The 5 most beautiful places to visit in Austria

The 5 most beautiful places to visit in Austria

1. Vienna
Austria’s illustrious capital has long upheld its reputation as a hub of classical music and art and ornate Baroque architecture. The city’s exquisite cuisine also makes it one of the most desirable places to visit in Austria. Ranked as the world’s top city for quality of life, it is also a popular choice among expats. The largest city in Austria is the epitome of elegance and hosts more than 200 grand balls every year. There are numerous opulent landmarks to explore, too, including the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg, the Rathaus, and Belvedere Palace.
Whether you want to watch the Vienna Philharmonic perform at the State Opera House, take in the sights of the city on a cruise along the Danube River, or enjoy a world-class meal at a Michelin-starred restaurant, a visit to Vienna is sure to impress. If you prefer to relax in nature, an idyllic walk through the Burggarten or sprawling Nationalpark Donau Auen is not to be missed. Thrill-seekers, meanwhile, can get their kicks on the funfair rides at the iconic Prater amusement park.

2. Salzburg
Located in central Austria, Salzburg is the fourth-largest city and the famous birthplace of Mozart. And it’s not hard to see how this magnificent historic city inspired the great composer. Sprawling along the Salzach River, against a backdrop of stunning Alpine scenery, the city is truly enchanting. Its skyline is made all the more majestic by the medieval Hohensalzburg Fortress, which sits high atop the Festungsberg hill overlooking the city. You can visit it by walking uphill for 20 minutes or taking a funicular which gets you to the top in just one minute.
Fans of The Sound of Music, meanwhile, can visit several local shooting locations including St. Peter’s Monastery and Cemetery, and Mirabell Palace and Gardens. Salzburg is also home to the actual von Trapp family residence, which is now a popular hotel. Mozart aficionados, meanwhile, can visit his famous birthplace and marvel at some of his preserved instruments and musical scores.
But if you prefer to just take in the sights and sounds of the city, a stroll through the historic old town will reveal an abundance of beautiful Baroque architecture; not to mention relaxing beer gardens.

3. Salzkammergut
With its crystal clear lakes, rolling mountains, and charming towns and cities, Salzkammergut should be on every traveler’s bucket list. Just a half-hour drive from Salzburg, the stunning UNESCO listed region is also home to Hallstatt; one of the most photogenic destinations in Austria. Surrounded by majestic mountains and sparkling water, it’s easy to see why this enchanting village has captured the hearts of so many photographers. The picturesque setting resembles something from a fairy tale; made all the more so by the colorful 16th-century chalets.
To enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the village and surrounding landscape, you can hop on a funicular railway in Hallstatt and head through the mountain valleys to the Hallstatt Skywalk viewing platform.
Austria’s biggest active salt mine, Salzwelten, is also a popular attraction in the region. Adventure-seekers will no doubt enjoy taking a boat trip across the subterranean salt lake hidden within the mine.

4. Innsbruck
Located on the banks of the Inn River, against a backdrop of 2,000-meter-high mountains, Innsbruck is one of the most idyllic places to visit in Austria. Also known as the Capital of the Alps, the country’s fifth-largest city is a popular destination among hikers and skiers. Each year, millions of visitors come to enjoy the awe-inspiring scenery and hit the slopes during winter. The city is world-famous for its excellent winter sports facilities and has twice hosted the Winter Olympics, in 1964 and 1976.
For the best views of the city and surrounding landscape, you can take a cable car from the center and journey to the top of Nordkette mountain. However, make sure you don’t miss all the exquisite castles, churches, and palaces to explore in the medieval old town itself. St. Jacob Cathedral, the Hofburg (former imperial palace), and Ambras Castle are among the must-see sights.

5. Graz
Perched on the banks of the Mur River, Austria’s second-largest city, Graz, is famous for its red rooftops and Schlossberg hilltop castle. It is also characterized by the futuristic Kunsthaus Graz, which is often dubbed the ‘friendly alien’. Floating like a giant blue balloon between the Baroque rooftops of the historic center, this unique art museum demonstrates how the UNESCO-listed town seamlessly blends the old with the new. The vibrant creativity of Graz has even earned it the nickname, the City of Design.
Another intriguing structure to explore is Murinsel; an artificial floating island in the middle of the Mur river which connects the two banks. The city is also home to the stunning UNESCO-listed Eggenberg Palace and the childhood home of Arnold Schwarzenegger.