Europe · 32 Places · Best June-August (summer), December-March (ski season)
Austria captivates visitors with its imperial cities, Alpine landscapes, and rich musical heritage. From Vienna's grand palaces to Salzburg's baroque architecture and the stunning Tyrolean Alps, this Central European gem offers world-class culture, outdoor adventures, and legendary coffeehouse traditions.
Austria captivates visitors with its imperial cities, Alpine landscapes, and rich musical heritage. From Vienna's grand palaces to Salzburg's baroque architecture and the stunning Tyrolean Alps, this Central European gem offers world-class culture, outdoor adventures, and legendary coffeehouse traditions.
Jump straight to the experience you're planning.
The 32 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
The magnificent 1,441-room Baroque palace was the summer residence of the Habsburg emperors. The palace and its stunning gardens are a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Austria's most visited attractions. Explore the Imperial apartments, the world's oldest zoo, and the spectacular Gloriette viewpoint.
The former principal imperial palace of the Habsburg dynasty, now the official residence of the Austrian President. The massive complex houses museums including the Imperial Apartments, Sisi Museum, and the Imperial Silver Collection. Marvel at 700 years of architectural evolution.
Stunning Baroque palace complex housing the world's largest collection of Gustav Klimt paintings, including The Kiss. The Upper and Lower Belvedere are set in magnificent formal gardens with fountains and sculptures. Experience Austrian art from the Middle Ages to the present day.
Vienna's iconic Gothic masterpiece and the mother church of the Archdiocese of Vienna. The cathedral's stunning tiled roof and 137-meter south tower dominate the city skyline. Climb 343 steps for breathtaking views or descend into the catacombs for a historical tour.
One of the world's leading opera houses, renowned for its exceptional acoustics and performances. The neo-Renaissance building hosts over 350 performances annually. Take a guided tour to see the grand staircases, tea salon, and auditorium with its magnificent chandelier.
The largest fully preserved fortress in Central Europe, perched 120 meters above Salzburg's old town. Dating from 1077, it offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and Alps. Explore medieval state rooms, torture chambers, and military exhibits.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
Legendary 5-star hotel opposite the Vienna State Opera, home of the original Sachertorte. Opulent rooms feature antiques and silk fabrics, while the hotel's refined elegance has hosted royalty and celebrities since 1876. Impeccable service and prime location make it Vienna's most iconic hotel.
Check rates on Booking.comStylish 4-star hotel on Vienna's Ringstrasse near Stadtpark. Modern rooms with smart design, excellent breakfast buffet, and friendly service. Perfect location for sightseeing with metro and tram connections at the door.
Check rates on Booking.comModern hostel near Naschmarkt with private rooms and dorms. Clean facilities, comfortable beds, social common areas, and 24-hour reception. Bar and roof terrace make it easy to meet fellow travelers. One of Vienna's best budget options.
Check rates on Booking.comHoused in a beautifully converted 100-year-old bank building, this contemporary luxury hotel combines historic grandeur with modern design. Spacious rooms, exceptional spa, and rooftop bar with city views. Steps from St. Stephen's Cathedral.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Vienna's top restaurant with two Michelin stars, located in Stadtpark. Innovative interpretations of Austrian cuisine using regional ingredients. Wine cellar holds over 30,000 bottles. Reservations essential months in advance.
Vienna institution famous for Tafelspitz (boiled beef), Emperor Franz Joseph's favorite dish. Traditional elegant setting with white tablecloths and attentive service. Multiple cuts of beef served with classic accompaniments. A Viennese culinary experience.
Home of Vienna's most famous schnitzel since 1905. Gigantic portions overhanging plates have become legendary. The original location in the narrow alley serves only pork schnitzel. Always crowded but worth the wait.
Popular würstelstand near Vienna's Naschmarkt serving excellent käsekrainer (cheese-filled sausage). Quick service, fair prices, and quality ingredients. Perfect late-night snack or quick lunch. Local favorite.
Legendary coffeehouse since 1876, once frequented by Freud, Trotsky, and other intellectuals. Palatial interior with vaulted ceilings and marble columns. Famous for apple strudel and Sachertorte. Live piano music daily. Tourist favorite but still magnificent.
