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Best attractions in Austria
Once the magnificent summer residence of Maria Theresia, Emperor Franz Joseph, and his beloved Sissi, Schönbrunn Palace today captivates visitors from around the globe. With its sprawling gardens and rich imperial history, it has become Vienna's most popular attraction. The baroque masterpiece features over 1,400 rooms, of which around 45 are open for visitors, including:
When you think of Vienna, Schönbrunn Palace and the historic center (the 1st District) immediately come to mind. Visit the Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, steeped in legend, the imposing Hofburg, and the elegant shopping streets of Graben and Kärntner Straße. This is a neighborhood made for exploring – whether on a leisurely stroll, a romantic carriage ride, or over a cup of coffee in one of Vienna’s iconic coffeehouses.
The Hohensalzburg Fortress towers majestically over Salzburg's Old Town and, with over 7,000 m² of built-up area, ranks among the largest fully preserved castle complexes in Europe. Since its construction began in 1077, it has been continuously expanded and today impresses with its late Gothic architecture as well as the magnificent princely chambers, which bring to life the world of the archbishops around 1500.
The Wachau is one of the most beautiful cultural landscapes in Austria and one of our favorite excursion destinations. This picturesque Danube valley stretches between the towns of Melk and Krems. It is not only famous for its terraced vineyards and the renowned Wachauer Marille (apricots) but also for Melk Abbey and the castle ruins of Dürnstein (where King Richard the Lionheart was once held captive). Whether you're hiking on the World Heritage Trail, visiting during the apricot blossom season, or stopping by a traditional Heuriger, the Wachau offers unforgettable experiences for all your senses.
Nestled in the Alps and spanning Carinthia, Salzburg, and Tyrol, the Hohe Tauern National Park covers an area of 1,856 km², making it Austria’s largest national park and a mecca for nature lovers. The Großglockner, Austria’s highest mountain, rises above an immense region with over 300 peaks exceeding 3,000 meters, 342 glaciers, and roaring waterfalls such as the Krimml Waterfalls.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of the Wachau, the magnificent Melk Abbey rises above the Danube. Built between 1702 and 1746 based on designs by Jakob Prandtauer, the abbey is considered a masterpiece of Baroque architecture and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In addition to regular concerts and changing exhibitions, the monastery offers fascinating insights into the spiritual life of the Benedictines.
The Krimml Waterfalls, Austria’s highest waterfalls are a breathtaking natural spectacle in the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park. With an impressive drop of 380 meters across three tiers, they attract thousands of visitors each year who come to experience the roaring water and the therapeutic effect of the fine mist.
Once envisioned by Archduke Ferdinand II. as one of the world’s first museums, Ambras Castle dazzles with its elegant Renaissance architecture, the magnificent Spanish Hall, and a unique art and curiosity cabinet. Visitors can trace the legacy of the Habsburg Dynasty and unwind in the sprawling castle park—a hidden jewel in the Tyrolean Alps.
The Steffl, as the Viennese lovingly call St. Stephen’s Cathedral, is the famous landmark of Vienna. Its striking Gothic architecture, crowned by the 136 m tall South Tower, dominates the heart of Vienna. Legends surround its lengthy construction period, including one that claims the architect struck a deal with the devil to fund the project in exchange for his soul. Indeed, construction of the Gothic church spanned from 1304 to 1511, with the North Tower left unfinished due to the Turkish threat, allowing a shift in focus to defending the city.
The Tiergarten Schönbrunn is not only the oldest operating zoo in the world (founded in 1752 by Emperor Francis I Stephen of Lorraine as an imperial menagerie), but has also been repeatedly voted the best zoo in all of Europe. This is thanks to the tremendous efforts of the zoo directors, who have gradually transformed the old cages into enclosures as close to nature as possible.
One of the biggest palace complexes in the world: From Sisi’s private world and the Imperial winter apartments to the stunning Austrian National Library and more hidden gems in the centre of Vienna.
The baroque Mirabell Palace is one of Salzburg's most famous landmarks. Originally built in 1606 by Prince-Archbishop Wolf Dietrich von Raitenau for his mistress Salome Alt, it was later renamed "Mirabell" by Markus Sittikus, meaning "wonderfully beautiful." Particularly impressive are the magnificent Marble Hall, considered one of the world's most beautiful wedding halls today, and the intricately designed Angel Staircase with its delicate marble statues.
