Austria is a top European holiday destination known for its stunning Alpine landscapes, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. Visitors can explore its charming cities, such as Vienna, Salzburg, and Innsbruck, and indulge in activities like skiing, hiking, and enjoying traditional music and dance performances. The country also boasts a culinary scene that features dishes like schnitzel, strudel, and beer.
Austria has a rich cultural heritage that includes classical music, art, and architecture. Visitors can explore famous cultural sites such as the Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, the Mirabell Palace in Salzburg, and the Hofburg Palace in Innsbruck. The country is also famous for its traditional music and dance, including the waltz and the polka.
In summary, Austria is a beautiful and diverse holiday destination with something to offer for every type of traveller. Its stunning natural landscapes, culture, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit country. Visitors can explore its charming cities, indulge in outdoor activities, and enjoy traditional music and dance performances while sampling its famous cuisine.
| Capital City | Vienna |
| Currency | Euro: € (EUR) |
| Language(s) | German (primary) Hungarian Slovene Burgenland Croatian |
| Time Zone | Central European Standard Time: GMT+1 Central European Summer Time: GMT+2 |
THINGS TO DO IN AUSTRIA
One of the most popular things to do in Austria is to visit the stunning capital city of Vienna. There are countless museums, palaces, and landmarks to explore, including the Hofburg Palace, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Belvedere Palace. Vienna is also known for its world-renowned classical music scene, with opportunities to attend concerts, operas, and ballet performances.
Another must-see destination in Austria is the city of Salzburg, which is famous for being the birthplace of Mozart and the setting of the film “The Sound of Music”. Visitors can explore the charming Old Town, visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress, or take a stroll through the Mirabell Palace and Gardens. The nearby Salzkammergut region also offers breathtaking natural scenery, with lakes, mountains, and hiking trails.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Austrian Alps offer endless opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. In the summer, visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and rock climbing in the mountains. The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is a particularly scenic drive that takes visitors through the heart of the Austrian Alps.
Austria is also known for its thermal spas, with many towns and cities offering spa treatments and hot springs. One of the most popular destinations is Baden bei Wien, which is known for its mineral-rich thermal waters and historic spa houses.
Finally, foodies will love exploring Austria’s culinary scene, with traditional dishes such as schnitzel, apple strudel, and sachertorte being popular favorites. Wine lovers can also enjoy exploring the country’s many vineyards and tasting local varieties such as Grüner Veltliner and Blaufränkisch.
Overall, Austria is a country that has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, or simply relaxing and enjoying the scenery.
PLACES TO VISIT IN AUSTRIA
Austria offers holidaymakers stunning scenery with the Alps, sweeping valleys and the Danube River running through the country. With 9 states to explore Austria can offer you a fantastic destination for skiing or a great city break destination by heading to the capital city, Vienna.
Vienna is Austria’s capital city and a top destination for visitors. It is known for its imperial architecture, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant nightlife. Salzburg is another popular destination, especially for those interested in Mozart and the city’s baroque architecture. Innsbruck, located in the heart of the Alps, is a great choice for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of opportunities for skiing, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
Vienna
Vienna is the capital city of Austria – a fantastic city break destination for your next European holiday. Home to Sigmund Freud, Mozart & Beethoven, Vienna is oozing culture / the arts, also reflected through its architecture. During your stay, enjoy key sights including the Danube River and the Imperial Palaces.
Salzburg
Salzburg is a city to the west of Austria overlooked by the Eastern Alps and bordering Germany. Separated by the Salzach River, Salzburg comprises of an old town (Altstadt) and a new town (Neustadt). The former offers medieval architecture and houses a museum in the birthplace of composer, Mozart.
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT AUSTRIA
- Vienna, the capital city of Austria, has been named the most livable city in the world several times, thanks to its high quality of life, cultural offerings, and efficient public transport system.
- Austria is home to the world’s largest ice cave, the Eisriesenwelt. It is located in the Tennengebirge section of the Alps and features over 42 kilometers of icy passages.
- The Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra is one of the most renowned orchestras in the world and has been performing for over 170 years. Every year on New Year’s Day, they perform a concert that is broadcast live to over 90 countries.
