Austria is like stepping into a fairytale. Picture majestic alpine landscapes, charming villages, and castles that seem straight out of a storybook. With so much charm and scenic beauty, it’s no wonder I’ve visited Austria over a dozen times over the years. Together with my Austrian wife, we’ve created this guide to the most breathtaking spots that this Central European country has to offer!
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- Transport: Get a weekly or monthly pass in cities like Vienna (works on all metros, trams, and buses). For intercity travel, book ÖBB train tickets in advance – they offer “Sparschiene” tickets starting at €9. Between using public transport and booking advance train deals, this has saved me hundreds of euros on each trip.
Austria, especially Vienna and Salzburg, can be as expensive as Switzerland. But if you follow the strategies above, you can explore this cultural powerhouse for much less. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in Austria:
The Most Beautiful Places in Austria at a Glance
Ready to dive into the amazing beauty of Austria? Here are all my favorite spots you should know about, which I cover in more detail below:
- Most Picturesque City: Vienna
- Best Lakeside Village: Hallstatt
- Top Mountain City: Innsbruck
- Best City for Music Lovers: Salzburg
- Most Scenic Valley: Wachau Valley
- Best Alpine Escape: Zell am See
- Top Cultural Gem: Graz
- Most Unique Nature Spot: Eisriesenwelt
- Best Hidden Gem: Schloss Ort
If you’re in search of picturesque cities, charming towns, and epic nature spots, keep reading! Or perhaps you’re yearning for a tranquil retreat amidst nature? Here are all the scenic spots in Austria that should be on your radar.
1. Vienna: A Symphony of Art and Culture
- 📍 Location: Vienna, Austria
- 🏆 Best For: Museum buffs 🖼️, classical music lovers 🎻, architecture enthusiasts 🏰
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Schönbrunn Palace, catching a performance at the State Opera, strolling through MuseumsQuartier
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for outdoor events and mild sightseeing weather 🌸
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Beethoven Wien – Stylish stay near Naschmarkt with classic Viennese flair
Vienna blends imperial grandeur with modern creativity in a way that feels seamless. One moment you’re admiring baroque palaces, the next you’re sipping coffee in a minimalist art café. The MuseumsQuartier is a great starting point for gallery-hopping, and nearby, the Belvedere has Klimt’s “The Kiss” on full display.
Schönbrunn Palace is popular, but the gardens behind it are just as impressive and totally free. If you’re into music, standing-room opera tickets at the Staatsoper cost under $15 and are worth every cent.
Beyond the major sights, Vienna’s neighborhoods like Neubau and Leopoldstadt are full of indie shops and cool food spots. Don’t skip the würstelstands for a quick, tasty local meal. Vienna might be regal, but it’s never boring, especially if you take time to explore beyond the tourist core.
2. Salzburg: A Harmonious Blend of History and Music
- 📍 Location: Salzburg, Austria
- 🏆 Best For: Music lovers 🎶, history fans 🏰, romantic travelers 💕
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring Hohensalzburg Fortress, visiting Mozart’s birthplace, attending a palace concert
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for music festivals and clear mountain views 🎻
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Elefant – Elegant historic hotel right off Getreidegasse with cozy charm
Salzburg delivers on both beauty and atmosphere. Baroque buildings and alpine backdrops make it feel like a movie set. Getreidegasse is packed, but duck into the medieval alleys nearby for quieter walks. Hohensalzburg Fortress at sunset gives the best views in town, especially with the Alps glowing behind.
You don’t need to splurge for culture here. Concerts inside the Marble Hall at Mirabell Palace are surprisingly affordable and feel extra special knowing Mozart once performed in that exact room. The acoustics are unmatched, and the intimate setting adds to the experience.
The city’s music legacy runs deep, but Salzburg isn’t stuck in the past. Contemporary galleries, indie cafés, and cool student neighborhoods bring a modern vibe to this historic town. Even if you skip the Sound of Music tours, you’ll still leave humming something classical. Salzburg is one of those places where culture feels alive in every corner.
3. Hallstatt: Austria’s Picture-Perfect Village
- 📍 Location: Hallstatt, Upper Austria
- 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📷, couples 💑, curious adventurers 🧭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Salt mine tour, sunrise at the Skywalk, boat ride on Lake Hallstatt
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to June for smaller crowds and blooming landscapes 🌼
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Seehotel Grüner Baum – Lakefront boutique hotel with incredible balcony views
Hallstatt might look like a postcard, but it’s even better in person. Tucked between a glassy lake and rugged peaks, the village is compact but full of surprises. The salt mine tour isn’t just for kids. Sliding down those wooden ramps deep inside the mountain is more fun than you’d expect, even for adults.
