Exploring Austria: Family-Friendly Adventures Await!

what to do in austria with kids

Austria is a great destination for families, offering breathtaking landscapes, exciting activities, and warm hospitality. The country boasts a range of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and historical landmarks, making it a perfect place for kids to explore and learn. From theme parks and zoos to castles and salt mines, there is something for everyone in Austria. The country's sense of comfort and relaxed way of life make it an ideal destination for a family holiday.

Characteristics Values
Theme parks Tyrol's theme parks, Prater in Vienna, and the Giant Ferris Wheel
Zoos Schönbrunn Zoo, Haus des Meeres
Museums Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum), Kindermuseum (Children's Museum), Museum of Illusions, retro Gaming Museum
Castles Schönbrunn Palace, Fortress Hohensalzburg
Salt mines Hallstatt Salt Mine
Adventure trails Trebesing's Fairy Tale Mile, Grossglockner High Alpine Road
Suspension bridges Stubnerkogel suspension bridge, Trebesing's Dragon Gorge suspension bridge
Outdoor activities Hiking, cycling, skiing, swimming, gondola rides

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Explore the beautiful scenery of Tyrol, including its theme parks, lakes, and thermal baths

Tyrol is an Alpine region located mostly in Austria, with some parts in Italy. It boasts breathtaking scenery, including picturesque lakes, mountain ranges, and crystal-clear waters. Beyond its natural beauty, Tyrol offers a range of attractions, such as theme parks, thermal baths, and zoos, making it an ideal destination for families seeking adventure and relaxation.

One of the standout features of Tyrol is its collection of stunning lakes. Lake Achensee, nestled in the heart of the region, is a must-visit destination. The lake is surrounded by resorts such as Maurach, Pertisau, and Achenkirch, offering a range of activities. The Bärenkopf hike around Lake Achensee provides a challenging yet rewarding experience, treating hikers to breathtaking views of the region. Lake Haldensee, situated in the Tannheimer Valley, serves as the perfect spot for hiking and cycling enthusiasts, while also providing a tranquil setting for post-adventure relaxation. For those seeking serenity, Lake Berglsteinersee is a hidden gem nestled within the Voldöppbergs forest, accessible only on foot or by bike, offering pristine waters and a peaceful escape.

Tyrol is also home to the breathtaking Heiterwangersee lake, the twin lake of Plansee. These lakes are connected by a 300-meter canal and together form the second-largest lake in Tyrol. Heiterwangersee is an ideal spot for fishing and swimming, with refreshing waters and excellent water quality. The Badesee Kirchberg in the Kitzbühel Alps is another picturesque lake, boasting a tropical water temperature of 26°C during the summer. This lake also offers a range of attractions, including slides, a diving tower, trampolines, and a playground, making it a perfect family destination.

For those seeking thrills and amusement, Tyrol delivers with its unique theme parks. Most of these parks are located on mountains, such as the Hexenwasser Hochsöll, the Alpine Coaster Hochimst, and the Summer Funpark Fiss. While these parks may be smaller in scale compared to larger amusement parks, they offer a variety of attractions and experiences, including high ropes courses, labyrinths, diving towers, and roller coasters. The Wichtelpark in Sillian and the Ötzi village, with its Stone Age theme, are sure to delight visitors of all ages.

After a day of exploring, families can unwind and relax in the renowned thermal baths of Tyrol. The AQUA DOME Thermal Spa, located in the heart of Tyrol, offers a luxurious retreat with indoor and outdoor areas, boasting 12 basins and 7 saunas. The ultra-modern resort features impressive architecture and a private spa area, providing the perfect setting for peace and rejuvenation.

With its stunning natural scenery, exciting theme parks, refreshing lakes, and relaxing thermal baths, Tyrol, Austria, offers a diverse range of attractions for families seeking memorable experiences and quality time together.

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Visit the historic city of Vienna, home to amusement parks, museums, and the iconic Giant Ferris Wheel

Vienna, the historic capital of Austria, is a city full of fun and adventure for the whole family. From amusement parks to museums, there is plenty to keep the kids entertained and educated.

One of the must-do attractions in Vienna is the Giant Ferris Wheel, a landmark visible from afar on the city's skyline. The wheel has been a fixture of the city since 1897 and offers breathtaking views of the city. A circular trip on this iconic structure is an absolute must-see for visitors, providing a unique perspective of Vienna's beautiful architecture.

For those seeking more thrilling adventures, the Vienna Prater is the place to be. This amusement park is full of turbulent roller coasters, spooky ghost trains, and attractions that will challenge your senses. The Prater also hosts various dinner shows, combining breathtaking performances, delicious cuisine, and fantastic entertainment for all ages. The Wurstelprater area is accessible all year round and offers free admission, with attractions open daily from mid-March to the end of October.

Vienna is also home to numerous museums that cater to all interests and ages. The Naturhistorisches Museum is a fascinating place to learn about dinosaurs, with a moving and roaring allosaurus that will thrill children. The Chocolate Museum (SchokoMuseum) offers a sweet journey through the history of chocolate, with workshops, cinema, and chocolate fountains to indulge in. The ZOOM Children's Museum in the MuseumsQuartier encourages children to question, touch, explore, and play in a variety of interactive exhibitions.

Additionally, art lovers will enjoy the mumok – museum of modern art, which offers children's workshops and family-friendly studio courses. The MAK – Museum of Applied Arts provides a playful approach to art, handicrafts, and design with its MAK4Family and Mini MAK Tour programmes. The Albertina and the Belvedere also offer interactive tours, creative workshops, and art courses that are perfect for families.

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Discover the fairy-tale village of Hallstatt, with its ancient salt mines, mystical tunnels, and subterranean lake

Austria is a beautiful country with a plethora of attractions for families with kids. One such place is the fairy-tale village of Hallstatt, with its ancient salt mines, mystical tunnels, and subterranean lake. Hallstatt is a small town in the district of Gmunden, in the Austrian state of Upper Austria. It is known for its stunning scenery, with colourful houses lining the shoreline of Lake Hallstatt and the steep slopes of the Dachstein massif.

The Hallstatt salt mine is a unique attraction that offers a glimpse into the ancient history of salt production in the area. The mine is located within the Upper Permian to Lower Triassic Haselgebirge Formation of the Northern Limestone Alps. It is believed that people have been mining salt in Hallstatt since as early as 5000 BC, and the salt trade played a significant role in the development of the Hallstatt culture, an archaeological culture linked to Proto-Celtic and early Celtic people of the Early Iron Age in Europe.

A visit to the Hallstatt salt mine is an unforgettable experience for both adults and children. The mine comprises 21 levels and several smaller shafts, with a total elevation range of about 750 metres. Visitors can explore the mystical tunnels and learn about the history of salt mining in the area. The mine is also home to a subterranean salt lake, which can be reached by gondola. This hidden lake is an incredible sight, glistening in the cool depths of the mountain.

One of the highlights of the Hallstatt salt mine is the Bronze Age Cinema, located 400 metres underground. Here, visitors can watch an animated film about the everyday life of miners in Hallstatt, projected onto Europe's oldest wooden staircase. The film brings to life the hard work of mining "white gold", a valuable commodity that was carried out of the mountain via the ancient staircase.

After exploring the salt mine, visitors can take the funicular railway in the village to the Hallstatt Skywalk. This platform, located 360 meters above the village, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Hallstatt, Lake Hallstatt, and the surrounding Dachstein Alps. The Skywalk is also known as the "World Heritage View", as it overlooks the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hallstatt, recognised for its cultural and historical significance.

Other attractions in Austria that are perfect for families with kids include:

  • Riesenrad Ferris Wheel in Vienna
  • Schönbrunn Palace and its Kindermuseum (children's museum) in Vienna
  • Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum) in Salzburg
  • Trebesing, Europe's first baby village, with its Fairy Tale Mile adventure trail
  • Zoos and water activities in Vienna
  • Museum of Illusions in Vienna

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Experience the Toy Museum in Salzburg, boasting antique toys, interactive exhibits, and a children's cinema

Salzburg is a charming city nestled near the German border, with stunning views of the Eastern Alps. It is renowned for its breathtaking Baroque architecture, with its Old City designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Beyond its aesthetic allure, Salzburg also offers a plethora of attractions for families, especially those seeking to delve into the world of toys and cinema.

The Spielzeugmuseum, or Toy Museum, is a must-visit destination for families exploring Salzburg. Housed within a magnificent Baroque edifice, this museum showcases the largest collection of toys in all of Austria. The vast array of exhibits includes antique dolls, cuddly teddy bears, intricate model trains, whimsical gnomes, and other playthings, some of which date back more than 250 years. This 800-square-meter space is a treasure trove of entertainment for children of all ages, inviting them to explore and interact with the displays.

The museum goes beyond mere observation; it encourages children to engage in hands-on experiences through interactive exhibits and workshops. This approach ensures that young visitors don't just admire the toys but also get to play with them, igniting their imaginations and fostering a sense of creativity. It's not just about the toys, either. The Toy Museum also boasts a children's cinema, where kids can take a break from exploring and settle in for a captivating film.

While the children immerse themselves in the cinema or play with the toys, parents can find their own havens of relaxation within the museum. A tea room provides the perfect setting for a tranquil break, while quieter rooms and spaces cater to those who prefer a peaceful atmosphere for reading or simply unwinding after a busy day of sightseeing. If your visit coincides with an afternoon puppet show, consider yourself lucky!

Salzburg's Toy Museum is more than just a collection of playthings; it's an interactive, engaging, and entertaining experience for the whole family. So, whether you're a child eager to explore or a parent seeking a blend of fun and relaxation, the Toy Museum in Salzburg is a destination not to be missed.

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Wander through Trebesing's Fairy Tale Mile, an adventure trail with fairy tale characters, a Dragon Gorge, and a suspension bridge

If you're looking for a magical experience in Austria, look no further than Trebesing's Fairy Tale Mile. This adventure trail is located in Trebesing, surrounded by the Hohe Tauern National Park and Nockberge Biosphere Reserve. It is brimming with enchantment and is sure to leave lasting memories for both children and adults alike.

The Fairy Tale Mile is a three-kilometre adventure trail through the woods, offering a unique and captivating experience. The journey begins onboard the Taca-Tuca-Tractor, setting the tone for an immersive fairy tale exploration. As they venture through the trail, children will be delighted to discover life-sized figures of their favourite fairy tale characters hidden among the trees. The trail also leads to a mysterious Dragon Gorge, where imagination and fantasy come to life.

One of the trail's highlights is the suspension bridge, one of the longest in the Alps. Walking across this bridge offers a thrilling experience, with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The bridge sways gently with the wind, adding an element of excitement to the journey. The Fairy Tale Mile is not just for children, as adults can also enjoy the circular pathway for jogging or Nordic walking, taking in the fresh air and beautiful scenery.

In addition to the trail, Trebesing offers a large play area for children to let their imaginations run wild. There are also plenty of sports activities available for all ages, ensuring that everyone remains entertained and active during their visit. For those looking to extend their stay, there are family-friendly hotels nearby offering leisure facilities, providing the perfect opportunity to unwind and create lasting memories.

Frequently asked questions

Austria is a great place for outdoor activities with kids. In summer, there are over 30 bathing lakes and thermal baths to choose from. The Alte Donau is a huge lake with public lido facilities, paddle boat hire and more. The Danube island and river's north shore have bars, beaches, bathing areas, cycling, skating and climbing. If you're in the mountains, you can try hiking, cycling or skiing.

Vienna has plenty of attractions for kids, including the iconic Riesenrad Ferris Wheel, the historic Prater amusement park, the Museum of Illusions, and the world's oldest zoo, the Schonbrunn Zoo. Salzburg is home to the Spielzeugmuseum (Toy Museum), which has the largest collection of toys in Austria, as well as the Haus der Natur science museum.

Hallstatt is a beautiful ancient salt mining town with a funicular railway and a mysterious underground world to explore. Trebesing is Europe's first baby village, with a three-kilometre adventure trail through the woods called the Fairy Tale Mile. Bad Gastein has Austria's highest suspension bridge, with fantastic views of the mountains.

The historic centre of Vienna is rich in beautiful Baroque architecture, castles and gardens. The Kindermuseum (children's museum) in Schönbrunn Palace invites kids to dress up like royalty and learn about the everyday life of the imperial family who lived there. Mozart's birthplace in Salzburg is also a popular tourist attraction, and you can try the town's signature "Mozart Balls" – pistachio and marzipan coated in chocolate.

After an active day, wellness hotels with saunas and thermal baths provide the perfect way to unwind and recharge.

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