Austria is an Alpine country of imperial palaces, classical music and fairytale lakes. It combines elegant Vienna, baroque Salzburg and world-class ski resorts. Moreover, its coffee houses and pastries are legendary. So, it is perfect both in summer and in winter.
Most first trips combine Vienna, Salzburg and the lakeside village of Hallstatt. Then, travellers head west to Innsbruck and the Tyrolean Alps.
Read more about Austria
Top Cities in Austria
Vienna
First, the capital was the heart of the Habsburg Empire. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Then, enjoy an evening at the opera or a classical concert. Of course, don’t miss a slice of Sachertorte in a traditional café. Read our Vienna guide.
Salzburg, Graz and Innsbruck
Next, Salzburg is Mozart’s birthplace, with a baroque old town below a fortress. Meanwhile, Graz has a lively student vibe and red-roofed old town. In the west, Innsbruck sits right below the mountains, and Bregenz lies on Lake Constance.
Lakes, Valleys and Alps of Austria
- Hallstatt: A postcard village on a mountain lake. However, go early to avoid the crowds.
- Wachau Valley: Vineyards, abbeys and castles along the Danube.
- Zell am See: A lake and glacier resort for all seasons.
- Kitzbühel and St Anton: Legendary ski resorts.
A Short History of Austria
For centuries, the Habsburg dynasty ruled a vast empire from Vienna. Meanwhile, composers such as Mozart, Haydn and Strauss made it a capital of music. However, the empire collapsed after the First World War. After 1945, Austria became a neutral republic, and today it is known for its high quality of life.
Food in Austria
First, try Wiener schnitzel, goulash and Käsespätzle, cheesy noodles from the Alps. For dessert, apple strudel and Sachertorte are classics. Moreover, Viennese coffee houses are part of UNESCO’s intangible heritage. In autumn, also, visit a Heuriger, a wine tavern.
Practical Tips
- Use the trains: ÖBB trains are fast, clean and punctual.
- Buy a vignette: a toll sticker is required to drive on motorways.
- Plan around Sundays: most shops close.
- Book Christmas markets early: December is busy and festive.
For more ideas, see the official Austria tourism website.
Basic Words and Expressions to Use in Austria
Austrians speak German, with their own accent and words. Many people speak good English. Still, a friendly “Grüß Gott” or “Servus” makes a great first impression.
Finally, Austrians are fairly formal. So, use “Sie” with strangers and greet shop staff when you enter.
Austria Travel FAQ
We recommend 7 to 10 days for a first trip. That way, you can see Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt and Innsbruck. With a long weekend, however, Vienna alone already works well.
Count €50 to €80 per person per day for a budget trip. However, Vienna hotels and ski resorts in winter cost much more.
You can visit all year round. Summer is ideal for lakes and hiking, while winter is perfect for skiing and Christmas markets. Spring and autumn, meanwhile, are great for cities and wine regions.
The country is part of the Schengen Area. Many visitors can stay up to 90 days without a visa. Still, always check the latest entry rules for your passport before you travel.
Yes, rounding up or adding about 5 to 10% is usual. Also, tell the waiter the total amount when paying.
Trains are the best option, with fast connections between cities. In the Alps, buses and cable cars reach most villages. If you drive, buy a motorway vignette.
In short, the country offers imperial cities, music, lakes and mountains. So, combine Vienna and Salzburg with the Alps. Explore our detailed guides for each destination.