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For a quieter experience, head to the Skywalk platform early in the morning. You’ll catch the village glowing in soft light, with barely anyone around. Renting a rowboat is another way to soak in the views without the crowds.
Despite its popularity, Hallstatt still has an old-world charm. Visit the Bone House for something uniquely local and slightly eerie. If you stay overnight, the streets empty out after the last tourist buses leave, and you’ll have the village nearly to yourself. It’s peaceful, magical, and totally worth staying longer.
4. Innsbruck: A Jewel in the Alps
- 📍 Location: Innsbruck, Tyrol
- 🏆 Best For: City explorers 🏙️, mountain lovers 🏔️, active travelers 🎿
- 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the Nordkettenbahn, visiting the Golden Roof, hiking the Nordkette range
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for skiing, June to September for alpine hikes 🏞️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: NALA Individuellhotel – Artsy boutique hotel near the Old Town with mountain views
Innsbruck strikes a rare balance between historical charm and alpine adventure. One minute you’re strolling through pastel streets in the medieval Old Town, the next you’re on a cable car soaring toward a snowy peak. The Nordkettenbahn takes you from city to summit in under 30 minutes.
Winter is all about skiing and snowboarding, with slopes that begin practically at your doorstep. Summer transforms the area into a hiking paradise, with panoramic trails above the tree line. The Bergisel Ski Jump offers incredible views and a peek into Olympic history.
Back in town, the Golden Roof is iconic, but don’t miss local cafés and restaurants tucked into side streets. The city has a youthful energy thanks to its university crowd, which keeps things fun, affordable, and slightly offbeat. Innsbruck is where old-world Austria meets high-altitude adventure.
5. Schloss Ort: An Island Castle in the Lakes District
- 📍 Location: Gmunden, Upper Austria
- 🏆 Best For: Castle chasers 🏰, lakeside photographers 📸, peaceful explorers 🚣
- 📸 Top Experiences: Crossing the wooden bridge, boating on Lake Traunsee, dining at lakeside restaurants
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for warm weather and clear lake reflections 🌅
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Seehotel Schwan – Elegant lakeside hotel just minutes from Schloss Ort
Schloss Ort feels like it was pulled straight out of a medieval storybook. Sitting on a small island in Lake Traunsee, it’s connected to the mainland by a long wooden footbridge. Crossing that bridge is part of the charm, especially as the water sparkles in the afternoon light.
Climbing the tower gives you sweeping views of the Salzkammergut region, with forested hills and calm blue waters all around. To really take it in, rent a boat and paddle around the island at golden hour. It’s quiet, serene, and surprisingly uncrowded compared to bigger attractions nearby.
Gmunden itself is a relaxed lakeside town worth exploring. After visiting the castle, grab dinner at a restaurant by the water and watch the sunset turn the lake gold. Schloss Ort is one of those rare places where the atmosphere feels just right from the moment you arrive.
6. Graz: Austria’s Southern Gem
- 📍 Location: Graz, Styria
- 🏆 Best For: Design lovers 🎨, foodies 🥨, culture seekers 🧠
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Kunsthaus, climbing the Schlossberg, exploring the Old Town
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for outdoor dining and clear city views ☀️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Wiesler – Trendy hotel near the Mur River with modern art touches
Graz has a cool, creative energy that sets it apart from Austria’s other cities. The Old Town is a UNESCO site filled with red-tiled rooftops, winding alleys, and romantic courtyards. Just a short walk away, the futuristic Kunsthaus stands like a blue alien pod, proving that Graz thrives on contrast.
For panoramic city views, hike up to the Schlossberg and chill near the iconic clock tower. The double spiral staircase at the Burg is worth the detour and makes for great photos. You’ll also find modern art installations hidden throughout the city center.
Graz’s farmers markets are unbeatable. At Kaiser-Josef-Platz, you can try Styrian pumpkin seed oil and fresh baked goods straight from the producers. After that, grab lunch at a buschenschank and relax in one of the leafy parks nearby. Graz may fly under the radar, but it’s a true cultural gem.
