12 Spectacular Spots in the Austrian Alps You Have to See to Believe

The Austrian Alps left me absolutely speechless. Standing on top of the Nordkette in Innsbruck, watching clouds drift between jagged peaks while mountain goats wandered past like they owned the place, I couldn’t believe views like this existed. The mountains here have this way of making you feel tiny in the best possible way.

Taking the cable car up to Krippenstein with its skywalk jutting out over a thousand meters of empty space and the Dachstein glacier glowing in the distance, my heart nearly stopped. These are the most beautiful places in the Austrian Alps, where nature shows off at every turn. Let me share my 12 favorite spots in these incredible mountains that completely redefined what I thought Alpine views could be!

Spectacular to See in the Austrian Alps

Looking to explore the Austrian Alps’ most beautiful places? From the majestic peaks of Grossglockner to the charming village of Hallstatt, the Austrian Alps are packed with stunning scenery. Stroll through the vibrant streets of Innsbruck, marvel at the natural beauty of Zell am See, or explore the serene trails of Hohe Tauern National Park. Discover the tranquil allure of Kitzbühel, the picturesque landscapes of Salzkammergut, or the breathtaking views from Stubai Glacier. Whether you’re into skiing, hiking, or alpine villages, here are 12 of the Austrian Alps’ most breathtaking spots!

1. Dachstein Glacier

• 📍 Location: Upper Austria/Styria border, 1 hour southeast of Salzburg and 3 hours west of Vienna
• 🏆 Best For: Skiers ⛷️, hikers 🥾, thrill-seekers 🧗‍♂️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Walking across the suspension bridge, visiting the Ice Palace, riding the panoramic Dachstein Skywalk
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round for glacier experiences, summer for hiking, winter for skiing ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Lodge am Krippenstein – Cozy mountain accommodations with stunning alpine views

Standing atop the Dachstein Glacier feels like touching the roof of Austria with views so spectacular they’ll make your knees weak. This massive ice giant offers year-round adventures at nearly 3,000 meters above sea level. The heart-stopping Skywalk features a glass-bottomed platform where you can stare 250 meters straight down into the alpine abyss.

The nearby suspension bridge, aptly named “Stairway to Nothingness,” connects to another glass platform hovering over the void. I couldn’t believe my courage when stepping onto it! For less vertigo-inducing magic, explore the Ice Palace with its frozen sculptures carved directly into the glacier. Don’t miss the Five Fingers viewing platform, where five walkways extend like a hand over the mountain edge, each offering unique perspectives of the valley below.

2. Grossglockner High Alpine Road

• 📍 Location: Central Austria, connecting Salzburg and Carinthia provinces through the High Tauern National Park
• 🏆 Best For: Road trippers 🚗, motorcyclists 🏍️, nature lovers 🏔️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Driving the serpentine mountain pass, spotting marmots and ibex, visiting the Pasterze Glacier
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to October when the road is open (closes in winter due to snow) 🌞
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grossglockner Resort – Luxurious alpine accommodations at the foot of Austria’s highest mountain

Conquering the legendary Grossglockner High Alpine Road will ruin ordinary drives for you forever with its 36 hairpin turns climbing to breathtaking heights. This 48-kilometer engineering marvel winds alongside Austria’s tallest peak and offers constant jaw-dropping vistas through your windshield. The route features 12 dedicated viewpoints, including the dramatic Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, where you gaze directly at the massive Pasterze Glacier carving its path down the mountainside.

Wildlife encounters add magic to the journey as curious marmots pop up beside the road and golden eagles soar overhead. The highest point at Edelweissspitze rewards drivers with a 360-degree panorama spanning hundreds of alpine peaks. While technically possible to complete in hours, plan a full day to appreciate all stops and short hiking opportunities along this unforgettable route.

