Exploring Austria: Summer Destinations And Itineraries

where to go in austria during summer

Austria is a great destination for a summer holiday, with its picturesque mountains, stunning landscapes, and cheerful people. The country offers a unique lifestyle and culture, with activities such as hiking, biking, swimming, adventure sports, and culinary delights. The Schladming-Dachstein region, with its 300 mountain lakes, 100 waterfalls, and numerous springs, is a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts. For a mix of urban and natural experiences, Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, provides easy access to both castles and museums, as well as hiking trails and cable car rides. The Salzkammergut area close to Salzburg and Carinthia is known for its scenic beauty, combining lakes and mountains. The ZillergrundRock Luxury Mountain Resort and Hotel Lindenhof in Ramsau am Dachstein are excellent accommodation choices, offering stylish and comfortable stays with stunning views. Austria truly comes alive in the summer, providing a celebration of life and a deep appreciation for nature and local culture.

Characteristics Values
Activities Hiking, biking, cycling, mountain biking, trail running, paragliding, skydiving, swimming, skiing, snowboarding, fishing, golfing, sightseeing
Attractions Alpine lakes, mountains, rolling hills, vineyards, waterfalls, springs, historical paintings, castles, museums, gourmet mountain huts, spas, wellness centres
Food Schnitzel, local and seasonal produce, international gourmet cuisine, KITZ Culinary Festival
Accommodation ZillergrundRock Luxury Mountain Resort, Alpenhotel Kramerwirt, Hotel Lindenhof, Hotel Sonnenburg
Transport Rental car, train, cable car, funicular
Notable Areas Innsbruck, Kitzbühel, Salzkammergut, Carinthia, Zell am See-Kaprun, St. Johann in Tirol, Schladming-Dachstein, Mayrhofen, Ramsau am Dachstein, Filzmoos, Hintertux Glacier, Zillertal, Wolfsklamm Gorge

shunculture

Outdoor adventures in Schladming-Dachstein

Austria is a great destination for a summer holiday, with its picturesque mountains, stunning landscapes, and alpine lakes. The Schladming-Dachstein region in Styria, known as the green heart of Austria, is particularly ideal for outdoor adventures. With its impressive mountains and valleys, the region offers a multitude of incredible views, fresh Alpine air, and green valleys.

One of the best ways to explore Schladming-Dachstein is on foot. Hiking trails wind along the region's abundant waterways, from rushing streams to wild gorges, mountain lakes, and waterfalls. Schladming-Dachstein is one of the most water-rich regions in Austria, with 300 mountain lakes, 100 waterfalls, and numerous springs, earning it the nickname the 'Valley of a Thousand Springs'. The Dachstein, the highest mountain in Styria at 2,996 meters, offers views of the Czech Republic and Slovenia, as well as attractions like the Dachstein Suspension Bridge, the Skywalk, the Ice Palace, and the Stairway to Nothingness.

Mountain biking is another popular activity in the region, with a wide range of options for cyclists of all abilities. Numerous routes traverse magnificent natural landscapes at various altitudes, from dreamy forests and secluded Alpine meadows to crystal-clear mountain lakes. The Ramsau Round, a 36km mountain biking tour, offers wonderful views and a mix of fast downhills and challenging mountain stages. For a longer and more strenuous ride, the Viehberg Tour covers 64km and leads to high-level Alpine pastures, offering panoramic views of the Dachstein Glacier, Grimming, and the Salza Reservoir.

For those seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural experiences, the town of Schladming is worth visiting. The region also offers culinary delights, with a variety of bucolic Alpine huts serving local delicacies along the hiking and biking trails.

shunculture

Hiking and climbing in Kitzbühel, Tirol

Nestled in the Tyrolean Alps, Kitzbühel is a haven for hikers and climbers seeking breathtaking scenery and diverse trails. With its majestic mountains, lush landscapes, and clear lakes, it's no wonder that Kitzbühel is renowned as one of the best places for hiking and climbing in Austria during the summer. Here's everything you need to know about exploring this alpine paradise on foot.

Hiking Trails in Kitzbühel

Kitzbühel offers a plethora of hiking trails that cater to all levels of experience. For those seeking a challenging hike, the trail beginning in Aschau and leading towards Schwarzkogel is a rewarding option. This route treats hikers to stunning views of Kleine Rettenstein and the Kirchberg Valley. As you ascend, the majestic peaks of Jochberg, Pass Thurn, and the Hohe Tauern National Park come into view. The final descent takes you down 'The Streif', the world-famous ski race course, ending in the charming town of Kitzbühel itself.