When you visit Salzburg, you simply must stroll through the city's Old Town. As the birthplace of Mozart and home to the renowned Salzburg Festival, this former princely city rightly belongs on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Start your walking tour from the Mirabell Gardens and cross the Salzach River via the Makartsteg bridge. Within the medieval city walls you’ll find a maze of narrow, crooked alleys lined with cute shops and luxurious jewelry stores. Follow Getreidegasse, the most popular shopping street, before arriving at the Cathedral Square. Here you can visit the magnificent Salzburg Cathedral. Most of the impressive architecture you’ll see is from the Baroque era, shaped by Italian masters such as Vincenzo Scamozzi and Santino Solari.
Located in the southern part of Salzburg, the Hellbrunn Palace is a Mannerist pleasure palace and a magnet for visitors from around the world. Built in the early 17th century by Prince-Archbishop Markus Sittikus von Hohenems, the estate delights both young and old with its playful water features, where hidden fountains provide wet surprises. Highlights include the mechanical theater, featuring around 200 water-powered figures, and the Stone Theater, the oldest open-air theater in Europe.
The Eisriesenwelt near Werfen is the largest ice cave in the world and a spectacular natural wonder that attracts thousands of visitors from all over the globe each year. The first 1,000 meters of the cave are open to tourists, showcasing gigantic ice formations, including the 25-meter-high Great Ice Wall. Located high in the Tennengebirge mountains at 1,656 meters above sea level, this adventure also offers breathtaking views over Salzburg’s countryside.
The Hohenwerfen Fortress rises majestically on a 155-meter-high rocky cone above the Salzach Valley and is one of Austria's most impressive medieval castles. Built in the 11th century, it once served as a military stronghold and hunting lodge for the Prince-Archbishops of Salzburg. Located in Werfen, about 40 km south of Salzburg, it is a particularly popular destination for families. The castle attracts visitors from around the globe with its exciting guided tours, daily bird of prey demonstrations, and the falconry museum featuring a bird of prey educational trail.
The Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of Austria’s most famous and breathtaking panoramic routes. With its 36 hairpin bends and an altitude difference of over 1,500 meters, it winds through 47 km of stunning landscapes, from lush forests to rugged glaciers. Highlights like the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe and Edelweißspitze offer unforgettable views of the mighty Grossglockner and the Pasterze Glacier.
The Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is one of the most significant and magnificent museums in the world, a must-visit for culture and art enthusiasts. Located at the Ring, between the Hofburg and the MuseumsQuartier, it impresses with its architectural splendor in the style of Italian Neo-Renaissance (built in 1891). The collections include masterpieces by Bruegel, Rubens, and Rembrandt as well as fascinating artifacts from antiquity and ancient Egypt. Particularly famous is the "Saliera" by Cellini, a treasure of the Kunstkammer Vienna. The museum's interior also captivates visitors with artworks by Gustav Klimt. A visit to the KHM should definitely be on your itinerary when traveling to Vienna.
The Vienna State Opera, constructed in the Neo-Renaissance style, transports visitors to another era with its elegant façade and opulent interiors. Since its opening in 1869 with Mozart’s Don Giovanni, the opera house has made music history and captivates audiences with around 350 high-quality performances annually. The guided tours, which offer a glimpse behind the scenes of one of the world’s most famous opera houses, are especially popular with tourists.
In the magnificent summer residence of the superstar Prince Eugene of Savoy, you’ll find one of Austria's most significant art museums. Here, you can explore Austrian art history from the Middle Ages to the 21st century. A particular focus lies on the Fin de Siècle and Art Nouveau periods, with the world's largest Gustav Klimt collection as its centerpiece.