- Austria has a long history of producing some of the world’s most famous composers, including Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Franz Schubert, and Johann Strauss II.
- The Austrian Alps offer some of the best skiing in the world, with more than 400 ski resorts to choose from. In fact, the Austrian village of Sölden was featured in the James Bond film “Spectre” for its stunning alpine scenery.
STATES OF AUSTRIA
The Republic of Austria consists of 9 states which are either located within the valleys or located in the Alps.
Vienna
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria, located in the east of the country. It is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural landmarks such as the Schönbrunn Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Vienna is also famous for its classical music, being the home of composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as visiting museums, exploring the city’s parks and gardens, and indulging in local cuisine and wine. Vienna is also known for its coffee culture, with many historic coffeehouses to enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry. The city has a continental climate, with warm summers and cold winters, and is a popular tourist destination year-round.
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Lower Austria
Lower Austria is the largest state in Austria and is located in the northeastern part of the country. It is known for its beautiful countryside, including the famous Danube River and Wachau Valley. The state is home to many historical towns and cities, including the capital city of St. Pölten, as well as Krems and Melk. Lower Austria is also a hub for wine production, with over 1,000 vineyards in the region. The state is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and skiing.
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Upper Austria
Upper Austria is a state located in the northern part of Austria, bordering Germany and the Czech Republic. The state capital is Linz, which is also the third-largest city in Austria. Upper Austria is known for its natural beauty, including the Danube River and the Austrian Alps, as well as its rich history and culture. It is home to numerous historic towns and castles, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hallstatt, and has a strong tradition of music and the arts. The state is also known for its manufacturing industry, particularly in the areas of machinery and metalworking.
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Styria
Styria is a state located in southeastern Austria known for its stunning alpine scenery, rolling hills, and vineyards. It’s the second-largest wine-growing region in Austria and is famous for its pumpkin seed oil, which is used in traditional Austrian cuisine. The state capital, Graz, is a UNESCO World Heritage site with a charming old town and medieval castle. Styria is also home to numerous spa towns, including Bad Aussee and Bad Gleichenberg, making it a popular destination for wellness tourism. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, skiing, and biking in the state’s many national parks and nature reserves.
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Tyrol
Tyrol is a state located in western Austria known for its stunning mountain scenery, including the famous Alps. The state is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Tyrol is also known for its charming towns and villages, such as Innsbruck, which boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to several historic landmarks and museums. Visitors can also enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding in the summer months. The state is also famous for its traditional cuisine, which includes hearty dishes like dumplings, schnitzel, and apple strudel, as well as locally brewed beer and wine. Overall, Tyrol is a must-visit destination for those seeking natural beauty, adventure, and cultural experiences in Austria.
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Carinthia
Carinthia is a state located in the southern part of Austria, known for its stunning alpine landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and warm climate. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities such as skiing, hiking, and water sports. Carinthia is also home to several spa towns, providing relaxation and rejuvenation opportunities for visitors. The state is culturally rich, with numerous historic sites, museums, and festivals. The capital city, Klagenfurt, is situated on the beautiful Wörthersee lake and offers a range of attractions, including a historic old town, a stunning botanical garden, and a modern planetarium. The state is also known for its culinary specialties, such as Carinthian Kasnudeln, a type of pasta filled with cheese and served with butter and breadcrumbs.
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Vorarlberg
Vorarlberg is the westernmost state of Austria, bordered by Germany, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. Known for its stunning natural landscapes, it is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing and mountain biking. The region is also renowned for its modern architecture, including the famous Kunsthaus Bregenz museum. Vorarlberg has a strong agricultural tradition and is famous for its cheese, wine and local specialties such as Käsespätzle and Riebel. The state has a high standard of living and is known for its sustainability initiatives, including being the first carbon-neutral region in Austria. Vorarlberg is also home to the university town of Dornbirn, the charming village of Schwarzenberg, and the popular ski resorts of Lech and Zürs.
