Cited as one of the most peaceful countries in the world, Austria is a blend of natural beauty, elegant Baroque and neoclassical architecture and lively affordable culture. Despite its small size, the country offers varied experiences – from admiring the old empire charm or relaxing over a cup of coffee in one of the cosy Kaffeehauses with notes of classical music filling the air; skating across icy lakes in winter or hiking through the sunny meadows dotted with wildflowers in summer; and whisking down glittering powder slopes during the day or regenerating in the warm thermal waters at night in a spa.
Marvel at Austria’s architectural opulence in Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, and the Hofburg Palace in Vienna and Salzburg’s Altstadt (old city), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring the Hohensalzburg fortress. Visit the birthplace of Mozart and celebrate classical music at Salzburg Festival. Waltz the night away at the Johann Strauss Ball in the Kursalon Vienna. Bathe in the crystal-clear emerald waters of beautiful lakes such as Wörthersee, Weissensee, Mondsee or Wolfgangsee, surrounded by forests, meadows and mountains. Bike along the Danube River through ancient castles, charming villages, medieval towns and rolling vineyards of Wachau Valley where some of the best Austrian wines are grown. Explore Schlossberg Hill, Clocktower and Kunsthaus Art Museum with its unique modern architecture in the midst of Baroque buildings, in Graz. Discover diversity in Innsbruck, the Tyrolean capital, from exploring the alpine-urban style in modern architecture and historical buildings to the highest peaks of Nordkette mountain range with a cable car to Hafelekar at 2,334m for unique panoramic views. Try some Austrian specialties like Sacher Torte, Vorarlberg Mountain Cheese, Linzer Torte and Marillenknödel (Apricot dumplings).
The best time to visit Austria is June to September for those seeking sunshine and low rainfall, whilst November to March is ideal for those seeking winter sports.
