Exploring Austria: Activities And Adventures Await!

Austria is a country of stunning natural beauty, with towering mountains, dramatic Alpine summits, and picturesque villages. It is famous for its winter sports, with extensive ski areas and modern cable cars, but there are also plenty of activities to enjoy during the summer months when the valleys are covered in wildflowers.

Austria's cities are rich in culture and history, with beautiful Baroque architecture, impressive castles, and elegant palaces. Vienna, the nation's capital, is particularly noteworthy for its stunning buildings, including the imperial Hofburg Palace and the Schönbrunn Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beyond its cities, Austria offers a wealth of outdoor activities, including hiking, cycling, kayaking, and climbing. The country is home to countless lakes, rivers, and waterfalls, providing ample opportunities for swimming, boating, and other water sports.

For those seeking a more relaxed vacation, Austria has numerous thermal springs and spas, as well as charming Christmas markets and traditional cafes.

- Tour Vienna's palaces, including the Hofburg Palace and Schönbrunn Palace.

- Go skiing at St. Anton am Arlberg, one of the country's most popular ski resorts.

- Take a selfie at Hallstatt, a picturesque village surrounded by Alpine mountains and a lake.

- Follow in Mozart's footsteps in Salzburg, his birthplace, and visit the 12th-century family home that is now a museum.

- Walk the snowy streets of Innsbruck, a charming city surrounded by high mountains.

- Climb the Grossglockner, Austria's highest mountain.

- Relax and rejuvenate at the Bad Gastein Thermal Springs, a favourite getaway of Empress Elisabeth.

- Lace up your hiking boots in Tirol, which offers over 24,000 kilometers of marked trails.

- Catch a show at the Spanish Riding School, the oldest classical riding school in the world.

- Go boating on the Zell am See Lake, one of the most visited lakes in Austria.

- Try winter sports on Austria's highest glacier, the Pitztal Glacier.

Explore Austria's Cities

Austria is home to some of the most stunning Baroque architecture in Europe, in the form of palaces and castles. The country is also known for its winter sports, with countless ski resorts and cable cars. However, there is plenty to do in the summer, too, when the valleys are covered in wildflowers and the cities come alive with events and activities. Here is a list of cities to explore in Austria:

Vienna

Vienna is home to stunning Baroque architecture, opulent buildings, and heavily decorated monuments. The city's palaces are particularly breathtaking. The imperial Hofburg Palace, originally built in the 13th century, is one of Vienna's most photographed landmarks. It now serves as the official residence of Austria's president. Schönbrunn Palace is another must-see. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is built in the Rococo style and holds 1,441 rooms, many of which can be toured.

Vienna is also a great city for museum lovers. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, or the Museum of Art History, is home to amazing paintings by famous artists like Rembrandt, Raphael, Caravaggio, and Velázquez. The Albertina is another museum worth visiting, housing important artworks by Da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo.

For those looking for a more active visit, Vienna has plenty of options. The Danube Cycle Path, Europe's most popular cycling path, runs through the city. There is also the Wiener Eislauf-Verein, a skating site, and the Prater Park, a small amusement park with the historic Riesenrad ferris wheel at its centre.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a charming city set in a valley surrounded by high mountains. It is the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and his 12th-century family home is now a museum. The city also boasts impressive Baroque architecture, including the Salzburger Dom (cathedral), which houses some impressive historical organs.

For stunning views over the city, visit the Hohensalzburg Fortress, which towers above Salzburg atop a hill. The fortress is also home to ornately decorated rooms and medieval torture tools.

Salzburg is also a great base for exploring some of Austria's natural wonders, such as the Eisriesenwelt ice cave and the Dachstein Giant Ice Cave.

Innsbruck

Innsbruck is another beautiful city set in a valley surrounded by mountains. The city's Olympic Bobsleigh, Luge, and Skeleton Track offers a unique view of the city as you speed down the mountain.

