Explore Austria's Captivating Cities: A Traveler's Guide

Austria is a country of stunning natural beauty, from its snow-capped mountains to its lakes and broad rivers. But it's not just the natural world that dazzles in Austria – its cities are a feast for the eyes, too. From grand imperial palaces to medieval old towns, there's a wealth of architectural styles to admire. Here's a look at some of the must-see cities in Austria.

Vienna: Ornate Baroque architecture, palaces, museums, and world-class food

Vienna is a must-see city in Austria, boasting ornate Baroque architecture, stunning palaces, world-class museums, and delicious food.

Ornate Baroque Architecture

Vienna is home to beautiful Baroque architecture, which can be seen in many of the city's palaces, townhouses, and churches. One of the most notable examples is the Belvedere Palace, which dates back to the late Baroque period and houses exceptional art. The Upper Belvedere, designed by Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt in 1723, features magnificent art pieces, including works by Gustav Klimt, Peter Paul Rubens, and Diego Velázquez. The Lower Belvedere, the original residence of Prince Eugene, showcases Austrian art from the medieval period.

Another impressive Baroque structure is the Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former summer residence of the Habsburgs Empire. This Baroque palace is surrounded by lush gardens, fountains, and sculptures, and offers a glimpse into the lavish lifestyle of the Viennese nobility.

Other examples of Baroque architecture in Vienna include the Peterskirche, with its extraordinary interior and classic Baroque elements, and the Annakirche, which underwent a remarkable Baroque transformation in the 1700s.

Palaces

In addition to the Belvedere and Schönbrunn Palaces, Vienna is home to several other stunning palaces. The Hofburg Palace, located in the Old Town, was the residence of the Habsburgs for 600 years. It now houses several museums, including the Sisi Museum, dedicated to the life of Empress Elisabeth, the Imperial Apartments, and the Silver Collection. The Hofburg Palace also features a Chapel and the famous Spanish Riding School, the only institution in the world that still practices classic equestrian skills.

The Liechtenstein Palace, located in the heart of Vienna, is a Baroque-style palace that served as the residence of the Liechtenstein family in the 17th century. It boasts a grand hall with a beautiful ceiling painted by Andre Pozzo and a gallery of Baroque masterpieces by artists such as Peter Paul Rubens, Anthony van Dyck, and Rembrandt van Rijn.

Museums

Vienna's museums are among the best in the world, showcasing important artefacts and hosting top international exhibitions. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, or KHM, is renowned for its galleries of old master paintings, including the world's largest Bruegel collection. The museum also houses the Kunstkammer chamber of wonders, the Egyptian collection, and Greek and Roman antiquities.

The Albertina is another notable museum, with a vast art collection that includes works by Monet, Picasso, Cézanne, and Chagall. The Belvedere group, with its three locations, showcases everything from medieval to contemporary art, including a world-leading collection of Klimt paintings.

The MuseumsQuartier, or MQ, is a centre for contemporary culture, featuring exhibition spaces, cafes, bars, shops, and several museums, including the Leopold Museum and the museum of modern art (mumok).

World-Class Food

When it comes to food, Vienna offers a variety of culinary experiences. The city has numerous cooking classes that teach traditional Viennese dishes, such as schnitzel and strudel. There are also chocolate workshops, wine tours and tastings, and beer tastings to enjoy. Vienna is also known for its fine dining, with a range of restaurants serving local specialties and gourmet cuisine.

Salzburg: Charming Old Town, Mozart's birthplace, and musical heritage

Salzburg is a charming Austrian city that is a must-see for anyone visiting the country. With a population of only 150,000, Salzburg is Austria's fourth-largest city and is known for its musical heritage, stunning architecture, and picturesque setting. The city is situated on the Salzach River, which translates to Salt River, reflecting the city's historical importance in the transportation of salt.

Salzburg's Old Town, a well-preserved area filled with elegant buildings, cobblestone streets, and Baroque churches, is a delight to explore on foot. The city's compact Old Town sits between the Salzach River and the Monchsberg mountain, upon which the Hohensalzburg Fortress stands watch. This dramatic hilltop castle fortress has overlooked Salzburg for over a thousand years and is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. The fortress offers incredible views, pleasant cafes, and museums showcasing medieval history.

Salzburg is also known for its musical heritage, particularly its association with Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. Mozart was born in Salzburg in 1756 and lived in the city for the first 25 years of his life. Visitors can explore Mozart's birthplace, the "Hagenauer Haus", located on Getreidegasse, which is now a museum dedicated to the composer. The museum features original certificates, letters, memorabilia, portraits, and historical instruments, including Mozart's own violin and clavichord.

In addition to Mozart's Birthplace, music enthusiasts can also visit the Wohnhaus, Mozart's residence after his family moved from the Hagenauer Haus in 1773. The city also offers classical music concerts, often featuring Mozart's works, in various venues such as the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the Mirabell Palace, and the Stiftskeller St. Peter restaurant.

Salzburg's charming Old Town, musical heritage, and significance as Mozart's birthplace make it a must-see destination in Austria. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and cultural offerings, Salzburg is sure to enchant its visitors.

Graz: Culinary delights, medieval Old Town, and modern art

Graz, the capital of the Austrian state of Styria, is a must-visit for foodies, history buffs and art enthusiasts. Known as Austria's culinary capital, Graz offers everything from traditional Austrian dishes to innovative culinary creations. The city is also home to a well-preserved medieval Old Town and several notable art museums.

Culinary Delights

Graz has something for everyone when it comes to food. From gourmet restaurants to speciality shops, foodies will be spoilt for choice. Be sure to try some of the local specialities, such as runner bean salad (Käferbohnensalat) and Brettljause, a selection of meats, cheeses, pickles and salads served on a wooden board.

