20 Must-Visit Destinations in Austria: Easy Travel, Stunning Mountain Views, Lakes, and World-Class Architecture

Traveloka TH
10 Feb 2025 - 12 min read
20 Must-Visit Destinations in Austria

Explore Austria – A Timeless Classic with Legendary Romance! If you're a true Europe lover, get ready to fall head over heels! Austria, the birthplace of classical music, is packed with stunning European architecture that will have you snapping photos until your camera storage is full! Still can't picture it? No worries! We've handpicked the most breathtaking destinations in Austria just for you. If your heart says yes, don't wait! Check out flights to Austria on the Traveloka app now. Great prices, amazing deals, and top-tier after-sales service – fly comfortably, explore freely, and enjoy your trip to the fullest!

20 Must-Visit Destinations in Austria – Add These to Your Travel List!

1. Schönbrunn Palace

Schönbrunn Palace

One of the top must-visit attractions in Austria, Schönbrunn Palace is an iconic landmark in Vienna that every visitor should see. Built in the 13th century, this stunning yellow-hued palace was designed as a summer residence, inspired by the grandeur of France’s Versailles Palace. The palace consists of 1,441 rooms and is also recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

📍 Location: Google Maps

2. St. Stephen’s Cathedral

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

A historic landmark in Vienna, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is a must-visit attraction in Austria. Originally built in 1147 in Gothic style, the cathedral has endured damage from wars and was later reconstructed in its original location. One of its most striking features is its intricately patterned roof, which comprises over 230,000 tiles. The towering spires of the cathedral create an awe-inspiring view, making it an unmissable stop in Vienna.

📍 Location: Google Maps

3. Naschmarkt

Naschmarkt

Dating back to the 16th century, Naschmarkt is one of Austria’s oldest and most famous markets. Originally a dairy market, it has evolved into Vienna’s largest food and produce hub, offering a variety of fresh goods, including fruits, vegetables, and delicacies from around the world. On Saturdays, visitors can also explore a bustling flea market featuring vintage and second-hand treasures from local vendors.

📍 Location: Google Maps

4. Schloss Mirabell

Schloss Mirabell

Leaving Vienna behind, head to Salzburg to visit Mirabell Palace, one of Austria’s most picturesque attractions. The city itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and serves as an important cultural and economic center.

This Italian-French-style palace is famous for its beautifully designed gardens, which were featured in the iconic "Do-Re-Mi" scene from The Sound of Music. It's a must-visit destination for fans of the classic film and architecture lovers alike.

📍 Location: Google Maps

5. Hallstatt

Hallstatt

A trip to Austria wouldn’t be complete without visiting Hallstatt, one of the most picturesque lakeside towns in the world. This charming town is famous for its well-preserved historic buildings and breathtaking mountain scenery surrounding the lake. With its serene atmosphere and romantic views, it’s the perfect place for a leisurely stroll. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos—this place is a real showstopper!

📍 Location: Google Maps

6. Schafberbahn

 Schafberbahn

For a scenic and relaxing experience, head to St. Wolfgang and take a ride on the charming vintage cogwheel train up Schafberg Mountain. This small resort town, surrounded by stunning mountains and a beautiful lake, offers great opportunities for sightseeing and boat trips. However, the highlight is definitely the panoramic viewpoint at the mountain's peak, where you’ll witness some of the most breathtaking views in Austria.

📍 Location: Google Maps

7. Maria Alm

Maria Alm

If you're looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by nature, Maria Alm is the place to be. Famous for its ski slopes in winter, this small town is equally enchanting in other seasons. Nestled in the middle of towering mountain ranges, it offers a tranquil, slow-paced lifestyle with fresh air and stunning landscapes. Perfect for those who love a laid-back and relaxing trip.

📍 Location: Google Maps

8. Sölden

Sölden

Situated at 1,368 meters above sea level, Sölden is a cozy Alpine village that transforms into a skiing paradise in winter. With its breathtaking views of the Alps and surrounding glaciers, it attracts skiers from around the world. Outside of the ski season, it offers a peaceful and romantic retreat, perfect for nature lovers looking for a serene mountain escape.