- Read next: Cheap European Vacations
7. Wachau Valley: A Riverside Paradise
- 📍 Location: Wachau Valley, Lower Austria
- 🏆 Best For: Wine lovers 🍷, bikers 🚲, river cruisers 🚤
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring Melk Abbey, biking to Dürnstein, sampling local wines in Krems
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for winery visits and scenic boat rides 🌻
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Richard Löwenherz – Charming riverside hotel in Dürnstein with a garden overlooking the Danube
The Wachau Valley is perfect for slow travel. Rent a bike in Krems and cruise along the Danube, stopping at terraced vineyards and medieval towns along the way. Melk Abbey is the showstopper, with golden halls, a massive library, and sweeping river views.
Further downriver, Dürnstein is a small village with serious charm. Climb up to the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was once held, and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the valley. The town’s blue tower is one of the most photographed landmarks in Austria.
Local wine taverns, called heurigen, serve crisp Grüner Veltliner and simple regional dishes in cozy garden courtyards. The pace is slow, and the setting is unbelievably scenic. For travelers who want culture, nature, and good wine all in one place, Wachau is hard to beat.
8. Zell am See: Alpine Beauty and Lake-side Leisure
- 📍 Location: Zell am See, Salzburg Region
- 🏆 Best For: Outdoor adventurers 🥾, lake lovers 🛶, alpine photographers 📷
- 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the Schmittenhöhebahn, walking the lakeside promenade, boating on Lake Zell
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for hikes and lake views, December to March for skiing ❄️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Seevilla Freiberg – Stylish lakefront hotel with direct beach access and mountain views
Zell am See is one of Austria’s prettiest alpine towns, with Lake Zell on one side and snow-capped peaks all around. Take the Schmittenhöhebahn up the mountain for 360-degree views and panoramic trails that stretch across the Hohe Tauern range. In winter, the same area becomes a hub for skiing and snowboarding.
The lakeside promenade is perfect at sunset, when the town lights start to glow and the mountains reflect in the water. Local cafés buzz with activity, and you’ll often hear live music coming from open-air patios. For a peaceful escape, hop on a boat and cruise to the quieter side of the lake.
If you’re looking for day trips, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road is nearby and offers jaw-dropping scenery at every turn. Zell am See makes it easy to combine outdoor adventure with relaxing alpine vibes in a single visit.
9. Vorarlberg: Austria’s Architectural Hotspot
- 📍 Location: Vorarlberg, Western Austria
- 🏆 Best For: Design fans 🧱, nature lovers 🌲, cultural travelers 🎭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting Kunsthaus Bregenz, exploring Schwarzenberg, hiking the Bregenzerwald trails
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to October for warm hikes and summer festivals 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Schwärzler – Cozy modern hotel near Bregenz with mountain views and local design touches
Vorarlberg surprises travelers with its mix of sleek architecture and alpine traditions. In Bregenz, the glass-walled Kunsthaus is a top pick for contemporary art, while nearby villages like Schwarzenberg showcase perfectly preserved wooden chalets and timeless mountain views.
Design is everywhere here. The Werkraumhaus in Andelsbuch is a local favorite, celebrating innovative carpentry and furniture built by regional craftspeople. It’s also part of the Bregenzerwald architecture trail, which guides you through picturesque villages that blend old techniques with new ideas.
Hiking paths in this region lead through forested hills and open meadows, with cheese dairies and farmhouses scattered along the way. Try the Bregenzerwald Cheese Road, where each stop is both scenic and delicious. In summer, the Bregenz Festival brings world-class performances to a massive floating stage on Lake Constance. Vorarlberg is a region where design, culture, and nature all work in harmony.
- Read next: Best Places to Live in Austria
10. Kitzbühel: A Year-Round Alpine Retreat
- 📍 Location: Kitzbühel, Tyrol
- 🏆 Best For: Ski lovers 🎿, hikers 🥾, luxury travelers 💼
- 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the Hahnenkamm gondola, hiking the Kitzbüheler Horn, exploring the medieval town
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: January to March for skiing, June to September for alpine trails 🌄
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Zur Tenne – Upscale chalet-style hotel in the town center with Tyrolean decor
Kitzbühel is a dream destination no matter the season. In winter, it’s home to the legendary Streif downhill course, attracting the world’s top skiers and snow lovers. The Hahnenkamm gondola takes you right up to those famous slopes, with amazing views along the way.