Innsbruck also has one of the most charming Christmas markets in Austria, surrounded by medieval buildings and the gilded alcove balcony known as the Golden Roof.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Innsbruck offers plenty of opportunities for skiing and hiking. The surrounding ski slopes provide a chance to be active in the crisp Alpine air.

Hallstatt

Hallstatt is a picturesque alpine village set alongside a lake in the Alps. The town is made up of colourful buildings lining narrow alleyways, with houses built up the side of the mountain. During the summer, you can take boats out on the lake or go for a swim. There is also a centuries-old salt mine to explore, as well as ice caves just outside the town.

Bregenz

Bregenz is a small but unique town located on the shore of Lake Constance, bordering Germany and Switzerland. It is famous for its Bregenzer Festspiele, a summer music festival that takes place on a floating lake stage.

Try Austrian Food and Drink

Austria is known for its delicious food and drinks, with a variety of options to satisfy any craving. Here are some Austrian specialties you should try:

Cheese and Meat

Austria is known for its exquisite cheeses, with aromatic alpine varieties that are perfect all year round. Try the Vorarlberger Alpkäse, a hard cheese rich in herb flavours, often paired with cured meats. If you're visiting Styria in southern Austria, indulge in their special soups and stews, like the pumpkin soup served with pumpkin seed oil. For a true mountain favourite, try the smoked southern Austrian bacon, usually served on charcuterie and cheese platters after a hike.

Coffee and Cake

Viennese coffee house culture is so renowned that it is recognised by UNESCO. Be sure to take part in the traditional afternoon kaffee und kuchen (coffee and cake) break. Sample the Sachertorte, a rich chocolate cake, and the Mozart torte, a chocolate, pistachio, and nougat cake named after the famous composer. If you're craving something savoury, try Liptauer, a spicy cheese spread eaten on a slice of bread.

Main Courses

Austria has a variety of hearty dishes to fill you up. Try the Tafelspitz, a classic Austrian dish of boiled beef served in broth with apple, horseradish, and chives sauce. For something more casual, grab a Wurstsemmel, a sliced bread roll containing ham, sausage, or Leberkäse, a type of corned beef loaf. If you're craving pasta, go for the Kaspressknödel, traditional Austrian cheese dumplings, or the Cheese Ravioli from Carinthia.

Desserts

Apple strudel, or Apfelstrudel, is a staple on most restaurant and coffee house menus. For something more unique, try Kaiserschmarrn, soft, fluffy pancakes ripped into bite-sized pieces and slightly roasted in a pan, served with a fruit compote. If you're visiting Salzburg, try the "Salzburger Nocken", a meringue-like dessert.

Drinks

Austria has a variety of drinks to quench your thirst. Try the national drink, Almdudler, a soft drink based on mountain herbs. For something stronger, there's beer, which is typically a pale lager, or Märzen. If you're a wine drinker, sample the Grüner Veltliner, one of Austria's most notable white wines, or try a glass of Sturm, semi-fermented grape juice. Finally, finish your meal with a schnapps, a fruit brandy that can be made from apricots, rowanberries, gentiana roots, herbs, and even flowers.

Visit a Museum

Austria is home to a plethora of museums, ranging from art and history to natural history and special interest. Here is a detailed guide to visiting museums in Austria:

The Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna:

The Kunsthistorisches Museum, located in Vienna, is one of the world's foremost museums. It houses an extensive collection of art spanning five millennia, from Ancient Egypt to modern times. The museum boasts major works by renowned artists such as Dürer, Raphael, Titian, and Velázquez. Additionally, it is home to the largest collection of Bruegel paintings in the world. The Kunstkammer Vienna, featuring Benvenuto Cellini's famous Saliera, enhances the museum's allure. The ticket price, starting at $20, includes access to the collections at the Neue Burg, where you can explore musical instruments and gain insights into the chivalrous lifestyle of knights.

The Belvedere in Vienna:

The Belvedere, a stunning Baroque landmark in Vienna, comprises the Upper and Lower Belvedere and an extensive garden. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and houses the largest collection of Austrian art, including works from the Middle Ages to the present day. The museum showcases international artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Max Beckmann. However, the highlight of the Belvedere is its collection of Gustav Klimt's paintings, featuring iconic pieces like "The Kiss" and "Judith."

