Austria captivates visitors with its perfect blend of imperial grandeur, alpine majesty, and cultural richness. From the elegant streets of Vienna to the breathtaking peaks of the Austrian Alps, this Central European gem offers diverse experiences for every traveler. Whether you’re drawn to historic palaces, charming villages, or outdoor adventures, our guide to the 40 best places to visit in Austria will help you discover this country’s remarkable treasures.
The picturesque village of Hallstatt, one of Austria’s most photographed destinations
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1. Vienna (Wien)
Austria’s imperial capital tops any list of the 40 best places to visit in Austria. This elegant city along the Danube River blends historic grandeur with vibrant modern culture. Vienna’s impressive Habsburg palaces, world-class museums, and legendary coffee house culture create an atmosphere of refined sophistication that captivates visitors.
The magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, former summer residence of the Habsburg rulers
Top Attractions in Vienna
- Schönbrunn Palace – The Habsburg summer residence with spectacular gardens
- Hofburg Palace – The former imperial palace in the city center
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral – Gothic masterpiece with its distinctive tiled roof
- Belvedere Palace – Home to Gustav Klimt’s famous “The Kiss”
- Vienna State Opera – One of the world’s leading opera houses
- Naschmarkt – Vibrant market with food stalls and restaurants
2. Salzburg
Nestled along the Salzach River at the northern boundary of the Alps, Salzburg combines baroque architecture with alpine scenery. The birthplace of Mozart and filming location for “The Sound of Music,” this UNESCO World Heritage city offers a perfect blend of cultural richness and natural beauty.
Salzburg’s historic Old Town with Hohensalzburg Fortress perched above
Top Attractions in Salzburg
- Hohensalzburg Fortress – Medieval castle offering panoramic city views
- Mozart’s Birthplace – Museum in the house where the composer was born
- Mirabell Palace and Gardens – Beautiful formal gardens and “Sound of Music” filming location
- Salzburg Cathedral – Magnificent baroque church in the Old Town
- Getreidegasse – Charming shopping street with wrought-iron guild signs
3. Hallstatt
Often described as the most beautiful lakeside village in the world, Hallstatt is a picture-perfect destination in Austria’s Salzkammergut region. This UNESCO World Heritage site features colorful houses perched between mountains and lake, creating a fairytale setting that has made it one of the most photographed places in Austria.
Top Attractions in Hallstatt
- Hallstatt Skywalk – Viewing platform offering breathtaking panoramic views
- Salt Mine – The world’s oldest salt mine with underground lake
- Bone House – Unique ossuary with decorated skulls
- Market Square – Charming center with cafés and shops
- Lake Hallstatt – Crystal-clear alpine lake perfect for boating
4. Innsbruck
The capital of Tyrol, Innsbruck is a winter sports paradise surrounded by impressive alpine peaks. This city uniquely blends medieval old-world charm with modern urban amenities, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Austrian Alps. As a two-time Winter Olympics host, Innsbruck offers world-class skiing and outdoor activities.
Innsbruck’s colorful Old Town with the dramatic Alps backdrop
Top Attractions in Innsbruck
- Golden Roof – Historic landmark with 2,657 gilded copper tiles
- Nordkette Cable Car – Offering spectacular mountain views
- Imperial Palace (Hofburg) – Former Habsburg residence
- Bergisel Ski Jump – Olympic venue with panoramic views
- Swarovski Crystal Worlds – Dazzling exhibition in nearby Wattens
5. Graz
Austria’s second-largest city, Graz blends Renaissance and baroque architecture with bold modern design. The capital of Styria boasts a UNESCO-listed Old Town, vibrant cultural scene, and excellent culinary offerings. Less touristed than Vienna or Salzburg, Graz offers authentic Austrian experiences with a creative edge.
Top Attractions in Graz
- Schlossberg – Hill with clock tower offering panoramic city views
- Kunsthaus Graz – Contemporary art museum with distinctive design
- Graz Old Town – UNESCO World Heritage site with medieval and Renaissance buildings
- Eggenberg Palace – Baroque palace with beautiful gardens
- Murinsel – Artificial island in the Mur River functioning as a cultural venue
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6. Wachau Valley
The picturesque Wachau Valley stretches along the Danube River between the towns of Melk and Krems. This UNESCO World Heritage landscape features terraced vineyards, apricot orchards, medieval villages, and historic monasteries. The region is famous for its wine production, particularly crisp Grüner Veltliner and Riesling varieties.