When the snow melts, hiking and mountain biking take over. The Kitzbüheler Horn offers one of the best summit trails, with wildflowers and alpine views that stretch for miles. For something more relaxed, stroll through the medieval Old Town with its painted facades and boutique shops.
Evenings are best spent at a traditional alm, where hearty Tyrolean dishes and warm service make you feel like a local. Autumn is one of the best times to visit, when the trails are quiet and the colors are unreal. Kitzbühel balances outdoor adventure with mountain-town charm in the best way.
11. Eisriesenwelt: An Icy Underground Wonderland
- 📍 Location: Werfen, Salzburg Region
- 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🧗, geology fans 🧊, offbeat explorers 🧭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the ice caves, riding the steep cable car, visiting Hohenwerfen Castle
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October for full access and clear hiking paths ❄️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Der Burgblick – Cozy adults‑only inn with castle views and quiet atmosphere
Eisriesenwelt is one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. As the largest ice cave system on Earth, it features frozen waterfalls, icy tunnels, and towering formations lit by flickering magnesium lamps during guided tours.
Getting there is half the fun. From Werfen, you’ll take a cable car and hike a short trail up to the entrance perched 5,400 feet above sea level. Inside, the temperature stays below freezing, even in summer, so pack layers. The 700-step climb is worth it for the surreal atmosphere and shimmering chambers.
Pair your visit with Hohenwerfen Castle just down the valley. Its mountaintop setting and falconry shows make it more than just a side trip. Eisriesenwelt offers an unforgettable mix of natural wonder and physical adventure you won’t find anywhere else in Austria.
12. Bregenz Forest: An Alpine Haven
- 📍 Location: Bregenzerwald, Vorarlberg
- 🏆 Best For: Architecture lovers 🏡, hikers 🥾, cultural explorers 🎭
- 📸 Top Experiences: Following the architecture trail, hiking the Kalbelesee trail, visiting Werkraumhaus
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: June to September for mountain hikes and traditional festivals 🌲
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Gasthof Hirschen – Traditional alpine inn with handcrafted interiors in the heart of Schwarzenberg
Bregenz Forest blends tradition and modern design like nowhere else in Austria. Wooden houses with steep gables line quiet streets, while sleek new buildings showcase Vorarlberg’s bold architecture scene. The architecture trail between Schwarzenberg and Andelsbuch takes you past both, with stops at workshops and studios along the way.
The Werkraumhaus is a glass-fronted center dedicated to local crafts and innovation. You’ll find exhibitions, carpentry demos, and even furniture for sale that’s made right in the region. If you’re into thoughtful design, this place is a must-see.
Hiking trails through the forest lead to peaceful lakes, grazing pastures, and mountain views that seem untouched. The Kalbelesee trail is perfect for sunrise or late afternoon reflections. In winter, this area transforms into a quiet snow-covered retreat. Bregenz Forest is where Austrian alpine life meets modern creativity in the most balanced way.
13. Styrian Lake District: Austria’s Hidden Gem
- 📍 Location: Salzkammergut, Styria
- 🏆 Best For: Lake explorers 🛶, nature lovers 🌲, festival goers 🌸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Boating on Grundlsee, exploring Toplitzsee, hiking to Loserfenster
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to June for Narcissus blooms and clear hiking weather 🌼
- 🏨 Where to Stay: MONDI Hotel am Grundlsee – Alpine-style resort with panoramic lake and mountain views
The Styrian Lake District feels like a secret pocket of paradise in Austria. Grundlsee offers crystal-clear water surrounded by towering peaks, perfect for kayaking or lakeside lounging. Take a boat ride to Toplitzsee, a mysterious lake with a double water layer and tales of hidden wartime treasures.
Hike up to the Loserfenster viewpoint for one of the best panoramic shots in the region. The mix of rugged cliffs, forested trails, and alpine lakes makes every trail feel like its own mini adventure. In spring, the Narcissus Festival transforms the area with flower-covered boats parading across the lake.
Locals unwind at traditional wine taverns or thermal spas in nearby Bad Aussee. The pace is slow, the scenery is unreal, and it never feels overly crowded. For travelers who want calm beauty and a touch of mystery, this lake district hits the mark.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Beautiful Places in Austria to Visit
Want to learn more about Austria’s most beautiful locations? Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the top Austria activities and attractions.
What is the most scenic place in Austria?