The Albertina:

The Albertina, located in the heart of Vienna, boasts one of the most significant graphic art collections globally. It houses masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Michelangelo, Dürer, and Rembrandt. The Batliner Collection, "From Monet to Picasso," is a permanent exhibition showcasing modern art masters. Additionally, the Habsburg Historic Staterooms provide a glimpse into imperial glamour.

The Natural History Museum (Naturhistorisches Museum):

The Natural History Museum in Vienna is a fascinating destination, featuring a wide range of exhibits. The highlights include an extensive collection of dinosaur skeletons, meteorites, and a large display of insects from around the world.

The Leopold Museum:

The Leopold Museum in Vienna is a must-visit destination for art lovers, especially those interested in the turn of the century. The museum showcases the works of Gustav Klimt, Egon Schiele, Oskar Kokoschka, Koloman Moser, and Gerstl.

The Third Man Museum:

The Third Man Museum in Vienna is a unique attraction for classic movie lovers, Orson Welles fans, and World War II historians.

The Imperial Palace (Hofburg):

The Imperial Palace, or Hofburg, in Vienna, houses nine museums dedicated to the grand history of the imperial court. The Imperial Apartments, with their original furnishings and decorations, the Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection provide a glimpse into the traditions and everyday life of the Habsburg empire.

The MAK - Austrian Museum of Applied Arts/Contemporary Art:

The MAK in Vienna focuses on applied arts, design, architecture, and contemporary art. It offers exhibitions, workshops, talks, and parties that bring fresh perspectives to the art world.

The Swarovski Kristallwelten in Wattens:

The Swarovski Kristallwelten, created by André Heller for Swarovski's centenary, is a giant crystal world filled with sparkling creations.

The Fortress Hohensalzburg in Salzburg:

The Fortress Hohensalzburg, a 900-year-old fortress, is the largest fully preserved castle complex in Europe. It overlooks the old town of Salzburg and houses an interesting museum with helpful signs guiding visitors through the enormous fortress.

The DomQuartier Salzburg:

The DomQuartier Salzburg showcases European paintings from the 16th to 19th centuries across 11 halls of the former Prince-Archbishop's residence.

These museums offer a glimpse into Austria's rich history, art, and culture, providing educational and inspirational experiences for visitors.

Go Hiking

Austria is a hiker's paradise, with its majestic Alps, rolling hills, and crystal-clear mountain lakes. The country's well-maintained hiking trails offer a diverse range of experiences, catering to hikers of all levels of expertise.

When to Go

Hiking in Austria is typically done during the summer and autumn seasons. However, winter hiking is also an option, with the opportunity to hear the fresh snow crunching beneath your feet and breathe in the crisp mountain air. May is possible but may be tricky due to snow at higher altitudes, and many trails don't open until June or July.

Where to Go

Austria has numerous hiking trails to choose from, with varying levels of difficulty. Here are some popular options:

• Krimmler Waterfall in Hohe Tauern National Park: This 4.8-mile hike takes you to Europe's largest waterfalls, with a drop of 380 meters.
• Mountain Hike from Friesenberghaus to Olpererhütte in Zillertal Alps High Mountain Nature Park: A challenging 8.6-mile hike with steep, rocky sections, offering fantastic views of the reservoir and surrounding Alps.
• Hallstatt Valley Hike in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut: An easy 3.3-mile hike that can be enjoyed by anyone, offering scenic beauty throughout the year.
• Vienna City Trail and Kahlenberg: One of the few high-altitude hikes in Vienna, offering panoramic views of the city and, on clear days, even the Schneeberg mountain.
• Vorderer Gosausee in Upper Austria's Salzkammergut: A 4.9-mile circular hike around Lake Gosau, surrounded by majestic mountains and offering a view of the Dachstein Glacier.
• Wiener Stadtwanderweg 1 in Döbling, Vienna: A 6.8-mile official circular walk of the city, taking in various highlights, including the Kahlenberg viewpoint and the Church of St. Joseph.
• Von Sankt Wolfgang im Salzkammergut auf den Schafberg: A challenging 8.4-mile hike up the Schafberg mountain, rewarding hikers with magnificent views of several lakes, including Attersee, Mondsee, and Wolfgangsee.
• Hungerburg to Hafelekarspitze in Innsbruck, Tyrol: A panoramic 8.3-mile hike with a steep descent; the use of the Nordkette cable car is recommended for the way down.

