria's Top Destinations

Austria is a country that boasts an array of stunning locations, rich in history and natural beauty. From the grand palaces of Vienna and Salzburg to the serene Alpine slopes, there's something for every traveler. Whether you're looking to ski in the Alps or enjoy the Mediterranean vibe of a mountain lake in summer, Austria has it all.

For a comprehensive travel plan, consider these must-visit Austrian highlights.

1. Vienna

Vienna, Austria's capital, is renowned for its majestic palaces, historic cathedrals, and a plethora of museums. The 5.3-kilometer Ringstrasse encircles the city's cultural core, with the Vienna Ring Tram offering a convenient way to navigate between attractions. Notable buildings along the Ringstrasse include the Natural History Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, and the State Opera. The Imperial Hofburg Palace complex, a vast ensemble of buildings with museums, is a highlight for any visitor.

Other significant sites include the Schloss Belvedere and Schloss Schönbrunn, both boasting impressive art collections and historical significance. Vienna's museums cater to a wide range of interests, from art at The Albertina to the interactive Kindermuseum at Schönbrunn Palace. The city's ecclesiastical gem, St. Stephen's Cathedral, features a unique roof pattern and a 137-meter-tall spire.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Vienna: Best Areas & Hotels

2. Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural treasure trove, with the Getreidegasse at the heart of its Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It's home to Mozart's Birthplace, now a museum, and the picturesque Schloss Mirabell with its Baroque gardens. The city's fortress, Hohensalzburg Castle, offers panoramic views and houses the Rainer Regiment Museum and the Fortress Museum.

Accommodation: Where to Stay in Salzburg: Best Areas & Hotels

3. Tirol Province

Ellmau am Wilden Kaiser in Tirol, Austria

Tirol Province is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with Innsbruck as its capital. Visitors can ski on the Stubai Glacier or enjoy summer swims in the glacial lakes. Cultural attractions include the Ambras Palace and Swarovski Kristallwelten, a museum dedicated to Swarovski crystals.

4. Graz

Graz, Austria's second-largest city, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Baroque facades and historic buildings like the Haus am Luegg. The Schlossberg hill offers stunning views and family-friendly attractions, accessible by funicular or on foot.

5. Historic Innsbruck

Innsbruck's historic attractions include the Hofburg and Maria-Theresien Strasse, lined with 17th- and 18th-century buildings. The Nordkettenbahn funicular offers stunning city and mountain views.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Innsbruck & Easy Day Trips

6. Bregenz

Bregenz, nestled between Lake Constance and Pfänder Mountain, is known for its Lake Promenade and the Bregenz Festival. The Pfänderbahn cable car offers breathtaking views and access to the Alpine Wildlife Park and Eagle Observatory.

7. The Wachau Valley

Schönbühel Castle on the Danube River in the Wachau Valley

The Wachau Valley, along the Danube River, is a serene area with historic towns and monasteries like the Baroque Servite monastery of Maria Langegg. Schloss Schallaburg and the ruins of Aggstein Castle are also notable attractions.

8. Melk Abbey

View of the Benedictine Abbey Church Terrace, Melk

Melk Abbey is a Baroque architectural masterpiece with a stunning library and church. The terrace offers picturesque views of the Wachau Valley.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Melk

9. Hallstätter See

Village of Hallstatt, Hallstätter See, Austria

The Hallstätter See is a tranquil mountain lake with the picturesque village of Hallstatt nearby. Visitors can explore the ancient salt mine and enjoy the Skywalk viewing platform.

Read More: Top Tourist Attractions in Hallstatt and along the Hallstätter See

10. Linz

Holy Trinity column on the Main Square (Hauptplatz) in Linz

Linz, the capital of Lower Austria, is situated on the Danube River and features historic sites like Linz Castle and the Botanic Gardens.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions in Linz & Easy Day Trips

11. Achensee

Achensee, known as the "Sea of Tirol," offers clear waters for swimming, scuba diving, and boating, with surrounding mountains perfect for hiking and skiing.

12. Villach

Villach, a historic town in southern Austria, is a gateway to the Alps and features attractions like the Museum der Stadt Villach and Landskron Castle.

13. Lake Wörthersee

Lake Wörthersee is a warm Alpine lake surrounded by mountains, offering swimming, boating, and hiking, with Klagenfurt as a starting point for exploration.