Schloss Hohenwerfen
Salzburg Region
Remote alpine fortress offering authentic falconry shows and panoramic views of the Hohe Tauern.
Logistics: Accessible by a scenic drive from Salzburg; parking available at the castle grounds.
Updated: 2025-10
Highlights
Austria — Top 10 Highlights
Explore the essentials of Austria with precise pins and a quick-scan overview—clean, fast, no popups.
Did you know?
<p>Austria invites you to discover a land where alpine grandeur meets imperial charm, making every moment feel like a page from a travel story. Wander the winding streets of Hallstatt, taste the crisp mountain air, and let the crystal‑clear lake mirror your wonder. Explore the Wachau Valley’s terraced vineyards, sip local wine, and stroll along the Danube’s gentle flow. For a touch of adventure, hike the Grossglockner, Austria’s highest peak, and marvel at its towering glaciers. In winter, glide across the Dachstein Glacier or the Kitzsteinhorn Glacier, feeling the chill of pure snow. Return to the heart of Vienna and step into the opulent halls of Schönbrunn Palace, where history whispers through every corridor. These are the things to do in Austria that promise unforgettable memories and a relaxed, yet spirited vibe. Dive deeper into the highlights of Austria and let your curiosity lead the way.</p>
Why go — quick legend
- Grossglockner — Experience the highest peak in Austria, offering panorami…
- Hallstatt — Stroll along the lakeside, admire historic salt mining ar…
- Wachau Valley — Sip world class wines, explore medieval castles, and enjo…
- Dachstein Glacier — Witness year round snow, hike glacier trails, and learn a…
- Kitzsteinhorn Glacier — Ride the cableway to a glacier summit, view alpine panora…
- Schönbrunn Palace — Explore opulent gardens, grand halls, and the famed Glori…
- Hofburg Palace — Witness imperial chambers, the Imperial Apartments, and t…
- St. Stephen's Cathedral — Marvel at soaring Gothic spires, intricate stained glass,…
- Vienna State Opera — Enjoy world class operas in a historic hall, experiencing…
- Melk Abbey — Stroll through the abbey’s library, cloister, and baroque…
Tip: Open individual spots in Google Maps from the table below.
Legend
Why go — quick legend
- Grossglockner — Experience the highest peak in Austria, offering panorami…
- Hallstatt — Stroll along the lakeside, admire historic salt mining ar…
- Wachau Valley — Sip world class wines, explore medieval castles, and enjo…
- Dachstein Glacier — Witness year round snow, hike glacier trails, and learn a…
- Kitzsteinhorn Glacier — Ride the cableway to a glacier summit, view alpine panora…
- Schönbrunn Palace — Explore opulent gardens, grand halls, and the famed Glori…
- Hofburg Palace — Witness imperial chambers, the Imperial Apartments, and t…
- St. Stephen's Cathedral — Marvel at soaring Gothic spires, intricate stained glass,…
- Vienna State Opera — Enjoy world class operas in a historic hall, experiencing…
- Melk Abbey — Stroll through the abbey’s library, cloister, and baroque…
Explore by province
Click a province to open its region page; click a city to open its highlights page.
Austria — Top 10 Highlights (Overview)
Swipe to see more columns →
| # / Name | Why go | Significance | Since | Category |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Heiligenblut am Großglockner · Carinthia | Experience the highest peak in Austria, offering panoramic alpine vistas and a chance to witness the Pasterze glacier. | Symbolizes the grandeur of the Eastern Alps and serves as a key reference point for mountaineering history. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Hallstatt · Upper Austria | Stroll along the lakeside, admire historic salt mining architecture, and savor local cuisine in a UNESCO listed setting. | Represents early salt trade heritage and exemplifies alpine settlement patterns. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Rossatz-Arnsdorf · Lower Austria | Sip world class wines, explore medieval castles, and enjoy Danube river cruises through picturesque villages. | Highlights centuries of viticulture, cultural preservation, and the valley’s role in European trade routes. | — (natural) | Outdoor |
Hallstatt · Upper Austria | Witness year round snow, hike glacier trails, and learn about climate change impacts on alpine ice. | Demonstrates glacial dynamics at the intersection of three Austrian states and informs regional water resources. | — (natural) | Natural Wonder |
Heiligenblut am Großglockner · Carinthia | Ride the cableway to a glacier summit, view alpine panoramas, and experience snow sports in summer. | Illustrates the accessibility of high altitude glaciers for tourism and research in the Central Alps. | — (natural) | Natural Wonder |
Vienna | Explore opulent gardens, grand halls, and the famed Gloriette, offering panoramic city views and a glimpse into imperial leisure. | Symbol of Habsburg grandeur, its architecture and art reflect Baroque splendor and the empire’s cultural zenith. | 1703 | Cultural Heritage |
Vienna | Witness imperial chambers, the Imperial Apartments, and the Austrian National Library, immersing in centuries of political power. | Central seat of Habsburg rule, its layers of architecture chronicle Austria’s evolution from medieval kingdom to modern republic. | 13th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Vienna | Marvel at soaring Gothic spires, intricate stained glass, and the cathedral’s vibrant bell tower, a landmark of Viennese skyline. | Mother church of Vienna, it embodies the city’s spiritual heritage and architectural continuity through turbulent eras. | 12th c. | Cultural Heritage |
Vienna | Enjoy world class operas in a historic hall, experiencing the city’s enduring musical legacy firsthand. | Its Renaissance Revival design and storied performances cement Vienna’s reputation as the epicenter of classical music. | 1861 | Cultural Heritage |
Melk · Lower Austria | Stroll through the abbey’s library, cloister, and baroque fa ade, while overlooking the Danube’s scenic valley. | A Benedictine stronghold, it houses royal tombs and exemplifies monastic influence on art, learning, and regional identity. | 1089 | Cultural Heritage |
“Since” dates reflect earliest public access (opening/consecration/founding) or UNESCO/natural markers. Natural sites show “— (natural)”.
