Found in the middle of Europe, Austria has always been in the center of tumultuous historic events and aristocratic intrigues. Besides it is embedded in the mountainous Alpine range, thus boasting an abundance of picturesque sites of magnificent nature. See our ten picks of the week, where you should go and what should you do once in this beautiful country.
10. Have fun at Snowbombing in Mayrhofen
or the fourth year in a row, the festival will take over the picturesque Alps. A week long festival features numerous artists, musicians, venues and other events. In addition, wonderful views, skiing and snowboarding opportunities attract European youth from Ibiza-like environment. “Ride & Seek” competition allows to watch professional athletes demonstrating their dangerous stunts on snow.
Why to go there?
In between the music and events, visitors can enjoy the Mayrhofen ski area themselves and spend time sliding those great slopes. The festival is taking place in April.
Photo by Danny North
Photo by Andrew Whitton
Photo by Andrew Whitton
Photo by Andrew Whitton
Photo by Andrew Whitton
9. Visit Innsbruck
The capital of Tirol is located in the picturesque Inn Valley. The historic town is surrounded with high mountains, which makes it a very popular winter sports spot: it even has hosted a few Winter Olympics. Today visitors can find an abundance of historic monuments and buildings. After all Innsbruck has always been in the middle of turbulent historic years.
Why to go there?
One can find historic architecture, museums and vibrant urban life as well as unspoiled nature and world quality resorts here. Innsbruck is a great holiday destination for those, who are willing to explore, discover and learn as well as have fun outdoors.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
8. Go to Admont Abbey Library
A Benedictine monastery on the Enns River itself is a wonderful architectural ensemble surrounded with the a landscape. The library was built in the 18th century and is the largest monastic library in the world. Ceilings and cupolas are decorated with frescoes, the light is reflected by gold, thus creating an overwhelming effect.
Why to go there?
The entire complex is worth visiting, with this rococo library being one of the most stunning sites.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Marc G
Photo by Friedrich Beren
7. Go Winter Hiking in Eisriesenwelt
At 42 km long, it is the biggest ice cave in the world. Loved by the tourists, the cave provides very exciting sites. The guided tours will provide information about its formation. The trip from Salzburg to the caves is also very scenic.
Why to go there?
One of the most important ice caves in the world and yet easily accessible allows anyone to explore and admire it.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
6. Ski in Arlberg
A lot of popular ski resorts are embedded in this mountain range. It is called a cradle of skiing in the Alps, since Hannes Schneider has opened a ski school, that revolutionized skiing techniques. Moreover a first winter use cable car was built in St. Anton – one of the five Arlberg villages, that the ski resort comprises.
Why to go there?
Both professionals and beginners love Arlberg. The Ski Club Arlberg is one of the oldest ski clubs in the world, whose members include Olympic and world champions. The resort provides wonderful trails, gear and impeccable service.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Arlberg Hospiz
Photo by Ski Arlberg
5. View Schlegeis Lake
The Zillertal valley in Tyrol is a striking place, full of lakes. Schlegeis and other four are artificial lakes that are surrounded with mountains, thus creating this staggering landscape. Climbing and hiking in these amazing surroundings are the most popular activities.
Why to go there?
Schlegeis Alpine Road is 13.3 km long and begins at 1 km above sea level. Many twists and turns run through stunning places and four natural rock tunnels. Visitors are even offered a power plant tour, which introduces the dam.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Mayrhofen
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
4. Have a Romantic Weekend in Hallstatt
Situated on the banks of the Hallstätter lake, the idyllic village has a very long history, that dates back thousands of years. The visitors can learn about its history at the Hallstatt Museum. In winter the village attracts skiers and snowboarders, who come to enjoy the snow and mountains. The salt mine and its tower, from which a gorgeous panoramic views open, offers a fun day trip for the families.
Why to go there?
The picturesque village offers a surprising amount of all year round activities: from winter sports to hiking, biking, boating and swimming in the lake in summer.
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Gerd Pischl
Photo by Michail Vorobyev
Photo by Tanit Wongsrichalalai
Photo by Oleksandr Maistrenko
3. Visit Salzburg
The historic city offers a variety of cultural events and sites as well as an abundance of great historic architecture. The iconic “The Sound of Music” was shot in magnificent Salzburg. Embedded in the Alpine surroundings, Salzburg has always been a tourist attraction. The town is also famous for being a birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart.
Why to go there?
Salzburg has always been a cultural hub. The are various tours around the city, which boasts an abundance of historic monuments and architecture. And of course there are special “The Sound of Music” tours, that take around the film locations.
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Photo by Unknown
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Photo by Kwot
2. Climb Grossglockner
The highest peak in the country is part of the Alpine range and ascents to the height of 3,798 m (12,461 ft). The interesting and unique feature is the pyramid-shaped peak itself, which actually is made of two pinnacles. Surprisingly this is not a very difficult mountain to climb: although you have to have some experience, the route is graded PD+, which translates as not difficult.
Why to go there?
High Alpine Road passes the summit, which is best approached from the Franz-Josefs-Höhe viewpoint and attracts around 1 million visitors each year!
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Grohag
1. Go to Vienna
The largest city and capital of Austria is a must see. Its immense historic heritage and vibrant life attract almost 4 million tourists every year! An abundance of museums, music venues, events and great architecture are among the most popular attractions. Meanwhile restaurants and cafes, that count hundreds of years of history, welcome guests after their exciting day around the city.
Why to go there?
You simply can avoid coming to Vienna, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, the cultural center and inspiring place for anyone anytime.
Photo by Airpano
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Unknown