The Natural History Museum Vienna is one of the largest and most significant collections in the world, boasting around 30 million objects that vividly document the diversity of nature and the history of our planet. Located at the central Maria-Theresien-Platz opposite the Art History Museum, the building impresses with its magnificent historicist architecture and a distinctive dome crowned by a statue of the sun god Helios. Highlights include:
The Dachstein – a majestic mountain range in Austria's Northern Limestone Alps – features breathtaking glacier landscapes, impressive karst formations, and a wealth of activities for hikers, climbers, and winter sports enthusiasts. As the highest peak in both Styria and Upper Austria, the Hohe Dachstein (2,995 m) is not only a draw for mountaineers but also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Karlskirche, with its green dome and unique relief columns, is among the most significant sacred buildings in Central Europe. Commissioned by Emperor Charles VI in gratitude for the end of the 7th plague epidemic, the church was dedicated to St. Charles Borromeo, patron saint against epidemics. Designed by Johann Bernhard Fischer von Erlach, it was completed by his son and inaugurated in 1737 after 21 years of construction.
The Wurstelprater, known simply as the Prater, has been delighting visitors from around the world with its mix of nostalgia and thrills since the 18th century. Back in 1766, Emperor Joseph II opened the former imperial hunting grounds to the public, and since then, the Prater has become a popular destination for all. Today, the iconic Vienna Giant Ferris Wheel, built in 1897, serves as the park’s distinctive landmark, offering a stunning view of the city. (Just be patient, as the gondolas ascend at a leisurely pace.) With more than 200 attractions, from relaxed carousels and haunted houses to roller coasters and adrenaline-pumping rides like the 117-meter-high Prater Tower, the Prater is a favorite leisure spot for families, students, and adults alike.
The palace park is a magnificent Baroque garden ensemble surrounding the former summer residence of the Habsburgs and part of the UNESCO World Heritage. It was designed in the French style in the early 18th century and later expanded under Maria Theresa. From the Gloriette with its splendid panoramic view of Vienna to the magnificent Neptune Fountain, the park is brimming with treasures. Artfully designed flower beds, sculptures, and fountains invite leisurely strolls, while the glass Palm House and the world’s oldest zoo captivate visitors of all ages. A walk through the small forest often reveals adorable squirrels.
The Albertina, one of Europe's most important art museums, is an absolute highlight for culture enthusiasts. Founded in 1776, it now houses over one million graphics and drawings by greats such as Dürer, Michelangelo, and Picasso, as well as masterpieces of painting from Monet to Matisse. Especially Dürer’s Hare is world-famous. Located in the Palais Erzherzog Albrecht and complemented by the modern Soravia Wing, the Albertina showcases all the major artists of modern and contemporary art history.
Along the Ringstraße, the Vienna City Hall soars 103.3 meters into the sky. Constructed between 1872 and 1883 under the guidance of Friedrich von Schmidt, it’s inspired by the Gothic style of Flemish town halls yet incorporates Baroque elements with its seven arcaded courtyards. Following Emperor Franz Joseph’s command, the tower could not surpass the 99-meter-high Votive Church. However, the architect found a clever solution: he built the tower to 97.9 meters and crowned it with a statue, the Rathausmann!
Between the historic baroque facades and modern buildings, you’ll find cozy cafés, lounge areas, and open courtyards that are particularly inviting in summer. Young people chat on the iconic MQ furniture, while a wealth of museums is right at your doorstep:
The Hundertwasser House in Vienna is a vibrant art piece that vividly showcases the vision of the extraordinary artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. With its irregular shapes, bold colors, and lush greenery, it’s a striking architectural landmark. Built in the 1980s, this unique residential building embodies Hundertwasser’s dream of a harmonious connection between humans, architecture, and nature. Its balconies and rooftops host over 200 trees and shrubs, creating a green oasis in the heart of the city.
At the edge of Salzburg Airport stands the futuristic Hangar-7, an elliptical gem made of steel and specialty glass. The building houses not only a collection of historic airplanes, helicopters, and Formula 1 race cars belonging to the late entrepreneur Dietrich Mateschitz, who passed away in 2022, but also rotating exhibitions of contemporary art. The highlight is undoubtedly the collection of the Flying Bulls, which brings history to life with rarities like the Douglas DC-6B.
The Haus des Meeres is a unique Aqua Terra Zoo housed in a former flak tower from the Second World War. Over 11 floors, more than 10,000 animals from around 600 species, including sharks, rays, monkeys, and crocodiles, can be admired. A special highlight is the 360° shark tank on the 7th floor, offering views of these majestic sea creatures from every angle. On the top floor, the OCEAN SKY Restaurant entices visitors with its panoramic view of Vienna.
