Explore the magical world of Austria, a country that combines the draw of European city breaks with the beauty of the Alps. Gems like Vienna, where imperial castles and grandeur live together with the music of waltzes, are some of the most beautiful places in Austria. Salzburg is where Mozart was born, and its Baroque buildings look beautiful against the Alpine scenery.
With snowy hills all around, Innsbruck is a great place for people who like to try new things. They can ski down the slopes or go hiking in the nearby mountains. Hallstatt is a picture-postcard town that looks like it has been frozen in time. It is set on the shores of a glacial lake. Austria is more than just a place to visit; it’s a symphony of things to do, from hiking in the grand Alps to swimming in clear lakes, from skiing to waltzing, and from discovering astonishing architecture to getting to the heart of Europe. You are about to find the most beautiful places in Austria.
Perfect time to visit scenic & beautiful places in Austria
The tourist season in Austria runs from May to September. The summer has great weather, long days, and lots of busy sites. Shoulder seasons (spring and autumn) include April, early May, September and October. These months are better for travel because there are fewer people, the weather is nice and there are more places to stay.
1. Innsbruck
The proud city of Tyrol, Innsbruck, is surrounded by beautiful mountains. It is known for its Olympic history and top-notch ski resorts. The famous Golden Roof and the City Tower with its views of the Old Town are in the historic centre. From Hungerburg, cable cars take you to beautiful views of the Alps. Hofburg Palace and the crystal wonders at Swarovski Crystal Worlds are great places to learn about history. In this one-of-a-kind city, you can carve powder in the morning and enjoy culture treats in the afternoon. Don’t miss the exciting Olympiabobbahn ride in nearby Igls. It goes around 10 bends at 68 mph (109.43 kmph). It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in Austria, and Innsbruck has the best of both worlds.
Discover How to reach:
- By air:Â Innsbruck Airport is the busiest airport in the city
- Best places to stay:Â AC Hotel by Marriott Innsbruck, Hotel Innsbruck
- Best time to explore:Â December to April
2. Zell am See
Zell am See is a mountain paradise on the shores of Lake Zeller. The Hohe Tauern National Park is a great place to go on a journey. Enjoy sports at the lake, hike Schmittenhohe, and drive the exciting Grossglockner High Alpine Road in the summer. People can swim, ride bikes, and take lovely drives around the beautiful blue lake. With high hills like Kitzsteinhorn in the background, this resort is full of outdoor fun. Dive into Zeller See, ride your bike along its plant-filled shores, and get mountain thrills by skiing and hiking. One of the most beautiful places in Austria is Zell am See, which is a natural attraction.
Discover How to reach:
- By air:Â Salzburg Airport is the nearest airport, 76.7 km away
- Best places to stay:Â Grand Hotel Zell am See, Hotel Salzburgerhof
- Best time to explore:Â August
3. Semmering Railway
The Semmering railway is a UNESCO gem that winds through tunnels, viaducts, and bridges to show off Austria’s beautiful scenery. The panoramic train restaurant is the best place to enjoy this nostalgic trip through the Austro-Hungarian Empire’s technical prowess, which dates back to 1854. The Arlberg Railway goes from Innsbruck to Bludenz and the Brenner Railway goes from Innsbruck to Verona. Both of these scenic trains have tunnels, arched bridges, and stunning views of the Alps. These interesting train trips through Austria are a great way to get to know the country’s past and natural beauty.
Discover How to reach:
- By air:Â Vienna International Airport is the nearest airport, 102.7 km away
- Best time to explore:Â May-June
4. Salzburg
People love “The Sound of Music,” which made Salzburg famous as a fairy tale city. The city’s Baroque churches, Mozart’s legacy, and movie-like scenery make it even more magical. Beautiful St. Gilgen is located by Lake Wolfgangsee. Monuments to the artist include Mozart’s Birthplace, Mozart’s Wohnhaus, and Mozartplatz Square. Featuring the Residenz palace, Festung Hohensalzburg, and the Alps, the city has a view that looks like it belongs in Hollywood. Get away from the people by hiking to Augustiner Braustübl or taking the cable car to Untersberg. Visitors can see the church and the Benedictine Abbey of St. Peter in the Old Town. For its history, music, and stunning views, Salzburg is one of the most beautiful towns in Austria.