The scenic Wachau Valley with its vineyards and the Danube River
Top Attractions in Wachau Valley
- Melk Abbey – Magnificent baroque monastery overlooking the Danube
- Dürnstein – Charming village with blue church tower and castle ruins
- Krems – Historic town with excellent wineries
- Danube Cycle Path – Scenic route perfect for biking through the valley
- Wine Tastings – Numerous vineyards offering local wine sampling
7. Zell am See
This alpine resort town sits on the shores of Lake Zell, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Offering year-round attractions, Zell am See is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with excellent skiing in winter and hiking, mountain biking, and water sports in summer. The combination of lake, mountains, and charming town center makes it one of Austria’s most versatile destinations.
Top Attractions in Zell am See
- Lake Zell – Crystal-clear alpine lake perfect for swimming and boating
- Schmittenhöhe – Mountain offering hiking and skiing with panoramic views
- Kitzsteinhorn Glacier – Year-round skiing and snowboarding
- Old Town – Pedestrian zone with shops and restaurants
- Zell am See-Kaprun – Combined resort area with diverse activities
8. Grossglockner High Alpine Road
One of the world’s most scenic drives, the Grossglockner High Alpine Road winds through Hohe Tauern National Park to Austria’s highest mountain. This engineering marvel features 36 hairpin turns and climbs to elevations of over 8,000 feet, offering spectacular views of alpine meadows, glaciers, and rugged peaks.
The spectacular Grossglockner High Alpine Road winding through the mountains
Top Attractions Along Grossglockner Road
- Grossglockner Peak – Austria’s highest mountain at 12,461 feet
- Pasterze Glacier – Largest glacier in the Eastern Alps
- Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe – Visitor center with glacier views
- Edelweissspitze – Highest point on the road with 360° panorama
- Alpine Nature Show – Wildlife viewing including marmots and ibex
9. Salzkammergut Lake District
The Salzkammergut region encompasses a stunning landscape of 76 lakes nestled among rolling hills and alpine mountains. This area of extraordinary natural beauty has attracted visitors for centuries, including Habsburg emperors who built summer residences here. Each lake town has its own distinct character and charm.
Top Lakes and Towns in Salzkammergut
- Wolfgangsee – Beautiful lake with the charming town of St. Wolfgang
- Traunsee – Deep blue lake with Schloss Ort castle on a tiny island
- Attersee – Austria’s largest lake, famous for clear water
- Bad Ischl – Historic spa town and summer residence of Emperor Franz Josef
- St. Gilgen – Picturesque village on Wolfgangsee with Mozart connections
10. Kitzbühel
This medieval town in the heart of the Tyrolean Alps is one of Austria’s most exclusive ski resorts. Known for the challenging Hahnenkamm downhill race, Kitzbühel offers world-class winter sports facilities. In summer, the area transforms into a hiking and mountain biking paradise with lush alpine meadows and spectacular mountain scenery.
Kitzbühel’s charming medieval center with its colorful buildings
Top Attractions in Kitzbühel
- Hahnenkamm – Famous ski slope hosting World Cup races
- Old Town – Medieval center with colorful buildings and upscale shops
- Kitzbüheler Horn – Mountain with hiking trails and panoramic views
- Schwarzsee – Lake with swimming and recreation facilities
- Kitzbühel Alps – Extensive network of hiking and biking trails
11. Seefeld
This charming alpine village in Tyrol has hosted the Winter Olympics twice and offers excellent cross-country skiing and winter sports facilities. In summer, Seefeld transforms into a hiking paradise with scenic trails through alpine meadows and forests. The pedestrian village center features traditional Tyrolean architecture and a relaxed atmosphere.
Top Attractions in Seefeld
- Seefeld Olympic Region – World-class cross-country skiing trails
- Wildsee – Mountain lake with swimming in summer
- Seekirchl – Iconic small baroque church
- Gschwandtkopf – Mountain with hiking trails and panoramic views
- Casino Seefeld – Elegant gaming venue
12. Alpbach
Voted Austria’s most beautiful village, Alpbach charms visitors with its traditional wooden chalets adorned with colorful flowers. This Tyrolean gem maintains strict building regulations to preserve its authentic alpine character. The village hosts the European Forum Alpbach, an interdisciplinary conference attracting political, business, and cultural leaders.
Alpbach’s traditional wooden chalets with their characteristic flower decorations
Top Attractions in Alpbach
- Alpbach Village Center – Picture-perfect traditional architecture
- Wiedersbergerhorn – Mountain with hiking trails and ski slopes
- Alpbachtal – Valley with scenic walking paths
- Parish Church – Beautiful baroque church in the village center
- Alpbach-Seenland – Hiking area with mountain lakes
13. Melk
This small town on the banks of the Danube is dominated by the magnificent Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s most impressive baroque monasteries. The abbey’s golden walls, towering above the river, create an unforgettable sight. Melk serves as the gateway to the Wachau Valley and is a popular stop on Danube river cruises.