The Belvedere Garden in Vienna is a masterpiece of Baroque garden design and an enduring legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Designed by Johann Lucas von Hildebrandt between 1714 and 1723 at the request of Prince Eugene of Savoy, the celebrated military commander, the expansive grounds captivate with their symmetrical layout and dramatic terracing, which elegantly emphasize the elevation differences between the Upper and Lower Belvedere. Today, the two buildings house the renowned Belvedere collections (incl. Klimt) and host temporary exhibitions.
The Vienna Musikverein is not only one of the most prestigious concert halls in the world but also an architectural masterpiece. Built in 1870 by Theophil Hansen in the neoclassical style, the building resembles an ancient temple. Its most famous feature is the phenomenal Golden Hall, celebrated for its outstanding acoustics, which make it one of the best concert halls in the world. The acoustic perfection arises from a flawless combination of room proportions, wood paneling, and wall decorations, which create an unparalleled clarity and richness of sound.
The Graz Schloßberg is the heart of Graz – a 123m high dolomite rock rising above the city center, captivating visitors with its 360° panoramic view. The history of the Schloßberg, once home to an impregnable fortress, dates back to the Middle Ages. Especially famous are the Clock Tower, with its reversed hands, and the Bell Tower, which houses the largest bell in Styria.
In the Swarovski Crystal Worlds in Wattens, Austria, near Innsbruck, you can expect a fascinating blend of art museum, park, and experience world. Opened in 1995, the facility was designed by André Heller as a giant head figure - the "Giant" - and houses 18 underground "chambers of wonders" featuring crystal interpretations by internationally renowned artists like Brian Eno and Salvador Dalí.
On Graz’s western edge you’ll find the Eggenberg Palace - the most important Baroque palace in Styria and part of the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built between 1625 and 1646, it’s a tribute to cosmic order, featuring:
The Neusiedler See – shallow, vast, and full of character – lies between the gentle Burgenland and the expansive plains of Hungary. With its dense reed belt and mild Pannonian climate, the lake provides the perfect setting for sailors, cyclists, and nature lovers. In 2001, the cultural landscape of Fertő/Neusiedler See was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
If you want to discover one of Austria’s most beautiful landscape parks, plan a half- or full-day trip to Laxenburg, just 15 km from Vienna. Once the summer retreat of the Habsburgs, this 280-hectare park invites you to unwind amidst monuments, charming paths, and the romantic castle pond.
Between the dense deciduous forests of the Vienna Woods, you’ll find the perfect escape from Vienna’s hustle and bustle. Just a stone's throw from the capital, this forest (now a UNESCO biosphere reserve) is the beloved local retreat for Viennese residents. Whether you are climbing the highest peak, the Schöpfl at 893 meters, watching kite flying at Gießhübl, savoring a pleasant summer evening with a glass of Veltliner at a traditional Heuriger, or visiting the Heiligenkreuz Abbey – there are countless ways to relax here.
The Achensee, often referred to as the "Tyrolean Sea," is the largest lake in Tyrol, covering an area of 6.8 square kilometers, and impresses with its crystal-clear water that is suitable for drinking.
The Salzburg Cathedral is the first early Baroque church north of the Alps and one of Salzburg's most important landmarks. Built between 1614 and 1628 by architect Santino Solari, the cathedral impresses with its imposing façade made of Untersberg marble, two distinctive towers, and a massive dome. Originally consecrated in 774, it was repeatedly rebuilt after being destroyed by fires, with the current structure dating back to the 17th century. Highlights include:
High above the city, the mighty Kufstein Fortress welcomes you, with a history dating back to the early 13th century. The expansive complex, covering 24,000 m², is home to the Kufstein Local Museum, featuring Bronze and Stone Age artifacts, as well as the Heroes' Organ - the largest outdoor organ in the world, which plays daily at noon.
The Wolfgangsee is the largest lake in the state of Salzburg, covering over 13 square kilometers of water surface, and is divided by a unique, ever-changing border between Salzburg and Upper Austria. As part of the Salzkammergut, it attracts visitors with its crystal-clear water, reaching depths of up to 113 meters, and offers excellent conditions for swimming, sailing, and diving.