Hidden gems · Insider picks
Three lesser-known spots worth a detour—remote, scenic, or just special
Gmunden & Schloss Neuhofen
Upper Austria
Scenic lakeside town with a baroque palace, ideal for leisurely walks and boating on Traunsee.
Logistics: Train to Gmunden (approx. 1.5h from Linz); the castle is a short walk from the town center.
Updated: 2025-10
Krems an der Donau
Wienerwald
Cultural hub known for its historic town center, wine taverns, and the Krems City Museum showcasing regional art.
Logistics: Direct train from Vienna (≈1h); the old town is pedestrian-friendly.
Updated: 2025-10
When to go
AlpsApr–Jun: Perfect for hiking in the Alps as temperatures rise, trails open, and tourist numbers stay moderate, keeping prices reasonable.
ViennaJul–Aug: Best for city exploration in Vienna when summer festivals peak, crowds are lively, and the warm evenings are ideal for coffee house strolls, though accommodation costs rise.
SalzburgSep–Oct: Ideal for cultural tours in Salzburg with pleasant autumn weather, fewer tourists, and lower hotel rates, making it great for music lovers.
AlpsNov–Mar: Optimal for skiing in the Austrian Alps as snow is abundant, slopes are less crowded after the holiday rush, and equipment rentals are cheaper.
Lake DistrictJun–Jul: Great for water activities at Lake Wörthersee with warm temperatures, relaxed crowds, and affordable day passes, perfect for families.
Weather varies by region—always check local forecasts.
Family picks
Three kid-friendly wins—mix of attractions, activities, or stays
Schönbrunn Palace
$$Schönbrunn Palace, Vienna
Attraction3–12Updated: 2025-10-08
Historic palace with gardens, interactive tours, and a zoo for kids.
Logistics: Book tickets online, arrive early to avoid crowds. Strollers allowed. Free parking nearby.
Vienna Prater
$Prater, Vienna
ActivityAll agesUpdated: 2025-10-08
Classic amusement park with rides, a carousel, and a large park for picnics.
Logistics: Open daily 10am–10pm. Entry free; rides cost extra. Strollers welcome.
Haus der Musik
$Innere Stadt, Vienna
Attraction5–12Updated: 2025-10-08
Interactive music museum with hands‑on exhibits and a sound‑lab for kids.
Logistics: Open daily 10am–6pm. Tickets online. Strollers allowed. Free parking nearby.
Safety: practical snapshot
Overall call
Austria offers scenic beauty and friendly locals, but stay alert to petty theft, traffic rules, mountain hazards, and seasonal weather changes.
- Pickpocketing in crowded tourist spots
- Road accidents during winter driving
- Avalanches on high alpine trails
- Tourist scams in popular cities
- Sudden weather shifts in mountains
How to travel it safely
- Keep valuables in a money belt or hidden pouch.
- Follow local speed limits, especially on mountain roads.
- Check avalanche forecasts before hiking above 1, 500 meters.
- Verify tour operators' credentials to avoid scams.
- Carry a small first aid kit and a fully charged phone.
- Dress in layers; temperatures can drop quickly.
- Use public transport passes; avoid unlicensed taxis.
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen during summer hikes.
Emergency: In emergencies dial 112 for police, fire, or medical help.
Information is current as of 2025; verify local updates.
Top links
Accurate, high-signal sources for Austria.
Published: Oct 9, 2025•Updated: Oct 9, 2025