Austria's Most Scenic Destinations Unveiled

Austria is a country of stunning natural beauty, from its majestic mountains to its crystal-clear lakes. The country's diverse and jaw-dropping scenery inspires exploration, with countless ways to get close to nature, from panoramic cable cars to world-class ski slopes.

Every year, Austrians vote for their most beautiful places on a popular TV programme, 9 Plätze – 9 Schätze (9 Places – 9 Treasures). Here are some of the winners and other must-see scenic spots in Austria:

- Landskron Castle, Carinthia: A Renaissance castle that is one of the region's landmarks, featuring a gourmet restaurant and a bird of prey show.

- Friedenskircherl on the Stoderzinken, Styria: The Little Church of Peace was built 120 years ago at 1,898 metres above sea level and is dedicated to people of all faiths.

- Lake Lünersee, Vorarlberg: A natural mountain lake at 1,970 metres above sea level, offering activities such as hiking, climbing, and fishing.

- Hallstatt: A picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Sazkammergut lake region, framed by mountains and glassy water.

- Kaisertal Valley, Tirol: A unique valley that, until 2008, could only be reached on foot, claiming the title of Austria's last inhabited valley without a road link.

- Lake Formarin and the Rote Wand (Red Wall), Vorarlberg: The strikingly blue Formarin Lake is set against the rugged Red Wall mountain, creating a beautiful contrast.

- Grüner See (Green Lake), Styria: This lake has crystal-clear waters with an emerald shimmer, and in winter, it almost disappears, filling back up during snowmelt in spring.

- Krimml Waterfalls, Hohe Tauern National Park: The tallest waterfalls in Central Europe, located in one of the largest nature reserves in the Alps, with 266 mountains and about 250 glaciers.

- Eisreisenwelt, the world's largest ice cave system: Discovered in 1879, this cave system features majestic natural ice sculptures and formations known as the Ice Giants.

- Salzburg: The birthplace of Mozart, this magnificent historic city features Baroque churches, an imposing castle, and horse-drawn carriages, creating a fairy-tale atmosphere.

- Vienna: The Austrian capital appeals to history buffs and music lovers with its mix of architectural grandeur and cosmopolitanism. Must-see sights include the Belvedere Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, and St. Stephen's Cathedral.

Vienna: A blend of architectural grandeur and cosmopolitanism

Vienna, Austria's illustrious capital, is a melting pot of architectural grandeur and cosmopolitan flair. The city stands as a living testament to architectural evolution, boasting a rich tapestry of styles that span centuries. From the opulent Baroque palaces of the past to the innovative designs of the present, Vienna's eventful history is etched into its architectural landscape.

A City of Musical Grandeur

Nicknamed the "City of Music", Vienna has a deep connection with the arts, particularly classical music. The Vienna Philharmonic, performing at the State Opera House, embodies the city's rich musical heritage. The grandeur of Vienna's architectural masterpieces is exemplified by landmarks such as the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, the Hofburg, the Rathaus, and Belvedere Palace. These opulent structures showcase the city's imperial past and elegant aesthetic.

Exploring Vienna's Architectural Evolution

Vienna's architectural journey began with the Gothic churches and Baroque palaces of the medieval and Renaissance periods. The Ringstraße, a spectacular boulevard separating the downtown area from the outer districts, is a prime example of historicist architecture from the 19th century. While these neo-Gothic, neo-Renaissance, and neo-Baroque buildings may not be in vogue today, the Ringstraße remains a crown jewel of Vienna, cherished by locals and tourists alike.

Innovators and Visionaries

Vienna witnessed a departure from historicist styles with the emergence of Viennese Art Nouveau around 1900. Architects like Otto Wagner, Joseph Maria Olbrich, and Josef Hoffmann revolutionised the cityscape. Soon, even their Art Nouveau creations were eclipsed by the modern architecture of visionaries like Adolf Loos, whose work challenged conventional trends. Loos' most famous building, the Looshaus, stands as a testament to his innovative approach.