From the Austrian side, the Tiroler Zugspitzbahn takes you from Ehrwald-Obermoos to the summit of the Zugspitze in just 7.2 minutes. Opened in 1926, this cable car was the first to reach the Zugspitze and underwent a complete modernization in 1991 after a varied history.
In the midst of the Hellbrunn Palace Park, the GeoZoo awaits you with around 1,500 animals from 150 species. The area, which has been used as a wildlife park since the 15th century, delights visitors with its natural design, where rock walls and the Salzburg mountain landscape are harmoniously integrated into the animal enclosures. A particular highlight is the spacious savanna enclosure with rhinos and zebras, while free-roaming lemurs regularly enchant visitors. With barrier-free paths, daily feedings, and events, the zoo is a highlight for visitors of all ages.
The Highline179 is one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world, connecting the historic sites of Ehrenberg Castle Ruins and Fort Claudia in Reutte, Tyrol. At a height of 114 meters, you cross 406 meters over the Fernpass road while enjoying the view of the impressive fortress structures.
In the picturesque Marchfeld region, just an hour from Vienna, the baroque Schloss Hof invites visitors – and enchants with a petting zoo that makes children's eyes light up. While little ones get up close with rare animal breeds like Mangalitza pigs, donkeys, or Carinthian spectacled sheep, or conquer the adventure playground, adults can enjoy the expansive baroque gardens or the magnificent orangery. An ideal destination for a day trip.
Some places are older than you can imagine. Perched high above Lake Hallstatt, the cool, dark tunnels of the world’s oldest salt mine transport you back more than 7,000 years. Here, prehistoric miners used rudimentary tools to extract the "white gold" that brought prosperity to Hallstatt during the early Iron Age. This fascinating excursion appeals to visitors of all ages. It’s no surprise that the salt mine is one of the most popular attractions in Upper Austria.
Majestically, Hochosterwitz Castle sits atop a 175-meter-high dolomite rock overlooking the Carinthian landscape. On your way to the main castle, you will pass through no less than 14 impressive gates, which were built between the 9th century and their major expansion under Georg von Khevenhüller in the 16th century.
Lake Wörthersee, with an area of 19.39 km², is the largest lake in Carinthia and, thanks to its unique climate, one of the warmest alpine lakes overall—during summer, the water regularly exceeds 25°C.
The Stadt Haag Zoo is a wonderful destination for animal lovers and families looking for a relaxing day in nature. Nestled in the Salaberg Castle Park, designed as an English landscape garden in the 19th century, you'll find over 700 animals from around 70 species, including big cats like North Chinese leopards, Siberian tigers, and lynxes, as well as squirrels, donkeys, Barbary macaques, zebras, and brown bears.
The tallest wooden observation tower in the world, standing at 100 meters, is located on Pyramidenkogel in Carinthia and offers you a breathtaking panoramic view of Lake Wörthersee and the surrounding region. The structure, made of wood and steel, was opened in 2013 and designed by architects Markus Klaura and Dietmar Kaden. Its twisted elliptical shape and natural ventilation are truly impressive. In addition to the glass Skybox restaurant, the tower attracts adrenaline enthusiasts with Europe’s highest building slide, a zipline, and a free-fall attraction. You can reach the various observation platforms by elevator or by climbing 441 steps, which draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year since its opening.
A short hiking trip to the Myra Falls in Muggendorf is a wonderful experience for the whole family. The well-maintained trail, featuring 11 themed stations, follows the course of the Myra stream across 26 bridges. Along its 125-meter descent, the stream forms a series of charming, small waterfalls, creating picturesque views at every turn.
Bad Blumau is truly one of a kind. Designed by the extraordinary artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser, this vibrant, organic masterpiece is a joy to explore, whether for a day or two. The complex boasts forested rooftops, charming terrace gardens, golden domes, around 330 colorful columns, and over 2,400 windows—each one completely unique.