Choosing the most scenic place in Austria is a difficult task due to the country’s abundant natural beauty and breathtaking architecture. However, one of the most frequently celebrated destinations is the historic town of Hallstatt.
Nestled between a serene lake and towering mountains, Hallstatt provides postcard-perfect scenery. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is well known for its charming 16th-century Alpine houses, the historic salt mine, a beautiful Gothic parish church, and the picturesque market square. The panoramic view from the World Heritage Skywalk “Welterbeblick,” perched high above the town, is especially unforgettable.
What is the best time to visit Austria?
Austria is a beautiful destination throughout the year, with each season offering its unique charm. If you’re interested in winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding, the best time would be from December to March. This is when the country’s numerous ski resorts are in full swing. On the other hand, if you wish to hike, sightsee, and enjoy Austria’s lush green landscapes, the period from May to September provides warm, pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities. For lower prices and fewer tourists, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons (April to early June and late September to October).
What is the most beautiful part of Austria?
Here are some of the most picturesque regions in Austria:
- Salzkammergut (Lake District): This region boasts pristine lakes, alpine mountains, and charming towns. Hallstatt, the most beautiful village in the world, is located here, nestled between the Hallstätter See and the Dachstein Alps.
- Salzburg: The birthplace of Mozart and the setting for “The Sound of Music.” Salzburg is a baroque city with a historic center that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Hohensalzburg Fortress offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding Alps.
- Vienna: The capital city offers imperial palaces, historic coffeehouses, and cultural institutions like the State Opera and the Belvedere Palace.
- Tyrol (Tirol): A region known for its alpine landscapes. It’s a haven for skiers in the winter and hikers in the summer. Towns like Innsbruck and Kitzbühel are popular destinations.
- The Austrian Alps: Spanning much of the country, the Alps are not only a winter sports destination but also offer breathtaking vistas, alpine meadows, and picturesque villages.
- Wachau Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage site. This stretch along the Danube River is known for its terraced vineyards, historic towns like Dürnstein and Melk, and the Melk Abbey.
- Grossglockner High Alpine Road: This panoramic road offers some of the best views of the Austrian Alps. It leads up to the highest mountain in Austria, the Grossglockner.
- Styria (Steiermark): Known as the “Green Heart” of Austria. This region offers lush landscapes, thermal spas, and the historic city of Graz.
- Vorarlberg: Located in the westernmost part of Austria, it’s known for its modern architecture, alpine landscapes, and Lake Constance.
- Burgenland: Known for its wine-growing areas, unique steppe landscape, and the Neusiedler See, Central Europe’s largest endorheic lake.
What is the most photographed place in Austria?
The picturesque village of Hallstatt is often cited as one of the most photographed places in Austria. With its stunning lakeside location, set against a backdrop of the Dachstein Alps, and its beautifully preserved 16th-century Alpine houses, it’s easy to see why. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has become a magnet for photographers and tourists alike, especially with the rise of social media platforms where scenic spots are shared globally. The view of Hallstatt from the Hallstätter See (lake) with the Alps in the background is particularly iconic and frequently captured by visitors.
Why is Austria so special?
Austria holds a unique allure for a multitude of reasons:
- Cultural legacy: Austria is the cradle of classical music. Vienna is home to legendary composers such as Mozart, Beethoven, and Schubert. The city’s concert halls and festivals celebrate this rich musical heritage.
- Architectural splendor: From the grand palaces like Schönbrunn and Belvedere in Vienna to the medieval buildings of Salzburg, Austria is replete with architectural marvels that span centuries.
- Natural beauty: The Austrian Alps are a testament to nature’s grandeur, offering both winter sports and summer hikes. Then there’s the pristine beauty of lakes like Wolfgangsee and the lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley.
- Historical significance: Austria, especially Vienna, was a significant political and cultural hub during the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It has left its mark in terms of the country’s art, architecture, and culinary delights.
- Arts and festivals: The country is a hotspot for art enthusiasts. It boasts institutions like the Belvedere Museum and annual events like the Salzburg Festival.
- Culinary traditions: Austrian cuisine, with specialties like Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel, and Wiener Schnitzel, has earned a cherished spot on the global culinary map.
- Quality of life: Austria consistently ranks high for its quality of life, education, and healthcare systems. This makes it not only a great travel destination but also a place many desire to live in.
As such, Austria’s combination of cultural riches, natural wonders, historical relevance, and modern achievements make it a particularly special and endearing destination for many.
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