Two Michelin-starred restaurant at Palais Coburg. Innovative cuisine showcasing seasonal ingredients with artistic presentation. Incredible wine list from the palace's historic cellars. Elegant dining experience.
Daily spend by tier in USD, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $25-35 (hostel dorm) | $70-120 (3-star hotel or private hostel room) | $250-600 (4-5 star hotels) |
| Food (per day) | $25-30 (supermarkets, cheap eats, one budget restaurant) | $40-60 (breakfast included, lunch at casual restaurant, dinner at mid-range) | $100-200 (fine dining, hotel breakfast, quality restaurants) |
| Transportation | $10-15 (day passes) | $15-20 (day passes, occasional taxi) | $40-80 (taxis, private transfers, car service) |
| Activities | $20-20 (free sights, one paid attraction) | $25-40 (museums, attractions, tours) | $110-200 (VIP tours, opera tickets, exclusive experiences) |
| Daily total | $80-100 | $150-220 | $500+ |
Register with your embassy or consulate upon arrival, especially for extended stays — Austria has consular services for most nationalities in Vienna.
Austria is generally very safe, but pickpockets are active on Vienna U-Bahn lines U1, U2, U4 and around Stephansplatz; keep wallets in front pockets.
Validate your public transport ticket before boarding — plain-clothes inspectors issue on-the-spot fines of EUR 100+ for unvalidated tickets.
Alpine hiking requires proper equipment even in summer: weather changes rapidly above 2,000m — always carry a rain jacket and inform someone of your route.
Tap water throughout Austria is exceptionally clean and drinkable; buying bottled water is unnecessary.
Emergency number is 112 (EU standard); police 133, fire 122, ambulance 144 — save these before your trip.
Schengen area: keep your passport or national ID accessible; border checks can occur on trains into/out of Austria.
Jaywalking is illegal in Austria and fines are enforced — cross only at designated crossings when the green light shows.
If skiing or snowboarding, purchase comprehensive travel insurance covering mountain rescue, which can cost thousands of euros without it.
Avoid driving in alpine villages if you are not confident in mountain driving — narrow roads, steep gradients and unexpected rockfall zones require caution.
Pharmacies (Apotheke) are the go-to for minor ailments; one in each district operates on a 24-hour emergency rotation, shown posted on the door.
Swimming in Alpine lakes is safe but water temperatures are cold even in summer; check for designated swimming zones and posted warnings.
Austria is one of the world's safest countries, consistently ranking among the top 5 in global peace indices. Violent crime is extremely rare, cities are clean and well-lit at night, and the infrastructure is excellent. Standard urban precautions apply in Vienna's tourist areas. Emergency services: police at 133 (Austrian Police / Polizei), medical at 144 (Ambulance / Rettungsdienst) or 112 (EU emergency number).
The best time to visit Austria is June-August (summer), December-March (ski season). Austria has a temperate continental climate with distinct seasons shaped significantly by Alpine geography. Vienna and the eastern lowlands experience warm summers (25-30°C), cold winters (often below
No visa required for stays up to 90 days within any 180-day period. Valid passport required. ETIAS authorization will be required from late 2026. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Austria is the Euro (EUR) (EUR). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Austria: German (official). In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Austria include Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, Belvedere Palace, St. Stephen's Cathedral, and Vienna State Opera. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
Each region has its own character — coastal, alpine, vineyard, capital. Pick a starting point.
Salzburg is one of Austria's most stunning federal states, renowned as the birthplace of Mozart and home to the UNESCO-listed historic city of Salzburg. The state encompasses alpine landscapes, glacial lakes, and some of the best ski resorts in the Alps.
Tyrol is Austria's most spectacular alpine state, home to the historic city of Innsbruck and some of Europe's finest mountain scenery. Bordered by Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and the Austrian states of Salzburg, Vorarlberg, and Carinthia, Tyrol offers world-class skiing in winter and superb hiking in summer.
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria, serving simultaneously as a federal state. One of Europe's most culturally rich capitals, Vienna was the seat of the Habsburg dynasty for centuries and remains a global center for music, art, architecture, and intellectual life. Its historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