Nestled in the picturesque Alps of Upper Styria, the Basilica of Mariazell attracts over a million visitors each year, making it Austria’s most significant pilgrimage church. Its origins date back to the 12th century when a monk named Magnus carried a miraculous lindenwood statue of Mary to this spot. According to legend, his path was blocked by a massive rock. When he set down the 48 cm statue, the rock miraculously split, allowing him to continue. Today, the statue is venerated as the "Magna Mater Austriae" and is adorned annually with an intricately designed ceremonial robe. More than 150 of these robes are on display in the church’s treasury.
In the Hallein Salt Mine south of Salzburg, you can experience firsthand how the "white gold" has been mined since the 7th century BC on guided 75-minute tours. The former mine, which operated until 1989, takes you through eight different mining levels and surprises you with a boat ride across an underground salt lake.
In Minimundus, a 26,000 m² miniature park in Klagenfurt, you can discover 165 detailed models of famous buildings, ships, and trains from around the world, all at a scale of 1:25.
At an altitude of 2,369 meters, you will find the Kaiser-Franz-Josefs-Höhe, an impressive viewpoint along the Grossglockner High Alpine Road offering panoramic views of the Pasterze, the longest glacier in the Eastern Alps. The location is named after Emperor Franz Joseph I., who hiked here from Heiligenblut in four hours in 1856 - an event commemorated by the "Kaiserstein" to this day.
Some places feel like they belong to another era - Grafenegg Castle is one of them. With its fusion of Gothic, Baroque, and Renaissance architecture, set amidst an enchanting English landscape park, it’s like stepping straight into a storybook.
In Austria's largest amusement park, you can expect a total of 31 attractions spread over 145,000 m², divided into four themed areas: Adventure Castle, Fairy Tale Forest, Adventure Island, and Farm. What started in 1968 as a small fairy tale forest has developed over the decades into a versatile family park, which has been part of the French Compagnie des Alpes since 2019. Here, you'll find everything from cozy carousels to the Beaver Castle - Austria's largest white-water ride with a 17-meter drop. While the mascot Filippo welcomes the little visitors, the park also features a petting zoo with goats, ponies, and donkeys.
Right below the impressive Landskron Castle, you'll find Austria's largest open-air enclosure for Japanese macaques, where around 180 of these fascinating monkeys live in a 40,000 square meter forest area. Since its establishment in 1996, the monkey mountain has become a popular destination, attracting 120,000 visitors each year.
Perched high atop a steep 320-meter rocky spur, the Aggstein Castle Ruins are a place whose turbulent history is sure to send shivers down your spine. With views of the Danube and surrounded by the picturesque Wachau landscape, the ruins invite you to delve into the dark tales of the Middle Ages - from the robber baron Jörg Scheck vom Wald to the chilling "Rosengärtlein," where prisoners faced a cruel choice. Explore the ancient walls, join fascinating guided tours, and enjoy special events like the Castle Advent - all while taking in one of the region's most breathtaking panoramic views. A true highlight for any medieval history enthusiast!
The 5fingers viewing platform on the Krippenstein is one of the nicest vantage points in the Alps. Like the five fingers of a hand, the platforms extend 400 meters above a sheer drop, offering stunning panoramic views of Hallstättersee, the UNESCO World Heritage region of Hallstatt-Dachstein, and the surrounding Salzkammergut.
At an altitude of 2,700 meters, a truly unique experience awaits: The Stairway to Nothingness offers brave visitors the chance to step onto a glass platform suspended 400 meters above the ground and feel the breath of the Alps. Connected to the Dachstein Suspension Bridge, this attraction is one of the region's most spectacular highlights.
Nestled between Petronell-Carnuntum and Bad Deutsch-Altenburg, just a stone's throw from Vienna, lies the fascinating Roman City of Carnuntum – a place where history comes to life. Once the capital of the province of Upper Pannonia and home to up to 50,000 people, this beautifully reconstructed site offers a deep dive into Roman antiquity.
At the tripoint between Germany, Austria, and Switzerland lies Lake Constance - the largest and deepest lake in Germany, inhabited since the Stone Age. Here, you can expect a unique cultural landscape with UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Monastic Island of Reichenau, picturesque towns such as Constance and Lindau, and the flower-filled island of Mainau. The lake not only provides drinking water for 4.5 million people but also offers ideal conditions for viticulture and fruit orchards due to its mild climate. Whether sailing, cycling along the Lake Constance Cycle Path, or taking a cruise with the "White Fleet," the diverse recreational opportunities make Lake Constance one of the most popular holiday destinations in Central Europe.
