Welcome to Austria, a country that is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Austria has something for everyone. In this guide, we will explore some of the best places to visit in Austria, where to eat and drink, how to get around on a budget, and everything else you need to know to make your trip unforgettable.
Introduction to Austria
Austria is located in Central Europe and shares borders with Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Slovenia, Hungary, and Slovakia. It is a landlocked country with a total area of 83,871 square kilometers. Vienna is the capital city of Austria and also one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. Austrians speak German as their official language, but there are many other languages spoken throughout the country due to its diverse population.
Best Places to Visit in Austria
There are so many amazing places to visit in Austria that it can be difficult to choose just a few. Here are some of our top picks:
Vienna: As mentioned earlier, Vienna is the capital city of Austria and is known for its beautiful architecture, museums, galleries, and concert halls. Some must-see attractions include St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Hofburg Palace, Schönbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum.
Salzburg: Located in western Austria, Salzburg is famous for being the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for “The Sound of Music.” Visitors can explore the historic center, take a boat ride on the Salzach River, hike up to Hohensalzburg Fortress, and enjoy traditional Austrian cuisine.
Innsbruck: Situated in the heart of the Alps, Innsbruck is a winter wonderland that offers plenty of opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and ice skating. During the summer months, visitors can hike through the surrounding mountains, go whitewater rafting, or simply admire the stunning views.
Hallstatt: This picturesque town is located in the Salzkammergut region of Austria and is known for its charming architecture, crystal clear lake, and salt mines. Visitors can take a boat ride across the lake, explore the salt mine, or hike up to the nearby Dachstein glacier.
Where to Eat and Drink in Austria
One thing that Austria does exceptionally well is food and drink. From traditional Wiener Schnitzel to delicious apfelstrudel, there is something for every taste bud. Here are some of our favorite places to grab a bite to eat and a drink in Austria:
Cafe Sacher: Known for its decadent chocolate cake, Cafe Sacher is an institution in Vienna and a must-visit for any foodie.
Figlmuller: If you’re in the mood for some authentic Austrian cuisine, head to Figlmuller for some of the best Wiener Schnitzel in town.
Bierwurstl: For those who love sausages, Bierwurstl is the place to go. They offer a wide variety of different types of sausage, all made fresh daily.
Meinl am Graben: This cafe serves up some of the best coffee in Vienna along with delicious pastries and sandwiches.
Getting Around Austria on a Budget
Austria may not be the cheapest country to travel in, but there are ways to save money on transportation costs. Here are some tips for getting around Austria on a budget:
Use public transportation: Austria has an excellent public transportation system, including buses, trams, and trains. Purchase a Vienna Card or a Salzburg Card for discounted rates on public transportation within each city.
Walk or bike: Many cities in Austria are very walkable, especially if you’re staying in the historic center. Consider renting a bike to explore the city at a slower pace.
Take regional trains: Regional trains are often less expensive than intercity trains and can still get you from point A to point B quickly and efficiently.
Conclusion
Austria is truly a magical destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or cuisine, you won’t be disappointed by what Austria has to offer. We hope this guide helps you plan the perfect vacation!