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Salzburg
Salzburg is a state in western Austria, known for its stunning Alpine scenery, baroque architecture, and historic landmarks. The city of Salzburg, birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, is the capital of the state and a popular tourist destination. Visitors can explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress, Mirabell Palace, and St. Peter’s Abbey, or take a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town. Outside of the city, Salzburg is home to beautiful lakes, such as Wolfgangsee and Fuschlsee, and popular ski resorts in the Austrian Alps, including Schladming and Bad Gastein. Additionally, the region is known for its traditional folk music, cultural festivals, and delicious cuisine, such as Salzburger Nockerl and Mozartkugel chocolates.
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Burgenland
Burgenland is the easternmost state in Austria, located on the border with Hungary. It is known for its vineyards, which produce some of the country’s best red wines. The region is also home to the beautiful Lake Neusiedl, a popular destination for watersports and birdwatching. Burgenland has a rich cultural history, with numerous castles and museums to explore. The state’s capital is Eisenstadt, which features the beautiful Esterházy Palace, the former seat of the influential Esterházy family. The state is also home to several natural hot springs and spas, making it a great destination for relaxation and wellness.
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FOOD AND DRINK IN AUSTRIA
Austrian cuisine is known for its hearty and comforting dishes, often incorporating meats, cheeses, potatoes, and dumplings. One of the most famous dishes is Wiener Schnitzel, a breaded and fried veal cutlet that originated in Vienna. Another popular dish is Tafelspitz, boiled beef served with horseradish sauce and apple-horseradish chutney. Austrian sausages, including bratwurst and frankfurters, are also widely enjoyed.
Cheese lovers will appreciate Austria’s selection of cheeses, including the famous Alpine cheese, which is often served melted over potatoes or in fondue. And for those with a sweet tooth, Austria is home to a variety of delicious pastries, including Sachertorte (a chocolate cake filled with apricot jam), apple strudel, and Kaiserschmarrn (a shredded pancake with fruit and powdered sugar).
Austria is also known for its beer, with many local breweries producing a range of styles. The most famous is probably Stiegl, which has been brewing beer since 1492. In addition to beer, Austria is also known for its wines, with the eastern region of Burgenland producing some of the country’s best reds.
Overall, the food and drink in Austria reflect the country’s rich culinary heritage, incorporating local ingredients and traditional techniques to create dishes that are both satisfying and delicious.
WHEN IS BEST TO VISIT AUSTRIA?
The best time to visit Austria depends on your interests and preferences. Summer months, from June to August, are ideal for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and water sports, as the weather is warm and sunny. The peak tourist season is during these months, so visitors can expect crowds and higher prices.
Spring (April to May) and fall (September to October) are also good times to visit, as the weather is milder, and there are fewer tourists. This is an excellent time to enjoy Austria’s scenic beauty, especially the fall foliage, and to attend cultural events and festivals.
Winter in Austria, from December to March, is perfect for those who enjoy winter sports, especially skiing and snowboarding. The country’s alpine regions offer some of the best skiing opportunities in Europe. Christmas markets are also a major attraction during this time, adding a festive atmosphere to the cities and towns.
Overall, the best time to visit Austria depends on your interests, whether it’s outdoor activities, cultural events, or winter sports. It’s recommended to check the weather forecast and local events calendar before planning a trip to Austria.
AUSTRIA GEOGRAPHY AND CLIMATE
Austria is a landlocked country situated in Central Europe, bordered by Germany to the northwest, the Czech Republic to the north, Slovakia to the northeast, Hungary to the east, Slovenia, and Italy to the south, and Switzerland and Liechtenstein to the west. The country is roughly divided into five regions: the Eastern Alps, the Northern Alps, the Central Alps, the Southern Alps, and the Vienna Basin. The country’s landscape is characterized by stunning mountain ranges, rolling hills, and fertile plains.
Austria has a temperate climate, with warm summers and cold winters. However, the climate varies greatly depending on the region. The Alpine region is characterized by cool summers and cold, snowy winters, while the eastern and northern parts of the country have warmer summers and cooler winters.
AUSTRIA TRAVEL GUIDES
Austria is the perfect destination for some time away from home however make sure you plan ahead to not miss out on the best destinations and receive local knowledge. Shop for a good Austria travel guide on Amazon today and keep it in your bag during your stay.