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Linz, often simply called The Cathedral or Mariendom, is the largest church in Austria and a stunning masterpiece of neo-Gothic architecture. Since its foundation stone was laid in 1862, the cathedral has dominated the cityscape with its immense size and its elegant tower, which stands just shy of the height of Vienna’s St. Stephen’s Cathedral. The vibrant stained-glass windows, including the famous Linz Window, depict stories from the city’s history, while the viewing platform at 112 meters offers breathtaking views of Linz and the surrounding area.
Do you feel like an adventure? This zoo takes you on a journey around the world, right in the heart of beautiful Eastern Styria. From lions and agile cheetahs to cheeky prairie dogs, over 80 animal species are waiting to be discovered by you. One of the highlights is Europe’s largest cheetah enclosure, where you can feel the wilderness up close! For little explorers, there’s also a lovingly designed petting zoo and playgrounds.
High above Maria Enzersdorf, the impressive Liechtenstein Castle stands on a narrow ridge, built in the 12th century by Hugo I. of Liechtenstein as part of a defensive line against attacks from the east. After being destroyed during the Second Turkish Siege of Vienna in 1683, it remained in ruins for a long time until the Princes of Liechtenstein repurchased it in 1808 and had it rebuilt in a neo-Romanesque style.
In the picturesque Kurpark located on Badener Berg, you will find a historically developed park that dates back to the 2nd century, when a Roman bathing district was established here. From the modest garden in front of the Theresienbad built in 1758, a vast park landscape with winding paths and impressive structures has evolved over the centuries.
High above the picturesque town of Dürnstein lies this venerable, mystical castle ruin. Once the prison of King Richard the Lionheart, the stone remnants from the 12th century testify to a turbulent past. The short ascent may be steep, but the reward is unbeatable: a panoramic view showcasing the Danube in all its splendor, framed by gentle vineyards and the charm of the Wachau Valley. Here, history is not just felt; it is seen, touched, and breathed. And when the wind sweeps through the ruins, it almost seems as if it whispers legends of times long past.
The striking Rax massif in the Northern Limestone Alps rises to its highest point, the Heukuppe, at 2007 meters and offers you an impressive hiking area with its vast karst plateau. Since the first documented ascent by Charles de l'Écluse in the 16th century, the Rax has become a popular destination, accessible since 1925 by Austria's first tourist cable car.
In the former Rüsch-Werke, a metal factory from the 19th century, you will find Vorarlberg's most visited museum today. The inatura cleverly combines natural history with interactive technology experiments across 3,000 m² and takes you on a journey through the typical habitats of the region - from the mountains to the forests and waterways.
With its 169-meter depth, Attersee is not only Austria's second-deepest lake but also, alongside Lake Constance, its largest. Nestled picturesquely in the Salzkammergut region, it is surrounded by idyllic towns like Seewalchen, Schörfling, and Unterach. The lake's stunning palette of colors, shimmering from turquoise to silver, makes it one of the most beloved destinations in the area. Here, you can swim, dive, and sail to your heart’s content.
The lighthouse on the eastern shore of Lake Neusiedl is a charming landmark that enchants many visitors with its red-and-white color scheme and picturesque location. Originally built to guide ship traffic, it is now a popular meeting point for sunbathers, photographers, and those seeking tranquility. It is also the southernmost lighthouse in the entire German-speaking region.
The Haus der Natur in Salzburg is a versatile museum that combines natural sciences and technology across more than 7,000 square meters. Whether you stroll through the aquarium with 42 tanks showcasing tropical coral reefs and native fish species, stand face-to-face with life-sized dinosaurs, or try out physical experiments yourself in the interactive Science Center – learning here becomes an adventure. The space hall and reptile zoo are also worth a visit, featuring snakes, lizards, and even crocodiles in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments. With exciting exhibitions, barrier-free access, and family-friendly offerings, the Haus der Natur is a popular destination for visitors of all ages.