Social Housing and Urban Planning

Vienna is internationally renowned for its extensive social housing system, with approximately a quarter of the population residing in social housing units. The "Red Vienna" period of the 1920s and 1930s laid the foundation for this system, addressing the critical need for worker housing. The Karl-Marx-Hof, a monumental socialist utopia, stands as a symbol of this era, offering a unique blend of functionality and communal spaces.

Contemporary Marvels

In recent decades, Vienna has witnessed the development of new urban areas, such as Nordbahnviertel, Sonnwendviertel, and Aspern Seestadt, to accommodate its growing population. These new districts showcase successful urban planning, integrating green spaces, commercial hubs, and residential areas. Additionally, the city has seen the construction of modern landmarks, such as the Library and Learning Centre at the University of Economics, designed by the renowned Zaha Hadid, adding a dynamic contrast to the historic landscape.

Cosmopolitan Charm

Beyond its architectural grandeur, Vienna exudes cosmopolitan charm. Ranked as one of the world's top cities for quality of life, Vienna attracts expats and tourists alike. The city offers a plethora of cultural experiences, from its exquisite cuisine to its vibrant nightlife. With its grand balls, Michelin-starred restaurants, and thriving art scene, Vienna embodies elegance and sophistication.

In conclusion, Vienna, Austria, presents a harmonious blend of architectural grandeur and cosmopolitanism. The city's rich history is reflected in its diverse architectural styles, and its vibrant cultural offerings cater to a wide range of interests. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or a connoisseur of the arts, Vienna is sure to captivate and inspire.

Graz: Old Town meets contemporary creativity

Graz, the capital of the Austrian state of Styria and the country's second-largest city, seamlessly blends the old with the new. Its historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts over 1,000 buildings from the Gothic era to the present day, including the Town Hall, the Opera House, the Cathedral, and the University of Graz. The city's design and planning in the 16th century were primarily controlled by Italian Renaissance architects and artists, and one of the most famous buildings from this period is the Landhaus, designed by Domenico dell'Allio and used as a governmental headquarters.

Graz is also known for its contemporary creativity, earning it the nickname the City of Design. The city is home to several universities and colleges, with a vibrant student scene that characterises city life. One of the most notable examples of Graz's contemporary architecture is the Kunsthaus Graz, a modern art museum known as the "Friendly Alien" due to its unique, futuristic design. The building, which resembles a giant blue balloon, sits between the Baroque rooftops of the historic centre and has become a symbol of the city.

For stunning views of the city, the Schlossberg is the ideal starting point. A climb of 260 steps or a ride on the Schlossberg funicular will take you from the Old Town to this popular viewpoint, where you can see the city's iconic clock tower. The Schlossberg is also home to the Schlossberg Hotel, one of the unique places to stay in Graz.

Graz's culinary scene is equally impressive, earning it the title of Austria's culinary capital. The city offers a wide selection of first-class restaurants, inns, and cosy cafes serving regional specialities and fresh produce from the farmers' market.

With its blend of historical and modern attractions, vibrant student life, and renowned culinary scene, Graz is a special city that offers art, culture, and innovation.

Salzburg: A fairytale city with horse carriages and Baroque churches

Salzburg is a fairytale city nestled in the Alps, with horse-drawn carriages and Baroque architecture. It is a magnificent historic city, sprawling along the Salzach River, with a stunning Alpine backdrop. The skyline is made all the more majestic by the medieval Hohensalzburg Fortress, which sits atop the Festungsberg hill, overlooking the city.

The city is renowned for its Baroque architecture, with many churches, houses, gardens, and fountains created or remodelled in this opulent style during the 17th and 18th centuries. The magnificent buildings from this era still shape the city's skyline today, giving it a romantic and enchanting feel.

One of the most iconic ways to experience the city is by horse-drawn carriage, allowing you to imagine yourself in a bygone era. Clip-clop through the historic old town, past beautiful Baroque churches on every corner, and relax in traditional beer gardens.