Discover How to reach:
- By air:Â Salzburg Airport is the busiest airport in the city
- Best places to stay:Â Sheraton Grand Salzburg, Radisson Blu Hotel Altstadt, Salzburg
- Best time to explore:Â September-October
5. Bregenz
Bregenz, which is on the shores of Lake Constance, is the epitome of Swiss beauty. As the capital of Vorarlberg, Bregenzer Festspiele has museums, events, and a stage that floats on the water. The Festspielhaus is a beautiful building that looks out over the lake. Walk through Bregenz’s old centre, which includes St. Martin’s Tower, and go up the Pfanderbahn to get a view of the city and lake. The Bregenzerwald in Vorarlberg is a beautiful area with quiet valleys, limestone peaks, and cute towns like Schwarzenberg on the KaseStrasse (cheese road). Visit the Angelika Kauffmann Museum and enjoy tasty treats from the area at Gasthof Hirschen. One of the most beautiful places in Austria, Bregenz, has a secret beauty waiting for you.
Discover How to reach:
- By air: St. Gallen–Altenrhein Airport is the nearest airport, 23.3 km away
- Best places to stay:Â Seehotel Am Kaiserstrand, Alpenloge Design Hotel
- Best time to explore:Â July-August
6. Alpbach
Alpbach is a village in western Austria that is often called the most beautiful town in the country. Aspen hills surround it, making it a popular spot for mountain tourists. The rustic charm of its many Tyrolean chalets stands in contrast to its role as a political and business hub. Its surroundings are peaceful for people who like winter sports and hiking. At the Jausenstation Zottahof, you can enjoy delicious Tyrolean food while taking in views of the mountains. Rattenberg is Austria’s smallest town, but it’s worth taking a diversion to see its bright houses, long history of making glass and beautiful views of the river. This is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places in Tyrol, Austria. It is known for its wooden farmhouses and traditional crafts.
Discover How to reach:
- By air:Â Innsbruck Airport is the nearest airport, 57.3 km away
- Best places to stay: Hotel Die Alpabacherin, Alpabacherhof – Mountain & Spa Resort
- Best time to explore:Â June-August
7. Hallstatt
This Austrian town, Hallstatt, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a beautiful place to visit. The Baroque style of its buildings shows that it has a rich history that goes back to making salt. Visit the salt lake in the Hornerwerk tunnel or the Dachstein Caves, a beautiful underground network. A viewing platform called “5 Fingers” hangs precariously over an Alpine drop, offering stunning views. A Skywalk with great views can be found in the oldest salt mine in Hallstatt, which is another attraction. There’s something romantic about Schloss Ort, a castle by a lake. One of the most beautiful places in Austria, Hallstatt stands out among the beautiful lakes in the Salzkammergut. They promise an amazing scenic experience.
Discover How to reach:
- By air:Â Salzburg Airport is the nearest airport, 78.2 km away
- Best places to stay:Â Dormio Resort Obertraun, Hubertus Geniesserhotel Filzmoos
- Best time to explore:Â March to November
Conclusion:
As you envision your future travels, consider the alpine allure of Innsbruck, the picturesque vineyards of the Wachau Valley, and the dramatic vistas along the Grossglockner Alpine Road. The Austrian Lake District, with its serene lakeside retreats, provides a tranquil escape for those seeking relaxation amidst nature’s embrace.
Austria’s beauty lies not only in its architecture and landscapes but in the warmth of its people, the melodies of its classical music, and the rich tapestry of its history. Whether you choose to explore the cultural treasures of cities or immerse yourself in the alpine wilderness, each destination promises an unforgettable experience.
FAQ’s
Q1: What are the 7 most beautiful places to visit in Austria?
This list includes Vienna, Salzburg, Hallstatt, Innsbruck, the Wachau Valley, the Grossglockner Alpine Road, and the Austrian Lake District.
Q2: What makes Vienna a beautiful destination?
Vienna, which is the capital of Austria, is known for its beautiful imperial building, diverse culture, and long history of classical music. The city is beautiful because it has grand palaces, historic places, and a lively atmosphere.
Q3: Why is Salzburg included in the list of beautiful places in Austria?
Salzburg is a beautiful place to visit because of its baroque building, the fact that Mozart was born there, and the beautiful Austrian Alps in the background. The historical and cultural importance of the city is shown by the fact that its Old Town is on the UNESCO list.