High above Schladming, the Hochwurzen mountain rises to 1,850 meters, offering a perfect blend of nature and adventure. As part of the Ski Amadé network and the Schladming–Dachstein holiday region, it’s a year-round destination. In summer, stunning hiking trails wind through the Schladminger Tauern, while winter brings the thrill of a 7 km toboggan run and impeccably groomed ski slopes.
The Green Lake in Styria is a natural gem that has captivated visitors from around the world. Famous for its emerald-green, shimmering waters, fed by melting snow, it transforms into a 12-meter-deep lake from spring to early summer.
The view alone is the draw: from Salzburg’s highest viewing platform, your gaze sweeps across glaciers, rugged peaks, and Lake Zell - plus a cinema, a tunnel through the mountain, and summer ice adventures.
Perched atop a steep volcanic rock at 482 meters, Riegersburg is one of the best-preserved castles in Styria and a popular excursion destination. With its massive defensive walls, seven gates, and eleven bastions, the castle tells a story of over 900 years, including the fascinating era of the Gallerin, who transformed it into the "strongest fortress of Christendom."
At the Benedictine Abbey, you’ll find the world’s largest monastic library, a 70-meter-long treasure trove of knowledge with over 70,000 volumes. But there’s much more to discover: since 2003, a modern museum has spanned three floors and two wings, showcasing a diverse collection from Gothic art and nature to contemporary works.
As the first tourist cable car in Austria, you have been gliding from Hirschwang to an altitude of 1,546 meters since 1926 in just 7-10 minutes with the Rax Cable Car. The gondola covers a distance of 2,160 meters and reaches a maximum height of 60 meters above the ground.
The interactive Museum of the Future brings the future into the present. It explores the intersection of art, technology, and society, inviting visitors to engage with cutting-edge innovations. You can, for example, test artificial intelligence, train self-driving cars, program robots, or experiment with 3D printing. The motto is: Try it out and join in!
de: Do you love untouched nature, steep cliffs, and roaring rivers? Then the Gesäuse National Park is just the place for you. Nestled in the Ennstal Alps, this natural paradise spans over 12,000 hectares – a region where the Enns River rushes through one of Austria’s most spectacular gorges.
Experience Thayatal National Park: Set in the heart of the picturesque Waldviertel region, Thayatal National Park is a true natural treasure. With its rugged cliffs, dense forests, and the gently meandering Thaya River, this 13.3 km² protected area showcases an incredible diversity of flora and fauna right on the border with the Czech Republic. Over 40% of all plant species found in Austria flourish here, including rare orchids.
In the 40-hectare Wildpark Ernstbrunn on the edge of the Leiser Mountains, you can explore a diverse collection of native animal species since 1975 - from free-roaming goats to red deer and Highland cattle. The highlight of the park is the Wolf Science Center, established in 2009, where you can observe timber wolves on guided tours and learn more about their behavior. Through a one-way glass in the new testing building, you even have the chance to watch the researchers at work. The nature-oriented wildlife park is located in the northern part of the protected Schlosspark Ernstbrunn and offers a relaxing outing into the wildlife of Lower Austria with its spacious enclosures.
Founded in the early 12th century by Margrave Leopold III., Klosterneuburg Monastery uniquely combines vibrant monastic life, significant art treasures, and one of Austria's oldest wineries. In the impressive St. Mary's Birth Church, you can find the Verdun Altar from 1181, one of the most important medieval artworks in the country. The expansive monastery grounds not only house one of the oldest museums in the world but also the legendary Giant Barrel with a capacity of 56,000 liters. Today, the monastery is a lively center of the Catholic faith, offering regular tours, concerts, exhibitions, and an opera festival since 1994.
The Zwentendorf nuclear power plant is a unique attraction worldwide. As a fully constructed nuclear power plant that was never put into operation following a historic referendum in 1978, it offers insights into areas that are usually strictly off-limits – right up to the reactor core.
At the highest point of Burg Landskron, you will find one of the most impressive raptor stations in Austria, founded in 1983 by Michael Holzfeind and Franz Schüttelkopf. In the eagle arena, which opened in 2005, around 50 birds of prey and owls from over 20 different species live, and you can experience them up close during the daily flight demonstrations.