Top Attractions in Melk
- Melk Abbey – Stunning baroque monastery with ornate library and church
- Abbey Park – Beautiful gardens with pavilion and baroque pool
- Old Town – Charming historic center with colorful buildings
- Danube Promenade – Riverside walkway with views
- Schallaburg Castle – Renaissance castle near Melk
14. Bad Gastein
This distinctive spa town is built on steep slopes around a dramatic waterfall in the Gastein Valley. Known for its Belle Époque architecture and thermal springs, Bad Gastein was a favorite retreat of European aristocracy. Today, it combines historic charm with excellent skiing and wellness facilities.
Bad Gastein’s unique setting with Belle Époque buildings and central waterfall
Top Attractions in Bad Gastein
- Gastein Waterfall – Powerful cascade in the town center
- Felsentherme – Thermal spa with indoor and outdoor pools
- Stubnerkogel Suspension Bridge – Thrilling high-altitude experience
- Belle Époque Architecture – Historic grand hotels and buildings
- Gastein Ski Area – Extensive skiing and snowboarding terrain
15. Dürnstein
This picturesque Wachau Valley town is famous for its blue church tower and the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. Surrounded by vineyards producing some of Austria’s finest white wines, Dürnstein offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and culinary delights along the Danube.
Top Attractions in Dürnstein
- Dürnstein Abbey – Baroque monastery with distinctive blue tower
- Castle Ruins – Historic site with panoramic Danube views
- Wachau Wine Region – Vineyards producing renowned Grüner Veltliner
- Danube Riverside – Scenic promenade along the river
- Old Town – Charming historic center with narrow streets
16. Bregenz
Located on the shores of Lake Constance (Bodensee), Bregenz is the capital of Vorarlberg province. The city is famous for its floating stage and summer festival featuring innovative opera productions. With mountains behind and the vast lake in front, Bregenz offers a unique combination of alpine and lakeside attractions.
The spectacular floating stage of the Bregenz Festival on Lake Constance
Top Attractions in Bregenz
- Bregenz Festival – World-renowned performing arts event with floating stage
- Pfänder Mountain – Accessible by cable car with panoramic views
- Kunsthaus Bregenz – Contemporary art museum in striking building
- Lake Promenade – Scenic walkway along Lake Constance
- Upper Town – Historic district with medieval buildings
17. Krimml Waterfalls
The Krimml Waterfalls are the highest waterfalls in Austria and among the tallest in Europe. Located in Hohe Tauern National Park, these magnificent cascades drop 1,247 feet in three stages. The thundering waters create a spectacular natural display surrounded by alpine scenery.
Top Experiences at Krimml Waterfalls
- Waterfall Trail – Well-maintained path alongside all three cascade levels
- Krimmler Achental – Beautiful valley with hiking opportunities
- WasserWunderWelt – Interactive water exhibition
- Krimml Village – Charming alpine settlement near the falls
- Gerlos Alpine Road – Scenic drive with waterfall views
18. Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave
Located near Werfen, Eisriesenwelt is the largest ice cave system in the world. Extending more than 26 miles into the mountain, this natural wonder features spectacular ice formations, frozen waterfalls, and massive ice palaces. Guided tours take visitors through illuminated chambers of this subterranean ice world.
The otherworldly ice formations inside Eisriesenwelt, the world’s largest ice cave
Visiting Eisriesenwelt
- Cable Car – Access to the cave entrance area
- Guided Tours – Expert-led exploration of the ice formations
- Ice Palace – Massive chamber with spectacular frozen features
- Hiking Trail – Scenic path to the cave entrance
- Visitor Center – Information and exhibits about the cave
19. Hochosterwitz Castle
Rising dramatically on a dolomite rock 520 feet above the surrounding countryside, Hochosterwitz Castle is one of Austria’s most impressive medieval fortresses. Located in Carinthia, this 9th-century castle features 14 defensive gates along the access path and offers spectacular views from its elevated position.
Top Attractions at Hochosterwitz Castle
- 14 Defense Gates – Each uniquely designed to repel attackers
- Castle Museum – Collection of weapons, armor, and historical artifacts
- Church of St. Nicholas – 14th-century chapel within the castle
- Panoramic Views – Sweeping vistas of the Carinthian landscape
- Castle Restaurant – Traditional dining with historic atmosphere
20. Lech am Arlberg
This exclusive alpine resort in Vorarlberg is one of Austria’s most prestigious winter destinations. Popular with European royalty and celebrities, Lech offers world-class skiing, upscale accommodations, and gourmet dining. In summer, the area transforms into a hiking paradise with flower-filled alpine meadows.