If you're looking for a more leisurely hike, the Alpine Flower Garden on the Kitzbüheler Horn is a perfect choice. Here, you can take in the beauty of the flower-filled meadows and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The Streif Adventure Trail on the Hahnenkamm is another family-friendly option, featuring interactive stations and stunning viewpoints along a legendary racecourse.

Climbing Experiences in Kitzbühel

For climbers, Kitzbühel presents a range of exciting opportunities. The Kids' Climbing Path on the Kitzbüheler Horn is an excellent introduction to the sport, providing a safe and exciting experience with ropes and climbing elements. Beyond this, the region boasts numerous cliffs and rock faces that offer more advanced climbing challenges. The upper parts of the Kitzbüheler Alpen, with their steeper cliffs and rock faces, present technical climbing routes that will thrill experienced climbers.

Mountain Dining in Kitzbühel

After a day of hiking or climbing, refuelling is a must, and Kitzbühel delivers with its array of culinary delights. Indulge in local specialities such as game and trout, traditional cheeses, authentic breads, and sweet treats like blueberry pancakes, strudel, and Tyrolean doughnuts. With over 60 mountain restaurants to choose from, you're spoilt for choice when it comes to dining amidst breathtaking alpine scenery.

Practical Information

Kitzbühel is easily accessible, with three train stations in the town and close proximity to Innsbruck, Salzburg, and Munich airports. The town also offers a range of accommodations, from premium hotels to unique alpine stays, ensuring your comfort after a day of exploring the surrounding mountains.

shunculture

Explore the city of Innsbruck

Innsbruck, a Tyrolean city in western Austria, is a great place to visit in the summer. The city offers a perfect mix of sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Nordkette mountain range, Innsbruck is one of Austria's biggest cities yet still maintains a small-town feel. The River Inn runs straight through its centre, providing clear, glacial water to 40 nearby villages.

Innsbruck has its own airport, located just 2.5 miles from the city centre, which is easily accessible by bus or taxi. The city is also well-connected by train, with the Innsbruck Railway Station within walking distance of the Town Square.

In the summer months, Innsbruck's temperature typically ranges between 19°C and 25°C, with nights cooling off to 7-13°C. July and August are the warmer months, but they also have a slightly higher chance of rain. To explore the city centre and see the main sights, you'll need about 1-2 days. However, if you plan to venture into the surrounding areas and explore the mountains, you should allow for 2-4 days.

  • The Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl): Located in the Old Town, the Golden Roof is one of Innsbruck's top attractions. Built between 1497 and 1500, it features 2,657 copper shingles and golden decorations that shine brightly in the summer sun. There is also a museum that tells the story of the building's unique history.
  • Innsbruck Cathedral: This majestic cathedral towers over the city's coloured terraces and offers a stunning view from both the inside and outside. In the summer, the cathedral is open from 10:15 am to 6:30 pm Monday to Saturday and from 12:30 pm to 6:30 pm on Sundays.
  • Bergisel Ski Jump: Experience Innsbruck's skiing culture at the Bergisel Ski Jump, an architectural masterpiece that combines a ski jump tower, panoramic elevator, and a restaurant with 360-degree views of the city. Here, you can watch international athletes in training and even catch the annual Four Hills Tournament.
  • Imperial Palace (Hofburg): The Imperial Palace, also known as Hofburg, is a famed museum and former 18th-century residence of the Habsburg Dynasty. You can wander through the state rooms, Hall of Giants, chapel, and imperial apartments to get a glimpse into the royal lifestyle of the past.
  • Outdoor Adventures: Innsbruck is a city made for hikers, with numerous trails to explore. The city also offers mountain biking, family activities, and other outdoor pursuits. Additionally, you can take the Nordkettenbahnen lifts and cable cars to quickly get from the city centre up to the mountains.
  • Food and Culture: Innsbruck has a wide range of excellent restaurants, making it a great destination for foodies. You can also enjoy local delicacies at traditional guesthouses or savour a glass of wine at a rooftop bar. The city also boasts charming villages and idyllic rural settings to explore, along with museums and churches that showcase Austria's classical heritage.

Innsbruck truly comes alive in the summer, offering a unique blend of nature, culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're a hiker, a foodie, or a history buff, there's something for everyone in this beautiful Tyrolean city.

shunculture

Relax in spa towns

Austria is known for its picturesque mountains, stunning landscapes, and alpine lakes, but it is also home to some of Europe's best spas. The country's thermal spas are renowned for their architecture and health benefits. With around 40 thermal spas across Austria, you can unwind and relax in bubbling, flowing, and steaming water, surrounded by scenic beauty.