3. Hallstatt

• 📍 Location: Salzkammergut region of Upper Austria, 1 hour southeast of Salzburg
• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📸, history enthusiasts 🏛️, romantic travelers ❤️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the world’s oldest salt mine, visiting the bone house, taking the classic lakeside village photo
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: May-June and September-October to avoid summer crowds while enjoying pleasant weather 🌷
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Heritage Hotel Hallstatt – Historic accommodations with lakeside balconies overlooking the postcard view

Stepping into Hallstatt feels like walking straight into a fairy tale that happens to be the most photographed town in Austria. This UNESCO site features colorful 16th-century houses clinging to a narrow strip between towering mountains and crystal-clear lake waters. The village gained fame through salt, and the Hallstatt Salt Mine offers fascinating tours of the world’s oldest known salt mine, dating back 7,000 years.

For something equally intriguing, visit the Bone House in St. Michael’s Chapel, where over 600 decorated human skulls create an artistic memorial. The Skywalk Hallstatt provides the definitive postcard view that made this village so famous China built an entire replica! You’ll want to rent an electric boat to capture the classic view of the town’s church spire against the mountain backdrop, an image that haunts my dreams still.

4. Innsbruck

• 📍 Location: Western Austria in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps, 2 hours from Munich and 4 hours from Vienna
• 🏆 Best For: Winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️, architecture lovers 🏰, cultural explorers 🎭
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Golden Roof, riding the Nordkette cable car, exploring the Imperial Palace
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-March for winter sports, June-September for hiking and city exploration 🏙️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: NALA Individuellhotel – Stylish boutique hotel with artistic flair, central location, and panoramic views of the surrounding Alps

Few cities on earth let you explore medieval streets and stand atop a 2,300-meter mountain peak within 30 minutes of each other like Innsbruck does. This Tyrolean capital blends alpine adventure with imperial splendor in a setting that has twice hosted the Winter Olympics. The city’s iconic Golden Roof gleams with 2,657 fire-gilded copper tiles built for Emperor Maximilian I in the 15th century.

Nearby, the Imperial Palace showcases opulent state rooms and baroque grandeur from the region’s royal past. For a complete change of perspective, ride the futuristic Nordkette Cable Car designed by architect Zaha Hadid from city center to high alpine terrain in minutes. Winter visitors can access world-class ski resorts, including Patscherkofel and Axamer Lizum, while summer transforms those same slopes into hiking paradises with flower-filled meadows and stunning views.

5. Kaprun

• 📍 Location: Salzburgerland region, 1.5 hours south of Salzburg city
• 🏆 Best For: Skiers ⛷️, hikers 🥾, adventure seekers 🚡
• 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, swimming in the mountain reservoir, exploring the medieval castle
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-April for skiing, June-September for summer activities, May and October for fewer crowds 🏔️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Das Alpenhaus Kaprun – Alpine luxury with spectacular mountain views and spa facilities

Skiing on a glacier in July sounds impossible until you visit Kaprun, where summer snow sports are just one of countless year-round adventures. This charming village nestles beneath the mighty Kitzsteinhorn mountain, blending traditional Austrian charm with cutting-edge adventure infrastructure. The crown jewel is the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, Austria’s first glacier ski area, offering turns at elevations over 3,000 meters even during summer months.

The “Top of Salzburg” observation deck presents breathtaking 360-degree views across more than 30 alpine peaks. Equally impressive are the massive Kaprun High Mountain Reservoirs, enormous dams built at 2,000 meters accessed via the “Lärchwand” inclined elevator that climbs almost vertically up the mountainside. History lovers shouldn’t miss Kaprun Castle, a remarkably preserved 12th-century fortress hosting medieval festivals throughout the summer that made me feel transported back in time.

6. Kitzbühel

• 📍 Location: Tyrolean Alps, 1.5 hours from Salzburg and 1.5 hours from Innsbruck
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury travelers 💎, skiers ⛷️, summer hikers 🥾
• 📸 Top Experiences: Tackling the legendary Streif downhill course, exploring the medieval town center, attending the Hahnenkamm Race
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January for the famous ski race, December-March for winter sports, June-September for hiking and golf ⛳
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Zur Tenne – Historic luxury hotel in the heart of the medieval town center

Imagine a place where medieval charm meets jet-set glamour and you’ve found Kitzbühel, the most legendary alpine destination in Austria. This picturesque town with pastel-colored buildings has attracted elite winter sports enthusiasts for over a century while maintaining authentic Tyrolean character. The infamous Streif downhill course stands as the town’s claim to fame, widely considered the most challenging ski race in the world with its terrifying 85% gradient sections.

