Austria
Overview
Monumental like the Schönbrunn Palace itself, Austria champions its artistic legacy and carries on establishing cutting-edge galleries, museums, and an increasing number of additions to the cultural scene – in the capital and beyond. It is a country of unspeakable natural beauty, the idyllic region of Salzkammergut containing Austria’s arguably most scenic town, Hallstatt. Hiking and skiing are pursuits for the great outdoors, while the famously convivial café culture lives on in cities small and large.
Top Attractions
- Explore the historic center of Vienna, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its imperial palaces, elegant boulevards, and cultural landmarks like the Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
- Discover the musical heritage of Vienna with visits to iconic venues like the Vienna State Opera, Musikverein, and Haus der Musik, as well as attractions dedicated to famous composers like Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss.
- Visit the picturesque city of Salzburg, birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and setting for the iconic film “The Sound of Music,” with its charming old town, medieval fortress, and Baroque architecture.
- Explore the stunning landscapes of the Austrian Alps, with opportunities for hiking, skiing, and mountain biking in popular destinations like Innsbruck, Zell am See, and St. Anton am Arlberg.
- Experience the cultural heritage of Austria’s wine regions, with opportunities for wine tastings, vineyard tours, and gourmet dining in picturesque villages like Wachau, Burgenland, and Styria.
Local Cuisine
- Indulge in the flavors of Austrian cuisine, known for its hearty stews, savory pastries, and sweet treats influenced by Central European and Alpine traditions.
- Sample iconic dishes like Wiener Schnitzel (breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet), Schweinsbraten (roast pork with gravy), and Tafelspitz (boiled beef with horseradish and apple sauce), served with sides like dumplings, potatoes, and sauerkraut.
- Try Austrian specialties like käsespätzle (cheese noodles), knödel (dumplings), and goulash (meat stew), as well as desserts like apfelstrudel (apple strudel), sachertorte (chocolate cake), and kaiserschmarrn (shredded pancake).
- Savor regional delicacies like Tyrolean gröstl (fried potatoes with meat and onions), Styrian pumpkin seed oil, and Salzburg mozartkugeln (chocolate marzipan balls), showcasing the diverse flavors and ingredients of Austria’s different regions.
- Don’t forget to try Austrian coffee culture, with a thriving cafe scene in cities like Vienna and Salzburg serving up specialty coffee drinks like melange, einspänner, and mokka, along with delicious pastries and desserts.
Outdoor Activities
- Take a scenic hike or bike ride along the Danube River, with opportunities for exploring charming villages, historic castles, and picturesque vineyards along the way.
- Go skiing or snowboarding in the Austrian Alps, with world-class ski resorts like St. Anton am Arlberg, Kitzbühel, and Ischgl offering pristine slopes, stunning mountain scenery, and après-ski nightlife.
- Explore the crystal-clear lakes and rivers of the Austrian countryside with opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing in destinations like Lake Wolfgangsee, Lake Hallstatt, and the Salzach River.
- Go hiking or climbing in the Austrian Alps, with opportunities for guided tours, rock climbing, and via ferrata routes in scenic areas like the Zillertal Alps, Hohe Tauern National Park, and the Dachstein Mountains.
- Experience the natural beauty of Austria’s national parks and nature reserves, with opportunities for wildlife watching, birding, and nature photography in habitats ranging from alpine meadows to forested valleys to rugged mountain peaks.
Cultural Experiences
- Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Austria with visits to museums, galleries, and cultural institutions like the Belvedere Palace, the Albertina, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
- Explore the vibrant arts and music scene of Vienna, with opportunities to attend concerts, opera performances, and art exhibitions showcasing Austrian and international talent.
- Experience the traditions and customs of Austrian folk culture with visits to traditional festivals, markets, and events like the Vienna Opera Ball, the Salzburg Festival, and the Viennese Ball Season.
- Discover the history and legacy of Austria’s imperial past with visits to historic palaces, gardens, and monuments like Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and the Belvedere Gardens.
- Participate in local festivals and celebrations, such as the Vienna Christmas Market, the Vienna Film Festival, and the Salzburg Easter Festival, to experience the vibrant culture and spirit of Austria firsthand.