One of the most notable spas is Hotel Das Ronacher, which has been a wellness retreat for a long time. It boasts the country's first thermal saltwater pool, with four additional pools and alpine-cabin saunas. The Grand Suite offers a luxurious experience with a private sauna, an in-room bathtub, and a fireplace. Nearby, in the ski town of Bad Kleinkirchheim, Hotel Die Post welcomes families with a kid-friendly sauna, jetted pool, and fun hammocks.

For a unique, space-age experience, the Aqua Dome in the Ötztal valley features steaming thermal basins surrounding a pyramid. Here, you can float in a saltwater pool, taking in the views of the snow-capped mountains. The complex also offers private spa suites for couples, including salt exfoliation, steam baths, and massages.

If you're seeking a family-friendly option, the Familotel Kaiserhof in the mountainous Berwang region provides an extensive wellness centre with a strict adults-only spa area. Meanwhile, children can enjoy the indoor play area and a kids' club with activities like day trips to petting zoos.

St. Martins Thermal Bath & Lodge in the Weinviertel region is another excellent choice for relaxation. This 4-star resort offers indoor and outdoor pools, brine and massage pools, and a diverse sauna landscape. The 'Silent Spa' is a peaceful retreat designed for adults seeking tranquility. During the summer, you can take advantage of the summer pool and indulge in the day package, which includes numerous VIP services.

Whether you're seeking a luxurious escape, a family-friendly wellness retreat, or a unique spa experience, Austria's thermal spas offer the perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate amidst breathtaking natural surroundings.

shunculture

Enjoy the lakes and mountains in Salzkammergut

Austria is known for its picturesque mountains, stunning landscapes, and alpine lakes. The Salzkammergut region, in particular, offers spectacular views, with its combination of lakes and mountains. It is a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site shared between Upper Austria and Styria. Here are some ideas to enjoy the lakes and mountains in Salzkammergut:

Boat trips

You can take boat trips almost everywhere in Salzkammergut, but Wolfgangsee is an especially popular spot. Boats frequently run between St. Wolfgang, St. Gilgen, and Strobl, and you can easily visit all three villages in a day. In St. Wolfgang, you can visit the cathedral, a popular pilgrim site, and the luxurious spa hotel Weißes Rössl. St. Gilgen is famous for its connection to Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, as his mother was born there and his sister, Nannerl, married a local. Strobl, on the other hand, offers a pleasant stroll through its center, filled with 19th-century villas.

Mountain views

One of the most stunning views in Salzkammergut is from the top of Schafberg Mountain. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, the 5fingers viewing point offers unbeatable panoramas over Hallstatt, the Hallstatt Lake, and the Salzkammergut. The 5fingers platform reaches over 1,300 feet (400 meters) above the ground and has five platforms, one of which is made entirely of glass!

Lake activities

The Salzkammergut region is known for its beautiful lakes, including the famous Hallstatt Lake, nestled between the lake and the Dachstein Mountains. Hallstatt is a picturesque village with pastel-colored buildings and is Austria's most photographed mountain-side spot. Another popular lake is Weissensee, which is about 1,000 meters above sea level and surrounded by mountains, offering a great opportunity for fishing.

Historical sites

Salzkammergut also offers a wealth of history and culture. Bad Ischl, the summer residence of Emperor Franz Joseph I for over 60 years, is a must-see. The elegant Kaiservilla, surrounded by a splendid park, is Bad Ischl’s top attraction. Additionally, the Altaussee Salt Mine, Austria's largest still-operating mine, gained fame during World War II when it was used by Nazis to hide stolen art treasures.

Frequently asked questions

Innsbruck, the capital of Tyrol, is the perfect summer destination for travelers who want to balance outdoor pursuits with urban pleasures. You can tour castles, visit museums, dine al fresco, and shop.

Austria has plenty of outdoor adventures, including hiking, biking, lakes, adventure sports, and award-winning cuisine. You can also try paragliding and skydiving, or visit the Hintertux Glacier, where you'll find Europe's highest adventure playground.

St. Johann in Tirol is considered a prime family destination, with plenty of kid-friendly activities such as horseback riding, mountain karting, and the Hornpark Tree Top Adventure Park. Most regions also have complimentary summer guest cards, which offer free or discounted access to public transport and various activities, making it easier and more sustainable to travel with kids.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment