Austria Travel Guide

Last Updated on 26 January 2026 by Johan

Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe. It borders Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, Switzerland and Liechtenstein. The Alps cover much of the west and south while the Danube River flows through the east. This central location has shaped Austria as a meeting point of cultures and trade routes for centuries.

Explanation of the name: Austria

The name Austria comes from the Latin word Austria, meaning “eastern realm.” In German the country is called Österreich, which translates as “Eastern Empire.” This reflects its position east of Bavaria in the Holy Roman Empire. Over time the English form “Austria” became standard while Österreich remains the official name in German. The dual naming highlights both medieval heritage and modern identity.

History: Austria

Austria’s history is closely tied to the Habsburg dynasty which ruled Central Europe for centuries. Vienna became the imperial capital and a centre of music, art and philosophy. After the fall of the Austro‑Hungarian Empire in 1918 Austria became a republic. It was annexed by Nazi Germany in 1938 but regained independence in 1945. Since 1995 Austria has been a member of the European Union. Today it is a federal republic with nine states: Vienna, Burgenland, Carinthia, Lower Austria, Salzburg, Styria, Tyrol, Upper Austria and Vorarlberg.

Tourist information: Austria

Vienna is the capital and offers many highlights. The Hofburg Palace was once the seat of the Habsburg emperors. Today it houses the Austrian National Library, the Imperial Apartments and the Sisi Museum. The Spanish Riding School continues the tradition of Lipizzaner horses performing classical dressage. Schönbrunn Palace was the summer residence of the Habsburgs. Its rococo interiors and landscaped gardens are UNESCO‑listed. The grounds include Tiergarten Schönbrunn, the world’s oldest zoo founded in 1752. The Gloriette pavilion offers panoramic views of Vienna. The Belvedere Palace is another baroque complex. It contains Austria’s most important art collection including Gustav Klimt’s The Kiss. Its gardens are designed in French style and provide sweeping views of the city.

Salzburg is Mozart’s birthplace and a city of baroque charm. Hohensalzburg Castle is one of Europe’s largest fully preserved fortresses. Built in 1077 it overlooks Salzburg and the Alps. Inside are museums of medieval weaponry and gothic art. A unique feature is the “Salzburg Bull,” a mechanical organ from 1502 that still plays daily. Mirabell Palace was built in 1606. Its Marble Hall is considered one of the most beautiful wedding halls in the world. The gardens gained fame as a filming location for The Sound of Music, especially the “Do‑Re‑Mi” sequence.

Mozart, Salzburg, Austria.
Mozart, Kapuzinerberg, Salzburg, Austria. Photo by Free Walking Tour Salzburg on Unsplash

In Werfen near Salzburg lies Eisriesenwelt, the largest ice cave in the world. Discovered in 1879 it features stalactites and stalagmites formed from frozen water. Guided tours are available in summer with dramatic lighting highlighting the formations. In Krimml the Krimml Waterfalls are Europe’s tallest with a drop of 380 metres. They are part of Hohe Tauern National Park. Scientific studies show that the fine mist particles benefit asthma sufferers. Hiking trails lead to viewpoints along the cascades. In Carinthia Hochosterwitz Castle sits on a rocky hill. It is reached through 14 fortified gates each designed to slow attackers. Inside are renaissance paintings and a medieval armoury. The castle hosts seasonal events and exhibitions.

Fun things for children

Families will find plenty of activities. Vienna’s Prater amusement park offers rides and the Giant Ferris Wheel. The Haus des Meeres aquarium and Schönbrunn Zoo are favourites for children. In Salzburg the Toy Museum and Hellbrunn Trick Fountains entertain younger visitors. Winter brings skiing lessons in Tyrol and Vorarlberg while summer offers cycling along the Danube and hiking in Carinthia.

Hiking Rottenmann Austria. Photo by Hansjörg Rath on Unsplash.
Hiking Rottenmann Austria. Photo by Hansjörg Rath on Unsplash.

Culinary destinations

Austrian cuisine blends German, Hungarian and Italian influences. Famous dishes include Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz and Kärntner Kasnudeln. Desserts such as Sachertorte, Apfelstrudel and Kaiserschmarrn are iconic. Regional products like Wachau apricots and Styrian pumpkin seed oil add local flavour. Farmers’ markets in Graz and Vienna showcase seasonal produce. Wine regions such as Wachau and Burgenland offer tastings of Grüner Veltliner and Blaufränkisch.

Cycling and walking routes

Austria offers scenic cycling paths. The Danube Cycle Path runs from Passau to Vienna passing monasteries and vineyards. The Tauern Cycle Path crosses Salzburg and alpine valleys. Hiking trails include Vienna City Hiking Trail 1, the Eagle Walk in Tyrol and routes around Lake Neusiedl. These paths combine nature with cultural landmarks. In Carinthia trails around Lake Wörthersee are popular for families. In Vorarlberg the Lünersee circuit offers alpine views.

Seasonal activities and events

Austria hosts major festivals in 2026. The Vienna Festival brings theatre and music to the capital. The Danube Island Festival is one of Europe’s largest open‑air events. Vienna Ice World offers skating in front of City Hall. Music lovers can attend the Electric Love Festival in Salzburg and Snowbombing in Mayrhofen. Concerts by Helene Fischer and Pentatonix are scheduled. Christmas markets in Vienna, Salzburg and Innsbruck remain winter highlights. Ski resorts such as Kitzbühel and St Anton attract visitors with world‑class slopes.

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