423

Austria: Your Ultimate Holiday Destination Guide

History of the Destination

Austria, located in the heart of Europe, boasts a rich history that spans thousands of years. Once the seat of the powerful Habsburg Empire, Austria has been a centre of culture, art, and music for centuries. From the grandeur of Vienna to the alpine charm of Salzburg, the country is filled with historic landmarks, palaces, and museums that showcase its storied past. Today, Austria is known for its stunning natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and warm hospitality, making it a top holiday destination for travellers from around the world.

Information on the Location

Located in Central Europe, Austria is bordered by Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Slovenia, Italy, and Switzerland. The country is known for its diverse geography, including the majestic Alps in the west, rolling hills and vineyards in the east, and picturesque lakes and valleys throughout. Austria’s cities are renowned for their architectural beauty, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, while its countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and cycling.

Best Time of the Year to Visit

The best time to visit Austria depends on your interests and preferences. Summer (June to August) is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and sightseeing, with pleasant temperatures and long daylight hours. Winter (December to February) is perfect for skiing and snowboarding in the Alps, with world-class ski resorts and festive Christmas markets in cities like Vienna and Salzburg. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer milder weather and fewer crowds, making them great times to explore Austria’s cities and countryside.

Best Sites to Visit

• **Vienna**: Explore the historic streets of Vienna, the capital city of Austria, with its grand palaces, Baroque architecture, and world-class museums, including Schönbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
• **Salzburg**: Discover the charm of Salzburg, the birthplace of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and setting for the Sound of Music, with its medieval Old Town, hilltop fortress, and stunning views of the surrounding Alps.
• **Innsbruck**: Visit Innsbruck, the capital of the Tyrol region, nestled in the heart of the Alps, with its colourful buildings, historic landmarks, and world-class ski resorts, including the Nordkette and Patscherkofel.
• **Hallstatt**: Experience the fairy-tale beauty of Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled on the shores of Lake Hallstatt, with its charming lakeside village, salt mines, and breathtaking mountain scenery.

Best Excursions to Do

• **Day Trip to the Wachau Valley**: Take a scenic drive or boat cruise through the Wachau Valley, a picturesque region along the Danube River, known for its vineyards, medieval castles, and charming villages, including Dürnstein and Melk.
• **Hiking in the Austrian Alps**: Explore the stunning landscapes of the Austrian Alps, with countless hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes.
• **Wine Tasting in Styria**: Discover the wine-growing region of Styria, known for its aromatic white wines, such as Grüner Veltliner and Sauvignon Blanc, with guided wine tours and tastings at local wineries and vineyards.

Best Lakes to Visit

• **Lake Wolfgangsee**: Relax on the shores of Lake Wolfgangsee, a pristine alpine lake located near the village of St. Wolfgang, with its crystal-clear waters, scenic walking trails, and water sports activities, including swimming, boating, and fishing.
• **Lake Achensee**: Enjoy the natural beauty of Lake Achensee, the largest lake in Tyrol, with its turquoise waters, surrounding mountains, and opportunities for sailing, windsurfing, and stand-up paddleboarding.
• **Lake Hallstatt**: Experience the tranquillity of Lake Hallstatt, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its mirror-like waters, towering mountains, and charming lakeside village, offering boat tours, lakeside walks, and photography opportunities.

Best Food & Drink Places to Visit

• **Vienna Coffeehouses**: Indulge in the Viennese coffeehouse culture at historic cafes such as Café Central, Café Sacher, and Demel, where you can enjoy traditional pastries, coffee specialities, and elegant surroundings.
• **Austrian Heurigen**: Sample local wines and regional dishes at Austrian Heurigen, traditional wine taverns found in wine-growing regions such as Vienna, Lower Austria, and Styria, offering homemade wines, hearty snacks, and live music.
• **Salzburg Restaurants**: Dine at traditional Austrian restaurants in Salzburg’s Old Town, with its charming courtyards and cobblestone streets, offering classic dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel, Tafelspitz, and Apfelstrudel.

Hidden Gems to Visit

• **Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave**: Explore the Eisriesenwelt Ice Cave, the largest ice cave in the world, located in the Tennengebirge Mountains near Salzburg, with its stunning ice formations, underground chambers, and guided tours.
• **Graz**: Discover the medieval city of Graz, the capital of Styria, with its picturesque Old Town, hilltop castle, and innovative architecture, including the Kunsthaus Graz and Murinsel.
• **Lake Neusiedl**: Visit Lake Neusiedl, the largest endorheic lake in Central Europe, located on the border between Austria and Hungary, with its unique landscape, birdwatching opportunities, and water sports activities.

Best Budget Hotels

• **Wombat’s City Hostel**: A budget-friendly hostel located in Vienna’s Naschmarkt district, offering modern dormitory rooms, a lively bar, and free walking tours, as well as a central location within walking distance of major attractions.
• **Hotel Goldener Adler**: A historic hotel situated in Innsbruck’s Old Town, offering affordable rooms, a traditional Austrian restaurant, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, providing a comfortable base for exploring the city.

Best Mid-Range Hotels

• **Hotel Amadeus**: A mid-range hotel located in the heart of Salzburg’s Old Town, offering stylish rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a gourmet restaurant, as well as a central location within walking distance of Mozart’s Birthplace and Mirabell Palace.
• **Hotel Das Sonnreich**: A spa hotel situated in the Styrian countryside, offering comfortable rooms, thermal baths, and wellness treatments, as well as a restaurant serving regional cuisine and panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.

Best Boutique Hotels

• **Hotel Altstadt Vienna**: A boutique hotel housed in a historic townhouse in Vienna’s Spittelberg district, offering individually decorated rooms, an art gallery, and a trendy bar, as well as a central location near the MuseumsQuartier and Vienna State Opera.
• **Hotel Schloss Leopoldskron**: A boutique hotel set in a historic palace overlooking Lake Leopoldskron in Salzburg, offering luxurious rooms, landscaped gardens, and a gourmet restaurant, as well as a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle.

Best Luxury Hotels

• **Hotel Sacher Vienna**: A luxury hotel located opposite the Vienna State Opera, offering opulent rooms, a spa, and multiple gourmet restaurants, including the famous Café Sacher, as well as a central location near the Hofburg Palace and Albertina Museum.
• **Schloss Fuschl, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa**: A five-star resort set in a historic castle on Lake Fuschl near Salzburg, offering luxurious suites, a spa, and gourmet dining, as well as stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

Best Transport Options

Getting around Austria is easy and convenient, thanks to its well-developed transportation network:

• **Train**: Austria has an extensive network of trains operated by ÖBB, providing fast and efficient connections between major cities and towns, as well as scenic routes through the countryside and alpine regions.
• **Bus**: Local and regional buses are available in cities and rural areas, offering convenient transportation to attractions, hiking trails, and ski resorts, with frequent schedules and affordable fares.

Currency Information

The official currency of Austria is the Euro (EUR), which is widely accepted throughout the country. Major credit cards are also accepted at hotels, restaurants, and shops, although it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and street vendors.

Finding the Best Flights on TravelZine Flight Comparison Site

Planning your trip to Austria? Let TravelZine Flight Comparison Site help you find the best deals on flights from your location to Vienna International Airport. With its user-friendly search engine and extensive database of airlines and fares, TravelZine ensures that you get the most competitive prices and convenient travel options for your journey.

Final Thoughts

Austria, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, offers an unforgettable holiday experience for travellers seeking culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re exploring historic palaces, skiing in the Alps, or savouring Austrian cuisine, the country promises endless opportunities for discovery and enjoyment. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well-prepared to plan your ultimate holiday in Austria and create memories that will last a lifetime.