Where to Stay

When planning a hiking trip in Austria, you have a few options for accommodation:

• Mountain Huts: Rustic mountain huts offer a cosy atmosphere and regional specialties served by warm and welcoming hosts. Staying in these huts turns your hike into a culinary adventure as well as a scenic one.
• Salzburg: A well-developed public transportation network makes it possible to stay in the city and commute to various trailheads. This option is ideal if you want to balance hiking with cultural activities in the city.
• Small Villages: Staying in smaller villages like Bischofshofen or Gosau can provide a more local experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the farming culture.

Tips

• Consider downloading the Bergfex app, which provides a map of the mountains and hiking trails in German.
• If you plan to hike at higher altitudes (over 2000m) in May, ensure you have the proper gear, including Grödel (microspikes). Be prepared to turn back if conditions become too challenging.
• For a unique experience, consider staying in a remote mountain hut. Call ahead or make a reservation, especially if you're travelling in a group.

With its stunning natural landscapes, diverse trails, and welcoming hospitality, Austria is an ideal destination for hikers seeking adventure and revitalisation in the great outdoors.

Go Skiing

Austria is a great destination for skiing, with extensive ski areas, modern cable cars, perfectly groomed pistes, and breathtaking mountains.

When to Go Skiing in Austria

The best time to go skiing in Austria depends on what you are looking for. If you want a quiet slope experience, consider going during a time when tourism bookings are typically lower, such as the last week of January.

If you are looking for a guarantee of snow, February to March is the prime winter season, with late January also offering solid snow conditions. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, it is recommended to avoid the English schools' half-term week.

For those seeking a lively and festive atmosphere, Christmas and New Year in Austrian ski resorts are fantastic. The resort villages offer traditional alpine charm, and there are plenty of classic holiday activities and delicious Austrian cuisine to enjoy.

Where to Go Skiing in Austria

There are numerous ski resorts in Austria to choose from, each offering its own unique experience. Here are some popular options:

• Obergurgl: This resort is an excellent choice for families, with great ski schools and childcare options. It offers a mixture of accommodation near the slopes and excellent snow conditions, with 110km of slopes to explore.
• Arlberg ski area: One of the snowiest destinations in Europe, Arlberg is perfect for those seeking a range of runs for all abilities. It also offers fantastic luxury ski accommodation options and great links between St. Anton, Lech, St. Christoph, Stuben, Warth-Schröcken, and Zürs.
• SkiWelt ski area: As the second-largest ski area in Austria, SkiWelt is family-friendly and boasts 284km of slopes with excellent links between Söll, Ellmau, and Westendorf. Each village has its own charm and excellent accommodation options.
• Mayrhofen: This resort is ideal for March skiing, with high-altitude slopes up to 3,250m. With a full lift pass, you can access 204km of slopes in the heart of the Zillertal ski area and easily access nearby resorts such as Fügen, Kaltenbach, Zell am Ziller, and the Hintertux Glacier.
• Sölden: As one of the highest-altitude ski resorts in Austria, Sölden offers glacier skiing and is known for having the longest season in the country. It is a great choice for April skiing, with a fun party atmosphere, end-of-season music events, and festivals.

Other Winter Activities

In addition to skiing, Austria offers a range of other winter activities to enjoy. You can go cross-country skiing, snowshoe hiking, winter hiking, ice skating, tobogganing, or even try ice bathing in a frozen lake. For a romantic or action-packed adventure, there are horse-drawn sleigh rides and dogsledding options available.

Frequently asked questions