For traditional Austrian fare, head to Gasthaus Glöcklbräu in the heart of the Old Town, where you can sample dishes like Backhendl (deep-fried chicken) and Käsespätzle (mac 'n' cheese with crispy onions). Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options, with Graz boasting the highest number of vegan restaurants per capita in the country.

If you're looking for a unique dining experience, why not visit a Buschenschank? These small wineries serve their own wine and homegrown food, presented on a wooden platter as Brettljause. Buschenschank Dokter, a family-owned winery and tavern surrounded by vineyards and rolling hills, is a great choice.

Medieval Old Town

Graz's historic centre, or Altstadt, is one of the best-preserved in Central Europe. In 1999, it was added to the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites, with Eggenberg Palace included in the designation in 2010. The Old Town is full of charming architecture, from the Gothic Castle (Burg) to the Painted House (Gemaltes Haus) in Herrengasse 3, completely covered in frescos.

The Castle Hill (Schlossberg) is a dominant feature of the cityscape, offering panoramic views of the red-tiled roofs of the Old Town and the surrounding area. At the top of the hill sits the Clock Tower (Uhrturm), a symbol of Graz. Other notable sights in the Old Town include the Town Hall (Rathaus), the New Gallery (Neue Galerie), the Opera House (Opernhaus) and the Cathedral (Dom).

Modern Art

Graz is also a hub for modern and contemporary art, with several notable museums and galleries. The Graz Museum of Contemporary Art (Kunsthaus Graz) is a striking example of modern architecture and a must-visit for art lovers. The "Friendly Alien", as it's nicknamed, hosts exhibitions of international contemporary art.

The New Gallery (Neue Galerie) is another important art museum, showcasing visual arts from the 19th and 20th centuries. For ancient and medieval art, head to the Universalmuseum Joanneum, which encompasses 20 museums at 14 locations. Here, you can explore everything from archaeological gems to ancient armoury and fine art from the High Middle Ages.

Innsbruck: Surrounded by the Alps, with Gothic and Baroque architecture

Innsbruck is a picturesque city nestled in the Austrian Alps. Surrounded by enormous, snow-capped mountains, it is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. The city is full of Gothic and Baroque architecture, with the Old Town feeling like a step back in time. Here are some highlights of Innsbruck:

The Golden Roof

The Golden Roof, or Goldenes Dachl, is a famous landmark in Innsbruck's Old Town. Built by Emperor Maximilian I, it is adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles that shine over Herzog-Friedrich-Strasse. The Golden Roof is a symbol of the city's rich history and was constructed in the 1500s.

Ambras Castle

Ambras Castle is a Renaissance castle with beautiful gardens and a rich collection of art and historical artefacts. The castle boasts detailed ceilings and paintings by renowned artists such as Rubens, Van Dyck, and Velázquez. It is a must-visit destination to learn about the region's history and admire its artistic treasures.

Hofburg Palace

Hofburg Palace, built in the 1400s, is a magnificent Baroque palace that once served as the residence of the Habsburgs. Thanks to Maria Theresa, the palace showcases a grand Baroque style. It is surrounded by the beautiful Court Garden and Theatre, adding to its grandeur.

The Gothic Ottoburg Tower

The Gothic Ottoburg tower stands tall among Innsbruck's lively streets. It was once part of the old city walls and now serves as a reminder of the city's medieval past.

Nordkette Cable Car

Innsbruck offers a unique experience with its cable car system. The Nordkette Cable Car takes visitors straight from the city centre up to the Nordkette Mountains, where they can enjoy breathtaking views and hiking opportunities. The journey provides a stunning perspective of the surrounding Alpine landscape.

Imperial Court Church

The Imperial Court Church, or Hofkirche, is a striking structure featuring the imposing cenotaph of Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian I. The church is guarded by 28 larger-than-life bronze statues, each standing over 10 feet tall. It is a testament to the city's religious and historical significance.

Innsbruck is a charming city that seamlessly blends its rich history with modern attractions. Its location in the heart of the Alps makes it a must-see destination for those seeking natural beauty and cultural exploration.

Hallstatt: Picturesque town on a lake, with colourful houses and a church spire

The town of Hallstatt is nestled in the Salzkammergut region of Austria, sitting pretty on the shores of Lake Hallstatt. Surrounded by towering mountains and lush greenery, it is no wonder that this idyllic town has become a favourite destination for travellers from all over the world. Its colourful houses, church spire and breathtaking scenery make it one of the most picturesque towns in Austria, and even the world.

Hallstatt is a small town with a rich history. The town's salt mines, which date back an incredible 7,000 years, have played a significant role in its development and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the mines, take in the stunning 'world heritage view' from the skywalk viewing platform, and delve into the fascinating history of the region.

Beyond the mines, Hallstatt offers a wealth of natural beauty and outdoor activities. A boat ride on the lake is the perfect way to escape the crowds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. For the adventurous, a hike up to the Five Fingers Viewing Platform will reward you with adrenaline-pumping views of the region. Swimming in the lake and hiking the surrounding trails are also popular activities, offering the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning landscape.

The town itself is a charming collection of colourful houses, with the church spire rising above them. The architecture, while varied, is sure to delight anyone with an interest in design and history. The local cuisine is also worth indulging in, with restaurants and cafes serving up delicious Austrian specialities and offering panoramic views of the lake and mountains.

Hallstatt truly is a must-see destination in Austria, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage and outdoor adventures. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, Hallstatt is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

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