📍 Location: Google Maps

9. Imperial Palace Hofburg

Imperial Palace Hofburg

This historic palace in Vienna dates back to 1275 and is one of the oldest palaces in the world. Once serving as the winter residence of the Austrian royal family, it has now been transformed into three major museums. Inside, you'll find valuable artifacts and exhibitions showcasing Austria’s rich royal history. The palace itself is both beautiful on the outside and culturally significant on the inside—a must-visit!

📍 Location: Google Maps

10. Kärtner Street

Kärtner Street

Shopaholics, this one’s for you! Kärtner Street is a historic shopping avenue in Vienna, filled with high-end fashion boutiques, crystal and glassware stores, restaurants, and charming cafés. As you stroll along, you’ll also get to admire beautiful architecture and street art, making it a delightful mix of shopping and sightseeing.

📍 Location: Google Maps

11. Natural History Museum

Natural History Museum

If you love museums, don’t miss the Natural History Museum in Vienna. The grand exterior is just a preview of the treasures inside, which include ancient fossils, taxidermy animals, and fascinating exhibits on biology and earth sciences. All of this is housed in a stunning historic building, making the visit both educational and visually impressive.

📍 Location: Google Maps

12. Eisriesenwelt – The World’s Largest Ice Cave

The Eisriesenwelt

Did you know that Austria is home to the world's largest ice cave? Stretching over 42 kilometers, Eisriesenwelt is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Hochkogel Mountain near Werfen. Inside, you’ll find stunning ice formations that resemble stalactites and stalagmites, but made entirely of ice. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you shouldn’t miss!

📍 Location: Google Maps

13. Innsbruck

Innsbruck

A paradise for slow-travel lovers, Innsbruck is a picturesque city surrounded by the majestic Alps. It offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban charm, with historic European-style buildings, a flowing river, and 360-degree mountain views. Whether you want to explore the lively city center or take in the stunning landscapes, Innsbruck is a must-visit destination.

📍 Location: Google Maps

14. Zell am See

Zell am See

This charming town by the lake is a dream destination for nature lovers. Zell am See is known for its picturesque lakeside scenery and beautiful alpine views. Take a cable car up to Schmittenhöhe Mountain for a panoramic 360-degree view of the surroundings. Whether you're exploring the quaint town center or admiring the tranquil lake, Zell am See offers a perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

📍 Location: Google Maps

15. Alpbach

Alpbach

Welcome to the most beautiful village in Austria! Alpbach, located in the Tyrol region, is also known as the most stunning floral village in Europe. Situated at an altitude of 1,000 meters, it is surrounded by lush green meadows and vibrant flowers. The fresh mountain air and countless outdoor activities, like hiking and cycling, make this village a hidden gem worth visiting.

📍 Location: Google Maps

16. Graz

Graz

Graz is the second-largest city in Austria, located in the southeastern part of the country, bordering Slovenia. It is one of Austria’s top travel destinations, attracting visitors with its historic old town and stunning architecture. A must-visit landmark is The Uhrturn, a 28-meter-tall clock tower perched on a hill, offering a breathtaking view of the city. Another highlight is Murinsel, a glass dome situated in the middle of the Mur River, perfect for a relaxing and scenic experience.

📍 Location: Google Maps

17. Grossglockner High Alpine Road – The Most Beautiful Road in Austria

Grossglockner High Alpine Road

At an altitude of 3,798 meters, Grossglockner High Alpine Road is one of the most scenic roads in Austria, drawing visitors from all over the world. Over one million tourists travel along this route every year. The road, named after the Grossglockner Mountain, stretches over 50 kilometers with 36 winding curves, leading into the heart of Hohe Tauern National Park, Austria’s largest and most stunning natural reserve.