Salzburg is home to a remarkable 22 churches within its old town, each with its unique charm and history. Some of the most notable Baroque churches include the Kajetanerkirche (Cajetan Church), the Kollegienkirche (Collegiate Church), the Markuskirche (St. Mark's Church), and the Mirabell Palace and Garden. The University Church, designed by the famous Austrian architect Fischer von Erlach, is also a must-see, with its unique palace-like structure and lack of paintings or benches.

The city's cathedral, the Salzburg Cathedral, is particularly noteworthy. It was the first Baroque church in Austria and is considered a masterpiece, having remained mostly unmodified since its construction. The cathedral took 30 years to complete and boasts impressive architecture and intricate details.

In addition to its Baroque splendour, Salzburg offers a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. Music lovers will relish the opportunity to visit the birthplace of Mozart and explore his preserved instruments and musical scores. Fans of "The Sound of Music" can also visit several filming locations, including St. Peter's Monastery, the Cemetery, and Mirabell Palace and Gardens.

Innsbruck: The capital of Tyrol, surrounded by snowy mountains

Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is a city surrounded by snowy mountains and filled with winter sports enthusiasts. Located on the banks of the Inn River, it is known as the "Capital of the Alps" for good reason. The majestic Nordkette mountains surround the city and can be reached in 20 minutes by cable car. The city is also famous for its excellent winter sports facilities, having hosted the Winter Olympics twice.

Innsbruck is a beautiful blend of historic elegance and outdoor adventure. The medieval Old Town is filled with exquisite castles, churches, and palaces to explore, including St. Jacob Cathedral, the Hofburg (former imperial palace), and Ambras Castle. The city is also home to the iconic Golden Roof, a three-story balcony adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles.

For the best views of the city and the surrounding landscape, take the Nordkette cable car from the city centre to the top of Nordkette Mountain. The cable car ride offers breathtaking views of the Alps and provides easy access to skiing and hiking trails.

Innsbruck also has a vibrant cultural scene, with museums, galleries, and boutiques to explore in the Old Town. The city is known for its excellent dining options, such as the Oniriq Restaurant, which offers an innovative seven-course tasting menu.

When visiting Innsbruck, consider staying at the trendy Hotel Innsbruck, conveniently located just a 5-minute walk from the cable car station. The hotel features a modern contemporary design and a fabulous onsite spa.

Innsbruck is a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique blend of scenic beauty, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences. The surrounding snowy mountains provide a stunning backdrop for this charming city, making it one of the most scenic places in Austria.

Hallstatt: A postcard-perfect Alpine village

Nestled in the heart of the Salzkammergut lake region, Hallstatt is a tiny village surrounded by majestic mountains and the glassy waters of Lake Hallstätter. With a 5,000-year-old history, it is one of the oldest and most photographed places in Austria.

The village's colourful 16th-century chalets, cobbled alleyways, and quaint cafes exude a magical, fairy-tale-like charm. The best views of Hallstatt are from above, and a cable car ride from Obertraun across the lake offers a bird's-eye perspective of the village and the surrounding waters.

For a truly breathtaking experience, walk to the "5 Fingers" platform, which extends like an outstretched hand 1,640 feet above the lake. Here, you can soak in panoramic views of Styria's highest mountain, the fabled Dachstein, and the surrounding waters.

Hallstatt is also home to Salzwelten Hallstatt, the world's oldest salt mine, which can be reached by cable car. The ancient Salt Mine features a subterranean salt lake and impressive views from the Skywalk 'World Heritage View'.

The village is easily accessible, located about 70 kilometres southeast of Salzburg. Both summer and winter offer equally special experiences, with the village's beauty enhanced by a dusting of snow or the lush greenery of warmer months.

Hallstatt is a must-visit destination for those seeking to capture the essence of Austria's natural splendour and cultural heritage. Its postcard-perfect scenery and rich history make it a highlight of any trip to this captivating country.

Frequently asked questions