Each January, the Hahnenkamm Race sees top skiers tackle this beast while thousands create a festival atmosphere below. Summer transforms Kitzbühel into a paradise for hikers with over 1,000 kilometers of marked trails through alpine meadows. The 700-year-old town center deserves exploration time, with exclusive boutiques along the Vorderstadt and excellent restaurants serving modern interpretations of Tyrolean classics that linger in your memory long after the meal ends.

7. Lake Achensee

• 📍 Location: Tyrol, Austria, nestled between the Karwendel and Rofan mountain ranges, 45 minutes from Innsbruck
• 🏆 Best For: Winter sports enthusiasts ⛷️, summer hikers 🥾, water lovers 🚤
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cross-country skiing on panoramic trails, sailing on Austria’s largest mountain lake, hiking the surrounding alpine peaks
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round – winter for skiing (December-March), summer for swimming and hiking (June-September) 🏊‍♂️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Das Kronthaler – Luxury spa hotel with stunning lake views

Imagine sailing on emerald waters while snow-capped peaks tower all around you. Lake Achensee, Tyrol’s largest natural lake, offers this postcard-perfect scene year-round. The 9-kilometer stretch of crystal-clear water draws sailors in summer and creates a stunning backdrop for winter activities. I’ve never seen cross-country skiing trails with better views than the 200 kilometers winding through this valley.

Winter transforms the region into a snow sports haven with family-friendly slopes at Rofan and Christlum ski areas. Summer brings swimming in surprisingly comfortable waters and hiking in Karwendel Nature Park. Don’t miss the thrilling Airrofan skyglider for an unforgettable mountain descent. The charming lakeside villages offer traditional Tyrolean hospitality after your adventures.

8. Lech Zürs am Arlberg

• 📍 Location: Vorarlberg, Austria, nestled in the Arlberg massif, 2 hours west of Innsbruck
• 🏆 Best For: Luxury ski enthusiasts 🎿, powder hounds 🏂, gourmet travelers 🍽️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing the legendary White Ring circuit, snowshoeing through pristine valleys, dining at award-winning mountain restaurants
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December through April for prime skiing conditions, with January-February offering the most reliable powder ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Arlberg Lech – Historic 5-star hotel with exceptional service in the heart of Lech

Royalty and celebrities carve turns alongside everyday skiers in this breathtaking alpine jewel. Lech Zürs am Arlberg combines rustic charm with sophisticated luxury against a backdrop of dramatic peaks. The exclusive village atmosphere creates an intimate setting where five-star service meets authentic mountain culture. Snow quality here ranks among Europe’s best, with regular powder days throughout winter.

The skiing is legendary, with over 300 kilometers of marked slopes connecting the entire Arlberg region. Try the famous White Ring circuit, a 22-kilometer loop that never repeats a run. Beyond slopes, the car-free village center offers high-end boutiques and exceptional dining at places like Griggeler Stuba. For something special, book a horse-drawn sleigh ride through snow-covered Zug Valley under starlit skies.

9. Seefeld

• 📍 Location: Tyrol, Austria, on a sunny plateau 30 minutes northwest of Innsbruck
• 🏆 Best For: Cross-country skiers 🎿, wellness seekers 💆‍♀️, romantic couples ❤️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cross-country skiing on Olympic trails, exploring the pedestrian village center, relaxing in luxury spa facilities
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: December-March for winter sports, June-September for hiking and outdoor activities 🌼
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Astoria Hotel & Resort – Award-winning spa hotel with mountain views and exceptional cuisine

Olympic history meets fairytale charm in this elegant mountain plateau. Seefeld has hosted Nordic events for two Winter Olympics, creating a legacy of perfectly groomed trails through snow-laden forests. The pedestrian-friendly village center captivates visitors with ornate painted buildings and the striking 15th-century parish church. Around every corner, you’ll find cozy cafés serving rich hot chocolate and traditional Austrian pastries.

