Why Austria belongs on your list
Austria packs imperial cities, dramatic Alps and storybook lakes into a compact country you can cross in a few hours. Here are the experiences worth planning a trip around.
Schonbrunn Palace, Vienna
The Habsburgs' summer residence has 1,441 rooms and vast Baroque gardens. Book the Grand Tour (around 32 euros) and climb to the Gloriette for a sweeping view over the capital.
Vienna's historic centre
Walk from St. Stephen's Cathedral down the Graben to the Hofburg. Pair it with a slice of Sachertorte and a melange coffee at a classic Kaffeehaus like Cafe Central.
Salzburg old town
Mozart's birthplace is a UNESCO-listed maze of squares and churches, crowned by Hohensalzburg Fortress. Sound of Music fans can tour the real filming locations.
Hallstatt
This tiny lakeside village wedged between mountains and the Hallstatter See is one of Europe's most photographed spots. Visit early or stay overnight to beat the day-trip crowds.
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road
A 48-kilometre toll road (about 41 euros per car) of 36 hairpin bends climbing past glaciers to Austria's highest peak. Open roughly May to October.
Innsbruck and the Nordkette
Ride the funicular and cable cars from the old town straight up to 2,256 metres for instant Alpine scenery, then explore the Golden Roof and imperial palace below.
Wachau Valley
Cruise or cycle the Danube between Melk and Krems, passing terraced vineyards, apricot orchards and the golden Melk Abbey perched above the river.
Eisriesenwelt ice caves
Near Werfen lies the world's largest ice cave, a frozen wonderland reached by cable car and lantern-lit walkways. Bring warm layers even in summer.
Lake Worthersee, Carinthia
Austria's warmest large lake is perfect in summer for swimming, sailing and lakeside towns like Velden and Portschach.
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