📍 Location: Google Maps

18. Hohe Tauern National Park

Hohe Tauern National Park

Hohe Tauern National Park is Austria’s largest and oldest national park. It boasts breathtaking landscapes, including White Lake, Krimml Falls, and the Pasterze Glacier. The park is home to diverse wildlife, such as chamois, marmots, and golden eagles. Take a deep breath of fresh alpine air and immerse yourself in this pristine natural wonder.

📍 Location: Google Maps

19. Heritage Hotel Hallstatt

Heritage Hotel Hallstatt

A must-visit landmark in Austria, the Heritage Hotel Hallstatt is a luxurious 4-star hotel located in the heart of Hallstatt. Step outside your room and be greeted by the serene beauty of Lake Hallstatt, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. The peaceful atmosphere and fairy-tale scenery make it an ideal getaway.

📍 Location: Google Maps

20. The Alps

Alps

We wrap up this list with The Alps, one of Austria’s most iconic landmarks. The Alps are the largest mountain range in Europe, spanning multiple countries, including Austria, Italy, Slovenia, Switzerland, Monaco, Liechtenstein, Germany, and France. Interestingly, 60% of the Alps’ total area is in Austria. Renowned for their majestic beauty, these mountains are a paradise for ski lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

📍 Location: Google Maps

Travel Measures for Tourists Visiting Austria

Tourists can stay in Austria for up to 90 days. To schedule a visa appointment, applicants must book through the VFS Global website: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/tha/en/aut/. Appointment confirmations will be sent via email. The required documents for a visa application include:

A passport valid for at least 3 months with at least 2 blank pages
A copy of the passport with at least 3 months' validity
A copy of Schengen visa stamps issued within the past 5 years
Two recent color photographs with a white background (taken within the last 6 months, size 35 x 45 mm)
Travel itinerary, hotel booking, flight tickets with clear schedules, and other relevant documents
Proof of travel health and accident insurance

The Austrian tourist visa allows a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

For COVID-19 measures, there is no requirement to present proof of COVID-19 vaccination.

Visa fees range from approximately €40 to €150.

Useful Information for Traveling to Austria

After learning about top attractions in Austria, it's also essential to know some key facts about the country. Here are some useful details:

Basic Information About Austria

Austria, officially known as the Republic of Austria, is located in Central Europe. It shares borders with:

North: Czech Republic and Germany
East: Hungary and Slovakia
West: Switzerland and Liechtenstein
South: Italy and Slovenia
Total area: 83,879 square kilometers
Administrative divisions: 9 states
Population: Approximately 9 million people
Capital city: Vienna

Traveling to Austria

The flight time from Thailand to Austria is approximately 11 hours and 15 minutes. Airlines offering direct flights from Suvarnabhumi Airport to Austria include:

Traveling Within Austria

Austria has a well-connected transportation system, including trains, subways, buses, taxis, ferries, and bicycles. Travelers can choose the most convenient option for their journey. For cycling enthusiasts, Austria offers bike rental services like Nextbike and Movelo, available throughout the cities, allowing you to enjoy scenic rides at your own pace.

Language in Austria

The official language of Austria is Austrian German. Additionally, 88.6% of the population speaks Bavarian, a dialect of High German.

Currency in Austria

Austria uses the Euro (€) as its official currency.

Time Zone in Austria

Austria is 6 hours behind Thailand and follows the Central European Summer Time (CEST, GMT +2). Travelers may need some time to adjust to the time difference.

Seasons and Weather in Austria

Austria experiences four distinct seasons:

Spring (March - May): Average temperature 10 - 15°C. Pleasant weather with occasional rain, especially in April when it starts to warm up.
Summer (June - August): Temperature ranges from 20 - 30°C. This is the best season for travel as the weather is bright and sunny, though mountain areas may experience occasional rain.
Autumn (September - November): Average temperature 19 - 21°C. A great time to visit for stunning autumn foliage.
Winter (December - February): Temperature ranges from -5 to 3°C. Snowfall is common throughout the country. If you’re visiting during winter, don’t forget to pack warm clothes and hand warmers!

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