Unlike adrenaline-focused resorts, Seefeld excels at balancing outdoor adventure with sophisticated relaxation. The Rosshütte funicular whisks you up the mountain for panoramic views across the Inn Valley to the jagged Karwendel peaks. Summer transforms the area into a hiker’s paradise with crystal-clear alpine lakes perfect for swimming. The town’s luxury spa hotels feature some of Austria’s most impressive wellness facilities for perfect post-activity recovery.

10. Sölden

• 📍 Location: Ötztal Valley in Tyrol, Austria, 1 hour west of Innsbruck
• 🏆 Best For: Serious skiers 🎿, party lovers 🎉, James Bond fans 🕵️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing on two glaciers, visiting the 007 ELEMENTS cinematic installation, experiencing the electric après-ski scene
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late October through early May for the longest ski season in Austria, with reliable snow on the glaciers even in autumn ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Das Central – 5-star luxury with an impressive wine cellar and three-story spa

Ski where James Bond skied in Austria’s high-altitude adrenaline capital. Sölden offers one of the longest seasons in the Alps thanks to its two massive glaciers, Rettenbach and Tiefenbach. Guaranteed snow lets you carve turns at over 3,000 meters even when lower resorts struggle. The impressive 007 ELEMENTS installation built into the mountainside showcases the Bond film “Spectre,” which was filmed here.

When lifts close, the legendary Fire & Ice bar kicks off Europe’s most energetic après-ski scene. DJs pump music while skiers dance in their boots until sunset. The resort’s “Big 3” viewing platforms provide breathtaking vistas accessible right from the slopes. You could spend weeks exploring different runs without repeating a single day. For timing perfection, visit during the annual Electric Mountain Festival, when world-class DJs transform the mountain into a high-altitude dance floor.

11. St. Anton am Arlberg

• 📍 Location: Tyrol, Austria, in the heart of the Arlberg region, 1.5 hours west of Innsbruck
• 🏆 Best For: Advanced skiers 🎿, off-piste adventurers 🏂, après-ski enthusiasts 🍻
• 📸 Top Experiences: Tackling the challenging runs of Valluga, experiencing the legendary MooserWirt après-ski, exploring the extensive Arlberg ski area
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: January-March for optimal snow conditions and classic winter atmosphere ❄️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Mooser Hotel – Luxury accommodation connected to the famous MooserWirt après-ski bar

Steep slopes and steeper parties define the birthplace of alpine skiing. St. Anton am Arlberg combines serious mountain credentials with Austria’s most infamous après-ski scene. Experts flock here for challenging terrain that has built legends since the sport began. The massive Arlberg region connects over 300 kilometers of marked pistes plus 200 kilometers of off-piste possibilities.

The steep, ungroomed runs off Valluga peak have cemented St. Anton’s reputation among expert skiers. By 4 PM, the legendary MooserWirt and Krazy Kanguruh bars transform into the Alps’ most energetic parties. Dancing in ski boots on tables becomes almost mandatory. The pedestrianized village center offers charm between historic timber buildings and modern amenities. Don’t miss the fascinating Museum St. Anton, chronicling skiing’s evolution from transportation necessity to global sport.

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12. Zell am See

• 📍 Location: Salzburgerland, Austria, nestled between Lake Zell and the Schmittenhöhe mountain, 1.5 hours south of Salzburg
• 🏆 Best For: All-season travelers 🏔️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦, water sports enthusiasts 🚣‍♀️
• 📸 Top Experiences: Skiing with lake views, swimming in crystal-clear alpine waters, riding the panoramic Schmittenhöhe cable car
• 📅 Best Time to Visit: Year-round – winter for skiing (December-March), summer for lake activities (June-September) 🏊‍♂️
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Zell am See – Historic lakefront hotel with spectacular views and private beach

Ski in the morning and swim in the afternoon in this rare dual-season paradise. Zell am See has the unique opportunity to experience snow and water sports in one picturesque medieval town. The pristine Lake Zell creates a stunning mirror for surrounding mountains and forms the perfect summer playground for swimming and sailing. Few places offer such diverse experiences within walking distance of your hotel.