The exclusive alpine resort of Lech am Arlberg in its winter splendor
Top Attractions in Lech
- Ski Arlberg – One of the world’s premier ski regions
- White Ring – Famous ski circuit connecting Lech and Zürs
- Village Center – Upscale shops and restaurants
- St. Nicholas Church – Historic parish church with onion dome
- Summer Hiking – Extensive network of alpine trails
More Beautiful Places to Visit in Austria
21. Kaprun
Alpine resort town near Zell am See with the impressive Kitzsteinhorn glacier and the massive Kaprun Dam, offering year-round skiing and mountain activities.
22. Mayrhofen
Popular Tyrolean resort in the Zillertal Valley with excellent skiing, the Hintertux Glacier, and the famous Harakiri slope, Austria’s steepest groomed run.
23. Kufstein
Historic fortress town on the Inn River with its impressive medieval castle, famous Heroes Organ, and charming Old Town filled with traditional architecture.
24. Dachstein Glacier
Spectacular mountain region with year-round skiing, the thrilling Dachstein Skywalk, suspension bridge, and Ice Palace offering breathtaking alpine experiences.
25. Lienz
Sunny town in East Tyrol with Mediterranean flair, medieval castle, and access to both the Hohe Tauern and Dolomite mountains for diverse outdoor activities.
26. Krems
Historic Danube town at the eastern end of the Wachau Valley with a well-preserved medieval center, excellent wineries, and contemporary art museums.
27. Heiligenblut
Picturesque alpine village at the foot of Grossglockner with its iconic Gothic church spire, serving as gateway to Hohe Tauern National Park.
28. Feldkirch
Well-preserved medieval town in Vorarlberg with the imposing Schattenburg Castle, charming Old Town, and position near the borders of Liechtenstein and Switzerland.
29. Rust
Charming wine town on Lake Neusiedl known for the storks nesting on its chimneys, historic center, and excellent local wine production.
The thrilling suspension bridge at Dachstein Glacier offers spectacular mountain views
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30. Villach
Carinthia’s second-largest city with Italian influences, thermal spas, and gateway to the region’s beautiful lakes and mountains.
31. Admont Abbey
Benedictine monastery housing the world’s largest monastic library, a breathtaking baroque hall filled with frescoes and 70,000 restored books.
32. Nationalpark Gesäuse
Dramatic alpine landscape with rugged limestone mountains, deep gorges, and pristine forests offering challenging hiking and climbing routes.
33. Millstätter See
Carinthia’s second-largest lake surrounded by mountains, with crystal-clear waters perfect for swimming and water sports.
34. Gmunden
Charming lakeside town on Traunsee with the iconic Schloss Ort castle on a tiny island and beautiful ceramics tradition.
35. Semmering Railway
UNESCO World Heritage railway line cutting through spectacular mountain scenery with impressive viaducts and tunnels from the 19th century.
36. Mörbisch am See
Idyllic village on Lake Neusiedl known for its summer operetta festival performed on a floating stage and traditional wine taverns.
37. Wörthersee
Carinthia’s largest lake with turquoise waters, Mediterranean climate, and elegant villas along its shores.
38. Maria Alm
Picturesque village in Salzburgerland with an impressive Gothic church, traditional architecture, and access to the Hochkönig mountain region.
39. Linz
Austria’s third-largest city blending historic architecture with cutting-edge cultural institutions like the Ars Electronica Center and Lentos Art Museum.
40. Gastein Valley
Alpine valley with three spa towns (Bad Gastein, Bad Hofgastein, and Dorfgastein) offering thermal springs, skiing, and hiking opportunities.
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Exploring the Best of Austria
Austria packs an incredible amount of beauty, culture, and adventure into a relatively small country. From the musical heritage of Vienna and Salzburg to the breathtaking alpine scenery of Tyrol and Salzkammergut, the 40 best places to visit in Austria offer diverse experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re drawn to historic cities, charming villages, or outdoor adventures, Austria rewards visitors with unforgettable memories.
Before your trip, remember to arrange reliable connectivity with an eSIM to navigate easily between these magnificent destinations. With excellent transportation infrastructure connecting most major attractions, Austria is a pleasure to explore in any season. Start planning your Austrian adventure today and discover why this alpine nation continues to captivate travelers from around the world.
