Austria is a country of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. From imperial cities to charming alpine towns and picturesque riverside villages, it offers an unforgettable journey for every traveller. Exploring Austria on a guided tour will enable you to see its highlights effortlessly, while learning fascinating stories about its architecture, music, and traditions along the way.
Top sights to see in Austria
Vienna
Once the capital of the Habsburg Empire, Vienna is known for its imperial history, vibrant cultural life, and long association with classical music. Its city centre, with grand palaces, historic churches, and traditional cafés, offers many highlights to explore.
Top attractions in Vienna:
- Schönbrunn Palace: Built in the 18th century as the Habsburgs’ summer residence, Schönbrunn is one of Austria’s most important historic sites. The palace features richly decorated rooms, while the extensive gardens include fountains, formal terraces, and landscaped grounds that showcase baroque design.
- St. Stephen’s Cathedral: Located in the heart of Vienna’s historic city centre, this Gothic cathedral has been a central landmark for centuries. Notable features include its patterned tiled roof, tall south tower, and interior chapels dating back to the Middle Ages.
- Hofburg Palace: Formerly the main residence of the Habsburg rulers, the Hofburg is a large complex that developed over several centuries. It now contains museums, the Austrian National Library, and the Spanish Riding School, home of the Lipizzaner horses.
- Belvedere Palace: Originally built as a baroque residence, the Belvedere now serves as an art museum. Its collection includes significant Austrian works, most famously paintings by Gustav Klimt, as well as landscaped gardens connecting the Upper and Lower palaces.
- Vienna State Opera: Opened in the 19th century, the Vienna State Opera remains a major centre for opera and ballet. Performances take place regularly throughout the year, and the building itself is an important example of historic theatre architecture.
- Naschmark: Vienna’s best-known market, offering a mix of food stalls, cafés, and small shops that reflect both local produce and international influences.
Read our other blog post on the 'Top attractions in Vienna' for even more insight into Austria's beautiful capital.
Salzburg
Nestled at the foot of the Alps, Salzburg is known for its baroque architecture, rich musical heritage, and as the birthplace of Mozart. The city’s historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with narrow streets, elegant squares, and well-preserved buildings reflecting its centuries-long history.
Top attractions in Salzburg
- Hohensalzburg Fortress: Perched on a hill above the city, this is one of Europe’s largest medieval castles. Built in the 11th century, it has served as a defensive stronghold and residence for archbishops. Visitors can explore the fortress walls, historic rooms, and museum exhibits, while enjoying panoramic views of Salzburg and the surrounding Alps.
- Mozart’s Birthplace & Residence: Salzburg celebrates its most famous son with two museums. Mozart’s Birthplace on Getreidegasse shows his early life and family history, while his later residence displays instruments, original letters, and personal belongings, offering insight into his life and work.
- Mirabell Palace and Gardens: Known for its elegant baroque design, Mirabell Palace and its gardens are a central part of Salzburg’s cultural life. The gardens feature symmetrical flowerbeds, fountains, and statues, and the site is famous for appearing in several scenes of The Sound of Music.
- Getreidegasse:This historic shopping street is lined with narrow buildings, wrought-iron shop signs, and traditional shops. It combines modern boutiques with centuries-old establishments, making it a highlight of Salzburg’s city centre.
- Salzach River Promenade: Running along the river that cuts through the city, the promenade offers scenic views of Salzburg’s skyline, the fortress above, and the surrounding Alps. It’s popular for leisurely walks and photography, especially at sunset.
- Sound of Music Tour: You can also take a day trip from Salzburg to see the original shooting locations of The Sound of Music in the city and the nearby Lake District. Highlights include the famous wedding church in Mondsee and other scenic sites featured in the film.
Innsbruck
Innsbruck,, the capital of Tyrol, is a picturesque alpine city where historic architecture meets mountain scenery. Surrounded by the Nordkette mountain range, the city blends traditional Austrian charm with imperial history. Its medieval streets, grand buildings, and scenic setting make it a highlight of the Austrian Alps.
Top attractions in Innsbruck
- Golden Roof (Goldenes Dachl): Located in the historic centre, this iconic landmark features a balcony adorned with 2,657 gilded copper tiles. Built in the 15th century for Emperor Maximilian I, it served as a royal viewing platform for festivals and events.
- Nordkette Cable Car: Connecting the city centre to the Nordkette mountain range, this cable car provides access to viewpoints overlooking Innsbruck, the Inn Valley, and surrounding peaks.
- Innsbruck Imperial Palace (Hofburg) : A key example of baroque and rococo architecture, the Hofburg was the former residence of Tyrolean rulers. Today, it houses exhibitions and historic rooms, offering insight into the city’s imperial history.
- Ambras Castle: This Renaissance castle sits on a hill overlooking Innsbruck and contains extensive art collections, including armour, paintings, and portraits. Its gardens and courtyards are also notable examples of Renaissance landscape design.
- Bergisel Ski Jump: Famous for its role in international ski jumping competitions, the Bergisel site features a modern observation platform designed by architect Zaha Hadid, offering panoramic views of the city and mountains.
Discover other highlights of Austria on a Danube River Cruise
Taking a river cruise along the Danube offers a glimpse of Austria’s picturesque villages, each rich in history, wine culture, and scenic beauty.
Top places to visit in Austria on a Danube river cruise:
- Melk: Famous for Melk Abbey, a stunning baroque monastery overlooking the Danube, with richly decorated interiors and historic gardens.
- Emmersdorf: A small riverside village with traditional Austrian houses and a peaceful, scenic setting.
- Dürnstein: Known for its blue church tower and the ruins of Dürnstein Castle, where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned, set amid charming cobbled streets.
- Linz: Austria’s third-largest city, combining historic architecture with contemporary culture and a lively riverside promenade.
Ready to discover the best of Austria?
Austria perfectly combines history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for a guided journey. Whether wandering through imperial Vienna, exploring the musical streets of Salzburg, admiring Innsbruck’s alpine vistas, or cruising along the Danube’s charming villages, a guided tour ensures you see the very best the country has to offer.