The Schmittenhöhe mountain rises dramatically behind town, offering 77 kilometers of varied ski terrain with breathtaking views. The convenient CityXpress gondola whisks you from center to slopes in minutes. Summer turns the focus to crystal-clear waters perfect for refreshing swims. The car-free old town creates a charming atmosphere for evening strolls between traditional restaurants. Nearby attractions include Europe’s highest waterfall at Krimml and the spectacular Grossglockner High Alpine Road with views of Austria’s tallest peak.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in the Austrian Alps

Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in the Austrian Alps? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best Austrian Alp tourist attractions.

What is the most visited place in the Austrian Alps?

The most visited place in the Austrian Alps is arguably Hallstatt, a picturesque village that has become an Instagram sensation. Known for its stunning lake views and charming architecture, Hallstatt attracts millions of visitors each year, making it one of the most scenic places in the Austrian Alps.

Is the Austrian Alps a beautiful country?

The Austrian Alps are not a separate country but a region within Austria. However, the cities within the Austrian Alps are undeniably some of the most beautiful cities in Austria, offering a diverse range of landscapes from snow-capped mountains to crystal-clear lakes. It’s a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

What is the best base for the Austrian Alps?

Many consider Innsbruck as the best base for exploring the Austrian Alps. As the capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck offers a unique blend of urban amenities and easy access to surrounding mountain ranges. The city’s location in the Inn Valley, flanked by high mountains, makes it ideal for both winter and summer alpine activities. Skiers and snowboarders have a choice of several top-notch ski resorts nearby, while hikers and mountain bikers can explore numerous trails in the warmer months. Additionally, Innsbruck’s vibrant cultural scene, historic architecture, and efficient transportation links further solidify its position as a prime base for the Austrian Alps.

Where to go in the Austrian Alps for the best skiing?

St. Anton am Arlberg and Kitzbühel are among the top destinations for skiing in the Austrian Alps. These resorts offer world-class slopes and are a magnet for ski enthusiasts from around the globe.

What are the best places to visit in the Austrian Alps during summer?

Lake Achensee and Zell am See are fantastic summer destinations. Whether you’re into water sports or hiking, these locations offer a variety of activities that make the most of the warm weather.

Must see in Austrian Alps for first-time visitors?

Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a must-see for anyone visiting the Austrian Alps for the first time. This scenic drive offers some of the most breathtaking views of the region’s mountainous landscape.

How to experience the Austrian Alps scenery at its best?

To truly experience the Austrian Alps beauty, consider taking a cable car ride up to Dachstein Glacier. From the top, you’ll have panoramic views that are second to none, offering a perspective of the Alps that few get to see.

What is the most beautiful mountain village in Austria?

Selecting the most beautiful mountain village in Austria is difficult, as the country boasts numerous picturesque villages nestled in the Alps. However, many travelers and locals often praise Hallstatt as one of the most stunning. Hallstatt sits beside a pristine lake, with charming houses reflecting in the water, and dramatic alpine peaks rising in the background. The village’s historic market square, ancient salt mines, and the iconic Evangelical Church with its slender spire further enhance its beauty. While Hallstatt receives acclaim for its breathtaking scenery and cultural heritage, Austria has many other mountain villages that captivate visitors with their charm and natural beauty.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in the Austrian Alps

And there you have it—a whirlwind tour of the Austrian Alps that promises to leave even the most seasoned travelers awestruck. From the snow-capped peaks of St. Anton am Arlberg to the tranquil waters of Lake Achensee, the Austrian Alps are a treasure trove of natural wonders and exhilarating activities. Whether you’re carving fresh tracks on the slopes of Kitzbühel or sailing on the pristine waters of Zell am See, this region offers an unparalleled blend of adventure and serenity.

The Austrian Alps are not just a destination in Europe; they’re a canvas where nature has painted its most majestic landscapes. Each location we’ve explored is a testament to the region’s diverse beauty, making it one of the Austrian Alps destinations you simply can’t afford to miss. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and set your sights on this alpine paradise. The Austrian Alps are calling, and trust us—you’ll want to answer.